Canon EOS C50 Review

We've kicked off our review of the Canon EOS C50 cinema camera with an overview, product shots, sample images, specifications and more...

Canon EOS R5 Mark II Review

The EOS R5 Mark II is the eagerly awaited successor to Canon's hottest full-frame camera, the R5, which was released way back in 2020. Still offering 45 megapixel resolution and 8K video, the R5 II ups the ante by greatly improving the auto-focus system, burst shooting speeds, image stabilisation and video recording performance. Check out our in-depth Canon R5 Mark II review, complete with full-size sample JPEG and RAW photos!

Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8L IS USM Review

The RF 100-300mm F2.8L IS USM is a new professional telephoto zoom lens for Canon EOS R-series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Is this the ultimate telephoto zoom lens for wildlife and sports photographers? Read our Canon RF 100-300mm review now to find out...

Sony A6700 vs Canon EOS R7 - Which is Better?

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.

Sony A7R V Review

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...

Nikon Z8 vs Sony Alpha 1 - Head-to-head Comparison

The Nikon Z8 that was announced in May 2023 and the Sony Alpha 1 that was revealed in January 2021 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 Nikon Z8 versus the Sony Alpha 1.

Canon EOS R8 Review

The new Canon EOS R8 full-frame mirrorless camera integrates the image quality and autofocusing from the more expensive EOS R6 Mark II with the smaller, lighter and simpler body of the cheaper EOS RP. Is the resulting camera a resounding success or a terrible mish-mash? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon EOS R8 review...

Canon EOS R50 Review

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.

Fujifilm X-T5 vs Canon EOS R7 - Head-to-head Comparison

The brand new Fujifilm X-T5 and the Canon EOS R7 share similar key specifications and features, so which APS-C sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Fujifilm X-T5 versus the Canon EOS R7.

Sony A7R V vs Canon EOS R5 - Head-to-head Comparison

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.

Canon EOS R10 Review

The Canon EOS R10 is a tiny new mirrorless camera with an APS-C sensor that can shoot at up to 23fps and record 4K/60p video. Can the R10 compete with the likes of the Fujifilm X-S10, Nikon Z50 and Sony A6400? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon R10 review...

Canon EOS R7 Review

Canon is back in the APS-C game with the much-anticipated launch of the EOS R7, a very capable prosumer camera with a clear focus on speed. Billed as the mirrorless successor to the much loved EOS 7D Mark II DSLR, does the new R7 have what it takes to compete against the likes of Fujifilm and Sony? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon R7 review...

Fujifilm X-H2S vs X-T4 - Head-to-head Comparison

At first glance the brand new flagship Fujifilm X-H2S and the 2-year-old Fujifilm X-T4 have similar specifications, so which APS-C sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Fujifilm X-H2S versus the X-T4.

Leica M11 Review

The Leica M11 is a brand new digital rangefinder camera for 2022, offering a 60 megapixel full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, 64Gb built-in memory, longer battery life and USB-C charging. Oh, and did we mention that Leica have dropped the removable baseplate, a feature that has adorned M-series cameras for literally decades? Find out if this is the best ever fusion of old and new tech by reading our in-depth Leica M11 review, complete with full-size sample photos.

Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S Review

The new Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is the first ever super-telephoto lens for Nikon Z-mount mirrorless cameras. But has it been worth the rather long wait? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z 100-400mm review, complete with full-size sample photos...

Flagship Nikon Z9 Full-frame Mirrorless Camera with 8K Video in 2021

The Nikon Z9 has just been unveiled, a new flagship 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera that will sit above the Z7 II and Z6 II in Nikon's Z-series range.

Canon R3 vs Sony A9 II - Head-to-head Comparison

The Sony Alpha 9 II and the brand new Canon EOS R3 that was unveiled today have similar key specifications, 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 R3 versus the Sony A9 II.

Canon R3 vs Sony A1 - Head-to-head Comparison

The Sony Alpha 1 that went on sale in March 2021 and the brand new Canon EOS R3 that was unveiled today 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 Canon R3 versus the Sony A1.

Canon R3 vs Nikon Z9 - Head-to-head Comparison

The brand new Canon EOS R3 that was announced today and the Nikon Z9 that was revealed earlier in 2021 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 Canon R3 versus the Nikon Z9.

Sony A1 Review

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...

Fujifilm GFX 100S Review

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...

Canon RF 70-200mm F4L IS USM Review

The RF 70-200mm F4L is a brand new telephoto zoom lens for Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras that's smaller and more affordable than the F2.8 version. Read our in-depth Canon RF 70-200mm F4L lens review, complete with a gallery of full-size sample images, to find out what this remarkable lens is capable of...

Sony A1 vs A7R IV vs A9 II vs A7S III - Head-to-head Comparison

The all-singing, all-dancing Sony A1, also known as the Sony Alpha 1, that was announced this week is billed as "one camera without compromise", the pinnacle of Sony's extensive full-frame camera range and potentially able to be the only camera that you'll ever need. We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Sony A1 versus the A7R IV, A9 II and the A7S III to find out if it really can out-perform them all...

Sony A1 vs Canon R5 - Head-to-head Comparison

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.

Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM Review

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM joins the similar RF 35mm F1.8 Macro as an affordable prime lens for the EOS R mirrorless camera system. As well as being ideal for portraiture, the new RF 85mm also doubles up as a 1:2 magnification macro lens, and it very usefully offers up to 8 stops of image stabilisation when paired with the EOS R5 or R6 cameras. Read our Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro review now to find out if this is a must-buy lens for EOS R owners...

Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM Review

The RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM is a new professional telephoto zoom lens for Canon EOS R-series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Is this the perfect all-in-one super-telephoto zoom lens for wildlife and sports photographers? Read our Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM review now to find out...

Panasonic S5 Review

The Panasonic S5 is a brand new hybrid full-frame mirrorless camera that's equally as capable at shooting both stills and video. In an ever more crowded market, does the Lumix S5 offer enough to stand out against the likes of the Sony A7 III, Canon EOS R and Nikon Z6? Read our in-depth review of the Panasonic S5 to find out, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.

Canon Reimagine's Mirrorless - All of our Coverage

Canon have released 10 new mirrorless products today, including two new EOS R cameras and four new RF lenses - and we've already tried them all out! Here's a roundup of all our coverage of one of Canon's biggest product launches in years...

Canon Launch Four New RF Lenses and Two Extenders

Canon have launched four new RF lenses and two RF extenders today, bringing telephoto capabilities to the RF line-up as well as additional portrait and macro photography creative possibilities. The four lenses are the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM, RF 600mm F11 IS STM and RF 800mm F11 IS STM, and the RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM.

Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM First Impressions

We've spent a little time with the brand new RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM zoom lens for Canon's full-frame mirrorless cameras, so ahead of our full review, check out our first impressions now...

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 A3+ Photo Printer

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 is a high-quality, professional A3+ photo printer with a space-saving design. Aimed at semi-pros and aspiring photographers, small studios and photo labs, the Canon PRO-300 can produce gallery quality prints from the convenience of a desktop.

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 is priced at £699.99 / €799.99 / $899.99.

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type-B Memory Cards

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.

Canon is No.1 in Interchangeable-lens Digital Cameras for 17th Consecutive Year

Canon has again maintained the number one share of the global market for DSLR and Mirrorless cameras for the 17th consecutive year, running from 2003 to 2019.

From the debut of the breakthrough EOS 300D in September 2003, Canon has continued to launch a range of groundbreaking products. Canon released six interchangeable-lens camera models in 2019.

Canon EOS R5 Flagship Mirrorless Camera, 8K Video, 20fps Burst Shooting, In-Body Image Stabilisation, Dual Card Slots

Canon have announced the development of the new EOS R5 flagship mirrorless camera, which offers cinematic-quality 8K movie recording using the full width of the sensor at up to 30p and support for Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, high-speed 20fps electronic / 12fps mechanical burst shooting, unparalleled in-body image stabilisation which works in combination with the lens stabilisation system, dual memory card slots, advanced animal AF recognising dogs, cats and birds, and support for the new image.canon cloud platform service.

The Canon EOS R5 will also have a fully articulating LCD screen and a thumb-operated AF joystick, rather than the divisive MFn bar used on the EOS R.

Richard Shepherd, Pro Product Marketing Senior Manager, said: “We’re confident that the EOS R5 will shake up the global mirrorless market and we’re excited to see the content photographers and filmmakers will be able to capture with this outstanding new device in their hands...The EOS R5 will become the new flagship Canon mirrorless camera, delivering exceptional image quality and video capture."

The official launch date and price of the exciting new Canon EOS R5 camera have yet to be announced.

A preview of the Canon R5 will be on display at the 2020 WPPI Show (February 25-27) in Las Vegas.

Reference exhibits for the EOS R5 and RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM, Extender RF 1.4x and Extender RF 2x will be on display in the Canon booth at the CP+ Camera and Photo Imaging Show 2020, to be held from February 27 to March 1 at the Pacifico Yokohama convention hall in Yokohama, Japan.

Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Launched, RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM in Development

The new Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM is a lightweight, compact and versatile zoom lens that's the perfect partner for the EOS RP mirrorless camera.

This versatile and affordable zoom boasts 5-stops of Image Stabilization, an STM motor that's well-suited to both stills and video, and is smaller and lighter than the EF version.

It also features a brand new 0.5x “Centre focus macro” mode, which offers 13cm macro mode when using Manual Focus at the 24mm focal length. Only the centre-point is in perfect focus and there will be some vignetting, but this new mode opens up the world of macro shooting.

It weighs in at just 880g combined with the EOS RP camera with battery and memory card fitted, making it an ideal entry-level kit choice.

The Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM will be available from April priced at £459.99 / €549.99.

In the US, the Canon EOS RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM lens has an estimated retail price of $399.99 for the lens only. It will also be sold as a body-and-lens kit with the EOS R and RP cameras.

Canon have also announced the development of the new RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM super-zoom lens, and also the Extender RF 1.4x and Extender RF 2x.

Canon has also confirmed that it will release five more RF lenses this year (as yet unspecified), bringing the total to nine new RF lenses in 2020.

Canon EOS M200 Review

The Canon EOS M200 is an interchangeable lens camera aimed at new photographers. The M200 offers 24.1 megapixels, 4K video recording, a 180-degree tilting LCD and a touch-screen interface. Read our in-depth Canon EOS M200 review now to find out if it's the perfect camera for beginners...

Nikon Z50 First Impressions

Photography Blog attended the UK launch of the new Nikon Z50 mirrorless camera in central London - find out what we thought of Nikon's brand new camera by reading our detailed first impressions...

ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate 2020

ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate 2020 offers an abundance of new and updated features, including facial recognition and detection features, focus stacking, HDR, blended clone, and text tool updates.

ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate 2020 is available for a lifetime license for $149.99 USD or through a subscription starting at $69/year, which provides users access to regular updates and upgrades.

Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II Review

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...

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III Review

Canon's PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a brand new compact camera that offers a lot of bang for your buck, for both stills photographers and vloggers alike. Find out just what the latest generation of this camera is capable of by reading our in-depth Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III review, complete with full-size sample JPEG and Raw images...

Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D and Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 for Nikon Z and Canon RF

The Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D is the widest f/2 lens for Nikon Z and Canon RF mount cameras, while the Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 is the widest full frame zoom lens for Nikon Z mount cameras (this lens will not be available in Canon RF mount).

The Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D and Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 are currently available to order, priced at $849 each.

Nik Collection 2 by DxO

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.

Zeiss Otus 100mm f/1.4 Review

The Zeiss Otus 100mm f/1.4 is a new short-telephoto prime lens for Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras that's designed to be the the ultimate portrait lens. The manual-focus Otus 100mm features a fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, 9 aperture blades, and superlative build quality. Read our Zeiss Otus 100mm f/1.4 review now to find out if it's worth the £3600/$4999 price tag...

Canon EOS 250D Review

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...

Zeiss Otus 100mm F1.4 DSLR Lens

The Zeiss Otus 100mm F1.4 is a new telephoto DSLR lens designed for professional photographers who expect unrestricted edge-to-edge image quality that extends across the entire aperture range.

The Zeiss Otus 100mm F1.4 is available now priced at £3,999 / 4,500 Euros / 4,500 US$.

Canon EOS 250D / Rebel SL3 DSLR Camera, Price, Specifications, Release Date

The Canon EOS 250D / Rebel SL3 is the world’s lightest DSLR with a moveable screen. Key features of the EOS 250D (Europe) and Rebel SL3 (USA) include a guided user interface for easy operation, a 24.1 Megapixel Dual Pixel CMOS APS-C sensor, DIGIC 8 processor, 4K movie capability, super-fast and responsive autofocus, and excellent connectivity to smart devices.

In Europe, the Canon EOS 250D will be available in black, silver and white from 25th April 2019 for £529.99/ €599.99 body only and £599.99/ €709.99 for the body with a EF-S 18-55 f/4-5.6 IS STM lens.

In the US, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 will be available toward the end of April for purchase in black and white color options for an estimated retail price of $599.99 for the body only and $749.99 for the body with a EF-S 18-55 f/4-5.6 IS STM lens.

Canon EF-M 32mm F/1.4 STM Review

The Canon EF-M 32mm F/1.4 STM is a new fast prime lens for Canon's EOS M series of APS-C sensor cameras. It offers a focal length equivalent to 51mm on a 35mm full-frame camera, maximum F1.4 aperture, STM stepping motor, 235g weight and 7-blade diaphragm. Find out if this is a must-have lens for Canon EOS M fans by reading our in-depth Canon EF-M 32mm F/1.4 STM review...

CamFi Pro Plus Offers Wireless Tethering for 500+ Cameras

CamFi Pro Plus supports wireless tethering feature for 500+ cameras, including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fuji, Pentax and more. All DSLR cameras which support USB tethering can be supported by CamFi Pro Plus.

The price of CamFi Pro Plus is $339. All existing customers of CamFi Pro can order the upgrade service for $40.

Capture One 12 Introduces New Interface, Masking Tools and Improved Workflow

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 is Now Available

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.

Using Sigma Lenses with the Canon EOS R

Sigma have issued a lens compatibility notice for their lenses when used with the new Canon EOS R mirrorless camera. There are no known issues with general operation, but Sigma do state that the Digital Lens Optimizer located within the in-camera Lens Aberration Correction function cannot be used and must be set to Off. This will be fixed by Sigma in a future firmware update.

Venus Optics Launch 8 New Laowa Lenses at Photokina 2018

Venus Optics have unveil 8 new and unique Laowa lenses, including the 25-100 T/2.9 Professional Cine lens, the first professional cinema style zoom lens offered by the company. Together with the 4 new lenses showed earlier in Beijing P&E, a total of 12 new Laowa lenses will make their European debut at Photokina next week.

All 12 new lenses will make their European debut in Venus Optics’ booth (Hall 2.1, D-040) at Photokina, Cologne during 26th-29th Sept. Pricing and ship date are to be confirmed.

Think Tank Photo Upgrades Hydrophobia Rain Covers​ and Introduces Emergency Rain Covers

Think Tank Photo have upgraded their Hydrophobia Rain Covers, which feature waterproof construction that protects camera gear from downpours and dusty conditions.

Think Tank Photo's new Emergency Rain Covers are a simple, compact solution for protecting photo gear from sudden downpours or dusty conditions. These seam-sealed rain covers can be quickly and easily deployed when outdoor conditions change.

Elinchrom Transmitter PRO for Fujifilm Available on September 18th

The Transmitter PRO for Fujifilm cameras is available on September 18th, which provides full compatibility with Elinchrom flash units and includes TTL functionality for the latest ELB 500 TTL. The price will be $249 USD / €249 EUR / £229 GBP.

Fujifilm X-T3 First Impressions

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...

Think Tank Photo Retrospective V2.0 Shoulder Bags

Think Tank Photo’s upgraded Retrospective shoulder bags feature increased photography gear security and lighter weight. The Retrospective V2.0 retain their classic look but include many innovative new features. Keeping the soft, form-fitting design, they are lighter than the original. For greater security, they added a zippered opening under the main flap that tucks away when not in use. Each bag has a dedicated interior tablet or laptop pocket, luggage handle pass-through, and a compressible water bottle pocket.

Nissin MG10 Hammerhead Flash

The Nissin MG10 is an advanced NAS 2.4Ghz wireless strobe for on-camera and studio shooting. Available now for $599, the Nissin MG10 flash is a high power (80GN, 165 w/s) strobe in the Nissin Air System.

Aurora HDR 2018 Update Brings New Tools, Improved Performance, and Loupedeck+ Integration

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.

Canon EOS 4000D Review

The brand new Canon EOS 4000D (also known as the Digital Rebel T100 in North America) is the cheapest ever Canon DSLR camera, clearly designed to tempt smartphone users into buying their first interchangeable lens camera. But does it cut too many corners in order to hit such an aggressive price-point? Find out by reading our in-depth Canon EOS 4000D review.

The Wex Photo Video Show

The Wex Photo Video Show is an exciting new event taking place from Friday 29 to Saturday 30 June 2018 at its flagship store and showroom in London E1. The event is held over two complete days packed with practical workshops, hands-on demonstrations, inspiring expert talks and special guest appearances from some of the most prominent names in the business. Entrance is free.

Kodak PixPro AZ901 Review

The Kodak PixPro AZ901 superzoom camera has a jaw-dropping 90x optical zoom lens, which offers a maximum telephoto length of 1980mm - try doing that with your smartphone! Other stand-out features include 5fps burst shooting, an articulating LCD screen, RAW file support and wi-fi connectivity. Find out if the Kodak PixPro AZ901 can live up to its far-reaching potential by reading our in-depth review...

Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 FE Zoom, 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO, 17mm f/4 GFX Zero-D and 4mm f/2.8 Fisheye MFT Lenses

Venus Optics has announced 4 new and unique lenses - the Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 FE Zoom, 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO,  17mm f/4 GFX Zero-D and 4mm f/2.8 Fisheye MFT lenses.

The Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 FE Zoom is currently the widest zoom lens available for Sony full frame E-mount cameras. The 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Macro is the 2nd member of Laowa 2:1 macro line-up. The Laowa 17mm f/4 GFX is currently the widest available native lens option for Fujifilm G-mount cameras. The 4mm f/2.8 Fisheye MFT delivers aunique circular fisheye field of view on Micro four thirds cameras.

All four lenses will be available for trial at Venus Optics’ booth (T225) in Beijing P&E Imaging fair during 3rd-6th May 2019. They are expected to be shipped in mid/late 2018.

Capture One 11.1 Provides New Resource Hub, Expanded Camera Support and Improved Workflow

Capture One 11.1 is a new feature release to the industry’s premier RAW conversion and image editing software. Improved Styles and presets workflow, support for 11 new cameras, including Sony A7 Mk III and Fuji X-H1 and 10 new lenses, including Tamron lenses for both Nikon and Canon, and an all-new Resource Hub are among the latest updates.   

Canon EOS 2000D Review

The Canon EOS 2000D / Digital Rebel T7 is a new entry-level DSLR aimed squarely at new users looking to dip their toe into the world of interchangeable lens cameras. Does the EOS 2000D offer a step-up in quality from a compact camera or smartphone, and can it take on and beat its main rival, the Nikon D3400? Find out by reading our in-depth Canon EOS 2000D / Digital Rebel T7 review...

Elinchrom ​ELB 500 TTL Portable Battery Pack

The Elinchrom ELB 500 TTL is an incredibly portable and powerful battery pack combining 500Ws of power with a feature set including TTL, HSS, Active Charging and Full Asymmetry with built-in Skyport. This new ELB is designed to empower the workflow of photographers both in studio and on location.

Canon EOS M50 First Impressions

Last week we spent some time shooting with the new Canon EOS M50 compact system camera in London, UK, at the official Canon press event for the M50, EOS 4000D, and EOS 2000D cameras. Check out our first impressions of using the Canon M50 camera now...

Canon EOS 2000D and EOS 4000D DSLR Cameras for Beginners

The Canon EOS 2000D and EOS 4000D are new entry-level DSLR cameras. Both cameras offer APS-C sensors, DIGIC 4+ image processors, seamless Wi-Fi connectivity, 3fps continuous shooting, straightforward in-camera feature guides, wi-fi connectivity, 500 picture battery life and Full HD movie recording. The EOS 2000D (Rebel T7) additionally features a new 24.1 megapixel APS-C sensor, 7.5 cm LCD screen, Near Field Communication (NFC) and a metal lens mount, while the EOS 4000D (Rebel T100) has an 18 megapixel APS-C sensor, 6.8 cm LCD screen and a plastic lens mount.

Both DSLR cameras will be available to purchase from March 2018:

• EOS 2000D body only - £369.99 / €429.99
• EOS 200D + EF-S 18-55mm lens - £469.99 / €549.99 / $549.99
• EOS 4000D body only - £329.99 / €379.99
• EOS 400D + EF-S 18-55mm IS lens - £369.99 / €429.99

Canon TS-E 135mm f/4L MACRO Review

The new Canon TS-E 135mm f/4L MACRO introduces a new focal length for Canon’s specialist range of tilt shift optics. This professional L-series lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 49cm, tilt, shift and rotate movements, plus 1:2 macro functionality. Read our Canon 135mm tilt shift lens review now, complete with full-size sample images...

Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III Review

The Canon Powershot G1 X Mark III is a small camera with a large sensor and a big price tag - is this the best pocket camera for the enthusiast? Find out by reading our in-depth Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III review...

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV Review

​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...

Canon Produces 90 Millionth EOS Camera and 130 Millionth EF Lens

Canon today announced they have reached two major production milestones — a cumulative total of 90 million interchangeable-lens EOS cameras and 130 million EF-series interchangeable lenses. The EOS 5D Mark IV (pictured) was the 90 millionth EOS Series camera range to be produced, while an EF16-35mm f/2.8L III USM became the company’s 130 millionth interchangeable lens. Canon’s EOS system debuted alongside the EF series of interchangeable lenses in March 1987 as the world’s first fully-electronic mount system for film AF SLR cameras. Over the years, both product lines have continued to expand, gaining support among users ranging from first-time users to professionals. Production accelerated in the early 2000’s with the spread of digital SLR cameras. Canon’s interchangeable-lens digital cameras have maintained the No. 1 share of the global market for 14 consecutive years since 2003.

Adorama at PDN PhotoPlus Expo 2017

Adorama will be showcasing select photography gear and accessories from Adorama-exclusive brands Flashpoint, Orlit, 3Pod and Glow at PDN PhotoPlus Expo 2017. Only sold at Adorama, Flashpoint is known for its budget-friendly studio flash solutions. Attendees to the PhotoPlus Expo can visit the Adorama booth for a demo of the newest monolights, including the Studio 400 and Studio 300, the XPLOR 600 HSS TTL battery-powered monolight (pictured), the eVOLV 200 TTL Pocket Flash and the Rapid 600 HSS monolight with built-in radio remote system, alongside additional Flashpoint accessories. Orlit offers a lineup of TTL and HSS studio monolights designed for Canon RT, Nikon and Sony photographers looking for powerful lighting with wireless control. PPE attendees can get demos of the Orlit RoveLight RT 610 TTL monolight, the ORLIT RoveLight RT 601 HSS battery-powered monolight, and the ORLIT RoveLight RT 800AC TTL studio monolight with integrated RT radio remote.

Sigma to Reveal Brand New Lens at PDN Photo Plus Expo

Sigma will showcase its full range of Sigma Global Vision lenses, including a brand-new addition to the line, at the upcoming PDN PhotoPlus Expo 2017 Expo held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City from 26-28 October 2017. The company will also have on hand its Sigma Cine high-speed Primes and Zooms as well as the Foveon sensor-based sd Quattro and Quattro H cameras. Last but not least, a distinguished line-up of Sigma Pro speakers will take to the Sigma stage and offer attendees a behind-the-lens look at the techniques and technology that captured some of the year’s most outstanding photographs in the areas of aviation, editorial, glamour, landscapes, travel and weddings (click through / scroll down for the schedule). PPE 2017 attendees who visit Sigma at booth 837 will have a chance to enter and win a Sigma grand giveaway – a 24-70mm F2.8 Art lens – an MSRP value of $1299.

Meike MK-85mm f/2.8 Macro

Meike have unveiled the manual-focus MK-85mm f/2.8 Macro lens for Canon, Fujifilm, Micro Four Thirds, Nikon and Sony cameras. Weighing in at 500 grams, the Meike MK-85mm f/2.8 Macro lens offers a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:1.5 and a minimum focus distance of 25cm, and also doubles as a medium telephoto prime. The optical formula comprises 11 elements in 8 groups, with nano-technology multi-layer coating. The suggested retail price is $299.99.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II Review

The new EOS 6D Mark II is Canon's latest 35mm full-frame DSLR camera. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to the EOS 5D Mark IV, the EOS 6D Mark II features 26.2 megapixels, latest DIGIC 7 processor, 45 point AF system and Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. Read our expert Canon EOS 6D Mark II review now...

Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS Review

The new Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS is a premium super-telephoto zoom lens for the Sony Alpha full-frame compact system camera range. Read our expert Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS review to find out if this lens is an essential purchase for Sony Alpha full-frame owners...

Canon EOS 200D Review

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...

Canon EOS 800D Review

The new Canon EOS 800D / Rebel T7i DSLR camera is positioned between the cheaper EOS 1300D and more expensive EOS 77D, attempting to offer most of the same features as the 77D in a more beginner-friendly design. Find out if it succeeds by reading our expert Canon EOS 800D / Rebel T7i review...

Jessops Launch Share Your Summer 2017

After more than 1,800 entries lass summer, Jessops are bringing back their #ShareYourSummer campaign. From 1 June – 2 August, the company is offering 9 budding photographers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their work in 56 nationwide store windows on major UK high streets and shopping centres, plus an invite to an exclusive Jessops and Sony event, where the overall winner will be announced and set to receive an incredible £3,000 prize. Rob Murray, Marketing Director at Jessops comments: “Now running in its second year, our Share Your Summer campaign is designed to give photographers from all walks of life the opportunity to exhibit a photo they are really proud of across 56 Jessops shops in major UK cities, shopping centres and high streets. It is clear that the nation’s passion for photography is ever-present with people posting photographs daily on social media. However, it is rare that anyone would ever get the opportunity to share an exceptional image any further than this. We want everyone to have the opportunity to have their very own exhibition where all are invited to view it.”

Canon EOS 77D Review

The new Canon EOS 77D DSLR slots in between the cheaper EOS 800D and more expensive EOS 80D, attempting to blend together the best of both cameras. Find out if it succeeds by reading our expert Canon EOS 77D digital SLR review...

Profoto B1X

The powerful new Profoto B1X is a successor to the award-winning Profoto B1 on-location flash. Like its predecessor, the B1X is a 500Ws cordless light, offering TTL metering with Canon, Olympus, Nikon and Sony cameras, in connection with a hotshoe-mounted Air Remote TTL unit. The new model's LED modelling light offers 80% more light output, the battery holds 50% more power and the B1X boasts the widest HSS range available on any flash (up to 1/8,000s with 9 f-stop power range). "We want image creators everywhere to be able to realise their vision," the company says. "If that’s halfway up a mountain, overpowering the sun in the middle of the desert or hanging off a rock overlooking the Mediterranean – then so be it." In addition to the B1X light, Profoto are also launching two new OCF reflectors. Adding hard light to the shaping palette of Profoto OCF Light Shaping Tools, the OCF Zoom Reflector and the OCF Magnum Reflector are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for shooting on location. The OCF Zoom Reflector is so portable it even fits into the B1 case while mounted on the B1 or B1X.

Sony A9 Hands-on Review

The Sony A9 is a new 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera aimed at professional sports and action photographers. It boasts a 24.2 megapixel stacked CMOS sensor, expandable ISO range of 50-204800, 693 focal plane phase detection AF points, 20fps burst shooting, 5-axis in-body image stabilisation and 4K UHD video recording. We've spent some time getting to know the Sony A9, so check out our Hands-on Review of Sony's latest full-frame mirrorless camera...

Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Review

The Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II is a truly pocketable compact camera with a large 1-inch image sensor and 3x zoom lens. The G9 X Mark II also offers continuous shooting speed of 8.2fps in raw shooting mode, built-in wi-fi, NFC and now Bluetooth connectivity, 1080p HD video at 60fps with stereo sound, a 3 inch touchscreen LCD, and a full range of manual shooting modes. Read the World's first online Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II review now...

ON1 Photo RAW Version 2017.0.2

ON1 has released the first major update to ON1 Photo RAW 2017. The application offers one of the fastest ways to cull photos making it easy to tag, rate, make color and tone adjustments, or add effects to photos. The non-destructive workflow utilises sidecar files to store edits and allows photographers the ability to edit and adjust photos locally, in the cloud, or on file servers. This also allows photographers to access their photos from multiple computers and/or allow colleagues to access and edit the same photos from where they left off. Version 2017.0.2 includes support for over a dozen new cameras - including the Olympus SH-2, E-M5 MKII and E-M1 MKII, the Pentax K5 II, the Nikon D5600, the Panasonic DMC-FZ2000, DMC-G2, DMC-G5, DMC-LX15 and DMC-TZ80, the Leica M10 and Leica TL, and the Canon EOS 500D -, improved raw processing results, updated support for Fujifilm camera files, better highlight recovery, and other performance tuning and bug fixes.

Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2

The Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a new full-frame telephoto zoom lens with an all-new optical design and "dramatically faster" AF speed. New features include eBAND Coating, a moisture-proof and dust-resistant construction, fluorine coating and compatibility with teleconverters. The optical design of the new lens consists of 23 elements in 17 groups. The deployment of XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements thoroughly eliminate chromatic aberrations, while ensuring uniform image quality even on the periphery of the image frame. Bokeh has been enhanced to deliver outstanding background effects across the entire zoom range. The improved Vibration Correction system provides a 5-stop advantage over non-stabilised lenses. Availablity is slated for late February, with pricing to be confirmed.

Sony A99 II Review

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...

Nikon KeyMission 170 Review

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

Adobe Camera Raw 9.8

Adobe Camera Raw 9.8 is now available through the update mechanism in Photoshop CC and the Creative Cloud application. This update adds support for the Canon EOS M5, Fujifilm XA3, Google Pixel, Google Pixel XL, Hasselblad X1D, Leica TL, Nikon D5600, Olympus EM1 Mark II (preliminary), Olympus PEN EPL8, Panasonic LUMIX DMCFZ2500 (DMCFZ2000 and DMCFZH1), Pentax K70 (pictured), Samsung Galaxy S7, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Sony Alpha a6500 (ILCE 6500), Sony Alpha a99 II (ILCA99M2) and Sony DSCRX100 Mark V cameras, and dozens of new camera-lens profiles. Creative Cloud users can select Help>Updates to use the update mechanism in the Creative Cloud app.

Adobe Lightroom CC 2015.8

Adobe Lightroom CC 2015.8 is now available. This version introduces a new view mode witin the Develop Module called Reference View, which allows you to compare 2 different images in order to make them visually consistent. This is helpful when making a group of images from a single event look similar or setting the white balance appropriately in mixed lighting conditions. Additionally, Adobe Lightroom CC 2015.8 adds support for raw image files generated by the Canon EOS M5, Fujifilm X-A3, Google Pixel, Google Pixel XL, Hasselblad X1D, Leica TL, Nikon D5600, Olympus E-M1 Mark II (preliminary), Olympus PEN E-PL8, Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ2500 (DMC-FZ2000 and DMC-FZH1), Pentax K-70, Samsung Galaxy S7, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Sony Alpha a6500 (ILCE­-6500). Sony Alpha a99 II (ILCA-99M2) and Sony DSC-RX100 Mark V cameras, plus tethered shooting support for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV SLR. Creative Cloud users can select Help > Updates to use the update mechanism in the Creative Cloud app.

Canon Selects Guinnevere Shuster for Final Chapter of Rebel with A Cause Campaign

Animal shelter advocate and photographer Guinnevere Shuster has been selected as the latest "real life rebel" in Canon's Rebel With A Cause campaign. To build awareness of the overcrowding within shelters and the 3,000 animals euthanised each year*, Guinnevere captured a "dog's best day" with shelter dog, Willa. “Four years ago, I started photographing shelter dogs. With millions of animals still in shelters looking for their forever home, I wanted to try and make a difference and do my part to change people’s opinions of animal shelters and their residents,” said Shuster. “It’s been amazing working with Canon to change the portrayal of shelter animals by showcasing how to use photography to capture dogs in their natural state, having fun, rather than the stereotypical pictures that show shelter animals behind ‘bars.’” Click through / scroll down to watch the full #WillasBestDay film, shot entirely on Canon EOS Rebel T6i DSLR cameras.

Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Sports Review

The Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Sports is a new professional hyper-telephoto prime lens for DSLR cameras. Costing thousands of dollars/pounds less than comparable lenses from Nikon and Canon, is this third-party lens worth considering? Read our Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Sports review to find out...

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Review

The long-awaited Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR has now arrived, improving on its predecessor, the incredibly popular 5D Mark III, in almost every way. Does the new 5D Mark IV offer enough to justify the £3629 / $3499 asking price? Read our Canon EOS 5D Mark IV review to find out...

Photokina 2016 Highlights

Phew, what a day! Press Day at Photokina 2016 turned out to be much bigger than we expected, with flagship products seemingly being announced on the hour, every hour. So here's a handy roundup of all the highlights if you haven't been able to keep up. We'll be adding more products as they're announced.

Day 2 Update: We've taken a closer look at the Fujifilm GFX 50S, Sony A99 II and Canon EOS M5 cameras and Sigma's new lenses, as well as having an in-depth discussion with Olympus about the new flagship E-M1 Mark II camera. There have also been further announcements from the likes of SanDisk, Lexar, Phase One, Metz, Bowens, Broncolor and Kodak, all of which are listed below.

Day 3 Update: We've been busy bringing you hands-on photos of all the important new cameras, lenses and accessories that have been launched at Photokina, plus taking time to chat with Canon, Nikon and Sigma.

Day 4 Update: More hands-on looks at more interesting new products, including a variety of lenses, plus an interview with Kodak about their new 4K360VR camera.

Day 5 Update: An interview with Hasselblad, plus hands-on photos of 3 Nikon Coolpix cameras, an array of Zeiss, Meyer-Optik and Voigtländer lenses and a number of interesting accessories.

Bowens Generation X Flash Range

Bowens has launched the first products in its new Generation X flash range. The line-up comprises two new flash systems: XMT – an all-in-one battery unit for location lighting, and XMS – engineered to be the go-to system for studio photographers. The all-new 500Ws XMT (£1,199) boasts TTL and high speed sync functionality (up to 1/8000s) compatible with Canon, Nikon and Sony cameras: 9-stops of flash power adjustment; short flash durations: faster recycle times than ever before (as rapid as 0.01s): easy swap lithium-ion battery provides up to 500 full power flashes per charge: rear curtain sync; sync delay and strobe mode allow creative set-ups on the move. The XMS, available in 500,750 and 1000Ws models ( (£799, £899  and £999, respectively) all fully controllable via the XMSR 2.4 Ghz radio control and trigger) features multi-voltage operation. These units offer faster recycling times and shorter flash durations. The XMSR model includes Bowens' "Sync Offset" functionality, enabling photographers to embrace any brand of camera to shoot at high sync speeds – up to 1/8000s.

Phottix Indra500LC

The Phottix Indra500LC is the first studio light compatible with Canon’s radio flash system. The 500Ws Phottix Indra500LC TTL has the power and control of the Canon RT and Phottix Laso triggering systems built-in. Users can switch between TTL and Manual modes, adjust EV and manual power levels and use high-speed sync, all from the Canon ST-E3, compatible Canon RT Speedlites and the Phottix Laso Transmitter - no extra hardware is needed. In Manual mode the Indra500LC offers 8 stops of power adjustments - from full power to 1/128 in 1/3rd stop increments. With Stroboscopic Mode, the Phottix Indra can be used for special effect and creative shooting with flash frequencies of 1-100HZ and flash counts of 1-100 times. The Indra500LC comes with a Li-Ion battery, cables, charger, carrying bag and a new, smaller 5” reflector, with a suggested retail price of $1,299. Availability is slated for October.

Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art, and 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport Lenses

Sigma have unveiled its new 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art and 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport lenses. The Sigma 85mm F1.4 Art lens is engineered to support the highest resolution sensors on the market with an exceptional degree of sharpness. The Sigma 85mm F1.4 Art lens will be available in late October and retails for a recommended street price of $1199.00 USD / £1199.99.

The Sigma 12-24mm F4 features the largest aspherical glass mold in the industry, offering photographers an ultra-wide angle zoom with virtually no distortion, flare or ghosting. The Sigma 12-24mm F4 Art lens will be available in late October and retails for a recommended street price of $1599.00 USD / £1649.99.

The flagship Sigma super telephoto 500mm F4 Sport lens incorporates the very latest in Sigma optical technology and innovation. The Sigma 500mm F4 Sport lens, in Canon and Sigma mounts, will be available in late October. The Nikon mount will be available in late November. The 500mm F4 will retail for a recommended street price of $5999.00 USD / £5999.99.

Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D and Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT Lenses

Venus Optics have unveiled the new Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D and the Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT lenses. The Laowa 15mm f/2 FE is currently the World’s Fastest 15mm rectilinear lens for Full Frame cameras. The Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT is the widest f/2 rectilinear lens ever designed for Micro Four Thirds Cameras. The Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D and the Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT will be available to the market in early 2017.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Preview

Photography Blog attended the recent UK press launch of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in central London. As one of the first people outside of Canon to actually get their hands on the new EOS 5D, here are my initial thoughts...

Eyefi Announces Technology Licensing Agreement with Toshiba

Eyefi has combined efforts with Toshiba to deliver Eyefi Connected features to the upcoming versions of Toshiba's FlashAir WiFi SD memory card product line. In addition, Eyefi has added direct support for automatic wireless transfer of images from Toshiba FlashAir cards to Eyefi Mobi apps on all major platforms. FlashAir customers only need to install the Eyefi Mobi app on their device and enter the required FlashAir user ID and password into the app to begin enjoying instant transfer of their images. Toshiba Flash Air customers can use Eyefi Mobi apps as an alternative or complement to the existing FlashAir apps available on iOS and Android. Eyefi Connected features are available on over 300 camera models from more than 10 leading camera manufactures, including Canon, Nikon and Sony.

Fujifilm X-T2 Preview - Is this the DSLR Slayer?

Photography Blog attended the recent UK press launch of the Fujifilm X-T2 in central London. As one of the first people outside of Fujifilm to actually get their hands on the X-T2, here are my initial thoughts...

Pulse Camera Remote

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

Polaroid Studio PL-108AF Flash

Polaroid has launched a new, fully automatic TTL flash unit for Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony cameras. The Studio Series Digital PL-108AF flash has a guide number of 18 (in metres at ISO100/21°) and comes with a tilting flash head with precise light control, red-eye reduction capabilities and an AF assist light. It also includes quick settings such as Auto Focus, TTL metering and automatic shutter speed for simple shooting. The Polaroid studio series digital auto focus flash line models are now available from $48.95 – $53.99 on Amazon

Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F017) Review

The Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F017) is the third version of Tamron's classic macro lens. Read our Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F017) review to find out if this is the best one yet...

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II Review

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is a brand new flagship DSLR camera for professionals. Aimed at sports, press and nature photographers, the 20 megapixel 1DX Mark II builds on the success of the previous 1D X camera with a wealth of improvements, including 4K video recording, a new 20.2 megapixel sensor, 16fps continuous shooting and an expanded ISO range. Can the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II justify its £5,199.99 / $5,999.95 price-tag? Find out by reading our in-depth Canon EOS 1D X Mark II review...

Canon Launches Search for the Next "Rebel With A Cause"

Canon U.S.A. is continuing its Rebel With A Cause campaign by launching a contest to find the next individual to "challenge the status quo in positive ways to further their passion, belief, or cause." Participants are encouraged to submit a photo or video essay to share what makes them a Rebel With A Cause. One Grand Prize Winner will be presented with the opportunity to have their cause brought to life with their own documentary production, similar to those of previous Rebels Nik Wallenda and Swizz Beatz. In addition, they will receive a Canon EOS Rebel T6i DSLR camera and lens package, $10,000 in cash prizes to support their cause, as well as press and media exposure. The deadline for entries is 17th June.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Review

The Canon PowerShot G7 X is a brand new prosumer compact camera with a 1-inch image sensor, a fast 4.2x zoom lens and 8fps continuous shooting. The G7 X also offers the new Digic 7 processor, built-in wi-fi/NFC connectivity, 1080p HD video at 60fps with stereo sound, a 3 inch tilting touchscreen LCD, a lens control ring, 14-bit RAW files and a full range of manual shooting modes. Read the World's first Canon PowerShot G7 X review now...

Canon EOS 1300D Review

The EOS 1300D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T6 in North America) is Canon's new DSLR camera for beginners. The Canon 1300D / Rebel T6 offers built-in wi-fi connectivity, an 18 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen, 1080p movies, 63-zone metering, and a 9-point auto-focus system. Read the World's first Canon EOS 1300D / Rebel T6 review now...

Macphun Announce New Updates to Tonality

Macphun Software have today launched a major update to Tonality, their award-winning black-and-white photo editor for Mac. Users will now have access to a free preset library, created by professional photographers from around the world. Additionally, Macphun have teamed up with 500px to allow users to easily export images directly from Tonality to the global online photography community. Raw image file support has been extended to include files generated by the Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II, the Fujifilm FinePix HS50EXR 100, the the Leica Q (Typ 116), Leica SL (Typ 601) and Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246), the Nikon D300S, the Panasonic DMC-G7, the Sony A700, Sony RX100 III and the Sony RX10 II. To celebrate the update, Macphun are offering a 50% discount and a free batch processing in the MAS version of Tonality for one week only (7th14th April).

Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM

The Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM is Sigma's second APS-C format zoom lens offering a constant f/1.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range. Equivaletn to a 75-150mm lens in 35mm terms, the Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM features an internal zoom mechanism and an aperture diaphragm with nine rounded blades. Weighing in at 1,490 grams, the Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM has an optical construction comprising 21 lens elements in 15 groups and a minimum focus distance of 95cm. The lens will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma fit for £779.99.

Official Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Sample Images

Canon have posted nine full-resolution sample images and a reduced-size sample video recorded with the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II digital SLR camera. Taken with a variety of lenses including the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM, EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM and EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM; the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II sample photos were captured at sensitivity settings ranging from ISO 100 - ISO 25,600.

Website: Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Sample Images & Movies

Sony A7S II Review

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...

Canon PowerShot G5 X Review

The Canon PowerShot G5 X is a prosumer compact camera with a 1-inch image sensor and 4.2x zoom lens. The G5 X also offers built-in wi-fi/NFC connectivity, 1080p HD video at 60fps with stereo sound, a 3 inch swivelling touchscreen LCD, lens control ring, RAW files and a full range of manual shooting modes. Read our Canon PowerShot G5 X review to find out if this is the best prosumer compact camera that money can buy...

Canon PowerShot G9 X Review

The Canon PowerShot G9 X is a pocketable compact camera with a 1-inch image sensor and 3x zoom lens. The G9 X also offers built-in wi-fi/NFC connectivity, 1080p HD video at 60fps with stereo sound, a 3 inch touchscreen LCD, RAW file support and a full range of manual shooting modes. Read the World's first online Canon PowerShot G9 X review now..

Sony A7R II Review

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...

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4E FL ED VR Review

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4E FL ED VR is a new super telephoto lens for Nikon SLR cameras with an FX sized sensor. Read our in-depth Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4E FL ED VR review now...

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II Review

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II 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, 4K video recording, wi-fi and NFC connectivity and support for the Raw format and full manual controls. Is this the best ever superzoom camera? Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II review to find out...

Canon EOS 760D Review

The Canon EOS 760D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T6s in North America) is a new DSLR camera that boasts 24 megapixels, top panel LCD and rear panel control wheel, a 19-point autofocus system, Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC pairing and a touch-screen interface. Other key features of the 760D / T6s 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 latest Digic 6 processor. Is the Canon EOS 760D / T6i the best mid-range digital SLR camera on the market? Read our expert review to find out...

Calumet Launch Foldable LCD Viewfinder Loupe

Calumet UK have launched a professional LCD viewfinder loupe designed for use with all DSLRs that have a screen size of 3 or 3.2 inches, including the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and the Nikon D810. Giving photographers a clear, magnified view of the DSLR’s LCD screen, the Calumet Foldable LCD Viewfinder offers three times magnification and the dioptre allows for lens focus adjustment. The integrated rubber eyecup provides a hood view of the display and is adjustable; simply flip up the eyepiece to switch to standard live view. The viewfinder loupe comes with a quick release mounting plate which simply clips onto the camera’s mounting plate. The Calumet Foldable LCD Viewfinder (£125) is available in store and online now.

Canon PowerShot G3 X Review

The Canon PowerShot G3 X is a prosumer super-zoom camera with a 1-inch image sensor and 25x zoom lens. The G3 X also offers built-in wi-fi/NFC connectivity, 1080p HD video at 60fps with stereo sound, a 3.2 inch tilting touchscreen LCD, lens control ring, RAW files and a full range of manual shooting modes. Read our Canon PowerShot G3 X review to find out if this is the best superzoom camera that money can buy...

Canon EOS 750D Review

The Canon EOS 750D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T6i in North America) is a new DSLR camera that boasts 24 megapixels, 19-point autofocus system, Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC pairing and a touch-screen interface. Other key features of the 750D / T6i 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 latest Digic 6 processor. Is the Canon EOS 750D / T6i the best mid-range digital SLR camera on the market? Read our expert review to find out...

Canon PowerShot G3 X Interview

Photography Blog recently sat down with Canon UK’s Product Intelligence Professional David Parry to hear more about the features of the new Canon PowerShot G3 X camera, due out in mid July.

Canon EOS 5Ds with the Sigma 24mm, 35mm and 50mm Art Sample Images

We've been testing the new 50-megapixel Canon EOS 5Ds with the highly-regarded Sigma 24mm, 35mm and 50mm f/1.4 Art prime lenses today. Here are 93 JPEG and 20 Raw images taken with a final production version of the Canon EOS 5Ds DSLR camera with the Sigma 24mm, 35mm and 50mm Art Lenses.

Calumet UK Welcomes the Canon Roadshow 2015

alumet UK are inviting photography enthusiasts to get their hands on the latest Canon products during the Canon Roadshow 2015. From 10am-11am, and 2pm-3pm, renowned photographer David Clapp will be demonstrating the new Canon EOS 5DS & EOS 5DS R with images to show the capabilities of the camera and its generous pixel count. He will also be taking a look at new lenses such as the 11-24mm and the 16-35mm F4 IS, which are making big waves in the industry. Then, from 11am-12pm and 3pm-4pm, Canon Explorer Danny Green will be giving a talk and hosting a Q&A session. The first event will take place on Wednesday 27 May in London, The second one will be held on Thursday 25 June in Glasgow, while the third roadshow event will be on Friday 26 June in Edinburgh.

Sigma Acknowledges Lens Incompatiblity Issues with Canon EOS 750D/760D

Sigma have issued a product advisory stating that some of their Canon-mount lenses cannot be used with live view on the Canon EOS 750D and 760D digtial SLR cameras. Specifically, when the Live View Mode button on the camera body is pressed, the operation stops without displaying images on the rear LCD monitor, the company says. This issue affects 7 current and 6 discontinued Sigma zoom lenses. The company will provide users with a firmware update free of charge. Click through / read on for a detailed list of affected lenses.

Pentax K-S1 Review

The Pentax K-S1 is a new entry-level DSLR camera that is available in 12 different colour variations. The 20 megapixel K-S1 offers 5.4fps continuous shooting, an 11-point AF system, 3-inch LCD screen, an optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage and an ISO range of 100-51200. Read our in-depth Pentax K-S1 review...

The Photography Show Super Stage Line-Up Announced

The Photography Show, held at the NEC in Birmingham from 21 -24 March, has annoounced its lineup of speakers for the show's Super Stage theatre. Over four days, the Super Stage will host a diverse group of photographers including Tom Stoddart, Martin Parr, Mary Ellen Mark, Tim Flach, Simon Norfolk, Susan Meiselas, Michael Kenna, Lynsey Addario and Don McCullin. Click through / read on for more information.

Lomo Instant Review

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

Phottix Indra 500 TTL Now Available in the UK

The new Phottix Indra 500 TTL studio light is now available in the United Kingdom. Offering a new level of power for photographers on the move, the 500Ws Phottix Indra500 TTL studio light features through-the-lens flash exposure control with Canon and Nikon cameras, high-speed sync, manual power adjustment in 1/3EV increments, wireless radio control with Phottix Odin and Mitros+ systems, and a maximum recycle time of 2 seconds. The Phottix Indra500 TTL studio light is priced at £699.99 (head-only), £929.99 (AC Adapter Kit) and £999.99 (Battery Adapter Kit).

Calumet Student Photographer of the Year Award

Calumet Photographic has just launched its new Student Photographer of the Year Award for 2015 in partnership with a host of major photographic brands. Designed to recognise photographic talent of students and to provide them with a platform for their work to be recognised, the award is open and available to any student in the UK. Prospective entrants are invited to submit a single photo of their best work - or three if they are a part of the Calumet Student membership programme - and up to 20 words explaining their chosen image. A panel of four judges, including Calumet’s Managing Director, Jon Warner; Professional Photographer, Rory Lewis; Canon’s Product Intelligence Professional, David Parry; Professional Photographer, Tom Barnes, will view all entries and shortlist 10 runners-up and one overall winner who will win an array of prizes worth over £11,000. The deadline for entries is 13 March 2015 and the winners will be announced shortly after.

Canon Announces hdAlbum

Canon USA today announced hdAlbum, a new premium and professional lay-flat photo album service that allows professional photographers and consumers to create customisable photo albums. Printed exclusively on the Canon DreamLabo 5000 photo printer that uses FINE high-density printhead technology, hdAlbum offers five album sizes including portrait, 8 inches by 11 inches; landscape, 11 inches by 8 inches; and square, 8 inches by 8 inches, 10inches by 10inches, and 12 inches by 12 inches. With paper selections of Premium Canon Luster or Glossy inkjet media, all albums are produced using a post printing hinge-style binding process and can include up-to-100 pages. Customers can learn how to create their own personal photo album by visiting Canon Booth #13304 at CES 2015.

Phottix Indra500 TTL Studio Light Now Available

The Phottix Indra500 TTL studio light is now available from the Phottix Online Store. Offering a new level of power for photographers on the move, the 500Ws Phottix Indra500 TTL studio light features through-the-lens flash exposure control with Canon and Nikon cameras, high-speed sync, manual power adjustment in 1/3EV increments, wireless radio control with Phottix Odin and Mitros+ systems, and a maximum recycle time of 2 seconds. The Phottix Indra500 TTL studio light is priced at $1,110 (AC adapter kit) and $1,199 (battery pack kit).

Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports Review

The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports is a new professional telephoto zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras. Offering a bigger zoom ratio and cheaper price than comparable lenses from Nikon and Canon, is this third-party lens worth considering? Read our Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports review to find out...

Lytro Illum Review

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

Kodak PixPro SP360 Review

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

Canon PowerShot SX60 HS Review

The new Canon PowerShot SX60 HS super-zoom camera has an astonishing 65x lens with a massive focal range of 21-1365mm. The Canon SX60 HS also offers a 16 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, 3 inch vari-angle LCD screen, electronic viewfinder, full manual controls, RAW format support, 6.4fps burst shooting, built-in wi-fi and NFC connectivity, and full 1080p HD movies. Read our detailed Canon PowerShot SX60 HS review to find out if it's the ultimate do-it-all camera...

Canon PowerShot G7 X Review

The Canon PowerShot G7 X is a prosumer compact camera with a 1-inch image sensor and fast 4.2x zoom lens. The G7 X also offers built-in wi-fi/NFC connectivity, 1080p HD video at 60fps with stereo sound, a 3 inch tilting touchscreen LCD, lens control ring, RAW files and a full range of manual shooting modes. Read our Canon PowerShot G7 X review to find out if it can beat the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III...

Canon PowerShot SX60 HS Sample Images

Ahead of our full review, here are 62 sample JPEG photos and a 1080p movie taken with the new Canon PowerShot SX60 HS super-zoom camera, including the full ISO range. The Canon SX60 HS is a 16 megapixel compact camera with a 65x zoom lens, equivalent to an astonishing focal range of 21-1365mm!

Corel AfterShot Pro 2.1

Corel has updated its AfterShot Pro software to Version 2.1. Available free to registered users, the 2.1 update introduces a number of new features and enhancements including new HDR tools for Mac and Linux, support for more than 17 new raw camera profiles, an improved Highlight Recovery Tool, as well as various performance and stability enhancements. Newly supported cameras include the Canon SX50 HS, the Fujifilm X-T1, X-E1, X-E2, X-Pro1, X-M1, X100S and X20, the Nikon D4s, D3300, 1 V3, 1 J4, Coolpix P330 and Coolpix A, and the Pentax Q, 645Z and K-500.

Canon Maxify MB5320, MB5020, MB2320, MB2020 and iB4020

Canon today announced five models in the new Maxify series of wireless inkjet printers: the Maxify MB5320 Wireless Inkjet Small Office AIO printer ($399.99), the Maxify MB5020 Wireless Inkjet Small Office AIO printer($299.99), Maxify MB2320 Wireless Inkjet Home Office AIO printer ($199.99), Maxify MB2020 Wireless Inkjet Home Office AIO printer ($179.99, pictured) and Maxify iB4020 Wireless Inkjet Small Office printer ($149.99). Designed with small and home office users in mind, these Wi-Fi enabled printers offer enhanced features including high-quality, low cost per print, quick first print and cloud printing capabilities. Canon's Maxify Cloud Link feature enables documents and photos to be accessed and printed at any time from a compatible mobile device or tablet by connecting to several of the most popular online social platforms and services, such as Microsoft One Drive, Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and Photobucket. Click through / read on for more information.

SanDisk Extreme PRO 128GB CFast 2.0 Card

SanDisk today unveiled significant upgrades to its SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 memory card and announced that the SanDisk Extreme PRO SSD has been qualified for 4K capture. As a follow-up to the world’s first CFast 2.0 card in 2013, the upgraded SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 card delivers shot speeds of up to 440MB/s and data transfer speeds of up to 515MB/s in storage capacities of up to 128GB. Industry leaders ARRI, Canon, Hasselblad, PhaseOne and Leica, and video technology pioneers, Atomos and Blackmagic Design, are strong supporters of the CFast 2.0 standard, SanDisk said in a statement. ARRI has named the SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 card as its card of choice for its ALEXA and AMIRA cameras. The new SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 memory cards will be available at select photo specialty stores in October. The SanDisk Extreme PRO SSDs are currently available online and purchasable through SanDisk’s worldwide network of authorized distributors and resellers.

International Landscape Photographer of the Year - Winner Announced

The winner of the inaugural International Landscape Photographer of the Year  is Christian Fletcher from Western Australia. "My aim was to produce striking images from the air that had an industrial theme," Christian says. "As a photographer I feel it is my duty to capture the world we live in, be it pristine wilderness or industrial oblivion. Both are inspiring in a photographic sense but only one is sustainable."

Canon IXUS 155 Review

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

Distributor Intro2020 Supplies a Sizeable Headwind of Product

If you’re not directly aware of Maidenhead, UK based photographic distributor Intro2020, you’ll certainly be au fait with most if not all of its 28-strong brand offerings. These include lens brands: Samyang photo and video lenses, Tamron photo lenses and Tokina Cine Lenses. Filters from Hoya, Kenko and Cokin and many other leading brands such as Velbon tripods, Metz flash, plus photographic bag ranges including Tamrac and Interceptor.

With responsibility for distributing all these in the UK, Intro2020 is constantly in touch with product developers in Japan and the Far East, and decided to share some of its current and future offerings with PhotographyBlog across a recent press trip to Amsterdam and back.

Profoto B1 Location Kit

Profoto today released the first B1 off-camera flash kit. Containing 2 B1 off-camera flashes, two batteries, a Fast Charger that recharges the battery in one hour, and a Car Charger that plugs into any standard car cigarette connector and recharges the battery in two hours; the Profoto B1 Location Kit sells at £2,550 (+VAT). This represents a ~

Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II Review

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...

Canon EOS 1200D Review

The Canon EOS 1200D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T5 in North America) is a new DSLR camera for beginners. The Canon 1200D / T5 offers an 18 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen, 1080p movies, 63-zone metering, and 9-point auto-focus system. Available body only from £349 and with a zoom lens from £449 / $549, read our Canon EOS 1200D / T5 review to find out if this brand new budget DSLR is a bargain or not...

Transcend Launch SDXC/SDHC UHS-I Speed Class 3 Cards

Transcend have released a range of SDXC/SDHC UHS-I cards featuring full support for the Ultra High Speed Class 3 (U3) specification. Recently released by the SD Association, the Ultra High Speed Class 3 specification guarantees a minimum constant write speed of 30MB/s to facilitate cinema-quality video recording. Transcend’s SDXC UHS-I U3 and SDXC/SDHC UHS-I U3X “Extreme” cards, however, can achieve at least double this performance with write speeds of up to 60MB/s and 85MB/s respectively. In devices that do not support the UHS-I specification, Transcend’s SDXC/SDHC UHS-I U3 cards offer constant write speeds of at least 10MB/s (SD Speed Class 10 performance). The SDXC UHS-I U3 cards (R95MB/s, W60MB/s) are available in 64GB (US$49) and 128GB (US$109) capacities, while the SDXC/SDHC UHS-I U3X cards (R95MB/s, W85MB/s) are available in 32GB (US$59) and 64GB (US$119) capacities.

Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD Review

The Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD is an affordable ultra-zoom lens for full-frame and APS-C Canon, Nikon and Sony DSLR cameras. Read our in-depth Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD to find out if it's really a bargain or not...

Adobe Camera Raw 8.4RC

Adobe has posted Release Candidate (RC) versions of ACR 8.4 for Photoshop CC and CS6. This update adds Camera Matching colour profiles (Provia/standard, Velvia/vivid, Astia/soft, monochrome etc.) for the Fujifilm X-A1, X-E1, X-E2, X-M1, X-S1, X-T1, X-Pro1, X10, X20, XF1, XQ1, X100 and X100S cameras; and raw image file support for the new Canon EOS 1200D, Casio EX-100, DJI Phantom, Fujifilm X-T1, Hasselblad H5D-50c, Hasselblad HV, Nikon D3300, Nikon D4S, Olympus OM-D E-M10, Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ60, Phase One IQ250, Samsung NX30, Sony Alpha a5000 (ILCE-5000) and Sony Alpha a6000 (ILCE-6000) cameras and backs. You can download Adobe Camera Raw 8.4 RC for Photoshop CC and ACR 8.4RC for Photoshop CS6 from the website below.

Website: ACR 8.4 for CC RC
Website: ACR 8.4 for CS6 RC

Ray Flash 2 Universal Ring Flash Adapter

ExpoImaging has just introduced its new Ray Flash 2 universal ring flash adapter in the USA. This model has a new adjustable mount, which attaches quickly and securely to different size speedlights by means of a new spring-loaded clamp design. Available in two different sizes, Ray Flash 2 can be yours for $139.95.

John Stanmeyer Wins World Press Photo of the Year 2013

The jury of the 57th annual World Press Photo competition has selected a picture by American photographer John Stanmeyer of the VII Photo Agency as the World Press Photo of the Year 2013. The image shows African migrants on the shore of Djibouti city at night, raising their phones in an attempt to capture an inexpensive signal from neighbouring Somalia in order to get in touch with relatives abroad. The picture also won 1st Prize in the Contemporary Issues category, and was shot for National Geographic using a Canon EOS 5D Mark III camera with a Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L USM lens. The image was taken at an aperture f/1.4 and 1/40th second exposure and ISO 10,000. Canon, the competition's worldwide sponsor, congratulated Stanmeyer on winning the contest.

YouFrameIt 'Winter Nature' Photography Contest

Youframeit, a company specialising in in photographic canvas printing, is offering winter scenery and wildlife fans an opportunity to win over £500 worth of canvases, plus a Canon EOS M camera. To participate, simply email your winter wildlife & nature photographs to [email protected] The deadline for entries is 12 March 2014.

Update: Due to the popularity of the contest and demand for more time, the company has extended the competition by one week. The closing date is now the 19th of March with the winner being announced on the 22nd.

Cinemartin Cinec 3.X

Cinemartin has released version 3.X of its Cinec video converter / encoder for Windows. Adding support for Cineform, Sony XAVC, XAVC-S and RED files (.r3d) as well as 4K Ultra HD videos created with Snapdragon 800 powered mobile devices; Cinec 3.X comes with a number of new features such sd Motion Picture Adjustments, Dual Preview Monitor and the ability to create transparent videos with the new Quicktime Animation preset. The software is available in Standard, Pro and Gold versions, priced at €99, €199 and €799 respectively.

Fujifilm FinePix F900EXR Review

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

DxO Optics Pro 9.1

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.

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 - Superzoom Compact Cameras

In the fourth part of our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide, we've selected our favourite Superzoom Compact Cameras, with something for every budget.

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 - Premium Compact Cameras

In the third part of our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide, we've selected our favourite Premium Compact Cameras, with something for every budget.

Profoto B1 TTL Off-Camera Flash

The Profoto B1 is a 500Ws cordless off-camera flash, offering TTL metering with Canon and Nikon cameras, in connection with a hotshoe-mounted Air Remote TTL unit. The remote is sold separately, so that photographers may choose the right remote for their camera. The Air Remote TTL-C for Canon cameras with E-TTL II support is launched together with the B1. The Air Remote TTL-N for Nikon cameras with i-TTL support will be available in 2014. The 500Ws light output is enough to overpower the sun on a sunny day, or to light larger sets or groups of people. The light output can be controlled in 1/10 f-stop steps over the entire 9 f-stop power range. The B1 is also equipped with a high-efficient LED modeling light, powerful enough to be used as a portable video light.

Sony Xperia Z1 Sample Images

Ahead of our full review, here are 35 sample JPEG photos taken with the new Sony Xperia Z1 smartphone. The Sony Xperia Z1 has a 1/2.3-type 20.7-megapixel Exmor RS sensor, fast f/2.0 lens, a 5-inch TFT screen, and 3x clear image zoom.

Nissin Di600

The Nissin Di600 is a successor to the well-established Nissin Di622 Mark II flash gun. The new model has a similar feature set to its predecessor, but at a better price point. Powered by four AA batteries, the flash has a zooming tilt-swivel head, and the guide number is 44 in metres (at ISO100/21°) at the 105mm setting. A 16mm wide-angle diffuser is built in together with a fill-in reflector. The new gun is available now in Canon and Nikon fit, with Sony fit available in November. The suggested retail price is £145.50.

Using Wi-Fi to Streamline your Workflow

We take an introductory look at how you can start to use Wi-Fi to streamline your photography workflow.

Canon PowerShot S120 Review

The Canon PowerShot S120 is a new compact camera for enthusiasts. Featuring a 5x zoom lens with a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, ISO range of 80-12,800, 12.1fps burst shooting, RAW support, full manual controls, built-in wi-fi connectivity, touchscreen interface and 1080p video at 60fps, the Canon S120 is a slim and stylish camera that you can easily fit in a trouser pocket. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot S120 review now to find out if it's the best premium compact camera...

Delkin CF 1050X UDMA 7 Cinema Card

The Delkin CF 1050X UDMA 7 Cinema is a specialised memory card that's designed to excel in high-end recording equipment, such as 4K cameras and medium-format digital backs. Capable of recording data at speeds up to 120 MB/s, the 1050X is the company's fastest card to date. This write speed is necessary to record 4K footage with cameras such as the Canon 1D C, which requires memory cards that are UDMA 7 and have a minimum write speed of 100 MB/s to avoid dropped frames. Additionally, with a read speed of 160 MB/s, the Delin CF 1050X allows for fast image transfers from card to computer, saving valuable time. The CF 1050X Cinema card is now available and comes in 32GB, 64GB and 128GB capacities for $149.95, $349.95 and $699.95, respectively

Pentax K-500 Review

The Pentax K-500 is a new entry-level DSLR camera with a lot of attractive features for the price. The 16 megapixel K-500 offers 6fps continuous shooting, an 11-point AF system, 3-inch LCD screen, an optical viewfinder with nearly 100% frame coverage and an ISO range of 100-51200. Read our in-depth Pentax K-500 review...

Canon Powershot SX270 HS Review

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is a new travel-zoom camera for 2013, offering a 20x zoom lens and a 12 megapixel back-illuminated image sensor. Other key features of the Canon SX270 include a 3 inch LCD screen, full 1080p HD movies with stereo sound, fast 14fps burst shooting, and a full range of manual and automated exposure modes. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX270 HS in-depth review now...

SanDisk Launches World's First CFast 2.0 Card

SanDisktoday announced the SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast 2.0 memory card. The 120GB1 SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast 2.0 memory card is the world’s fastest memory card, with read speeds of up to 450MB/s (3000X) and write speeds up to 350MB/s (2333X). This is the first card to utilise the CFast 2.0 specification. SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast 2.0 memory cards are available in the U.S. and Europe at select photo specialty stores and at Arri authorized storefronts in 60GB and 120GB capacities.

Iridient Developer 2.1.1 for Mac

Brian Griffith has released Version 2.1.1 of Iridient Developer, his critically acclaimed image processing software for Mac OS X. This release features all-new, native demosaic processing for the Fuji X-Trans (X-Pro1, X-E1, X100S and X20) cameras, in addition to the existing support for these cameras using either Apple's RAW libraries or Adobe DNG (linear) format conversion. The new demosaic method provides improved fine detail rendering, even better sharpness and other advantages over Apple's conversion. Version 2.1.1 also includes a number of improvements to preview drawing for Retina displays, better handling of touch gestures for preview scrolling on older laptops and other bug fixes, adds support for 14 new cameras, and greatly reduces the memory usage of the new noise reduction methods introduced in Version 2.1.

Calumet Rental Services

Calumet UK has launched a brand new website completely dedicated to its rental customers. Simon Browitt, head of Calumet Rental in London said: “Now, it’s never been easier to rent equipment from us. We have an extensive inventory of photographic equipment; cameras; digital equipment; lighting and studio products. It could be a Canon 600 mm lens – which costs upwards of £10,500 to buy – but we’ll rent it for £90 a day plus damage waiver insurance. Or, at the other end of the scale, we could hire out a remote timer from about £10 a day.”

Canon Powershot SX280 HS Review

The Canon PowerShot SX280 HS is a new travel-zoom camera for 2013, offering a 20x zoom lens and a 12 megapixel back-illuminated image sensor. Other key features of the Canon SX280 include built-in GPS and wi-fi connectivity, a 3 inch LCD screen, full 1080p HD movies with stereo sound, fast 14fps burst shooting, and a full range of manual and automated exposure modes. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX280 HS in-depth review now...

Canon IXUS 255 HS Review

The Canon IXUS 255 HS (also known as the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS) is a small and stylish new point-and-shoot compact camera. The IXUS 255 HS' stand-out features include a 12 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, 10x wide-angle zoom lens, full 1080p HD movie recording, 3 inch LCD screen and built-in wi-fi connectivity. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 255 HS review to find out if this tiny camera is worth the £199.99 / $229.99 price-tag.

Manfrotto Showcases Kata Line-Up at NAB

Manfrotto Distribution is showcasing a slimmed down lineup of Kata rollers, shoulder bags, video backpacks and rain covers at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) show in Las Vegas. “Kata Pro-Light products are designed to protect professional gear while minimizing weight, so you never miss a shot” said Doug Feldner, Product Category Manager. “The focused 2013 product line makes finding the right bag or rain cover with the online Kata Bag Chooser simpler than ever.” These products are all on display in booth C7025 at the NAB 2013 trade show. Click through / read on for the details.

Getting Started with 360° Photography

Many readers on Photography Blog have been photographing people, weddings, nature, animals and architecture for years - but never taken the step into 360° photography. Panoramic photography and virtual tours are a new modern way to take photos and brings a different perspective. This is a short guide about one of the fastest growing trends in photography and how you can easily get started.

Canon PowerShot SX280 HS / PowerShot SX270 HS

Canon today introduced two new PowerShot SX series digital compacts that combine Canon’s brand new DIGIC 6 image processing technology with 12-megapixel sensors and 20x optical zoom. The Canon PowerShot SX280 HS (£299/€359/$330) and the Canon PowerShot SX270 HS (£279) offer a similar feature set including enhanced Dynamic IS, Manual, Av and TV exposure modes, a 25-500mm equivalent lens, high-speed shooting and Full HD video recording at 60 frames per second. The Canon PowerShot SX280 HS additionally offers on-board GPS and Wi-Fi. In the US, only the SX280 HS model will be offered.

Sony Xperia Z Review

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

ACDSee Pro 6.2 & ACDSee 15.2

ACDSystems have released Version 15.2 of ACDSee and Version 6.2 of ACDSee Pro. These updates add support for the Canon Powershot S110, EOS M, EOS 6D, PowerShot G15 and PowerShot SX50 HS, the Nikon 1 V2, D5200 and D600, the Olympus XZ-2 iHS, E-PL5 and E-PM2, the Panasonic GH3, the Pentax K-5 II, K-5 IIs and Q10, the Samsung EX2F, the Sony SLT-A99V, NEX-6, NEX-5R and DSC-RX1. The new versions also incorporate bug fixes and performance improvements. For more information see the ACDSee Pro 6.2 and ACDSee 15.2 release notes.

Canon Showcases its Imaging Line-up at WPPI

Canon U.S.A. will showcase its breadth of input to output imaging devices at the 2013 Wedding & Portrait Photographer International (WPPI) Convention. On display at the Canon booth (#401) is a diverse selection of EOS camera models, including the EOS-1D X, 5D Mark III, 6D and 7D; a broad range of Canon EF lenses; some of the imagePROGRAF and Pixma Pro series of printers as well as the Canon DreamLabo 5000 production inkjet printer. For wedding and event videographers, the XF305 and the compact, highly portable XF105 professional camcorders are on display as well. Both deliver Full HD video utilising Canon-designed and developed native 1920 x 1080 CMOS image sensors, professional XLR microphone inputs, and Canon’s proprietary MPEG-2 4:2:2 50Mbps XF codec. The WPPI 2013 trade show is being held in the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas.

Fotodiox Announces Availability of Aputure USB V-Control

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

World Press Photo 2012 Winners Announced

The winners of the 2012 World Press Photo awards have been announced. The overall winner is Paul Hansen for his image of a group of Palestinian men carrying the bodies of two children killed in an Israeli missile strike (above). The photograph was taken on 20 November 2012 in Gaza City and appeared in the Swedish newspaper Dages Nyheter. The jury gave prizes in nine themed categories to 54 photographers of 32 nationalities from: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Jordan, Malaysia, the Palestinian Territories, the Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom, USA, and Vietnam. You can view the winning photographs at the website below.

Canon PowerShot A810 Review

The Canon PowerShot A810 is the cheapest model in Canon's extensive range of compact cameras, with a street price of just £70 / $80. Despite its budget nature the A810 still offers a 16 megapixel sensor, 720p movies, 5x zoom and 2.7 inch LCD screen. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot A810 review to find out if it's too cheap to be true...

Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Review

The Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM is a new moderate wide-angle prime lens. Boasting built-in image stabilisation and fast and quite auto-focusing, the plastic-bodied EF 35mm f/2 IS USM is a more affordable alternative to Canon's professional wide-angle primes. Read our in-depth Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM review complete with full-size sample images.

Canon Canada Opens ‘Image Square’

Canon Canada has announced the opening of Image Square, the Canon Experience Centre - a unique destination where visitors can interact with the latest Canon technology. Located at Eighth Avenue Place in downtown Calgary, Alberta, Canon Image Square is a “technologically-advanced space specifically designed to encourage exploration and discovery,” the company says. Occupying approximately 6,600 square feet, Canon Image Square is accessible off 8th Avenue as well as through the building’s main concourse.

Sony A99 Review

The Sony A99 is a new full-frame DSLR camera that seemingly offers virtually all of the latest cutting-edge technologies. The A99 is also the only full-frame camera that isn't made by the Big Two, Canon and Nikon, who both now have three full-frame models in their ranges. Can the A99 compete with the well-established competition? Read our in-depth Sony A99 review to find out...

Canon PowerShot A1300 Review

The PowerShot A1300 is one of the cheapest compact cameras from Canon. Offering a 16 megapixel sensor, 5x zoom lens and a very attractive price tag of less than £120 / $120, the A1300 even features a proper optical viewfinder. Read our Canon PowerShot A1300 review to find out if it's worthy of a second glance...

Samyang 85mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC Review

The Samyang 85mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC is a portait prime lens for full-frame and APS-C DSLRs. The Samyang 85mm f/1.4 is a much more affordable alternative to the Nikon and Canon equivalents thanks largely to being manual-focus only. Read our in-depth Samyang 85mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC review complete with full-size sample images.

Samyang 35mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC Review

The Samyang 35mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC is a moderate wide-angle prime lens for full-frame and APS-C DSLRs. The Samyang 35mm f/1.4 is a much more affordable alternative to the Nikon and Canon equivalents thanks largely to being manual-focus only. Read our in-depth Samyang 35mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC review complete with full-size sample images.

Canon PowerShot S110 Review

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.

Canon PowerShot G15 Review

The Canon PowerShot G15 is a serious camera aimed at the advanced amateur or pro looking for a carry-everywhere compact. Building on the success of previous G-series models, for 2012 the G15 principally adds a 12 megapixel CMOS sensor, faster 5x zoom lens, bigger and higher-resolution LCD screen, 10fps burst shooting and full 1080p HD video. £549 / €649 / $499.99 is an awful lot of money for a compact with a small image sensor - read our in-depth Canon PowerShot G15 review to find out if it's worth it.

CEA and Eye-Fi Solicit Photos for ‘Best Shots’ Contest

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has launched its fourth annual digital photo contest in partnership with Eye-Fi. Submission to the “Best Shots” contest will be accepted until 16 December 2012. Entrants can submit one photo in each of four categories: people, travel, pets and cellphone shots. A slate of expert judges will select finalists in each category. Winners will be chosen via an online vote that will run from 8-11 January 2013. The grand prize winner, to be announced 11 January 2013, at the 2013 International CES, will receive a Canon EOS Rebel T3i and an Eye-Fi wireless SD memory card. You can submit your photos through the website below. Note that this competition is open to US residents only. As always we suggest that you read the rules before entering your work.

Olympus XZ-2 Review

The new Olympus XZ-2 is a serious compact that's aimed at the enthusiast and professional user looking for a small yet capable camera. A 12 megapixel 1/1.7 inch CMOS sensor, fast f/1.8 maximum aperture, high-res 3-inch tilting touch-screen LCD, and a full range of manual shooting modes should be enough to grab your attention. Read our expert Olympus XZ-2 review, complete with full-size JPEG, RAW and movie samples.

Fujifilm Finepix F800EXR Review

The FinePix F800EXR is the latest travel-zoom camera from Fujifilm, sporting a 20x lens with a versatile focal range of 25-500mm. The 16 megapixel F800 EXR also features wireless image transfer, GPS support, full 1080p movies, a high-contrast 3 inch LCD screen and 8fps continuous shooting. Read our in-depth Fujifilm FinePix F800 EXR review to find out if it's the ultimate travel camera...

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 Review

The Lumix DMC-FZ200 is Panasonic's premium super-zoom compact camera. Stand-out features of the FZ200 include a 24x zoom lens with a constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the 25-600mm range, 1080p HD movies, a high-resolution LCD and EVF, fast auto-focusing, 12fps burst shooting and a 12 megapixel MOS image sensor. Read our expert Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 review now...

Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Review

The Canon PowerShot SX50 HS super-zoom camera has an astonishing 50x lens with a massive focal range of 24-1200mm. The Canon SX50 HS also offers a 12 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, 2.8 inch vari-angle LCD screen, electronic viewfinder, full manual controls, RAW format support, 10fps burst shooting and full 1080p HD movies. Read our detailed Canon PowerShot SX50 HS review complete with full-size JPEG, RAW and video samples to discover if it's the only camera you'll ever need...

Canon PowerShot D20 Review

The Canon PowerShot D20 is an all-action compact camera that's water, dust, freeze and shock proof. The new Canon D20 is a distinctively designed 12 megapixel camera with a 5x zoom, 1080p HD video, built-in GPS and a 3-inch screen. Read our detailed Canon PowerShot D20 review now...

Photokina 2012 Highlights - Cameras

We have collected the most interesting digital cameras announced at (or just before) Photokina 2012. They are not necessarily the “best” cameras out there - some of them are indisputably ground-breaking, others rather controversial - but they are all intriguing in one way or another.

Photokina 2012 News Round-Up - UPDATED

Day One of the Photokina 2012 trade show has turned out to be just as busy as Day Zero, so once again don’t blame yourself if you are feeling a little overwhelmed, wondering if you’ve read everything that may be of interest to you. In order to help you find your way around all the announcements, hands-on previews and sample galleries, we have collected all the relevant info on one page, with links to the detailed articles.

Photokina 2012 Press Day Announcements Round-Up

Over the past 15 hours or so we have posted literally dozens of Photokina-related articles - mainly product announcements, hands-on photo galleries and sample images - that quickly filled up our first (and second) pages. So don’t blame yourself if you are feeling a little overwhelmed, wondering if you’ve read everything that may be of interest to you. In order to help you make sense of all the madness we have collected all the relevant info on one page, with links to the detailed articles.

Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD

The Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD is the most compact full-size, high-speed telephoto zoom lens. Equipped with VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization, and USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive), the Tamron 70-200m F/2.8 lens is currently under development with no launch date or price set. It will be available for Nikon, Canon and Sony mounts.

Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD

The Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD is a redesigned version of the classic 90mm macro lens. Equipped with VC (Vibration Compensation) and USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) with completely redesigned optics, the Tamron 90mm F/2.8 Macro lens is currently under development for Canon, Nikon and Sony mounts, with price and availability to be announced.

Canon CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S/SP and CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S/SP

Coinciding with the launch of the EOS C100 and C500 cameras, Canon has announced the addition of two new zoom lenses to its Cinema EOS system. Available in both EF- and PL-mount versions, the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S/SP wide-angle cinema zoom lens (pictured) and the CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S/SP telephoto cinema zoom lens are engineered to deliver exceptional optical performance for the latest large-format single-sensor 4K and 2K digital cinematography cameras. The Canon CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S/SP wide-angle cinema zoom lens is expected to be available in November 2012 and the CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S/SP telephoto cinema zoom lens is expected to be available in January 2013, both for an estimated list price of $24,500 each.

Canon IXUS 510 HS Review

The new Canon IXUS 510 HS is a stylish and well-appointed compact camera. Also known as the ELPH 530 HS, the Canon IXUS 510 HS offers a wide-angle 12x zoom, 10 megapixel CMOS sensor, 3.2 inch LCD touchscreen, built-in wi-fi and full 1080p HD movies. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 510 HS review complete with full-size sample images and video.

Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC Review

The Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC is an ultra-wide-angle prime lens for full-frame and APS-C DSLRs. The Samyang 24mm f/1.4 is a more affordable alternative to the Nikon and Canon equivalents thanks largely to being manual-focus only. Read our in-depth Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC review complete with full-size sample images.

Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM Review

The Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM is a new wide-angle prime lens. Boasting built-in image stabilisation and fast and quite auto-focusing, the EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM is a more affordable but still very capable alternative to Canon's professional wide-angle primes. Read our in-depth Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM review complete with full-size sample images.

DxO Optics Pro 7.5.3

DxO Labs have released DxO Optics Pro 7.5.3 for Mac and Windows, This latest version adds support for the Canon EOS 650D (pictured), the Sony NEX-F3 and the Sony SLT-A37. It also includes more than 300 new DxO Optics Modules, of which 61 are for the Canon EOS 650D and 40 are for the Sony SLT-A37. These modules support additional Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and Sony lenses for numerous Canon, Olympus, Nikon, Panasonic, and Sony cameras. As of today, the DxO Optics Modules library includes more than 7,500 available camera/lens combinations. This update is free of charge for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 7, as well as for photographers who purchased a license for DxO Optics Pro 6 after 1 September 2011.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V Review

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...

Sony A37 Review

The Sony A37 is a new entry-level SLT/DSLR camera, boasting a 16 megapixel sensor, 7fps burst shooting, 1080i Full HD movies, high-resolution viewfinder, tilting LCD screen and an ISO range of 100-16000, all for under £530 / $600 with a standard zoom lens. Read our in-depth Sony A37 review to find out if it's the best DSLR camera for beginners...

Aquatica A5D Mk III Underwater Housing

The Aquatica Team has unveiled the Aquatica A5D Mk III underwater housing for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III digital SLR camera. Featuring a newly designed camera tray that smoothly and precisely positions the camera in the housing, the Aquatica A5D Mk III is aimed at professional photographers and videograpers. “Given the immense impact its predecessor, the Aquatica 5D Mk II, had on the underwater video industry, it was deemed absolutely important that this new housing be optimized even more for this task, all video controls where redesigned for easier reach and smoother operation, without sacrificing nothing to the still image side of the housing operation,” the company claims. Also, the new housing has the same standard 90m/300ft depth rating and can still be upgraded to 130m/425ft. The Aquatica A5D Mk III is priced at $3,199.

Canon IXUS 240 HS Review

The Canon IXUS 240 HS (also known as the PowerShot ELPH 320 HS) is a slim and stylish new point-and-shoot compact camera. The stand-out features include a 16 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, full 1080p HD movie recording, 3.2 inch touch LCD screen, 24mm wide-angle lens and built-in wi-fi connectivity. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 240 HS review to find out if this tiny camera is worth the £279 / €319 / $280 outlay.

Canon PowerShot SX240 HS Review

The Canon PowerShot SX240 HS is a brand new travel-zoom camera for 2012, offering a massive 20x zoom lens and a 12 megapixel back-illuminated image sensor. Other key features of the Canon SX240 include a 3 inch LCD screen, full 1080p HD movies with stereo sound, fast 10.3fps burst shooting, and a full range of manual and automated exposure modes. Read our expert Canon PowerShot SX240 HS review complete with sample photos, test shots, videos and more.

Nikon D800 Review

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.

EEF Made in Britain Photography Awards

EEF, the UK manufacturers’ organisation, is seeking images of modern manufacturing that capture British products, components or processes. Winners of the EEF Made in Britain Photography Awards will share a prize fund of £5000 worth of photographic equipment from headline sponsor Canon and gain national recognition at a Westminster awards reception in December 2012. Additionally, the government’s Make it in Great Britain campaign is also backing the awards. The closing date is 28 September 2012, with entries shortlisted by a national panel of photographic and industry experts in October and winners announced at a special ceremony in Westminster in December. As always, we recommend that you read the rules before entering your work.

Fujifilm FinePix F770EXR Review

The FinePix F770EXR is the latest travel-zoom camera from Fujifilm, sporting a 20x lens with a versatile focal range of 25-500mm. The 16 megapixel F770 EXR features a fast auto-focus system, full 1080p movies, enhanced GPS, high-contrast 3 inch LCD screen and 8fps continuous shooting. Read our in-depth Fujifilm FinePix F770EXR review to find out if this is the ultimate travel camera...

DeluxGear Launches Four New Lens Guards

OmegaBrandess Distribution has announced 4 new Lens Guards to fit lenses and hoods from 3 7/8 inches (10 cm) in diameter all the way to 8 1/8 inches (20.5 cm). The four new Lens Guards - the XL, 2XL, Jumbo and Giant - offer the same quality and protection as DeluxGear’s current Lens Guard line. Each is a padded cover that fits snugly over the end of the lens for protection. The shock-resistant inner core is made of 0.25” (6mm) thick closed-cell neoprene and is encased in a tough 0.08” (2mm) Santoprene outer cover.  Suggested list prices are $34.99 for the XL, $54.99 for the 2XL, $69.99 for the Jumbo, and $74.99 for the Giant.

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS Review

The Canon PowerShot SX260 HS is a brand new travel-zoom camera for 2012, offering a massive 20x zoom lens and a 12 megapixel back-illuminated image sensor. Other key features of the Canon SX260 include built-in GPS, a 3 inch LCD screen, full 1080p HD movies with stereo sound, fast 10.3fps burst shooting, and a full range of manual and automated exposure modes. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX260 HS in-depth review.

Fujifilm FinePix HS30EXR Photos

Ahead of our full review, here are 46 sample JPEG photos and a 1080p movie taken with a full production version of the new Fujifilm FinePix HS30EXR ultra-zoom compact camera. The HS30 EXR is a 16 megapixel superzoom/bridge camera with a 30x optical zoom lens, Full 1080p HD movie recording, RAW image capture, electronic viewfinder, a tilting LCD screen and a flash hot-shoe.

DxO Optics Pro 7.2.2

DxO Labs have just released DxO Optics Pro 7.2.2 for Mac and Windows, offering support for the new Nikon D4 (pictured), as well as for the Olympus XZ-1 and Olympus PEN E-P1. Additionally, more than 500 new camera-lens combinations were added to the DxO Optics Module library during the past several weeks, crossing the milestone of 6,000 available modules. This means that DxO Optics Pro v7.2.2 now supports additional Canon, Minolta, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Samyang, Sigma, Tamron, Tokina and Zeiss lenses for numerous Canon, Fuji, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony cameras. This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 7, as well as for photographers who acquired a license for DxO Optics Pro 6 after September 1, 2011.

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS Photos

Ahead of our full review, here are 55 sample JPEG photos and a 1080p movie taken with a full production version of the new Canon PowerShot SX260 HS travel-zoom compact camera. The SX260 HS is Canon's premium travel zoom camera, sporting a 20x, 25-500mm lens, 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, GPS and 3 inch LCD screen.

Pentax K-01 Review

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...

Canon IXUS 125 HS Review

The Canon IXUS 125 HS (also known as the PowerShot ELPH 110 HS) is a stylish new point-and-shoot compact camera. The stand-out features include a 16 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, full 1080p HD movie recording, 3 inch LCD screen, 24mm wide-angle lens and a top ISO speed of 3200. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 125 HS review.

Canon IXUS 500 HS Review

The new Canon IXUS 500 HS adds a long zoom lens to the style-conscious IXUS range of compact cameras. Also known as the ELPH 520 HS, the Canon IXUS 500 HS boasts a wide-angle 12x zoom, 10 megapixel CMOS sensor, 3 inch LCD screen and full 1080p HD movies. Is this the right travel-zoom camera for you? Find out in our in-depth Canon IXUS 500 HS review, complete with full-size sample images and video.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G Review

The AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is a fast mid-range telephoto prime lens for Nikon full-frame DSLRs. With a maximum aperture of f/1.8 and an iris diaphragm with seven rounded blades, the AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G should be able to create excellent bokeh effects. Read our in-depth Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G review.

Canon PowerShot G1 X Review

The Canon PowerShot G1 X is a serious compact camera with a large 1.5-inch image sensor. Building on previous G-series models, the G1 X also offers a 4x, 28-112mm zoom lens, 1080p HD video with stereo sound, 3 inch vari-angle screen, optical viewfinder and manual controls. £699 / €799 / $799.99 is a lot of money to pay for a fixed-lens compact camera - read our Canon PowerShot G1 X review to find out if it's worth it.

Canon PowerShot SX240 HS & SX260 HS

Canon has announced two new PowerShot SX models, including the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS and SX260 HS, both of which come with 25-500mm equivalent zoom lenses and 12.1-megapixel sensors. Other features the two cameras have in common include high-speed shooting; Full HD video recording; advanced Multi-area White Balance; Manual, Tv and Av shooting modes; a Smart Auto mode that can recognise up to 58 different scenes; Intelligent IS and a 3” PureColor II G LCD screen. The Canon PowerShot SX260 HS additionally features a built-in GPS module with included Map Utility software and GPS logger function. The SX240 HS will be available from March at a price of £299.00/€349.00. The SX260 HS is also expected to start shipping in March, priced at £329.00/€379.00/$349.99.

Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD

Tamron has announced the development of a new fast, optically stabilised, splashproof standard zoom for full-frame cameras. The Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD will feature the manufacturer’s Vibration Compensation (VC) technology and an ultrasonic focus motor for quiet AF operation. The optical formula comprises 17 lens elements in 12 groups, including three low-dispersion, two high-refractive-index and three glass-moulded aspherical elements as well as a hybrid aspherical element; and an iris diaphragm with nine rounded aperture blades. As the world’s first 24-70mm f/2.8 lens with VC technology, the Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD will be available in Canon and Nikon fit. A special A-mount version with no Vibration Compensation will be marketed to Sony DSLR users. Pricing and availability to be communicated.

David Noton: Memory Loss

One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, looks back at the photographs that got away...

Canon CES Hands-On Photos

A quick tour of Canon’s CES 2012 stand.

We’ve already covered Canon’s new camera products for CES - the PowerShot G1 X and the IXUS 500 HS and IXUS 125 HS - so here’s a short but sweet tour of Canon’s mid-sized stand to give you an idea of what else Canon are showing.

Take a closer look at the Canon CES booth in our photo gallery.

Canon IXUS 500 HS and IXUS 125 HS Hands-On Photos

A detailed hands-on look at the new Canon IXUS 500 HS and IXUS 125 HS compact cameras.

Canon were also showing the new ELPH 520 HS / IXUS 500 HS and the ELPH 110 HS / IXUS 125 HS compacts at Digital Experience! on the eve of CES proper. The former is a metal-bodied ultra-compact camera with a 12x optical zoom, and the latter has a more modest 24-120mm equivalent lens.

Take a close-up look at the new Canon ELPH 520 HS and ELPH 110 HS cameras in our extensive photo gallery,

Canon IXUS 500 HS and IXUS 125 HS

The 10-megapixel Canon Ixus 500 HS is a metal-bodied ultra-compact camera with 12x optical zoom, while the 16-megapixel Ixus 125 is a similarly slim camera with a wide, 24-120mm equivalent lens. Both cameras feature a Smart Auto mode that can recognise up to 58 different scenes and shooting situations, a Full HD movie mode and high-speed shooting. The new Face ID feature works with Smart Auto to ensure that your loved ones “always look their best in photos,” the company says. By registering a person along with their age in the camera’s memory, the face will then be recognised and Smart Auto will automatically apply the most appropriate settings to capture a great shot, based on their age and activity, as well as the ambient scene. Other highlights include a 3-inch, 460.000-dot rear screen, a “Super Slow Motion Movie” mode, an improved Movie Digest mode and a range of fun effects. The Ixus 125 HS is available from late February, priced at £229/€259, while the Ixus 500 HS is expected to hit the shops early March, priced at £309/€349 RRP.

Note: in the USA, the Ixus 125 and Ixus 500 will be marketed under the names Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS and ELPH 520 HS, priced at $249.99 and $299.99 respectively.

Sigma Unveils “Dear Sigma” Contest Winner

Sigma Corporation of America has announced the winner of its “Dear Sigma” contest.  Participants were required fill out an entry form and draft a “Dear Sigma” letter describing what Sigma products they’re dreaming of this holiday season. The company today revealed that Brandon Bethea, of San Diego, California, will receive three Sigma lenses totaling nearly $2,500 as a result of his “Dear Sigma” contest entry, titled “Better to Give than Receive.” Bethea founded Fin Forward, a shark-diving project for cancer survivors, and said he plans to use the 50mm F2.8 macro, 8-16mm F4-5.6 wide angle (pictured), and 20mm F1.8 wide angle lenses to photograph his upcoming 2012 Mayan Shark Odyssey to raise awareness about cancer and shark conservation.

Sigma Partners with Sculptor to Spotlight Underwater Museum

Sigma Corporation of America has teamed up with underwater photographer, sculptor and conservationist Jason deCaires Taylor to help photograph the artist’s oft-unseen work and share it with the world. Taylor is the mastermind behind the underwater sculpture park, known as the Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA) in Cancun, Mexico. The museum, which consists of more than 400 of Taylor’s permanent, life-size sculptures, is designed as an artificial coral reef that provides a new habitat for sea creatures, while drawing attention – and tourist traffic – from the region’s overtaxed natural reefs. Because the project can only be viewed by scuba divers, snorkellers and people aboard a glass-bottom boat, photographs of the museum are essential in helping Taylor share this work. “Sigma lenses have become a vital tool for me to document my work and portray the beauty and fragility of the underwater world,” he says. “I have been photographing underwater for more than 10 years and have tried many different camera setups, however, using Sigma’s wide angle 10-20mm has been a turning point.” For information about on Taylor, MUSA or his artwork, visit the website below.

Canon PowerShot SX150 IS Review

The new Canon PowerShot SX150 IS is one of the most affordable travel-zoom cameras around. For less than £200 / $250, the Canon SX150 offers a 12x optical zoom lens, 14 megapixels, 3 inch LCD screen and 720p movies. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX150 IS review to find out if this is the travel zoom camera for you.

Sigma Launches "Dear Sigma" Contest

Sigma Corporation of America has launched a sweepstake/contest on its Facebook fan page. Participants are required fill out an entry form and draft a “Dear Sigma” letter describing what Sigma products they’re dreaming of this holiday season. “Our Facebook fans are constantly telling us what Sigma gear they love and want, so we decided to give them an opportunity to win it this year,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “We’ll be judging the finalists based on their humour, creativity and overall appreciation of our products.” The deadline for submissions is 16th December at 12pm ET. Once all of the submissions have been received, online voting will commence. The top five vote-getters will become the contest finalists and a winner will be selected on 22nd December by a panel of judges. The winner will receive his or her wished-for Sigma products totalling up to $2,500 of the manufacturer’s suggested retail price

Canon PowerShot S100 Review

The Canon PowerShot S100 compact camera is a new compact camera that offers an extensive DSLR-like list of features - ISO range of 80-6400, RAW support, full manual controls, customisable 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 S100 review now to find out if this is the only compact that you need...

RED Scarlet-X

RED Digital Cinema has officially released the Scarlet-X, a professional-grade hybrid digital stills and video camera that takes interchangeable lenses. Featuring a “Mysterium-X” Super 35 sensor, the Scarlet-X is a relatively compact, modular camera that can record true 4K video at 1-30fps and also allows users to simultaneously capture motion footage and still content. As a stills camera, the Scarlet-X can take 13.8-megapixel photographs with an aspect ratio of 19:10, at frame rates of up to 12fps. The camera comes standard with a Canon EF or PL mount, which can be swapped easily using Scarlet-X’s interchangeable lens mount system. In addition Panavision, Anamorphic, and Nikon lenses are also compatible with the camera. The EF-mount version (pictured, with an aluminium lens mount) will be available for $9,750 (if ordered before 31st December), while the PL variant - featuring a titanium mount - will be $1,500 dearer. Availability is slated for 17th November for the PL-mount model and 1st December for the Canon version.

Media Pro 1.1

Phase One today released Version 1.1 of Media Pro. a professional digital visual assets managing application for Mac and Windows. This update fixes a number of bugs, features faster importing / media rendering and improved Capture One integration, and adds support for a number of camera raw formats when using the Capture One renderer. Media Pro is available now via download for $199 / €139 through Phase One’s Online Store.

Canon Produces 50 millionth EOS Camera and 70 millionth EF Lens

Canon has announced the achievement of two milestones: the company has recently manufactured its 50 millionth EOS-series SLR camera, and expects to produce the 70 millionth EF lens by the end of this month. The first-ever Canon EOS camera, the EOS 650, was launched in March 1987. By the 10th anniversary of the series in 1997, the number of EOS cameras sold had reached the 10 million mark. Production propelled to 20 million units in 2003, and by the 20th anniversary they had reached the 30 million mark, due to the continued popularity of the EOS system in the digital age. The 40 millionth EOS camera was manufactured in May 2010, while the current 50 million-unit production milestone was achieved in September 2011.

Pentax Q Photos

We had a brief opportunity to try out the new Pentax Q camera yesterday. Here are 72 sample JPEG photos, 27 RAW images, and a Full HD movie taken with the tiny new Pentax Q interchangeable lens camera. There's also a full ISO range from 125 to 6400 so that you can see exactly what the Pentax Q's 12 megapixel 1/2.3" back-illuminated CMOS sensor is capable of.

Canon PowerShot SX230 HS Review

The Canon PowerShot SX230 HS is the latest travel-zoom camera to hit the market, offering a 14x zoom lens and a sensible 12 megapixel back-illuminated image sensor. Other key features of the Canon SX230 include built-in GPS< a 3 inch LCD screen, full 1080p HD movies with stereo sound, a range of hand-holding modes for beginners, and full manual controls for more experienced users. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX230 HS in-depth review to find out if this is the only camera that you need.

Canon Provides Updates on Availability of New Lenses

Canon today announced updated availability dates for five of its EF lenses. The Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM zooming fisheye lens ($1,399, pictured) will be released late July, the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM ($6,599) and EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM ($10,499) telephoto primes are scheduled to be available in late August, while the Canon EF 500mm F4L IS II USM ($9,499) and EF 600mm F4L IS II USM ($11,999) superteles will likely hit the shops in December.

Jessops Announces Exclusive Promotion

Jessops has launched a new, limited-time promotion on the Canon EOS 500D Twin Lens Kit. The kit, including the body, 18-55 & 75-300 mm lenses, will be available for a 20% reduced price of £599, together with a free Activity Camera (worth £50) and £50 of photo processing vouchers. The offer will run until stocks last.

ElcomSoft Discovers Vulnerability in Nikon's Image Authentication System

Five months after discovering vulnerability in Canon’s Original Data Security System, ElcomSoft apparently found a similar problem with Nikon’s Image Authentication System. The system enables users to determine whether an image has been altered after capture, providing proof of image authenticity for the purposes of law enforcement, insurance, and so on. ElcomSoft claims to have identified a major flaw in the manner the secure image signing key is being handled, allowing forged images to pass validation with Nikon Image Authentication Software. “The signing cryptographic key can be extracted from the camera and used to sign any picture, genuine or not,” the company said in a statement, adding that “all past and current Nikon cameras supporting Image Authentication are affected, including Nikon D3X, D3, D700, D300S, D300, D2Xs, D2X, D2Hs, and D200 digital SLRs”.

Canon PowerShot A800 Review

The Canon PowerShot A800 is the cheapest model in Canon's extensive range of compacts, with a street price of just £70 / $80. This doesn't mean that the A800 is not worth a look, though, with a sensible spec of a 10 megapixel sensor, 3.3x zoom and 2.5 inch LCD screen making it well-suited to family life. Read our in-depth 10-page Canon PowerShot A800 review to find out if this budget shooter hits the mark.

Canon IXUS 115 HS Review

The Canon IXUS 115 HS (also known as the PowerShot ELPH 100 HS) is an affordable compact camera sporting some great features. These include a back-illuminated 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, full 1080p HD movie recording, a 28mm wide-angle lens with a fast maximum aperture of F/2.8 and a top ISO speed of 3200, all for under £200 / $200. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 115 HS review to find out if it's a real bargain...

Canon IXUS 310 HS Review

The new Canon IXUS 310 HS / PowerShot ELPH 500 HS is an impressive compact camera, on paper at least. It offers the usual IXUS style, a 3.2 inch touchscreen LCD, 12 megapixel back-illuminated sensor, fast f/2.0, wide-angle 4.4x lens, and full 1080p HD movies. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 310 HS review to find out if it can live up to its eye-catching headline specifications.

Canon EOS 1100D Review

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

Canon EOS 600D Review

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

Burrard-Lucas' Pet Photography Competition

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

Website: Pet Portraits Competition

Olympus XZ-1 Review

The new Olympus XZ-1 is a serious compact that's aimed at the enthusiast and professional user looking for a small yet capable pocket camera. A relatively large 1/1.63 inch CCD sensor, f/1.8 maximum aperture, 3 inch OLED screen and a full range of manual shooting modes should be enough to get their attention. But can the XZ1 take on the likes of the Panasonic LX5, Samsung EX-1 and Canon PowerShot S95? Read our detailed Olympus XZ-1 Review, complete with full-size JPEG, RAW and movie samples, to find out...

Canon IXUS 310 HS / PowerShot ELPH 500 HS

The Canon IXUS 310 HS / PowerShot ELPH 500 HS is a touch screen compact camera with superior low-light capabilities. The Canon 310 HS has a 12.1 megapixel sensor, f/2.0, 24mm, 4.4x zoom, 8.0 cm (3.2”) Touch LCD, and full 1080p HD movies. The Canon 310 HS / PowerShot 500 HS is available from early March 2011, priced at £299.00/€359.00/$299.99.

New HD DSLR Workshops

Cinematographer Gale Tattersall has announced his next series of master class workshops on Canon HD DSLR cameras. The workshops will specifically focus on the high-definition (HD) video capabilities of the cameras, and their use for film production. HD DSLR Workshops also plan a series of five day field trips where students will get the chance to work closely with Gale shooting a documentary film.

Canon IXUS 1000 HS Review

The new Canon IXUS 1000 HS introduces a long zoom lens to the style-conscious IXUS range of compact cameras. Also known as the SD4500 IS, the Canon IXUS 1000 HS boasts a 10x zoom, 10 megapixel back-illuminated sensor, 3 inch LCD screen and full 1080p HD movies. Is this the right travel-zoom camera for you? Find out in our in-depth Canon IXUS 1000 HS review, complete with full-size sample images and video.

Industry Big-Shots Propose New Memory Card Standards

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.

Sony A850 Review

The Sony A850 is the most "affordable" full-frame DSLR camera, featuring a 24.6 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen and an anti-shake function integrated into the body. Retailing for around $1999 / 1999 Euros / £1700, does the Sony A850 have what it takes to compete with its main rivals? Read our in-depth Sony A850 Review to find out...

Pentax Optio RZ10 Review

Not everyone needs a digital camera with all the latest bells and whistles. Enter stage left the new Pentax Optio RZ10, a 10x travelzoom camera with a 14 megapixel sensor, 720p HD movies and a 2.7 inch screen, all for under £175 / $200. Read our Pentax Optio RZ10 Review to find out if it has cut too many corners...

Cashback Offers from Canon

Canon UK has announced three cashback promotions for consumers. Those who purchase an EOS 7D or 5D Mark II between now and 31 January 2011 can claim up to £100 / €120 savings on selected EF lenses. The second offer concerns those who buy an EOS 500D digital SLR camera or one of three selected PowerShot models before 13 January, while the third is for consumers purchasing either a Pixma Pro9000 Mark II or a Pixma 9500 Mark II between now and 27 January. All of these offers are open to 18+ residents of the UK and Ireland, and valid on purchases made in one of these two countries.

'House' DP to Teach HDSLR Master Class

Emmy and ASC-nominated Director of Photography Gale Tattersall has just announced his new series of master class workshops on Canon HDSLR cameras. Famous - among other things - for being the first DP to film an entire episode of network television with hand-held digital SLR cameras, Gale Tattersall has decided to share his knowledge and his techniques with filmmakers, students and budding artists in a series of live workshops focussed on the video capabilities of Canon’s latest DSLR cameras in particular, and digital film production in general. For more information, visit the website below.

Canon PowerShot G12 Review

The Canon PowerShot G12 is a serious camera aimed firmly at the well-off amateur or pro looking for a carry-everywhere compact. Building on the success of previous G-series models, for 2010 the G12 principally adds 720p HD video, stereo sound, High Dynamic Range shooting mode, and a DSLR-like front control dial. £539 / €649 / $499.99 is an awful lot of money for a compact with a small image sensor - read our expert Canon PowerShot G12 review to find out if its worth it.

DxO Optics Pro 6.5

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

Canon Rebel T2i / EOS 550D

Canon Rebel T2i / EOS 550D is a new title in Ammonite’s Expanded Guides series. Written by experienced photographer and author Andy Stansfield, this full-colour guidebook fits neatly in a camera bag and includes a pull-out quick reference card. The step-by-step guide to the camera’s basic and advanced functions is complemented by practical tips on lighting, camera care and lens choice. The 240-page paperback will go on sale in November, at a price of 19.95 dollars.

Sony A390 Review

The Sony A390 is a new 14 megapixel DSLR that fixes one of the major gripes about its predecessor, the A380, namely its incredibly difficult to hold handgrip. The Sony A390 otherwise retains all the key features of its predecessor, including 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. Find out if the new hand-grip makes all the difference by reading our in-depth Sony A390 DSLR review.

Canon PowerShot S95 Review

The brand new Canon PowerShot S95 compact camera is the more refined successor of last year's S90 model, additionally offering 720p HD video, Hybrid IS technology and in-camera HDR shooting. The same innovative lens control ring, 10 megapixel CCD sensor, fast f/2.0, 3.8x zoom, RAW file support, full range of manual shooting modes, and a 3 inch LCD are all present and correct on the S95. The launch price has also been reduced, making the Canon S95 an even more attractive proposition as a pocketable yet very capable compact. Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot S95 review now.

Two New Canon Superteles Under Development

Canon today announced the development of two new super-telephoto lenses – the Canon EF 500mm F/4L IS II USM and the Canon EF 600mm F/4L IS II USM (pictured). Each will include the highest quality components, featuring high-specification image stabiliser technology alongside the use of optical materials such as fluorite, to correct aberrations ensuring high resolution images rich in detail and contrast. The redesigned, lightweight bodies will provide added mobility alongside enhanced protection against dust and water, the company says. The new lenses will be displayed for the first time in Europe during Photokina 2010.

Sigma SD15 Review

Sigma are best known for their extensive range of lenses for other manufacturer's DSLR systems, but they also produce their own DP range of premium compact cameras and SD range of DSLRs. New for 2010 is the long-awaited SD15 digital SLR, which was first announced back at Photokina 2008, a long wait in the fast-moving world of digital cameras. Can the SD15 with its Foveon sensor still compete in today's market? Read our in-depth Sigma SD15 review to find out...

Casio EX-FH25 Review

The Casio EX-FH25 is a super-zoom camera with a difference - its high-speed capabilities mean that it can take 30 still photos every second and even shoot 1,000fps video footage. The 10 megapixel EX-FH25 has a 20x lens with a focal range of 26-520mm, large 3 inch LCD screen and a wealth of automatic shooting modes to make your life easier. Read our comprehensive Casio EX-FH25 review to find out if this is the right high-zoom camera for you...

Futuresource Releases Report on Market Opportunity for Interchangeable-Lens Compact Cameras

Futuresource has released a report on the Western European market opportunity for interchangeable-lens compact digital cameras, better known as EVILs. “In the short-term, whilst we are expecting significant growth for the Interchangeable Lens Compact market, it will still only reach shipments of 377,000 units across Western Europe in 2010, compared to expectations of 3.3m units for DSLRs,” opines James Wells, consultant with Futuresource. “Panasonic, Olympus, Sony and Samsung (with a 20% combined share of interchangeable lens camera shipments in 2009) are expected to promote this segment heavily in 2010, particularly at the Photokina show in September in the run up to the important fourth quarter period. The long term aim is to try to break Canon’s and Nikon’s stranglehold on the interchangeable lens camera market. Suffice to say this will be an interesting space to watch over the next two to three years.”

Canon Wonder Camera

Have you ever wanted to know what one of the world’s biggest camera manufacturers thinks the future looks like? Wonder no more, as Canon have been showing off their Wonder Camera Concept at the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai. This hairdryer-like fixed lens camera will zoom all the way up to 5000mm, have a touch-sensitive interface and only shoot video. Don’t sell your DSLR kit just yet, as Canon’s Wonder Camera might be yours sometime around 2030. Click through to take a look at a video demo courtesy of Gizmag.

DxO Optics Pro 6.2

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.

Sigma 50-500mm f4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Now Available in UK

The new Sigma 50-500mm f4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM has now arrived in the UK. Presently available in Sigma, Canon and Nikon fittings, the Sigma 50-500mm f4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM has a suggested retail price of £1399.99. The Pentax and Sony versions will follow shortly, said Paul Reynolds of Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd. Incorporating Sigma’s original Optical Stabiliser function, the Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration, the company says.

Picture Porter 35 Firmware 1.2.1

Digital Foci has announced a major new firmware update for the Picture Porter 35 high-capacity portable photo manager. New features in version 1.2.1 include incremental photo backup, full screen preview and selection for convenient viewing, USB mode selection for secondary backup to external USB storage devices, and new professional DSLR extended camera support for RAW, EXIF data, IPTC and histograms. Picture Porter 35 features a 3.5-inch color LCD screen for easy viewing; built-in hard drive with 250GB and 500GB capacities, priced at $399 and $499, respectively; fast copy speeds of 1GB of data under 90 seconds; and a multi-format memory card reader for CF, MMC, SD/HC Card, miniSD, Memory Stick, MS PRO, MS Duo, and xD-Picture card.

Website: Picture Porter 35 Firmware 1.2.1 Release Notes

Canon Cashback Offers

Canon UK has announced new cashback offers on select Canon EOS digital SLR cameras. The offers expire on 31 May. Those who buy the Canon EOS 500D before this date can claim £30 / €33 back. Those who purchase the Canon EOS 550D are entitled to a cashback of £50 / €55, whilst new Canon EOS 50D owners can get back £65 / €70 from the retail price. The offers are valid in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

Canon EOS 550D Review

The Canon EOS 550D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T2i in North America) is a new DSLR camera that boasts a class-leading 18-megapixel and the ability to shoot 1080p high-definition videos. Other key features of the 550D / T2i include continuous shooting at 3.7fps, a 3-inch LCD screen with 1,040k dot resolution, ISO range of 100-12,800, 14-bit image processing and Canon's Digic 4 processor. Is the Canon EOS 550D / T2i the best mid-range digital SLR camera on the market? Read our expert review to find out...

Canon EOS 7D Digital Field Guide

The Canon EOS 7D Digital Field Guide is a practical, full-colour book designed to help you get the very most out of the EOS 7D. The book covers the camera’s new features, including the 19-point autofocus, new metering system, integrated Speedlight Transmitter, 8fps continuous shooting, and video capabilities. In addition, it teaches you photography essentials such as composition, exposure, perspective, and more, and includes a grey and colour card checker and full instructions. The 304-page guide is available in paperback and Kindle editions, priced at €16.00 / $19.99.

Website: Canon EOS 7D Digital Field Guide

DxO Optics Pro to Support 70 New Lens & Camera Combinations

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

Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Hits Shelves in US

Sigma USA has announced that the Canon version of the newly-upgraded Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM is now available at retail. Incorporating Sigma’s original Optical Stabiliser function, the Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration, the company says. The Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM lens is now available for purchase in Canon mounts through authorised Sigma dealers at the MSRP of $2,400 (Amazon is actually offering it at $1,599 but it still says it “has not yet been released”). Nikon mounts will be available later this month, and they will be followed by Sigma, Pentax and Sony mounts in April.

PMA 2010 Show Report

Our roving reporter Jon Canfield looks back at the highlights of what was a fairly quiet PMA 2010 photography show.

Canon EOS 500D Firmware 1.1.0

Canon has issued a firmware update for the Canon EOS 500D / Digital Rebel T1i digital SLR camera. Version 1.1.0 enahnces the reliability of Live View and fixes incorrect indications in the Arabic, English and Swedish menus.

Website: Canon EOS Digital Rebel T1i / 500D Firmware Update Page

64GB SanDisk Ultra SDXC Memory Card

SanDisk has begun shipping the 64GB SanDisk Ultra SDXC card, the company’s highest-capacity Secure Digital memory card ever. With its 64GB capacity, up to 15MB/sec read speed and Class 4 speed rating, the new card is ideal for capturing and storing massive 1080p High-Definition video files and then transferring them quickly to a computer. The first SDXC compliant digital compact cameras have already been announced, and widespread adoption of SDXC is expected to occur across a range of consumer electronic products in the future. The 64GB SanDisk Ultra SDXC memory card is available immediately via SanDisk’s US e-commerce site with a price of $349.99.

Sigma 50-500mm f5-6.3 DG OS HSM

The Sigma 50-500mm f5-6.3 DG OS HSM is an ultra telephoto lens offering a 10x zoom ratio. Incorporating Sigma’s original Optical Stabiliser function, the Sigma 50-500mm f5-6.3 offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration. The addition of the optional 1.4x EX DG or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 70-700mm F6.3-8 or a 100-1000mm F9-12.6 MF zoom lens respectively.

Trek-Tech Essentials

The Essentials from Trek-Tech is a new a collection of multipurpose photography and video stabilization tools. The Essentials packs a monopod, tripod, hiking staff, table-top tripod, pan and tilt video head and a versatile clamping arm into a single compact bag that fits in a carry-on. Trek-Tech’s The Essentials costs $199.99 for a limited time.

Canon EOS-1D Mark IV Shoots the Super Bowl

Canon’s latest professional digital SLR camera, the EOS-1D Mark IV, was used by pro photographers to shoot Super Bowl XLIV. “Shooting at Super Bowl XLIV with the EOS-1D Mark IV was a night-and-day improvement compared to previous EOS models. It blew them all away. The 1D Mark IV exceeded my expectations quite a bit,” said Daniel Powers, staff photographer, Gannett Co., Inc. “The autofocus and tracking are razor sharp. After the NFL Wildcard Playoff game I was submitting 10 to 12 shot sequences all in crisp focus.” remarked Tom Hauck, of Tom Hauck Photography. The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV is available now for £4499 / €5499.

Canon EOS 550D / Rebel T2i

Canon has just unveiled the Canon EOS 550D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T2i in North America); a consumer-grade 18-megapixel digital SLR camera that can shoot 1080p high-definition videos. Canon’s advanced DIGIC 4 image processor and 18MP sensor support standard ISO settings of 100 – 6400 (expandable to 12800), while enhanced in-camera noise reduction technology boosts performance in low light conditions. The system’s 14-bit image processing produces smooth tonal gradation and natural looking colours for high quality prints and on-screen display. The EOS 550D / Rebel T2i also supports high-speed, continuous shooting at 3.7 frames per second. A 7.7cm / 3” Clear View LCD screen with 1,040k dot resolution and anti-reflective coating makes it possible to view the scene and your captured your images in bright conditions and from a variety of angles. The EOS 550D body only is available from 24th February 2010 priced at £799.99 / €899. In the USA, the Canon EOS Rebel T2i is expected to hit the shelves in early March priced at $799.99.

Nikon D3S Review

The Nikon D3S is the best low-light camera ever - period. Offering an incredible ISO range of 100 to 102,400, you really can use the D3S hand-held in the dimmest of lighting conditions, for both still images and 720p video. Pros will also love the 51-point AF module, 9-fps continuous shooting speed, large high-resolution LCD screen and weatherproofed body. Which is just as well - as they're probably the only ones who can afford the eye-watering £4199.99 / €5100.00 / $5199.95 price-tag. Zoltan Arva-Toth finds out if the new Nikon D3S is also the best ever DSLR camera...

Bright Ideas for Lighting Portraits

Pro photographer Sandi Friend shares some bright lighting ideas for improving your portrait photos.

DxO Optics Pro v6.1.2 for Windows

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

How to Choose and Use Lenses - Part 1

One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to choose the best lenses for you.

CES 2010 - Editor's Picks

Over the past week we posted over 50 CES-related articles, mostly product announcements, so don’t blame yourself if you are feeling a little overwhelmed and wondering if there have been any major pieces of news among these. We’ve just put together a list of what we thought were the most interesting photography-related products announced before or at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show. But before we delve into these, let’s summarise in a few words the main tendencies that emerge from this avalanche. Firstly, the sheer number of digital compact cameras announced was way beyond expectations. In some cases, the companies didn’t even bother to highlight the differences between the models in any detail, or indeed differentiate the cameras in any meaningful way. Secondly, it’s evident that certain features that used to come at a premium are now must-haves in entry-level models too. These include HD video, at least 4x zoom and image stabilisation. While there still are 3x zoom models with VGA video recording and no optical or mechanical image stabilisation, these are becoming the exception rather than the rule. Thirdly, 2010 has brought the almost total victory of the SD card, with both Olympus and Sony giving in to the trend. While Sony is still making Memory Sticks, it has announced its own branded SD/SDHC cards, and made all of its new compacts capable of reading them. Olympus apparently said goodbye to its xD cards and also made its newest cameras compatible with SD. Meanwhile, CES 2010 also saw the appearance of the first SDXC cards and SDXC host devices.

After these general tendencies, let us now see the products that have grabbed our attention the most.

Photosimile 5000

Ortery Technologies has released Photosimile 5000, a PC-controlled desktop photography studio that integrates a 28 x 28 x 28” light box with a Canon SLR camera and powerful workflow software to simplify and automate business photography. The device features 6500K bulbs, an automated camera positioning system and built-in turntable that holds up to 25lbs. The camera and light box connect to a PC via USB. Photosimile 5000 software controls the studio, camera location, turntable movement, camera settings, picture taking and processing workflows. Simply place an item inside, compose using Preview, Zoom and Crop commands in the software. Click Snap and the picture automatically downloads to the PC screen in seconds, Ortery claims. Additionally, Ortery Real3D, included in Photosimile 5000 for image composition, creates full spherical, hemispherical and cylindrical animations with mouse control, image tagging and deep zoom capabilities to 14X, with the resulting product animations being allegedly comparable to interacting with the physical product. Photosimile 5000 runs on Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7. The press release makes no mention of the price, but don’t expect the Photosimile 5000 to be cheap.

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM

Canon today introduced the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens. Built for the professional, the body structure of the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens has been enhanced to provide better durability and strength without a significant increase in weight, the manufacturer claims. Canon has improved optical performance on the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens by redesigning the internal elements, incorporating a fluorite element and a fifth UD element. The use of the fluorite element and five UD elements helps to minimise secondary chromatic aberrations and produce better image quality with improved contrast and resolution through the entire zoom range. Along with its redesigned optical elements, the new lens design features improved AF speed due to a new focusing algorithm and Canon has reduced the minimum focusing distance to 3.9 feet (1.2 metres) through the entire zoom range. The enhanced magnesium alloy barrel design of the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens features added strength with a minimal 20-gram increase in weight compared with the previous model (1490g vs. 1470g) and retains Canon’s protective seals and fittings providing dust and water resistance for those photographers working in adverse conditions. Other noticeable improvements include a wider focusing ring, and sleeker design by reducing the thickness of any protruding elements such as the switch panel. The new lens is scheduled to be delivered to dealers in April, price to be determined.

Don Zeck Lens Cap Now Available for Most High-End Nikkors

The innovative Don Zeck lens caps for long telephoto lenses, which used to be manufactured for Canon lenses only, are now available for most high-end AF-S / VR Nikkors. Don Zeck lens caps have been engineered for superior protection from scratches, dust, rain and other hazards. The lens caps are equipped with a collapsible low-profile handle, so that the cap can easily be mounted or removed while the hood is in either the shooting or stored position. The Don Zeck lens cap is now available for the 200mm F2.0 VR, 300mm F2.8 VR, 300mm F2.8 AF-S, 400mm F2.8 VR, 400mm F2.8 AF-S, 500mm F4 VF, 500mm F4 AF-S, 600mm F4 VR and the 200-400mm F4 VR Nikkors, in addition to a number of large Canon EF lenses. The “Don Zeck Lens Cap” sells for $54.95 and comes with a 30 day money back guarantee as well as a lifetime warranty for materials and workmanship.

Website: Don Zeck

DxO Optics Pro 6.1 for Windows

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

Olympus E-600 Review

The new Olympus E-600 DSLR has all the features of a mid-range camera at an entry-level price. Heavily based upon the existing E-620 model, the E600 loses a few of its bigger brother's features in order to hit a more competitive price-point - namely $599.99 / £549.99 with the 14-42mm f3.5/5.6 Zuiko lens. Gavin Stoker finds out if there's still enough on offer in our Olympus E-600 review.

Canon PowerShot S90 Review

The new Canon PowerShot S90 compact camera offers a lot of DSLR functionality in a pocketable format. Support for the RAW format, full range of manual shooting modes, and a fast f/2.0 lens should grab any keen photographer's attention, especially as the Canon S90 can easily slip inside a shirt pocket. This seemingly winning combination of size and features doesn't come cheap though - £449.00 / €519.00 / $429.99 is an awful lot to ask for what is after all still a camera with a tiny image sensor. Gavin Stoker sizes up the Canon PowerShot S90 in our latest expert review...

Pentax K-x Review

Pentax have been producing excellent DSLR cameras for some time now, and their latest model, the K-x model, is certainly no exception. The small and lightweight 12 megapixel Pentax Kx has a wealth of features, including 4.7fps continuous shooting, 11-point auto-focus, high-definition video, auto modes for beginners and manual modes for experts. With an official price of £599.99 / $599.95, the K-x also won't break the bank. Mark Goldstein finds out if the new Pentax Kx deserves a place on your DSLR short-list...

Canon PowerShot SX120 IS Review

The Canon PowerShot SX120 IS is one of the most affordable super-zoom cameras around. For less than £225 / $250, the Canon SX120 offers a 10x optical zoom lens, 10 megapixels, 3 inch LCD screen and fast DIGIC 4 processor. Curiously aimed at both the family market, with Easy and Smart Auto modes, and prosumers, with a full range of manual controls, is the Canon PowerShot SX120 IS a successful jack-of-all-trades or master-of-none? Mark Goldstein finds out...

Mail-In Rebates on Select Tamron Lenses

In addition to the special rebates announced two months ago, Tamron USA now has a mail-in rebate offer on its two newest lenses: SP AF17-50mm F/2.8 XR VC Di II LD Aspherical IF and SP AF60mm F/2.0 Di II LD IF 1:1 Macro. The two new lenses are designed for APS-C size DSLRs and are available in Canon and Nikon mounts (plus Sony in the case of the macro). The $25 rebate is valid on purchases of these lenses made by US residents at an authorized Tamron USA retailer from 15 October 2009 through 31 December 2009. As noted, there are other, ongoing rebates on offer too: consumers receive $70 back on the 18-270mm VC and $60 on the 18-200mm, both popular and award-winning all-in-one zooms, when purchased between until the end of this year

DSLR Camera Remote Server 1.2

onOne Software has launched version 1.2 of DSLR Camera Remote Server, their server-side application that allows you to remotely control your DSLR using an iPhone or iPod Touch. The new version adds support for the Nikon D300s, improves on the permissions detection and warning on Mac OS X, and fixes a number of issues with the Canon EOS 500D and Nikon D300 cameras. Note that DSLR Remote Server is the application that runs on your PC or Mac, to which the camera is connected. It’s not the app that runs on the iPhone or iPod Touch itself. DSLR Remote Server 1.2 is compatible with version 1.1 of the iPhone/iPod app.

Canon Digital IXUS 200 IS Review

Canon have entered the touch-screen camera market with their first ever interactive compact, the new Canon Digital IXUS 200 IS (also called the PowerShot SD980 IS Digital ELPH). The 3 inch LCD screen can be used to focus on the main subject, set the camera options and playback your images. In addition to getting all touch-feely, the Canon IXUS 200 also offers a wide-angle 5x zoom lens, 12 megapixels and 720p HD video. Available in a variety of colours for around £329.00 / $329 / €379.00, Gavin Stoker gets to grips with the Canon Digital IXUS 200 IS.

Photo Mechanic 4.6.2

Camera Bits has announced the launch of its new camerabits.com website, the introduction of its improved Photo Mechanic user manual and the October 22, 2009 general availability of Photo Mechanic version 4.6.2.  The launch of Photo Mechanic 4.6.2 will coincide with PhotoPlus Expo in New York City from 22 to 24 October. The new camerabits.com will have a library of video tutorials, helpful for both beginners and professionals alike, detailed feature / function descriptions and screen captures. It will also serve as the home of the improved Photo Mechanic user manual, which incorporates several new sets of instructions, tips and techniques.

Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W1 Review

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

Canon Announces DSLR Cashback Promotion

Canon are offering photographic students at UK institutions the chance to receive cashback on the purchase of a new Canon EOS 450D or 500D DSLR. The promotion runs until 31 October 2009. Apart from photographic students, lecturers and technicians working on photographic courses are also eligible to take part. The cashback on EOS 450D configurations amounts to £50, whereas those purchasing an EOS 500D can claim £65. Cameras can be purchased from any authorised Canon retailer. Once purchased, send the claim form, proof of purchase and UK academic accreditation to the to the freepost address as it appears on the form. Claim forms can be downloaded pre or post purchase. Customers will receive their cheque within 28 days of the forms reaching Canon

Leica M8.2 Review

Based on the famous analogue M-series cameras, the Leica M8.2 is 10 megapixel digital rangefinder camera aimed firmly at the professional user. The £3900 / $5999 body-only M8.2 is a serious investment, and with Leica announcing its successor this week, the 18 megapixel full-frame M9, you could argue that its days are numbered. We find out if the M8.2 is still worth a look...

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS Review

World Exclusive! This is the first online review of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS super-zoom camera. Featuring a 20x wide-angle zoom lens, 12 megapixels, 2.5 inch tilting LCD screen, electronic viewfinder, external flash hotshoe, HD video recording and full range of shooting modes, the compact Canon SX20 sounds like a thinking photographer's dream. Read our in-depth review of the Canon SX20 IS to find out if it lives up to expectations...

DxO Optics Pro 5.3.5

DxO Labs have announced the immediate availability of version 5.3.5 of its DxO Optics Pro software, which adds support to the new Sony A850. Another feature is better noise control for images taken at high ISO with the Sony Alpha 900. Plus, there are 85 new DxO Optics Modules that cover fisheye lenses, wide-angles, and prime lenses as well as many zooms such as the 15x Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Macro - a lens type for which DxO Optic Pro’s optical corrections are particularly efficient along its entire focal range, the company says. DxO Optics Pro v5.3.5 and upgrades are available immediately for Mac and Windows platforms from the DxO Labs e store (www.dxo.com) and from quality resellers. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since August 1, 2007 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 5.3.5.

Sony A330 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 A380 Review

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.

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel T1i/500D Companion

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel T1i/500D Companion is a new book written by Ben Long and published by O’Reilly. Although the Canon EOS Digital Rebel T1i/500D comes with a manual, Long explains why you might need this book to get the most out of your camera. “Knowing what each button on your camera does won’t necessarily mean you can shoot great pictures. Personally, I know the basic concept of a paintbrush, but I can’t paint a decent painting to save my life. To use a creative tool well, you must understand both the technique and the craft of the tool, as well as have some sense of artistry when you use it.” The book sells for $24.99 USD, £18.99 GBP, but it is also available as an ebook for just $19.99 USD.

Travel Writing and Photography Awards 2009

TNT Magazine has anounced a travel writing and photography contest. There are three categories including “Your London”, “People” and “The narural world”. Each of the category winners will be awarded a Canon EOS 500D with EF-S 18-55mm IS lens kit (pictured). The Readers’ Choice Award for Best Travel Photograph is an Olympus E-420 double zoom kit. As always, we recommend that you read the rules before submitting aby photos.

Website: Travel Writing and Phtoography Competition

Iridient RAW Developer 1.8.4

Iridient Digital have released RAW Developer 1.8.4, which adds support for new digital cameras including the Olympus E-P1 and the Pentax K-7. Other newly supported models include the Canon EOS 500D, the Kodak Z980, the Nikon D5000, the Olympus E-450, the Sony A230, A330 and A380, the Panasonic GH1 and the Phase One 40+. Furthermore, the program can now handle DNG files generated by scanners. The new release also boasts a number of improvements over the previous version, plus a couple of bug fixes related to Hasselblad and Leaf images. Note that RAW Developer is a Mac only application.

Website: Iridient RAW Developer Release Notes

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2.4

Adobe today released the final Photoshop Lightroom 2.4 and Camera Raw 5.4 updates. Both updates bring additional raw file support to 31camera and camera back models including the Canon EOS 500D, Nikon D5000. In addition, Adobe released an update to its Digital Negative specification. DNG 1.3 now includes opcodes, a defined list of operations and their parameters for performing complex activities in the raw file conversion process. By utilising opcodes, photographers can maintain the advantages of raw mosaic data, giving them increased opportunity to improve their photographs with the maximum amount of image data preserved. The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2.4 update is available as a free download for existing Lightroom 2 customers and Camera Raw 5.4 is available as a free download for existing customers of Photoshop CS4, Photoshop Elements 7, Premiere Elements 7 and Photoshop Elements 6 for Mac. Click through / read on for the full list of newly supported cameras and backs.

Website: Lightroom 2.4 & ACR 5.4 Updates
Website: DNG Specification

Nikon D5000 Review

The Nikon D5000 is the latest digital SLR camera to incorporate a video recording mode, capable of producing 720p, 1280x720 pixel movies at 30fps complete with sound. The 12.3 megapixel D5000 also features a vari-angle LCD screen, making unusual picture compostions easier than with a fixed screen. More traditional SLR features include an ISO range of 100-6400, 4fps continuous shooting, and 11-point autofocus system. Retailing for £719.99 / €878.00 / $729.95 body only, or £799.99 / €972.00 / $849.95 with the 18-55mm VR kit lens, we find out if the Nikon D5000 can successfuly combine video and still images in our latest expert review.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 Review

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

DxO Optics Pro 5.3.4

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

Website: DxOMark

Annabel Williams Photographer of the Year

Wedding and Lifestyle photographer Sofie Louca has been announced as the Annabel Williams Photographer of the Year 2009. The competition attracted almost 1000 entries, from as far afield as Australia and India, and boasted a total prize fund of more than £10,000. Sofie won the Teenagers/Adults category of the awards and was also runner up in the Wedding Album category, before going on to be awarded the overall Photographer of the Year award with her shot of a young couple on a beach.  On top of her category prizes, Sofie also scoops a Canon EOS 5D MkII camera and lens worth more than £2,500.

Olympus E-620 Review

The Olympus E-620 is an affordable mid-range digital SLR camera that offers a lot of bang for your buck. The 12 megapixel E620 features built-in image stabilisation, a free-angle LCD screen, compact dimensions and light weight, 7-point autofocus system and 6 Art filters. Is the E-620 the best Olympus DSLR yet? Read our expert review to find out.

Apple Issues Digital Camera Raw Update

Apple has released a Digital Camera Raw Compatibility Update along with updates to the iLife Support software and three iLife ‘09 applications. The Digital Camera Raw Compatibility Update adds support for the Canon EOS 500D, the Nikon D5000 and the Olympus E-30 (pictured). The iLife Support update (version 9.0.3) improves the stability of the Media Browser, addresses certain compatibility issues and contains some additional, minor fixes. iPhoto 8.0.3 embeds GPS co-ordinates in emailed photos and exported JPEGs, improves slideshow playback and fixes a few other issues. iMovie version 8.0.3 adds AVCHD Lite support, while iDVD version 7.0.4 addresses general compatibility issues.

Website: Apple Support Downloads

Adobe Photoshop Camera Raw 5.4 Release Candidate

Adobe has released its Photoshop Camera Raw 5.4 Release Candidate, available immediately as a free download for existing customers of Photoshop CS4, Photoshop Elements 7, Premiere Elements 7 and Photoshop Elements 6 for Mac. The Camera Raw 5.4 Release Candidate extends raw file support to an additional 26 camera and camera back models including the Canon EOS 500D (EOS Rebel T1i), Epson R-D1x, Kodak EasyShare Z980, Nikon D5000, Olympus E-620, Olympus E-450, Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1, Sigma DP2 and 18 Hasselblad models.

Website: Adobe Camera Labs

Canon EOS 500D Review

The Canon EOS 500D is the latest DSLR camera to jump on the HD video bandwagon, offering 1080p and 720p quality settings. Also known as the Digital Rebel T1i, the successor to the EOS 450D features a 15 megapixel CMOS sensor, 940,000 dot 3-inch LCD screen, Live View and ISO range of 100-12800. At $799.99 / £869.99 body only or $899.99 / £969.99 with the EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 IS kit lens, find out if the Canon EOS 500D is the best consumer digital SLR in our expert review.

Raw Photo Processor 3.9.5

Andrey Tverdokhleb has announced version 3.9.5 of his Mac-only raw developer, Raw Photo Processor. The new release includes entirely new camera profiles for the Canon 5D MkII, 1Ds MkIII, 50D, the Sony A900, the Olympus E620, E3, E30, the Panasonic G1 and LX3 and more accurate profiles for the Sony A700, A350, A300, A200, A100, the Olympus E410, E420, E510, E520 and the Kodak SLR/c, SLR/n, 14NX, 14N and ProBack. Furthermore, it adds support for the Canon EOS 500D (T1i, KISS X, pictured), the Canon SX1 IS and the Kodak Z1015 IS.

Website: Raw Photo Processor

Canon DSLR Firmware Updates

Canon have released firmware updates for three of its DSLRs, the EOS 50D, 450D (XSi, pictured) and 1000D (XS). In all three cases the new firmware update supports the AF assist beam feature of the new Speedlite 270EX  flash, which was introduced alongside the Canon EOS 500D digital SLR a month ago. In addition, the 50D firmware update also changes the error indications that are displayed on the camera and addresses the vertical banding noise phenomenon.

Website: Canon EOS 50D Firmware Update Version 1.0.6
Website: Canon EOS 450D Firmware Update Version 1.1.0
Website: Canon EOS 1000D Firmware Update Version 1.0.5

Nikon D3x Review

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

Nikon D5000 Hands-On

We spent some hands-on time with the new Nikon D5000 at today’s UK launch. Although we couldn’t actually shoot any photos with the pre-production cameras on display, we have compiled a gallery of 22 images showing the D5000 from every conceivable angle.

Canon Produces 10 Millionth Consumer DSLR

Canon has announced that it has produced over 10 million consumer DSLRs since the launch of the Canon EOS Digital Rebel / 300D in 2003. The increasing volume of consumer-orientated DSLR models on the market has also driven an increase in the volume of lens sales. Canon’s EF lens portfolio is allegedly the world’s most extensive range of DSLR lenses, with over 60 models and 40 million sales worldwide.

Canon EOS 500D / Rebel T1i

Canon have just unveiled the 15.1-megapixel Canon EOS EOS 500D / Rebel T1i digital SLR. The new camera is the first Rebel to feature HD video capture - 720p at 30fps as well as Full HD 1080p at 20fps. Other highlights include a Digic 4 image processor, 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion, a three-inch, 920,000-dot rear screen, Auto Lighting Optimiser, Creative Auto Mode and Live View. Continuous shooting is available at 3.4 frames per second, for up to 170 JPEG or 9 raw images when using a class 6 or higher SD or SDHC memory card. The Canon EOS 500D / Rebel T1i provides ISO speeds from ISO 100 up to ISO 3200 in whole stop increments, along with two additional high-speed ISO settings – H1: 6400 and H2: 12800. Live View comes in three flavours, Quick, Live and Face Detection Live. To combat any dust particles that may have settled on its 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, the Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit for the Canon EOS Rebel T1i / EOS 500D has been upgraded with a fluorine coating on the low-pass filter for better dust resistance.

The Canon EOS Rebel T1i / EOS 500D digital SLR is scheduled for delivery in May, at an estimated body-only price of $799.99. Throwing in an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS kit zoom will set you back an additional $100. In Europe, the recommended retail price is £869.99 / €999.99 for the body and £969.99 / €1139.99 for the afore-mentioned kit including VAT. There’s also an additional 500D kit with the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens priced at £1399.99 / €1639.99.

Out of Africa with David Noton

Our new regular columnist, one of the UK’s leading landscape and travel photographers, <a href="http://www.davidnoton.com/">David Noton</a>, takes us behind-the-scenes on safari in Africa.

Vivitar Cameras, DSLR Lenses and Flashes

Sakar have unveiled new Vivitar products including digital, underwater and video cameras, digital SLR camera lenses and flashes. The Vivitar V8400P ($129.95) is an 8 megapixel that’s waterproof at depths up to 30 feet. The Vivitar V8025 ($99) is an 8 megapixel touch-screen camera. The Vivitar Series 1 Lenses for DSLRs includes an 85mm F1.4A spherical lens for portraits and a a 650-1300mm super telephoto lens. Vivitar Series 1 Flashes includes the DF-283 ($129.95) bounce, zoom, swivel AF flash and the DF-383 ($199.95) power zoom LCD display flash.

PocketWizard ControlTL Remote Flash

PocketWizard ControlTL is a new easy-to-use remote flash system. You can simply slide-in, turn-on and shoot with the new PocketWizard MiniTT1 and FlexTT5, regardless of flash positioning or daylight. The MiniTT1 Transmitter is a tiny, low-profile unit that slides into the camera’s hot shoe. The FlexTT5 Transceiver is also a low-profile but slightly larger transceiver. Both PocketWizard ControlTL solutions take the complex TTL data being sent through the camera’s hot shoe and digitally transmit it in a reliable radio signal. Photographers can now place TTL (or manual) flash units anywhere to illuminate the scene. Changes in ISO, aperture and shutter speed are seamlessly passed along for reliable, flawless flash. You can even use your flash compensation controls to make changes in flash output. PocketWizard ControlTL versions for Canon are available March 1st, Nikon in 2Q, 2009. Prices are $199 for the MiniTT1 and $219 for the FlexTT5 in the US and Canada. The MiniTT1 and Flex TT5 for Canon will be available in April 2009 the UK through JP Distribution (prices to be confirmed).

Annabel Williams 2009 Photographic Awards

The Annabel Williams 2009 Photographic Awards are aimed at all wedding, portrait and lifestyle photographers. There are seven different categories to enter, with the overall winner awarded ‘Annabel Williams Photographer of the Year 2009”. With a total prize fund of more than £10,000, the awards will run until 31st March 2009. The entry fee is £5.00 and you can enter as many categories as you like.

Sigma EO-ETTL II Flashgun Problem with Canon 50D

Sigma’s range of EO-ETTL II flashguns do not work with the Canon EOS 50D DSLR camera. The Autozoom function does not work properly, and exposure is not set correctly. Sigma are supplying a free-upgrade service to their customers to solve the problem. All new products shipped after today already include the updated firmware.

16GB SanDisk Extreme IV

SanDisk have unveiled a 16GB Extreme IV high-performance memory card at Photokina, and also have boosted the speed of the entire Extreme IV range up to 45 megabytes per second. SanDisk Extreme IV CF cards have undergone internal testing with many leading manufacturers’ cameras and DSLRs, such as Canon’s EOS series, Nikon’s D300 and D3 cameras, the Sony Alpha A700, and the Olympus E500 and E3 cameras. Depending on the camera used, the increased performance of the SanDisk Extreme IV memory card line may help reduce the delay between shots, enabling photographers to take more photos overall. The 16GB SanDisk Extreme IV CompactFlash memory card is available now for $399.99 in the United States and €281 in Europe.

Canon 40D and Sigma 120-400mm / 150-500mm Lenses

Sigma are offering a free upgrade service to Canon EOS 40D users experiencing problems with the 120-400mm and 150-500mm lenses. When the Canon 40D digital SLR is in AI Servo AF mode and the OS function is switched ON, the number of continuous frames per second will decrease. This issue affects all Sigma APO 120-400mm lenses with a Serial Number lower than 1011001, and all Sigma APO 150-500mm lenses with a Serial Number lower than 1007001.

3rd Canon Photography In The Parks Contest

Canon USA has announced a call for entries for the third annual Canon Photography In The Parks Photo Contest. You can enter the competition from April 22nd to September 30th 2008 by submitting images from any park or monument in America. The theme for this year’s contest is “Inspirational Nature Images”. The winner of the Photography In The Parks contest will receive a trip to a park of their choice, and a full suite of Canon photographic equipment.

Jonathan Torgovnik Wins 2008 ASMP Arnold Newman Prize

The second annual ASMP Arnold Newman Prize has been awarded to photographer Jonathan Torgovnik. The work of Torgovnik, “Intended Consequences: Genocide Mothers, Children of Rape,”, was selected from nearly 300 images submitted in the 2008 contest. He will receive a grant in the amount of $2,500 cash from Getty Images and a Canon EOS 30D camera. The ASMP Arnold Newman Prize prize recognizes the work of a contemporary environmental portrait photographer whose imagery is grounded in the traditions and values that Newman pioneered.

Canon Raises £27,000 for British Red Cross

Canon has raised £27,205 for the British Red Cross from sales of the red Canon PowerShot A460 digital camera in selected Tesco stores. Selling over 5000 units, Canon donated £5 from the sale of each camera. The money raised will be spent on essential British Red Cross services in local communities in the UK.

Canon EOS 450D / Digital Rebel XSi

The Canon EOS 450D / Digital Rebel XSi is a new 12 megapixel compact DSLR camera. looking very similar to the previous 400D from the outside, the EOS 450D / Digital Rebel XSi features a larger 3 inch LCD screen, new 9-point AF system, 14-bit processing, Live View mode with contrast detection AF mode (like the Panasonic L10) and 3.5fps continuous mode. The Canon EOS 450D / Digital Rebel XSi will be available body only for $799 / £599.99 / €899.99 and with the 18-55mm IS kit lens for £679.99 / €999.99, available from March 2008.

Photosimile 5000 Office Photography Machine

Photosimile 5000 is the world’s first office photography machine, allowing anyone to create professional, shadow-free pictures. Launched by Ortery Technologies, the Photosimile 5000 is a combination of 28 x 28 x 28” light box, Canon digital camera and powerful workflow software. Photosimile 5000 also creates 360-degree product shots and spherical 3D flash animations. Photosimile 5000 is compatible with Windows ME/2000/XP and will be available March 2008, price to beconfirmed.

30 Million Canon EOS Cameras

Production of Canon EOS SLR cameras has just passed the 30 million mark, with 10 million of those digital bodies. The achievement coincides with Canon’s 70th anniversary and the 20th anniversary of the launch of its EOS line of SLR cameras. In March of 1987, Canon’s 50th anniversary, the company introduced the EOS 650 AF SLR camera (pictured), the first model of the EOS series. One for the fact-fans out there - EOS is the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn.

86% of British Not Photogenic?

Research by Canon has revealed that that 86% of Brits believe they’re un-photogenic, with over half insecure about their stomachs! A third of us take action to hide double chins being seen in photos. Londoners are the most vain with more than a quarter admitting to regularly re-touching images to improve how they look. One in five people in the UK even believes that they have appeared in up to 5000 pictures in their lifetime.

Canon 20th Anniversary Cash Back Offers

Canon has launched a second cash back promotion to run across the Christmas selling period. You have the chance to save over £1,000/€1,500 across 24 products, including the EOS 400D (£50/€70), the EOS 40D (£50/€70) and the EOS 5D (£135/€200) DSLR cameras. The promotion also includes aselection of lenses and accessories. The cash back offer also applies across all of Canon’s Photo Kits. A full breakdown of all the various offers is available by clicking the link below.

Canon EOS 40D Review at e-Photographia

e-Photographia have reviewed the Canon EOS 40D digital SLR camera, which offers a 10.1 megapixel sensor, 6.5 fps continuous shooting and 3 inch LCD screen.

“It only took a few shots to notice the difference in focusing. Focusing is faster and very accurate. I took more than 500 shots that night, some of them in burst mode with 6.5 fps, and the AF system proved to be equal to that of Canon 1-series cameras. The central point worked well even without flash. I can’t think of a single other camera in this class with such a great AF system.”

Website: e-Photographia - Canon EOS 40D Review

Website: Read our Canon EOS 40D Review

Saturday Shout: Which new DSLR would you buy?

The last few weeks have seen a number of exciting new DSLR cameras announced, with the majority aimed at the prosumer photographer with around £1,000 / $1,500 burning a hole in their back pocket. Saturday Shout returns with a bang this week, as we ask you which “affordable” new DSLR camera would you buy, and why? Yes, that’s right, we’re asking you to pick just one of the following big-hitters:

Canon EOS 40D - 10.1 megapixel sensor, 6.5 fps continuous shooting,3 inch LCD screen, upgraded dust and weather resistant construction, ISO 3200 mode and DIGIC III processor.
Nikon D300 - 12.3 megapixel sensor, 6fps continuous shooting, 51 point autofocus system, 3 inch VGA LCD screen with Live View, self-cleaning sensor unit, expandable ISO settings from 200-3200, and new EXPEED image processing system.
Panasonic DMC-L10 - 10.1 megapixel sensor, unique 2.5 inch free angle LCD screen complete with full time live view, Face Detection, Intelligent ISO Control, nine film modes which replicate analog film styles, and Supersonic Wave Filter system.
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).
Olympus E-3 - Not too much is known about this DSLR, due in November - even its name has only recently been revealed!

Remember, you’re only allowed to pick one of the above, but you can give as many reasons as you like for your choice. Try and ignore the slightly different price points that each camera is positioned at, and decide which model you would most like to have in your camera bag.

ACDSee Pro 2

ACDSee Pro 2 features next-generation workflow management and RAW processing functionality. The upgrade was developed with input from more than 2,500 photographers worldwide. “The ability to work directly with our customers has allowed us to develop a product release that will bring unprecedented efficiency to the photographic community, freeing them to focus on what they do best—producing quality images.” said Mark Franklin, executive vice president of ACD Systems. ACDSee Pro 2 is available now for $129.99. Current ACDSee customers are eligible for a 30-percent customer discount.

Capture One 4 Beta

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.

Owners of Nikon DSLRs Most Satisfied

A study by J.D. Power and Associates has revealed that Nikon owners are the most satisfied DSLR customers around. With a an index score of 822 out of 1000, the Nikon D Series leads the DSLR segment, receiving notably high ratings from customers. The Fujifilm Finepix F series ranks highest in the point and shoot segment, Canon PowerShot SD series in premium point and shoot cameras, and Casio Exilim Zoom in the ultra slim segment. The study also found that DSLR camera owners take more than twice the amount of pictures per month than do owners in any other segment.

Wolverine ESP 250Gb PMP

The Wolverine ESP portable multimedia player with a storage capacity of 250GB is now shipping. The Wolverine ESP 250Gb features a 3.6-inch TFT LCD display and the ability to store and view 125,000 digital photos. Support for RAW files from many cameras is also offered. The Wolverine ESP 250Gb can be purchased online and at leading retailers for an estimated street price of less than $650.

Amazon Leaks Canon 40D, Canon 1Ds Mark III, 18-55mm Lens, 14mm Lens

No less than Amazon.com have leaked the US specifications, price and availability of the much-rumoured Canon 40D and Canon 1Ds Mark III DSLR cameras. Available on September 10th for $1,299, the Canon EOS 40D has a 10 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen, 6.5 fps continuous shooting, new sRAW mode, 35-zone metering system and integrated Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit. New accessories for the 40D include a revised BG-E2N battery grip and WFT-E3A wireless transmitter. A new lens - the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM - has also been listed by Amazon, available November 15th for $199.99.

Meanwhile the professional Canon 1Ds Mark III will cost $7,999 and be available on December 10th. It’s headline features are a 21.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 3 inch LCD display with Live View, 5 fps at shutter speeds 1/500 second or faster, sRAW mode, 45-point AF and integrated Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit. Also mentioned on the Amazon page is a new Canon EF 14mm f2.8L II USM Lens, providing a a 114-degree diagonal angle of view on the Canon 1Ds Mark III.

Of course, none of this is official yet, even though it comes from one of the world’s biggest online retailers, but you probably won’t have to wait too long for Canon to make their announcement…

Website: Amazon.com - Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III

Website: Amazon.com - Canon EOS 40D

Website: Amazon.com - Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM SLR Lens

Win a Holiday to New Zealand!

The New Zealand Tourism Board are running a competition with the main prize of a 10 day, £5000 holiday for two to New Zealand. Ten Canon cameras are also up for grabs. You just need to interpret New Zealand’s urban soul via photos, videos or words. The deadline for entry is 5pm, Tuesday July 31st 2007.

Free Canon Workshops at American National Parks

Canon are holding a free photography workshop program throughout the summer in Yosemite, Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Parks. Canon is guided by the philosophy of Kyosei – ‘all people regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living together and working into the future.’  Through our involvement in the parks, we hope to strengthen Canon’s commitment to conservation.” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager of the Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. In addition, the the Canon Photography in the Parks Photo Contest returns, with Canon products and a trip to the participating park of their choice up for grabs.

Idruna Remote Editing System

The Idruna Remote Editing System (IRES) allows an editor to see what a photographer is shooting, in real time, even if the photographer is on the other side of the world. IRES works even over mobile phone networks or satellite modems, as only thumbnails are transmitted over the web. Idruna’s Remote Editing System is available now priced at $199 for the Windows version, or from $389 as part of Pocket Phojo 5.0 for Windows Mobile.

Student of the Year Winner

Yoshi Kono is the winner of Ilford Photo’s Student of the Year competition. Kono won a medium format Mamiya 711 camera kit, £350 plus £250 of Ilford Photo products. “In the end, it was decided that the raw edge displayed by Yoshi Kono’s street photography work just took it that degree further, and merited the overall prize” commented Ilford Photo marketing director Howard Hopwood.

ASMP Arnold Newman Prize

Chris Buck is the winner of the first annual ASMP Arnold Newman Prize, awarded each year to recognize work that is grounded in the traditions and values of Arnold Newman’s portrait photography. This year’s prize includes $2,500 cash donated by Getty and a Canon EOS 30D camera.

Transcend 8GB 266X Ultra-Speed CompactFlash

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€.

Canon S5 IS

The new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor. The Canon S5 replaces the S3 model, adding face detection technology, flash hot shoe compatible with some Canon EX Speedlite external flashes, and an increased sensitivity range of ISO 80-1600. The Canon S5 IS will be available from early June, priced at £409 / €601 RRP inc. VAT.

ACDSee Pro 2.0 Beta

You can now test-drive a Beta version of ACDSee Pro 2.0, which is scheduled for release in the Autumn. ACDSee Pro 2.0 Beta is compatible with Windows Vista and is available free for download at http://www.acdseepro.com . “Our software development starts and ends with the needs of today’s photographers,” said Mark Franklin, executive vice president of ACD Systems. “It’s very important to us to invite feedback at this crucial stage, especially as an increasing number of photographers demand a high level of control in RAW processing.” Beta testers and users of the previous version will receive a 30 percent discount.

Computeractive Photographer of the Year 2007

A share of £1,500 worth of Canon photography kit is on offer to the winners of the Computeractive Photographer of the Year 2007 competition. Top prize is the latest Canon EOS 400D digital camera kit. The deadline for entries is 5.00 pm on Friday 11 May, and the contest is open to UK residents.

Extensis Portfolio Raw Filter 3.2 Update

Extensis have released an update for Portfolio 8.1. The Portfolio Raw Filter 3.2 update adds support for 32 cameras, bringing the total to more than 100. The Portfolio Raw Filter is powered by technology from Bibble Labs and the update is free of charge for registered Portfolio 8.1 users.

Focus 2007 - Nikon P5000, S50c, L12, L11

Nikon were one of the few major camera manufacturer’s exhibiting at Focus (Canon, Samsung, Pentax, Casio, Kodak, Olympus, Sony and Panasonic were all notable by their absence). Consequently it was difficult to actually get to the Nikon stand, as people crowded round watching and waiting for the free seminar series. Nikon announced their new Coolpix range nearly a week ago and only had a few prototype samples on show, including the P5000 performance model, which looked nice and was a lot smaller than I’d expected.

Adobe Camera Raw 3.7

Adobe have released Camera Raw 3.7 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the Nikon D40 and Pentax K10D DSLR cameras has been added in this update.

Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.7 (Windows)

Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.7 (MAC)

Panasonic DMC-L1 Review at CNET

CNET have published their review of the new Panasonic DMC-L1 DSLR camera.

“If Panasonic is really serious about building digital SLRs, it’s going to have to invest heavily in effective noise reduction and start paying attention to the ergonomics of its body designs. Plus, it’d be nice of the company to realize that, while a nice kit lens is certainly welcomed, it also need to sell its bodies without a lens. If you’ve got a budget between $1,500 and $2,000 to spend on a digital SLR, you’d be much better served buying a Nikon D80, a Sony Alpha DSLR-A100K, or a Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi than this Lumix. Plus, you’d still have plenty of cash left over for an extra lens or a flash unit.”

Website: CNET - Panasonic DMC-L1 Review

Latest Prices / User Reviews

ACDSee Pro Photo Manager RAW Update Beta

ACD Systems Press Release

ACDSee Pro Photo Manager Gives Professional Photographers Total Control Over Their Workflow with public beta RAW Format Support.

Victoria, British Columbia – November 2, 2006 – ACD Systems International Inc. (TSX: ASA), today announced a public beta software release which updates ACDSee® Pro Photo Manager, adding support for the newest RAW formats. Developed specifically for the professional photographer, ACDSee Pro will be showcased from November 2-4 at PhotoPlus Expo, Booth #1212, in New York. ACDSee Pro delivers advanced functionality designed to streamline the workflow of professional photographers, while incorporating the speed and organizing capabilities synonymous with ACDSee software solutions. “Once again, our commitment to working closely with professional photographers yields support for the newest digital cameras”, said Doug Vandekerkhove, CEO of ACD Systems.

Quantum Instruments at PhotoPlus 2006

Quantum Instruments Press Release

PhotoPlus Expo 2006 - Quantum Instruments Inc., of Hauppauge, New York, is introducing three major new products, as well as numerous new accessories and upgrades. This marks the largest one-time line expansion in the company’s history and reinforces its role as an essential supplier of professional photographic instruments:

NEW Qnexus-When mounted to Quantum’s new-generation Qflash 5d-R flash units, this ingenious receiver/decoder “reads” wireless TTL signals directly from Canon and Nikon shoe mount master flashes. It integrates multiple high-power Qflash 5d-R’s into Canon or Nikon wireless TTL systems where they act as dedicated, full-function remotes controlled totally from the camera’s flash menu. Qnexus supports all Canon and Nikon wireless flash functions including Manual, Automatic, TTL and TTL-Ratio.

Gary's Parries 24/09/06

This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:

1. Comparing Apples And Windows
2. When 4 x 6 Is Really 3.98 x 6
3. Camera Bug Not Covered By Warranty

Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, as well as a recording studio owner/operator, inventor, and now, a digital camera enthusiast, GARY has more digital camera knowledge in his entire brain than most people have in their little finger. In the unlikely event that GARY would not know the answer to your question, he will answer it anyway, true to the spirit of the word “Parries”, a fencing term which, in this context, implies “cleverly evasive answers”. So let your imagination run wild. Email all your nagging digital camera questions to: [email protected] , and then, En Garde!

You may also attach to your email an ORIGINAL PHOTO of your choosing. A preview of the photo will be displayed with your question, and a full-sized version will be just a click away. No personal information will be published with your question unless you specifically include it in the text or attached photo of your email, which may be further edited for grammar, content, or other reasons.

Free Updates for Portfolio 8

Extensis Press Release

PORTLAND, Ore. — September 21, 2006 — Extensis, a division of Celartem Inc., today released free updates to Portfolio 8 –– the leading Digital Asset Management (DAM) solution for creative professionals. The updates bring improved stability and performance,
updated Raw camera support, added InDesign CS2 support, and a QuarkXPress 7 Drag-and-Drop support filter for Mac users. Registered owners of Portfolio 8 are eligible to receive the free upgrades immediately through the Extensis website at http://www.extensis.com/portfolio .

Gary's Parries 03/09/06

This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:

1. WANTED: Splashproof 28mm 7x Zoom Ultra-Compact
2. Histogram 101
3. Waiting For Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 Review
4. Telecaster Or Stratocaster

Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, as well as a recording studio owner/operator, inventor, and now, a digital camera enthusiast, GARY has more digital camera knowledge in his entire brain than most people have in their little finger. In the unlikely event that GARY would not know the answer to your question, he will answer it anyway, true to the spirit of the word “Parries”, a fencing term which, in this context, implies “cleverly evasive answers”. So let your imagination run wild. Email all your nagging digital camera questions to: [email protected] , and then, En Garde!

You may also attach to your email an ORIGINAL PHOTO of your choosing. A preview of the photo will be displayed with your question, and a full-sized version will be just a click away. No personal information will be published with your question unless you specifically include it in the text or attached photo of your email, which may be further edited for grammar, content, or other reasons.

ACDSee 8 and ACDSee Pro Photo Manager Updated

ACD Systems Press Release

ACD Systems Updates ACDSee 8 and ACDSee Pro Photo Manager - Company renews commitment to customers with added RAW support and feature improvements

VICTORIA, British Columbia – April. 27, 2006 – ACD Systems International Inc. (TSX: ASA), today announced updates to its two flagship products, ACDSee 8 Photo Manager and ACDSee Pro Photo Manager. The enhancements are designed to improve speed, performance and productivity, and include advanced support for RAW formats that meet and exceed industry demands. “In our continued commitment to our customers, these updates allow them to take full advantage of the powerful capabilities that the RAW format offers,” said James Latham, vice president of marketing for ACD Systems. “Professional photographers depend on the latest RAW format support and feature improvements, while photo enthusiasts are just beginning to discover this format. These releases underscore our commitment to delivering the very best in product integrity and flexibility, and providing feature improvements that make the user experience and workflow both smoother and more enjoyable.”

Extensis Portfolio 8 Update

Extensis Press Release

Free update includes added RAW camera and MS Office support for digital asset management needs. 

PORTLAND, Ore. — April, 12th, 2006 — Extensis, a division of Celartem Inc., today released two free updates to Portfolio 8 – the leading Digital Asset Management (DAM) solution for creative professionals. These updates include two file format support filters, which add support for Microsoft Office allowing users to catalog, find and view files from Microsoft Word and Excel on the Windows platform. Additionally, Extensis has added support for 22 new camera Raw formats on both Mac and Windows versions of Portfolio. Registered owners of Portfolio 8 are eligible to receive the free upgrades immediately through the Extensis website at http://www.extensis.com/portfolio. “These free updates demonstrate Extensis’ commitment to supporting the file formats that matter most to our customers,” said Dan Harlacher, Extensis Portfolio product manager. “We added MS Office support and updated the Portfolio Raw Filter so that our customers can more effectively utilize Portfolio in their daily workflow from cataloging to finding to viewing the files and images that are most critical in their day-to-day business.”

FixerLabs LensFIT Update

FixerLabs Press Release

FixerLabs, developers of the award winning SizeFixer and FocusFixer software for digital image enhancement, have today released an update to their patented LensFIT technology to increase the range of supported cameras. Over 150 of the very latest models have been added to extend the range of cameras that can benefit from our unique Deconvolution and Super-Resolution technology. Examples of new supported cameras include:

• Canon – EOS 5D and EOS 30D
• Nikon – D50 and D200
• Panasonic – Lumix DMC LC1 and Lumix DMC LX1
• Olympus – E-330 and E-500
• Fuji – FinePix S9000Z and S9500Z

Canon Digital IXUS 65 and Canon Digital IXUS 60

PMA 2006: The Canon Digital IXUS 65 and Canon Digital IXUS 60 are announced today. 6 megapixels, 3x zoom lens, ISO 800, Widescreen (16:9) mode, 3 inch and 2.5 inch LCD respectively. The Digital IXUS 60 will be available from March 2006 and Digital IXUS 65 from April 2006, priced at £299.00 / €449.99 and £349.00 / €519.99 respectively.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon builds on design pedigree with two new Digital IXUS models; the Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65 (called the PowerShot SD600 Digital ELPH and PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH in the USA).

Canon is pleased to announce the launch of two new jewels in the Digital IXUS crown – the Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65. The two cameras continue the IXUS tradition of fusing cutting-edge technologies and superb build quality with compelling camera design. Featuring a high resolution 2.5” LCD screen, the steel-bodied Digital IXUS 60 draws on original IXUS designer Yasushi Shiotani’s ‘box and circle’ concept to achieve a look of classic elegance. The innovative Digital IXUS 65 sports a massive 3.0” LCD, unique Touch Control Dial and a two-tone finish in brushed silver and ebony black. The Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65 sit above the Digital IXUS 55 in the IXUS range and will appeal to style-conscious consumers seeking large displays, advanced functionality and great image quality in a compact and elegant camera. “These new additions to the Digital IXUS range exemplify everything IXUS stands for – leading design, innovative technologies and outstanding performance,” said Mogens Jensen Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe.

Canon PowerShot S3 IS

PMA 2006: The Canon PowerShot S3 IS is announced today. 6 megapixels, image stabilized 12x zoom lens, ISO 800, 2 inch LCD. The Canon PowerShot S3 IS will be available from early May 2006, priced at £449.00 / €649.99.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon launches new PowerShot S3 IS; improved monster zoom compact

Canon is pleased to announce the launch of the 12x optical zoom PowerShot S3 IS. Successor to the popular PowerShot S2 IS, the latest addition to the PowerShot S-series incorporates a 6.0 Megapixel CCD sensor, Canon’s renowned optical Image Stabiliser technology and video functionality rivalling that of dedicated digital video camcorders. Sporting a striking new finish in gunmetal grey, the compact PowerShot S3 IS answers the demands of advanced photographers with several improvements over its predecessor, including an increased sensitivity range of ISO 80 to ISO 800, a larger 2.0” vari-angle LCD screen, widescreen (16:9) recording, new movie features and an additional Sports mode. The PowerShot S3 IS caters for serious photo enthusiasts seeking extended zooming flexibility and fully featured movie recording in a versatile compact digital stills camera.

Digital Foci Picture Porter Elite

Digital Foci Press Release

Digital Photo Album with Large 3.6” LCD Securely Saves Photos on the Road in its 40GB & 80GB Portable Hard Drives - Compatible to Print Photos without a Computer - Records Voice & Video

February 7, 2006 – Orlando, Florida – Digital Foci announced today that it will be introducing at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Conference Picture Porter Elite portable digital photo album with 40GB and 80GB hard drives and a memory card reader.  Featuring a large 3.6” LCD for easy viewing, Picture Porter Elite lets you instantly and securely save and view digital photos and video on its hard drive wherever you go, so you can keep snapping away and stop worrying about limited memory card space on your digital camera.

Olympus SP-500UZ Review at DPReview

DPReview have reviewed the Olympus SP-500UZ digital camera, which has a 10x optical zoom lens equivalent to 38-380mm, 6 megapixels, 2.5 inch LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder.

”...the feature set is impressive, but (aside, perhaps from RAW capture) there’s nothing here that jumps out and says ‘buy me instead of a Panasonic / Canon / Sony’. The extra megapixel over most of its direct competitors makes little - if any - difference to the quality of results, and although noise is fairly well controlled, the images are pretty soft and the number of shots lost to camera shake or focus errors (at the long end of the zoom) is high.”

Website: DPReview - Olympus SP-500UZ Review

Latest Prices / User Reviews

Olympus E-500 Review at CNET

CNET have reviewed the Olympus E-500, an 8 megapixel DSLR with a 2.5 inch LCD screen in a body with a classic penta-prism design.

“A well-designed compact 8-megapixel digital SLR camera, the Olympus Evolt E-500 offers a notably broad set of features for its class, including Olympus’s signature dust-reduction system. Every time you turn on the E-500, its supersonic wave filter vibrates 35,000 times per second to shimmy dust off the CCD. With more fine-tuning tools than you might expect for the price, not to mention compatibility with Olympus’s sharp Zuiko Digital lenses, this affordable model offers an appealing alternative to competitors such as the Nikon D50, the Canon EOS Rebel XT, and the Pentax *ist DL.”

Website: CNET - Olympus E-500 Review

Latest Prices / User Reviews

Adobe Camera Raw 3.3

Adobe have officially released Camera Raw 3.3 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the following cameras has been added in this update.

Canon EOS 5D, Canon EOS 1D Mark II N, Canon EOS 20Da
Kodak EasyShare P850, Kodak EasyShare P880
Fujifilm FinePix E900, Fujifilm FinePix S5200/5600, Fujifilm FinePix S9000/9500
Mamiya ZD
Nikon D200
Olympus E-500, Olympus SP-310, Olympus SP-350, Olympus SP-500UZ
Pentax *ist DL, Pentax *ist DS2
Sony DSC-R1

Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 (Windows)

Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 (Mac)

Bibble 4.5 RAW Software

Bibble Labs Press Release

Bibble Labs releases holiday 4.5 update with support for the Nikon D200 - Includes major improvement to Canon .CR2 Color.

Austin Texas (December 23rd, 2005) - Bibble Labs today announced availability of version 4.5 of its popular Raw Workflow software. Now supporting close to 70 of the most popular DSLR and prosumer cameras, this update includes support for the eagerly anticipated Nikon D200, as well as the Olympus EVolt E-500, SP310, SP350, Sp500UZ, Pentax *ist DS2 and Sony DSC-R1. Using Bibble’s integrated Photoshop plug-in, users of older versions of Photoshop including 7.0 and CS and Photoshop Elements 2.0 can now open raw images from the latest cameras without having to pay for a costly upgrade.

DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition

DxO Labs Press Release

DxO Labs puts its award-winning DxO Optics Pro technology in the hands of high-end digicam users.

Paris, France, December 20, 2005 – DxO Labs announces today that DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition is on sale via the company’s e-store (http://store.dxo.com). DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition will be available through selected retailers starting late in January 2006.

Specifically designed for advanced digicams, also known as “ZLR”, “SuperZoom” or “Bridge” cameras, DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition supports digital cameras including: Sony DSC-H1, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1, Canon PowerShot Pro S2 IS, Kodak P850, Olympus SP-500, Nikon Coolpix 8800, Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6, Panasonic DMC-FZ30, Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2, Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200, and Sony F-828. More camera support will be added in the future.

Transcend 8GB 120X CompactFlash Card

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.

Capture One 3.7.3

Phase One Press Release

Capture One 3.7.3 has been released on December 12, 2005.

Amongst the highlights in this release are:

Support for new cameras
The DB and PRO versions of Capture One will include support for the brand new Phase One Digital Backs P 30 and P 45, featuring 31 and 39 mega pixels respectively.

The PRO and LE versions of Capture One will now also support the cameras listed below:
•      Canon EOS 5D
•      Canon EOS-1D Mark II N
•      Konica Minolta Alpha / Dynax / Maxxum 5D
•      Olympus E-500 EVOLT
•      Leica Digital Module R for R8 and R9 cameras
•      Beta support for Nikon D200 pre-production models

Olympus SP-500UZ Review at DesignTechnica

DesignTechnica have reviewed the Olympus SP-500UZ digital camera, which has a 10x optical zoom lens equivalent to 38-380mm, 6 megapixels, 2.5 inch LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder.

“The 10x Olympus SP-500UZ is in the thick of a tough fight with Canon, Kodak, Konica-Minolta and Sony, all battling for photographers who want powerful zooms that are great for all-around use, especially vacations. It has some good things going for it and some negatives. Most you can live with but I had a tough time dealing with the uneven focusing.”

Website: DesignTechnica - Olympus SP-500UZ Review

Latest Prices / User Reviews

Four Innovations 2006 Design and Engineering Awards for Kodak

Kodak Press Release

KODAK EASYSHARE Products Win Four Prestigious Innovations 2006 Design and Engineering Awards; Honor Includes ``Best of Innovations’’ Awards for the EASYSHARE-ONE WiFi Digital Camera and the EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500

NEW YORK—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Nov. 16, 2005—Kodak innovation was spotlighted last evening at the International Consumer Electronics Show Press Preview, where the company’s digital products and services won four prestigious Innovations 2006 Design and Engineering Awards. The groundbreaking KODAK EASYSHARE-ONE zoom digital camera and the EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500 were named “Best of Innovations 2006” award winners for the digital imaging and digital imaging accessories categories, respectively, while the KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery Premier Service and EASYSHARE V550 zoom digital camera garnered Innovations 2006 Design and Engineering honors.

Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 Beta Released

A new Beta version of Adobe Camera Raw has been released by Adobe for both Windows and MAC platforms.

Support for the following cameras has been added in this update.

• Canon EOS 5D
• Canon EOS 1D Mark II N
• Olympus E-500
• Olympus SP-310
• Olympus SP-350
• Olympus SP-500UZ
• Pentax *ist DL
• Pentax *ist DS2
• Sony DSC-R1

Website: Adobe Camera RAW 3.3 (Windows)

Website: Adobe Camera RAW 3.3 (MAC)

Sigma 170-500mm F5-6.3 APO DG Lens Announced

The Sigma 170-500mm F5-6.3 APO DG lens is introduced. The Sigma 170-500mm lens features a new multi-layer lens coating and lens design to reduce flare and ghosting. will cost £629.99 and be available in Sigma AF, Canon AF, Nikon AF, Pentax AF and Konica Minolta AF fittings.

Sigma UK Press Release

An ultra-telephoto zoom up to 500mm producing high performance with digital or film SLR cameras.

- The new multi-layer lens coating and lens design reduces flare and ghosting.
- Aspherical lenses and SLD glass provide correction for all types of aberration throughout the entire zoom range.
- Rear focus system ensures fast auto focus.

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 170-500mm F5-6.3 DG lens. This compact ultra telephoto zoom lens covers a useful range up to 500mm.

Olympus E-500 Review at DCResource

DCResource have reviewed the Olympus E-500, an 8 megapixel DSLR with a 2.5 inch LCD screen in a body with a classic penta-prism design.

“Camera performance was excellent in nearly all areas. The camera focuses quickly, there’s minimal shutter lag, and shot-to-shot and playback delays are minimal. In low light situations you’ll want to pop up the flash, as it greatly aids in focusing. The only areas in which the E-500 falls short are startup time and continuous shooting. As I mentioned, the slightly long startup time is the trade-off for having a dust-free CCD—which I think most people won’t have a problem with. The continuous shooting mode limits you to four or five shots in row before the buffer is full—the Canon Rebel XT and Nikon D50 both perform better in this area.”

Website: DCResource - Olympus E-500 Review

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DSLR eBook Series Expands

Digital Secrets Press Release

Drawing on the twin facts that every camera model is unique and every photographer has his or her individual levels of expertise, the DSLR series of premium eBooks is growing. Professionals and advanced enthusiast photographers will appreciate the depth and sharply focused insights these eBooks bring. All of the titles are the modern outgrowth of the most highly acclaimed camera eBooks in all of digital photography.

Authors iNova and Steinmueller introduce the fourth in the DSLR eBook shelf of interactive digital photography titles, completing the series on the Canon affordable digital single lens reflex cameras. The eBook series is read on both Windows and Macintosh computers with equal ease. Although each title concentrates on the unique features of a specific model of camera, the whole eBook covers the science, technology, art and creative aspects of digital photography as applied to that particular camera. Interactive features achieve demonstration, illustration and hyperlink functions from elements embedded right in the text and images.

You can learn more about all of these eBooks while saving $6.50 on all forms of shipping (making US delivery free) here: DSLR eBooks

Canon Digital IXUS WIRELESS Announced

The Canon Digital IXUS WIRELESS is announced today. The Canon IXUS WIRELESS features automatic wireless image transfer, wireless control of camera shooting functions from a PC and ships with a wireless print adapter. A 5 megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom lens, 2 inch LCD display and 14 shooting modes complete the specification. The Digital IXUS WIRELESS will be available from January 2006 for £399.00 / €599.99 RRP inc. VAT.

Canon UK Press Release

When Canon launched its first IXUS camera the result was instantaneous; the name became synonymous with style, elegance and class leading technology. Now, Canon strengthens IXUS’ iconic status with the launch of its first wireless enabled digital compact camera – the Digital IXUS WIRELESS.

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of its first wireless digital compact camera, the Digital IXUS WIRELESS. Bringing IXUS style and performance to the wireless age, the camera’s Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11b) support offers users a new level of flexibility and convenience in digital photography. The Digital IXUS WIRELESS supports several innovative features, including automatic wireless image transfer and wireless control of camera shooting functions from a PC. It comes supplied with the Wireless Printer Adapter (WA-1E)  for out-of-the-box wireless direct printing to PictBridge compatible printer.

ACDSee Pro Photo Manager Announced

ACD Systems Press Release

ACD Systems International Inc.: ACDSee Pro Photo Manager Streamlines Professional Photography Workflow

VICTORIA, British Columbia—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Oct. 17, 2005—New software that helps professional photographers confidently manage their photos to be unveiled at Booth #801 during PhotoPlus Expo

ACD Systems International Inc. (TSX:ASA), today announced ACDSee(TM) Pro Photo Manager, the advanced version of its award-winning ACDSee photo management software. Developed specifically for the professional photographer, ACDSee Pro will be showcased from October 20-22 at PhotoPlus Expo in New York. ACDSee Pro delivers advanced functionality designed to streamline the workflow of professional photographers, while incorporating the viewing speed and organizing capabilities synonymous with ACDSee products.

ACDSee Pro is a single platform where professional photographers can view, process, edit, organize, catalog, publish and archive their growing digital photo collections. Key features include advanced workflow functionality, support for DNG (Digital Negative Specification) and the latest RAW formats, RAW processing capability, batch IPTC editing, powerful color management functionality and professional publishing options.

DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition Announced

DxO Labs Press Release

DXO LABS ANNOUNCES DXO OPTICS PRO STARTER EDITION FOR HIGH-END DIGITAL CAMERAS

DxO Labs brings award-winning DxO Optics Pro technology to advanced digicam users at an irresistible price

New York, NY, USA, October 4, 2005 – DxO Labs announced today DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition, a new version of its flagship application specifically designed for advanced digicams – cameras also sometimes referred to as “ZLR”, “SuperZoom” or “Bridge” cameras.

Based on the award-winning image enhancement technology acclaimed by Digital SLR users, this new addition to the DxO Optics Pro family will support advanced digital cameras such as: Sony DSC-H1, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1, Canon PowerShot Pro S2 IS, Kodak P880, Olympus SP-500, Fuji Fine Pix S9500, Nikon Coolpix 8800, Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6, Panasonic DMC-FZ30, Samsung Digimax Pro815, Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2, Sony F-828, and others.

3 New Kodak Printers Announced

The KODAK EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500, KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Plus Series 3 and KODAK EASYSHARE Photo Printer 300 are all announced today.

Kodak Press Release

Kodak Sets a New Pace for Home Picture Printing; Unveils Innovative, Universal Photo Printers and Advanced Printer Dock

Latest Additions to Best-Selling Snapshot Printer Lineup Extend Kodak’s Leadership in Wireless Capability, Display Size, and Automatic Picture Enhancement; Now Make Real KODAK Pictures at Home from Nearly Any Digital Camera for Just 29 Cents Each

ROCHESTER, N.Y., September 2 — Building on its highly successful line of EASYSHARE printer docks, Eastman Kodak Company today significantly grew its at-home printing presence by introducing three innovative products, including universal models that make real KODAK pictures from nearly any digital camera for as little as 29 cents per print. Kodak already has the best-selling snapshot printers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, which collectively account for nearly 75 percent of the world’s snapshot printer volume.

DxO Optics Pro Supports Canon EOS 5D

DxO Labs Press Release

DXO OPTICS PRO V3.0 SOFTWARE TO SUPPORT NEW FULL-FRAME CANON DIGITAL SLR

Photographers worldwide to benefit from DxO Labs’  image enhancement technologies with the new Canon EOS 5D, Canon EOS-1D Mark II N and new Canon lenses

Paris, France, August 22, 2005 – DxO Labs announced today that DxO Optics Pro v3.0 Digital SLR and lens automatic image quality enhancement software will soon support Canon’s new Digital SLRs and lenses. DxO Optics Pro v3.0 incorporates revolutionary optics, noise and exposure corrections in an all-new, easy-to-use, feature-rich application for both Mac and PC users.

“DxO Optics Pro has always been about allowing Digital SLRs and their compatible lenses to automatically achieve peak performance – beyond what is possible with the hardware alone. We are very excited by Canon’s announcements today and in particular by the new full-frame Canon EOS 5D. We plan to support these major products from Canon in the weeks following their availability,” stated Luc Marin, vice president of the Photography Business Unit at DxO Labs.

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens Announced

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is announced. The Canon 70-300mm lens features Canon’s latest 3-stop Image Stabilisation system and replaces the existing EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens. The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens will be available from October 2005 priced £469.00 RRP inc VAT/ €679.99 RRP inc VAT.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon’s new telephoto zoom lens with Image Stabiliser – the EF70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the EF70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM zoom lens. Featuring the latest 3-stop Image Stabiliser (IS) for outstanding camera shake reduction, the lens is also equipped with super responsive auto focus. Replacing the popular EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM, the world’s first interchangeable lens with IS, the lens is expected to appeal to serious amateur nature and sports photographers looking to achieve outstanding results while shooting hand held.

26 Million Cameras Sold in North America in 2005

InfoTrends/CAP Ventures Press Release

Digital Camera Shipments to Set New Record in 2005, According to InfoTrends/CAP Ventures Report

(Weymouth, MA) July, 14 2005… The North American digital camera market hit another high point in terms of unit shipments for 2004, growing 27% over 2003 to reach 22.2 million cameras shipped. The market is expected to grow once again to reach 26 million cameras in 2005, but at a slower pace of 16%. The market will peak in 2006 when it reaches just under 28 million cameras, and will begin to decline thereafter.

Extensis Announces Updates for Portfolio 7

Extensis Press Release

Free update includes added RAW camera support, plus Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger and Adobe Creative Suite 2 compatibility.

Wednesday 6th July, 2005 — Extensis, a division of Celartem, Inc., today released a free update to Portfolio 7 – the leading Digital Asset Management (DAM) solution for creative professionals – for both Macintosh and Windows platforms. Portfolio 7.0.6 provides compatibility updates for Adobe’s Creative Suite 2 and Apple’s Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger). Additionally, Extensis has added support for 14 new camera formats on both Mac and Windows versions of Portfolio. Registered owners of Portfolio 7 are eligible to receive the free upgrades immediately through the Extensis website at http://www.extensis.com/portfolio

Sigma 50-500mm F4-6.3 EX DG HSM Lens Announced

Sigma 50-500mm F4-6.3 EX DG HSM lens is announced today. The Sigma 50-500mm lens is optimized for digital SLR cameras and has a new lens coating to help reduce flare and ghosting. Available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon-D fittings (Pentax and Konica/Minolta tba), the Sigma 50-500mm lens will cost £899.99.

Sigma UK Press Release

50-500mm F4-6.3 EX DG/HSM

High Magnification Ultra Telephoto Zoom Lens, with a 10x zoom ratio from 50mm to 500mm, optimized for digital SLR cameras.

l Most effective coating for minimizing flare and ghost with digital SLR cameras.
l Triple-cam Rear Focusing System ensures high precision throughout the whole focus range.
l Uses four SLD (the special low dispersion) glass elements for superior optical performance.
l Accepts both 1.4X and 2X APO EX Tele-Converters, the lens can be used as a 1000mm ultra-telephoto zoom lens.

Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 50-500 F4-6.3 EX DG/HSM lens.

Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT Review at e-fotografija

DIWA member e-fotografija have published their review of the new 8 megapixel Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT DSLR.

“The EOS 350D is a camera that is a pleasure to use for hobby photographers. Unfortunately there is still no DSLR camera under 500EUR, I expect that to happen by the end of this year, so there’s no cheap alternative to upgrade to a higher class. Here’s something to remember. If you are an advanced photographer and shoot a lot of photos, the EOS 350D can only be a camera to step into the digital world or a back-up camera. Don’t think that the EOS 350D, despite many improvements over the EOS 300D, is in the same range as is the EOS 20D. The EOS 350D is much clumsier. Focusing, metering and speed of workflow are much better on the EOS 20D. It is just the same as is with film cameras.”

Website: e-fotografija - Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT Review

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Canon PowerShot S2 IS Announced

Canon PowerShot S2 IS is announced today. The Canon PowerShot S2 IS is a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 12x optical zoom equivalent to 36–432mm on a 35mm camera. The Canon S2 IS uses the same DIGIC II processor found in Canon’s DLSR cameras and also incorporates optical Image Stabiliser technology. The S2 IS can shoot continually and uninterrupted at 2.4 fps until the memory card becomes full. The Canon PowerShot S2 IS will be available from early June 2005 for £469 RRP / €689 RRP.

Canon UK Press Release

PowerShot S2 IS: Canon’s new monster zoom compact

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the 12x optical zoom, 5.0 Megapixel PowerShot S2 IS. An exceptional blend of versatility with power, this worthy successor to the PowerShot S1 IS features optical Image Stabiliser technology, outstanding optics and 30 fps digital video camera quality extended video recording of up to 60 minutes¨ with stereo sound.

Powered by the same DIGIC II processor found in Canon’s pro-series D-SLR cameras, the S2 IS features super-responsive 2.4 fps shooting*, start up times and auto focus speeds almost twice as quick as that of its predecessor, 18 shooting modes and shutter speeds to 1/3200 of a second. The processor even makes it possible to capture a maximum resolution digital still whilst shooting video. As well as giving camera performance a real boost, DIGIC II also improves colour rendition and white balance accuracy, and speeds up playback review and scrolling. A USB 2.0 Hi-speed interface is provided for super quick image and video transfers.

Sigma 500mm F4.5 EX DG HSM Lens Announced

Sigma 500mm F4.5 EX DG HSM lens is announced. The 500mm F4.5 EX DG HSM is an ultra-telephoto lens that has been optimized for digital SLR cameras. By adding a teleconvertor, the Sigma 500mm F4.5 EX DG HSM lens can be used as a 700ｍm Ｆ6.3 MF ultra-telephoto lens with a 1.4X EX teleconverter, or as a 1000mm F9 MF ultra-telephoto lens with a 2X teleconverter. The Sigma 500mm F4.5 EX DG HSM lens costs £2999.99 and is available now.

Sigma UK Press Release

Fast maximum aperture telephoto lens optimized for digital SLR cameras.

l Most effective coating for minimizing flare and ghost.
l Two Extraordinary Low Dispersion (ELD) glass elements produce excellent image quality.
l Accepts both 1.4X and 2X APO EX Tele-Converters. The lens can be used as a 700mm MF or a 1000mm MF ultra-telephoto lens. 

Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 500 F4.5 APO EX DG HSM lens.

This ultra-telephoto lens has a fast maximum aperture, and also features a new super multi-layer coating, which optimizes the characteristics of digital SLR cameras.

Canon Digital Ixus 500 Review at DigiCamReview

DigiCamReview have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS range, the 5.0 megapixel Digital Ixus 500 (known as the Powershot S500 in North America), which was announced at the start of February 2004.

“he design is good, I especially like the zoom control. The camera is very small, and very pocketable; the camera is quite stylish as well. The 1.5” screen updates smoothly and has accurate colour making it easier to view and compose your pictures. The camera is easy to use, the menu system is fairly easy to use and there are is a good layout of buttons and controls. There is a good choice of features and options, such as 9-area focus, manual white balance, high-speed continous shooting with faslh - although there are no scene mode, and no live histogram. The camera speed is good, with a okay switch on time, okay focusing time, and okay shutter response - the speed can be increased by activating the quick shot mode.”

Website: DigiCamReview - Canon Digital Ixus 500 Review

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Canon Digital IXUS 700 Announced

Canon Digital IXUS 700 is introduced today; a 7.1 megapixel digital camera, the Canon IXUS 700 features a 3.0x optical zoom, large 2.0” LCD and high quality VGA video clips at 30fps. The IXUS 700 has a silky finish and distinctive curves, while rounded contours exaggerate an already slender body. The Canon Digital IXUS 700 8% lighter than the previous top-of-range Digital IXUS 500. The IXUS 700 will be available from late March 2005 for £399.

Canon UK Press Release

7 Megapixel Digital IXUS 700 flagship sets new standards in style

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the new flagship to the IXUS range, the 7.1 Megapixel Digital IXUS 700. With a host of new features and a unique ‘Perpetual Curve’ contoured design, the camera’s brushed stainless steel ‘titanium grey’ exterior continues the IXUS tradition of pushing compact camera design into new territories.

Sigma Announces EM-140 DG Electronic Macro Flash

Sigma announces the EM-140 DG electronic macro flash, fully dedicated with new TTL flash control systems of all popular camera manufacturers.

Sigma Press Release

ELECTRONIC FLASH MACRO EM-140 DG is designed to work with both AF 35mm film and Digital SLR cameras of all the popular manufactures. The EM-140 DG Flash is ideal for photographing subjects in fine detail when the shadowless mode is used and is extremely effective for scientific and medical applications. Dual flash tubes can fire simultaneously or separately. Using only one flashtube creates shadow, which can give a three-dimensional feeling to the subject. The flash features a guide number of 14 w/ISO 100.

Photo-i Completes Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Review

Photo-i have concluded their interactive review of the 16 megapixel Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLR.

“Would I buy one? Yes, without a second thought (I can explain to my wife later – a bunch of roses helps). It’s expensive and there is nothing else that competes with it on the market. It is absolutely superb. Just in case anyone is wondering why I put price as both a Pro and Con. The pro reason is that you would hate an Editor or Art director to turn up on an assignment and say I have one of those, the chances are they won’t at this price. The cons are, £5000 is a lot of money to spend on a camera without lens. But then again if I were a mini-cab driver I guess I wouldn’t bat an eye-lid at spending £10,000 to £15,000 on a new car (I’m glad I am not a cab driver really)”

Website: Photo-i - Canon 1D Mark II Review

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Photo-i Reviews Canon 1Ds Mark II

Photo-i have started an interactive review of the 16 megapixel Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLR.

“The Canon EOS 1Ds Mk II is a full frame 36 x 24mm (35mm film full frame) digital camera, with a 16.70 megapixel CMOS sensor. This will produce a 47.5mb file, a good selling point for professional users and the seriously rich hobbyist. For the editorial, stock and commercial photographer this may be the only camera a photographer will ever need. At just over £5000 it has to deliver a lot of quality, so does this camera live up to expectations? Read on and find out.”

Website: Photo-i - Canon 1D Mark II Review

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Canon USA Launches Connect And Score Rebate Promotion

Canon USA Press Release 01/11/04

COMPLETE THE PLAY FOR GREAT IMAGES WITH CANON’S CONNECT AND SCORE REBATE PROMOTION

Consumers Can Score A Visa Gift Card Worth Up To $100 In Value When They Purchase Select Canon Digital Cameras or Camcorders with the Select Photo Printer

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Nov. 1, 2004 - At the Super Bowl or high school playoffs, catching the photo of the game winning touchdown is a moment that deserves a fine print to share with friends and family. This football season consumers can connect their favorite Canon digital cameras or MiniDV camcorders to Canon’s popular photo printers, and score great photographs while qualifying for valuable rebates up to $100.

Canon, an official sponsor of the NFL is the only manufacturer that can supply a complete digital imaging solution that includes digital SLR, digital compact cameras, camcorders and photo printers. Canon is supporting this consumer promotion with an NFL themed advertising campaign that features five-second spots added to Canon’s existing television advertising as well as one-quarter page ads featuring the Connect and Score promotion.

ACDSee 7 Announced

ACD Systems Press Release 04/10/04

ACD Systems Announces Fastest Version of Flagship Photo Management Software with the Launch of ACDSee 7

VICTORIA, British Columbia - October 4, 2004 - ACD Systems International Inc. (TSX: ASA), makers of ACDSee photo management software and Canvas technical illustration software, announced today the release of ACDSee 7, the newest version of its flagship photo management software for photography enthusiasts, professionals and corporate users.  Renowned for its speed, ACDSee is used the world over as the leading choice for image viewing and management. New features in ACDSee 7 include a Device Synchronization function, a Context Sensitive Toolbar, advanced search capabilities, RAW format support, MPV and HighMAT support and an Image Comparison tool. ACDSee 7 is available as a standalone product or as part of the ACDSee 7 PowerPack suite.

ACDSee 7 allows users to control their camera’s memory card storage space with a device synchronization function that quickly and efficiently automates the downloading process of images and media.  Through an easy-to-use wizard, users can select which folders their images should automatically be saved to, as well as determine the amount of space that should always be available on a specific memory card.

Canon Produces 10 Millionth Digital IXUS

Canon UK Press Release 21/09/04

10 millionth Digital IXUS

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the global production of its 10 millionth Digital IXUS camera - otherwise known as IXY (Japan) and ELPH (America). The 10 millionth camera is expected to sell during October 2004.

Released in May 2000, the first Digital IXUS camera sold over 800,000 units world-wide and began a string of successes for Canon in the style-conscious digital compact camera market. The camera had a 2.1 Megapixel resolution and weighed 190g. By comparison, the latest Digital IXUS i5 has 5.0 Megapixels and weighs just 100g .

“We are delighted to achieve this important milestone,” said Malcolm Hills, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging in the UK and Ireland. “The continuing success of the Digital IXUS brand confirms the importance of meeting the demands of the quality-conscious customer who has an appreciation for aesthetic and an uncompromising approach to technology, style and design.”

Canon Wins CMOS Sensor Technology Award

Canon USA Press Release 12/08/04

CANON RECEIVES 2004 INSIGHT AWARD FOR MOST INNOVATIVE CMOS IMAGE SENSOR TECHNOLOGY

Canon EOS 10D Recognized as One of the First High-End Digital SLR Cameras To Take Advantage of the Innovative CMOS Technology

Lake Success, N.Y., August 12, 2004 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ), today announced that it has received Semiconductor Insights’s 2004 INSIGHT Award for Most Innovative CMOS Image Sensor Technology.

Semiconductor Insights (SI), the leader in technical and patent analyses of integrated circuits and structures, analyzes hundreds of devices each year from the world’s most innovative companies. Through its INSIGHT Awards program, SI recognizes devices or technologies that change the performance/cost equation of their respective segments with a new design or process innovation. For the awards program, SI tested the CMOS Image Sensor Technology built into the Canon EOS 10D, one of the first high-end SLRs to use a CMOS image sensor.

“Our analysis confirmed that Canon has achieved the sensitivity and shutter speed of a CCD technology in a low cost CMOS process. As well, Canon’s CMOS process delivers a distinct power advantage over competitive CCD plays,” said Lluis Paris, director of TECHinsights for Semiconductor Insights. “The result is an affordable and high quality SLR.”

Bytesector Reviews Canon Powershot S500

Bytesector have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.

“The ELPH series of cameras are all fairly small units that fit easily in any pocket when turned off. The power button is well recessed, so it is very unlikely that it will accidentally turn itself on. The matte silver finish looks good, but can be scratched if the camera is not taken care of. A case is highly recommended. The camera is easy to hold, and like all cameras, is made for right handed people. There are well placed grips for your hands, and controls are easy to reach, and manipulate.”

Website: Bytesector - Canon Powershot S500 Review

Canon Announces Mini DV 2.2 Megapixel Camcorders

Canon USA Press Release 08/06/04

CANON’S LATEST MINI DV 2.2-MEGAPIXEL CAMCORDERS MERGE ADVANCED PHOTO FEATURES AND SHARP VIDEO USING DV PHOTO PLUS TECHNOLOGY

LAKE SUCCESS, NY, June 8, 2004 - Whether capturing the fireworks at a July fourth celebration or the expression of a child eating ice cream, Canon’s new vertically designed Optura 500 and Optura 400 Mini DV 2.2-megapixel camcorders provide consumers with high quality video and photos in a compact and easy-to-use package. Incorporating Canon’s DV Photo Plus technology, these eye-catching camcorders are shorter and smaller than their predecessors, take advantage of Genuine Canon Optics and advanced photo features often found in Canon’s line of PowerShot and EOS digital cameras.

“Two-in-one camcorders have become increasingly popular as technology provides consumers with these options,” said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon USA, Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). “Canon’s technological innovations and ability to seamlessly marry these two functions results in breakthrough products like the new Optura 400 and Optura 500 Mini DV camcorders. This is just the beginning for Canon in this arena.”

HP Photosmart R707 vs Canon IXUS 500

The Danish website DigitalMagasinet have published a comparative test of the HP Photosmart R707 and the Canon IXUS 500 5 megapixel digital cameras.

Website: DigitalMagasinet - HP Photosmart R707 vs Canon IXUS 500

Tamron Adds New Di Lenses

Two new models introduced from May 2004

Following the successful launch of Tamron’s first Di (Digitally integrated) lenses last year, Tamron have recently announced a further two models:

SP AF 90mm f2.8 Macro 1:1 Di & SP AF 200-500mm f5.6-6.3 Di.SP AF90mm F2.8 Di MACRO 1:1
The existing Tamron 90mm Macro lens is world renowned for its outstanding optical performance as well as its lightweight and compact design. Tamron have redesigned this lens to feature Di - Digitally Integrated Design for use with film and digital SLR cameras.

The lens provides outstanding image quality when used with film or digital cameras. Unlike conventional lenses, designed to cope with internal diffused reflections of a mirror box and film surface, Di lenses offer new anti-reflection countermeasures that are essential in lenses designed for use with digital cameras. the 90mm Di features an improved coating technology that reduces the reflections that are likely to become a problem to the absolute minimum.

Imaging Resource Reviews Canon Powershot S500

Imaging Resource have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.

“The quality and versatility of the ELPH series has impressed me from the start, and the 5.0-megapixel S500 doesn’t disappoint. The camera’s tiny size makes it a travel worthy companion, and the range of features give the camera an edge over many point-and-shoot style digicams in the marketplace.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Canon Powershot S500 Review

CNET Reviews Canon Powershot S500

CNET have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.

“With the PowerShot S500, Canon brings its time-tested Digital Elph to the ranks of 5-megapixel, 3X-zoom digital cameras. This latest model has its older siblings’ sleek, pocket-size chassis and snapshooter ease of use, both of which we still like very much, but the previous Digital Elphs offered slightly better photo quality, and the competition has pulled ahead in terms of features and performance. As a result, the PowerShot S500 ends up being a decent but not outstanding snapshot camera.”

Website: CNET - Canon Powershot S500 Review

Photoxels Reviews Canon Powershot S500

Photoxels have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.

“The Canon PowerShot S500 Digital Elph is an ultra compact digital camera that gives consistently excellent quality images. It continues Canon’s successful line of Digital Elphs with a stylish, well-designed and solidly constructed take anywhere camera.

If you are a looking for a strictly point-and-shoot ultra compact digital camera with excellent image quality, then you should look seriously at the Canon PowerShot S500 Digital Elph.”

Website: Photoxels - Canon Powershot S500 Review

Steves Digicams Reviews Canon Powershot S500

Steves Digicams have also reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.

“The camera’s auto focus system is as robust as its image processing and is enhanced by a focus assist lamp that insures proper focus lock even in total darkness. The auto focus employs a very accurate 9-point AF system that does its job quickly, even when the subject is not in the center of the frame.  If the LCD is on you’ll see which of the nine AF points were used for the focus lock. The Macro mode has excellent coverage from six inches to about two and a half feet and controls the flash perfectly even at the closest range.”

Website: Steves Digicams - Canon Powershot S500 Review

Breeze Systems' PSRemote Supports Canon Powershot Digicams

“Breeze Systems Press Release”

Breeze Systems’ PSRemote Supports the new Canon PowerShot Pro1, A75, S500, S410 and SD110 Cameras

5th March, 2004: Breeze Systems today announced Breeze PSRemote Version 1.2 software supports Canon?s new PowerShot Pro1 camera, as well as the PowerShot A75, S500, S410 and SD110 announced by Canon at PMA in February.

Chris Breeze explained, “PSRemote has been designed to learn the settings of PowerShot cameras when the camera is first connected. This usually enables the program to support new PowerShot models without modification.”

Canon Announces 3 Digital Ixus Cameras

Canon UK Press Release 09/02/04

Canon releases new range, celebrates 30 IXUS models

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 February, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the release of three new Digital IXUS cameras. This takes to a total of 30 the number of IXUS models released since 1996.

The range release includes a new flagship of the Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 500. The 4.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 430 replaces the previous top of the line Digital IXUS 400, while the 3.2 Megapixel Digital IXUS IIs takes over from the popular Digital IXUS II.

Launched to popular and critical acclaim in May 1996, the original stainless steel IXUS APS camera triggered an avalanche success. Canon has stuck with IXUS ever since, never straying from the IXUS philosophy of simplicity and beauty that feels great in the hands. Released in May 2000, the first Digital IXUS marked the beginning of a string of successes for Canon in the style-conscious digital compact segment.

“This new range celebrates eight stylish IXUS years,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “Unmistakably IXUS, these new cameras bring together uncompromising build quality and an abundance of relevant technologies in a triumph of miniaturisation and design”.

PTN Announces Products of the Year

PTN Announces Top Photo and Imaging Products of the Year; Leading Imaging Products Help to Determine Photographic Technology Future
[Business Wire]
Business Wire via NewsEdge Corporation : MELVILLE, N.Y.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Dec. 11, 2003—If you haven’t yet purchased that digital camera, camcorder, home printer, cell phone or even a single-use camera for someone special for the holidays, don’t take another step until you look at what the experts have chosen as their top products of 2003. Photo Trade News (PTN), the number one business journal in the photo imaging industry, recently unveiled its Top Photo and Imaging Products of the Year as voted on by its thousands of photo trade retailers who are asked to rate the products that created the most consumer excitement throughout the year and impacted their bottom line.

Not surprisingly, the Top Product Overall for five years in a row was a digital camera. The Canon EOS Digital Rebel not only took top honors, but it also claimed the top spot for the Digital SLR category. With details like a highly responsive autofocus and Continuous Shooting Mode which allows users to capture split-second action sequences at 2.5 fps with a 4-shot burst, it’s easy to see what draws buyers.

The Pentax Optio S4 and Olympus Stylus Digital 300/400 tied in the Consumer Digicam category, both offering similar opportunities to capture great photographs.

“Because the winners are chosen by the photo trade industry, honorees are acknowledged by the group responsible for selling their product,” says Cygnus Imaging Group Publisher Kathy Schneider. “Being selected essentially lets the manufacturer know that they are succeeding and their retailers are happy.”

Canon’s entire line of camcorders was selected as a Top Product and it was Fuji’s line of one-time-use-cameras that retailers found to be the best seller. Epson claimed first and second spots for home printers with their Stylus Photo 925 a close second to their Stylus Photo 2200. If you’re searching for the top cell phone, look no further than Motorola’s product line.

“We’re seeing more technology-based imaging solutions and products scoring fairly high,” says PTN Publisher Liz Vickers. “The photo industry is being revolutionized with items like this year’s Overall Technology winner Graphx Photogize which gives consumers a fast and easy way to send digital photos from their home PC to the local photo retailer, for same day print fulfillment. Only a decade ago, we couldn’t even imagine such innovations.”

For a complete list of PTN’s Top Photo and Imaging Product winners and runners-up, log onto Imaging-info.com. Photo Trade News (PTN) magazine reaches 12,500 imaging industry retailers primarily through the photo specialty, minilab, consumer electronic drugstore and computer channels. The magazine is published 12 times per year and is currently in its 67th year of successfully covering the photo trade industry.

DCViews Reviews Canon Powershot S400

DCViews have enthusiastically reviewed the Canon Powershot S400 (called the Canon Digital IXUS 400 in Europe), a 4-megapixel camera that retails for around ?500 in the UK.

“The camera’s metering works faultlessly and difficult lighting situations are handled with ease, delivering clean and well exposed images every time. Clicking the sample images on this page will enlarge them to reveal how good the automatic exposure really is and show the terrific amount of image detail the camera records. It may be worth noting that none of the sample images used here have been manipulated or tampered with in any way - what you see here is what the camera delivers.”

Website: DCViews - Canon Powershot S400 Review

UK Prices for Olympus E-1 and Pentax *ist D

Brace yourselves for the news that all Olympus and Pentax film SLR owners have been waiting for (and plenty of other people too!). Both companies yesterday confirmed the prices for their new DSLRs, the Olympus E-1 and Pentax *ist D. So without any further ado, here are those prices…

Olympus E-1 Prices
- E-1 digital camera ?1,408.83 including VAT
[Including battery, charger, cable and strap]
- E-1 digital camera kit ?1,820.08 including VAT
[ Including 14-54mm F2.8-3.5 lens, battery, charger, cable and strap]

Lenses including VAT
- EZ-1454 Digital Lens 14-54mm F2.8-3.5 [including lens hood and case] ?495.85
- EM-P5020 Digital Lens ED 50mm F2 Macro [including lens hood and case] ?390.10
- EZ-5020 Digital Lens ED 50-200mm F2.8-3.5 [including lens hood and case] ?779.03
- ET-P3028 Digital Lens ED 300mm F2.8 [including lens hood and case] ?5,318.05
- EC-14 Tele Converter x 1.4 [for 14-54, 50-200 and 300mm] ?353.68
- EX-25 Extension Tube 25mm ?105.75

Pentax *ist D Prices
- Pentax *ist D camera body ?1400 including VAT
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 18-35mm f/4-5.6 FA AL J lens ?1529.99
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 FA AL J lens ?1499.99
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 20-35mm f/4 FA AL lens ?1899.99
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 24-90mm f/3.5-4.5 FA AL lens ?1799.99

Now in my humble opinion, these prices seem a little high when you consider that the Canon EOS 10D retails for around ?1150-300 body only. And lets not even mention the sub-?1000 EOS 300D! It will be very interesting to see how many E-1s and *ist Ds Olympus and Pentax sell at their recommend retail price; how soon will it be before prices become more competitive? This is less of a problem for the E-1, as it’s a whole new camera system aimed at the advanced amateur/professional photographer, but the Pentax *ist D is aimed at a similar market to the EOS 300D, and there’s currently a whopping ?500 price difference between the two cameras (body-only).

Canon EOS 300D Press Release

Here is the full un-edited Canon EOS 300D Press Release from Canon Europe:

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, August 20, 2003. - Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today launches the EOS 300D 6.3 Megapixel digital SLR. The availability in the market of an affordable consumer digital SLR is expected to greatly accelerate the speed of adoption by consumers.

?Canon expects 400-500% growth in the digital SLR segment from 2002 to 2003 in terms of shipping volume[1],? says Hiroshi Komatsuzaki, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. ?The EOS 300D will play a key strategic role in this growth. By dropping the price so significantly, Canon is very deliberately putting high performance EOS digital technology into the hands of the consumer at a time of accelerating demand for high performance digital cameras?.

The EOS 300D bundles proven high performance technologies (such as seven-point, high-speed predictive auto focus, 2.5 frame per second burst rate, 35-zone metering and DIGIC image processor) into a camera affordable to everybody.

Canon has declared the EOS 300D to be the single most important consumer SLR since the AE-1 in 1976. Just as the AE-1 triggered an SLR revolution by being the world?s first camera with an embedded microcomputer, Canon believes the EOS 300D will be seen as the point in history when the SLR market shifted irrevocably to digital.

Precision optics, unrivalled sensor quality
At the front end of the EOS 300D is the lens system and digital sensor. Film EOS users considering the move to digital will be pleased to learn the EOS 300D works seamlessly with any of Canon?s renowned EF lenses, of which there are currently more than 60.

An APS-C sized sensor gives the camera a 1.6x magnification over 35mm film format. In order to furnish EOS 300D customers with the equivalent 28-90mm zoom range so popular with 35mm film EOS users, a new EF-S 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 lens [2] has been specially developed. This lens takes advantage of the compact sensor size, employing a ?short back focus system? which mounts the lens closer to the sensor than previous models. This provides high-quality images in a remarkably low-weight, short-length lens.

The 6.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor is almost identical to that found in the award-winning EOS 10D which remains the benchmark for image quality. ISO speeds of 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1600 are selectable, giving film users a film speed range with which they will be comfortable.

Print straight from the camera
The EOS 300D is the first digital EOS camera to support the vendor-independant PictBridge print standard from launch date. Lab-quality prints can now be produced without the need for a computer by directly connecting the EOS 300D to compatible photo printers via standard USB cable. A large 1.8? LCD is used to select and review photographs to be printed and set print variables.

Fast image processing with superb results
Underpinning the camera?s technical superiority is Canon?s high-speed DIGIC (Digital Image Core) processor. In the days of film, image processing was the role of film companies and mini-labs. With digital, the critical role of image processing must be handled by the camera. Complex algorithms required to accurately process functions such as white balance and color rendition are integrated into the DIGIC processor, resulting in highquality images with no trade-off in camera responsiveness. ?A great digital image requires both quality raw ingredients and quality processing? says Komatsuzaki. ?Superior lens and sensor technologies ensure the best raw ingredients. It is what DIGIC does with these that gives the EOS 300D the edge?.

Wide area, high speed focusing
7 selectable focusing points give an ultra wide AF area generally only found in advanced SLRs. Focusing modes include One-Shot AF (for fast, accurate single-shot focusing), and AI AF which can automatically switch to AI servo AF for continuous tracking of subject movement ? well suited to sports photography. A Manual Focus override is selectable from the lens.

High-end exposure control
The EOS 300D boasts 35 zone TTL metering, essentially covering the full frame. Three metering modes (evaluative, partial, and centre weighted average) assure balanced exposures in every situation. Along with the full range of automated and manual shooting modes expected in a high-end SLR, the EOS 300D features Programmed Image Control modes such as Night Portrait, Sports, Close-up, Landscape, Portrait and Flash OFF. A built-in automatic flash pops up nearly 90mm above the optical axis to lessen the chance of red-eye for better flash photos.

Shooting adaptability
The EOS 300D is superbly specified to deliver outstanding results in virtually any shooting situation. The camera has a shutter speed range of 1/4000 ? 30 seconds, bulb and high speed x-sync at 1/200s. Simultaneous recording to both RAW and JPEG (middle/fine) formats is possible, while 2GB and higher CompactFlash cards, Types I and II, are supported. Optional wired or infra-red wireless remote control is available. Adobe RGB has been added to the standard sRGB colour space. There are seven Auto White Balance settings (such as cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent, etc.) plus custom White Balance and +/- 3 stop White Balance Bracketing (WB-BKT).

Comprehensive accessories, software and online access
The EOS 300D comes complete with battery pack, charger, USB cable, video cable, wide embroidered anti-slip neck strap. Purchase of the EOS 300D entitles customers to membership of the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY [3] web portal for a 100 MB online photo album for image uploads. A full software suite is included for handling image file transfers between camera and computer, managing and printing files, and preview and conversion of RAW image files. PhotoStitch is included for seamless merging of panorama shots.

Mr. Mitarai?s (President and CEO of Canon Inc.) announcement can be viewed after 14:00 CET on August 20th at the following link: http://www.canon.com/press_movies/speech0802.asx

[1] Source: JEITA data with Canon forecast
[2] The lens will not be sold separately and will only be available with the purchase of the EOS 300D
[3] May not be available in all regions

Interview with Alessandro Stanzani, Canon Europe Head of Marketing

In this interview, given just days before the launch of the EOS 300D, Alessandro Stanzani talks about the EOS 300D, its role in changing the face of photography and Canon?s passion for the SLR.

Why is Canon suddenly placing so much emphasis on SLRs?
SLR is Canon?s heritage. EOS is our heart; SLR is our story. We are number one in SLRs around the world. In Europe we have a 40% share of the SLR market. And the future of SLR is digital. As leader, our mission is to be at the vanguard of the global shift to digital. Already most major news agencies are specifying the professional series EOS 1D for their photographers. The EOS 300D is the best proof Canon can give to the market that the age of digital SLR has arrived.

What is so important about the EOS 300D?
Canon is also the world leader in photography. The EOS 300D carries this leadership forward by making available, for the very first time, high-end digital SLR technology at an affordable price. History will remember the launch of the EOS 300D as the point in time when the imaging market shifted irrevocably from analogue to digital.

What are Canon?s expectations for digital SLR growth?
Canon anticipates the market for digital SLRs to grow between 400% and 500% in 2003, over 2002. This market will increase 10 times from 2002 to 2005. Canon expects to have a 50% share of this market.

Canon has said this is the most significant camera since the AE1. How so?
The AE-1 was the world?s first camera with an embedded microcomputer. But what did that mean? There were other cameras available at the time capable of doing what the AE-1 could do. The critical point of this development was that it allowed for the production of a low-cost camera with high-end features. This sparked an SLR revolution. There are hundreds of thousands of people across Europe waiting for an affordable digital SLR. Either they are using film SLR, or they understand the benefits of SLR photography. Maybe they remember the AE1. Until today their only chance of digital SLR ownership has been to purchase a professional or semi-professional camera, which for most people is simply not affordable. The EOS 300D changes all that. It will spark enormous growth, opening up the market not only to keen amateur photographers, but to the masses. The EOS 300D is about to trigger the next SLR revolution.

Why has Canon waited until now to declare that this is the time to convert to digital?
Photography used to be tightly limited. Shoot a roll of film, take it to the photo store and pick up the prints some time later. For 99% of people, this is what photography was. Only professionals and dedicated enthusiasts had the time and resources to truly explore their creativity.
Now we are witnessing a convergence of services, products and technologies that is putting choice and creativity into the hands of consumers. It is not just about digital cameras now having the quality to compete with film. Consumers can produce lab-quality prints at home by connecting their camera directly to affordable, high quality photo-printers. They can use web services ? such as our CiG web portal for Canon customers ? to store and share albums and make online orders for home-delivered prints. And as for dropping off rolls of film to the lab, photographs to be printed can now be left on flash cards or Microdrives and dropped off to an ever-expanding base of digital print retailers.

Alongside that, we are witnessing a huge shift in consumer behaviour. Consumers with digital cameras are taking five times as many photographs as they used to. They are experimenting with software to edit, manipulate and enhance their photographs. They are expressing their imagination. So the digital world is removing the limits to creativity by opening up entirely new possibilities.

The final ingredient in the mix is camera affordability. Sales of digital compacts show they are already at a realistic price point. The EOS 300D price now brings digital SLR into the picture.

Why has Canon chosen to stick with the CMOS sensor?
The Canon CMOS sensor is a complete Canon development and considerable R&D resource has been invested into perfecting it. Awards won by our current product line-up would suggest our efforts have been well directed. Given that it now represents the current image quality benchmark against which other sensors are compared, it makes good sense for us to have chosen CMOS.

Is Canon committed to sticking with CMOS ahead of CCD technology?
Canon?s approach has always been to select the most appropriate technology for the product under consideration. In the case of the EOS 300D, CMOS was chosen simply because it is the most suitable sensor technology to enable us to introduce consumers to digital SLR photography.

What is the difference between the CMOS sensor found in the EOS 10D and the EOS 300D?
The CMOS sensor found in the EOS 300D is similar to that found in the EOS 10D. The manufacturing process is slightly different, but the quality output between the two devices is essentially the same. The three-layer optical low pass filter and IR cut filter are identical to those found on the EOS 10D, where they have proven highly effective.

Why does the EOS 300D have an APS-C sensor instead of full frame?
The APS-C sensor has some advantages, which made it the obvious choice for the EOS 300D. The key has been the possibility to bring professional quality digital SLR photography to the consumer price point of the EOS 300D.

Does Canon have a full-frame consumer digital SLR in the wings?
No. The EOS 1Ds has a 35mm sensor but this is a camera which suits the highly specialised requirements of a very select group of professional photographers. The strategy for Canon is to design cameras to suit our customer?s needs. So what does full frame really mean? With 6.3 million pixels, the EOS 300D sensor has a resolution which, in most situations, would meet the needs of many professional photographers. At the same time, this sensor size has allowed us to meet our design objective of putting high-end technology into the hands of the consumer. From a technical perspective, putting a 35mm sensor into the EOS 300D would, in most cases, give no advantage to our customers. Yet in doing so we would force the price well out of our target range.

Is the EF-S lens the start of a new EF-S series?
The short back focus system of the EOS 300D provided a route for Canon to develop the EF?S 18?55mm - a high performance, low weight, short length, cost effective standard zoom lens for EOS 300D customers. This lens only fits the EOS 300D but, as with all EOS cameras, the EOS 300D fits every lens in the EF range. So when the time comes for EOS 300D customers to consider their next lens, they will share the advantage of every other EOS user by having the whole range of over 60 EF lenses to choose from. This particular EF-S lens is therefore seen as a specialised lens within the EF range. It is the EF range to which we are committed and to which Canon continues to invest substantial development resource.

Canon has recently made a lot of noise about the success of DIGIC. Is the DIGIC processor in the EOS 300D the same as that found in other Canon cameras?
Yes, it is the same chip. The DIGIC processor has a number of functional blocks within it. Different functional blocks are used, depending on what type of camera we are dealing with. For example, the focusing systems between compact cameras and SLRs are fundamentally different. If you look at the digital SLR body, it has a sensor dedicated for focus, a sensor dedicated to exposure metering and then the image sensor, all on different optical paths. A digital compact camera has all those three functions integrated into the main imaging sensor. So given the integral role DIGIC plays in the camera?s image processing, it stands to reason that the way in which DIGIC is used will depend largely on what type of camera is employed.

The market seems intent on using pixel count as a means of measuring a camera?s worth. Is having the highest number of pixels important to Canon?
Pixel count is of course crucial to Canon; it is the parameter on which many users first focus when comparing models. But as numerous specialised and reliable magazines have proved, it is just one of many factors influencing image quality. Lens quality is obviously critical and image processing functions play a crucial role ? hence Canon?s massive investment in lens technologies and DIGIC processors.

Winning the pixel race can have very little to do with building quality cameras that return exceptional images, and customers are beginning to understand this.

What does Canon see as the competition to the EOS 300D?
There is no directly competing digital SLR at this price point for consumers. Competitors for the EOS 300D therefore come from outside its field, either in terms of price or performance. In terms of performance, the EOS 300D is up against digital SLRs that are currently more than twice its price. In terms of price, the EOS 300D offers potential purchasers of digital compact cameras a choice; either digital SLR or advanced digital compact camera.

In an interview you gave in February you predicted that sales of digital still cameras would double this year. How has the market performed against that prediction?
The market continues to be ahead of that projection. Canon expects that the introduction of the EOS 300D will trigger 500% growth in the digital SLR market in 2003, over 2002. The research we now have shows that across the whole array of consumer products, digital cameras are one of the three most desirable products; the other two being DVD players and new generation mobile phones.

In that same interview you predicted that unit sales of digital cameras will outstrip that of analogue. Has that yet happened?
Yes. Shipment of digital cameras has already over-taken that of analogue; in fact this happened at the beginning of 2003. In terms of market value, digital overtook analogue two years ago. The world-wide install base of digital cameras was predicted to overtake that of analogues by 2010 but we now expect this to happen earlier.

Will Canon continue to develop analogue SLR products?
Yes. There will continue to be demand for analogue SLRs and we will continue to develop products to meet that demand. This is clearly the turning point where the market will make a significant shift to digital, but we recognise there is enormous value in continuing to support the analogue market.

A complaint of Canon digital cameras is that Canon is often unable to keep supply up to meet demand. How does Canon intend to meet anticipated demand for the EOS 300D?
Once the market is aware, there is no doubt there will be enormous demand for the EOS 300D, and we have stocked accordingly. What Canon wants to do is shorten the time between availability and market awareness. Waiting for reviews, articles and information to be published can take two or three months. But we want everybody to know right now that this is the product, and this is the price. This is why there is so much focus on the launch.

Olympus has proposed a common lens mount. Does Canon have any plans to join the program?
The Kodak and the Olympus lens mount is a completely new and largely unproven development and as yet there are very few lenses which work with this system. With over 60 proven lenses available to our EOS customers in the EF lens line up, we have no plan to join the common lens mount proposed by Olympus.

The Canon 10D at Night

I’ve lived in London for about a year and a half now. During that time I’ve strolled around the streets, taking photographs for my City and Guilds photography course and just for myself. But in all that time, and all those photographs, I’ve never once ventured out after dark, or even remotely near sunset for that matter. In fact, I can’t recall ever taking a photograph at night full stop, unless you count the sunrise pictures from Thailand (but that’s another story).

Last night I took the tube into Central London, into the City, probably my favourite part as it’s so quiet once all the workers have gone home. First, I decided to try and photograph the sun setting behind Tower Bridge, but quickly discovered that the sun sets around the corner of the Thames, and that there isn’t a good enough vantage point. As the light faded, I crossed and recrossed the bridge, vainly trying to find a good location. No success.

Instead I made the best decision of the evening by setting up in the grounds of the Tower of London, right by the Thames, and waiting for the bridge lights to come on and darkness to fall. Wow! What a spectacle. I’d seen other people’s photos of Tower Bridge at night, but never in the flesh before. My own image of this much-photographed landmark now adorns my computer’s desktop; I’ll post a couple of images later.

Which brings me onto the image in this particular post. Again, another London landmark that is well-photographed, but one that probably every photographer should have in their collection. Lloyds of London is one of those buildings that you either love or hate, but at night it gains an almost ethereal quality as it is lit up using white, purple and green lights. I only took a couple of photos, as it was late and proper black darkness had fallen (apparently not the best time to take night photos). This is the best one of the two.

Here are the technical details for anyone who’s still reading. Camera was the Canon EOS 10D. Lens was the Canon 20-35mm f/3.5-4.5 USM. The exposure time was 60 seconds at f/22. Tripod mounted. This is actually the Small JPEG extracted from the RAW file, which is about 500Kb in size. Opened in Photoshop 6, NO adjustment to levels or contrast, resized to 400x267 pixels, then USM applied at 150% / 0.5 radius / 0 threshold. Chose Save for Web and saved as JPEG - Quality 50 (medium). Final file size is 39Kb.

DPReview Reviews Canon Powershot S400

DPReview have posted their 3rd review so far this week, looking at the Canon Powershot S400 (called the Canon Digital IXUS 400 in Europe), a 4-megapixel camera that retails for ?500. Phil Askey seemed to like it, awarding it his “Highly Recommended” rating and saying:

“The PowerShot S400 is a stylish ultra-compact, it follows in the tradition of previous ultra-compact PowerShots in being functional, of very good build quality and producing excellent images. The new ‘Cerabrite’ material used for the S400’s case is a bit of a revelation, it looks far brighter and cleaner than the older stainless steel, doesn’t show finger prints and is harder to scratch. It will I’m sure look great on the shelves and in the shop windows.”

Website: DPReview - Canon Powershot S400 Review

Canon EOS SLR camera and CanoScan promotion

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is offering customers the chance to get up to ?60 cashback when they purchase selected EOS SLR cameras together with selected CanoScan scanners from 1st April 2003 to 30th June 2003. Customers will be able to take advantage of this special offer by completing a voucher inside the box of all eligible Canon products. Canon will then credit their bank account with a cashback payment of up to ?60.

The offer applies to the following combinations of Canon EOS SLR cameras and CanoScan scanners:

- Canon EOS 300V with any Canon lens kit + CanoScan 5000F = ?30 cashback
- Canon EOS 300V with any Canon lens kit + CanoScan LiDE 20 = ?30 cashback
- Canon EOS 30 EF28-90mm f/4.0-5.6 USM lens kit + CanoScan 5000F = ?60 cashback
- Canon EOS 30 EF28-90mm f/4.0-5.6 USM lens kit + CanoScan LiDE 20 = ?60 cashback

Canon 10D Macros

I found a few minutes this evening to experiment with an area of photography that I have virtually no experience and, until recently at least, no interest in. Macro photography, and in particular macro photography of flowers, has never sparked my imagination. I mean, if you’ve seen one photo of a flower, then you’ve seen them all, right?

Err, wrong actually. Now that I can actually see and review what I’ve just taken a photo of, I’m willing to try out new things, including, would you believe it, macro photography. So here’s a few shots of flowers taken with the 10D and the macro function on my Tamron zoom lens (which isn’t strictly speaking a macro lens at all).

*Note 1: Macro number 3 is actually a 500x333 pixel crop from Macro 2.
*Note 2: I have adjusted the images slightly in Photoshop - levels, contrast, USM, the usual things…
*Note 3: The 10D can save an image as both a RAW file and a JPEG file at the same time. All of these images are the small JPEGs that the camera created.
*Note 4: If anyone’s interested in seeing a full-size, unedited RAW file, then let me know, and I’ll maybe email something to you.

Canon 10D Macro #1	Canon 10D Macro #2	Canon 10D Macro #3

Pentax Announce Optio 550 and 450

As revealed yesterday, Pentax have announced the 5-megapixel Optio 550 and the 4-megapixel Optio 450. Both models host a variety of features including a high resolution 1.5 inch LCD monitor, a movie mode that captures up to ten minutes of video with sound, a voice memo recording mode, a vice memo function, panorama assist, full manual control and a 5X optical zoom (20X combined). As with Nikon’s earlier announcement, there is no sign yet of an imminent DSLR release from Pentax.

Website: Pentax Press Release - Optio 450/550

Pentax have also announced a new film camera, which like Nikon’s F75 is a direct competitor to Canon’s very popular EOS 300. The bizarrely named Pentax *ist (yes, that asterix is part of the name) is supposedly “one of the world?s smallest in the Auto Focus SLR category”. I’m not sure which other cameras’ are smaller, but this doesn’t seem like a great claim to fame from Pentax.

Feature highlights of the *ist include a multi-mode exposure system with an innovative Auto Picture mode and an accessible illumination mode dial, a 16-segment multi-pattern metering system, an 11-point Auto Focus system, a 1/4000-second high-speed shutter, 17 custom functions, a large LCD panel, a multi-data LCD viewfinder indicator, and a retractable auto pop-up flash.

Website: Pentax Press Release - New Film SLR

At a time when the digital race is getting ever faster, it seems a little odd that both Nikon and Pentax have announced new low/mid-end film SLRs. I guess there must still be a big market out there for these kind of cameras. ?200 -?300 is the typical entry-level price-range for most new photographers who are looking for a film camera that’s more sophisticated than a compact. But how many of those people are still considering film? Are they paying more money, say ?500, for a digital camera that offers similar functionality to a typical film SLR, but with all the convenience that digital offers?