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Nikon Further Refines DX And FX Lenses
Staff  |  Oct 12, 2009

Nikon announced the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II and the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II, two telephoto zoom lenses further refined to provide photographers with exceptional optics for outstanding image clarity and sharpness, both featuring Vibration Reduction (VR II) image stabilization. The 18-200mm, Nikon’s best-selling premium high-ratio zoom ever, offers enthusiasts excellent versatility. The 70-200mm f/2.8, now benefiting from Nikon's exclusive Nano Crystal Coat, retains its status as a preeminent choice for discerning professionals in a multitude of shooting disciplines.  

Both of these lenses use Nikon’s VR II image stabilization technology, which is engineered specifically for, and optimized to, function most effectively for each lens design to substantially reduce camera shake-related image blur.  VR II allows photographers to shoot handheld at as many as four shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible, better assuring dramatically sharper images—even in challenging lighting conditions. Two VR modes are available: “Normal” mode, ideal for everyday use and panning a subject; and “Active” mode, for use in instances where more constant vibration (i.e. camera shake) is present, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle. 

The “go-to” lens of demanding professionals and serious enthusiasts, the 70-200mm f/2.8 is one of the most useful and sought after high-performance lenses for sports, wildlife, portrait, travel and news photographers. Nikon has further refined the lens, with an enhanced optical formula featuring seven extra low dispersion (ED) glass elements. These elements provide the ultimate in rendering characteristics to capture vibrant, high resolution images with optimal contrast. Image quality is further enhanced by Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat, which reduces instances of lens flare and ghosting, elevating optical performance, even in tricky conditions such as those found in professional sports settings and stage events.

Designed to deliver the pinnacle of image quality in a wide variety of conditions, the new 70-200mm VR II lens also includes a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast, quiet autofocusing. The SWM takes full advantage of 3D tracking autofocus (AF) systems, such as those found on the FX-format D3X, D3 and D700 D-SLR cameras. Three focus modes are available - M, A/M and M/A - for automatically focusing, manually focusing or fine tuning AF performance to best suit the photographers’ needs. Nine rounded diaphragm blades contribute to a more attractive bokeh, allowing photographers create soft and more naturally separated backgrounds that better highlight the subject.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm, the next generation of Nikon’s all-time best-selling premium high-ratio zoom, combines an 11X zoom range with VR II to provide DX-format enthusiasts with an extremely versatile zoom range in a compact form-factor. Nikon enhanced construction to include a zoom lock switch, to allow photographers to secure the lens barrel at its minimum length, eliminating the natural gravitational effect that can draw the barrel downward during transport. The inclusion of Nikon’s exclusive Super Integrated Coating (SIC) reduces instances of ghosting or flaring. Whether shooting artistic landscapes or vacation snapshots, this lens provides fast and quiet AF operation with the help of Nikon’s SWM technology.

Designed to be a one-lens solution and weighing in at a scant 19.9 ounces and measuring only 3.8 inches in length, this lens provides an extraordinary (35mm equivalent) picture angle of 27-300mm when mounted on any Nikon DX-format camera such as the new D300s or D3000 D-SLR cameras. Additionally, the optical formula contains two ED glass elements and three aspherical lenses to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion. The resulting images exhibit extreme sharpness, extraordinarily vibrant color and crisp contrast.

Price and Availability
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers beginning September 2009 at an estimated selling price of $849.95. The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers beginning November 2009 at an estimated selling price of $2399.95.  For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

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Nikon D300s DX-Format D-SLR
Staff  |  Oct 09, 2009

Nikon announced the D300s digital SLR, combining professional-level performance with agility and enhanced D-Movie capabilities to deliver a new benchmark for creative versatility.  Engineered to leverage proven Nikon technologies, including a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and 51-point autofocus system; the addition of HD video capture; and faster 7 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting, the Nikon D300s balances form factor, performance, versatility and reliability for serious photo enthusiasts and professionals.

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Harman Technology To Develop New Fine Art Paper, Ideal For Lith Printing
Staff  |  Oct 09, 2009

In line with its steadfast commitment to supporting all forms of analog photography, leading photo-imaging manufacturer, HARMAN Technology Limited is making advances in the development of a new paper which it believes will be every creative printer’s dream. The new product, which will be offered under the manufacturer’s ILFORD PHOTO black and white brand, will be variable grade, double weight, fiber based and ideal for lith printing and toning.

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New ADOX MCC 110 B&W Paper Successor to Agfa Classic
Staff  |  Oct 07, 2009

Freestyle Photographic Supplies, in partnership with Fotoimpex, Germany, announces the arrival of a long-awaited photographic paper, the new ADOX Premium MCC 110 variable-contrast fiber-based paper. Designed to be the replacement for the late Agfa Classic 111 paper, ADOX Premium MCC 110 uses the same emulsion as the original Agfa, but on a neutral white paper base instead of the old warm base. Other than the whiter base, everything else about MCC 110 is exactly the same as Agfa Classic. ADOX Premium MCC 110 also reacts well to warm and cold-tone developers with impressive tonal shifts, and is excellent for lith printing.

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ExpressDigital Announces Darkroom Assembly Edition Update
Staff  |  Oct 07, 2009

ExpressDigital announces a re-release of DARKROOM Assembly Edition, software designed for school and team photographers that can be purchased outright, is plug-in free, completely manages nine different workflow scenarios, features greenscreen, online storefronts and lab connection, and that interacts seamlessly with cameras, work stations, barcode scanners, and digital media burners all while automating business functions. To commemorate this innovation, ExpressDigital further reveals an agreement with Desktop Darkroom to serve as a dedicated support and service arm available to provide free comprehensive online training and one-year phone support --as well as $1,300 in free software and templates through August.

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PhotoHistory Symposium Features World's First Digital Camera
Staff  |  Oct 05, 2009

The Photographic Historical Society, founded in 1966, is the oldest such group in the world. It will sponsor PhotoHistory XIV in Rochester, NY on Oct. 16-18, 2009.

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Benro Tripods Available in the United States
Staff  |  Oct 02, 2009

Benro, who has been manufacturing tripods for more than 10 years (and has the #1 market share in their home country of China), offers high quality tripods, monopods and heads that are built to professional standards at an extraordinary value. Benro is distributed in the U.S. by Westchester, NY based MAC Group. “We are very proud to add Benro to our product mix,” states Jeff Karp, Benro Product Marketing Manager. “The high quality, innovative designs and exceptional value make Benro the perfect choice for demanding photographers on a budget.”

Benro has the technology and manufacturing capabilities to build products made of carbon fiber (8 layers for ultimate stability), aluminum (top performance at an economical price) and magnesium (lighter than aluminum, yet stronger) – materials that provide outstanding performance and reliability -- at economical prices. Benro is the only company that makes its own carbon fiber tubing.

An excellent example of Benro’s design capabilities is their new "Quick Lock" Leg System that sets the new standard in flip lock technology. Its rugged construction, reliability and ease of operation elevates leg locking systems to a new level.

One of the most unique tripods in Benro’s lineup is the patented Travel Angel, available in both carbon fiber and aluminum. This is an easy-to-carry, ultra-compact tripod that photographers will take with them everywhere they go. What good is a tripod if you leave it home because it’s too big or heavy? Travel Angel’s unique 180 degree fold over design allows them to be folded into a compact package (up to 20% smaller than conventionally designed tripods) that can easily fit into backpacks or luggage. However, when quick setup, excellent maximum height and a rigid, stable support are needed, Benro Travel Angels are outstanding performers. All kits include a BH-Series single action or B-Series dual action ballhead that matches the size of the tripod.

In addition to tripods and monopods, Benro builds a full range of heads. Whether you select a Benro single action or dual action ballhead or 3-Way panhead, you’ll see the quality that goes into all Benro products the minute you pick them up. Benro tripod heads are produced using the latest in precision machining and manufacturing technology to ensure smooth and secure operation. The patented, dual locking, dovetailed Quick Release Plates or Arca Swiss style Quick Release Plates allow fast and secure camera mounting and dismounting without having to worry about accidentally unseating the camera.

To help you decide on the right equipment for your shooting situations, Benro provides a series of web-based videos that show the features and benefits of Benro products. Choose from “Why you need a tripod” (even with image stabilization and high ISO cameras, the best results happen with a tripod) to “Selecting the perfect tripod head” to “Benro Travel Angel” and more.

To see the complete selection of Benro products, visit www.Benro.com.

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Compact Camera NewsCompact Camera ReviewsNews
The Big X (Zoom Ratio) Factor; Five Superzoom Digicams
Ron Eggers  |  Oct 01, 2009

Some of the most interesting new cameras are extended zoom models, lightweight units that have extremely long-range zoom lenses that make it possible to use a small camera to capture a distant subject. Extended zooms fall into two broad categories: compact models with 10- to 12-megapixel sensors and zoom ranges around 10-12x, which can fit into a pocket or purse, and slightly larger cameras...

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DSLR NewsDSLR ReviewsNews
Sony’s Alpha A330 D-SLR; Stepping Up Into A More Creative Realm
George Schaub  |  Oct 01, 2009

Sony is not shy about who this new D-SLR is designed for—those seeking to step up from point-and-shoot digicams into the land of interchangeable lenses and easy application of creative controls.

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WD Ships Industry's First 1 TB Mobile Hard Drive
Staff  |  Sep 30, 2009

WD (NYSE: WDC) announced two new mobile hard drives that reach new capacity extremes. The highlight is a one terabyte model -- the industry's highest-capacity 2.5-inch drive available. Industry-leading 333 GB-per-platter technology enables the new WD Scorpio® Blue(TM) SATA 2.5-inch hard drives to offer mobile storage device and notebook users an enormous 1 TB capacity. A 750 GB WD Scorpio Blue model also will be available.

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WD Introduces Educational Creative Masters Program Featuring World-Class Artists
Staff  |  Sep 28, 2009

WD (NYSE: WDC) is launching the WD's new Creative Masters Program, an educational program that will share the knowledge and experience of three world-class artists and emphasize the critical importance of safely storing priceless files and backing up. WD's Creative Masters Program will offer a colorful, educational and inspirational look at artistry and the creative workflow as presented through the eyes and minds of three of the world's most respected photographers -- Bruce Dorn, Colin Finlay and Peter Read Miller.

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Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR Digital Camera
Staff  |  Sep 25, 2009

FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. has unveiled the FinePix S200EXR digital camera, its most advanced SLR-styled camera to date. Combining the pin-sharp 14.3x Fujinon optical zoom lens (30.5mm-436mm equivalent) so popular in its predecessor, the award-winning FinePix S100FS, with Fujifilm’s latest 12-MegaPixel Super CCD EXR sensor, the FinePix S200EXR is aimed at top-end camera enthusiasts looking for excellent picture quality without the hassle, bulk and expense of a D-SLR system.

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AsukaBook USA Announces New Products
Staff  |  Sep 23, 2009

AsukaBook USA announces a new album choice, a new book size available in all lines and faster turnaround time on orders for professional photographers and designers looking to offer their clients high quality products and faster than ever service. AsukaBook USA, a division of Kubota Photo Design Inc., now has a total of six different book lines available from which to choose.

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PENTAX K-x
Staff  |  Sep 21, 2009

Pentax Imaging Company redefines the entry-level digital SLR category with the introduction of the K-x digital SLR.  This latest Pentax camera offers high-end features including Live View and HD video.  The K-x will be available in a choice of white or black, as well as special, limited edition red and navy. 

Priced at $599.95 USD (for body with DA L 18-55mm lens), the extremely compact and lightweight Pentax K-x features a one-handed shooting design and simple, easy-to-use operation, the K-x is perfect for users stepping up from a point and shoot digital camera to their first digital SLR.

The Pentax K-x offers photographic performance that challenges higher class DSLR models and offers several features that set this camera apart in the entry-level category:

  • High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image and video capture up to 4 stops max.
  • Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).
  • Widescreen HD video capture in full 720p resolution (1280x720) at 24 FPS cinematic frame rate, using any Pentax 35mm lens.
  • Creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images, while offering the ability to explore artistic freedom through unique special effects.
  • True High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and midrange detail.
  • Fast 4.7 FPS capture speed and 1/6000 second maximum shutter speeds are possible with the Pentax PRIME II image processing engine.
  • Powerful automatic modes, including Pentax Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation, while helping new photographers learn DSLR photography.
  • Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects.
  • Captures up to 1900 shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries (also compatible with AA NiMH rechargeable and alkaline batteries).

Along with the K-x, Pentax announced the smc Pentax DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED super-telephoto zoom lens.  This lens will be exclusive to a K-x Twin Lens Kit package consisting of a K-x body, this new lens and the smc Pentax DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 lens.  The lightweight design of this
zoom lens offers the exceptional optical performance found in all Pentax lenses for super-telephoto photography with the K-x and other Pentax digital SLR camera bodies.

The Pentax  K-x (in black and white) will ship in October 2009 in three configurations: options: 

  • K-x single lens kit with body and an smc Pentax DA L 18-55mm lens for USD $649.95.
  • K-x twin lens kit for $749.95 including a K-x body, the smc Pentax DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc Pentax DA L 50-200mm zoom lens.
  • K-x twin lens kit for $849.95 including a K-x body, the smc Pentax DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc Pentax DA L 55-300mm zoom lens.

www.Pentax.com

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Tenba Mixx Bags: Lightweight and Handy
Staff  |  Sep 18, 2009

Tenba has launched their first major enthusiast/prosumer collection called Mixx. This new collection comprises a broad range of bags—from small pouches and top load bags for point and shoot cameras and single SLR setups, to shoulder bags and a daypack to fit larger camera systems. Mixx is both colorfully styled and incredibly lightweight, and all bags maintain Tenba’s dedication to professional quality construction, materials and hardware.

Each Mixx product is lighter weight at its size and capacity than any similar product Tenba has ever offered. This was a major goal from the beginning of the collection design. The materials and hardware used in each bag meet the “no compromise” level that has continued to be Tenba’s signature, including YKK zippers and Duraflex clips. Top Loads, Shoulder Bags and the Daypack all include Tenba’s exclusive WeatherWrap, the fastest deploying all-weather cover around.

The Mixx collection includes three pouch sizes, the largest of which was designed to be a perfect fit for the Canon G9 and G10. For an SLR with a single lens there are two sizes of Top Load bags that can be use with the supplied shoulder strap or attached to a belt. Small and large sized Shoulder Bags fit cameras with extra lenses, flash and accessories, And finally, the Daypack is a comfortable and supportive way to carry both a camera system and the other items you might need during a full day of shooting, like food, an umbrella and a jacket.

Mixx products range in (manufacturer’s suggested) retail price from $11.95 to $74.95. For more information, visit Tenba.com

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