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Hanson Fong and John Woodward for a Day of Learning

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Sony is making it easy for first-time digital SLR buyers to step up from point-and-shoot digital still cameras with the introduction today of three new easy-to-use α (alpha) cameras (models DSLR-A380, DSLR-A330 and DSLR-A230), four new lenses, a flash and accessories.

The new cameras are designed to overcome challenges faced by many customers taking their first steps in DSLR photography. Without compromising performance and versatility, the new models are smaller, lighter, easier to use and offer innovative expansion options not found in other systems.

The 10.2 megapixel α230 camera is the lightest, most compact alpha DSLR camera body ever at 15.9 ounces. The 10.2 megapixel α330 and the 14.2 megapixel α380 cameras are also smaller and lighter than their predecessor models (the DSLR-A300 and DSLR-A350, respectively). These cameras are also more compact and feature an intuitive control layout that allows for easy single-handed operation.

SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization is built into each camera body, so every α-mount lens benefits from the ability to minimize blur due to camera shake.

Quick AF Live View System
Both the α380 and α330 cameras offer Sony’s Quick Autofocus (AF) Live View technology, so you can frame photos on the camera’s LCD screen as well as in the optical viewfinder.  Through the use of a dedicated image sensor, Quick AF Live View maintains the rapid response of a DSLR, while avoiding the focus delay common to other live view systems.

The new cameras feature a 2.7-inch (diagonally) Clear Photo LCD™ screen that is easy to view even in bright sunlight. Additionally, the LCD on the α380 and α330 models can be tilted up or down, making it easy to frame your subject from high or low positions, otherwise difficult to see using an eye-level viewfinder.  The range of adjustment has been increased from their predecessors, making it even easier to get shots from difficult angles.

By combining Quick AF Live View and an adjustable LCD, users can frame the scene without holding the camera in front of their face, allowing parents, for example, to maintain eye-contact when photographing their children for more natural expressions.

An HDMI terminal gives you the option of connecting your camera to a compatible HDTV and playing back your images in high definition quality (HDMI cable required, sold separately). Additionally, BRAVIA Sync works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs to let you control camera playback using the television’s remote (HDMI cable and BRAVIA Sync capable HDTV required, sold separately).

The new cameras include dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC media (sold separately).

The α380, α330 and α230 models are Sony’s first DSLR cameras to feature a graphical user interface (GUI) with built-in on-screen Help Guide.

The Help Guide offers clear, concise explanations of various modes and settings, while the Graphic Display helps you understand the relationship between aperture and shutter speed, as well as the effect each has on photographic results.

The new Sony cameras come in camera-and-lens packages. In addition to the two new standard zoom and telephoto lenses that are offered with the camera bodies, the company introduced new portrait and macro lenses. These purpose-built lenses make it much easier to obtain professional-looking, creative results. 

Optimized for use with APS-C sized image sensors, these lenses feature a Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) that enables in-lens auto focus (AF) drive for smooth, quiet operation, and high optical performance in a compact size.

The DT 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens (model SAL-1855) incorporates aspherical and Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements to provide an all purpose lens with outstanding image quality.  The DT 55-200mm F/4-5.6 telephoto zoom lens (model SAL-55200/2) features an ED glass element and helps bring distant subjects closer, ideal for capturing sports. Both the SAL-1855 and SAL-55200 lenses are available separately, or packaged as kits with the new cameras.

To make the benefits of portrait and macro photography easier and more accessible, Sony is introducing a DT 50mm F/1.8 portrait lens (model SAL-50F18) and DT 30mm F/2.8 (model SAL-30M28) macro lens.  The wide aperture SAL-50F18 lens helps users capture beautiful portraits with gently defocused backgrounds while the SAL-30M28 macro lens captures intricate close-ups. Both techniques are difficult to achieve with standard lenses. 

To help users take better shots with flash, Sony offers an affordable, compact external flash unit (model HVL-F20AM) that is simple to operate. Unlike a camera’s built-in flash, this external flash provides higher output (Guide Number 20), and enables users to bounce light off the ceiling to eliminate harsh shadows and achieve more even illumination when shooting indoors.

Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders will begin on May 18, 2009 at www.sonystyle.com/retail and at selected retailers nationwide. The cameras and a range of accessories will be available in July at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), at military base exchanges and at authorized dealers nationwide.

The α380L, α330L and α230L will cost about $850, $650 and $550, respectively. The L series one-lens kit comes with the SAL-1855 standard zoom lens.

The α380Y, α330Y and α230Y will cost about $1050, $850 and $750, respectively. The Y series two-lens kit comes with both the SAL-1855 standard zoom and SAL-55200 telephoto zoom lenses.

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Bogen Imaging announced the Gitzo 5 Star Summer Tour. Showcasing the latest technologies and innovations from Gitzo, including the new Ocean Traveler and Vintage Collection tripods, the 5 Star Summer Tour will take place from July to October with 17 scheduled stops at the country’s leading photo specialty dealers. Visit (http://www.bogenimaging.us/gitzosummertour/) to see the full Gitzo 5 Star Summer Tour schedule and dealer locations.

The Gitzo 5 Star Summer Tour is free of charge and open to all consumers interested in learning about the latest Gitzo support products and accessories. Consumers who stop by participating dealers on their scheduled tour date will have the opportunity to meet a Bogen Imaging representative, test-drive the newest Gitzo products, as well as have the chance to take advantage of exclusive, tour date only deals.

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Bogen Imaging announces a free webinar titled “Adventure Sports Photography: Round Table with Adventure Photographer Michael Clark.”  Part of the company’s Bogen Café series of free instructional webinars, the seminar will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EDT, on Friday, July 17th.

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Panasonic announced pricing for the highly-anticipated LUMIX DMC-GH1, the new Micro Four Thirds digital camera with Full-High Definition (HD) video recording ability. The camera will be available in early June for a suggested retail price of $1499.95.  The LUMIX DMC-GH1 includes the LUMIX G VARIO 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens as part of the kit.  The new lens, designed to support HD movie recording, features a silent motor and continuous auto focusing (AF) capability – a differentiator from traditional DSLRs.  

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Tamron USA, Inc. announced the re-launch of its website designed to make the navigation of its wealth of learning materials and access to product information easier for new and returning visitors.

The most popular section of the website after the top-selling product pages is Tamron’s Learning Center.

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5 Minute Photo announced today that it will be holding a training seminar at the Grand Plaza Hotel in Branson, MO on July 3, 2009.  This one day training seminar will be jammed packed with information on how to be successful doing Onsite Event Photography Viewing and Printing, along with technical training on how to get the most out of today’s computers, computer networks and the latest digital technologies.

The seminar will be led by David Whitson, a professional software developer and onsite event photography specialist. The seminar will be covering many aspects of onsite event photography including: new business opportunities, growth & trends, advantages using today’s technology over traditional methods, computer hardware, software, networks and internet tools, terminology, business & event planning, marketing and how to schedule events.  Hands-on training using 5 Minute Photo’s Version 5.3 Loader/Viewer onsite event photography software will also be provided.

"Despite the recent economic turndown in our country, the onsite event photography business is already seeing a rapid increase in the demand for photographers that offer onsite event photography viewing and printing” said David Whitson, co-founder of 5 Minute Photo. "This seminar will teach you how to take advantage of this outstanding business opportunity and learn how to increase the WOW factor and instant gratification customers are seeking and demanding."

Registration for this seminar is limited and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis.  The complete line of 5 Minute Photo’s products and services can be found on their web site at www.5MinutePhoto.com

About 5 Minute Photo:
5 Minute Photo is a leading online company specializing in products and services for the onsite event photography industry.  Their services and products include onsite event photography software, training, “How To” booklets, custom turnkey computer systems & components, online poster printing services and other onsite event photography related items.   David Whitson’s professional career includes over 30 years experience as a software solution developer, Microsoft® Certified System Engineer, Microsoft Certified Solution Developer, project manager and over 5 years experience in the onsite event photography business.

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