News

PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the PENTAX K100D, which combines 6.1 effective
megapixels with a host of advanced technologies including a Shake Reduction
(SR) system to deliver high-quality digital SLR photography and user-friendly
operation to all levels of photographers. The PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction
(SR) system in the K100D effectively offers a two-stop advantage for sharp,
blur-free images even under difficult shooting conditions, such as using a telephoto
lens or shooting in low light without a flash.



The SR mechanism is designed to minimize camera shake by oscillating the CCD
image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed using magnetic force,
while adjusting the speed of oscillation in proportion to the amount of camera
shake detected by a built-in sensor. As a result, the system does not require
special anti-shake lenses and can be used with almost all existing PENTAX interchangeable
lenses.



Also announced is the PENTAX K110D, an entry-level digital SLR camera, which
has all of the features of the K100D with the exception of Shake Reduction.
Both models reflect a new digital SLR naming system that references the reverse
compatibility that each body has with the legacy of PENTAX K-mount lenses. The
PENTAX K100D will ship along with the smc 18-55mm lens in July 2006 for $699.95
US, while the PENTAX K110D will ship along with the smc 18-55mm lens in August
2006 for $599.95 US.



Along with the two new SLR models, PENTAX announced the smc PENTAX DA 21mm F3.2
AL Limited interchangeable wide-angle lens. Previewed at PMA 2006 in Orlando,
the lens features a versatile angle of view and an ultra-thin, pancake design
that offers go-anywhere portability that is ideal for casual, day-to-day snapshot
photography. The latest lens inherits all the attributes of the acclaimed PENTAX
Limited lens series including high-quality image reproduction, distinctive visual
description, and high-grade lens-barrel finish. The smc PENTAX DA 21mm F3.2
AL Limited lens will ship in July 2006 for $549.95.



www.pentax.com

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Lexar Media, Inc., a world leader in advanced digital media technologies, today
announced that Lexar LockTight Professional CompactFlash memory cards, ideal
for security-conscious photographers worldwide, have been recognized by the
Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) as the "Best Imaging Storage
Media" introduced in Europe in the past 12 months. The award-winning system
employs a unique functionality for protecting stored data when used in conjunction
with a camera that supports the system and, as a result, is a valuable tool
for photographers in fields such as forensic photography, scientific research,
military, law enforcement and mass media.

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ACD Systems International Inc.has 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.

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Boasting more than 2,000 cubic inches of possible storage space, the Pelican
1440 features a unique top loading design that gives immediate, easy access
to its contents. Standard features include stainless steel, ball-bearing, polyurethane
wheels; an extra-long, telescoping, metal handle for easy transport; and rubberized
top and side grips for maximum comfort. The case also features stainless steel
reinforced padlock protectors for added defense against cutting and theft.

...

Freestyle Photographic Supplies, in its continuing efforts to showcase the works
of black-and-white photographic masters, brings Mr. Gil Garcetti's Frozen
Music to its Gallery at the Creative Center for Photography. With his stunningly
powerful images--some as large as four by six feet--Mr. Garcetti captures
the powerful aesthetic of Frank O. Gehry's architectural masterpiece, the
Walt Disney Concert Hall.



Viewers are treated to a unique insider's look at this breathtaking building
as it was brought to life in downtown Los Angeles, California. With this show,
Mr. Garcetti, who retired as the Los Angeles County District Attorney in 2000,
establishes himself as a serious photographic talent. The opening reception is
from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on May 11, 2006 at Freestyle's Creative Center for
Photography Gallery, 5124 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, California.



· Exhibition Dates: May 11 -- June 16, 2006.



· Reception and Book Signing. Meet Mr. Garcetti as we unveil his stunning
exhibition on Thursday, May 11, 2006 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. No reservations required.
Admission is Free.



· Exhibit Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00--6:00. Sat 9:30--4:30,
Sun. 10:30--4:30



Freestyle Photographic Supplies, Freestyle's Creative Center for Photography,
and the Freestyle Advisory Board of Photographic Professionals work closely to
promote the advancement of fine-art photography through exhibits, lectures, workshops
and innovative photographic products.



Established in 1946, Freestyle Photographic Supplies is a leading retail, mail
order and internet provider of photographic supplies and equipment nationwide.
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The Plugin Site (www.thepluginsite.com)
has released the MacOS X version of LightMachine, a plugin for performing all
kinds of light adjustments in photos.
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