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Announced this week, the Sony Alpha A7 V is a brand new 33 megapixel, 4K/120p video, 30fps burst shooting, full-frame mirrorless camera designed to be a great all-rounder for both stills and video. Read our Sony A7 V review so far complete with sample images to find out what it's capable of...
The brand new Sony A7 V and the four-year-old A7 IV look almost exactly the same, so which full-frame sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7 V versus the Sony A7 IV.
Sony have just launched their new flagship mirrorless camera, the A1 II, a 50 megapixel, 8K video, 30fps burst shooting model that's designed to be the ultimate all-rounder. Is it a worthy replacement for the original Alpha 1 and can it challenge the likes of the Nikon Z8 and Canon EOS R5 Mark II? Find out by reading our Sony A1 II review so far, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The D-Lux 8 is that rarest of things - a brand new premium compact camera - in a market dominated by mirrorless and smartphones. Read our in-depth Leica DLux 8 review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos, to find out if it can successfully bridge the gap between those two extremes...
The Sony ZV-E10 II is a mirrorless camera that's directly aimed at vloggers, with 4K/60p recording, a vari-angle screen, fast auto-focusing, three-capsule direction microphone, and a wealth of vlogger-friendly shooting modes. Is this a good camera for aspiring videographers and social media creators? Read our Sony ZV-E10 II review, complete with full-size photos and videos, to find out...
The Sony Xperia 1 VI is a new flagship smartphone for 2024 that is clearly aimed at keen photographers and videographers. Standout features include a true 85-170mm optical zoom, 2x telephoto macro mode, 4K/120p video recording, and 30fps burst shooting. Read our in-depth Sony Xperia 1 VI review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos, to find out if this new device can justify its £1299 / €1400 price-tag...
“The power of one frame” - that's the ethos of the new Sony A9 III, the first ever full-frame mirrorless camera to feature a global shutter. Why does that actually matter? This technological leap forwards allows the A9III to shoot at up to 1/80000th shutter speed with no distortion, provides flash-sync at any shutter speed, and offers a 120fps blackout-free burst mode at full 24 megapixel resolution. Read our early review of the revolutionary Sony A9 III to find out more, complete with sample photos.
The ZV-E1 is Sony's first vlogging camera to feature a 35mm full-frame sensor, offering 4K/120p recording, 12 megapixel stills, and AI-based autofocusing and stabilisation modes. Is the the ultimate camera for for videos and vlogs? Find out now in our in-depth Sony ZV-E1 review...
The Sony ZV-1 II is a second-generation compact camera designed for vlogging, with a wide-angle zoom lens, vari-angle screen, fast auto-focusing, upgraded three-capsule direction microphone, and special vlogger-friendly shooting modes. Read our in-depth Sony ZV-1 II review with full-size sample photos and videos now...
At just £490 / $480, the EOS R100 is the cheapest mirrorless camera in the Canon range, offering 24 megapixels and 4K video recording in a tiny body. Can you really buy a decent camera for such a small amount of money? Find out now by reading our in-depth review of the Canon EOS R100 APS-C mirrorless camera, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The Sony A7C II is the second version of a 35mm full-frame camera that's amazingly almost the same size and weight as a smaller APS-C sensor camera. Find out if they've perfected the recipe by reading our Sony A7C II review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The brand new Sony A7C II and the more expensive A7C R models look very similar to each other, so which of these mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7CII versus the A7CR.
The brand new Sony A7C II and the previous generation A7C look very similar to each other, so which of these mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7CII versus the A7C.
The brand new Sony A7C II and the Sony A7 IV have very similar specifications, so which full-frame sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7CII versus the A7IV.
The brand new Sony A7C II and the Sony A6700 look very similar to each other, so which of these mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7C II versus the A6700.
The brand new Sony A7C R and the Sony A7R V have very similar specifications, so which full-frame sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7CR versus the A7RV.
The A6700 is the new premium model in Sony's extensive range of APS-C mirrorless cameras, but can it beat both its main rivals and its cheaper siblings? Find out now by reading our in-depth Sony A6700 review, complete with full-size sample images and videos.
We're bringing you an in-depth Sony A6700 vs Sony A7C head-to-head comparison to help you choose between these two mirrorless cameras.
We're bringing you an in-depth Sony A6700 vs Sony A7 IV head-to-head comparison to help you choose between these two mirrorless cameras.
The brand new Sony A6700 and the older Sony A6600 are very similar in appearance, so which flagship APS-C sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A6700 versus the A6600.
The brand new Sony A6700 and the older Sony A6400 are very similar in appearance, so which APS-C sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A6700 versus the A6400.
We're bringing you an in-depth Sony A6700 vs Canon EOS R7 head-to-head comparison to help you choose between these two APS-C sensor mirrorless cameras.
The Sony A7R V full-frame camera is a hybrid powerhouse that in some ways outperforms even the flagship Alpha 1 model. Can this exciting camera really meet the needs of all kinds of photographers? Read our in-depth Sony A7R V review to find out...
The Sony ZV-1 II is a compact camera that is specifcially designed to appeal to keen vloggers and videographers. It currently sits above the entry-level ZV-1F model in the Sony range. Which of these cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Sony ZV-1 II versus the Sony ZV-1F.
The Sony ZV-1 II is a compact camera with lots of features designed to appeal to keen vloggers and videographers. It sits above the original ZV-1 model in the Sony range. Which of these cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Sony ZV-1 II versus the Sony ZV-1.
The Canon EOS R50 is a super-compact mirrorless camera with an APS-C crop sensor that can shoot at 15fps and record 4K/30p video. Can the R50 compete with the likes of the Fujifilm X-S10, Nikon Z30 and Sony ZV-E10? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon R50 review with full-size sample photos and videos.
The Sony ZV-1F is an affordable compact camera aimed at vloggers, with 4K/30p video, a vari-angle screen, a wide-angle lens, and a wealth of vlogger-friendly shooting modes. Should you upgrade from your smartphone to the ZV1F? Read our in-depth Sony ZV-1F review to find out...
The new EOS R6 Mark II is Canon's fastest ever full-frame mirrorless camera, offering blistering 40fps burst shooting, 24.2 megapixel stills, 6K/60p video recording and 8-stops of IBIS.
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II body is priced at £2,779.99 / €3,149.99 / $2,499.00 in the UK and Europe.
The brand new Sony A7R V that was unveiled today and the Canon EOS R5 from 2020 have similar specifications and prices, so which of these 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Canon R5 versus the Sony A7RV.
The X-H2 is the highest resolution APS-C camera that Fujifilm have ever released, offering a 40 megapixel BSI sensor that can record 8K/30p video and shoot burst sequences at 20fps. Find out exactly what this new flagship camera is capable of and who it's aimed at by reading our complete Fuji XH2 review complete with full-size JPEG, Raw and video samples.
The Sony Xperia 1 IV is a new flagship smartphone for 2022 that is clearly aimed at keen photographers and videographers. Standout features include a true 85-125mm optical zoom, 4K/120p video recording, 20fps burst shooting, and advanced Photo Pro, Video Pro and Cinema Pro apps. Read our in-depth Sony Xperia 1 IV review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos, to find out if this new device can justify its £1299 / $1599 price-tag...
The X-H2S is the fastest, most capable APS-C sensor camera that Fujifilm have ever released, but it's also by far the most expensive. Find out exactly what this new flagship camera is capable of and who it's aimed at by reading our complete Fuji XH2S review complete with full-size JPEG, Raw and video samples.
The Nikon Z9 is a professional level, full-frame mirrorless camera for photographers and videographers that features a 45 megapixel stacked BSI sensor, 8K/30p and 4K/120p video recording, 30fps burst shooting and a dual-grip design. Read our in-depth Nikon Z9 review complete with full-size sample photos and videos to find out just what this flagship camera is capable of...
The Canon EOS R3 is a professional full-frame mirrorless camera for sports and action photographers that features a 24 megapixel stacked BSI sensor, 6K/60p Raw and 4K/120p video recording, 30fps burst shooting, eye-control autofocusing and a dual-grip design. Read our in-depth Canon R3 review complete with full-size sample photos and videos to find out just what the all-action R3 is capable of...
Not content with introducing their flagship Xperia I III smartphone earlier this year, Sony have taken things to a whole other level with the launch of the brand new Xperia PRO-I. Sporting a price-tag of £1,599 / $1,799, is this the ultimate smartphone for experienced photographers and videographers? Find out now by reading our Sony Xperia PRO-I review...
The new Sony Alpha A7 IV is a new 33 megapixel, 4K/60p video, 10fps burst shooting, cutting-edge auto-focusing hybrid full-frame mirrorless model that pulls no punches in its bid to be the only camera that you need. Find out why we think this is one of the best all-round cameras of 2021 by reading our in-depth Sony A7 IV review...
The Sony A7 IV is the successor to the popular A7 III full-frame mirrorless camera, with both models offering lots of features to appeal to hybrid stills and video shooters. How does the new version compare to the old? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7 IV versus the Sony A7 III.
Sony have just announced the launch of the Alpha A7IV, a 33 megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera that is the successor to 2017's popular A7 III model.
In addition to the brand new 33mp BSI CMOS sensor, the A7 IV has the latest BIONZ XR processor, 4K/60p video recording at 4:2:2 color depth in 10-bit, new Breathing Compensation mode to combat focus breathing, ISO 50-204800, 759 on-sensor phase-detect points, 10fps burst shooting, 5.5 stops of IBIS, a 3.69m-dot EVF and 1.03-million-dot vari-angle LCD screen, UHS-II SD and CF Express Type A card support, 5GHz Wi-Fi and Live Streaming.
The Sony A7IV is priced at £2400 / €2800 / $2500 body only in the UK, Europe and the USA respectively and will be available to buy in November 2021.
Take a look at how it compares to its predecessor in our Sony A7 IV vs A7 III - Head-to-head Comparison.
The new Fuji GFX 50S II is the most affordable medium-format ever released - it's so cheap that it competes with high-end 35mm full-frame cameras like the Sony Alpha 7R IV, Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z7 II. But surely there's a catch - is it just too affordable for its own good? Find out now by reading our in-depth Fujifilm GFX 50S II review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos...
The Sony ZV-E10 is a mirrorless camera that sits above last years Sony ZV-1 compact camera, with both offering lots of features to appeal to keen vloggers and videographers. Which of these cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Sony ZV-E10 versus the Sony ZV-1.
The Sony ZV-E10 is a new APS-C sensor mirrorless camera that's clearly targeted at videographers, with a vari-angle screen, fast auto-focusing, three-capsule direction microphone, and a wealth of vlogger-friendly shooting modes. Is this the ultimate mirrorless camera for aspiring YouTube creators? Read our in-depth Sony ZV-E10 review to find out...
The Sony Xperia 1 III is a new flagship smartphone for 2021 that has a lot to offer keen photographers and videographers. This includes 20fps burst shooting, real-time AF tracking and real time eye AF for humans and animals, 16mm, 24mm, 70mm and 105mm focal lengths, and advanced Photo Pro and Cinema Pro apps. Read our in-depth Sony Xperia 1 III review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos, to find out if this new smartphone can justify its £1199 / $1299 price-tag...
Wondering what the differences are between the new Fujifilm GFX 50S II and the 3-year-old GFX 50S medium format mirrorless cameras? Then check out our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Fujifilm GFX50S Mark II versus the GFX50S.
After almost three years since it was first unveiled, the Zeiss ZX1 full-frame mirrorless camera is finally available to buy. With a 37.4 megapixel sensor, 4K video, 35mm f/2 prime lens, 4.3-inch touchscreen, built-in Adobe Lightroom and 512Gb SSD internal memory, is the unconventional ZX1 still worth a look in 2021? Find out now by reading our in-depth review of the Zeiss ZX1 mirrorless camera, complete with full-size sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
The Sigma fp L is a 61 megapixel, 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera that shoots 4K/30p video. It's aimed at both demanding film-makers and stills photographers alike, but can this 2021 update of the original fp model really satisfy the needs of both types of user? Find out out now by reading our in-depth Sigma fp L review, complete with full-size sample JPEG and Raw images and videos.
Sony have just unveiled a new large aperture ultra-wide-angle prime lens, the FE 14mm F1.8 GM, for their full-frame mirrorless Alpha cameras.
This lens promises to offer excellent image quality with superb corner to corner resolution, features two XD Linear Motors for fast, quiet and precise AF tracking, and has a very compact, lightweight design.
The Sony Alpha 1 camera, or Sony A1 for short, is the best camera that Sony have ever released, and currently the best all-round camera on the market. It's also one of the most expensive, so read our in-depth Sony A1 review complete with full-size sample JPEG and Raw photos and movies to find out if it's truly the One for you...
The new 100-megapixel medium-format Fuji GFX 100S is smaller, lighter and more versatile than the flagship GFX 100, and crucially, significantly cheaper too. So much so that it steps on the toes of high-end 35mm full-frame cameras like the Sony Alpha 1, Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z7 II. Does the GFX 100S really prove that medium-format is "More than full-frame", and is it really better than the GFX 100? Find out now by reading our in-depth review, complete with a huge gallery of full-size sample images and videos...
Fujifilm sell a massive range of cameras, covering everything from mirrorless to medium-format and Instax film to compacts. Here is our definitive guide to the very best Fujifilm cameras that you can buy today.
Sony sell a huge range of premium cameras, covering everything from compacts to APS-C and full-frame mirrorless models. Here is our definitive guide to the very best Sony cameras that you can buy today.
Canon sell every type of camera that you can possibly imagine, from point-and-shoot compacts to mirrorless and DSLRs. Here is our definitive guide to the best Canon cameras that you can buy today.
The brand new Sony Alpha 1 that was announced yesterday and last years Canon EOS R5 have similar key specifications, so which of these flagship 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Sony A1 versus the Canon R5.
The new flagship Sony Alpha 1 full-frame interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera can shoot 50 megapixel images at 30fps.
It has a brand new 50.1-megapixel stacked Exmor RS CMOS image sensor and an upgraded BIONZ XR imaging processing engine with eight times more processing power.
It features 15-stops of dynamic range, 120 times p/sec AF/AE calculations (double the speed of the Alpha 9 II), and completely blackout free shooting.
The Sony A1 has a 9.44 million dot OLED viewfinder with a refresh rate of 240fps, 0.9x magnification and an eye-point of 25mm, 5.5-stops of 5-axis IBIS, and anti-flicker shooting with both mechanical and electronic shutter.
The camera features 759 phase detection points in a high-density focal plane phase-detection AF system covering approximately 92% of the image area and provides Real-time Eye AF for birds for the very first time.
It offers 8K/30p 10-bit 4:2:0 XAVC HS video recording with 8.6K oversampling, in addition to 4K 120p 10-bit 4:2:2 and FullHD at 240fps movie shooting capabilities, and can output 16-bit Raw video over HDMI.
There is a 30 minute time limit in the 8K/30p and 4K/60p video modes.
Flash sync is improved, with the Alpha A1 supporting up to 1/200 sec with the electronic shutter or 1/400 sec with the mechanical shutter.
The improved Pixel Shift Multi Shooting combines 16 different images into one 199 megapixel photo.
The Alpha 1 has two memory card slots that both support UHS-I and UHS-II SDXC/SDHC cards as well as new CFexpress Type A cards.
The Sony Alpha 1 will be available in Europe in March 2021 priced at £6,500 / $6,500 / 7,300Euros.
We've spent some time using the brand new Fujifilm X-S10 mirrorless camera before today's official launch.
Billed as the ultimate all-rounder that offers something a little bit different, this APS-C sensor camera marks quite a departure from the usual Fujifilm blueprint.
The 'S' in the product name doesn't officially stand for anything in particular, but could represent small, secure, simplicity, stabilised, or all four.
So ahead of our full review, check out our detailed first impressions of using the Fujifilm XS10 now...
The brand new Sony A7C and the slightly older Sony A6600 are very similar in appearance, so which full-frame mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7C versus the A6600.
It's been 5 long years since its popular predecessor was launched, but now the new Sony A7S III full-frame mirrorless camera is finally with us! Is this the most capable hybrid 4K video camera available today? Find out now by reading our in-depth Sony Alpha 7S III review, complete with full-size photos and videos for you to download and evaluate...
The brand new Sony A7C and the older Sony A7 III are very similar in price, so which full-frame mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A7C versus the A7 III.
Sony are attempting to turn the camera world on its head by creating a new 35mm full-frame camera that's the same size and weight as one with a smaller APS-C sensor. Have they succeeded with the new Sony A7C, and is it a great camera in its own right? Find out now by reading our Sony A7C review complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The cinema industry is changing as it moves from Super35mm to full-frame.
Sony's one-mount strategy is focusd on E-mount, with 57 lenses in total, 37 of which are full-frame.
It's been 5 years since the launch of the A7S II, with lots of requests during the last 2 years for its successor.
Now Sony have launched the A7S III mirrorless camera, which they claim delivers “The best 4K Sony ever made”.
The whole concept of the product has changed to achieve this. With freelancers now working on their own more, the Sony A7S III is aimed at this new workflow for hybrid shooters.
The Sony ZV-1 is a new compact camera that's been built from the ground up for vlogging, with a vari-angle screen, fast auto-focusing, three-capsule direction microphone, and a wealth of vlogger-friendly shooting modes. Is this the ultimate camera for aspiring YouTube creators? Read our in-depth Sony ZV-1 review to find out...
ProGrade Digital's new range of CFexpress Type-B memory cards provide read speeds up-to 1,700MB/s and burst write speeds up-to 1,500MB/s.
The Sony ZV-1 is a completely new compact camera designed from the ground-up for vloggers. With the majority of 6-12 year old children now aspiring to be a vlogger, Sony feel that the time has come to launch a unique product that specifically caters to the needs of YouTube creators.
Sony want you to use the ZV1 instead of a smartphone - apparently 73% of vloggers currently use a phone. Sony claim that you can get better professional quality video with smooth bokeh by simply hitting the dedicated Bokeh button on top of the camera. The ZV1 changes the physical aperture to do this, making it as wide as possible, and uses ND filter too, rather than simulating the effect.
Sony also point out that the selfie cameras on mobiles are usually the worst quality,another advantage for the ZV1, while the large windshield on top of the Z-V1 and the mic input on the side combine to provide much better audio.
Finally, the Sony ZV1 has built-in wi-fi/bluetooth and apps for sharing to mobile phone, including a proxy option for quicker lower-quality sharing.
Available in the first week of June, it will be competitively priced at £700 in the UK, almost half the price of the RX100 VII, making it a great B-camera for the A7-series.
The GP-VPT2BT Bluetooth wireless remote commander will be available in the UK for half-price at launch. It features a C1 button which can turn also turn on the ZV1's Bokeh function.
Sony have just unveiled the first image sensors in the world to be equipped with AI processing functionality. The two 1/2.3-type, 12.3 effective megapixel sensors are aimed at the retail and industrial equipment industries, but could be a sign of things to come for the wider photography market.
ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 is now available,adding user interface updates, some new features, and plenty of performance enhancements along with new cameras and lens support.
A 30-day free trial of ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 is available for download now. If you previously ran the trial of ON1 Photo RAW 2020, the trial period is reset in version 2020.1, so you can also try this newest update free for another 30 days.
The Sony Xperia 1 II is the World’s first smartphone with up to 20fps continuous shooting capability. It has a newly developed triple camera array with focal lengths of 16mm, 24mm and 70mm and features Real-time Eye AF for both humans and animals.
The new OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a serious camera for serious photographers, designed to showcase the very best that Olympus has to offer. In the increasingly competitive high-end camera market, does it have what it takes to stand out from the crowd and attract new users as well as satisfy existing ones? Read our Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review to find out...
The Sony A6100 is a new entry-level mirrorless camera that features the fastest auto-focusing system in the world. With a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor, 4K movie recording, a tilting OLED screen, electronic viewfinder and built-in flash, the Sony A6100 also offers 11fps burst shooting, bluetooth, wi-fi and NFC connectivity, and USB charging. Read our Sony A6100 review now to find out if it's the perfect camera for photography beginners...
The A6600 is the new all-singing, all-dancing flagship camera in Sony's extensive range of APS-C mirrorless cameras, but does it offer enough to out-gun both its main rivals and its cheaper siblings? Find out now by reading our in-depth Sony A6600 review, complete with full-size sample images and videos.
The latest version of Fujifilm's much-loved rangefinder camera series has just arrived in the form of the X-Pro3, complete with hybrid optical / electronic viewfinder and a radical new hidden LCD screen. Yes, we did say hidden! Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-Pro3 review to find out what this very traditional, yet thoroughly modern camera has to offer you.
If you're a professional sports photographer or photojournalist, there have traditionally only been two camera series worth considering, with the latest examples being the Canon EOS 1D X II and the Nikon D5. Two years ago Sony released the Alpha A9, which was specifically designed to take on those two cameras, and now they're back, just in time for the Olympics, with the improved A9 II. Read our review to find out exactly what the new Sony Alpha A9 Mark II offers...
Capture One 20 is a new version of the venerable photo editing software that is now easier than ever for new users, more useful, and more efficient in everyday work.
DxO PhotoLab 3 offers a completely redesigned HSL colour adjustment feature, optimized Repair Tool, keyword management and a brand-new Local Adjustments Masks Manager.
For a limited time, DxO PhotoLab 3 ESSENTIAL Edition is priced at £86.99 instead of £112, and DxO PhotoLab 3 ELITE Edition is priced at £129.99 instead of £169.
Sony's venerable RX100 compact camera series has now reached its seventh iteration with the launch of the RX100 VII. What could Sony have possibly added to make this already excellent camera even better? Find out now by reading our in-depth Sony RX100 VII review, complete with a huge gallery of full-size sample images and videos.
The new Sony A9 II full-frame mirrorless camera offers significantly enhanced connectivity and file delivery, continuous shooting at up to 10fps with mechanical shutter, evolved AF performance with newly optimised algorithms, a re-designed build to enhance durability and operability, and more.
The Sony A9 II will ship in the UK, US and Europe in October 2019, priced at approximately £4800 / $4500 / €5400 respectively.
Traditionally, you'd have to make a tough choice between resolution and speed when it comes to high-end cameras, but with the new flagship A7R IV mirrorless model, Sony are attempting to offer the best of both worlds. Can it really succeed as a camera that suits all kinds of photographers? Read our in-depth Sony A7R IV review to find out...
The new Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is a premium compact camera that's clearly been re-designed to take on the all-conquering Sony RX100 series of cameras whilst offering some class-leading features of its own, including a longer zoom lens, touchscreen interface and bigger grip. Discover what's new in our Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II review, complete with full-size sample images and videos...
The Sony A7R IV mirrorless camera has the world’s first 35mm full-frame 61.0 megapixel back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor with the latest-generation BIONZ X image processor.
The Sony A7R IV will be available in August priced at £3600 / €4000 / $3500.
The new VG-C4EM Vertical Grip will ship in September 2019 for approximately £400 / €450 / $400.
The new ECM-B1M Shotgun Microphone will ship in September 2019 for approximately £340 / €380 / $350.
The new XLR-K3M XLR Adapter Kit will ship in October 2019 for approximately £580 / €650 / $600
The brand new RX0 II is an updated version of Sony's unique action / b-roll / vlogging camera, now additionally offering a tilting LCD screen, internal 4K video recording and in-body electronic stabilisation. Read our Sony RX0 II review now to find out just what this intriguing camera is capable of...
DxO has announced the release of the Nik Collection 2 by DxO, a major upgrade to the famous plugin suite for Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, and Elements. DxO is expanding the plugin suite with over 40 new creative presets and high-resolution monitor support for Windows. In addition, the Nik Collection 2 now comes with DxO PhotoLab 2.3 ESSENTIAL Edition, DxO’s recently released advanced RAW photo editing software.
The Canon EOS 250D / Rebel SL3 is a new entry-level DSLR aimed at people buying their first interchangeable lens camera. It improves on the previous EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 model principally by implementing 4K video recording, a better live view mode, more sophisticated auto-focusing, and longer battery life. Is this the best interchangeable lens camera for beginners? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon EOS 250D review...
The Panasonic S1 is the more sensibly specced and sensibly priced sibling of the flagship S1R full-frame mirrorless camera. It lowers the number of megapixels whilst upping the video capabilities, promising a more well-rounded camera at a more affordable price-point. Does the new Lumix S1 have what it takes to compete with the likes of the Sony A7 III, Nikon Z6 and Canon EOS R? Read our detailed Panasonic S1 review to find out...
Pisofttech is launching the Pilot Era, a professional 8K 360° VR camera, on Indiegogo. It offers an innovative all-in-one solution including a touch screen, Android-based operating system and powerful 8K video in-camera stitching. Unlike other traditional pro-level 360 cameras, it does not require any post-processing in computer. It shoots 8K panoramic videos and photos and automatically stitches them just inside the camera.
The Sony A6400 is a new mirrorless camera with an APS-C size sensor and a cutting-edge auto-focusing system. With 24.2 megapixels, 4K movie recording, a touchscreen 180-degree LCD touchscreen, 11fps burst shooting, electronic viewfinder, built-in flash, and Wi-fi / Bluetooth / NFC connectivity, is this the best APS-C camera on the market? Read our Sony Alpha A6400 review to find out...
Panasonic have enjoyed a lot of success with their Micro Four Thirds camera range, and now they've turned their attention to the full-frame market with the release of the exciting new Lumix S1R. This is a 47 megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera with 187 megapixel high resolution mode, class leading electronic viewfinder, 6-stop IBIS, and a robust weatherproof body. Read our in-depth Panasonic S1R review now to find out more about this impressive camera...
The Atomos Shinobi is a high brightness 1000nit 5-inch HDMI monitor that’s perfect for vloggers, creatives and photographers. Shipping today, the Shinobi costs $399US / €399 / £339 plus local taxes.
Delkin's 2933X XQD memory cards are now shipping and available for purchase. Delkin Premium XQD memory cards are capable of capturing cinema-quality footage, including DCI 4K & Full HD video at 180 fps, as well as 200 RAW photos in burst mode.
Panasonic has announced two mirrorless camera models with a 35mm full-frame image sensor - the Panasonic S1R and the Panasonic S1. The 47 megapixel S1R and the 24 megapixel S1 both feature 4K 60p/50p video recording, a new Venus image processing engine, Dual I.S. image stabilisation, a double slot for XQD memory cards and SD memory cards, and a triaxial tilt LCD screen.
In a very interesting move, Panasonic are using the Leica L-Mount standard for the S1R and S1 cameras. Panasonic will release three Lumix S Series compatible lenses at the same time as the launch of the S1R and S1 cameras - the 50mm F1.4 prime lens, 24-105mm F4 standard zoom lens, and 70-200mm F4 telephoto zoom lens - and seven more by the end of 2020. Panasonic have also partnered with Leica and Sigma to develop more L-mount lenses.
Both the S1R and S1 cameras will have HLG Photo Mode and High Resolution Mode. The former mode allows images to be shot with a wider dynamic range, whilst the latter takes eight consecutive images that are automatically shot while shifting the sensor and synthesized into a single image.
Sony has announced the release of a new ‘Imaging Edge’ mobile application plus several updates to the ‘Remote’, ‘Viewer’ and ‘Edit’ desktop applications, that will bring new features to all Sony imaging customers ranging from casual hobbyists to working professionals.
The ProGrade Digital Dual-Slot SD Card Workflow Reader provides a transfer speed of up to 10Gb/s (1.25GB/s) concurrently for two memory cards.
The Dual-Slot SD Workflow Reader (PG08) retails for $79.99.
Sony has introduced three new professional ATOM X SSDmini products designed for use in ATOMOS recorders.
The New Metz Mecablitz M360 is a compact, fully-featured TTL flash that offers intuitive operation for mirrorless and DSLR camera users.
Capture One 12 is the latest version of Phase One's RAW conversion, image editing, and asset management software.
The perpetual license for Capture One Pro 12 is available for $299, with upgrade pricing from previous versions starting at $149. Capture One Pro Sony and Capture One Pro Fujifilm are available for $219.
For those that prefer subscription models, Capture One Pro 12 is available for plans as low as $15 per month, and Capture One Pro Sony and Capture One Pro Fujifilm subscription plans start at $14 a month.
ON1 Photo RAW 2019, an all-new photo editing experience and a major upgrade to ON1 Photo RAW, is now available. Notable new features include a new non-destructive workflow for layers, auto-alignment of layers, focus stacking, a new portrait tab, a new text tool, new digital asset management updates and more.
ON1 Photo RAW 2019 is available today for $99.99. Previous owners of any ON1 product can upgrade for $79.99. A 30-day free trial of ON1 Photo RAW 2019 is also available for download from the ON1 website.
The Zeiss Batis 40mm f/2 is a brand new prime lens designed specifically for Sony Alpha mirrorless cameras that offers a unique focal length. Read our Zeiss Batis 40mm f/2 review to find out if it's worth the £1129 / $1299 asking price...
The Sony Cyber-shot HX99 is a new premium travel-zoom camera with a 30x, 24-720mm zoom lens. The HX99 also features an 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, pop-up electronic viewfinder, lens barrel control ring, flip-up LCD touchscreen, built-in wi-fi, NFC and Bluetooth, 4K video with stereo sound, Eye AF mode, 10fps continuous shooting, ISO range of 80-6400 and Raw support. Read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99 review to find out if it's the best travel-zoom camera on the market...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX800 is the world's smallest camera with a 30x, 24-720mm zoom lens. The WX800 also has Fast Intelligent AF and responsive Eye AF to help capture even distant subjects beautifully, while built-in Wi-Fi/NFC makes sharing easy. There's an 18.2 million pixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, 180-degree tilting touch-panel LCD screen, BIONZ X processor, 10fps continuous shooting and 4K (3840 x 2160) video recording. The WX800 measures 101.6 mm x 58.1 mm x 35.5 mm and weighs 233g with the battery and memory card fitted.
The Sony WX800 will be available in black or white.
Update: Sony have also unveiled the Cyber-shot DSC-WX700 model in China, which appears to be identical to the WX800, except that it doesn't have a touchscreen LCD.
The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II is the successor to one of our favourite compact cameras of all time, the ahead-of-the-game LX100, which was launched way back in 2014. Read our in-depth Panasonic LX100 II review with sample JPEG, RAW and video files to find out if we rate it just as highly as the original...
ProGrade Digital has introduced professional grade microSDXC memory cards, plus two additional USB 3.1, Gen. 2 dual-slot workflow readers, at Photokina 2018.
We've just spent two days shooting with the new Fujifilm X-T3 mirrorless camera at the official Fujifilm UK press event in the heart of rural Hampshire and at the Goodwood Revival motor festival. Ahead of our full review, check out our detailed first impressions of using the Fujifilm X-T3 mirrorless camera now...
The Sony Xperia XZ3 smartphone features a 19MP Motion Eye main camera and 13MP front camera providing 4K HDR Movie recording, Full HD 960FPS Super slow motion and advanced 3D Creator now with facial expressions. The new Smart launch with AI instantly prepares your camera when you hold your phone up in landscape mode, ensuring you never miss a moment.
The Sony Xperia XZ3 will be available in selected markets globally from end of September 2018 and will be among the first devices to ship with the latest Android 9 Pie.
Delkin Devices announced today the newest addition to their ever-growing line of memory-based products: Premium 2933X XQD memory cards for both Sony and Nikon cameras. Utilizing a 2nd generation PCI Express interface and delivering blazing-fast write speeds up to 400MB/s (up to 440MB/s read speeds), Delkin Premium XQD memory cards are capable of capturing flawless cinema-quality footage, including DCI 4K & Full HD video at 180 fps, as well as RAW photos in burst mode.
Delkin Premium XQD memory cards come in the following capacities and will start shipping mid/late October: 64GB, 120GB and 240GB.
The new Sony RX100 VI is the most technologically capable compact camera on the market, but is it the right travel-zoom camera for you? Find out by reading our detailed Sony RX100 VI review...
Sony have announced the upcoming release of the IMX586 stacked CMOS image sensor for smartphone cameras, which features 48 effective megapixels and an ultra-compact pixel size of 0.8 μm.
The new sensor uses the Quad Bayer color filter array, where adjacent 2x2 pixels come in the same color, making high-sensitivity shooting possible. During low light shooting, the signals from the four adjacent pixels are added, raising the sensitivity to a level equivalent to that of 1.6 μm pixels (12 megapixels), resulting in bright, low noise images.
Aurora HDR 2018 is now up to 2x and 4x faster on MacOS and Windows computers and is now compatible with the brand-new Loupedeck+ photo editing console.
The Parrot ANAFI is a flying 4K HDR camera with a zoom lens that accompanies you every-time. ANAFI can be pre-ordered now and will be in store from July 1st, 2018 for 699€ / $699 / £649.
Sony have announced the development of a 5.76 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder. The catchily named ECX339A OLED Microdisplay features UXGA (1600 x 1200 resolution), the highest in class for a 0.5-type, the world's smallest pixel pitch of 6.3μm, and a high frame rate of up to 240 fps.
Sony is expanding its External Solid-State Drive (SSD) range with a brand new top of the range SL-E series. This new model is a stylish, high-capacity external SSD that is small enough to put in your pocket but powerful enough for high-speed and safe data transfer.
The Zeiss Loxia 25mm F2.4 is a premium wide-angle prime lens for Sony's 35mm full-frame E-mount camera system. The manual-focus Loxia 25mm lens offers a fast f/2.4 maximum aperture, 10 rounded aperture blades, superlative build quality, and an aperture ring that can be de-clicked for video use. Read our in-depth Zeiss Loxia 25mm F2.4 review now...
Sony is expanding its Large Format Sensor category with the new XDCAM handheld camcorder FS II. The Sony FS5 II features an all-new look with a refined picture tone to capture natural highlights, subtle, alluring and well rendered facial tones and a softer tonal look emphasising the portrayal of a person. Complete with 4K HDR and 120fps performance and RAW capabilities, the new Super 35mm camcorder combines outstanding image quality with an ergonomic modular frame. In addition to S-Log 2/3, the FS5 II supports Sony’s Instant HDR Workflow to produce HDR content for quick post-production without the need of grading.
The FS5 II is planned to be available in June, with expected pricing as follows:
The new A7 III is the most affordable Sony full-frame camera in the Alpha range, but as our in-depth review reveals, it's far from being the most basic. Find out why we think this is the best camera of 2018 (so far at least) by reading our in-depth Sony A7 III review...
The Sony HVL-F60RM Flash offers high-power flash output, reliable continuous performance and advanced control features with integrated radio control options. It will be available in April 2018 priced at approximately £620 / €700 / $600.
Sony introduces dual-camera shooting solution for the RX0 camera with the launch of a new release cable. The new VMC-MM2 will ship in April 2018 priced at approximately £50 / €55 / $50.
ProGrade Digital today announced a new line of products designed to uniquely fill the needs of today’s high-end DLSRs, camcorders and digital cinema cameras. Memory cards will be offered in a variety of formats and industry-leading capacities. The company will also design and market a selection of card readers, starting with a CFast & SD Dual Slot Workflow Reader that boasts a USB 3.1, Gen. 2 transfer protocol.
The ZEISS Loxia 25mm f/2.4 is a compact wide-angle manual focus lens that will appeal to both landscape and architectural photographers.
The ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 will be available from March 2018 for £1,189.99 (incl.VAT). Filmmakers can also look forward to a special offer on a set comprising all five ZEISS Loxia focal lengths ranging from 21 to 85 millimeters.
The Sony RX0 is a premium action camera with a 1-inch sensor, which is about 4x the size of those in other action cameras like the GoPro, promising superior image quality, ably assisted by the 24mm f/4 Zeiss lens. Read our Sony RX0 review now to find out just what this innovative new camera is capable of...
The Sony A7R III is a 42 megapixel camera that can shoot at 10fps with continuous auto-focusing. Yes, you read that right - 42 megapixels at 10fps. Find out why we think this is one of the best cameras available today by reading our full Sony A7R III review, complete with full-size sample images and videos...
broncolor has announced the release of a wireless transmitter for optimum flash triggering for Fujifilm cameras. The RFS 2.2 F Wireless Transmitter operates as a remote control or radio flash trigger for one or more broncolor power packs or monolights equipped with a RFS 2 interface. The broncolor RFS 2.2 F for Fujifilm cameras is available for RRP £96.
DxO PhotoLab 1.1 offers an easier-to-use design, the ability to interface with Adobe Lightroom CC Classic, and an improved brush tool.
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is a super-zoom camera with a 24-600mm lens and 20 megapixel sensor that can shoot still images at an amazing 24 frames per second, complete with full-time auto-focusing. Is this the only camera that you'll ever really need? Find out by reading our detailed Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV review...
YI Techonology have released a major firmware update for the YI M1 mirrorless camera that offers significantly improved performance. Key improvements include 300% faster auto-focus speed, better AF speed and accuracy, new RAW+JPEG file format, full exposure and focus control before and during 4K shooting, and enhanced Touch Screen Control experience.
The YI M1 Mirrorless Digital Camera is available with the 12-40mm Zoom Lens starting at $349.99.
Digital Film Tools have released Film Stocks v3.0, which adds 8 Black & White Films, Polaroid presets, 12 Faded - Color presets, 5 Faded - Black & White presets, and 16 Motion Picture Film presets. 89 color-grading presets from Academy Award nominated movies are also provided. The Film Stocks photo plug-in is available now for $50 USD, while the Film Stocks video/film plug-in is available for $95.00 USD.
360° camera pioneer Detu has launched the F4 Plus an 8K Virtual Reality Panoramic Camera. Designed for professional photographers and VR content creators, the Detu F4 Plus features four multi-layered 200° fisheye lenses, and records 360° videos at a resolution of 7,680x3,840 pixels and a frame rate of 30 frames per second. Engineered to enable users to livestream with ease, the camera can connect to a computer via an Ethernet cable, or wireless live streaming is possible over 2.4G and 5G dual frequency Wi-Fi. The removable 4800mAh lithium-ion battery supports up to 120 minutes of continuous shooting. The F4 Plus carries an MSRP of $2599 and will be available on Amazon.
Billed as the World's smallest studio light, the Profoto A1 is actually a hotshoe-mountable 76Ws flash with a round head, high-speed synchronisation and a recycling time of 1.2sec. Thanks to a smart magnetic mount built into the head, light shaping tools and modifiers can be clicked on and off quickly and easily. The flash also has a zoom function that allows you to make fine adjustments to the spread of light by simply twisting the zoom ring on the head, and for accuracy it has a built-in modelling light. The user interface is simple and intuitive with a large high-contrast display at its centre. The A1 has its own Li-ion high capacity battery built-in which lasts up to four times longer than AA batteries with no performance fade. The flash is available in Canon and Nikon versions (with a Sony variant coming in 2018), and offers AirTTL and Air Remote compatibility for off-camera use. The Profoto A1 can be preordered for $995.
Cascable, an iOS-based remote control app that works with a number of Wi-Fi capable cameras, has just been updated to version 3.0. This update includes support for nearly 50 new camera models from Fujifilm and Panasonic on top of the Canon, Nikon, Sony and Olympus models already available. In addition, Cascable now contains a set of geotagging tools which enable photographs to be geotagged without a GPS-enabled camera, alongside numerous optimisations and workflow improvements. The app is available from the iOS App Store. Cascable's Pro features come with a free trial when subscribing from $2 per month, or can be unlocked with a one-time $29.99 purchase.
The new EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 is Canon's smallest and lightest DSLR camera. Aimed mainly at beginners, the EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 is also an attractive proposition for experienced photographers looking for a more compact body. Find out if it can satisfy both by reading our Canon EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 review...
The Sony A9 is a lightning-fast full-frame compact system camera that is clearly taking aim at the Nikon and Canon DSLR competition. Is this the best professional action camera on the market? Read our Sony A9 review to find out...
Phase One today released Capture One Pro 10.1. New features in this version include an enhanced Stules workflow, tokenised watermarking, a new master reset function, vectorscope orientation for colour wheels, and a number of Apple Script enhancements. This update adds support for raw files generated by the Pentax K-70 and KP, the Panasonic GH5, GX8, TZ85, TZ100 and FZ2000, the Nikon D5600 and D3400, the Fuji X-Pro2, X-T20 . X-A10 and XQ2 cameras, as well as 21 new lenses. Capture One Pro 10.1 for Mac and Windows is available now and free to current Capture One Pro 10 customers.
YI Technology today announced the new YI 360 VR consumer-grade Live VR camera, which enables 360-degree 5.7K VR capture, 4K instant in-device stitching, and 2.5K live-streaming. “Virtual reality is exciting. It promises a whole new range of opportunities for creating and sharing truly immersive experiences,” said Sean Da, CEO of YI Technology. “But it can also be really intimidating. For VR to truly take off it has to be easy and fun. At YI Technology, we challenge ourselves to bring the most innovative technologies together in a way that is simple, enjoyable and useful for anyone, from kids to professionals. VR is no exception. Too many of today’s solutions are exciting in theory but really complicated in practice. That is why we worked so hard to perfect YI 360 VR. Using the best components, rigorous industrial design and many years of testing, we eliminated the cables, confusing interfaces and bulky components and added 5.7K fidelity, 4K in-device stitching and 2.5K live-streaming, all in a handy, affordable package so everyone can share exciting moments live, from any angle.” Scheduled to be released in June 2017, the YI 360 VR is available for early ordering now and will be on display at this week’s NAB 2017 show in Las Vegas.
The Zeiss Batis 135mm f/2.8 is a brand new short telephoto prime lens designed specifically for Sony full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras. Read our Zeiss Batis 135mm f/2.8 review to find out if it's worth the £1749 / $1999 asking price...
The brand new Fujifilm X-T20 is a mid-range compact system camera that inherits most of the key features of the flagship X-T2 model. Does the X-T20 cut too many corners to hit its more aggressive £799 / $899 price-tag? Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T20 review to find out...
The Sony Xpreria XZ Premium is a new smartphone with a 19-megapixel imager, a 25mm (eq.) f/2 lens, laser-assisted auto focus and 960fps video recording capability at 720p HD resolution for ultra-slow-motion playback. For the first time ever in a smartphone, Xperia XZ Premium features a 4K (2160x3840-pixel) 5.5” HDR display that uses Sony’s BRAVIA TV technology to give you an immersive 4K HDR viewing experience in the palm of your hand. Additional improvements have been made to the Bionz for mobile processing engine meaning it detects moving objects more precisely to enable Predictive Capture. Clarity, detail and texture are also improved hanks to the redesigned G lens with high optical clarity. The Xperia XZ Premium is available globally in in Luminous Chrome and Deepsea Black from late Spring 2017. Pricing to be confirmed.
The Sony A6500 is the latest high-end compact system camera with an APS-C size sensor. With 24.2 megapixels, 4K movie recording, in-body 5-axis stabilization, a touchscreen 3-inch tilting LCD screen, 11fps burst shooting, electronic viewfinder and built-in flash, is the A6500 the best Sony APS-C camera yet? Read our Sony A6500 review to find out...
The Sony A99 II is a new 42 megapixel full-frame interchangeable lens camera that uses the Sony A-mount. Can the A99 II compete with the likes of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the Nikon D810? Read our in-depth Sony A99 II review to find out...
The Zeiss Loxia 85mm f/2.4 is a new short telelphoto prime lens designed specifically for Sony full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras. Read our in-depth Zeiss Loxia 85mm f/2.4 review to find out if it's worth the $1399 / £1199 / €1399 asking price...
The new Metz mecablitz M400 flash, which was announced in the run-up to Photokina 2016, is now available in the United Kingdom in Canon, Nikon, Micro FourThirds, Pentax, Sony and Fuji fittings. Powered by four AAA sized NiMH, alkaline-magnesium or lithium batteries, the Metz mecablitz M400 has a zoom-swivel head covering a FOV range matching that of a full-frame 24-105mm lens, with a guide number of 40 (in metres at ISO 100/21°) at the 105mm position. Depending on your camera, the mecablitz M400 with master and slave mode also offers wireless TTL flash functionality. The M400 comes with an adjustable LED video/modelling light, bounce card and integrated wide-angle diffuser. Other highlights include high-speed flash synchronisation, second-curtain sync and red-eye reduction. The flash is available for £121.99 including value-added tax.
Phase One today released Capture One Pro 10. This update brings faster browsing, zooming, panning, and ease in switching between images even at 100 percent view. A new lens tool option corrects lost sharpness caused by diffraction, while an enhanced proof mode allows for onscreen profiling, which takes the guesswork out of the raw conversion process. Additionally, users can now access Capture One Pro directly through a Tangent panel system. This fully integrated panel is literally a new interface into image editing, allowing fast, multiple input commands simultaneously, while viewing the master monitor as the editor "feels" input into the application. A new camera focus tool module has been added to facilitate tethered shooting, which will be especially useful for product, still life, macro, and Cultural Heritage photography projects. Last but not least, Phase One have added support for a number of new cameras including the Olympus OM-D E-M1 ll, Sony RX100M5, Sony A6500 and Sony A99M2. "We have developed Capture One Pro 10 to greatly improve users' experience so they can achieve the results they want much faster and with greater confidence," said James Johnson, software product manager, Phase One. "Image adjustment options are now at a whole new level. We believe that with this release, we are delivering the most powerful, responsive, and user customizable image processor available." New customers can purchase Capture One Pro 10 for €279/$299. Owners of Capture One Pro 8 and 9 may upgrade for €/$99. For customers who have purchased Capture One Pro 9 after 1 November 2016, Phase One are offering a grace period, exempting them from the upgrade fee.
Intro2020 have announced the upcoming launch of two new Cullmann tripod ranges, several new photo bags, LED video lights and a flashgun. The Mundo tripod (£179.99) features an integrated monopod, so it is ideal for landscape, portrait or architectural photography as a tripod, or a monopod for sports and action photography. The Neomax mini travel tripods (£59.99 to £79.99) offer fast operation, high stability and low weight. Each Neomax tripod features an aluminium ball head with camera quick release system, robust feet and comes complete with a tripod case. The new Stockholm bags (£44.99 to £89.99) include a daypack and four shoulder bags in various sizes. The design of the Stockholm series is simple, clean and without frills. All bags come in a cool grey polyester material, which is water repellent and abrasion resistant. Additionally, there are 5 sizes of CUlight LED video lights (£49.99 to £299.99); 3 x daylight and 2 x bi-colour lights, plus a Cullmann flashgun, the CUlight FR60 (£249.99). Besides the high guide number of 60, TTL functions for Canon, Nikon, and Sony cameras, a zoom range from 20 – 200mm as well as a USB port for firmware updates, the highlight of the CUlight FR60 is the integrated radio remote control, which works over a distance of 100m, and does not require a line-of-sight link. The CUlight FR60 flash can therefore be installed at exactly the locations where it can provide the best possible illumination. These new products are set to arrive in the UK in early January 2017.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000 is a flagship super-zoom compact camera, offering a large 1-inch image sensor with 20 megapixels, 4K video recording, and a 20x zoom lens with a 26-480mm focal range. Priced at £1099.99 / $1199.99, read our expert Panasonic FZ2000 review to find out if this is the ultimate do-it-all camera...
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 is a powerful compact camera. The LX15 features a large 1-inch CMOS sensor, 4K video recording, fast 24-72mm f/1.4-2.8 lens, and a a tilting 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen, all in a camera that you can fit in a trouser pocket. Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 review with sample JPEG, RAW and video files to find out if Sony should be worried or not...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V offers the World’s fastest auto-focusing speed, the World's most AF points, and the World's fastest continuous shooting speed, for a humble compact camera. Is this enough to justify the $1000 / £1000 price-tag? Find out by reading our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V review, complete with sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
The Sony A6500 is a new flagship APS-C sensor camera which combines the World’s fastest AF speed and highest number of AF points with In-camera 5-axis image stabilisation, touchscreen AFoperation, and a 24.2 MP Exmor CMOS sensor.
The new Sony A6500 interchangeable lens camera will be available in Europe in December priced at approximately €1,700 body only or €2,800 with the SEL1670Z lens.
The Zeiss Milvus 18mm f/2.8 is a brand new ultra-wide-angle prime lens for 35mm full-frame DSLR and mirrorless cameras. The manual-focus-only Milvus 18mm offers a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, 9 aperture blades, and superlative build quality including weatherproofing. Read our expert Zeiss Milvus 18mm f/2.8 review now...
The Elinchrom EL-Skyport Plus HS transmitter is now available to Olympus users. This will give them the ability to control and visualise power settings for all their compatible Elinchrom lights and the capability to shoot at speeds up to 1/8000s in Hi-Sync mode. The ODS (Over Drive Sync) enables users to fine tune the Skyport Plus HS transmitter’s trigger signal to optimise exposure at high shutter speeds whilst gaining up to 2 more f-stops of light. The transmitter attaches easily and securely to the hotshoe with its quick-lock mechanism, and is powered by 2x AA batteries. Users can also enjoy a range of up to 656ft (200m) outdoors, and up to 196ft (60m) indoors.
Broncolor has unveiled the new “RFS 2.2 Transceiver” which will facilitate high-speed synchronisation in the Siros L and Move flash systems. Advantages include allowing the photographer to use a high shutter speed (up to 1/8000s) to freeze motion, overpower the sun with less flash power and equipment, darken backgrounds using a high shutter speed, and most importantly shoot with a large aperture creating a shallow depth of field. The new unit also offers the user a bright illuminated LCD screen which is easy to read and clearly indicates all settings. The RFS 2.2 transceiver is compatible with all Broncolor power packs or monolights equipped with an RFS 2 or 2.1 interface. Available in Canon, Nikon and Sony versions, the Broncolor RFS 2.2 Transceiver is priced at $114.95. Additionally, Broncolor has announced a new honeycomb grid, the Strip Grid 5:1 for P70 reflector ($235.00). It has the same function as all Broncolor honeycomb grids, with a new shape of the honeycomb.
Metz has launched the mecablitz M400, a compact system flash for Canon, Nikon, Micro FourThirds, Pentax, Sony and Fujifilm cameras. Powered by four AAA sized NiMH, alkaline-magnesium or lithium batteries, the Metz mecablitz M400 has a zoom-swivel head covering a FOV range matching that of a full-frame 24-105mm lens, with a guide number of 40 (in metres at ISO 100/21°) at the 105mm position. Depending on your camera, the mecablitz M400 with master and slave mode also offers wireless TTL flash functionality. The M400 comes with an adjustable LED video/modelling light, bounce card and integrated wide-angle diffuser. Other highlights include high-speed flash synchronisation, second-curtain sync and red-eye reduction. Availability and pricing to be confirmed.
The YI M1 is a new compact system camera with a 20.2-megapixel FourThirds sensor, a Micro FourThirds lens mount, a 3" touchscreen, an 81-point CDAF system, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE connectivity and 4K video recording capabilities. Made in China, the YI M1 offers a mostly touchscreen-based user interface and comes in a single-zoom kit (￥2199, with a 12-40mm f/3.5-5.6 standard zoom) and a double-lens bundle (¥2999 including the camera body, the afore-mentioned standard zoom and a 42.5mm f/1.8 portrait lens). US and European pricing and availability will be announced soon by YI Technology. To view the YI M1 in person at Photokina 2016, visit booth A-032, Hall 09.1.
The ZEISS Loxia 2.4/85 is a new portrait lens for Sony mirrorless full-frame cameras with E mount. The new Loxia 2.4/85 with its seven lens elements in seven groups has been designed for digital sensors and is based on an optimized ZEISS Sonnar design. The lens has a minimum object distance of 0.80 meters. The manual focus ring has a rotation angle of 220 degrees and enables the subtlest variations of focusing. The large aperture of f/2.4 combined with the high-quality optical design ensures an appealing bokeh. The electronic interface transfers lens data (EXIF) as well as focus movements. Global delivery of the ZEISS Loxia 2.4/85 will begin at the beginning of December 2016. The recommended retail sales price is 1,399 euros (including 19% VAT in Germany) or 1,399 US$.
Sony has launched a new 4K action camera with a 1/2.5"-type 8.2-megapixel CMOS imager, new Zeiss Tessar lens and Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation. The Sony FDR-X3000R comes supplied with Sony’s latest Live-View Remote, which is approximately 30% smaller than its predecessor and can be attached to mount accessories such as the optional Handlebar Mount (VCT-HM2) using the supplied mount adaptor. This may also be worn like a wristband or attached to various optional accessories such as Shooting Grip (VCT-STG1) or the new Finger Grip (AKA-FGP1) with the key advantage being control of shooting settings including power on/off and start/stop recording, without having to touch the camera itself. Users can capture high-bitrate recordings in 4K at 100Mbps, Full HD at 50Mbps in the XAVC S format. The new FDR-X3000R will start shipping in November 2016 priced at approximately £500 / €660.
Tamron have announced the upcoming launch of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 telephoto zoom lens. This second-generation lens builds upon the success of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD, which was announced in December 2013, but promises to deliver superior optical performance with today’s high resolution DSLRs and to add improvements to several features including the speed and accuracy of the Vibration Compensation and auto focus systems. The design incorporates an upgraded optical construction (21 elements in 13 groups, including 3 low-dispersion lens elements) and a metal lens barrel. The minimum object distance has been reduced to 2.2m from 2.7m in the previous model. A new FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism enables the locking of the zoom ring at any position, while the Vibration Compensation system has been upgraded to offer three distinct image stabilisation modes; Standard, Panning and VC Mode 3, which prioritises the stabilisation of the captured images and forgoes the stabilisation of the viewfinder image. Additionally, an electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now employed in the Nikon version too. Two exclusive, separately sold teleconverters, which perfectly match the optics of the new SP 150-600mm G2 offer 1.4x and 2.0x magnification to extend the lens' reach to 1,200mm. The Canon and Nikon mount models will be launched in the second half of September, with a Sony version being released at a later date. In teh US, the lens will be available for $1,399.
Sony today introduced its latest NXCAM camcorder, the HXR-NX5R. Boasting three 1/2.8-type Full HD Exmor CMOS sensors and 40x Clear Image Zoom function, the Sony HXR-NX5R camcorder offers multi-format recording to cater for a wide range of shooting applications. Upgrades versus the NX3 and NX5 include a 3G-SDI terminal that supports Full HD 60p output, the industry’s first adjustable brightness LED video light and advanced noise reduction. Additionally, the Sony HXR-NX5R provides content creators with new upgraded network functions including FTP and live streaming, with built in Wi-Fi, along with simultaneous backup recording through dual SD card slots. A choice of advanced XAVC S 50Mbps or established AVCHD / DV recording formats is available to suit a range of workflows. The new camcorder is planned to be available in September 2016.
Cascable is a remote control app for Apple devices that works with 50 different Wi-Fi enabled cameras from Canon, Nikon, Olympus and Sony. It provides full remote control over your camera, as well as copying and exporting full resolution photos, including raw files. Is Cascable a viable alternative to the free apps from the camera manufacturers? Read our in-depth Cascable review to find out...
Cascable, an iOS-based remote control app that works with a number of Wi-FI capable cameras, has just been updated to version 2.0. Now supporting 50 models of camera from Canon, Nikon, Sony and Olympus, Cascable enablesfull remote control as well as copying and exporting full resolution photos, including raw files. The basic edition of Cascable 2.0 is available for free from the iTunes App Store, with Pro feature packs being available at $9.99 each.
Sony today announced the availability of a new radio-controlled lighting system. Designed for compatibility with Sony’s Alpha interchangeable lens cameras and external flash units, the new lighting system will include the FA-WRC1M wireless radio commander as well as the FA-WRR1 wireless radio receiver. The new system will start to ship in September 2016 with the FA-WRC1M Remote Commander priced at approximately €420 and the FA-WRR1 Remote Receiver priced at approximately €240.
The Sony RX10 III is a new premium super-zoom camera featuring a 28-600mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4, a 20.1 megapixel 1.0-type CMOS sensor, 4K video recording, wi-fi and NFC connectivity, support for the Raw format and full manual controls. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III review now...
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.
Sekonic have released two new versions of their acclaimed LiteMaster PRO L478 series, touchscreen-operated light meters. The new models - the Sekonic LiteMaster PRO L478DREL and L478DRPX developed in cooperation with Elinchrom in Switzerland and Phottix in Hong Kong -, offer wireless triggering and power control of Elinchrom flash units and triggering of flashes and radio triggers using the ELSkyport and Phottix Strato II protocol, respectively. Both use Sekonic’s DTS (Data Transfer Software) system that automates meter calibration to the camera in use. The L478DREL’s power screen enables separate selection of any of the four lighting Groups, 1,2,3,4, for flash brightness adjustment in 0.1EV increments by simply tapping buttons on the meter’s touchscreen.The L478DRPX flash control screen allows selection of a single group or a combination of groups for flash brightness measurement. The measured value for each group is maintained as a visual record of the brightness difference of the lights in use so that lighting ratio for a total exposure reading can easily be determined. The L478DRPX group selection and triggering is compatible with Phottix flashes and radios that are compatible with the Phottix Strato II protocol. This includes flashes connected to the Strato and Strato II receiver and the Atlas II transceivers. Compatible Phottix flashes include the Indra360, Indra500 and Mitros+series flashes designed for use with Canon, Nikon and Sony cameras. Both the Elinchrom and the Phottix versions of the Litemaster PRO L478 are available for £350.
The Elinchrom EL-Skyport Plus HS transmitter is now available to Sony users. This will give them the ability to control and visualise power settings for all their compatible Elinchrom lights and the capability to shoot at speeds up to 1/8000s in Hi-Sync mode. The ODS (Over Drive Sync) enables users to fine tune the Skyport Plus HS transmitter’s trigger signal to optimise exposure at high shutter speeds whilst gaining up to 2 more f-stops of light. Moreover, users can control the modelling lamp and power of each flash unit directly from the Skyport transmitter, which instantly shows the updated settings. The Elinchrom EL-Skyport Plus HS is available for $249.95 / €249 / £199.
The Sony A68 is a new mid-range interchangeable lens camera with a class-leading autofocus system featuring 79-points with 15 cross-sensors and 40% frame coverage. The A68 also offers a 24.2 megapixel sensor, 8fps burst shooting, 1080p Full HD movies, high-resolution OLED viewfinder, tilting LCD screen, and an ISO range of 50-25,600. Read our in-depth Sony A68 review now, complete with full-size JPEG and RAW files...
The new K-1 is the long-awaited full-frame DSLR camera from Pentax, based around a 36.4 megapixel CMOS sensor. Is this the best ever Pentax DSLR? Read our in-depth Pentax K-1 review to find out...
The Sony A6300 is a new high-end compact system camera that features the fastest auto-focusing system in the world and the highest number of AF points. With a 24.2 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, 4K movie recording, high-res 3-inch tilting LCD screen, electronic viewfinder and built-in flash, the Sony NEX-6 also offers 11fps burst shooting, wi-fi and NFC connectivity, and downloadable PlayMemories Camera Apps. Read our in-depth Sony A6300 review to find out if it's the best Sony APS-C camera yet...
Photography Blog attended yesterday’s European launch of the new Hasselblad H6D medium format camera in London, upgrading the previous H4 and H5 models, and got to spend some time with, and take some exclusive hands on photos of, both the 50MP and 100MP versions – outwardly identical apart from their model numbers, but inwardly quite different.
Introducing the new digital medium format camera in its two iterations – the company’s first launch this year – Hasselblad’s CEO Perry Oosting told those in attendance that this was “a completely new electronic platform. We started from scratch and are very proud to launch our first product of 2016.”
The Metz mecablitz 26 AF-2 is a new flash with a guide number of 26 (in metres at ISO 100/21°). Features include a wide-angle diffuser (24mm), up to 85mm illumination with the included telephoto diffuser, a vertically tilting reflector for an indirect flash and an adjustable LED video light, which creates additional illumination when shooting video. Depending on the camera, the Metz 26 AF-2 also offers wireless TTL flash. To ensure that the unit is always up to date, firmware updates can be downloaded via USB. The flash will be available from the end of this month.
Adobe has released Lightroom CC 2015.5 / Lightroom 6.5 plus Adobe Camera Raw 9.5. The updates add support for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, EOS 80D and EOS 1300D, the Nikon D500 and D5, the Olympus PEN-F and SH-3, the Panasonic DMC-CM10, GF8 and TZ100, the Samsung NX3300, the Sony Alpha A6300 and the Yuneec CGO4, and fix a number of bugs.
Sony today announced the PXW-Z150, the latest addition to its XDCAM range of lightweight professional camcorders with new functionality to enable wireless operation and 4K shooting. The Sony PXW-Z150 features a 1"-type stacked Exmor RS CMOS image sensor with a resolution of 20 megapixels and a 4K compatible 29-348mm equivalent zoom lens with an integrated four-stop ND filter, and supports Sony's 4K XAVC-L recording format. Full HD 120fps shooing is also supported for 5x slow-motion playback. The PXW-Z150 can be easily controlled by a smartphone or tablet using a Wi-Fi remote, and has a battery life which delivers a 400-minute recording time. High visibility is delivered with the wide view-angle and high contrast 0.39-type 1440K OLED viewfinder, alongside the 3.5-type 1550K LCD panel. The Sony PXW-Z150 camcorder will be available for $3,595.
The Sony RX1R II is a premium compact camera with a 42.4-megapixel full-frame sensor, variable optical low-pass filter, a Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens and a built-in electronic viewfinder for eye-level shooting. Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II review to find out if it's worth the £2599 / $3299 asking price...
Sony has announced the commercialisation of a new Exmor RS imager billed as the World's first stacked CMOS sensor with built-in hybrid AF and "3-axis" image-stabilisation. The 1/2.6"-type Sony Exmor RS IMX318 has a pixel pitch of 1μm and a resolution of 22.5 effective megapixels. The dimensions and pixel size make this sensor suitable for inclusion into smartphones and ultra-compact cameras. Sony aims to begin shipments for this new CMOS image sensor in May 2016.
Sony today introduced their newest action camera, the HDR-AS50. The new model has an 11.1 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor paired with a Zeiss Tessar lens, and features advanced SteadyShot image stabilisation which is especially effective against the kind of low-amplitude vibration that can occur when used with radio-controlled helicopters or drones. The new camera has implemented some changes based on customer feedback from athletes and other previous users and now comes with several new and improved user features. Adjustable and enhanced beep sounds as well as three tally lights on the top, front and back have been added to allow greater notice of camera conditions even when wearing a helmet and when mounted on handlebars or monopods. Divers and swimmers can now benefit from a supplied underwater housing, which allows footage to be captured down to 60m under water. Sony’s own in-built movie creator, Highlight Movie Maker now incorporates face detection and automatically assembles a highlight package which can be viewed and shared immediately. Sony’s new HDR-AS50 Action Cam will be available in February 2016.
The Zeiss Loxia 21mm F2.8 is a premium ultra-wide-angle prime lens for Sony's 35mm full-frame E-mount camera system. The manual-focus Loxia 21mm lens offers a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, 10 aperture blades, superlative build quality, and an aperture ring that can be de-clicked for video use. Read our Zeiss Loxia 21mm F2.8 review now...
The Sony A7S II is a new compact system camera that can literally shoot in the dark. Building on last year's A7S model, the new mark II version offers more video features, enhanced ergonomics, built-in image stabilisation and faster focusing. Read our in-depth Sony A7S II review now...
The Sony A68 A-mount camera features Sony’s unique 4D FOCUS system that delivers extraordinary AF performance under any shooting conditions, even in lighting as low as EV-2. The A68's AF system has 79 autofocus detection points including 15 cross points and a dedicated F2.8 AF sensor point for dimly-lit scenes. Other key features include a 24MP APS-C Exmor CMOS image sensor, ISO 100-25600, BIONZ X image processor, Full HD movies in the XAVC Sv format, OLED Tru-Finder with 100% frame coverage, a 2.7-type LCD monitor that tilts up to 135 degrees upwards or 55 degrees downwards, and in-body image stabilisation. The price and availability of the new Sony A68 are still to be announced.
The Zeiss Milvus 50mm f/1.4 is a brand new standard prime lens for Canon and Nikon 35mm full-frame DSLR cameras. The manual-focus-only Milvus 50mm offers a fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, 9 aperture blades, and superlative build quality including weatherproofing. Read our Zeiss Milvus 50mm f/1.4 review now...
The Zeiss Milvus 85mm f/1.4 is a brand new short-telephoto prime lens for Canon and Nikon 35mm full-frame DSLR cameras. The manual-focus-only Milvus 85mm offers a fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, 9 aperture blades, and superlative build quality including weatherproofing. Read our Zeiss Milvus 85mm f/1.4 review now...
The EL-Skyport Plus HS is Elinchrom's most advanced Skyport flash trigger to date. The large LCD display of the Skyport HS features two-way control via a new Visual Feedback Interface that lets you see the exact power of every light in your setup right on the transmitter. Users control each light’s power level and modeling lamp setting directly from the Skyport transmitter, which instantly shows the updated power settings. Additionally, the transmitter offers a HiSync mode giving users access to sync speeds up to 1/8000s to freeze motion, overpower the sun, darken backgrounds or use a wider aperture when used in combination with the also-new Elinchrom Quadra HS flash head. The Skyport HS is also compatible with Elinchrom's three previous generations of flash units (including the EL- Skyport Transceiver RX module for Style RX, Digital RX, and Ranger RX systems, and the integrated EL-Skyport modules for the BRX, D-Lite RX, ELC Pro HD, and ELB series.) Offering a working range of up to 200 feet, the EL-Skyport Transmitter Plus HS is currently available for Canon and Nikon for $249.95 / €249.00 / £199.00.
The ZEISS Loxia 2.8/21 is a super wide angle lens for compact full-frame cameras with E-mount. With a new optical design based on the ZEISS Distagon, the Zeiss Loxia 21mm lens has an angular field exceeding 91 degrees (diagonal) on a full-frame camera and a minimum object distance of just 0.25 meters (9.84”).
The ZEISS Loxia 2.8/21 will be available worldwide starting December 2015. The lens shade is included with delivery. The recommended retail price is USD 1,499 (excl. VAT) or EUR 1,259.66 (excl. VAT).*
The Sony A7R II is a hotly-anticipated full-frame compact system camera that promises to outclass the DSLR competition. Is this the best full-frame camera on the market? Read our Sony A7R II review to find out...
The Sony PXW-FS5 is a compact interchangeable-lens Super 35mm camcorder with 4K XAVC video recording capability. Ergonomically designed for hand-held shooting, the Sony PXW-FS5 can be used in almost any location, even airborne when mounted on a drone. The camera’s Super35 Exmor CMOS sensor incorporates 11.6 million (8.3 million effective) pixels. High-quality imagery is further ensured by high frame rate cache recording at 10-bit 4:2:2 Full HD and a high frame rate of up to 240 fps, in 8 second bursts, which makes 1/10 times Super Slow Motion possible without sacrificing bit depth or loss of image quality. The PXW-FS5’s E-mount can take virtually any lens, such as SLR lenses via an adapter, as well as Sony’s E-mount and A-mount lenses. The compact power zoom E lens PZ 18-105mm F4 G OSS (SELP18105G), provided in the PXW-FS5K kit model enables zoom operation with one hand. The PXW-FS5 is planned to be available in November 2015, at $6,699 (body only) and $7,299 (kit).
Zeiss has announced the new Zeiss Milvus line, which initially comprises six all-metal manual-focus primes optimised for today's high-resolution digital SLR cameras from Canon and Nikon. These include the Zeiss Milvus 21mm f/2.8 (€1,699/$1,843), 35mm f/2 (€1,099/$1,177), 50 f/1.4 (€1,199/$1,199), 50 f/2 Macro (€1,199/1,283), 85mm f/1.4 (€1,799 / $1,799) and 100 f/2 Macro (€1,699/$1,843) lenses. The new optics will be available from 15 October 2015. Further focal lengths will be added to the Zeiss Milvus product family over the next few years, the company says. Click through / read on for more details.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV is the latest version of Sony's flagship pocket camera for enthusiasts, now offering 4K video recording, a new image sensor and an electronic shutter. Is this the ultimate compact camera? Read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV review to find out...
The Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 is a brand new moderate prime lens designed specifically for Sony full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras. Read our Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 review to find out if it's worth the $1199 / £899 / €1049 asking price...
The Zeiss Batis 25mm f/2 is a brand new wide-angle prime lens designed specifically for Sony full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras. Read our Zeiss Batis 25mm f/2 review to find out if it's worth the $1299 / £979 / €1149 asking price...
Canon, today introduced their first multi-purpose camera, the new ME20F-SH, which delivers an ISO sensitivity of over 4,000,000. This multi-purpose camera employs an enhanced version of the 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor for Full HD video use that was originally developed by Canon in 2013. It has a pixel pitch of 19μm, and each of its sensor photosites has a surface area of 361 μm2, which is much higher than the corresponding values of the Canon EOS-1D X (6.94 μm and 48.16 μm2, respectively). Furthermore, similar to Canon’s Cinema EOS System of professional digital cinematography cameras, the ME20F-SH includes Canon Log and Wide DR. The camera employs the same EF mount (Cinema Lock type) as Canon’s SLR cameras and Cinema EOS System-series of professional digital cameras, allowing users to make use of the company's extensive lineup of interchangeable lenses. The Canon ME20F-SH is expected to be available in December 2015 at a suggested retail price of $30,000.
Kenro have announced the UK a new Sony fit for the Nissin Di700A with Commander Air1 Flash Kit (£239.94). The Nissin Commander Air1 can control 3 groups of Nissin Di700A flash (with a maximum of 21 NAS guns), making it an ideal controller for photographers who wish to simultaneously fire multiple strobes at various distances and without the need for cables. The Commander Air1 (pictured) is also available to purchase separately, for £59.94. "We're very excited about this new addition to the range," says Paul Kench, Kenro's managing director. "Sony is a major contender in the digital camera market - dominated by Canon and Nikon - and Nissin has recognized this by now making all their new flash systems compatible with Sony cameras."
DxO have released DxO OpticsPro 10.4.2, DxO FilmPack v5.1.4, and DxO ViewPoint 2.5.6 for Mac and Windows. These updates add support for the Canon EOS 5DS and 5DS R. Additionally, DxO OpticsPro 10.4.2 also adds 789 new camera/lens combinations to its DxO Optics Modules library, whilst DxO FilmPack 5.1.4 and DxO ViewPoint 2.5.6 gain full compatibility with Adobe Photoshop CC 2015.
Atomos have released AtomOS6.4 for their Shogun external recorder/monitor, which enables users of the Sony FS700 and FS7 (pictured) to take the RAW 4K-DCI feed from the SDI output on the camera and record directly to 4K-DCI ProRes or DNxHR. Other new features include anamorphic de-squeeze, pre-roll recording, custom time-lapse capture, additional LUT capabilities, playlist generation, expanded metadata tagging and the activation of the Genlock terminal on the back of the Shogun to allow for synchronised playout and playback.
The Leica Q (Typ 116) is a new serious compact camera, offering a 24 megapixel full-frame sensor, 1080 60/30p HD video recording, fast f/1.7 28mm lens, 10fps burst shooting, EVF and a 3-inch touchscreen. Read our in-depth Leica Q (Typ 116) review now...
The Sony NXCAM HXR-NX100 is a new professional video camera featuring a 1"-type 20-megapixel sensor, which is approximately the same size as a Super 16mm film frame. Other highlights include a fixed Sony G lens, offering 12x optical zoom and a built-in 4-step ND filter; manual focus, zoom and aperture rings; a 0.24"-type 1550K-dot EVF and 3.5"-type 1550K-dot LCD; and a wide variety of connectivity options including HDMI, Multi/Micro USB, XLR terminals, REMOTE, Composite (BNC) and a Multi Interface (MI) Shoe. The camcorder offers multiple recording formats including AVCHD and DV which are suitable for conventional workflow, and newly implemented XAVC S 50Mbps which delivers better image quality especially for professional needs. The Sony HXR-NX100 will available in October 2015.
The Fujifilm X-T10 is a new mid-range compact system camera that inherits most of the key features of the flagship X-T1 model. Does the X-T10 cut too many corners to hit its aggressive £499 / $799 price-tag, or does it offer a compelling blend of features, performance and price? Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T10 review to find out...
The Linux version of Pixeluvo, a new professional-grade imaging suite developed by Andy Gill, is now available to purchase. Using a full range of colour transform filters, Pixeluvo allows users to transform the entire look of an image. Curves and levels adjustmentss offer users complete control while colour temperature, shadows, midtones and highlights can easily be adjusted to create the perfect balance. “With Pixeluvo there is absolutely no reason why part-time photographers should have to feel at a disadvantage to their full-time counterparts,” Andy says. “The software offers all the advanced features and functions of Photoshop, yet without the complex interface and sky-high price tag.” To find out more about the benefits of the software and download a free trial, visit the website below.
The new Nissin Di700A with Commander Air1 Flash Kit is now available for purchase in the UK in both Canon and Nikon fittings. The flash kit is a 2.4GHz radio transmission wireless flash system that links up to 21 Nissin Air System (NAS) flash guns. The Nissin Commander Air1 itself is a hotshoe-mountable commander unit with manual and TTL flash output control, eight radio channels and a simple, dial-based user interface. The Nissin Di700A is essentially a Di700 with a built-in receiver, which makes it capable of communicating with the Nissin Commander Air1. The kit is priced at £239.94.
Former Sony games developer, Andy Gill has released an innovative new photo editing tool called Pixeluvo. Using a full range of colour transform filters, Pixeluvo allows users to transform the entire look of an image. Curves and levels adjustmentss offer editors complete control while temperature, shadows, midtones and highlights can be adjusted to create the perfect balance. “With Pixeluvo there is absolutely no reason why part-time photographers should have to feel at a disadvantage to their full-time counterparts,” Andy says. “The software offers all the advanced features and functions of Photoshop, yet without the complex interface and sky-high price tag.” Pixeluvo is available for both Linux and Windows. To find out more about the benefits of the software and download a free trial, visit the website below.
The Zeiss Loxia 50mm f/2 Planar T* is a premium standard prime lens for Sony's 35mm full-frame E-mount camera system. The manual-focus Loxia 50mm offers a fast f/2 maximum aperture, 10 aperture blades, superlative build quality, and an aperture ring that can be de-clicked for video use. Read our Zeiss Loxia 50mm f/2 Planar T* review now...
The Zeiss Loxia 35mm f/2 Biogon T* is a premium moderate wide-angle prime lens for Sony's 35mm full-frame E-mount camera system. The manual-focus Loxia 35mm offers a fast f/2 maximum aperture, 10 aperture blades, superlative build quality, and an aperture ring that can be de-clicked for video use. Read our Zeiss Loxia 35mm f/2 Biogon T* review now...
DxO have released DxO OpticsPro 10.4, DxO FilmPack 5.1.2 and DxO ViewPoint 2.5.4 for Mac and Windows. These new versions add support for the Nikon D7200 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (pictured). To further improve workflow, the DxO OpticsPro interface now offers a new “Reset” button that lets users cancel in just one click all of the manual corrections made to an image and to return to the default preset corrections, and includes support for several DxO optics modules offering support for Konica Minolta, Nikon, Olympus, Sigma, Sony, Tamron, Tokina, and Zeiss lenses for many Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, and Sony cameras.
The Sony A7 II is the first full-frame compact system camera in the World to feature built-in 5-axis stabilisation. Other key improvements include better ergonomics and build quality, faster auto-focusing and startup, a wider range of video options, and greater customisability. Is this the best ever Sony full-frame compact system camera? Read our Sony A7 II review to find out...
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is a new high-end compact system camera with a number of innovative features that make it stand out from the crowd, including the world's most effective image stabilisation system. Read our expert Olympus E-M5 II review to find out if it's also the best compact system camera...
Kenro has announced a new version of the Nissin Di700 flash, which features a built-in radio receiver allowing it to be wirelessly triggered via the also-new Nissin Commander Air1 TTL command unit. The Nissin Di700A with Commander Air1 is a 2.4GHz radio transmission wireless flash system that links up to 21 Nissin Air System flash units in up to 3 groups. The Nissin Commander Air1 itself is a hotshoe-mountable commander unit with manual and TTL flash output control, eight radio channels and a simple, dial-based user interface. The Nissin Di700A is essentially a Di700 with a built-in receiver, which makes it capable of communicating with the Nissin Commander Air1. The kit is priced at £239.94, with the flash and commander unit also being available separately for £209.94 and £59.94, respectively. The Di700A and Air1 are available in Canon and Nikon fits in March, with a Sony version due in May.
Schneider Kreuznach has announced the launch of the Xenon Full Frame Prime lenses in the United Kingdom. Each Schneider Kreuznach Xenon full-frame prime lens features an M95 filter thread, a focus ring with a 300° angle of rotation, robust cine-style lens mechanics, a maximum aperture of T2.1, a circular aperture with 14 diaphragm blades and an exchangeable bayonet interface. The Xenon FF-Prime lens family will eventually include an 18mm T2.4, 25mm T2.1, 35mm T2.1, 50mm T2.1, and 100mm T2.1 focal lengths.
The Nikon D5500 is a new 24 megapixel mid-range DSLR camera with a touchscreen interface. The smaller, lighter D5500 also offers 1080/60/50p video recording, ISO range of 100-25,600, 5fps continuous shooting, a range of creative effects, 3.2 inch tilting LCD screen, and a 39-point autofocus system. Read our in-depth Nikon D5500 review now...
DxO has released DxO OpticsPro v10.2, DxO FilmPack v5.1 and DxO ViewPoint v2.5.2. The updates add support for the Sony A7 II, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100, the Pentax K-S1, and the Samsung Galaxy S5. The DxO Optics Modules database benefits form the addition of 291 new camera/lens combinations. DxO OpticsPro v10.2, DxO FilmPack v5.1 and DxO ViewPoint v2.5.2 are now available in the DxO online store.
Gary Fong today introduced his new Interactive Virtual Camera Modules. With a model-specific virtual camera, photographers have the ability to intuitively navigate through information-packed Premium Video Tutorials that directly reflect what each button does. The Premium Videos behind each press of the virtual camera’s buttons contain extended, carefully-detailed tutorial courses from Gary Fong himself. “Customer education is the cornerstone of our business,” Gary says. “It is imperative we explore new approaches to learning, such as the Interactive Virtual Camera Modules, to teach our customers how to bring their cameras to life.” The Interactive Virtual Camera Modules are currently available for the Sony a6000 and the Sony A7 II. Modules for the Canon 7D Mark II and Nikon D750 are coming soon
The Sony Handycam FDR-AXP33 is a compact 4K camcorder featuring Balanced Optical SteadyShot technology. This powerful image stabilisation system keeps 4K video exceptionally smooth and stable, the company claims. About 30% smaller and 20% lighter than the existing FDR-AX100, the new FDR-AXP33 can record 4K video at a bit rate of 100 megabits per second, and sports a manual ring and button that can be assigned to functions like zoom, focus and exposure. The EVF boasts three times the detail of predecessor models such as the HDR-PJ810 and 820. The FDR-AXP33 also features an ISO-compatible Multi Interface shoe which accepts a variety of add-ons and expands the creative opportunities for the videographer. There's even a built-in projector with auto keystone adjustment and a 50-lumen brightness. The Sony Handycam FDR-AXP33 will be available in February, priced at £1,079.
The Leica V-Lux (Typ 114) is is a new super-zoom compact camera, offering a large 1-inch image sensor with 20 megapixels, 4K video recording and a 16x zoom lens with a 25-400mm focal range. Priced at £925 / $1350, read our expert Leica V-Lux (Typ 114) review to find out if it can justify its price-tag...
The new silver edition of the Fujfilm X-T1 adds a more durable coating, ultra-fast electronic shutter, Natural Live View function, and a Classic Chrome film simulation mode to one of the year's most popular mirrorless cameras. Read our Fujifilm X-T1 Graphite Silver review to find out if this new edition is another hit for Fujifilm...
The Hasselblad Stellar II is a new camera based on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II. Priced at €1,650 (plus tax), the Hasselblad Stellar II comes with an option of four different grip finishes: olive wood; walnut; padouk and carbon fibre. "Fuelled by our ongoing collaboration with Sony and Zeiss, the pocket-sized Stellar models are proving extremely popular,". says Ian Rawcliffe, Hasselblad's CEO. "Photographers are delighted to have the option of owning the latest technology married with Hasselblad's design vision and heritage." For more information, visit the website below.
The Sony Xperia Z3 is a new flagship waterproof smartphone that features a lot of cutting-edge camera technologies. The Xperia Z3 has a 20 megapixel sensor, 25mm fixed lens with fast f/2 aperture, 4K and 1080p video, sweep panoramas, a range of picture effects and Timeshift burst shooting. Read our in-depth Sony Xperia Z3 review now...
Phottix have launched two new Mitros TTL Flash units for use with the proprietary Sony multi-interface hotshoe.The Mitros and Mitros+ units share many significant features including a guide number of 58, full TTL functionality as well as manual and multi modes, Auto/Manual Flash Head Zoom with 180 degree rotation and 97 degree tilt, High Speed Sync and Rear Curtain Sync, Manual and bracketed Flash Exposure Compensation, and a Quick Flash Mode: with 0.1-2.5 second recharge times and much more including a USB port for future firmware upgrades and a 3.5mm sync port. The Phottix Mitros+ adds significant functionality, allowing photographers to not only use the Mitros on or off camera for lighting, but to also control and trigger remote flash by radio signal. The new Phottix Mitros is now available for $299 and the Mitros+ is also now available for $399.
LockCircle has announced its latest BirdCage for the Panasonic Lumix GH4 and the Sony A7/A7R/A7S compact system cameras. Billed as the first Modular Production Cage System in the market, the BirdCage by LockCircle weighs in at 51 grams and features an integrated LockPort micro-to-full-size HDMI adapter and a system of plates for different setups and Positive-Lock Mounts for precise follow-focus work. Designed by Dante Cecchin, the BirdCage by LockCircle is available from $399/€379. Availability is slated for 20 November 2014.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX30 is a new “lens camera” device that adds a 30x zoom lens and 20 megapixel sensor to your smartphone. Priced at around £250 / $350, read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX30 review to find out if it's the smartphone photographer needs in their life...
The Sony A5100 is an exciting new mid-range compact system camera. The Sony A5100 certainly packs quite a punch, featuring a 24 megapixel APS-C sensor, Fast Hybrid AF system, 1080p HD movies with XAVC S support, 3 inch tilting touch-screen, 6fps burst shooting, built-in wif-fi/NFC connectivity, and a pop-up flash. Read our in-depth Sony A5100 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files and movies...
Sony have announced four new optional accessories for the Sony Alpha-mount camera system. The HVL-F32M Flash (£250) is a slim, light flash unit that attaches to your camera’s Multi Interface Shoe and offers a guide number of 32. The XLR-K2M XLR Adaptor Kit (£514) allows movie makers and videographers can add extra polish to their soundtracks. The RMT-VP1K Remote Commander and IR Receiver Kit (£57) lets photographers enjoy ‘hands-off’ control of cameras functions from a distance. Finally, the LCS-PSC7 Soft Carrying Case (£137) offers generous capacity to hold your camera plus three lenses.
Sony today launched the PXW-FS7, the first 4K XDCAM camera to feature a Super35 CMOS sensor. Capable of shooting in 4K Quad Full HD (QFHD) and super slow-motion Full HD, the latest member of the XDCAM family has an 11.6 million-pixel Super35 ‘Exmor’ CMOS imager and can record QFHDi with 4:2:2 10-bit sampling up to 600 Mbit/s, with support for a variety of recording formats including XAVC Intra, Long GOP, MPEG HD422 and Apple ProRes 422 available early 2015 by firmware update. The new camera features 2 XQD card slots that support simultaneous recording and relay recording. It also includes a low-pass video filter, progressive pixel reading and advanced camera processing. The supplied grip, easily adjustable viewfinder and fully-sealed, die-cast magnesium chassis have been designed to provide robust usability in dusty or humid environments and for ‘run and gun’ applications. The PXW-FS7 features Sony’s α Mount System, which benefits from Silent Focus Technology and Electrical Iris Control. The camera will also be available in a bundle with the new FE PZ 28-135mm F4 G OSS power zoom lens.
The Sony ILCE-QX1 is a new lens-style camera that allows you to use an E-mount lens with your smartphone. The Sony ILCE-QX1 has an APS-C size Exmor CMOS sensor with 20.1-megapixels, BIONZ X processor, advanced camera features including RAW image files, and even a pop-up flash. The compact DSC-QX30 keeps things crisp and clear with its powerful 30x optical zoom lens, supported by Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation that helps eliminate blurring.
Shipping as standard with the ILCE-QX1 and available as an optional accessory for all other QX models, the FSK1 Free Angle Shooting Kit includes a tilt adaptor and a grip, allowing you to shoot from low or high angles or take effortless selfies.
The QX1 (£249) and QX30 (£249) lens-style cameras and new colour variations of QX10 are available to pre-order now from www.sony.co.uk. The QX10 colour variants and QX30 are available in the UK from the end of September 2014 and QX1 and FSK1 (£25) from October 2014.
Sony has updated its PlayMemories Mobile smartphone app to Version 5.0. Available tomorrow, as a free download (iOS and Android), this handy app works with Sony’s QX10, QX30, QX100 and QX1 lens-style cameras, and provides faster one-touch wireless connection by NFC and offers a new touch shutter function that allows fumble-free shooting just by touching your phone screen. Other novelties include a redesigned graphical user interface, on-screen focus confirmation, on-demand grid lines and a new Mirror mode that lets you frame shots in confidence with the camera held at arm’s length. PlayMemories Mobile Version 5.0 for iOS and Android is available for free.
The Samsung NX3000 is a well-appointed new entry-level compact system camera. Featuring a 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, full 1080p video, ISO 100-25,600, a 3 flip-up screen, 5fps continuous shooting and Wi-fi / NFC connectivity, all for just £350 / $529, is this the best budget mirrorless camera? Read our Samsung NX3000 review to find out...
Sony Professional has launched a "business" camcorder with a 1"-type sensor and 12x optical zoom. Equipped with a 13.2×8.8mm, 20-megapixel Exmor-R branded CMOS imager and a 29-348mm equivalent Carl Zeiss T* lens, the Sony XDCAM PXW-X70 camcorder weighs in at 1.4kg and measures 180.9×287×130.3mm. Supporting multiple video recording formats, the Sony XDCAM PXW-X70 features an XLR terminal, dual memory card slots as well as HDMI and 3G-SDI interfaces, and records video at up to 1080p resolution at up to 60fps, with Sony promising 4K recording capabilities via a future firmware upgrade. In addition, the Sony XDCAM PXW-X70 has an integrated Wi-Fi module and supports NFC, making it possible to control the camera via your smartphone. Availability and pricing have yet to be confirmed.
Source: Sony Professional - Japan
The new Sony A7S compact system camera offers an incredible ISO range of ISO 50-409,600, 15-stops of dynamic range when shooting RAW, and 12.2 megapixels on a 35mm full-frame sensor. Add in 4K and XAVC video recording, a truly silent shooting mode, and AF performance in light as low as EV-4, and it's clear that the Sony A7S could be one of the most exciting cameras of 2014. Find out how it really performs in our in-depth Sony A7S review...
The Sony versions of the Metz mecablitz 44 AF-1 digital and 52 AF-1 digital now come equipped with new feet for cameras with “Sony Multi Interface” flash shoes. New Sony digital cameras incorporate new “Sony Multi Interface” flash shoes, which has made it necessary to adapt Metz's Sony-compatible flash units accordingly. With the new editions, it is no longer necessary to use a hotshoe adapter for mounting the Metz mecablitz 44 AF-1 digital and 52 AF-1 digital flashes on the new Sony cameras.
Big sensor - check. Fast lens - check. Built-in viewfinder - check. Tilting LCD screen - check. Wi-fi and NFC - check. Advanced video options - check. Is the new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III the ultimate compact camera? Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II review to find out...
The Sony A77 II is a new interchangeable lens camera with a class-leading autofocus system, featuring 79-points with 15 cross-sensors and 40% frame coverage. The A77 II also offers a 24.3 megapixel sensor, 12fps burst shooting, weatherproof body, 1080p Full HD movies, high-resolution OLED viewfinder, 3-inch free-angle LCD built-in wi-fi / NFC connectivity and an ISO range of 50-25,600. Read our detailed Sony A77 II review now, complete with full-size JPEG and RAW files...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX220 is a slim and stylish compact camera with wi-fi and NFC connectivity. The WX220 also features a 10x zoom lens, 18 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, 10fps continuous shooting and Full 1080p HD movie recording. Priced at around £179, read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX220 review to find out if it's worth considering...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX350 is the world's slimmest camera with a 20x zoom lens. This affordable travel-zoom also offers an 18 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, 10fps continuous shooting, built-in wi-fi/NFC connectivity and Full HD movie recording. Priced at around £239 / €289 / $299, read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX350 review to find out if it lives up to its full promise...
The Canon PowerShot SX700 HS is a new premium travel-zoom camera with a 30x zoom lens in a slim and compact body. The Canon SX700 also offers 16 megapixels, a 3-inch LCD screen, PASM shooting modes, built-in wi-fi/NFC and Full HD 60p movies. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX700 HS review to find out if it's the right compact camera for you...
The Huawei Ascend P7 is an ultra-slim 4G/LTE-capable Android smartphone with two camera modules. The main camera has a 13-megapixel back-illuminated sensor, an f/2 lens and a flash, whilst the front-facing camera features an unusually high resolution of 8 megapixels for selfie enthusiasts. Other highlights include a 5-inch, 445ppi Full HD touchscreen, 'Voice Photo' function, quad-core 1.8GHz CPU, 2GB RAM, 16GB internal memory and a 2,500mAh battery. Running Android 4.4 KitKat, the Huawei Ascend P7 carriees a recommended retail price of €449.
The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II is a serious compact camera with a large 1.5-inch image sensor and fast 5x zoom lens. The G1 X Mk II also offers built-in wi-fi/NFC connectivity, 1080p HD video at 30fps with stereo sound, a 3 inch tilting touchscreen LCD, dual lens control rings, RAW files and a full range of manual shooting modes. Read our Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II review to find out if it's worth the £799 / €949 / $799.99 asking price...
The Sony A6000 is a new compact system camera that features the fastest auto-focusing system in the world. With a 24.3 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, 1080p HD movies, high-res 3 inch OLED screen, electronic viewfinder and built-in flash, the Sony NEX-6 also offers 11fps burst shooting, wi-fi and NFC connectivity, and downloadable PlayMemories Camera Apps. Read our full Sony A6000 review to find out if it's the best Sony NEX camera yet...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX60V is a new premium travel-zoom camera with a 30x zoom lens. The HX60V also features built-in wi-fi, NFC and GPS, full 1080p high-definition video with stereo sound, a 20 megapixel CMOS sensor, high-resolution 3-inch screen, manual shooting modes, 10fps continuous shooting, ISO range of 100-12800 and fast auto-focusing. Read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX60V review to find out if it's the best travel-zoom camera...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V is a new premium super-zoom compact camera. A 50x zoom lens, 20.4 megapixel CMOS sensor, 1920x1080 50p Full HD video with stereo sound, tilting 3-inch screen, 10fps continuous shooting, built-in Wi-Fi/NFC/GPS, and a full range of creative shooting modes are all offered by the Sony HX400V. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V review complete with sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 is a new superzoom compact camera with a incredible 63x zoom lens. The Sony H400 also features a 20 megapixel CCD sensor, 720p HD video with stereo sound, 3-inch screen, electronic viewfinder and a range of manual shooting modes. Read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 review to find out if it's the right super-zoom camera for you...
The A5000 is Sony's new entry-level compact system camera for 2014. The Sony A5000 is one of the smallest, lightest and cheapest mirrorless cameras on the market, featuring a 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, 1080i HD movies, 3 inch tilting screen, built-in wif-fi/NFC connectivity, and a pop-up flash. Read our in-depth Sony A5000 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files and movies...
The Fujifilm XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS is an affordable telephoto zoom lens for Fujifilm X-series compact system cameras. Offering a focal range of 76-350mm in 35mm terms, built-in image stabilisation, a compact and lightweight design, and fast and quiet auto-focusing, is the Fujifilm XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS a worthy addition to your X-system kit? Read our Fujifilm XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS review to find out...
The Sony Xperia Z2 is a new waterproof smartphone with 4K Ultra HD movie recording and digital noise cancelling technology. Other photography/videoraphy related features include a 20.7-megapixel camera module incorporating a 1/2.3-type CMOS image sensor and Sony G lens, SteadyShot image stabilisation technology, 5.2" Full HD screen and a new Movie Creator, allowing you to trim and crop your videos so that you can easily pick out what you want to share. The Xperia Z2 will launch globally from March 2014.
The NX30 is the new flagship model in Samsung's compact system camera range. The Samsung NX30 features a DSLR-like design, 3-inch swivelling AMOLED screen, tiltable electronic viewfinder, 1080p video recording at 60/50fps, built-in wi-fi and NFC connectivity, 9fps burst shooting, and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 20.3 megapixels. Read our in-depth Samsung NX30 review, complete with full-size sample images, to find out if this is Samsung's best ever compact system camera...
The Sony Cyber-shot HX400V is a premium super-zoom bridge camera with a 50x zoom lens. The Sony HX400V also offers a 20.4 megapixel Exmor RTM CMOS sensor, BIONZ X processor, DSLR-style handling, electronic viewfinder and manual controls, Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity and built-in GPS. The Sony Cyber-shot HX400V will be avilable in March for £420.
The Fujifilm X-T1 is a brand new compact system camera that looks, feels and performs very much like a classic DSLR that''s been shrunk in the wash. Is this the best X-series camera that Fujifilm have released, and can it compete with the likes of the Sony A7/A7R and Olympus OM-D E-M1, not to mention DSLRs from Canon and Nikon? Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T1 review to find out...
Sony's latest Full HD Handycam comes with a back-illuminated 1.0-type CMOS imager, high-bit-rate XAVC S recording and manual functions. The Sony Handycam CX900E boasts improved SteadyShot image stabilisation, high frame rate recording at 120fps, and a Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens that features a 7-bladed aperture. There’s a bright, high-contrast OLED electronic viewfinder for framing shots with a wide angle of view. A comfortably-placed Lens Ring and Manual Dial allow fingertip control of focus, zoom, exposure, gain/ISO and shutter speed. The camcorder can record high-bit rate Full HD footage at 50 Mbps using the XAVC S format, simultaneously with web-friendly MP4 for easy smartphone transfers and web uploads with its built-in NFC/Wi-Fi function.
The Sony A7 is the second mirrorless camera in the World to offer a full-frame sensor, but this time it's a slightly more modest 24 megapixels, rather than the A7R's 36 megapixels. The cheaper Sony A7 also offers a more innovative and potentially quicker hybrid AF system, faster flash sync and burst shooting speeds, and a quieter electronic shutter. Is the Sony A7 just as good as its big brother? Read our Sony A7 review to find out...
Big sensor in a small body - that's the USP of the new Sony A7R camera. Offering a 35mm full-frame sensor inside a relatively compact body that takes interchangeable lenses, the A7R is a truly unique and genuinely exciting proposition. Is the Sony A7R the ultimate fusion of DSLR technology and compact system camera size? Read our Sony A7R review to find out...
DxO Labs have released version 9.1 of its image processing software, DxO Optics Pro. This update enhances the application's PRIME denoising technology that restores the finest details in images even at the very highest sensitivities; provides support for eight new cameras; integrates the features of new DxO FilmPack v4.5 in plugin mode; and includes a new Export to Facebook option. This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 9, as well as for photographers who acquired a DxO Optics Pro license on or after 1 September 2013.
In the sixth part of our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide, we've selected our favourite smartphones, with something for every budget.
In the fifth part of our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide, we've selected our favourite Compact Cameras, with something for every budget.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 is a new premium super-zoom camera. Featuring a 28-200mm lens with a constant aperture of f/2.8, a 20.2 megapixel 1.0-type CMOS sensor, Full HD 60p/50p/25p/24p video recording, wi-fi and NFC connectivity and support for the Raw format and full manual controls, the Sony RX10 certainly seems to have every box ticked. Is this the best ever superzoom camera? Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 review to find out...
The Nikon D5300 is a new 24 megapixel mid-range DSLR camera with built-in wi-fi and GPS connectivity. The D5300 also offers 1080/50/60p video recording, ISO range of 100-25600, 5fps continuous shooting, a range of creative effects, 3.2 inch LCD screen, and a 39-point autofocus system. Read our in-depth Nikon D5300 review now...
In the second part of our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide, we've selected our favourite Compact System Cameras, with something for every budget.
The Olympus O-MD E-M1 is a new professional compact system camera. Targeting its DSLR rivals, Olympus are promoting the E-M1 as a smaller and more capable camera. Read our expert Olympus E-M1 review to find out if it really can beat the competition...
The Sony A3000 is an intriguing mix of mirrorless technology and DSLR styling. With a 20 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, 1080p HD movies, 3 inch LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder, could the Sony A3000 be the perfect step-up model for compact camera upgraders? Read our full Sony A3000 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files and movies, to find out...
AKVIS has updated three of its programs: Enhancer 14.0, Noise Buster v.9.0, Refocus v.4.0. New features and enhancements include the ability to quickly post pictures from the programs to Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Tumblr and Google+; improved raw image file processing; full compatibility with Adobe Photoshop CC, Adobe Photoshop Elements 12 and Corel PaintShop Pro X6; separate set-up files for 32-bit and for 64-bit versions of Windows; and a few bug fixes.
The Sony RX10 is a new bridge camera with a 20.2 megapixel 1.0-type back-illuminated CMOS imager and a 24-200mm (eq.) f/2.8 OSS lens. The newly developed Eye AF ensures crisp portraits with the sitter’s eye always in sharp focus, even if they’re not looking directly at you. Movie footage can be captured at selectable 50p (AVCHD progressive) or 25p frame rates, with full control over P/A/S/M exposure modes. A ‘clear’ HDMI output allows video to be reviewed on an external monitor or recorded to a separate storage device. With a high resolution of 1440k dots, the new high-contrast OLED Tru-Finder offers crisp edge-to-edge visibility of your subject, while the clear, bright 3.0" LCD tilts up or down for easy framing with the camera held high up or low down. On-board Wi-Fi allows easy one-touch connection with your NFC compliant Android smartphone or tablet. The compact, all-in-one Cyber-shot RX10 digital camera from Sony is available for pre-order now for £999, and goes on general sale in UK from mid-November.
The NEX-5T is the latest mid-range compact system camera from Sony. With a 16 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, 1080p HD movies, high-res 3 inch tilting screen and external flash, the Sony NEX-5T also features a touchscreen user interface, fast hybrid auto-focus, built-in wi-fi and NFC connectivity, downloadable PlayMemories Camera Apps and a new 16-50mm kit lens. Read our full Sony NEX-5T review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files, and movies...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX10 is a completely new type of device that adds a 10x zoom lens and 18 megapixel sensor to your smartphone. Priced at around £179 / $250, read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX10 review to find out if it's what every smartphone user has been waiting for...
Version 8.3.1 of DxO Optics Pro adds support for the Panasonic Lumix GF6 (pictured) and G6, Olympus PEN E-P5, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100, and Pentax K-50 II cameras. The program also benefits from many new DxO Optics Modules. 490 new camera/lens combinations have been added to the library, which now counts more than 14,000 modules. This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 8, as well as for all photographers who acquired a DxO Optics Pro 7 licence on or after 1 September 2012.
Sony is releasing the Application Program Interface (API) for remote operation of select Sony cameras with Wi-Fi-equipped smartphones and tablets.Using the app developed with this API, users will be able to shoot still images and movies, see real-time views of camera displays on the screens of compatible mobile devices , as well as operate the camera self-timer and zoom functions via Wi-Fi. Compatible Sony cameras and camcorders include the Sony NEX-6, NEX-5R, NEX-5T (pictured), Cyber-shot DSC-QX10 and QX100, The Action Cam HDR-AS30 and HDR-AS15, and the HDR-MV1 video recorder.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 is an exciting new compact system camera aimed firmly at keen photographers. With a built-in tilting electronic viewfinder, 16 megapixel sensor, 3 inch tilting LCD touchscreen, pop-up flash, 60/50p high-definition video, integrated wi-fi and NFC connectivity, both lens and in-body image stabilization, and a stylish design, is the GX7 the ultimate interchangeable lens camera? Read our expert Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 review to find out....
Last year's RX100 premium compact camera proved to be a runaway success for Sony - can the new Mark II version improve on the original? Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II review to find out...
The Sony A3000 is a budget-friendly 20.1-megapixel compact system camera with a 201,600-dot electronic viewfinder, an ergonomic hand-grip and an APS-C sized Exmor CMOS sensor. Compatible with the manufacturer's E mount lenses, the Sony A3000 weighs in at 411 grams including a battery, and features a Multi Interface Shoe that allows you to attach various accessories such as a powerful system flash, a video IR light or an external microphone. In addition to capturing 20-megapixel stills, the Sony A3000 is also capable of recording Full HD videos, with a choice of 50i or 25p shooting modes. The Sony A3000 is available to pre-order from the website below, with shipments expected to commence in September. The camera is priced at £370/$400.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT5 is a new freeze, shock, water and dust proof camera. The well-appointed Panasonic FT5 also features built-in GPS, wi-fi and NFC functionality, a compass, altimeter and barometer, 4.6x zoom, 1920x1080 full-HD movie recording and a 16 megapixel sensor. Read our Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT5 review to find out if this is the best do-it-all camera for your family....
The Samsung NX2000 is a new entry-level compact system camera with a lot of bells and whistles. Featuring a 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, full 1080p video, ISO 100-25,600, a 3.7-inch touchscreen, 8.6fps continuous shooting and Wi-fi / NFC connectivity, is this the best budget mirrorless camera? Read our Samsung NX2000 review to find out...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V is an affordable travel-zoom compact camera, with a 16x 24-384mm lens, built-in GPS tracking, full 1080i high-definition video with stereo sound, an 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, high-resolution 3-inch screen, manual shooting mode, 10fps continuous shooting, 3D photos, ISO range of 100-12800 and fast auto-focusing. Read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V review to find out if it's the right compact camera for you...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R is a new version of last year's RX1 with the optical low-pass filter removed, promising increased resolution but at the risk of increased moire effects. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R is otherwise identical to the RX1, featuring a 35mm Carl Zeiss prime lens with a fast maximum aperture of f/2, full 1080p high-definition video, high-resolution 3-inch screen, manual shooting modes, 5fps continuous shooting, ISO range of 50-25,600, and 14-bit raw support. Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R review to find out if it can improve on the original RX1...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX300 is an affordable travel-zoom compact camera. A 20x zoom lens, 18 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, 10fps continuous shooting, built-in wi-fi, Full HD movie recording and 500 shot battery life are all on offer. Priced at around £250 / $300, read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX300 review to find out if it lives up to its full promise.
The Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II is the first ever Sony camera to feature NFC connectivity. Succesor to the popular RX100, the new RX100 II compact camera has a 20.2 megapixel back-illuminated Exmor R 1.0-type CMOS sensor, Multi Interface Shoe and Multi Terminal accessory connections, a tiltable LCD screen, Full HD 24p/25p movie for cinematic video footage, plus built-in wi-fi. The Sony RX100 II will be available from mid-July 2013, priced at around £650 in the UK. The RX100 model will continue for the forseeable future.
New accessories inclue a grip for both the RX100 and RX100 II, the AG-R1, which will cost £10, the VFA-49R1 49mm lens filter adapter, and the LCJ-RXC leather case (£75).
The Sony HVL-F43M is a new flash gun for the latest cameras and interchangeable-lens camcorders equipped with Sony’s Multi Interface Shoe. Successor to the HVL-F43AM model, the HVL-F43M also doubles as a powerful LED video light for keen videographers. Price and availability of the Sony HVL-F43M are to be confirmed.
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...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50V is a new pocket camera with a massive 30x zoom lens. The HX50V also features built-in wi-fi and GPS tracking, full 1080p high-definition video with stereo sound, a 20 megapixel CMOS sensor, high-resolution 3-inch screen, manual shooting modes, 10fps continuous shooting, 3D photos, ISO range of 100-12800 and fast auto-focusing. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50V review to find out if it's the best travel-zoom camera...
The Sony A58 is a new SLT / DSLR camera with a 20 megapixel sensor, 8fps burst shooting, 25pFull HD movies, high-resolution viewfinder, 2.7-inch tilting LCD screen, OLED viewfinder and an ISO range of 100-16000, all for under £400 / $600 with a standard zoom lens. Read our in-depth Sony A58 review to find out if this budget interchangeable lens camera is worth a look...
The Samsung NX300 is a new mid-range compact system camera featuring a 20.3 megapixel APS-C sensor, hybrid AF system, 3.3-inch tilting AMOLED touchscreen, 8.6fps continuous shooting, Wi-fi and NFC connectivity, full 1080p video, and an ISO range 100-25,600. Read our in-depth Samsung NX300 review now...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300 is a new premium super-zoom compact camera. A 50x, 24-1200mm lens, a 20.4 megapixel CMOS sensor, 1920x1080 50p Full HD video with stereo sound, high-resolution tilting 3-inch screen, manual shooting mode, 10fps continuous shooting, and a full range of creative shooting modes are all offered by the HX300. Read our detailed Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300 review to find out if it's the right bridge camera for you.
Tamron USA is celebrating National Photo Month this May with its first Tamron Photo Scavenger Hunt. Participants will creatively photograph 14 clues and set-up an exhibit at MyPhotoExhibits.com by 31 May 2013. Tamron will pick the best overall exhibit based on image quality and creative interpretation of the clues. The winner will receive the award-winning Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD zoom lens. This contest is only open to adult residents of the USA. Click through / read on for the rules, including a list of the 14 clues.
Transcend has unveiled its next-generation 1000x Compact Flash cards designed specifically to meet the demands of professional photographers and video DSLR filmmakers. Transcend’s “Ultimate” series 1000x Compact Flash cards implement the CompactFlash revision 6.0 specification and operate in UDMA transfer mode 7, the fastest interface speed available for CF cards. Fully compliant with the Video Performance Guarantee (VPG-20) and boasting read/write transfer rates of up to 160MB/120MB per second, these cards are ideal for fast-action burst mode shooting. Transcend’s 1000x Compact Flash cards are now available in 16GB (US$99), 32GB (US$199), 64GB (US$379) and 128GB (US$699) capacities.
We had the oppotunity to try out the new Sony HX50 camera on the 38th floor of the iconic Gherkin building in central London. The HX50 is billed as "the world's smallest compact camera with a 30x optical zoom lens". Here are 42 sample JPEG photos taken with a pre-production version of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50 compact camera, including the full ISO range from 80-12,800. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50 is a premium compact camera with a 20.4 megapixel Exmor R sensor, 30x zoom lens (24-720mm), multi-interface accessory hotshoe, manual exposure modes, built-in wi-fi and Full 50p HD movie recording.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50 is the World’s smallest camera with a 30x zoom lens. In addition to the 24-720mm lens, the new Sony HX50 travel-zoom also boasts a 20.4-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, ISO range of 80-12,800, full P/A/S/M manual controls, built-in wi-fi connectivity, and Full HD (50p) movie recording capability. The HX50 has a dial to adjust exposure compensation plus a mode dial for other manual shooting settings, a Multi Interface Shoe for attaching a compatible electronic viewfinder, flash or microphone, and a Multi Terminal for using a remote controller. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50 will be available in the UK from May 2013 priced at around £350.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TF1 is an affordable compact camera that's freeze, shock, water and dust proof. The Sony TF1 has 16.1 megapixels, a 2.7 inch LCD screen, a 4x zoom lens and 720p HD movies. Read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TF1 review to find out if it's the ideal family camera.
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...
The Nikon Coolpix A is a new pocket camera for professionals. The Nikon A features the same 16 megapixel APS-C sensor as the D7000 DSLR, a 28mm f/2.8 lens, full manual controls, 1080p HD video recording, a high-resolution 3-inch LCD screen and 4fps burst shooting. Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix A review to find out if this justifies the £999.99 / $1099.95 price-tag...
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...
Phase One has released Capture One Express 7. Offering the essential tools to import, convert, organise, adjust, share and print superior-quality photographs in a fast, intuitive workflow; Capture One Express 7 includes many of the advanced features found in Capture One Pro 7, like noise reduction when shooting in low light, the ability to recover details in shadows and highlights, plus fast black-and-white conversions. Improved OpenCL support means faster image processing. New and improved adjustment tools - e.g. Clarity, HDR - offer greater control for more creative possibilities. Phase One Capture One Express 7 for Windows and Mac is available now for $99 or €69 through the Phase One online store.
Sigma has just introduced Version 5.5 of Sigma Photo Pro software. The update incorporates a new monochrome mode processing interface that features several new functions, including a channel-mixing palette, which allows users to control the level of red, green and blue within an image for better tonal separation and contrast. A new grain palette feature allows users to add or reduce the size and strength of grain within an image, producing a texture and dimension similar to that found in film photography. To download the latest Sigma PhotoPro software, visit the website below.
Sony introduces three new A-mount lenses plus A-mount and E-mount accessories. They include 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II telephoto zoom, Carl Zeiss Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM and DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM II standard zoom lenses, compact HVL-F20M flash and RM-VPR1 wired remote. The new Sony lenses and accessories will start to become available in the UK from March 2013.
The Sony Cyber-shot HX300, WX300, TX30 are three new power-packed compact cameras. The slim and super-stylish Sony WX300 is the world’s smallest and lightest camera with a 20x optical zoom, enhanced image stabilisation and speedy autofocus. The Sony HX300 has an ultra-powerful 50x optical zoom with DSLR-style handling and manual controls. The Sony TX30 is the world’s slimmest digital compact camera that’s waterproof up to 10m and freeze- and shock-proof.
The new Sony Cyber-shot HX300 will be available in the UK from March, and the WX300 and TX30 from April 2013, pricing to be announced.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 is the first ever compact camera with a 35mm full-frame sensor. Promising to combine high-end DSLR image quality with compact portability, the Sony RX1 also features a 35mm Carl Zeiss prime lens with a fast maximum aperture of f/2, full 1080p high-definition video, high-resolution 3-inch screen, manual shooting modes, 5fps continuous shooting, ISO range of 50-25,600, and 14-bit raw support. Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 review to find out if it's the best compact camera ever made...
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT4 is a freeze, shock, water and dust proof camera. The Panasonic FT4 also features a built-in GPS function, compass, altimeter and barometer. Read our Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT4 review to find out if this is the toughest camera around...
DxO Labs have announced the the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v8.1.2 for Mac and Windows. This update allows DxO Optics Pro 8 to support the Canon EOS 6D and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX1 full-format cameras (Elite Edition only), as well as the Nikon 1 V2. Furthermore, more than a hundred new camera/lens combinations have been added to the library, supporting additional Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Sony, Tamron and Tokina lenses for Canon, Nikon and Sony cameras. This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 8, as well as for photographers who purchased a DxO Optics Pro 7 licence on or after 1 September 2012.
The Nikon D5200 is a new mid-range DSLR camera with a 24 megapixel sensor, vari-angle LCD screen and 1080p HD movies. The D5200 also offers an ISO range of 100-25600, 5fps continuous shooting, a range of creative effects and a 39-point autofocus system. Read our in-depth Nikon D5200 review now...
Sony has unveiled its newest range of Handycam branded Full HD digital camcorders. This year’s models include the Handycam PJ780VE, PJ650VE (pictured), PJ420VE, PJ320E, CX410VE, CX280E and CX220E. Key features include Balanced Optical SteadyShot, enhanced wide-angle performance, new ‘Multi Terminal’ interface and upgraded audio with an expanded dynamic range. Three models - including the range-topping PJ780VE as well as the PJ650VE and PJ320E - incorporate built-in projectors with boosted light output and upgraded resolution. New camcorders above the HDR-PJ/CX400 series feature the ‘Multi Interface Shoe’, which accommodates accessories . including external microphones - that draw power from the camera. The new range of Sony Handycam HD camcorders will be available in the UK from February 2013.
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...
The NEX-6 is the latest compact system camera from Sony, slotting in between the mid-level NEX-5R and the top-of-the range NEX-7. With a 16 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, 1080p HD movies, high-res 3 inch OLED screen and built-in flash, the Sony NEX-6 also features 10fps burst shooting, wi-fi connectivity and downloadable PlayMemories Camera Apps. Read our full Sony NEX-6 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files, and movies, to find out if it's the best Sony NEX camera yet...
DxO Labs have released DxO Optics Pro v8.1. This update offers color management and sharpness enhancement when printing, an output option for reducing EXIF data, as well as numerous improvements to its interface. It also adds support for five new cameras including the Sony NEX-6 (pictured), the Canon PowerShot S110 and G15, and the Olympus Pen E-PM2 and E-PL5. Plus, the software now provides support for additional Canon, Olympus, and Sigma lenses for Canon, Olympus, and Sony cameras in the form of nearly 150 new DxO Optics Modules. This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 8, as well as for all photographers who purchased a license for DxO Optics Pro 7 after 1 September 2012.
The NEX-5R is the latest mid-range compact system camera from Sony. With a 16 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, 1080p HD movies, high-res 3 inch tilting screen and external flash, the Sony NEX-5R also features a touchscreen user interface, fast hybrid auto-focus, built-in wi-fi and downloadable PlayMemories Camera Apps. Read our full Sony NEX-5R review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files, and movies.
The Canon PowerShot S110 is a new compact camera that offers an extensive list of advanced features - ISO range of 80-12800, RAW support, full manual controls, built-in wi-fi, touchscreen interface and 1080p video - all in a slim and stylish body that you can easily fit in a trouser pocket. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot S110 review now to find out if this is the best premium compact.
We've selected our top camera picks for 2012's Holiday season, all the way from the cheapest digital compact up to the most expensive DSLR and everything in between. And we should know what to recommend - we've reviewed no less than 86 new cameras of all shapes and sizes so far in 2012. So no matter what your budget, make sure that you consult the Photography Blog Holiday Gift Guide for 2012 before splashing out your hard-earned cash on a new camera, whether that's either for yourself or a loved one!
The Nikon 1 J2 is the entry-level model in Nikon's range of compact system cameras. The new J2 adds a better screen, range of creative effects, textured grip and a lower price tag to its predecessor, the J1, which has been one of the best-selling compact system cameras of the last year. Read our in-depth Nikon 1 J2 review to find out if it can carry on where the J1 left off...
The Nikon Coolpix S800c is half compact camera, half smartphone, based upon Android, the world's most popular mobile platform. Featuring a 10x, 25-250mm lens and a 16 megapixel CCD sensor, the S800c also offers a 3.5 inch touch-screen OLED display, 1080p HD movies and wi-fi connectivity. Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix S800c review now to see if it really can replace your smartphone...
The Metz mecablitz 52 AF-1 digital is billed as the world’s first hotshoe-mounted flash with a touchscreen-based user interface. Available for Canon, Nikon, Olympus/Panasonic/Leica, Pentax and Sony, the Metz mecablitz 52 AF-1 digital has a tilt-swivel head with a motorised zoom to cover the angle-of-view range of a 24-105mm lens, offering a guide number of 52 (in metres at ISO 100/21°) at the 105mm position. The illuminated touchscreen display rotates by 90° to remain easily readable with the camera in portrait orientation. Other highlights include TTL and manual operation (the latter with no less than 22 partial lighting levels), servo flash mode, high-speed flash syncronisation, 1st and 2nd curtain sync, a maximum recycle time of 3.5 seconds, an integrated flip-out bounce card and wide-angle diffuser for 12mm coverage, a modelling light and a USB port for the easy installation of firmware updates. Availability and pricing have yet to be communicated.
Source: Metz via 1001 Noisy Cameras
We have collected the most interesting photography accessories - including innovative camera straps, filters, adapters, the world’s highest-capacity SDXC UHS-I card, and more - announced at this year’s Photokina.
SanDisk have confirmed that they will not be producing XQD flash memory cards. Speaking to Photography Blog at Photokina today, Susan Park, Director of Product Marketing, Retail Imaging, said that the market-leading company have instead chosen the CFast 2.0 standard for their future high-end cards.
Co-invented by SanDisk and the Compact Flash Association, the recently announced CFast 2.0 specification will provide a performance capability of up to 600MB/sec, meeting the needs of 2K/4K video which requires much faster speeds than the current Compact Flash specification allows for. A 100Gb file takes only 5 minutes to transfer at 350Mb/s - 20 minutes is more the norm with current CF cards.
SanDisk are working closely with camera manufacturers including Canon and Phase One, and sampling of the new CFast 2.0 cards has already begun, although because the new standard has a SATA interface, there are no cameras currently on the market that are compatible with the still-theoretical SanDisk CFast card.
We’re awaiting Nikon’s response to this news, as their flagship D4 DSLR is the only camera that actually uses the XQD format. Sony are currently the sole manufacturer of XQD cards, although Lexar did announce plans to support the format earlier in the year and are working on finalising their product.
We have spent some quality time with the brand new Nikon D600 full-frame digital SLR camera to deliver you a hands-on preview. You can read our initial impressions below.
Update: Since publishing this hands-on report, we have completed our full review of the Nikon D600.
The Sony Alpha SLT-A99 is a 35mm full-frame camera with a Dual AF system and pro-style video features. The Sony A99 has a newly developed 24.3 megapixel full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor, Dual AF System with 19 sensors (including 11 cross sensors) and 102 AF point system (focal plane), ISO 50-25600, Full HD 50p progressive movie shooting with non-stop Continuous AF and pro audio, and an XGA OLED Tru-Finder with 100% frame coverage. The Sony SLT-A99 is available from early November 2012 priced at around £2500.
The new 300mm F2.8 G SSM II (SAL300F28G2) lens is designed for demanding sports and wildlife applications. A new wide-aperture Carl Zeiss A-mount prime lens is now under development. Optimised for superb results with the camera’s 35mm full frame image sensor, the Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM will be available in Spring 2013.
The Sony NEX-6 is a new enthusiast compact system camera. The NEX-6 features a 16.1 megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, ISO 100-25600, Fast Hybrid AF for optimal fast and precise autofocus, 10fps burst shooting with continuous focusing, XGA OLED Tru-Finder, wi-fi connectivity, PlayMemories Camera Apps, a built-in flash and new Multi Interface Shoe. The Sony NEX-6 will be available from mid-November 2012 priced at around £710 body only, £830 with the new 16-50mm Power Zoom lens, and £1030 with the 16-50mm Power Zoom and the 55-210mm lenses.
The SELP1650 is an extremely light, compact 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 powered zoom lens, priced at £310 / $350. The SEL35F18 is a fast 35mm prime / fixed focal length lens with a bright maximum aperture of F1.8, costing £400 / $450. The SEL1018 is a super-wide angle zoom with a maximum aperture of F4 right across its 10-18mm range, retailing for £750 / $850. All three new lenses have Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation built-in.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 is the world’s first compact camera with a 35mm full-frame sensor. Featuring an Exmor CMOS sensor with 24.3 effective megapixels, the Sony RX1 has a Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm F2 prime lens, ISO range from ISO 100-25600, 5fps burst shooting, 14-bit RAW, and Full HD movies at 50p/60p or 25p/24p. The Sony DSC-RX1 will be available in December 2012 for around £2600 / $2800.
The Sony NEX-VG900 is the first Handycam with a 35mm full-frame sensor. The VG900 has a 24.3 megapixel Exmor full-frame CMOS sensor, Full HD 50p/25p/24p progressive movie recording, XGA OLED Tru-Finder, 3 inch XtraFine touch panel LCD and is compatible with full-frame A-mount lenses via a supplied adaptor. The Sony NEX-VG900 will be available in November for around £3000 / $3,300.
The NEX-VG30 has a 16.1 Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor and can shoot Full HD video footage at either 50p, 25p or 24p. Available in December, the Sony VG30 costs $1800 body-only or $2700 with the new E PZ 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS Power Zoom lens.
Sony have launched no less than 10 new digital imaging products today, including three 35mm full-frame cameras. They are the:
- NEX-6, A99, DSC-RX1 cameras
- NEX-VG900, NEX-VG30 camcorders
- 10-18mm, 16-50mm Power Zoom, 35mm f1.8 (all E-mount), 300mm f2.8, Planar T 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM full-frame lenses
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...
Sigma Corporation of America has announced availability and pricing for the 15.3x3-megapixel Sigma DP1 Merrill large-sensor compact camera. Going on sale in mid-September at an estimated street price of $999, the raw-capable Sigma DP1 Merrill boasts a totally redesigned 19mm (28mm eq.) f/2,8 lens with moulded-glass aspherical elements, “F” Low Dispersion and Super Multi Layer coating, and a telecentric optical design.
The Sony NEX-5R is a new compact system camera with Fast Hybrid AF, Wi-Fi and PlayMemories Camera Apps. The NEX-5R offers 16.1 effective megapixels, DSLR-like AF tracking for shooting at up to 10fps, built-in Wi-Fi with PlayMemories Camera Apps, and a 180° tiltable LCD touchscreen. The Sony NEX-5R compact system camera is available in the UK from mid-October 2012 in silver, black or white for around £670 with the 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS kit lens. In the US, the camera body will be available for around $650, and the NEX-5R+18-55mm lens kit will retail for ~$750.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX7 is the latest premium compact camera hoping to find a place in a professional photographer's pocket. With the fastest lens of any compact to date, the LX7 also offers an improved 10 megapixel sensor, full 1080p HD movies and an even better control system than the previous LX5 model. Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX7 review with sample JPEG, RAW and video files now.
The Samsung NX1000 is a new wallet-friendly mirrorless camera aimed at beginners upgrading from a simpler compact. Featuring a 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, full 1080p video, ISO 100-12,800, a 3-inch AMOLED screen, 8fps continuous shooting and Wi-fi connectivity, read our in-depth Samsung NX200 review to discover if this is the best budget compact system camera.
Sony has just unveiled the newest addition to its XDCAM HD4:2:2 line – the PMW-200 Full HD camcorder. Billed as the only professional handheld camcorder in its class with three 1/2”-type Exmor CMOS sensors and full HD 4:2:2 50Mbps recording, the Sony XDCAM PMW-200 has two high-speed SxS memory card slots. Developed specifically for professional content creation applications, these cards offer high transfer rates as well as resistance to shocks and vibrations. The PMW-200 camcorder is armed with a 14x zoom lens with auto-focus and image stabilisation. The lens is also equipped with three independent rings for zoom, focus and iris adjustment. The Sony PMW-200 is expected to be available in September for a suggested list price of $7,790.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 is an exciting new premium compact camera. A large "1.0-type" 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, 3.6x 28-100mm lens with a fast maximum aperture of F1.8, full 1080p high-definition video with stereo sound, high-resolution 3-inch screen, manual shooting modes, 10fps continuous shooting, ISO range of 100-12800, Raw support and fast auto-focusing are all present and correct. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 review to find out if it's the best pocket camera ever...
The Samsung NX200 is a new mirrorless compact system camera that aims for the middle ground between the more DSLR-like NX20 and consumer-oriented NX1000 models. Featuring a 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, full 1080p video, ISO 100-12,800, a 3-inch AMOLED screen, 8fps continuous shooting and new Wi-fi connectivity, read our in-depth Samsung NX200 review to discover if this is the right camera for you.
The NEX-F3 is Sony's new entry-level compact system camera. With a 16 megapixel APS-C sensor, 1080i HD movies, high-res 3 inch tilting screen and built-in flash, the NEX-F3 certainly has a lot to offer. Read our in-depth Sony NEX-F3 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files and movies.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V is a new premium travel-zoom compact camera. A 20x 25-500mm lens, built-in GPS tracking, full 1080i high-definition video with stereo sound, an 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, high-resolution 3-inch screen, manual shooting mode, 10fps continuous shooting, 3D photos, ISO range of 100-12800 and fast auto-focusing are all present and correct. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V review to find out if its the best travel camera that your money can buy...
The Fujifilm FinePix Z1000EXR is a stylish new compact camera, sporting a 3.5-inch touchscreen, 16 megapixels, 1080p HD video, wi-fi connectivity and a 5x optical zoom lens. Read our detailed Fujifilm FinePix Z1000EXR review to find out if it's all style and no substance...
The new Sony XQD S Series memory card is faster than the maximum speed limit of Compact Flash. Offering actual sustained read/write transfer speeds of 168MB/s, XQD surpasses the 167 MB/s maximum interface speed limit of Compact Flash. On the Nikon D4 DSLR, the XQD S Series captures a non-stop burst of 108 RAW frames at 10fps, enough to record the men’s 100m final from start to finish in one burst. The XQD S Series memory card will be available in 64GB capacity from July 2012. A 32GB card will also be available later in 2012.
The NX20 is the new flagship model in Samsung's compact system camera range. The Samsung NX20 features a DSLR-like design, 3-inch swivelling AMOLED screen, high-res electronic viewfinder, 1080p video recording, built-in wi-fi connectivity and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 20.3 megapixels. Read our in-depth Samsung NX20 review, complete with 40 JPEG and 20 RAW samples.
The Nikon D800E is a 36 megapixel full-frame sensor DSLR with the anti-aliasing filter removed, which should result in higher resolution, sharper images compared to the regular D800. The D800E also offers 1080p HD video, a 3.2-inch LCD screen and a viewfinder with 100% coverage. Read our in-depth Nikon D800E review to find out if you should choose it instead of the D800.
The Nikon D800 is one of the hottest DSLR cameras for 2012. Featuring a remarkable 36 megapixel full-frame sensor, the D800 also offers 1080p HD video, a 3.2-inch LCD screen and a viewfinder with 100% coverage. Read our in-depth Nikon D800 review to find out if it's worth the £2499.00 / $2,999.95 cost of admission.
Olympus have expanded their Micro Four Thirds family with the launch of the OM-D E-M5. Boasting the World's fastest autofocus system, the E-M5 brings the original design ethos of the 1970's film OM series kicking and screaming into the 21st century. Read our expert Olympus E-M5 review to find out if it's the best compact system camera on the market.
Getty Images has released its newly redesigned The Curve: Technology and Telecommunications, a multimedia research report on visual trends shaped by the “democratisation” of technology and the rise of social media. No longer a static landing page, this updated presentation of The Curve features a dynamic, changing interface of industry findings that permits commentary and collaboration from readers as well. The first issue of The Curve centred on social photography is now live, and the second issue - slated to go live later this month - will examine connectivity, identity and creativity providing insight on the cloud, content management, the personal information economy and more. To read the first issue, visit the website below.
XPro Software has posted a release candidate of GeniuX Photo EFX 3. Boasting a 32 bit colour graphics engine, GeniuX Photo EFX 3 ensures smooth tonal gradations with no dithering artifacts, supports a number of camera raw formats as well as PSD files created with Adobe Photoshop, and offers real-time corrections and short processing times. You can download the release candidate free of charge by clicking on the link below.
The Nikon D4 is a new DSLR camera that will be widely used by the pros at this year's London Olympic Games. With the sort of specification that mere mortals can only dream of, the Nikon D4 has an eye-watering price-tag to match, so read our in-depth Nikon D4 review to find out just how good it is.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 is a new compact system camera aimed firmly at frustrated compact owners who want a faster, better performing camera that's still small and stylish. The GF5 certainly fits that bill, with fast 0.09 second auto-focusing, a 12 megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, 1080i HD video, touchscreen interface and 4fps burst shooting. Read the World's first Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 review to find out if this is the perfect interchangeable lens camera for beginners...
Sony has scooped up three TIPA awards. The Sony A65 has been named the Best Advanced DSLR of the year, the Best Expert CSC title has been awarded to the Sony NEX-7, while the new XQD memory cards have won the ‘Best Imaging Storage’ Media award. On the latter, the jury commented, “Sony’s XQD Memory Cards are made for the demanding needs of today’s pro still and DSLR videographers. Offering read/write speeds of up to 125 MB per second (currently, when used with the Nikon D4), the card can record approximately 100 raw images in continuous shooting mode.”
Review: Read our in-depth review of the Sony A65
Review: Read our in-depth review of the Sony NEX-7
The long-awaited Canon EOS 5D Mark III DSLR has finally arrived, boasting improvements to virtually every aspect of its popular predecessor, the breakthrough 5D Mark II. It's cost has also increased significantly, so does the new 5D Mark III offer enough to justify the £2999 / $3499 asking price? Read our detailed Canon EOS 5D Mark III review to find out.
The Pentax K-01 is a new compact system camera with a uniquely distinctive design. The K-01 has a 16 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen, 1080p movies, ISO range of 100-25600 and full manual controls. Read our in-depth Pentax K-01 review to find out what we thought of this daring entry into the competitive mirrorless camera market...
Sony has introduced seven new digital compact cameras, including the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V, HX10V, WX100, HX200V, TX20, W690 and H90. The first four models boast Sony’s new 18.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, while the other three come equipped with 16-megapixel imagers. The flagship of the new Cyber-shot range is the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V, which sports a newly designed, compact Advanced Aspherical (AA) lens with 20x optical zoom and fast auto focus, as well as a built-in GPS module. Other cameras with “AA” lenses include the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX100, which is billed as the world’s smallest camera with 10x optical zoom, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W690, another 10x zoom model. The longest (30x) zoom is found on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V (pictured), which additionally features high-speed AF, 3D shooting and Full HD 50p video. The TX series is joined by the 4x zoom Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20, an ultra-slim and stylish yet tough little shooter that is dust- and freezeproof, as well as waterproof down to a depth of 5m and shockproof to 1.5m. Finally, the HX10V and H90 both sport 16x zoom lenses, with the main differences being the slightly different pixel count and a higher-resolution screen and GPS module in the HX10V.
Sigma has renamed its flagship digital SLR camera to Sigma SD1 Merrill, in honour of Foveon’s founding father, Richard B. Merrill. The rebranding was initiated by Sigma’s new CEO, Kazuto Yamaki, who wrote “a personal letter to the company’s loyal customers” announcing the name change and a reduction of the camera’s MSRP to $3,300. Given the typically huge difference between Sigma’s suggested retail prices and the actual retail pricing of their products, this means you can realistically expect to be able to purchase the Sigma SD1 Merrill for about $2,300 - which is a massive price drop considering that the camera used to sell for about $6,900.
Sony is expanding its range of SD cards with a new flagship UHS-I series. The Sony UHS-I cards offer significantly higher transfer speeds up to 94MB/s (read) and 45MB/s and maintain Class 10 speed when used with non-UHS-I supported hardware. Available in capacities of 32GB (SF-32UX), 16GB (SF-16UX) and 8GB (SF-8UX), the Sony UHS-I SD cards will be available in March, starting at $44.99.
The X-Pro1 is Fujifilm’s first compact system camera, and we saw an almost-complete prototype, one of only two in the world, at Fujifilm UK’s HQ back in December 2011. This is our detailed preview of the Fujiflm X-Pro1’s design, features and accessories.
The Sony NEX-7 is a new compact system camera with a long list of photographer-friendly features. Offering a 24.3 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, 1080p HD movies, high-res 3 inch tilting screen, 10fps burst shooting, built-in electronic viewfinder and pop-up flash, the NEX-7 seems to be on paper at least a very exciting proposition. Read our full Sony NEX-7 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files, and movies, to find out if this is the ultimate compact system camera...
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 is a new compact system camera for enthusiast photographers. With a 16 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen, built-in flash, 1080i high-definition video, new power-zoom kit lens and a wealth of shooting modes, is the GX1 the best portable interchangeable lens camera? Read our Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 review to find out....
The Samsung NX200 is a new mirrorless compact system camera that aims for the middle ground between the DSLR-like NX10/11 and consumer-oriented NX100 models, designed to appeal to beginners and prosumers alike. Sporting a 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, full 1080p video, ISO 100-12,800, a 3-inch AMOLED screen and 7fps continuous shooting, the NX200 certainly seems to have what it takes to challenge the ever-expanding number of competitors. Read our expert Samsung NX200 review to find out if it can deliver on its promise...
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 2011 before splashing out your hard-earned cash.
Tiffen has updated its Dfx filter suite to add compatibility with Avid Media Composer v6, Symphony v6, and NewsCutter v10, as well as support for a number of new (and older) Sony digital cameras. The newly supported models include the A550, A580, A700, A850, A900, NEX-3, NEX-5, NEX-5N, NEX-C3, SLT-A33, A35, A55, A65 and A77. There is also a new adjustable brush slider that covers large areas, and new blur controls for theDfx Paint Mask tool that gives more control over blending and transitioning. The Tiffen Dfx 3 photo plug-in, which is compatible with Photoshop, Lightroom and Aperture, is available today at an introductory price of $199.95. The standalone version of Tiffen Dfx retails for $169.95.
We sat down with Barney Sykes, Panasonic UK Product Manager for Lumix G, and Michiharu Uematsu, Panasonic Japan’s Advanced Planning Manager for Products Planning Group, to discuss the new Panasonic GX1 compact system camera.
The NEX-5N is the fourth compact system camera from Sony, featuring a significant number of improvements to the previous NEX-5 model. With a 16 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, 1080p HD movies, high-res 3 inch tilting screen and external flash, the NEX-5N also adds a touchscreen user interface, faster auto-focus and reduced shutter-lag. Read our full Sony NEX-5N review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files, and movies, to find out if this is the best NEX camera yet...
The Nikon 1 J1 is the junior member of Nikon's new range of compact system cameras, featuring a smaller and lighter body at a cheaper price than the V1 model. Based around the same "CX" format sensor, the Nikon J1 is still all about pure speed, with fast auto-focusing and up to 60fps continuous shooting. The J1 also offers a built-in pop-up flash, 3 inch LCD screen, full HD video, and a range of innovative modes like Smart Photo Selector and Motion Snapshot. Read our in-depth Nikon 1 J1 review.
The Olympus E-PM1 is one of the smallest, lightest and arguably sexiest compact system cameras currently on the market. Also known as the PEN Mini, the svelte EPM1 boasts the World's fastest autofocus system, a 3 inch LCD display, new 12.3 megapixel Live MOS sensor, full 1080i HD movie mode with stereo sound, and an extensive range of creative filters. Read our in-depth Olympus E-PM1 review to find out if it's the perfect upgrade from your run-of-the-mill compact.
Having already posted a number of hands-on photos of the Nikon 1 V1 and Nikon 1 J1 cameras and their accessories, it’s now time to share with you our first impressions of the system, based on our limited but intensive use of both cameras and a couple of lenses at the launch event.
The Nikon 1 V1 is a new compact system camera with a 10-megapixel CMOS sensor and a high-resolution integrated electronic viewfinder. Featuring a 13,2x8,8mm imager with a “crop factor” of approximately 2.7, the Nikon 1 V1 weighs in at 383 grams including battery and memory card. The new Nikon 1 V1 also boasts an ultra-fast AF system as well as pre- and post-capture modes that help you avoid missed moments. The Nikon 1 V1 will be available in a kit with the new 10-30mm zoom for $899.95 / £829.99 / €962.00, starting mid-October.
The Nikon 1 J1 is an even smaller camera with a built-in flash, but no electronic viewfinder or Multi-Accessory Port. Both the Nikon 1 J1 and its lenses come in a variety of matching stylish colors, including white, pink, red, silver and black. The Nikon J1 offers the same core features as the more expensive V1 at a more affordable $649.95 / £549.99 / €638.00 with the 10-30mm zoom lens.
Along with the new cameras comes a new range of lenses and accessories, designed specifically for the Nikon 1 system. The lenses include a 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6, 30-110mm f/3.8 -5.6, 10mm f/2.8 and 10-100mm f4.5-5.6 PD-ZOOM, with future 1 NIKKOR lenses already in development. The Nikon 1 range of optional system accessories includes a SB-N5 Speedlight flash, GP-N100 GPS unit, and FT-1 mount adapter for attaching any NIKKOR DSLR lens (all AF-S and AF-I NIKKOR lenses are compatible with the Nikon 1 autofocus system).
Jean-baptiste Faudeux is the lucky winner of a new Sony DSC W570 digital camera, courtesy of Photography Blog and Idealo.
With its 5x optical zoom, Carl Zeiss lens, 2.7 inch screen and 16.1 mega-pixel camera, the Sony camera offers a simple to use interface and hassle-free portability, all encased in stylish brushed aluminium. For those who want to read our full review, it can be found here. If you aren’t lucky enough to win the camera, a quick price check shows it can be had in the UK for around £125; in the US as if often the case, the price is a little lower.
Idealo offers a wide selection of products to compare on everything related to photography, be it digital cameras, SLRs, tripods or bags. The price comparison search engine collates the latest prices from the largest e-commerce sites in the United Kingdom, allowing an easy overview of where the best photography deals can be found. Furthermore, as the results automatically include any available voucher codes to further reduce the overall cost, it saves the extra hassle of having to search for a discount after getting to the payment page of a chosen shop.
The Sony NEX-5N is a new compact system camera with a resolution of 16.1 megapixels, responsive auto focus, world’s shortest shutter lag and 1080p/50fps video recording capability. Doubled signal readout speeds and more efficient processing have resulted in an AF that is significantly faster than the current NEX-5 model, Sony claims. Maximum sensitivity is also boosted to ISO 25600, the highest among mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras. Stereo audio quality is improved, with revised circuitry that lowers wind noise levels, especially when shooting quiet scenes. Like the also-new Sony NEX-7, the NEX-5N offers a speed priority mode in which the camera can capture full-resolution photographs at up to 10fps. Unlike that camera, the Sony NEX-5N has no eye-level EVF and comes with a Photo Creativity Touch interface rather than the wheel-and-dial-based UI of the higher specified model. Priced at $600, the NEX-5N will be available from September. The camera will also be offered in a kit with the existing Sony E 18-55mm zoom lens, for about $700.
In the UK, the Sony NEX-5N will be available in a bundle with either the Sony E 18-55mm or the Sony E 16mm f/2.8 lens from September, priced at £600 and £700 respectively. A double-zoom kit, comprising the Sony NEX-5N camera body and the 18-55mm as well as the new 55-210mm lens, will be offered from November for £800. Sony UK is not planning to sell the NEX-5N as a body-only option.
The NEX-C3 is the third compact system camera from Sony, offering a number of refinements over the previous NEX-3 model. With a 16 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, 720p HD movies, high-res 3 inch tilting screen and external flash, the NEX-C3 also adds a range of Picture Effects, a refined user interface, and longer battery life. Read our in-depth Sony NEX-C3 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files, and movies.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ48 is a new super-zoom compact camera with a 24x optical zoom lens. Other standout features of the FZ48 include a 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor, Sonic Speed AF, manual operation, 1920 x 1080 full-HD video recording, 3D Photo mode and new Creative Controls with Miniature Effect mode. Pricing and availability of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ48 are still to be announced.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 is a new Compact System Camera designed to appeal to frustrated compact users looking to upgrade to something better but not necessarily bigger. Combining an innovative touch-screen interface with a simple control layout, tiny body and DSLR-like image quality and features, does the GF3 deliver both the portability of a compact and the professionalism of a DSLR? Read the World's First Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 Review to find out...
The Samsung SH100 is an affordable compact camera offering built-in Wi-fi for easy connectivity to a variety of devices. The SH100 also has a 14 megapixel sensor, 3 inch touch-screen LCD, wide-angle 5x zoom lens and 720p movie recording. Read our Samsung SH100 review to find out if this is the right compact for you...
Billed as the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable-lens camera with an APS-C sized sensor, the new Sony NEX-C3 is a tiny compact system camera offering a resolution of 16.2 megapixels. Weighing in at 225 grams, the Sony NEX-C3 is approximately 6% lighter than last year’s NEX-3. In addition to capturing high-resolution photographs, the NEX-C3 can also record 720p HD video. A new in-camera ‘Picture Effect’ setting lets users add extra impact to stills or HD video during shooting. Options include Partial Colour, Retro Photo, Pop Colour, High Contrast Monochrome, Posterisation, High-key and Toy Camera. There’s also a ‘Soft Skin’ effect that removes wrinkles and blemishes from portrait subjects. Improved energy efficiency boosts battery stamina to 400 still shots per charge – over 20% more than the NEX-5/NEX-3. The new NEX-C3 will be available this August in silver, black and pink with an 18-55mm kit zoom and will cost about $650. It will also be offered in black only with a 16mm lens for about $600.
Sigma has announced the availability and pricing of the Sigma SD1 digital SLR camera, whose first prototypes were shown at the Photokina trade show held last autumn. Featuring a new, 15x3-megapixel Foveon x3 sensor and a splash-proof body, the Sigma SD1 provides “high-end photographers with an alternative to very expensive medium-format cameras and digital backs”, the company says. The imaging chip has approximately 15.3 million photosites and three vertically stacked colour filters for a resolution that is claimed to equal that of an imaginary 46-megapixel Bayer sensor. In addition to the resolution hike, sensor size has also increased from 20.7x13.8mm in the SD15 and its predecessors to 23.5x15.7mm in the current model. The Sigma SD1 features a 3” rear screen with a resolution of 460,000 dots and an autofocus system with 11 shifted twin cross type AF points. Available from June, the Sigma SD1 will sell for an MSRP of $9,700.00 in the USA. The UK price is £6,199.99 including VAT.
Eka Technologies have announced the FotoSpot and FotoMapr geo-tagging peripherals for Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Ricoh and other digital cameras. FotoSpot ($249-$329) provides consumers with an easy-to-use, inexpensive way to add the photo location and shot direction to images created with virtually any digital camera. Photos geotagged with FotoSpot can then be uploaded to a computer via USB and used with any of today’s popular PC, Mac and Internet photo mapping software. The professional FotoMapr is a cost-effective way (starting at $269) for advanced photographers to geotag - and even annotate - images for use in their mapping platforms. Both FotoSpot and FotoMapr are available in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and hard-wired versions. For stockist information, visit the website below.
The NX11 is the third model in Samsung's compact system camera range, adding compatibility with the innovative iFunction, which allows you to change key camera settings using the focus ring on the lens. The Samsung NX11 also features a DSLR-like design, 3 inch AMOLED screen, electronic viewfinder, 720p video and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 14.6 megapixels. Read our in-depth Samsung NX11 review, complete with 40 JPEG and 15 RAW samples.
The Lumix DMC-FT3 is Panasonic's new all-action digicam for 2011. Successor to the very good FT2 model that we reviewed last year, the Panasonic FT3 offers improved freeze, shock, water and dust proof capabilities, plus a built-in GPS function, compass, altimeter and barometer. Read our Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 review to find out if this is the tough camera for you.
The Sony MRW-F3 is a compact memory card reader, which can be used to transfer photos and videos from a Memory Stick or SD memory card to a PC or play them back on a Sony Bravia TV. The F3 features a simple, single card slot that can accept a wide range of Memory Stick, SD and MMC media formats, including higher-capacity SDXC cards or high-speed UHS-I SD cards. This memory card reader is joined by the MRW-EA7, MRW-S2 and MRW-T2 that connect to any spare USB port via a short cable connection. The new range of memory card readers by Sony is available now.
DxO Optics Pro v6.5.4 adds support for the Olympus E-PL2, Panasonic LX5 and Sony A580, and 69 new DxO Optics modules. DxO Optics Pro Standard edition costs $169 / 149 € / £ 99, and the Elite edition $299 / 299 € / £ 199. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since June 1st, 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.5.4.
The Panasonic DMC-TZ20 and DMC-TZ18 are two new travel-zoom compact cameras. The TZ20 and TZ18 (also known as the Panasonic ZS10 and ZS8) both offer a 16x optical zoom lens, 14.1 megapixel MOS sensor, 3 inch LCD screen, HD movies, and manual controls. The TZ20 additionally offers a higher-resolution 460,000-dot touchscreen, full 1080i HD movies, a 3D Photo mode, and an improved GPS system. Pricing and availability of the DMC-TZ20 and DMC-TZ18 are still to be announced.
The Panasonic DMC-FX77 is a new stylish and compact hybrid digital camera. The FX77 (also known as the Panasonic FX78) features Smart Touch operation on a 3.5-inch LCD screen, 24mm ultra wide angle 5x optical zoom lens with F2.5 brightness, 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor, 1920 x 1080 full-HD movie recording, 3D Photo Mode and 3.7 fps burst shooting. The price and availability of the Panasonic DMC-FX77 are still to be announced.
The Panasonic DMC-FT3 is a new rugged digital compact camera. The 12.1 megapixel FT3 (also known as the Panasonic TS3) is waterproof to 12m, shockproof to 2m, freezeproof to -10 degrees C and dustproof. The FT3 also has a 4.6, 28mm wide-angle zoom lens, 1920 x 1080 full-HD movie recording, 3D photo Mode, GPS functionality, a compass, altimeter and even a barometer. The price and availability of the Panasonic DMC-FT3 are still to be announced.
Eye-Fi announced its new Direct Mode at CES. “Leveraging a combination of new technology in Eye-Fi cards and new Eye-Fi mobile apps, Direct Mode enables consumers to bring together the imaging quality of a digital camera and the connectivity of a smartphone or tablet in an unprecedented way,” the company said in a statement. With Direct Mode, photos taken with your digital camera can immediately be sent to your smartphone or tablet. They can be viewed and edited with third-party aops, or uploaded and shared. Direct Mode will be available as a free upgrade to all Eye-Fi X2 cards later in 2011.
DxO Labs have just released DxO Optics Pro v6.5.2 for Mac and Windows that adds raw file support in both its Standard and Elite editions for the Pentax K-5 (pictured), plus the Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3. Further, 50 new DxO Optics Modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, covering numerous Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony cameras. DxO Optics Pro v6.5.2 for Windows and Mac, Standard and Elite editions are available from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers at a 30% holiday season discount until 25th December.
DxO Optics Pro v6.5.1 adds support for the Nikon D7000 and Sony A390 and 120 new DxO Optics modules. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since June 1st, 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.5. DxO Optics Pro v6.5.1 for Windows and Mac, Standard and Elite editions, is now available at a significant 30 percent holiday season discount until December 25, 2010.
Nikon, Sandisk and Sony have announced the joint development of a set of specifications that address the future requirements of professional photography and video markets. The proposed specifications achieve data transfer rates of up to 500 megabytes per second (theoretical maximum interface speed). The increased speeds will enable imaging and video applications that could not be accomplished using the current CompactFlash specification’s PATA interface. For comparison CF6.0, released in November 2010, offers maximum performance of up to 167MB/sec. The new specifications’ faster speeds enable continuous burst shooting of massive RAW images. The enhanced performance also allows users to quickly transfer storage-intensive high-resolution photos and videos from the card to a computer.
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.
The hot-off-the-press Lumix DMC-GF2 takes Panasonic's range of Compact System Cameras into uncharted territory. The GF2 is clearly reaching out to frustrated compact camera users by combining a mature touch-screen interface with a simplified control layout, tiny body and DSLR-like image quality and features. Does the GF2 achieve the perfect balance between the portability of a compact and the professionalism of a DSLR? Read the World's First Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Review to find out...
Today marks the UK launch of the Sony Bloggie Touch Full HD pocket camcorder. The new Bloggie Touch has a 3-inch capacitive touch screen that automatically adjusts for vertical or horizontal shooting and viewing, enabling its users to shoot video right-handed, left-handed, right-side-up or even upside-down. Equipped with an f/2.8 wide-angle lens, 8GB of memory and a sensitive Exmor CMOS sensor, the Bloggie Touch has SteadyShot image stabilisation for smoother footage and a built-in USB arm for easy charging and uploading to a computer.
The new NX100 is Samsung's answer to the Panasonic GF, Olympus PEN and Sony NEX - a mirrorless, compact system camera with interchangeable lenses and the attraction of a large APS-C sensor. As well as being smaller and lighter than the more DSLR-like NX10 model, the NX100 offers an innovative i-Function button which allows you to change the camera's key settings simply by pressing a button and turning the focus ring of the lens. With a retail price of around £449.99 / $599.99 with the new 20-50mm kit lens, the Samsung NX100 also offers fantastic value for money. Read our Samsung NX100 review to find out if it's the real deal...
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.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 is the World’s smallest and lightest compact system camera. Successor to the popular GF1, the new 12 megapixel Panasonic GF2 is 19% smaller in size and 7% less in weight than than its predecessor. The DMC-GF2 has a touch control 460,000-dot LCD screen and a new Graphic User Interface (GUI) and full HD movies at 1920 x 1080 at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) in AVCHD format. Available in black, silver and, red, pink and white, in the UK the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 will be available in January 2011 with either the 14-42mm lens for £599.99, 14mm lens for £629.99 or a 14-42m / 14mm twin lens kit for £729.99.
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.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX7 is a slim and stylish digital compact camera. The TX7 offers a 10 megapixel back-illuminated Exmor-R sensor, 3.5 inch touch-sensitive LCD screen, innovative Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode, 1080i HD movies with stereo sound, 10fps burst mode, a 4x zoom lens, and an ISO range of 125-3200. Read our in-depth Sony TX7 review to find out if it can justify its £380 / $299 price-tag.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9 is a slim, stylish and full-featured digital compact camera. The TX9 has a 12 megapixel back-illuminated Exmor-R sensor, 3.5 inch touch-sensitive LCD screen, innovative 3D Sweep Panorama mode, 1080i HD movies with stereo sound, 10fps burst mode, a 4x zoom lens, and an ISO range of 125-3200. Read our in-depth Sony TX9 review to find out if it can justify its £380 / $399 price-tag.
The Fujifilm FinePix Z800EXR is a fashion-concious compact camera with a massive touchscreen LCD, 12 megapixel EXR sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens. The Z800EXR also features a hybrid auto-focus system that switches between traditional contrast AF and a quicker phase detection AF system, as used in DSLR cameras and its big brother, the F300EXR. Read our in-depth Fujifilm FinePix Z800EXR review to find out if it's the perfect match of form and function...
A new firmware update for the Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras will be available from mid-October. A new custom function allows assignment to buttons of frequently-used functions, which should address some of our main criticisms of the NEX interface, plus there’s a new function to record movies with a specific aperture. Autofocus operation will be supported when using A-mount SAM and SSM lenses with the optional LA-EA1 Mount Adaptor. In addition Sony are planning 7 new E-mount lenses and a flashgun for 2011 and 2012.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 is a new 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds camera with extremely fast contrast-detect autofocus and a multi-aspect LiveMOS sensor.. Featuring an intuitive touch control for setting the active focus point, the new Panasonic GH2 boasts focusing times as low as 0.1 second at the wide end of the 14-140mm lens. To match the multi-aspect sensor in the GH2, Panasonic has also developed a multi-aspect EVF with a resolution of 1.53 million dots, a magnification of 1.42x, and 100% frame coverage. In addition to capturing 16-megapixel stills, the GH2 also offers Full HD video recording at variable frame rates including cine standard 24fps with a bit rate of up to 24Mbps. Along with the Lumix GH2, Panasonic also unveiled three new lenses, including a wide 14mm f2.5 pancake, a 100-300mm super-telezoom and a 12.5mm 3D lens. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 will cost £899.99 with the 14-42mm lens and £1299.99 with the 14-140mm lens.
The Nissin MF18 is a feature-rich ring flash with a guide number of 16 in metres at ISO 100/21°. Featuring wireless functionality, high speed sychronisation and a My TTL custom setting, the Nissin MF18 comes with macro lens mount adapters ranging from 39mm to 77mm. It has a colour display that will automatically rotate from horizontal to vertical as the flash is rotated, while the user friendly six-icon interface gives access to all modes of operation including Auto, TTL, Manual, Multi, Wireless TTL (Master/Remote) and Custom Setting. TTL exposure control is available with Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony cameras. The Nissin MF18 supports the Nissin Power Pack PS300, which can be used to shorten the recycling time of the flash. Pricing and availability to be announced.
The Sony Bloggie Touch is a Full HD pocket camcorder that also takes 12-megapixel photos. Available in two versions - the MHS-TS20 and MHS-TS10 with 8GB and 4GB of embedded memory respectively -, the Sony Bloggie Touch has a 3-inch capacitive touch screenthat automatically adjusts for vertical or horizontal shooting and viewing, enabling customers to shoot video right-handed, left-handed, right-side-up or even upside-down. Equipped with an f2.8 wide-angle lens and a sensitive Exmor CMOS sensor, the Bloggie Touch has SteadyShot image stabilisation for smoother footage and a built-in USB arm for easy charging and uploading to a computer. Available in silver or black, the MHS-TS20 and MHS-TS10 will be hit the shelves in October for about $200 and $180 respectively.
The Metz mecablitz 58 AF-2 Digital is a replacement for the mecablitz 58 AF-1, upgraded with a new stable metal base, an optimised lock system, a revised motor zoom mode and an improved high-performance flash tube. Additionally, the Metz mecablitz 58 AF-2 digital offers servo flash release functionality via the integrated camera flash which is also compatible with cameras without master function. The slave/servo sensor has been integrated into the front of the flash unit to increase the transmission quality of wireless flashes. The wide-angle diffuser has also been adapted for illumination of wide-angle focal widths from 12mm (in 135 format). The flash has an integrated flip-out reflector card and a USB interface for installing firmware upgrades. The suggested retail price of the Metz 58 AF-2 Digital is €399.00 / £369.99.
Successor to the Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1, the mecablitz 50 AF-1 Digital flash incorporates numerous enhancements. The guide number has been increased to 50 (in metres) at ISO 100/21° and 105mm focal length. Performance and reliability have been further optimised through improvements to the flash tube. Moreover, the Metz mecablitz 50 AF-1 Digital has been equipped with a servo flash release via the camera’s internal flash which also works independently of the camera’s master function. Finally, the wide-angle diffuser has been adapted and is now even suitable for illumination of wide-angle focal lengths from 12mm (in 135 format). There are different versions of the Metz mecablitz 50 AF-1 flash available for Canon, FourThirds, Nikon, Pentax and Sony cameras. The suggested retail price is €249.00 / £229.99.
The Samsung ST5500 / CL80 digital camera almost literally includes the kitchen sink, with a whole range of cutting-edge features on offer. 14 megapixels, a massive 3.7 inch AMOLED touch-screen, 7x zoom, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and DNLA connectivity - the ST5500 is easily one of the most full-featured compact point-and-shoots of 2010. But can it justify its £349.99 / $399.99 price-tag? Read our Samsung ST5500 review to find out...
Sony have joined the likes of Panasonic, Olympus and Samsung in the mirrorless system camera market with the release of the NEX-5 and NEX-3. With a 14 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor, full 1080i HD movies, high-res 3 inch tilting screen, optional external flash and two available lenses on launch, the NEX-5 certainly seems well-equipped to take on the already established competition. Find out if it has what it takes in our in-depth Sony NEX-5 review, complete with sample JPEGs, RAW files, movies and even 3D panoramas.
The Sigma SD15 digital SLR camera is now available in the United States. The Sigma SD15 has a Foveon sensor with 4.7x3 megapixels, and incorporates a TRUE II processor, a large buffer that holds 21 raw files, a 77-segment metering sensor as well as a 3-inch rear screen with a resolution of 460,000 dots. Equipped with a shutter that is rated for 100,000 actuations, the Sigma SD15 is available for the estimated street price of $989.
The official UK launch of the Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 took place at The Vinyl Factory in London, where collections from up-and-coming designers Bodyamr and Edward Finney were unveiled giving celebrity guests the chance to try out the latest kit. Pop starlet Keisha Buchanan took to the runway in a figure hugging creation from Bodyamr (see picture above), and onlookers were able to capture the moment with the new Sony NEX cameras. Rachel Banin, Category Head – Digital Imaging, at Sony UK said: “The exciting new NEX-3 and NEX-5 cameras from Sony are the first to offer interchangeable lenses, outstanding D-SLR quality images and HD movie recording in a body the size of a compact camera. It was great to be able to launch these cameras with the help of some fantastic up and coming fashion talent and unique circus performers – creating the perfect setting to really put these cameras to the test.”
Jessops is offering its customers the first chance to snap up the Sony NEX-5 in the UK. Currently the smallest mirrorless interchangeable-lens digital camera in the world, the Sony NEX-5 features a 14.2-megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, 25-point contrast-detect autofocus system, 49-segment exposure meter and a 3-inch tilting LCD panel with 921,000-dot resolution. Offering a capture rate of 7 frames per second for stills, the Sony NEX-5 can also shoot Full HD (1920 x1080i) video in AVCHD format. Encased in a magnesium alloy body, the Sony NEX-5 (shown above with 18-200mm lens) can be had for £589 including a 18-55mm lens with Optical Steady Shot image stabilisation.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H55 is a new compact travel-zoom camera, sporting a 10x, 25-200mm lens and 14 megapixel sensor. A cheaper alternative to the Sony HX5, the H55 model also offers a 3 inch LCD screen, 720p HD movies and Sweep Panorama mode. Gavin Stoker tests out the £250 / $250 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H55.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5 is a small and stylish camera with a 10 megapixel back-illuminated Exmor-R sensor, amazing 10fps burst mode, 3 inch touch-sensitive LCD screen, innovative Sweep Panorama mode, a 4x zoom lens, 720p HD movies and ISO range of 100-3200. And we haven't mentioned that the TX5 is also freeze, shock, water and dust proof too. Find out if the Sony TX5 can live up to its £330 / $350 price-tag in our latest expert review.
Sony has launched its first mirrorless interchangeable-lens system cameras, the Sony NEX-5 and the Sony NEX-3. Both cameras feature 14.2-megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensors, 25-point contrast-detect autofocus systems, 49-segment exposure meters and 3-inch tilting LCD panels with 921,000-dot resolution. Both the NEX-3 and the NEX-5 can capture fast-moving action with a high-speed burst of full-resolution images at up to 7fps. The new Sony NEX cameras feature the new E mount, but can also take regular Sony ? lenses via the optional LA-EA1 adapter. The NEX-5 has a magnesium alloy body and shoots Full HD (1920 x1080i) video as high-quality AVCHD files. The NEX-3 captures 720p HD video as compact MPEG4 files that are claimed to be “ideal” for PC storage and web sharing. Although the cameras have no built-in flash, they both come supplied with a super-compact clip-on flash that attaches via an accessory terminal (there’s no hot shoe though). The NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras from Sony will be available in the UK from June 2010.
Hasselblad’s Phocus 2.5 for Apple computers allows users to import raw files from more than 150 DSLR cameras, and features support for most standard image file formats. The supported camera models include products from Canon, Nikon, Leica, Sony, Fuji, Olympus, and more. Photographers who use Leaf digital backs also benefit from this upgrade, with the inclusion of raw support for Leaf digital backs. Phocus 2.5 for Mac will be available for download from the Hasselblad website starting 19 May.
DxO Labs have launched DxO Optics Pro 6.2 for Windows and Mac, which supports Canon 550D and Sony Alpha DSLR-A450 in both its Standard and Elite editions, and the Canon 1D Mark IV and Nikon D3s in its Elite edition. In addition, 85 new DxO optical modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, supporting the following cameras: Canon 350D, 400D, 450D, 500D, 550D, 20D, 30D, 40D, 7D,1D Mark III, 1D Mark IV; Fuji S5 Pro; Nikon D3000, D40X, D50, D60, D90, D700, D3, D3s; Pentax K200D, K-7; and Sony A450. This brings the number of lens-camera combinations supported by DxO Optics Pro to 2000. The DxO Optics Pro 6.2 Standard edition costs £85, while the Elite edition is £179. These discounted prices are valid until 15 June 2010. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro 5 or 6 after 1 June 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.2.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5 is a brand new travel-zoom compact camera that's stuffed to the proverbial gills with all the latest must-have features. A 10x, 25-250mm Sony G lens? Check. Built-in GPS tracking complete with a compass? Check. Full 1080i high-definition video with stereo sound? Check. A 10 megapixel CMOS sensor, 3 inch screen, manual shooting mode, 10fps burst mode, even SD memory card support - all present and correct. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5 review to find out if all of these features add up to a great camera.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W380 is a new 14 megapixel compact camera with an ultra-wide angle 24-140mm 5x lens, complete with fast f/2.8 aperture, ISO 3200 and SteadyShot anti-shake system. The W380 has a raft of auto features aimed at improving your pictures, from the Easy shooting mode for complete beginners to the Sweep Panorama mode that never fails to impress. Heavily based on the WX1 camera that we enthusiastically reviewed at the end of 2009, does the Sony W380 succeed in bringing a similar feature set to a wider audience? Read our Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W380 review to find out...
DxO Labs have announced the addition of 70 new lens & camera combinations to its library of DxO Optics Modules for its DxO Optics Pro automatic image enhancement software. This new release brings the total number of available DxO Optics Modules to over 1900. DxO Optics Pro 6.1.2 for Windows is available from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers priced at $169 / €149 / £99 (Standard Edition) and $299 / €299 / £199 (Elite Edition). DxO Optics Pro 6 for Mac is scheduled for release in May 2010 and will be available as a free upgrade to customers who have purchased version 5 or higher after June 1, 2009.
Website: 70 New DxO Optics Correction Modules
The catchily named "mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras" are quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with, a fact that Samsung have recognised with the launch of their own rival system to the Micro Four Thirds standard. The Samsung NX10 is the first model in the new series, featuring a DSLR-like design, large 3 inch AMOLED screen, electronic viewfinder, 720p video and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 14.6 megapixels. With 30mm pancake, 18-55mm and 50-200mm lenses and a smattering of accessories available from day one and five more lenses to follow this year, Samsung are certainly making a sizeable investment in their compact/DSLR hybrid system. Read our Samsung NX10 review, complete with 50 JPEG samples and 12 RAW, to find out if it can out-perform its Olympus and Panasonic rivals.
Small cameras with big sensors are set to be the future of photography - at least, that's what Olympus think as they introduce the E-PL1, their brand new PEN camera for the mass-market. Cheaper, smaller, lighter and easier to use than most rival models, the Olympus E-PL1 is firmly aimed at frustrated compact camera owners who crave more control and better results, but who are put off by bulky and complicated DSLRs. The full-featured E-PL1 should also appeal to experienced prosumers looking for a cheaper way into Micro Four Thirds. Read the World's first online Olympus E-PL1 review to find out if it strikes the right balance between affordability and functionality.
Sony is showing a number of concept cameras at PMA 2010. These include
- Concept model of an ultra-compact interchangeable lens digital camera system that packs the quality of a DSLR camera in an extraordinarily small body, along with interchangeable lenses
- Mid-range concept camera for advanced users (a successor to the ?700), as well as concept mainstream models, all complete with full 1080p AVCHD video capability
- Prototype of a Super Telephoto Lens (500mm F4 G) with class-leading optical performance
- Prototype of a Distagon T 24mm F2 ZA SSM, new Carl Zeiss wide angle lens for superior shots of landscapes and sweeping vistas
DxO Labs today released DxO Optics Pro v6.1.2 for Windows that adds raw support for the Pentax K-7 and the Sony A500 & A550 DSLRs as well as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 and GH1 cameras. This release also improves stability and removes a colour cast at very high ISO for Nikon and Pentax cameras. Furthermore, 81 new DxO Optics Modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, covering the Canon 7D, 20D, 30D, 40D, 50D, REBEL XTi/400D, DIGITAL REBEL XSi/450D and REBEL T1i/500D; Fuji S5; Nikon D200, D300, D300s, D50, D3000, D5000 and D80; Panasonic LX3 and GH1; Pentax K-7; and Sony A230, A330, A500 and A550. DxO Optics Pro v6.1.2 for Windows, both Standard ($169/€149/£99) and Elite ($299/€299/£199) editions, is immediately available from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers. DxO Optics Pro 6 for Mac is scheduled for release during the first quarter of 2010 and will be available as a free upgrade to customers who have purchased version 5 or higher after June 1, 2009.
Website: DxO Labs
The Sony Cyber-shot TX7 is a new touch-screen camera with a 10.1-megapixel EXMOR R CMOS sensor, a Carl Zeiss branded 25-100mm equivalent zoom lens and image stabilisation. The generously-sized wide 8.9cm (3.5”) touch-screen LCD and streamlined user interface makes operation simple and easy. TruBlack screen technology minimises reflections and boosts contrast for a richly detailed view of your shots, even when you’re outdoors in bright daylight, the manufacturer says. Apart from capturing ten-megapixel photos, the Sony TX7 can also shoot 1080i full-HD videos. In the new Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode, the camera detects if people or other objects are moving in your field of view as you sweep the camera and compensates for any mis-matching as images are automatically stitched together. The lightweight (133g) Sony TX7 has 45MB of internal memory and slots for both Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD/SDHC cards. The camera should be available later this month, priced at $399.99.
The new Samsung ST550 camera pushes the envelope of user interface design, with a incredibly clever touch-screen interface that is finally worth using. Widely promoted in an expensive TV ad campaign, the ST550 (also known as the TL225) has an LCD screen on the front as well as the back, which is used for self-portraits. A 12 megapixel sensor and 4.6x wide-angle zoom complete the key specifications of the ST-550. Mark Goldstein finds out if the Samsung ST550 / TL225 is the ultimate Christmas gift in our in-depth expert review...
Sigma Corporation of America has highlighted the work of four elite photographers - Chip Forelli, Paula Lerner, Stephen Mallon and Sean Perry - in its online photo gallery, “Our World: Awe-Inspiring Images.” All four photographers were given a Sigma DP2, with which they were not familiar and were encouraged to produce images that pay tribute to the camera’s image quality. The results are currently available on the company’s Web site for public viewing.
Website: Our World
DxO Labs have released DxO Optics Pro v6.1 for Windows, an update that adds RAW support for 3 new cameras - the Canon EOS 7D and PowerShot G11, and the Nikon D3000. For this new release, DxO Labs fixed several bugs and also made some improvements to the user interface, based on customer feedback and suggestions, including full-screen display mode for increased visual comfort, additional shortcuts for improved productivity and additional presets for increased flexibility. Furthermore, 56 new DxO Optics Modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, covering the Canon 7D, 400D, 450D, 500D, Nikon D3, D300, D300s, D40x, and D3000; the Olympus E-30, E-420, E-510, and E-620; and the Sony A300, A850 and A900. DxO Optics Pro v6.1 for Windows, both Standard and Elite editions, are immediately available from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers at a 30 % discount until 31 December 2009. This means the standard edition is now £69 instead of £99, while the elite edition can be yours for £139 instead of £199.
Website: DxO Labs
The Imaging Source, a multi-national manufacturer of imaging hardware and software for industry, medicine and astronomy, is now offering amateur astro-photographers a series of highly affordable, low-noise astronomy cameras to capture high-quality images of the night sky. The cameras are outfitted with a tripod socket and a Gigabit Ethernet connector. Monochrome and colour models are available with and without an IR cut filter in three resolutions: 640x480, 1024x768 and 1280x960. The astronomy cameras deploy low-noise CCD chips from Sony, which have an exposure time of up to 60 minutes and a maximum frame rate of up to 60 fps. The astronomy cameras are available worldwide and start at $350 or €290 (without shipping and sales tax).
Website: Imaging Source
DxO Optics Pro v5.3.6 for Macintosh brings full compatibility with Snow Leopard, and adds support for 15 new cameras. Newly supported models include the Canon EOS 7D and PowerShot G11, the Nikon D3000 and D300s, the Olympus E-410, E-420, E-450, E-510, E-520, E-620 and E-30 as well as the Sony Alpha DSLR-A230, A330 and A380 models. The 15th camera, the Olympus E-3 (pictured), is only supported in the Elite edition. Also available to DxO Optics Pro users are 255 new DxO Optics Modules, covering 46 cameras. Both the Standard and Elite editions of DxO Optics Pro v5.3.6 are available at a 30% discount until 31 December 2009.
Website: DxO
The Nikon Coolpix S70 is a new 12 megapixel compact camera with a very interesting OLED screen. The S70's large 3.5 inch monitor offers a touch-sensitive interface, featuring a Touch Shutter function that allows you to focus on and photograph a subject by simply touching it on the camera’s display. Other key features of the Nikon S70 include a 5x zoom lens with optical vibration reduction, Subject Tracking, Scene Auto Selector Mode and Nikon’s Smart Portrait System. The Nikon Coolpix S70 officially costs £339 / €379 / $399.95 - we find out if it's worth it in our latest expert review.
The new Cyber-shot DSC-WX1 is the second Sony camera that we've recently reviewed to feature the innovative Exmor R sensor, promising better image quality in low-light conditions. Just like its sister model, the TX1, the Sony WX1 utilises a 10 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS image sensor, with ISO speeds up to 3200 and a fast f/2.4, 5x optical zoom lens with image stabilisation. Other key features include burst shooting up to 10 frames per second at full resolution, 720p HD movie recording, and an easy to use Sweep Panorama mode. Priced at $350 / £300, is the Sony CyberShot DSC-WX1 the ultimate in point-and-shoot compact cameras? Mark Goldstein finds out...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX1 is a small, stylish and svelte pocket camera with a twist - it delivers excellent image quality in almost any situation. With Sony's new Exmor-R sensor at its heart, the TX1 takes great pictures in all lighting conditions, and thanks to its amazing 10fps burst mode, it can keep up with the action too. Other key features include touch-sensitive operation via the 3 inch LCD screen, innovative Sweep Panorama mode, a 4x zoom lens and ISO range of 100-3200. We find out if the Sony TX1 strikes the right balance between form and function in our latest expert review.
DxO Labs today announced the imminent release of DxO Optics Pro version 6, which is claimed to provide “the best-ever images from extreme ISO shots”. The company is making the bold claim that photographers can push their cameras to the ISO limits and even beyond — as much as one to two stops above their usual ISO settings — and still get great photos without any noticeable loss in image quality. As a side benefit, DxO Labs’ new de-noising technology significantly extends the effective dynamic range in the shadows. Additionally, the new version of DxO Optics Pro further extends optical fault correction, and now provides controls to manually adjust distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberrations, and sharpness for any lens. DxO Optics Pro 6 for Windows Standard and Elite editions are scheduled for release in early November 2009 from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers, and will be available at an exceptional 33 % discount until December 31, 2009:
Sony are heavily promoting the low-light capabilities of their latest digital cameras, including the brand new Sony CyberShot TX1. This is an ultra-compact 10-megapixel camera with a 4x zoom lens and a touch panel interface. The TX1 uses Sony's “Exmor R” back illuminated CMOS sensor technology to provide approximately twice the sensitivity of cameras with traditional image sensors. See exactly what the new Sony CyberShot TX1 camera is capable of by checking out our gallery of sample photos. There are 20 JPEG files from a production version of the Sony TX1, plus sample images showing off the ISO range (125-3200), and also a bonus video shot in low-light conditions.
Point Grey and Fresco Logic have developed a SuperSpeed USB-enabled HD video camera that can stream uncompressed 1080p high-definition video to a USB 3.0 host device. The prototype camera is designed and manufactured by Point Grey and uses the new 3-megapixel Sony IMX036 CMOS image sensor. The sensor also supports an HD 1080p60 mode, which allows the camera to output raw, uncompressed 1920 x 1080 pixel images at 60 frames per second. At the 2009 Intel Developer Forum (IDF), the camera will connected to a USB 3.0 interface card on the host side which is powered by the FL1000, a PCI Express to SuperSpeed USB Extensible Host Controller Interface host controller chip from Fresco Logic. The host PC to be used at the live demonstration from September 22nd to 24th at IDF in the Fresco Logic booth #731 inside the USB-IF Community has an Intel i5-based P7P55D motherboard from ASUS.
The Sony A230 is the third and final model that we're reviewing in Sony's revamped lineup of entry-level DSLR cameras for 2009. Heavily based on the previous A200 model, the new A230 features a new look and feel designed to make it easier to use for people new to SLR photography, whilst retaining all the key features of its predecessor. These include a 2.7 inch LCD screen, anti-dust system, ISO range of 100-3200, in-built anti-shake, eye-start auto-focus and Dynamic Range Optimiser. Is the £530 / $650 Sony A230 the best camera for DSLR first-timers? Mark Goldstein finds out...
The new Panasonic DMC-GF1 is the world’s smallest and lightest system camera with a built-in flash. Based on the Micro Four Thirds standard, the Panasonic GF1 weighs just 285g body-only and is 35% smaller than the DMC-G1. Standout features include the 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor, a built-in flash, 3 inch LCD with 460k dot resolution, Venus Engine HD image processor and in-built Dust Reduction system. The DMC-GF1 offers 8 artistic effects via the My Color mode, plus nine Film modes and 16 Scene modes, including a new Peripheral Defocus mode that keeps the subject in sharp focus while softening the focus around it. It can record 1280 x 720 high-definition video in the AVCHD Lite or Motion JPEG formats, and the GF1 can focus in 0.3 seconds via its contrast AF system. The Panasonic DMC-GF1 will be available in October. In the UK pricing is still to be announced. In the US the GF1 will ship in two kits, one with the new LUMIX G 20mm/F1.7 ASPH pancake lens, and the other with the existing 14-45mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. zoom lens, both priced at $900. An optional electronic external viewfinder is also available for $200.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 is a super-zoom camera with some rather unique features up its proverbial sleeve. These include a 20x zoom lens and 9 megapixel CMOS sensor, both of which utilise Sony's DSLR technology, 3 inch tiltable LCD screen, and fast 10fps burst shooting mode. Going up against the likes of the Canon Powershot SX20 IS, Panasonic FZ38 and Olympus SP-590UZ, we find out if the £480 / $500 Sony HX1 hits the right spot...
Sony have just revealed the 12.3-megapixel Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 and 14.2-megapixel A550 digital single-lens reflex cameras with enhanced Live View, Auto HDR functionality and high-speed continuous shooting capabilities. At the heart of both cameras is a new, unique to Sony, Exmor CMOS sensor that ensures crisp low-noise images, according to the manufacturer. Sustained shooting speeds of up to 4 frames per second (fps) can be achieved in Live View Mode, rising to 5 fps with the optical viewfinder. The new Speed Priority mode on the Sony A550 model raises the bar further still, shooting at 7 fps (with AF and AE setting maintained from the first frame ). Creative options are broadened by the new Auto HDR mode that captures a huge range of shadow and highlight detail in landscapes, interiors and other scenes. The Sony A500 and A550 use powerful algorithms to combine and optimise two successive frames in only 2 seconds, correcting any misalignment between frames when shooting handheld, which is Sony’s unique technology. The result is a single HDR image emulating the huge natural tonal range of human vision – with no PC or tripod needed. The Quick AF Live View of the A3x0 series has been carried over, and is joined by a new Manual Focus Check Live View mode, which assists with fine-tuning your composition and focus. The live image offers 100% field coverage, assisted by framing grid lines for precise composition. There’s also a selectable 7x/14x zoom function for a close-up confirmation of focus. The Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 and DSLR-A550 will be available from the end of October 2009 for €699/$750 and €849/$950, respectively (RRP, body only).
Update: We’ve just added 29 product shots taken at today’s UK press launch.
The Nikon D3000 is a new digital SLR camera for the masses, with simplified handling and guided help that offers a gentle introduction to the world of SLR photography. The D3000 is designed to improve your photos, with an interactive Intelligent Guide mode holding your hand on the road to that perfect picture. Other standout features include a large 3 inch LCD screen, sensible 10 megapixel sensor, 11-point autofocus system and 3fps continuous shooting. Available for £429.99 / €522.00 body-only or £499.99 / €607.00 / $599.95 with the 18-55mm VR kit lens, Gavin Stoker discovers if the Nikon D3000 is the ultimate camera for DSLR beginners.
The Olympus 7010 is the newest member of the now extensive Mju / Stylus range of Olympus compact cameras. Called the Mju 7010 in Europe and the Stylus 7010 in the US, this 12 megapixel camera boasts a 7x optical zoom lens covering a focal range of 28-196mm. The Olympus Mju 7010 also offers i-Auto mode for beginners, a 2.7 inch LCD screen, Dual Image Stabilisation and AF tracking, plus a range of new Magic Filters to enhance your images. Available in three colours for £249 / $199, Gavin Stoker tests the Olympus Mju 7010 in the World's first review.
The Sony A330 is the second model that we're reviewing in Sony's revamped lineup of entry- and mid-range DSLR cameras for 2009. Heavily based on the previous A300 model, the new A330 features a new look and feel designed to make it easier to use for people new to SLR photography, whilst retaining all the key features of its predecessor. These include a 2.7 inch tilting LCD screen, Live View, anti-dust system, ISO range of 100-3200, body anti-shake system, eye-start auto-focus system and Dynamic Range Optimiser. Is the £600 / $650 Sony A330 the best camera for DSLR first-timers? Zoltan Arva-Toth finds out...
Sony have revamped their entry- and mid-range DSLR cameras for 2009, with the A380 replacing the A350 as the most sophisticated model. The Sony A380 retains all the key features of its predecessor - 2.7 inch tilting LCD screen, Live View, anti-dust system, ISO range of 100-3200, body anti-shake system, eye-start auto-focus system and Dynamic Range Optimiser - whilst updating the design and user interface to supposedly make it easier to use. Find out if Sony's designers have been successful by reading our in-depth review of the £700 / $850 Sony A380 DSLR.
Sony have announced two new Full HD digital camcorders, the Sony HDR-CX500V (pictured) and the Sony HDR-CX520V. In addition to capturing full1920x1080 high-definition video, the HDR-CX500V and the HDR-CX520V can also take 12-megapixel still photos. Moreover, both camcorders feature 60p output, which automatically converts content to 60 progressive frames per second when connected to a compatible HDTV. Another notable feature, Optical SteadyShot with Active Mode now offers 3-Way Shake Canceling. This feature reduces hand shake in three directions – vertical and horizontal shake corrected by optical image stabilisation and the third, by way of electronic image stabilisation, facilitates correction for lateral-roll shake. To effortlessly track your destinations on a map, the camcorder’s built-in GPS antenna and NAVTEQ digital maps geo-tag your videos and photos. Introducing new technology to down-convert from AVCHD™ to MPEG2, Sony eliminates the need for a PC and allows for simple DVD creation with the optional DVDirect Express DVD writer (sold separately for around $150). The HDR-CX500V (with 32GB of internal flash memory) and the HDR-CX520V (with 64GB) will be available in September for about $1,100 and $1,300 respectively.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T900 is a new compact and stylish digital camera with a large 3.5 inch touch-screen LCD and 720p HD movie recording. The 12.1 megapixel Sony T900 features a Carl Zeiss branded 4x optical zoom lens complete with optical image stabiliser. Video is recorded at 1280x720 pixels at 30fps in the MPEG4 format. Available in black, silver, bronze and red for $380 / £369, Gavin Stoker discovers if the Sony Cyber-shot T900 is a triumph of both substance and style.
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.
The Canon Digital IXUS 110 IS (also know as the Canon PowerShot SD960 IS) is a new compact camera with a 28mm wide-angle lens and HD video mode. Available in four different pastel colours, the Canon IXUS 110 IS features a 4x zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization, 2.8 inch wide-angle LCD screen and 12 megapixel sensor. Gavin Stoker casts his critical eye over the new $329.99 / £349.00 / €399.00 Canon Digital IXUS 110 IS.
HDMI Licensing LLC, the agent responsible for licensing the High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) specification has announced the features that will be incorporated in the upcoming HDMI 1.4 specification. Enhanced functionalities include: a new data channel for Ethernet connectivity, an Audio Return Channel, 3D over HDMI, support for high-definition resolutions four times beyond the resolution of 1080p (including 4096x2160 24Hz), expanded support for colour spaces including AdobeRGB, a Micro HDMI Connector and a new Automotive Connection System for in-vehicle HD content distribution. The HDMI specification 1.4 will be available for download at http://www.hdmi.org no later than June 30, 2009.
The Sony Alpha A380, A330, and A230 are three new easy-to-use DSLR cameras. The 14.2 megapixel A380 and 10.2 megapixel A330 feature Quick AF Live View for responsive ‘freestyle’ shooting. The 10.2 megapixel Sony A230 is the world’s lightest DSLR featuring an APS-C sized image sensor and in-body image stabilisation. All three models feature a 2.7-inch LCD screen, which can be tilted up or down on the A380 and A330 models, a HDMI terminal and a graphical user interface with built-in on-screen Help Guide. The Sony Alpha A380 costs $850, the A330 $650, and the A230 $550 with the SAL-1855 standard zoom lens. The twin lens kit with the SAL-1855 standard zoom and SAL-55200 telephoto zoom lenses is $1050, $850 and $750 for the A380, A330 and A230 respectively. In the UK, the A230 is priced at £530, the A330 is £610, and the A380 is £720 (all body only).
The Canon PowerShot D10 is an all-action compact camera that will cope with just about everything that you throw at it. Water, dust, freeze and shock proof, the new Canon D10 is a distinctively designed 12 megapixel camera with a difference. Find out if the $329.99 / £379.00 / €449.00 D10 makes the perfect summer camera by reading our expert review.
The Canon Digital IXUS 990 IS is the new top-of-the-range IXUS camera, offering 12 megapixels, 5x zoom lens, 3 inch LCD screen, and HD movies. Also known as the PowerShot SD970 IS Digital Elph in North America, this compact model features the DIGIC 4 image processor, Smart AUTO mode for beginners, plus Blink Detection and Face Detection technologies. Read our in-depth review to find out if the IXUS 990 IS / SD970 IS offers enough to justify its $379.99 / £379.00 / €449.00 price tag...
A new mobile and web service called vufone has been launched in the United Kingdom. Bridging the gap between mobile and web applications, vufone allows users to automatically synchronise personal mobile content with photos, videos and other multimedia across the spectrum of popular social media websites. As well as being able to post content to their desired online social networks and services, vufone users can share their mobile pictures, videos and calendar appointments with friends and contacts through the mobile or web interface. The service is now available at www.vufone.com at a special subscription offer of £9.99 per year.
Rumanian software firm Bits&Coffee SRL have released version 2.5 of their image editor, BatchPhoto. With version 2.5, BatchPhoto introduces a new major feature: raw photo development. By taking advantage of multi-core processors BatchPhoto can convert hundreds or even thousands of raw images to common image formats like JPEG or TIFF in a single session. Moreover, it can also change the often meaningless names assigned by digital cameras to custom keyword-based names, in the same operation. It comes in two editions: Home and Pro priced at $29.95(US), and $59.95(US), respectively. Do note that this program is Windows only.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T500 is a stylish digital camera with a large touch-screen LCD and HD movie recording. The 10 megapixel Sony T500 also features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with 5x optical zoom and optical image stabiliser. Video is recorded at 1280x720 pixels at 30fps in the MPEG4 AVC/H.264 format. Available in black, silver and red for £289 / $399, Gavin Stoker discovers if the Sony Cyber-shot T500 offers as much substance as style.
The Sony Cyber-shot T77 is an ultra-slim 10 megapixel compact camera, measuring less than 14mm at its thinnest point. Available in brown, green, pink, black and silver for £209 / $300, the Sony T77 is almost completely controlled via its 3 inch widescreen touch-sensitive LCD panel. Other stand-out features of the Cybershot T77 include a 35-140mm equivalent 4x zoom lens, intelligent scene recognition, Smile Shutter and face detection with child and adult priority, high sensitivity shooting (up to ISO 3200), anti-blink function, and optical image stabilisation. Gavin Stoker finds out if the Sony Cyber-shot T77 is worth the £209 / $300 asking price.
The JOBO photoGPS is now compatible with the Mac operating system. The JOBO photoGPS is a small and lightweight GPS receiver that fits directly on any digital camera’s hot shoe. Suggested retail price for the JOBO photoGPS is $159. The optional Hot shoe adapter for Sony cameras is $49.90.
The Sony Memory Stick format for Extended High Capacity is the tentative name for a brand new memory card format. Offering a a maximum storage capacity of 2-terabytes, Memory Stick format for Extended High Capacity expands the existing Memory Stick PRO format. In addition, SanDisk and Sony have announced the joint development of “Memory Stick HG Micro”, a format expanded from “Memory Stick Micro” (M2). Format licensing corresponding to the “Memory Stick format for Extended High Capacity” and the “Memory Stick HG Micro” is scheduled to start in 2009.
The new range of Sony S-Frame digital photo frames boast HD picture quality plus a wide range of fun, easy-to-use viewing features. Available in three different series (X, V and D), Sony S-Frames’ offer a choice of screen sizes from 7 to 10 inches, BIONZ imaging processor , auto-orientation sensor and Auto Touch-Up feature. The range-topping X-Series models feature a Super Photo LCD panel for deeper, richer colours and opulent shadow tones. The Sony S-Frame digital photo frames will be available from April 2009.
Sony have unveiled a 12.25 megapixel CMOS sensor for use in camera phones. The 1/2.5 CMOS “Exmor” image sensor features the industry’s smallest unit cell size (1.4µm), highest pixel count, and 10 frames/s continuous shooting. Sony claim that its new sensor “realizes high-definition image quality equivalent to compact digital still cameras” - there’s a sample image with a 100% crop after the jump, so you can judge for yourselves.
The new BenQ E1050t digital camera features an innovative touch-screen interface. You can use the 3 inch touch-screen LCD display to take pictures by tapping the screen, zoom in by circling the subject, and control video playback or browse photos by swiping the screen. The 10 megapixel E1050t also features a 3x optical zoom lens, AF Assist Lamp, HD 16:9 mode, Night Scene and 29 shooting modes.
The RAW workflow software Capture One 4 Pro is now available. Capture One 4 Pro has been designed to enhance the image quality of professional digital captures. “Phase One supports pro photographers who prefer straightforward, responsive, effective options to meet uncompromising standards of quality,” said British fashion photographer Drew Gardner. “So you find in Capture One 4 PRO an experience more consistent with what photography is all about.” Phase One’s Capture One 4 Pro costs $399 and 299 Euros.
The IDP-100 is Sony Ericsson’s first ever digital photo frame. With a sleek dark grey finish, the stylish 7” IDP-100 photo frame will let you display photos in either landscape or portrait format and can be mounted on a wall or sat on a bedside table or office desk. You can transfer your favourite images in a variety of ways, via Bluetooth, USB flash memory, M2 card, micro SD, SD or MS Duo. “The IDP-100 Digital Photo Frame is the perfect companion to your Cyber-shot phone and lets you display your favourite moments easily and in high quality for all to see. However, it’s not just mobile phone users that can benefit from the IDP-100. We are proud that the frame receives stores and displays up to 500 still images through a variety of options. Once uploaded they are automatically rotated, enhanced and re-sized to fit the frame - so that you can enjoy your memories instantly.” said Jacob Sten, Head of the accessories division at Sony Ericsson.
Sony’s new Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX memory card offers a fast read speed of 20MB/second. In combination with the supplied USB adaptor, the PRO-HG Duo HX card achieves 20MB/s in reading mode and 15MB/s in writing mode, a third faster than a standard Memory Stick PRO Duo. Also supplied are a free, downloadable Memory Stick Data Rescue Service which can quickly recover deleted photographs and files, and a 10 year warranty.
The Imaging Source have launched a new series of affordable telescope cameras for astro-photography. Starting at $350.00 / EUR 290.00, the telescope cameras use low noise CCD chips from Sony, which have an exposure time of up to 60 minutes and a maximum frame rate of up to 60 fps. All camera parameters, such as exposure, sensitivity and frame rate, can be set using the graphical user interface. The Imaging Source telescope cameras ship in blue and black anodized aluminum and zinc housing, measure 50 mm x 56 mm and weigh 260g.
DxO Optics Pro 5.2 features a new RAW converter that dramatically improves noise reduction in ultra-high ISO images, plus support for three new camera bodies. The Pentax K20D, Sony-A350 and Sony-A700 DSLRs are now supported, and it also inlcudes the DxO Optics Pro Import plug-in for Adobe Photoshop. New lens correction modules have also been added for the Samsung GX20 and the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi. To celebrate the release of DxO Optics Pro v5.2, DxO Labs is extending the special DxO FilmPack free license offer until July 31, 2008.
Photo Recovery Software v3.0 from Stellar Phoenix recovers digital photos from all external storage devices. Images lost due to accidental deletion or formatting of the media can be recovered using Photo Recovery Software v3.0, which supports a wide variety of RAW file formats as well as Jpeg, Tiff, BMP, GIF and PNG files. Photo Recovery Software 3 is available now for MAC and Windows and costs $39 / €31 + VAT.
Bibble Pro 4.10 adds support for eight of the newest digital SLR cameras and 14 new lenses. Version 4.10 adds support for: Nikon D60, Canon Digital Rebel XSi (450D), Sony a200, a300, and a350, Pentax K20D and K200D, and Olympus E-420. Version 4.10 is the last planned update to Bibble Lite and Bibble Pro before the launch of Bibble 5. Bibble 4.10 is available in both “Pro” ($129.95) and “Lite” ($69.95) versions for Windows, Macintosh (PPC/Intel as a Universal Binary) and Linux.
TrustedReviews have reviewed the Sony DSC-T2, a compact camera with 4GB of internal memory that can store up to 1,000 8 megapixel images.
“The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T2 is an extremely stylish ultra-compact camera with a range of interesting and innovative features. If you can cope with the rather fiddly touch-screen interface and keep your fingers away from the lens, you’ll find it an excellent camera for social snapshots, and the creative playback features are a lot of fun. However it is quite expensive, the the overall image quality doesn’t live up to the price tag.”
Website: TrustedReviews - Sony DSC-T2 Review
After weeks of rumours and leaks, it should come as no surprise that the Sony A350 and A300 DSLR cameras have been announced. The two cameras are identical except for the megapixel count - the A350 has a 14.2 megapixel sensor, and the A300 10.2 megapixels. Both the A350 and A300 offer a variable angle 2.7 inch LCD screen, new Quick AF Live View mode for fast and responsive TTL phase-detection auto-focusing, high ISO of 3200 and Sony’s D-Range Optimizer. The DSLR-A300 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens will ship in April for about $800. The DSLR-A350 camera body will be available in March for about $800, and the DSLR-A350 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 3.9x zoom lens will be available for about $900 at the same time.
The Sony PictureStation DPP-FP95 and DPP-FP75 are new transportable, 4 x 6-inch photo printers. The Sony DPP-FP95 has a 3.6-inch adjustable LCD screen, and the DPP-FP75 has a fixed 3.5-inch screen. Both models use dye-sublimation technology with SuperCoat 2 laminate, a durable coating that protects photos from water, heat and fingerprints. Sony are offering several print packs of high-quality paper, with prints costing as little as 29 cents per print. The DPP-FP95 and DPP-FP75 digital photo printers will be available in April for approximately $200 and $150, respectively.
The new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T300 digital camera features a 3.5 inch touch-screen LCD and 5x optical zoom lens. The 10 megapixel Sony T300 features a a stylish, ultra-compact design with virtually no external controls to clutter the interface. It features Sony’s new intelligent scene recognition (iSCN), which allows the T300 to analyze shooting conditions and automatically select the best settings.The DSC-T300 camera replaces the DSC-T200 model and will be available in red, black and silver in March for about $400.
Bibble Pro 4.9.9 adds support for the Nikon D300, Nikon D3, Canon 1Ds Mark 3, Canon G9, Olympus E-3 and Sony A700 cameras. This release also adds tethered shooting support for all Nikon SLR’s on Intel Macs. Bibble 4 is available in both “Pro” ($129.95) and “Lite” ($69.95) versions for Windows, Macintosh (PPC/Intel as a Universal Binary) and Linux. The Bibble 4.9.9 update is free for all current Bibble 4 customers, and new customers will also receive a free upgrade to Bibble 5, when available.
The Metz 48 AF-1 flashgun is the world’s second USB TTL Flashgun, which allows firmware updating via the internet. Following on from its big brother, the 58 AF-1, the Metz 48 AF-1 has a guide number of 48 and can be used with Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Samsung and Sony DSLRs. The 48 AF-1 is supported by a full swivel reflector system, including an extractable reflector card and a diffuser.
CNET have reviewed the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T200, the first digital camera to automatically react to a person’s smile.
“If not for the softer images, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T200 would be a fine followup to the excellent T100. It shoots as fast, it offers more features, and, most amazingly, its touch-screen interface won’t make you want to throw it out of a moving car. If you can still find it, you’re better off with the T100. If you can’t find it, though, or if you have a thing for touch screens, the DSC-T200 will probably satisfy your snapshot needs.”
The new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T2 compact camera has 4GB of internal memory and can store up to 1,000 8 megapixel images. The 2.7 inch touch-panel LCD screen replaces small buttons with on-screen icons and a user-friendly interface. You can touch the screen to select the subject you want to focus on (shooting mode) and where you want to zoom in (playback mode). The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T2 digital camera will ship in December for about $350.
The Sony A700 DSLR camera is here. We now have the full press release and specifications for the A700. The Sony A700 will be available in a choice of different lens kits from mid-October 2007. Body only is $1400 / £999, with an 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 lens for $1500 / £1099, and with a 16-105mm f/3.5-5.6 lens for $1900 £1349.
All prices are inclusive of VAT. Here are the headline specs for the new Sony A700:
12.24 megapixel CMOS sensor
BIONZ image processor
11 point autofocus system
ISO 6400
5fps (for 17 shots in RAW mode)
1/8000th shutter speed
3 inch LCD screen (with 921,000 pixels)
Optional battery grip
Wireless Flash support
Both MemoryStick and CompactFlash cards supported
Sony Japan have published 3 sample images from the A700, all available as full-sized JPGs (and all taken at ISO 100 unfortunately).
Website: Sony Japan - Sony A700 Sample Images
Phase One have released a Beta version of its Capture One 4 RAW workflow software. New features in Capture One 4 include High Dynamic Range, Variants, Web contact sheet and Multiple up viewing. The first look at Capture One 4 is available now at no cost until November 1st.
The new Transcend 8GB 266X Ultra-Speed compact flash card achieves average read/write speeds of up to 40MB per second. The Transcend 266X CF card uses the latest Ultra DMA mode 4 technology and can store over 4,000 7 megapixel JPG photos or 500 RAW images. The Transcend 8GB 266X Ultra-Speed will cost 138€, with a 4Gb version for 68€ and 2Gb for 39€.
The new Sony Memory Stick PRO-HG is an extended version of the Memory Stick PRO format, offering up to 30MB/s Read/Write speeds. Memory Stick PRO-HG is fully backwards compatible with Memory Stick PRO devices and will be available in 1GB, 2GB and 4GB capacities. Sony are also launching a Memory Stick Duo ExpressCard adaptor (MSAC-EX1).
PMA 2007: muveeNow 2.0 is a new entry-level software program aimed at point-and-shoot digital camera owners. It allows users to quickly create and share videos and moving photo shows that are cut to music in 3 easy steps. muveeNow 2.0 will retail at $49.95 and be available in 13 languages from mid-March at www.muvee.com.
PMA 2007: The DXG Roadster is a combination of 5 Megapixel digital and video camera, video game and music player with FM radio, voice recorder and storage device, with 32MB of internal storage and an SD slot for additional memory. The DXG Roadster has a suggested retail price of $199 and is available immediately.
PMA 2007: The Sony GPS-CS1KA GPS Unit kit with Picture Motion Browser software provides image positioning and online mapping capabilities with a wide range of cameras. Picture Motion Browser software is compatible with all digital cameras conforming to the Exif 2.1 file specification. This means in practice that the GPS-CS1KA can now be used successfully with all digital cameras produced within the last few years, including most non-Sony models. The Sony GPS-CS1KA GPS Unit kit will be available throughout Europe from February 2007.
Sony Media Software Press Release
A New Fun, Fast and Easy Way to Organize, Edit and Share Digital Photos Is Now Available
MADISON, Wis., Dec. 13 /PRNewswire/—Sony Media Software, a leading provider of creative editing software applications, today unveiled a new way to edit and share photos with a product called Photo Go (TM) software. The new image editing and management software provides a fun, fast and easy way to organize, edit and share digital photos for people who are looking for an all-in-one solution to manage their growing image collection. “With ever-expanding digital lifestyles, and increasing use of digital cameras and cell phones for capturing still images, more and more people are looking for an efficient and cost-effective way to manage their growing collection of digital images,” says Dave Chaimson, VP Marketing for Sony Media Software. “Whether it’s simple fixes, photo printing, or uploading and sharing, our new program provides a very easy way for experienced photo editors as well as people who have never used photo management software to get started right away. This is a great new product that will not only enhance the holiday season for many people, but also provide them with a way to get even more enjoyment out of their digital images for years to come.”
Just in time for Christmas…another new memory card format. Sandisk and Sony are working on a faster, larger capacity version of the Memory Stick PRO format, called Memory Stick PRO-HG, which is 3 times as fast and has a maximum size of 32GB.
Sony Press Release
Sunnyvale / Tokyo, December 11, 2006 - SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) and Sony Corporation today announced the development of the “Memory Stick PRO-HG” format expanded from the “Memory Stick PRO” format. The continuing increase in the capacity of IC recording media has broadened its usage as a practical way to store high-resolution digital photos, music and video content (from the Internet or TV programs) on portable devices that are designed to handle digital entertainment content. The demand for real-time recording and transfer of multiple gigabytes of data using IC recording media is expected to increase rapidly, due to the growing popularity of high resolution video and digital still image applications.
Adobe Press Release
Adobe Brings Lightroom into Photoshop Family with Introduction of Beta 4 - New Round of Enhancements in Latest Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Beta Unites Feature Set for Macintosh and Windows Versions
SAN JOSE, Calif. and COLOGNE, Germany — Sept. 25, 2006 — Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced an update to the public beta of Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom™ software at the Photokina tradeshow in Cologne, Germany. Available immediately for download from Adobe Labs (http://labs.adobe.com/technologies/lightroom ), this update unites the product feature set for Windows® and Macintosh platforms, giving professional photographers a new way to import, manage and showcase large volumes of digital photographs. More than 325,000 people have opted to try Lightroom during the beta period and feedback has been fueled by over 3,400 of them sharing input in Adobe online forums. The final version of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom is expected to ship in early 2007.
Bibble Labs Press Release
Bibble Labs Releases Version 4.9 Upgrade, Including Clone & Healing Tool, Sensor Correction and 5-Star Ratings - Last major upgrade before 5.0 supports Sony Alpha a100, Nikon D80, Canon 400D Rebel XTi, and localized interface.
Photokina 2006 Cologne, Germany (Sept 22, 2006) - Bibble Labs, Inc announces the immediate availability of version 4.9 of Bibble Pro and Bibble Lite. This upgrade to the Bibble 4 product line includes the frequently requested Clone / Spot Healing tool, sensor defect correction, image rating and support for the latest cameras. Provided as a free upgrade download for all current Bibble 4 customers, version 4.9 represents the ultimate version of Bibble 4. Digital photographers have been asking for a single tool to perform all their image adjustments - not several tools for specific jobs. Adding Noise Ninja technology and one-touch image optimization with Perfectly Clear in releases 4.6 and 4.7 went a long way to building a single tool for all digital darkroom needs; and with the Cloning & Healing tool in 4.9, Bibble Pro and Bibble Lite now offer the most complete and self contained workflow. “Many customers were telling us that cloning to remove blemishes and dust spots was the only correction they needed to perform in another application” says Eric Hyman, president and CEO of Bibble Labs. “Including Cloning and Healing, lens distortion correction, and stuck-pixel removal in one RAW-enabled application makes Bibble Pro and Lite the one-stop-shop for the digital darkroom.”
Adobe UK Press Release
New Adobe Premiere Elements 3 Brings Home Videos to Life with Powerful and Accessible Editing Tools - Latest Video Editing Software Offers Unparalleled Ease-of-Use for Beginners and Interactive Sharing with Adobe Flash Video
London. — Sept. 12, 2006 — Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced Adobe® Premiere® Elements 3.0 software for Windows®, a landmark upgrade to the No. 1 selling consumer video editing software*. The simplified interface and drag-and-drop simplicity of Adobe Premiere Elements enables users to easily add professional quality effects and enhancements, as well as output to a wide variety of devices and formats – including Adobe Flash® Video, the standard video format for popular social networking Web sites. In addition, Adobe today announced Adobe Photoshop® Elements 5.0 software, a complete photo editing solution (see separate press release). Also available together in a single retail package, Adobe Photoshop Elements plus Adobe Premiere Elements delivers unique integrated functionality that provides consumers with the ability to do more with their photos and home videos.
Carl Zeiss Press Release
Oberkochen/Germany, 06.06.2006 - The scientific expertise of Carl Zeiss in camera optics and the industry-leading position of Sony in the consumer electronics market offer a solid foundation for expanding the existing cooperation in the field of DSC and Camcorders into the field of digital single lens reflex cameras (DSLR). The first Sony DSLR camera with Carl Zeiss inter- changeable lenses is the Sony ALPHA, also launched today. “We are delighted to expand our collaboration with Sony, the world leader in consumer electronics. We consider this collaboration as an important step into the DSLR market,” comments Dr. Winfried Scherle, General Manager & Vice President Carl Zeiss AG Camera Lens Division. “Sony’s technological expertise and under- standing of consumer markets combined with Carl Zeiss’ proven proficiency of optics and lens solutions makes us a strong team.”
Sony Electronics Press Release
New VAIO UX Model Combines Micro-Portable Design with Smooth Functionality
SAN DIEGO, May 16, 2006 – Sony Electronics today introduced the VAIO® UX Micro PC, placing full-size computer performance in a pocket-sized package. Weighing just over a pound, the new PC has a Microsoft® XP Professional operating system and an Intel® Core™ Solo Ultra Low Voltage CPU for fast processing and long battery life. The UX model also features a 4.5-inch wide SVGA screen with XBRITE™ technology for viewing that slides up to expose an integrated keyboard. This allows you to access familiar applications easily in the same way you would on a full-sized computer. The pocket-sized PC also comes equipped with a stylus and Sony’s VAIO touch launcher for quick access to functions frequently used such as Internet access, e-mail, various computer applications, games and music. Just push the launcher button located on the side of the unit.
Lyra Research Press Release
Newton, MA (March 30, 2006) — According to Lyra Research, the digital imaging authority, the number of digital images captured worldwide has grown from under 40 billion in 2002 to nearly 200 billion in 2005, and in 2009 close to half a trillion digital images will be captured. A key concern in the digital camera industry is the growing importance of camera phones, which accounted for virtually none of the images captured in 2002 but will account for close to 60 percent of the total in 2009. Lyra expects that many of these camera phone images will be short-lived, never making it to print, while digital cameras will remain the device of choice for consumers to capture images they actually care enough about to print. “As camera phone penetration rises and their image quality improves, hundreds of millions of consumers around the world will become accustomed to grabbing spur-of-the-moment photos with their phones,” explains Steve Hoffenberg, Lyra’s director of consumer imaging research. “But, for those precious family moments that people want to preserve for posterity by printing, they will still primarily turn to their digital cameras.”
REALVIZ Press Release
Introductory Discount Offer of up to 40% Until 15. April 2006
Sophia Antipolis, France (March 23, 2006) - REALVIZ, a leader in image processing software development, is pleased to announce that VTour, the latest addition to their software portfolio for content creation, is now available. The product, which was unveiled at the recent IMAGINA show in Monaco, draws on the award-winning technology of Stitcher and ImageModeler and offers users of all levels an innovative and effective solution for the creation of photo-real 3D environments from 2D pictures or panoramas. Starting directly from digital photographs, or from full 360-degree panoramas (created using Stitcher, for example), VTour facilitates the creation of 3D scenes such as interiors, or urban areas using polygonal photo-textured primitives. The results can be exported/published as either a 3D movie, or as an interactive application using 3D viewers such as Spi-V3d viewer (based on Shockwave).
The Sony Cyber-shot K800 and Sony Cyber-shot K790 camera phones are announced today, the first ever Sony phones to carry the Cyber-shot label. Both offer 3.2 megapixel sensors, autofocus and flash.
Sony Ericsson Press Release
Sony Ericsson introduce new lifestyle of imaging communication with first Cyber-shot™ phones - K800 and K790 camera phones deliver new level of imaging quality
28 February 2006, London – Sony Ericsson takes digital imaging in camera phones to new heights today with the launch of the K800 and K790 phones, the first handsets to carry the Cyber-shot™ brand, a true mark of imaging quality. Both are highly capable mobile phones with integrated 3.2 Megapixel digital cameras with Autofocus, Xenon flash and BestPic™ - Sony Ericsson’s unique imaging technology that allows you to capture exactly the moment you desire. K800 and K790 combine advanced image capture capabilities with high speed data transfer, making them perfect tools for shooting and sharing high quality pictures and videos. K800 is a dual-mode UMTS/GPRS phone and the K790 is a Tri Band EDGE phone. Both are available from Q2 2006.
PMA 2006: FotoNation Press Release
FotoNation, Slyde, and Wisair Demonstrate Embedded Wireless USB Camera at PMA
ORLANDO, FL – February 27, 2006 – FotoNation Inc. (www.fotonation.com), one of the world’s leading imaging and connectivity solutions companies for the digital photography industry, announced today that it has won the DIMA Innovative Digital Product Award for their Ultra-Wideband (UWB) In-Camera Module. The UWB module, the first wireless USB solution embedded into a camera, was co-developed by FotoNation, Wisair, a leading provider of UWB and Certified Wireless USB (WUSB) chipset solutions, and Slyde Technologies, a wireless conversion solution provider for the digital photography and video markets. FotoNation will be demonstrating the product for the first time at the PMA Conference in Orlando, FL. Through this innovative technology, digital stills and video images can be wirelessly transferred between cameras and PCs.
PMA 2006: The Sony DSC W50 and Sony DSC W30 are announced today. 6 megapixels, 3x optical zoom lenses, 2.5 inch LCD for the W50, 2 inch for the W30, W50 available in early March for about $250, and the W30 this month for about $230.
Sony Press Release
SONY’S NEW CYBER-SHOT W-SERIES CAMERAS BRING ADDED PERFORMANCE AND EYE-CATCHING DESIGN
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 13, 2006 — Sony has re-engineered its W-series of top-performing Cyber-shot® digital still cameras to embody the virtues of a traditional camera style and satisfy modern tastes for sleek, compact design. In addition to sporting eye-level viewfinders in the fashion of traditional cameras, the new Sony DSC-W50 and Sony DSC-W30 models have large LCD screens and are significantly more compact than previous W-series models. Both new cameras offer six-megapixel image resolution for high-quality prints, high-light sensitivity for fast-action shooting and more natural-looking pictures in low-light conditions, precision Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar 3x optical zoom lenses, and MPEG1 movie recording. Available in silver, the Sony DSC-W50 model features a 2.5-inch, easy-to-view LCD screen wrapped in a metal-alloy body with sophisticated etching and details. The Sony DSC-W30 model also comes in silver with a two-inch LCD.
Sony UK Press Release
Instant digital prints anytime anywhere with Sony SnapLab ™
Revolutionary desktop photofinishing solution delivers new revenue opportunities for traditional and opportunistic photo printing channels
Basingstoke, 16 January 2006 – Sony today announced SnapLab™, a brand new desktop photofinishing solution designed to meet increasing consumer demand for digital photographs. SnapLab enables retailers to provide consumers with photographic-quality printed images via the ultra-small and ultra-light printer package – and at a price both parties can afford. This latest addition to the “Print by Sony” product family means that Sony provides solutions for every link in the digital photography value chain, from image capture to instant print.
Sony has withdrawn 6 of its digital cameras from sale in China, after they failed quality control by the hejiang Administration for Industry and Commerce. The DSC-H1, DSC-L1, DSC-P200, DSC-W7, DSC-W5 and DSC-S90 models all failed to make the grade.
Website: Interface China - Sony stops sales of six cameras in China that failed inspection
Transcend Press Release
Transcend Releases its Lightning Fast, Huge Memory Capacity 8GB 120X Ultra Performance CompactFlash® Card
Transcend Information, Inc. a world leader in flash memory cards, is proud to announce the release of it latest and fastest 120X Ultra Performance 8GB CompactFlash® (CF) Card. The all-new 8GB 120X Ultra Performance CF Card achieves extraordinary average read/write speeds of up to 20/18MB per second using the latest Ultra DMA technology. With these amazing read/write speeds and the huge capacity of 8GBs, users are guaranteed to get the very best performance and results from their high-end digital equipment.
CNET have just reviewed the new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1, a 10.3 megapixel compact camera with an APS-C sized sensor that allows for a “live” preview. They seem to like it a lot…
“Sony’s Cyber Shot DSC-R1 represents an intriguing bridge between the world of user-friendly all-in-one prosumer cameras and the more complicated world of high-quality digital SLRs. It has an easily rotated LCD screen, plenty of manual bells and whistles, a sharp and versatile Carl Zeiss lens, and a 10-megapixel CMOS sensor nearly as large as those found in typical dSLRs. The resulting images are impressive, and the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1 is relatively easy to operate once you’ve navigated through the slightly awkward interface a few times. It can take a while to sort through the features spread out among more than a dozen buttons and dials, but even relative newcomers to digital photography should be able to take decent photos right out of the box.”
Website: CNET - Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 Review
SanDisk Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Sep. 29, 2005 – SanDisk® Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) and Sony Corporation today announced the development of the “Memory Stick Micro” format, an ultra-small IC recording media designed to meet the growing storage needs of highly compact, multifunctional mobile phones. Licensing for the development of “Memory Stick Micro” compatible hardware will begin October 3, 2005.
“Memory Stick Micro” media is approximately one-quarter the size of “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, yet only about 1.2 mm thick. The media’s edges are slotted lengthwise to allow for more slim-line designed connectors to reduce space in host devices. As dual-voltage media, Memory Stick Micro supports devices operating at 3.3 volts and 1.8 volts.
Memory Stick Micro is designed as an externally removable media with a controlled eject function to prevent users losing the media. Users will be able to insert Memory Stick Micro into an adapter for exchanging data to a Memory Stick PRO compatible product.
Ulead PhotoImpact 11 image editing software is announced today. The box version and electronic download (ESD) of PhotoImpact 11 will be available via the Ulead website at www.ulead.co.uk for £49.99 inc Vat at the beginning of October. The boxed version of Ulead PhotoImpact 11 will also be available from PC World, Staples, Jessops, Microwarehouse, Dabs.co, Saversoftware and Amazon.co.uk.
Ulead Press Release
Ulead Introduces New Version of PhotoImpact Image Editing Software.
PhotoImpact 11 answers the needs of professional photographers while providing new interface modes that make it simple for beginners
Northampton September 23rd 2005, Ulead Systems, Inc., a 16-year industry leader in video, image and DVD software, today announced the release of Ulead® PhotoImpact® 11, Ulead’s flagship PC image-editing software offering easy-to-use tools for a wide range of personal and professional image and photo-editing needs. The latest version introduces an all-new interface system providing distinct modes for beginners and advanced users along with 16-bit editing/RAW support and next-generation tools for high-end digital photography and creative design.
The Canon PIXMA MP450 is announced today. The Canon MP450 is an all in one printer, scanner and copier that can print 10 x 15cm borderless print in approx. 55 seconds. The MP450 offers a 4.7 cm colour LCD screen for printing without a computer and has a 1200 x 2400 dpi high resolution flatbed scanner. Price and availability of the Canon PIXMA MP450 to be announced.
Canon Europe Press Release
Canon’s PIXMA multifunctional offers unparalleled connectivity
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 22 August 2005: Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the launch of its new direct photolab multifunctional, the high-speed 4800 x 1200 dpi, 2 picolitre PIXMA MP450.
Capable of printing a photolab quality 10 x 15cm borderless print in approx. 55 seconds, the designer 3-In-One print/scan/copy device offers direct photo printing via a range of sources: from popular memory cards , PictBridge compliant digital cameras and digital video camera, or mobile phones using the built-in IrDA ports or optional Bluetooth adaptor. A 4.7 cm colour LCD display is included for image preview and selection when printing without the computer.
Sony Europe Press Release
Aug 15, 2005 - Sony Europe Scoops Prestigious Consumer Electronics Awards for HD Camcorder & Projector, Photo Printer & Car Navigation System
Berlin, 15. August 2005 - Europe’s premier consumer electronics awards organisation – the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) – has selected Sony Europe as recipient in four key categories. These EISA awards recognise the significant process that Sony has made in terms of harnessing new generation High Definition (HD), miniature and mobile electronics, integrating them into consumer equipment and creating revolutionary new consumer propositions and possibilities that were previously impossible.
The EISA 2005 – 2006 categories awarded to Sony include European High-End Camcorder (HDR-FX1), European High-End Projector (Sony QUALIA 004), European Mini Printer (DPP-FP50) and European Navigation System (KPNC9950). The awards will be presented at the EISA Gala Event in Berlin on 1 September 2005.
X’S-Drive 2 XL VP2260 is announced today. The XS Drive 2 XL VP2260 is a simple to use portable storage device which supports all types of memory card. The price of the X’S-Drive 2 XL VP2260 30GB model is £140 incl VAT. Higher capacities up to 80GB are available.
Cardmedia Press Release
Cardmedia (Europe) Ltd, the official UK distributor for the XS Drive Portable Storage devices, has announced the availability of the X’S-Drive 2 XL VP2260, a new Portable Storage Device with blue backlight LCD display, replacing the popular XS Drive II Plus VP2160.
The X’S-Drive 2 XL VP2260 remains a 2 button operation unit; “Power on / off” and “Copy” with a blue backlight LCD display for file transfer status, battery power level and capacity left on the HD.
The X’S-Drive 2 XL VP2260 allows the transfer of pictures and any other file from any memory card including xD picture cards via the 2 multi-memory card slots to its internal 2.5 inch hard drive.
Vosonic XS-Drive Pro VP3320 is announced. The Vosonic XS-Drive Pro VP3320 completes the Vosonic range of its new generation of XS Drives providing fast transfer speeds and longer battery life. The XS Drive Pro VP3320 will back up all memory cards including xD to its internal hard disk in a very compact and robust casing. The XS Drive Pro VP3320 provides a blue backlight LCD display, high quality MP3 player and FM tuner and voice/line in recorder. The XS Drive Pro VP3320 has internal rechargeable batteries providing 11 hours of use and backs up a 1GB memory card in 5 minutes only. The RRP for the VP3320 20GB version is £185 inc VAT.
Cardmedia (Europe) Ltd Press Release
Portable Storage Device with up 80GB Capacity - Backup your memory cards to the Hard disk MP3 Jukebox, FM Tuner, Voice recording - Blue backlight LCD Panel - Long battery life
Cardmedia (Europe) Ltd, the official UK distributor for the manufacturer Vosonic, has announced the availability of the X’S-Drive Pro VP3320, a new Portable Storage Device and MP3 player with blue backlight LCD display.
The Vosonic X’S-Drive Pro VP3320 is a compact portable Hard disk to backup your memory cards on the field and benefit from 20GB to 80GB of capacity via its internal 2.5” Hard disk.
You can easily use the X’S Drive Pro VP3320 all environments thanks to its Blue Backlit LCD panel. The LCD Panel displays the battery power level, copy transfer status, and all information related to MP3 music player, FM Tuner, voice recording and file navigation.
Colorplaza Ltd. Press Release
Imaging Software that Relieves the Frustrations of that Digital Camera Christmas Present
• All-in-one programme to manage your photos
• Shareware download with free 30 day trial
London, 14 January 2005 - Colorplaza Ltd., a leading independent European provider of online digital photo finishing today launches a new generation of end-user digital photo management software, Colormailer Photo Manager, that finally dispenses with the problems of imaging software incompatibility and locating your photos on your PC, and gives a single view of all images held on your hard disk.
Vosonic Press Release
VOSONIC X’S-DRIVE II Plus VP2160
9in1 Portable Storage Device with 20GB to 80GB Capacity
Fast transfers from memory card to the HD
LCD Panel
Long battery life
Cardmedia (Europe) Ltd, the official UK distributor for the manufacturer Vosonic, has announced the availability of the X’S-Drive II Plus VP2160, a new Portable Storage Device with LCD display, which is to replace the popular XS Drive II VP2060.
The X’S-Drive II Plus VP2160 remains a 2 button operation unit; “Power on / off” and “Copy” with an LCD display for file transfer status, battery power level, capacity on the HD left.
The X’S-Drive II Plus VP2160 allows the transfer of pictures and any other file from any memory card including xD picture cards via the 2 multi-memory card slots to its internal 2.5 inches hard drive.
Linspire, Inc. Press Release
Lphoto 2.0 Improves Photo Management on Desktop Linux With DVD and Flash Options
Linspire, Inc. Announces Major Upgrade to Open Source Digital Photo Software
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 12 /PRNewswire/—Linspire, Inc. today announced a new version of Lphoto, the complete desktop Linux solution for digital photo management. Besides convenient tools to import, re-touch, manage, and share digital photos quickly and easily, Lphoto 2.0 includes advanced features like album-to-CD and album-to-DVD functionality and options to create MP3 soundtracks on custom DVD slide shows. The photo manager is available for several popular Linux versions, including Linspire, MandrakeSoft, Xandros, Debian, SuSE, and Knoppix. Further details on Lphoto plus screen shots and a flash demo can be viewed at www.lphoto.com.
REALVIZ Press Release
New Stitching Product Enables Professional & Amateur Photographers to Create Superb Panoramas From Simple Photos in Just a Few Clicks
Sophia Antipolis, France (January 5, 2005) - REALVIZ, a leader in image processing software development, has announced the release of a brand new stitching product called Stitcher Express. REALVIZ Stitcher Express draws on the award-winning technology of Stitcher 4.0, already used by thousands of professional photographers, architects, multimedia and 3D artists worldwide, and offers an intuitive and complete solution, which enables both professional and amateur photographers to create superb panoramas from a series of simple photos in just a few clicks. REALVIZ Stitcher Express 1.0 is now available in both English and French for Mac & Windows.
Sony USA Press Release
SONY PHOTO VAULT™ MINI CD-R STATION NOW AVAILABLE
Product Features Standard USB Interface for Direct-from-Camera CD Burning
LAS VEGAS (CES Booth #N109), Jan. 5, 2004 - Sony Electronics has just made available the new Photo Vault™ Mini CD-R Station, a portable, “PC-free” device for burning photos directly from digital still cameras to mini CD-R media.
Weighing only eight ounces, Photo Vault Mini CD-R Station adds convenience and flexibility to digital photography storage. Users can burn images directly from their camera to 8 cm mini CD-R using a standard USB interface. The device also features a built-in photo album capability to display photos on a television using its standard AV input.
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Sony Europe Press Release
Sony presents the world’s smallest and lightest miniDV camcorder* and ultra-modern designed DVD Handycam (*As of November 2004)
The world’s smallest and lightest MiniDV format camcorder* the DCR-PC55E and DCR-PC53E will be launched in February 2005. (*As of November 2004)
The modern designed engineering DVD Handycam, DCR-DVD7 will be launched in May 2005
Thanks to mobile-friendly size and features the camcorders are always ready for shooting and playing back, whatever the situation.
DCR-PC55E and DCR-PC53E
Wherever you go, whenever you shoot, the world’s smallest and lightest Handycam is always on your side. The tiny DCR-PC55E and its sibling DCR-PC53E are scarcely larger than the mini DV cassettes they use. Fully featured, they are packed with innovative technology such as a 3.0-inch Hybrid LCD monitor which simply swivels round to display your high-resolution video.
DCR-DVD7E
The new design of the DVD Handycam DCR-DVD7E offers a brand new shooting style for camcorders. All the convenience of DVD recording has been combined with modern styling in the futuristic DCR-DVD7E, supporting DVD-R/-RW/+RW compatible formats for shooting and playing back.
Lexar Media Press Release 13/12/04
FREMONT, CA, December 13, 2004 – Lexar Media, Inc. (Nasdaq: LEXR), a world leader in advanced digital media technologies, today announced a new USB card form factor designed for universal and superior interoperability to bring next generation storage, connectivity and utility products to a broad variety of computing, consumer electronics and mobile electronics devices.
The new USB card form factor is based on the USB Type A connector as outlined in the Universal Serial Bus Specification. A mere 12 millimeters wide, 4.5 millimeters high and 31.75 millimeters long the card is no longer than the diameter of a penny. At half the width and a little more than twice the height, it is volumetrically similar to an SD card. The rugged, sturdy metal housing is intended to make the USB card suitable for use in a range of environments.
Sony Electronics Press Release 22/11/04
SONY INTRODUCES ONE-INCH REMOVABLE HARD DISK DRIVE, AVAILABLE IN 2 GB AND 4 GB CAPACITIES
PARK RIDGE, N.J., Nov. 22, 2004—Rounding out its line of removable media, Sony Electronics is introducing the Sony Microdrive, a one-inch removable hard disk drive that will meet the increasing storage needs of many portable digital devices such as digital cameras and PDAs.
Designed to fit the Compact Flash+ Type II interface, Sony Microdrive offers a cost-effective solution for expanding consumer storage needs such as high-resolution digital photos and MPEG video. Microdrive also features a high-performance 97.9 Mbps data transfer rate to accommodate rapid shooting and moving picture data.
Vosonic Press Release
VOSONIC NEW RANGE OF MULTIMEDIA X’S-DRIVES
XS Drive Super VP6210
MMV VP6300
Vosonic, the manufacturer based in Taiwan of the XS Drives, has announced the availability of two new MultiMedia XS Drives to complete its range of portable storage devices, which were shown at Photokina trade show.
The XS Drive Super VP6210 and MMV VP6300 enter the range as top specification devices providing via their 2” LCD display the possibility to view JPEG photos, play MPEG-1 videos or MP3 - WMA music.
The XS Drive Super is available from 20GB to 80GB and uses an internal 2.5” Hard disk, whereas the MMV is a more compact unit by using a 20GB 1.8” internal Hard disk.
Both units provide the exact same features:
- Copy from any memory card including Compactflash, MicroDrive, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick Duo (via adapter), MMC, RS-MMC (via adapter), Secure Digital, mini SD (via adapter), Smartmedia, xD picture card to the internal Hard disk
- Copy selected files from the Hard disk (or a memory card) to a memory card inserted
- View JPEG photos up to 16 MegaPixels, run slideshow, view Exif information, Rotate by 90 degrees, Zoom in/out
- Play MPEG-1 or Motion JPEG in AVI or MOD format videos
- Play MP3 and WMA music
- Audio/Video outputs to plug to a TV and/or listen on headphones
- Infrared remote control is supplied
- 3 hours of battery life with the LCD Screen on (up to 6 hours when the LCD is in standby)
- USB 2.0 (USB 1.1 backward compatible) connection to a computer
- Faster transfer speed than current XS Drive models (VP2060, VP300, VP3310, VP3610)
Sony Press Release 24/08/04
SONY’S MEMORY STICK PRO MEDIA ADDS 2GB CAPACITY, PLUS FASTER READ AND WRITE SPEED OPTIONS
Entire Line-up Offers Reliable Performance Under Wider Temperature Range
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 24, 2004 - Sony Electronics is providing Memory Stick PRO media users with an expanded range of enhanced media that not only offers higher capacities and are high-speed read and write capable, but are also compatible with a vast array of current Memory Stick PRO devices.
The updated Memory Stick PRO (High Speed) media features capacities of up to 2GB in the standard-size media and 1GB in the Memory Stick PRO Duo media size and are designed to support both read and write speeds of up to 80Mbps (10MB/s.). Among the fastest in the flash media industry, this higher speed will be especially beneficial for transferring data-intensive images, such as high-resolution digital photos, to and from PCs and other devices that may incorporate a high-speed parallel data transfer interface in the future.
Sony Press Release 29/06/04
TRAVEL LIGHT WITH SONY’S NEW THREE-MEGAPIXEL CAMCORDER
Enhanced Video Effects and Handycam Station Add Creativity and Convenience
SAN DIEGO, June 29, 2004 - Weighing less than a pound and easily fitting into a pocket or purse, the new Sony DCR-PC350 MiniDV Handycam camcorder packs advanced technical features and imaging power into a compact, vertical design.
This latest Handycam camcorder’s 3.31-megapixel, single CCD gives users the highest quality combination of video and still camera optics. It will be available in September, just in time for the holidays, for about $1,300.
And making it as handy as it is compact, the new unit will come with a Handycam Station—a tabletop cradle for charging and connecting to a TV or PC.
Ahead Software Press Release 08/06/04
Over 14 Individual Applications Now Included In The Most Complete Award-Winning Digital Media Suite Available
Glendale, CA, USA (June 8th, 2004)—Ahead Software, leaders in digital media technology, today announced several new exciting updates to the Ultimate All-In-One Digital Media Solution, Nero 6 Ultra Edition, including a newly designed package. This reloaded version of Nero 6 Ultra Edition offers all of its award-winning applications along with unlimited MP3, unlimited MPEG-4, Dolby Digital 5.1 surround and Dolby 2 channel encoding, Double Layer recording, and the all new Nero PhotoShow Express, the easy photo management application. With Nero StartSmart as your command center for all your digital media projects, accessing all 14 applications and launching a desired project is a breeze for users of all skill levels.
The fourth PhotographyBLOG Portfolio has been submitted by Charlie Morey.
“Four decades of experience, rich in traditional photography, photojournalism, journalism, creative writing, graphic design and computer graphics has prepared self-taught digital artist Charlie Morey for his latest endeavor, producing fine art gicl?e prints based on computer-enhanced digital photographs and marketing them via the World Wide Web and other media.
Morey’s photography experience began in 1965 with a second-hand 35mm Minolta viewfinder camera, purchased at a pawn shop in Bangor, Maine, and used to launch a 30-year period of creating fine-art black-and-white prints.
In 1974, a career change to journalism/photojournalism and an upgrade to Nikon SLR cameras further enhanced his visual experience, as the editorial position offered opportunities to travel and photograph much of Europe and segments of the Far East. Producing both images and words to describe his experiences for publication, Morey’s depth of understanding and creative/emotional development increased manifold during the fast-paced 22-year period in print media.
In 1994, Charlie discovered the World Wide Web. In 1995, he launched CYBERpress Publishing Company, a web-development firm, and began applying his art to digital media, designing interfaces and creating content during the dot-com boom. In 1996, Morey left print media behind and began working fulltime for such companies as EarthLink Network, idealab!, Tickets.com and Mail2World to create the visual “front end” for their complex web systems.
He bought his first digital camera, a floppy-disk Sony Mavica MVC FD-91 with a resolution of less than one megapixel, in 2000 and created CYBERpress Galleries to display his work to the world. A year later, he upgraded to a higher-resolution Sony Mavica MVC CD-1000 and launched digitalphotography.tv, his current fine-art photography gallery complex and digital photography portal. And in September, 2002 he upgraded once again to a state-of-the-art Nikon D100 (just in time for his annual Maine Fall Foliage pilgrimage) to support his full commitment to the joy and business of creative photography.”
Website: Portfolios: Charlie Morey
Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04
SAMSUNG CAMERA INTRODUCES INCREDIBLY COMPACT, INCREDIBLY STYLISH CAMERA
SAMSUNG U-CA 401—Small in Stature but Big on Features
SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - PMA might be the scene for some of the most impressive sights around, but Samsung Camera is truly turning heads with the launch of its new U-CA 401 ultra compact digital camera. Sleek, compact and ultra thin (96.7mm x 60mm x 15mm), the U-CA 401 packs a ton of impressive features into a stylish body that’s small enough to take anywhere. A 4 megapixel camera with 4x digital zoom, the U-CA 401 is destined to become the camera of choice for those who like to travel light, but record all of their experiences along the way.
Adobe Press Release 12/02/04
SAN JOSE, Calif.—(Business Wire)—Feb. 12, 2004 Updated Camera Raw Plug-in Adds Support for Broad Range of New Digital Cameras from Fujifilm, Kodak, Leaf, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony
Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced a new Camera Raw plug-in for Photoshop(R) CS, extending raw file support to 14 additional digital camera models. Available as a free download from Adobe’s Web site, the plug-in builds on the raw file functionality integrated in Photoshop CS, adding new support for digital cameras from leading manufacturers such as, Fujifilm, Kodak, Leaf, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony.
Sony Press Release 11/02/04
SONY PROMOTES ‘WORRY-FREE’ PHOTOGRAPHY WITH NEW CYBER-SHOT CAMERA LINE-UP
Benefits of Real Imaging Processor Find Their Way to Entire Line-up
LAS VEGAS (PMA 2004, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 - Amid the flurry of high-tech/high-end digital cameras introduced at the annual digital imaging trade show, Sony demonstrates its keen sense of consumer needs with the introduction of its new Cyber-shot compact P- and basic P-series cameras, designed for taking great pictures simply.
So that the cameras’ settings can be quickly determined behind-the-scenes, Sony incorporated its new Real Imaging Processor circuit on the new Cyber-shot DSC-P100, -P93, -P73 and -P41 cameras. Measured in fast start-up and shot-to-shot times rather than megahertz, key benefits of the processor translate into making the Cyber-shot cameras always ready to great pictures. All cameras will be available this May.
“Throughout the coming years, we’ll see a greater number of people trying out a digital camera for the first time, and we’re making sure that Cyber-shot cameras improve upon their film camera experience,” said Greg Young, Sony Electronics’ director of digital camera marketing.
Sony Press Release 11/02/04
SONY ACCELERATES STANDARD MEMORY STICK MEDIA WITH FASTER SPEED AND NEW COLOR
USB Reader/Writer with Triple Memory-Card Slots Adds Versatility
LAS VEGAS (PMA, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 - Sony Electronics is equipping Memory Stick media users for the digital future by adding the ability to read data at high speeds and copyright protection as standard features on all Memory Stick media available at retailers nationwide.
Updated Memory Stick media will start shipping this spring in 32MB, 64MB, 128MB and 256MB (total 128MBx2) capacities. A striking cobalt-blue color will distinguish the new line from its purple predecessor.
When used with compatible (4-pin parallel), high-speed Memory Stick media-enabled hardware, users can enjoy read speeds that are up to four times faster than current standard Memory Stick media. The new media will allow users to speed up viewing their digital images on a compatible camera and streaming video storage. Sony expects device compatibility to remain constant or even increase, given that the media will be interoperable with both serial and parallel interfaces.
Sony Press Release 11/02/04
NEW SONY PHOTO VAULT MINI CD-R STATION ENABLES PORTABLE DIRECT-FROM-CAMERA CD BURNING
Features Standard USB Interface for Direct Image Downloads, Allows Viewing of Digital Images on TV
LAS VEGAS (PMA, Booth #M30), Feb. 11, 2004 - Offering a portable, PC-free solution for burning photos directly from digital still cameras to mini CD-R, Sony introduces Photo Vault Mini CD-R Station.
Weighing only 8 ounces, Photo Vault Mini CD-R Station adds convenience and flexibility to digital photography storage. Users can burn images directly from their camera to 8 cm mini CD-R using the Photo Vault device’s standard USB interface. Photo Vault also features a built-in photo album capability to display photos on a television screen using a television’s standard AV input.
“Photo Vault is the perfect travel companion for anyone who owns a digital camera,” said Michael Lucas, director of marketing for consumer and convergent media products in Sony Electronics’ Media and Applications Solutions Division. “It eliminates the worries of exceeding the capacity on a camera’s memory card, or of needing a computer to store and view your digital pictures. Additionally, the mini CD-R format can instantly preserve the images for archiving, sharing or future printing.”
Sony Press Release 21/10/03
UPTOWN CHIC MEETS DOWNTOWN FUN IN SONY’S NEW CYBER-SHOT `U’
Ultra-Slim U40 Camera Captures Looks
SAN DIEGO, Oct. 21, 2003 ? Lipstick: check. Car keys: check. Stylish camera to capture an evening with friends: check?if you have the latest Cyber-shot? U-series camera from Sony.
Expected in January for about $200, the stylish U40 camera will come in four colors (silver, black, dark blue and red) that match your mood or your outfit.
Slide the front cover sideways and the two-megapixel camera comes to life in under one second?giving enough time to capture candid shots.
“Life happens in the blink of an eye, and the U40 camera is ready when you are,” said Steve Haber, senior vice president for Sony Electronics’ Personal Mobile and Imaging Division. “It’s about the size of a candy bar, but full featured enough to ensure that the shots turn out great.”
Canon Press Release - 08/09/03
The PictBridge revolution: Introducing the Bubble Jet i455 and i475D Direct Print photo printers
PictBridge compatible Direct Print photo printers keep coming from Canon.
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of its latest PictBridge compatible photo printers, the Canon Bubble Jet i455 and i475D. The two new models have been launched in line with Canon’s position at the forefront of the drive towards complete PictBridge compatibility. Any PictBridge compliant digital camera can connect and print directly to these compatible printers, regardless of brand and without the need for a PC. The Bubble Jet i455 and i475D replace the Bubble Jet i450 and i470D respectively.
With a print head nozzle density up to seven times that of competing brands and a nozzle apperture size 40% smaller than Canon’s nearest rival, the i455 and i475D use a 2pl droplet size to deliver unsurpassed 4800x1200 dpi* professional photo quality as standard. The same technology that delivers tiny 2pl ink droplets and the highest nozzle density also makes these easily the fastest printers in their class - both models boast incredible 18ppm mono and 12 ppm colour print speeds.
“Not only do the Bubble Jet i455 and i475D deliver the best quality photo prints and highest speeds in their class,” says Malcolm Hills, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging in the UK and Ireland, “they embody our commitment to producing cameras and printers that work together with whatever device our customers might have or choose to have in the future.”
Bob Atkins over at Photo.net has published a very informative article which I’m sure will prove to be a valuable resource for all new digital photographers. And some of the information will help clear up a few misconceptions that more experienced photographers may have :-)
” In this basic guide to digital camera technology we hope to try to give digital beginners at least some basis to use in deciding which digital camera is appropriate for them. When shopping for a digital camera it’s at least good to know what the basic terms like white balance, pixel, ppi and dpi mean and how they affect image and print quality. It’s also important to know the difference between things like optical zoom and digital zoom as well as the advantages and disadvantages between storage formats such as Compact Flash (CF), Microdrives, Sony Memory Stick, Secure Digital (SD), Multimedia and camera interface technologies such as USB 1.1, USB 2.0 and Firewire IEEE 1394.”