Sony plays its hand Just in case you somehow missed the recent announcements, Sony has put down its marker by radically refreshing its consumer- and enthusiast-level lineup. The company has released four cameras, each of them worthy of attention in their own right. Probably the biggest news was the long-awaited SLT-A77, the company's replacement for its A700 semi-pro DSLR. And, while we think the A77, with its 24MP sensor and impressively high-resolution electronic viewfinder is impressive, we're just as intrigued by the A65 - its sister model that it likely to put this technology in a lot of photographers' hands.
 [/t][/t] |
As well as the SLTs, Sony has updated its NEX range of mirrorless cameras - with the launch of the NEX-5N and NEX-7. The 5N is a completely reworked replacement for the original NEX-5, featuring a touch screen, higher-resolution sensor and option for adding an electronic viewfinder. Meanwhile the NEX-7 is a true enthusiast-targeted model with much of the A77's technology squeezed into a body little larger than the 5N but featuring the most direct control yet seen in the NEX family.
Samsung's NX200 steps up Samsung has also been re-engineering its mirrorless offerings, with the launch of the NX200, the range's biggest update since its inception. The NX200 is built around a totally new 20.3MP sensor with redesigned filters and microlenses in an attempt to maximise light capture. We've prepared a hands-on preview, discussing the latest model's features and including a pre-production samples gallery. We've also published a brief hands-on video about the camera - something we'll be doing more of in future.
Panasonic folds the Micro back into Micro Four Thirds Panasonic did its best to grab some attention back from Sony's big releases by going small - with the release of a collapsible standard zoom for the Micro Four Thirds system. We've seen collapsible zooms before (from both Olympus and Samsung) but the Panasonic Lumix G X Vario 14-42mm PZ F3.5-5.6 OIS is something very different. By replacing the zoom and focus rings with two small levers and making both zoom and focus motor-driven, the lens can be collapsed into a body the size of the company's 20mm F1.7 pancake prime. We've prepared a hands-on preview of this movie-optimized collapsible zoom, demonstrating just how small it is.
Articles section launched In amongst all the product releases, we've had announcements of our own: the launch of the 'Articles' section of the site. This is part of the site's expansion to cover more than just the technology of photography, but also its creative aspects. We've written and commissioned a series of articles on a broad range of photographic topics, with explanations of photo techniques, accessory reviews, book reviews, photographer interviews and profiles, and more. We'll be regularly publishing these articles alongside our reviews and news content and you can expect to see new articles appearing daily from now on. Moreover, the article creation and management system we've built will soon be made available to everyone. Click here to read more.
Richard
[/t] | | Just posted: Our in-depth review of the Olympus E-P3 Wed, 17 AugJust Posted: Although it retains its predecessor's styling, the Olympus PEN E-P3 shares very little else with its forebears. There's still a 12MP Four Thirds-sized sensor at its heart, but its autofocus, rear screen and movie capabilities have all been radically overhauled. Crucially, Olympus has also managed to squeeze a flash into the body. Now sitting at the top of a three-model range, the E-P3 is clearly positioned as a camera for enthusiasts. So, do its third-generation refinements and promises of world-beating AF performance make the E-P3 into the camera that the PEN series always promised to be? (more)
[/t] Lytro's Ren Ng sheds some light on the company's ambitions Thu, 18 AugLytro's announcement that it will be launching a plenoptic 'light field' camera that allows images to be re-focused after they've been taken, was met with equal amounts of interest and skepticism. Interested to find out more, we spoke to the company's founder and CEO, Ren Ng, to hear just what he has planned and how far towards a product the company has got. (more)
[/t] Sony launches pair of Full HD and 3D digital binoculars Fri, 19 AugSony has launched two pairs of digital binoculars capable of recording Full HD and 3D video. The DEV-3 and DEV-5 binoculars feature 10x optical zoom lenses, pairs of EVFs and compact-camera-sized 7MP CMOS sensors. They take advantage of the recent extension of the AVCHD standard, enabling them to record 1080p video. The autofocus, image-stabilized binoculars can record up to two-hours of 2D footage on a single battery charge, recording to Memory Stick cards and allowing output via an HDMI connector. The DEV-5 model allows digital zoom, includes GPS and comes with a host of accessories and, at $2000, a $700 higher price-tag. (more)
[/t] Just posted: Our review of the Sony NEX-C3 Mon, 22 AugJust Posted: Our review of the Sony NEX-C3. The third model in Sony's innovative NEX line, the entry-level C3 brings a host of improvements, headlined by a new 16.2MP sensor - an adapted version of the one used in the SLT-A55. An addition, the C3 also boasts expanded customization and a revised 'Creative Control' user interface, designed to appeal to compact camera upgraders. So does its higher-resolution sensor and tweaked interface make the NEX-C3 the ultimate beginner-friendly interchangeable lens camera? (more)
[/t] Canon announces Pixma MG3150 & MG2150 budget all-in-one printers Tue, 23 AugCanon has unveiled the PIXMA MG3150 and MG2150 budget-orientated all-in-one printers. The MG2150 is the most basic model, offering 4800x1200dpi 4-ink printing at rates of up to 4.8ipm color (8.4ipm mono). The MG3150 improves on this by adding Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing its use with the Easy-PhotoPrint App that allows simple printing from and scanning to iOS or Android smartphones. It also offers duplex (double-sided) printing and increased printing speeds of 5.0ipm color (9.2ipm mono). Both feature the latest version of Canon's Easy-PhotoPrint EX software that now includes the ability to add 'Fun Filter Effects' such as Toy Camera to your images before printing. (more)
[/t] Canon announces Pixma MG5350 wireless all-in-printer Tue, 23 AugCanon has announced the PIXMA MG5350, a mid-range all-in-one printer/scanner. Unlike the models below it, the MG5350 gains 9600x2400dpi 5-ink printing, along with a 7.5cm (3") LCD panel. The printing rate is increased to 9.3ipm in color (12.5ipm in mono), and the scanning resolution also increased to 2400x4800dpi. There is also the option to print directly on BluRay Discs, DVDs and CDs. It also gains the PIXMA Cloud Link that allows you to directly print images from Canon's Image Gateway or Google's Picasa image hosting service. (more)
[/t] Canon introduces Pixma MG8250 & MG6250 all-in-one printers Tue, 23 AugCanon has introduced the PIXMA MG8250 and MG6250 all-in-one printers for photographic printing. The MG6250 builds on the specifications of the co-released MG5350 by offering 6-ink printing with a 9.3ipm color printing (12.5ipm mono). Scanning resolution jumps to 4800x4800dpi and an Ethernet connection is added. Over and above this, the MG8250 gains a 4800x9600dpi film-scanning option and an 8.8cm (3.5") touch-panel LCD screen. Both include an Easy-PhotoPrint plug-in for controlling printing from Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, Elements or Canon Digital Photo Professional software. They also share the PIXMA Cloud Link and Easy-PhotoPrint App compatibility of the less expensive models. (more)
[/t] Canon launches PowerShot SX150 IS superzoom Tue, 23 AugCanon has updated its budget SX compact superzoom with the launch of the PowerShot SX150 IS. The SX150 IS adds a 14.1MP CCD in the place of the SX130's 12MP chip. Beyond that the specs are familiar - a 12x 28-336mm equivalent image stabilized lens, 720p30 HD video recording and a comparatively low-resolution 230k dot 3.0" LCD screen. Canon brings its latest 'Intelligent' image stabilization technology to bear on the SX150, with the camera automatically selecting from seven different modes, based on its understanding of the type of shooting being conducted. (more)
[/t] Canon introduces ELPH 310 HS/IXUS 230 HS compact camera Tue, 23 AugCanon has launched the ELPH 310 HS (IXUS 230 HS in Europe), a surprisingly long zoom style compact. The squeezes an 8x zoom into the sort of tiny, colorful body we expect of the ELPH/IXUS series. The extra zoom (out to an impressive 224mm equiv), comes at the expense of the wide-angle capability, with the 230 HS's lens starting at a still fairly handy 28mm equiv, rather than the 24mm equivalent featured on recent comparable models. The lens also features the company's latest 'Intelligent' image stabilization. Beyond that there's a 12.1 back-illuminated CMOS sensor and 3.0" 460k dot LCD. It can also shoot 1080p24 HD video. (more)
[/t] Canon announces ELPH 510 HS / IXUS 1100 HS compact superzoom Tue, 23 AugCanon has unveiled the ELPH 510 HS (IXUS 1100 HS) - a super-slim compact superzoom in the ELPH/IXUS family. Despite its small size, it manages to fit a 28-336mm equivalent, image stabilized lens in front of its 12.1MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor. It also has a 460k dot 3.2" (8.8cm) touchscreen LCD on its reverse. Unlike most previous Canon ELPHs, it includes the ability to shoot in 16:9, 3:2 and 1:1 image ratios. Beyond that there are the usual Digic 4-powered creative effects such as Miniature and Toy Camera, the ability to shoot high-speed bursts, slow-motion movies and 1080p24 HD capture. The 510 HS is also compatible with a new optional external flash. (more)
[/t] Adobe issues Lightroom 3.5 and ACR 6.5 release candidates Tue, 23 AugAdobe has released 'Release Candidates' of its Camera RAW 6.5 and Lightroom 3.5 raw processing software. The updates cover 12 additional cameras including the Olympus E-P3, E-PL3 and E-PM1, Panasonic's G3 and GF3, Sony's NEX-C3 and SLT-A35 and Fujifilm's F600 EXR. Also included are 26 additional lens profiles. Both are available from the company's Adobe Labs site and also address a number of issues reported via customer feedback. The company uses the term 'Release Candidate' to denote software that is well tested but not yet the final version. (more)
[/t] Nikon introduces CoolPix AW100 rugged compact camera Wed, 24 AugThe Nikon AW100 rugged waterproof camera has surfaced. It features a 5x image stabilized zoom lens (28-140mm equivalent in 35mm terms) and a 16MP CMOS sensor. It is waterproof to 10m (33ft) and drop-proof from 1.5m (5ft) and features built-in GPS. It's the first time Nikon has dipped its toe in the waterproof sector since its famous Nikonos series was discontinued in 2001. (more)
[/t] Nikon releases CoolPix S1200pj, S8200, S6200 and S100 compacts Wed, 24 AugNikon has extensively refreshed its CoolPix 'S' series with the launch of the S8200, S6200, S1200pj and S100 compact cameras. The S8200 is a an updated version of the S8100, now featuring a 16MP CMOS sensor but retaining the impressive 25-350mm equiv lens. Meanwhile the S6200 has a 16MP CCD sensor with 25-250mm lens. The S1200pj is the latest in Nikon's line of projector cameras and features a brighter, higher-contrast projector. This too is built around a CCD (albeit only a 14MP example), offering the same 720p24 video as the S6200. Finally, the S100 is a card-style camera built around the same 16MP CMOS chip as the S8200 and consequently also capable of 1080p24 video capture. It features an 810k dot OLED touch screen. (more)
[/t] Nikon CoolPix P7100 announced and previewed Wed, 24 AugNikon has announced the CoolPix P7100 - an updated version of its P7000 enthusiasts' compact. The P7100 addresses many of the faults that held back its predecessor in our round-up late last year. So, while the specifications improve by gaining an extra control dial and a flip-out LCD, the biggest improvement is to the camera's responsiveness (the image quality never really being in question). We had a chance to use the P7100 and have prepared a brief hands-on preview. (more)
[/t] Sony launches NEX-VG20 Handycam Camcorder Wed, 24 AugSony has announced the NEX-VG20, an updated version of its VG-10 Handycam Camcorder capable of 1080p60 recording. The camera captures its AVCHD 2.0 footage on the same 16.1 MP Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor that is also in use in the NEX-5N and C3 consumer still cameras. Upgrades include improved manual controls and grips that have been modified for better low-angle shooting. The camera's a Quad Capsule Spatial Array Microphone that now supports stereo and 5.1 channel surround. VG20 users will be able to choose from seven E-mount lenses or use the optional LA-EA2 lens mount adaptor to attach Sony's A-mount optics to the camera. The VG20 will be available at retailers in November for $2,199 with the 18-200 F3.5-6.3 E-mount lens or $1,599 as a body-only version. (more)
[/t] Sony unveils four lenses for A and E mounts Wed, 24 AugSony has announced four lenses, one Alpha mount and three E mount for its NEX system. The first is the DT 16-50mm F2.8 SSM (SAL1650), a dust- and water-resistant fast standard zoom with a range equivalent to 24-75mm on full frame. NEX users get a premium fast prime, the Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* E 24mm F1.8 ZA (SEL24F18Z), plus the E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS telephoto zoom (SEL55210), and last but not least the E 50mm F1.8 OSS (SEL50F18) - the fastest optically-stabilized lens available for interchangeable-lens cameras. Click through for more details on availability and specifications. (more)
[/t] Sony launches NEX-5N APS-C mid-range mirrorless compact Wed, 24 AugSony has announced the Alpha NEX-5N a successor to the popular NEX-5. Although the NEX-5N looks nearly identical to the NEX-5, it shares very few components. It features a 16MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a touch-screen interface. It also takes advantage of the newly-published AVCHD 2.0 standard to offer 1080p60 HD video. We've had our hands on a pre-production NEX-5N and have prepared a preview looking at the features it's gained. We've also shot a real-world samples gallery to give a taste of what it can do. (more)
[/t] Sony NEX-7 press release and specifications Wed, 24 AugSony has made public the much rumored NEX-7 high-end, enthusiast mirrorless compact camera. It manages to squeeze vast amounts of the A77's capabilities into a body barely bigger than the existing NEX models. It packs a 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor and 2.4M dot OLED electronic viewfinder into its magnesium alloy body and yet still finds room for a pop-up flash and Alpha hot shoe. It may be one of the most expensive mirrorless models we've yet seen but it's also currently unmatched, in specification terms, by any of its peers. This is clearly Sony's response to its discovery that it's not just upgraders from point-and-shoot compacts that are interested in this type of camera. (more)
[/t] Sony announces Alpha SLT-A65 consumer-level DSLR-competitor Wed, 24 AugSony has also launched the Sony Alpha SLT-A65, a consumer-level DSLR-competitor. Making use of the company's translucent mirror technology, the A65 offers many of the features of SLT-A77 at a considerably lower price. It includes the same 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor and 2.4M dot OLED viewfinder. It can shoot at up to 10 frames-per-second and includes all the lens correction capabilities of its big brother. We've been using the A65 for the last week and have prepared a hands-on preview, detailing its features. (more)
[/t] Sony NEX-7 high-end APS-C mirrorless camera first look Wed, 24 AugSony has announced the much leaked NEX-7 enthusiast-targeted mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. Working samples of the NEX-7 have not been made available to the press anywhere in the world, so we have not been able to prepare a hands-on preview. However, we have seen and handled an early pre-production unit and have interrogated Sony about its operation. We have used this to prepare an overview of the camera, which we will expand to a preview when cameras with functioning firmware are available. (more)
[/t] Sony unveils SLT-A77 flagship APS-C DSLR-rival Wed, 24 AugSony has released the SLT-A77, a successor to its A700 semi-pro DSLR. The long-promised A77 makes use of Sony's translucent mirror technology to offer an impressive 12 frame-per-second shooting rate, despite its 24MP APS CMOS sensor. In addition has the highest-resolution electronic viewfinder we've ever encountered, with a 2.4M dot OLED viewfinder that rivals the company's full-frame A900 for size. We've been using a pre-production A77 for just over a week and have prepared a hands-on preview including real-world sample gallery. Has it been worth the wait for the Alpha faithful? (more)
[/t] Sony announcements: content updated Wed, 24 AugSony content updated. In the light of the level of interest in Sony's latest launches, we've gone back and added more information to much of our content. Now our servers have cooled down a bit, we've gone back and, in response to the questions you've been asking, we've updated our coverage. Most noticeably, we've added some 1080p60 movie samples to the A77 preview. We've also added improved illustrations to our NEX-7 first look to make it easier to see how the control system is going to work. (more)
[/t] Olympus US announces PEN Mini (E-PM1) pricing Thu, 25 AugOlympus has announced pricing and availability for its forthcoming PEN E-PM1 entry-level mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. The camera with the latest MSC II R version of the company's collapsable 14-42mm kit lens will cost $499.95. The smallest of the PEN familiy of Micro Four Thirds cameras, the PEN Mini includes many of the features of the more expensive E-PL3 but with a simplified user-interface. It will be available in the US from September 2011. (more)
[/t] Just Posted: Nikon CoolPix P7100 preview samples gallery Thu, 25 AugUpdated: Nikon CoolPix P7100 hands-preview with image samples. Following the launch of the Nikon CoolPix P7100 yesterday, we've updated our hands-on preview with a small gallery of image samples. These pictures were taken in the brief time that we spent with a late pre-production P7100, prior to its announcement. We're expecting a production sample soon, and we will update this gallery with more images at the earliest possible opportunity. (more)
[/t] Lumix FX90 Wi-Fi-enabled touchscreen compact camera Fri, 26 AugPanasonic has announced the Wi-Fi-compatible Lumix DMC-FX90 touchscreen compact camera. The FX90 is based around a 12MP high-speed CCD that uses dual readout channels to allow 1080i60 video from its 30p output. It also features a 24-120mm equiv, F2.5-5.9 stabilized lens. The camera can connect to Apple and Android smartphones running a 'Lumix Link' app and use their 'phone to upload images, via Panasonic's 'Lumix Club' internet portal, to sites such as Facebook and Flickr. The camera can also connect to Lumix Club via any Wi-Fi connection that doesn't require a web browser to connect. (more)
[/t] Panasonic DMC-LX5 firmware 2.0 brings image and handling improvements Fri, 26 AugPanasonic has updated the firmware for its LX5 high-end enthusiast compact. The update promises faster AF times and improved noise reduction for images shot at ISO 1600 or 3200. White balance under artificial light has also been tweaked, as well as a series of operational and handling improvements being made. There are revisions too for image stabilization in movie mode, the addition of a 'Miniature mode' processing mode. Coming 13 months after the camera's launch, the move continues Panasonic's habit of continuing to invest in its enthusiast models well into their lifecycle. The firmware will be available from September 13th. (more)
[/t] Panasonic launches Lumix G X Vario PZ 45-175mm F4.0-5.6 ASPH OIS Fri, 26 AugPanasonic has revealed the Lumix G X Vario PZ 45-175mm F4.0-5.6 ASPH Power OIS power zoom. The telephoto zoom carries the company's 'Lumix X' branding that it will be using to denote premium quality lenses. Along with the PZ 14-42mm, it features a quiet variable-speed power zoom for smooth zooming during movie recording but, unlike the collapsible standard zoom, the 45-175mm also features 'by-wire' dials for direct control of zoom and focus. The lens features a compact, lightweight design and uses an internal zoom mechanism, meaning it stays the same length at all times. (more)
[/t] Just Posted: Panasonic DMX-FZ150 preview stills and HD videos samples Fri, 26 AugWe've been using a pre-production Panasonic DMC-FZ150 superzoom for a couple of days and have put together a previews samples gallery from the camera. We've selected a 39-image samples gallery shot in a variety of situations and at variety of ISO settings, to give a taste of how this latest 12MP MOS sensor performs. We've also uploaded three videos shot in the camera's 1080p60 Full HD mode. As always, as well as being able to view the images and videos, you can download the full-size originals. (more)
[/t] Panasonic reveals Lumix DMC-FZ150 12MP 24x 1080p60 MOS superzoom Fri, 26 AugPanasonic has announced the DMC-FZ150 CMOS-powered 24X superzoom. The FZ150 is a replacement for the slightly unloved FZ100 and incorporates a lower-resolution 12MP sensor thatthe company says will outperform its predecessor's 14MP chip. The camera retains a 25-600mm equivalent lens but now incorporating 'Nano Surface Coating' to mitigate the effects of internal reflections. And, just like its predecessor, the FX150 retains the ability to record Raw images. The FZ150 also shoots 1080p60 HD movies in the recently-created AVCHD Progressive standard. (more)
[/t] Panasonic launches Lumix G X Vario PZ 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 OIS pancake Fri, 26 AugPanasonic has announced the Lumix G X Vario PZ 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 OIS collapsible power-zoom lens. The pancake zoom represents a series of firsts for Panasonic and the Micro Four Thirds system - it incorporates a lever-operated powered zoom and similarly controlled manual focus system. It is also the first lens to gain the company's 'Lumix X' branding that it will use to denotes high-end performance. The power zoom design with quiet focus and zoom motors joins the stepless aperture design to help optimize the lens for HD video shooting. The company will be pairing the lens with its diminutive DMC-GF3 camera body, or selling it separately for around $399. We've been using one of the first pre-production examples of the lens and have prepared a preview that demonstrates its behavior. (more)
[/t] Richard Franiec grip coming soon for Olympus PEN E-PL3 Mon, 29 AugAccessory grip maker Richard Franiec has announced he is developing a grip for the Olympus PEN Lite (E-PL3). The grip closely mimics the designs he already makes for the Canon S90/S95, Olympus XZ-1, Leica D-Lux 4 and 5, and the Sigma DP series. The anodized aluminium grip attaches to the front of the camera using industrial-grade adhesive tape and provides a hand hold very similar to the one offered by the Panasonic GF2 and GF3. The first batch of grips will be available from mid-September at a cost of $34.95 plus shipping. (more)
[/t] Panasonic gives details of power zoom-enabling firmware v1.1 for GH2, G3, GF3 and GF2 Mon, 29 AugPanasonic has provided details of a firmware update for its recent G-system cameras to provide full compatibility with the newly-announced Lumix X power zoom lenses. The firmware, which will be available at 'the beginning of October' will work with the DMC-GH2, G3, GF3 and GF2, and will provide several additional options for how the powered zoom is controlled. By a process of elimination, it seems reasonable to assume these are the functions that won't be available to older G-series users (G1, GF1, GH1, G2, G10), and possibly Olympus PEN users. (more)
[/t] JPEGMini promises smaller files - PetaPixel shows Photoshop quality quirk Mon, 29 AugTechnology company ICVT has developed an method to optimize JPEG compression. The company's JPEGMini system analyses each image to assess the maximum compression that can be applied to an image without loss of perceptible quality. The company says you can expect a 50-80% reduction in filesize over a JPEG that hasn't been intelligently optimized. At present the system can only be used via the company's online service. Meanwhile, the news has prompted blog PetaPixel to reiterate the little-known quirk of Photoshop's JPEG quality slider that means your images may be better saved at quality 6 than 7. (via PetaPixel) (more)
[/t] Sony DSC HX100V 16.2MP superzoom samples added to studio comparison tool Tue, 30 AugJust Posted: Studio comparison shots from the Sony DSC-HX100V. We've just got hold of Sony's latest superzoom, the 16.2MP HX100 and shot our standard test scene with it. It's built around the latest 1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55mm) back illuminated CMOS sensor and offers a vast 27-810mm equivalent 30x zoom. Being Sony's top-of-the-range superzoom, it features a manual control ring that can be switched between controlling zoom and or manual focus. We also have one of its main rivals - the Panasonic DMC-FZ150 in the studio and will add that to the comparison tool as soon as we can. (more)
[/t] Panasonic shows prototype of twin-lens 3D HD compact camera Wed, 31 AugPanasonic has said it will develop a twin-lens 3D digital camera and has unveiled a prototype at the IFA consumer electronics trade show in Germany. The camera uses twin image-stabilized 4x folded-optics zoom lenses (much like the examples in the company's FP series cameras, we suspect). As well as allowing 3D HD videos to be shot, you can also choose to use one lens for shooting 2D still images while the other lens simultaneously shoots video. Image stabilization will be available whether shooting stills or video and regardless of the number of dimensions being captured. (more)
[/t] Panasonic creates HDC-Z10000 AVCHD 2.0 compatible 3D HD camcorder Wed, 31 AugPanasonic has announced the HDC-Z10000 an integrated twin-lens 2D/3D camcorder that can shoot in the AVCHD 3D/Progressive standard. The camera features a parallax-barrier LCD that allows the 3D footage to be reviewed on-camera without the need for special glasses. Its adoption of the latest AVCHD standard allows it to shoot 1080p60 footage in 2D and up to 1080i60 in 3D, as well as offering 30p and 24p options. The camera essentially combines two of the company's 3MOS camcorders in a single body, offering 30-369 equivalent F1.5-2.8 zooms (32-320mm in 3D mode), stabilized for both 2D and 3D shooting. (more)
[/t] Ricoh updates features of GXR camera modules Wed, 31 AugRicoh has announced a firmware update for its GXR camera units, increasing the available range of features and functions. The updates bring many of the advances made in the recently-announced M-mount module, including improved manual focus magnification. There are also a number of small additions and corrections to other features, including the ability to specify both the ISO limits and minimum shutter speed limit for Auto ISO. The A12 units also gain Bulb and Time exposure modes. The updates can be downloaded from the company's website. (more)
[/t] The Art of HDR photography, part 4 Wed, 31 AugWe've just published the fourth in our series of articles by Uwe Steinmueller of Digital Outback Photo on the art of HDR photography. The fourth chapter (of what will eventually become Uwe's next E-book) covers HDR workflow tools. (more)
[/t] Introducing a new section: Articles Wed, 31 AugWe're really excited that we can take the wraps off what we hope will become a valuable addition to dpreview.com: a dedicated Articles section. This will be home to all the content we produce that doesn't fit under the reviews and news headings. We've also brought in dozens of new writers to fill this section with explanations of photo techniques, accessory reviews, book reviews, photographer interviews and profiles, and much, much more. Today we've added a handful of articles to get things started, as well as porting some of our existing content, but you can expect to see new articles appearing daily from now on. The really exciting news is that the article creation and management system we've built will soon be made available to everyone - check out the story after the link for more detail. (more)
[/t] Fujifilm announces X10 high-end enthusiast compact Thu, 1 SepFujifilm has unveiled the X10 - an enthusiast compact with a F2.0-2.8, 28-112mm-equivalent lens. It's built around a 2/3" (6.6 x 8.8mm) CMOS sensor that uses Fujifilm's EXR pixel arrangement. The 12MP sensor can produce either 12MP images in high resolution mode, under-expose half its pixels to provide 6MP images with greater dynamic range, or combine neighboring pixels for a 6MP high sensitivity mode. The X10 borrows extensively from the styling of the X100 (though its zooming viewfinder means you lose the X100's hybrid viewfinder), to give a camera that sits conceptually between the Olympus XZ-1 and the Canon Powershot G12. (more)
[/t] Samsung releases WB750 18x compact superzoom Thu, 1 SepSamsung has launched the WB750, a compact superzoom with an 18x zoom lens. The camera is built around what the company says is a proprietary 12.5MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor. Despite its slim dimensions, the camera offers a 24-432mm equivalent zoom range with its F3.2-5.8 image stabilized lens. As well as being able to shoot 10 full-resolution frames per second, it can also capture 1080p30 HD video. (more)
[/t] Samsung launches MV800 multiview compact camera Thu, 1 SepSamsung has released the MV800 'MultiView' camera, featuring an LCD panel that flips up to allow more flexible photography. Building on the company's two-LCD 'dualview' idea, the MV800 has a screen that flips all the way up, to allow you to see the 3.0" rear LCD while taking a self-portrait. The 16.2MP CCD-based camera has a 26-130mm equiv. lens to maximise its flexibility. (more)
[/t] Samsung MV800 hands-on first look Thu, 1 SepSamsung has announced the MV800, a 16MP compact camera with an innovative hinged LCD screen that allows you to take self-portraits with ease, as well as prop the camera up at angles which allow easy tabletop photography. We've had an MV800 in the office for a few days now - just long enough to prepare a brief hands-on first look. (more)
[/t] Featured article: Five of the best tripods for under $450 Thu, 1 SepTripods are a must-have for long exposures, low light, macro, landscapes, product photography and more. We've taken a close look at five of the best models for under $450. Check out our tripod-roundup to find out what we discovered. (more)
[/t] Featured article: Mobile imaging apps - an overview Thu, 1 SepWith the Apple iPhone recently becoming the most popular device for uploading photos to Flickr and new photo and imaging apps appearing in app-stores every day, we decided it was time for our first overview of the coolest photography apps for iPhone and Android powered smart phones. (more)
[/t] Samsung announces NX200 mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera Thu, 1 SepSamsung has announced the NX200 rangefinder-style 20.3MP mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera. The latest in the NX series features a sleek new metal body wrapped around the latest APS-C CMOS sensor from the Korean manufacturer. It can shoot at 7 frames per second and capture 1080p30 HD video. (more)
[/t] Just Posted: Samsung NX200 hands-on preview Thu, 1 SepJust Posted: Our Samsung NX200 hands-on preview. We've been using a pre-production NX200 with a series of NX lenses over the past few days and have put together a hands-on preview with image samples gallery. This provides an opportunity to see some of the output from the camera's new 20.3MP sensor and also gives an insight into how Samsung's latest NX body behaves. (more)
[/t] PocketWizards firmware brings additional features Thu, 1 SepWireless flash control company PocketWizard has updated the firmware of its ControlTL system for both Canon and Nikon products. The update works in the MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 radios for both systems. The upgrade adds features such as Hypersync Automation, which attempts to adjust the timing of flash firing in response to shutter speed changes to maximise the sync speed. There is also a Speedcycler mode that, when used with an AC3 Zonecontroller, fires groups of flashes sequentially so that one group is always ready when shooting bursts of images. (more)
[/t] Toshiba announces its first WiFi SDHC card Fri, 2 SepToshiba has announced a WiFi SDHC card that can both transmit and receive data. It's the first card to fully comply with the SD standard, the company says. It also claims lower power consumption than 'other cards with similar functions,' by which you have to assume it means Eye-Fi. The card will be able to share data with compatible cameras, smartphones and WiFi-enabled computers. All cameras with SD slots will be able to broadcast data from the card, and Toshiba says a number of camera makers are considering launching compatible products that will allow data to be received, too. (more)
[/t] Just posted: Survival of the fittest - weatherproof, splashproof, etc. Fri, 2 SepWeatherproof, splashproof, waterproof - these are popular terms in the camera manufacturers' marketing material but what do they actually mean? Rob Spray takes a closer look at environmental protection standards and explains them in this article. We've also included the IP (Ingress Protection) ratings for the cameras in our recent 'Compact Waterproof' group test. (more)
[/t] Just posted: IFA 2011 DSLR video show report from EOSHD Fri, 2 SepJust posted: EOSHD's show report on the latest developments in DSLR video from IFA. The IFA (Internationale Funkausstellung) trade show, currently going on in Berlin, is the world's largest for consumer electronics and home appliances. EOSHD's Andrew Reid went along to hunt down the big news in DSLR HD video. (more)
[/t] Just posted: Hands-on video of the Samsung NX200 Fri, 2 SepJust Posted: Samsung NX200 hands-on video. We've written a full preview of the NX200 but there are times when it's easier to show than tell. With that in mind, here's our first hands-on video, which we hope will add a new dimension to our coverage. These won't replace our written content but will, we hope, add something extra. Let us know what you think. (more)
[/t] Samyang 7.5mm F3.5 fish-eye for Micro Four Thirds coming soon Mon, 5 SepThe European distributor of Korean lens maker Samyang has announced the price and availability of its 7.5mm fish-eye lens for Micro Four Thirds. The Samyang 7.5mm 1:3.5 UMC Fish-eye MFT will be available from the middle of September at a recommended selling price of €299. The lens offers a 180° diagonal field-of-view and will be available in black and silver. The company says it will be the first in a range of lenses designed specifically for the Micro Four Thirds system. (more)
[/t] DxO Labs releases FilmPack3 film simulation software Tue, 6 SepDxO has released FilmPack 3, the third version of its sliver halide simulation processing software. The latest version, announced in June, now includes the ability to mimic up to 60 famous black and white, and color films, based on calibration from professional prints, giving what the company claims is the most precise film simulation on the market. Version 3 adds new film looks and color filters. It also brings a greater degree of control, including HSL sliders, a channel mixer for optimizing Black and White conversions and, at customer request, the ability to add vignetting. The software is available in two versions, 'Essentials' and 'Expert,' which offer different levels of function, with introductory pricing starting at $49/€49/£49 for the Essentials version. (more)
[/t] Epson releases NX430 'Small-in-One' combined printer, scanner and copier Tue, 6 SepEpson has announced the Stylus NX430 Small-in-One, a compact, wireless printer, scanner and copier. Without the print tray extended, the unit has a footprint of 39 x 30 cm (15.4 x 11.8"). It is able to scan at 2400 dpi and print at 5760 x 1440 dpi. It can print at a rate of 6.2 ppm for mono prints and 3.2 ppm in color (ISO standard ppm). (more)
[/t] Just Posted: Sigma SD1 preview Raw and JPEG samples Tue, 6 SepJust posted: JPEG and Raw samples from the Sigma SD1. We've been using a production Sigma SD1 for a little while now, and although we have only just started our studio testing, we want to share some of our early 'real world' samples with you. In this gallery you will find images of a broad variety of subjects, shot at different ISO settings, in both raw and JPEG mode (albeit using, for now, a very limited range of lenses). We have converted the raw files using Sigma's Photo Pro 5.0 software 'to taste', and performed some minor tweaking of the resultant TIFF files in Adobe Camera Raw. (more)
[/t] Featured article: The what and why of wildlife macro photography Tue, 6 SepIn this first part of a series on macro photography, nature photographer Erez Marom explains what macro photography means to him and what rules he follows when out shooting in the wild. (more)
[/t] Panasonic DMC-FZ150 samples added to studio comparison tool Tue, 6 SepJust Posted: Studio comparison shots from the Panasonic DMC-FZ150 superzoom. We've had a DMC-FZ150 in our studio for a few days now and, as promised, have shot our standard test scene with it. The FZ150 replaces the FZ100 and incorporates a lower-resolution 12MP CMOS sensor that the company says will outperform its predecessor's 14MP chip. Like the FZ100 the FZ150 records Raw images, which we've also included in our studio comparison tool. (more)
[/t] Featured article: Composition - Left of center Wed, 7 SepIn this first installment of the Photo Tip series, Amadou Diallo explains how to create more dynamic compositions by placing your subject away from the center of the frame. (more)
[/t] Just Posted: Panasonic DMC-FH7 compact camera review Wed, 7 SepJust posted: Our review of the Panasonic DMC-FH7. It's the first of a new style of short review, that we'll use to allow us to review more compact cameras, between the big large-sensor-camera reviews. The Panasonic FH7 is a 4x (28-112mm equiv.) zoom compact with a 16MP CCD sensor. Impressively for the price, it includes a customizable touch-screen and optical image stabilization. (more)
[/t]| Adobe announces Carousel - cloud-based image service Wed, 7 SepAdobe has announced a cloud-based storage, editing and browsing service based around a series of apps called Carousel. Initially available for iPad, iPhone, iPod touch and Mac OS, the apps allow users to import their photo libraries, which are then available from any other device running Carousel. Any edits or deletions will also automatically be reflected on the other devices, avoiding storage limitations of the device being used. A series of image enhancement tools and pre-defined 'looks' can be applied. Access to the apps will initially cost $59.99/year or $5.99/month, rising to $99.99/year after an introductory period. Support for Windows and other devices, including Android, will follow in early 2012. (more)[/t] |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
