ASMP Supports Major Initiatives for Photographers

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE) -- The American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) has announced its support for major initiatives that fund the education and advocacy of student and emerging photographers, and the growth and development of established photographers. These initiatives include the following:

• Young Photographers Alliance (YPA) as a Major Founding Sponsor to set up mentoring and internship programs for student and emerging photographers;
• Eddie Adams Workshop, Barnstorm, in which 100 photography students participate in an intense four-day gathering of top photojournalism professionals;
• Farnsworth Art Museum exhibitions of Arnold Newman’s work to develop an understanding and appreciation for photographic portraiture;
• W. Eugene Smith Memorial Fund award to a photojournalist of exceptional talent, integrity and dedication.

Support of these projects was made possible through funds received by ASMP from the Authors Coalition of America (ACA), the organization which distributes money designated for use solely in industry education and advocacy collected for copying non-title-specific works abroad. YPA sponsorship funds were a special designation from The ASMP Foundation, whose mission is to support the educational purposes and activities of the Society.

According to Executive Director Eugene Mopsik, “Among ASMP’s priorities is the encouragement and assistance we can provide to new photographers as they develop professionally, as well as our support for established photographers in their growth as visual artists. The Authors Coalition money we have received allows us to take an active role in the funding of these important programs which provide critical growth opportunities for photographers. ”

Jerry Tavin, YPA’s Founder and President, said, “We thank ASMP for its outstanding support which will provide great opportunities for our young photographers to acquire skills which allow them to embark on successful and rewarding long-term careers.”

ASMP is also a sponsor of the Arnold Newman Prize for “New Directions in Photographic Portraiture,” which is underwritten by the Arnold and Augusta Newman Foundation. It was recently announced that Brooklyn-based Emily Schiffer has been selected as the 2010 winner who will receive a cash award and an August 2010 exhibition at the Farnsworth Art Museum.

Founded in 1944, ASMP is the leader in promoting photographers’ rights, providing education in better business practices, producing business publications for photographers, and helping to connect purchasers with professional photographers. ASMP has 39 chapters across the country and its members include many of the world’s foremost photographers.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Adobe Ships Creative Suite 5

Breakthrough Interactive Design Tools and Innovative Online Services Maximize Impact of Creative Content and Digital Marketing Campaigns

SAN JOSE, Calif., — April 30, 2010 — Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced the availability of the Adobe® Creative Suite® 5 product family, the highly-anticipated release of the industry-leading design and development software for virtually every creative workflow. With more than 250 new product features, the Creative Suite 5 product line brings exciting full-version upgrades of flagship creative tools and workflow enhancements to designers and developers — enabling the creation, delivery and optimization of content across media for greater impact and results.

The Adobe CS5 product family is powering the creation of content and applications for the upcoming releases of Flash® Player 10.1 and Adobe AIR® 2, which are optimized for high performance on mobile screens and designed to take advantage of native device capabilities for a richer, more immersive user experience. Featuring integration with online content and digital marketing measurement and optimization capabilities for the first time, Creative Suite 5 products include access to signature Omniture® technologies, to capture, store and analyze information generated by websites and other sources. Adobe Creative Suite 5 products also integrate with Adobe CS Live*, a set of five innovative online services that accelerate key aspects of the creative workflow and enable designers to focus on creating their best work (CS Live services are complimentary for a limited time).

The Creative Suite 5 line-up includes five new versions: Creative Suite 5 Master Collection, Creative Suite 5 Design Premium, Creative Suite 5 Web Premium, Creative Suite 5 Production Premium, Creative Suite 5 Design Standard, as well as 15 point products and associated technologies. Creative Suite now includes a brand-new component, Adobe Flash® Catalyst™, a professional interaction design tool that allows designers to rapidly create expressive Web application interfaces and design interaction without writing code.

“We’ve seen from early customer reaction that Creative Suite 5 continues to inspire the design and developer world by combining time-saving workflow and productivity features with astonishing new capabilities, such as Content-Aware Fill in Photoshop CS5, that really push the creative envelope,” said John Loiacono, senior vice president of Creative Solutions at Adobe. “Whatever the media, CS5 is ensuring that publishers and creatives can deliver stand-out work and build great businesses around their unique digital assets and content.”

Also available as part of the Creative Suite 5 product family, sold separately or in one of the five Creative Suite editions, are new versions of the Adobe Creative Suite tools, including Photoshop® CS5, Illustrator® CS5, InDesign® CS5, Flash Catalyst CS5, Flash CS5 Professional, Dreamweaver® CS5, Adobe® Premiere® Pro CS5, After Effects® CS5 and more.

The Creative Suite 5 products offer more than 250 new features that embrace interactivity, enhance performance and maximize the impact of creative content and digital marketing campaigns. InDesign CS5 powers the transition to digital publishing with new interactive documents and enhanced electronic reader device support. Image creation and editing get a boost with Truer Edge technology in Photoshop CS5, which offers better edge detecting technology and masking results in less time. Photoshop CS5 also includes the ability to remove an image element and immediately replace the missing pixels with Content-Aware Fill. New stroke options allow Adobe Illustrator CS5 users to create strokes of variable widths and precisely adjust the width at any point along the stroke. New Text Layout Framework in Flash Professional CS5 provides professional-level typography capabilities with functions like kerning, ligatures, tracking, leading, threaded text block and multiple columns. In addition, Dreamweaver CS5 now supports popular content management systems Drupal, Joomla! and WordPress, allowing designers to get accurate views of dynamic Web content from within the product.

Performance improvements abound in the Creative Suite 5 product line with engineering breakthroughs, including native 64-bit support on both Mac and Windows® in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects, that allows users to work more fluidly on high-resolution projects. The much anticipated NVIDIA® GPU-accelerated Adobe Mercury Playback Engine allows Adobe Premiere Pro CS5 users to open projects faster, refine effects-rich HD sequences in real time and play back complex projects without rendering. The revolutionary timesaving Roto Brush tool in After Effects helps users isolate moving foreground elements in a fraction of the normal time.

Accelerate Creative Workflows with Adobe CS Live
Adobe Creative Suite 5 products integrate with Adobe CS Live*, a set of five online services that accelerate key aspects of the creative workflow and enable designers to focus on creating their best work. CS Live online services are complimentary for a limited time and currently include: Adobe BrowserLab, Adobe CS Review, Acrobat.com, Adobe Story and SiteCatalyst® NetAverages™ from Omniture. Adobe CS Review enables online design reviews from directly in Creative Suite 5 applications, while Adobe BrowserLab is an indispensable tool for testing website content across different browsers and operating systems. NetAverages provides Web usage data that helps reduce the guesswork early in the creative process when designing for Web and mobile. Adobe Story is a collaborative scriptwriting tool that improves production and post-production workflows in CS5 Production Premium. Access to Acrobat.com services, such as Adobe ConnectNow Web conferencing, is also included to enhance discussion and information exchange with colleagues and clients around the globe.

Create and Deliver to More Mobile Platforms
Using Flash Professional CS5, designers and developers can create, test and deliver Web content across a wide range of mobile platforms and devices such as smartphones, tablets, netbooks and other consumer electronics. Users can look forward to deploying content in the browser with Flash Player 10.1 and as a standalone application with AIR 2.

Pricing and Availability
Adobe Creative Suite 5 products and its associated point products will be available through Adobe Authorized Resellers, Adobe Direct Sales and the Adobe Store at www.adobe.com/store. Estimated street price for the suites is US$1899 for CS5 Design Premium, US$1799 for CS5 Web Premium, US$1699 for CS5 Production Premium, US$1299 for CS5 Design Standard and US$2599 for Master Collection CS5. Upgrade pricing, volume licensing and education discounts are available. Adobe CS5 products integrate with Adobe CS Live online services which are complimentary for a limited time. For more detailed information about features, OS support, upgrade policies, pricing and international versions please visit: www.adobe.com/go/creativesuite.

About Adobe Systems Incorporated
Adobe revolutionizes how the world engages with ideas and information – anytime, anywhere and through any medium. For more information, visit www.adobe.com.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Sony's Dash On Sale Now

New Device Brings Real-Time Internet Content to You as a Dashboard For Your Online Life

SAN DIEGO, April 29, 2010 – Sony today announced that its new Dash™, a Wi-Fi touch screen device that pushes real-time, personalized Internet content to users in their homes or offices, is now available for about $199 at www.sonystyle.com, Sony Style retail stores and other authorized dealers nationwide.

a Wi-Fi touch screen device that pushes real-time, personalized Internet content to users in their homes or offices, is now available for about $199 at www.sonystyle.com, Sony Style retail stores and other authorized dealers nationwide.

Featuring a 7-inch color touch screen, Dash uses your existing wireless internet connection to provide a continuous display of your selections from over 1,000 free apps, many provided by chumby industries, inc., including news, calendars, weather, sports, and social networking. In addition, through BRAVIA® Internet Video, Dash can bring you TV episodes, films and additional video content and music from providers such as CBS"!, Netflix, YouTube"!, Pandora"!, Slacker® and more.

Sony s Dash is always on and always fresh. No PC or smart phone needed, said Brennan Mullin, senior vice president of Sony Electronics personal imaging and audio business. With a wide library of free apps automatically pushed to you as well as access to a diverse network of more than 30 video channels, Dash is a great example of how Sony delivers the latest and most exciting content into consumers homes.

With Dash, a playlist of your own personalized internet world is constantly refreshed and pushed to you, reducing the need to search for your favorite content or to log onto your favorite sites. Dash also allows you to wake up a whole new way with music videos, internet radio, or any video content available on the Dash instead of a traditional alarm clock buzzer.

Further, Dash can multitask. For example, if used on a kitchen countertop, internet radio can be playing in the background while you use your Dash to follow a recipe step-by-step.

Adding to Dash s impressive content offerings, CNBC"! and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia will each be offering apps for the Dash, displaying business news and market information as well as enabling you to access the highest quality simple recipes. In addition, Dr. Oz will provide a series of video health tips for Dash users.

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia s app for the Sony Dash, titled Dinner Tonight"! Recipe of the Day, will come pre-loaded on the device and will provide a daily recipe from Martha Stewart s vast library of Everyday Food magazine recipes consisting of eight ingredients or less, as well as allow you the ability to utilize any of the daily Dinner Tonight recipes from the past month.

CNBC s app will also be pre-loaded in the Sony Dash and will feature real-time financial and business news, market information, stocks to watch, and more.

The video health tips provided by Dr. Oz are especially well suited for your wake-up experience. Each video is approximately one minute in length and provides specific steps you can take to live a healthier life.

In the coming weeks, Dash will be highlighted on several national broadcasts including Dr. Oz, Martha Stewart, CNBC, as well as in music videos from several high-profile Sony Music"! artists. Further information and details can be found on the Sony website at www.sony.com/dash and at the Dash facebook homepage at www.facebook.com/sonydash.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

lynda.com Releases 10 Adobe Creative Suite 5 Essential Training Titles

Adobe CS5 Advanced Courses Available on Same Day as Software Release

CARPINTERIA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE) -- lynda.com, the award-winning online training provider of computer skills education for consumers, businesses and schools, announces the release of 10 courses covering the products in Adobe® Creative Suite® 5 released today. Course topics include Photoshop® CS5, Dreamweaver® CS5, Flash® Professional CS5, Illustrator® CS5, InDesign® CS5, After Effects® CS5, Adobe Premiere® Pro CS5, Fireworks® CS5, Encore® CS5, and Soundbooth® CS5 tutorials. Registered users of all Adobe Creative Suite 5 products receive a free 30-day trial membership to lynda.com, which unlocks 100 percent of the lynda.com course offerings in addition to the Creative Suite 5 tutorials.

Following the product announcement, lynda.com released 11 New Features courses. lynda.com now has over 100 hours of Adobe CS5 training available, with more being released in the coming weeks. The CS5 courses augment the hundreds of Adobe Creative Suite courses in the lynda.com Online Training Library®, from early CS versions including CS2, CS3, and CS4 titles.

“We have made it a priority to release a wide selection of practical training courses for Adobe CS5 users,” said Lynda Weinman, co-founder of lynda.com. “Our goal is to help our members stay current with all the latest versions of Creative Suite software with high-quality video training online, whether they are new to the suite of products, or transitioning from previous versions.”

“Adobe Creative Suite 5 contains more than 250 new features that our customers will want to explore and learn to take advantage of the performance and workflow improvements that will enable them to do their job better and faster,” says David Rich, director, design and web segment at Adobe. “Those who wish to quickly get up-to-speed on features including 64-bit performance, the Mercury Playback Engine and Live Preview, can watch lynda.com’s online training which demonstrates the exciting features in Creative Suite 5 product line.”

lynda.com Essential Training titles address basic to advanced tools and techniques within the CS5 version of each Adobe Creative Suite product. Topics include exploring the interface and tools, improving workflow, working with each key feature, and using example projects to demonstrate the software’s capabilities and suggested techniques.

To view the free segments of all the Adobe Creative Suite training tutorials, and to view more detailed product information, please visit http://www.lynda.com/AdobeCS5.

To arrange to view the Adobe Creative Suite selection of tutorials in the lynda.com Online Training Library®, please contact Lauren Lochtefeld.

About lynda.com
Founded in 1995 by Lynda Weinman and Bruce Heavin, lynda.com is an award-winning provider of computer-skill educational materials, including the Online Training Library®, Hands-On Training® instructional books, and CD- and DVD-based video training spanning more than 781 courses for designers, instructors, students, and hobbyists. The lynda.com Online Training Library® is also available via the free lynda.com iPhone App.

From professional software tools including Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver, Logic, Illustrator and Office, to consumer-friendly education about digital photography, Web design, digital video, and many others, lynda.com’s all-star team of trainers and teachers provides comprehensive and unbiased video-based training to a global membership of tens of thousands of subscribers. Members have access to all 48,376 movies in the Online Training Library®, and non-members can sample thousands of training tutorials for free. Learn more at www.lynda.com.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Photography Blog Handbook: PhotoShelter Releases Free Blog Guide for Photographers

A Comprehensive E-Book to Help Photographers Use Their Blogs to Promote Their Work, Increase Website Traffic, and Generate More Business

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE) -- PhotoShelter, the leader in photography websites, photo sales and archiving tools for photographers, today released The Photography Blog Handbook, the latest in their popular series of free research reports for photographers. The Photography Blog Handbook provides essential internet marketing guidance for pro photographers and aspiring hobbyists looking to grow their photography business online. Available at http://www.photoshelter.com/mkt/research/photography-blog-handbook, the guide is designed to share insights with photographers launching new blogs as well as those looking to optimize their blog performance as part of their overall marketing strategy.

This downloadable e-book tackles some of photographers’ most commonly asked questions about managing a photography blog: Why should I blog? How can blogging really help me get more business? How do I make the time I spend blogging worthwhile? And, who’s reading this thing anyway?

Providing 35 pages of direct, actionable suggestions to help photographers get the most from their blogs, this e-book demonstrates how to use a blog to both attract new website visitors and connect with existing clients. PhotoShelter deconstructs the anatomy of a successful photography blog to make photographers aware of must-have elements that influence a blog’s success. The e-book is filled with case studies and examples of smart blogging tactics used by photographers from a diversity of specialties. PhotoShelter provides readers with help solving one of the biggest challenges – what to write – by sharing content ideas that will help attract more visitors, influence social sharing, and boost search engine optimization. In addition, the e-book includes guidance for beginners on choosing the best blogging platform, blog design best practices, and how to outfit a blog with features that will make photos look outstanding.

“Many people conceive of blogs as online journals, but a blog can be a powerful tool for serious photographers to connect with clients, potential clients, and fans online,” says PhotoShelter CEO Allen Murabayashi. “This free e-book is required reading for any photographer interested in using their blog as a platform to attract more website traffic, get more business, and sell more photography.”

Sponsored by PhotoShelter’s partners, including Adorama Camera, Graph Paper Press, and Agency Access, The Photography Blog Handbook marks the 5th installment in PhotoShelter’s series of free e-books on online marketing for photography businesses. PhotoShelter is committed to helping photographers use technology to compete in a quickly changing marketplace. Comprehensive free learning resources – combined with websites and tools for serious photographers – make PhotoShelter the go-to source for marketing a photography business online.

In addition to the free guide, photographers can join PhotoShelter for free webinars on a variety of topics, including: Blogging, Social Media, Search Engine Optimization, Google Analytics, and Website Optimization – all tailored to the specific needs of photographers. In addition, regular follow-up commentary can be found on the PhotoShelter blog, A Picture’s Worth.

This e-book complements the suite of tools that accompany every PhotoShelter photography website, including embeddable slideshows for posting images on blogs, seamless design integration with WordPress blogs by Graph Paper Press, plus e-commerce, advanced SEO, and a variety of social sharing capabilities. Photographers can register for a PhotoShelter account at: http://www.photoshelter.com/ref/HOMEPAGE. PhotoShelter can be found on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/photoshelter) and Facebook (http://bit.ly/PSfacebook).

No technical experience is required to implement the strategies discussed in The Photography Blog Handbook, and PhotoShelter membership is not necessary.

About PhotoShelter
PhotoShelter is the leader in portfolio websites, photo sales and archiving tools for photographers.

Over 50,000 photographers worldwide use PhotoShelter to power their success online, with customizable website templates, searchable photo galleries, e-commerce capabilities, and bulletproof image storage. Photographers can create a professional PhotoShelter website in under five minutes, or customize PhotoShelter to power their existing photography website. A true solution designed to make the business of photography easier to manage - PhotoShelter offers image security, global accessibility, and advanced marketing tools so photographers can make their images work harder for them. To join our community, visit http://www.photoshelter.com/. To read our free reports with online marketing insights for photographers, visit http://www.photoshelter.com/ref/FREEREPORTS.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Sony Teams Up With Taylor Swift To Promote Latest Cyber-Shot Digital Cameras

Start of a year-long campaign highlighting Sony innovations

SAN DIEGO, Calif., April 26, 2010 Sony Electronics has teamed up with four-time GRAMMY award-winning singer/songwriter Taylor Swift to promote its latest Cyber-shot digital cameras in an integrated marketing campaign that puts the spotlight on the company s latest innovations.

The ads with Swift zero in on the sleek and powerful Cyber-shot DSC-TX7 digital still camera and its intelligent iSweep Panorama feature that captures ultra-wide panoramic shots in one easy press and sweep motion; a technology innovation currently only available by Sony.

Primetime advertising spots featuring Swift discovering that she can capture the breadth of her audience with the new TX7 camera will start airing today on NBC, FOX and CW, accompanied by digital and print ads carried out through June. Sony will also spread the word about the new digital camera commercial through social networks.

My fans are on the cutting edge, and I m very interested in the newest and best technologies out there, said Swift. I m super excited to be working with Sony and using the TX7 camera. The iSweep panorama mode is amazing.

This campaign with Swift and the TX7 camera is the start of a year-long campaign designed to demonstrate the quality, innovation, style and design that only Sony-branded products stand for, said Stuart Redsun, Sony Electronics senior vice president, corporate marketing. Sony is the only electronics company that creates entertainment and the only entertainment company that makes electronics. The wow factor in our newest ad is clearly illustrated when Taylor puts the TX7 in action.

The campaign kicks off with Swift visiting the Sony Innovation Center where all of Sony s electronics and entertainment assets unite, and will continue with different guests stopping by to check out other Sony innovations. All aspects of this year-long advertising campaign with interactive content and Sony s latest innovations will be highlighted at www.sony.com/innovations.

This is the first campaign to incorporate the Sony group-wide make.believe (make dot believe) brand message which symbolizes creativity and innovation and unifies both entertainment and electronics. It was developed with support of Sony Electronics advertising agency 180 Los Angeles.

About the Cyber-shot DSC-TX7
In addition to the iSweep Panorama mode, the compact and stylish TX7 takes stunning low-light images, can shoot 10 images in one second, and is the world s smallest camera capable of full high-definition AVCHD video recording and playback. The camera has a 3.5-inch (diag.) high resolution touch LCD screen and is available in silver, dark blue and red for about $400 online at Sonystyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), at military base exchanges and at authorized dealers nationwide.

To create additional excitement, a limited number of TX7 cameras have been engraved with Taylor Swift s signature and will be on sale at SonyStyle.com.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

onOne Software Announces Product Support for Adobe Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended

Digital photography software developer outlines product specific support for Adobe Photoshop CS5 and CS5 Extended and Mac 64-bit

onOne Software, Inc., a leading developer of innovative, timesaving solutions for professional and advanced amateur photographers, today announced that all of their currently shipping Photoshop software plug-ins will be compatible with the new Adobe® Photoshop® CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended software announced yesterday by Adobe. Specifically, the following Photoshop plug-ins from onOne Software will be compatible with Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended:

* Plug-In Suite 5
* Genuine Fractals 6 Professional Edition
* Genuine Fractals 6
* PhotoTools 2.5 Professional Edition
* PhotoTools 2.5 Standard Edition
* PhotoTools 2.5 Free Edition
* PhotoFrame 4.5 Professional Edition
* PhotoFrame 4.5 Standard Edition
* PhotoFrame 4.5 Free Edition
* Mask Pro 4.1
* PhotoTune 3
* FocalPoint 2

“We're certain that users of our Photoshop plug-ins will find Adobe Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended software, with full 64-bit support, to be very compelling upgrades,” said Craig Keudell, president of onOne Software. “We're delighted to announce that we plan to provide free compatibility updates for all of the current versions of our plug-ins so that they will be compatible with both Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended, so that our customers can continue to maximize the power of Photoshop in conjunction with onOne products.”

“We're happy to see onOne Software quickly supporting the newly released Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended,” said Kevin Connor, vice president of product management for professional digital imaging at Adobe. “onOne's plug-in support for Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended will ensure that photographers and designers can smoothly transition to this landmark, 20th anniversary release. Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended are designed to be open applications, so our partners can easily extend the value of the software and provide more creative and innovative options to the customers we serve.”
 
Availability
onOne Software will make the Photoshop CS5 compatibility updates free of charge to registered owners of the current product titles listed above. These free software updates will be available as updates from within each application and as a download from the onOne Software web site within 30 days of Photoshop CS5 and Photoshop CS5 Extended availability.
 
Upgrade Information
Registered owners of previous versions of the onOne Software plug-ins for Photoshop listed above can upgrade to the current version of each plug-in for only $99.95 plus shipping if applicable. Alternately, these users may also upgrade directly to the Plug-In Suite 5 for $349.95, plus shipping if applicable (electronic versions are available for download as well). The Plug-In Suite 5 includes the most recent versions of all onOne Software plug-ins. Upgrades from Plug-In Suite 1, 2, 3 or 4 to the Plug-In Suite 5 are available for $199.95 plus shipping if applicable. More information about onOne Software's upgrade program can be found at http://www.ononesoftware.com/upgrade.
 
About onOne Software
onOne Software, Inc. a leading developer of innovative software tools for photographers, develops time-saving software solutions for professional and advanced amateur photographers. onOne Software solutions have been created to help photographers spend more of their time behind the camera taking pictures instead of the computer workstation. Such solutions include a wide range of easy-to-use plug-in enhancements for Adobe® Photoshop®, Photoshop Elements and Photoshop Lightroom.

onOne Software delivers the highest quality software products to users by working with industry leaders and continuing to develop core technologies for professional photo solutions on both Macintosh and Windows operating systems. Founded in 2005, onOne Software is a privately held company located in Portland, Oregon. For additional information, visit http://www.ononesoftware.com or call 1-888-968-1468.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Sigma Corporation of America’s new 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM lens now available

Rectilinear lens contains new “F” Low Dispersion glass, is widest angle zoom on the market


Ronkonkoma, NY, April 23, 2010 – Sigma Corporation of America (www.sigmaphoto.com title="Sigam"), a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, has announced that its new, 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM lens, which incorporates the company’s new “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) lens glass, is now available.


This rectilinear lens, which was first introduced at PMA 2010 in February, is the widest angle zoom lens on the market today. The 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM is designed specifically for APS-C size image sensors and has an equivalent angle of view of a 12-24mm lens when used on digital cameras of that sensor size. The lens is currently available in Canon mount at all authorized Sigma dealers for the MSRP of $1,100, and it will be available in Sigma, Nikon, Sony and Pentax mounts in the coming weeks.


“As the manufacturer of the first ultra wide angle lens, there are a number of reasons why we are incredibly excited about the arrival of this lens. The fact that it produces a wide-angle view of nearly 121.2 degrees, depending on what camera you are shooting with, is definitely at the top of that list,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, general manager of Sigma Corporation of America. “Another feature that we are extremely proud of is this lens’ use of our company’s new FLD glass, which boasts performance equal to fluorite glass, but without the added weight.”

FLD glass is the highest level, low dispersion glass available with extremely high light transmission. With a performance equal to fluorite glass, this optical glass has a low refractive index and low dispersion compared to current optical glass. It also benefits from high anomalous dispersion. These characteristics offer excellent correction for residual chromatic aberration (secondary spectrum), which cannot be corrected by ordinary optical glass and ensures high-definition and high-contrast images.

In addition to having four elements of the FLD glass, the 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM also offers one hybrid aspherical lens and two glass mold elements for excellent correction of distortion and astigmatism. It incorporates an inner focusing system to produce high-definition images throughout the entire zoom range, and has Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting with superior peripheral brightness to produce high-contrast images. The lens’ Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides quiet and high-speed auto focus, as well as full-time manual focus capability.

The 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM has a minimum focusing distance of 9.4 inches throughout the entire zoom range to create exaggerated perspectives and help photographers emphasize the subject. Its compact construction measures up to an overall length of 4.2 inches and a maximum diameter of 2.9 inches.

To locate an authorized Sigma dealer nearest to you, visit www.sigmaphoto.com/where/where.asp. For information about Sigma Corporation of America, visit www.sigmaphoto.com.

About Sigma Corporation
For nearly 50 years, Sigma Corporation’s expertise and innovation has driven the company’s core philosophy of “knowledge, plus experience, plus imagination,” with an emphasis on producing high-quality, high-performance photographic technology at moderate prices. This family-owned organization is the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 50 lenses that are compatible with most manufacturers, including Sigma, Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus and Pentax. Sigma Corporation also produces digital SLR cameras and high-definition digital compact cameras. The company is headquartered in Japan, with offices strategically located throughout Europe, Asia and North America. For information, please visit www.sigmaphoto.com.

Specifications for the 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM
Lens Construction	15 elements, 11 groups
Angle of view	114.5 – 75.4
Number of diaphragm blades	7 blades
Minimum aperture	F22
Minimum focusing distance	9.4 inches/24cm
Maximum magnifications	1:7.8
Dimensions	Diameter 3.0 inches x 4.2 inches/75mm x 105.7mm
Weight	19.6 ounces/555g
Corresponding AF mounts	Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax
NOTES: Vignetting will occur if the lens is used with digital cameras with image sensors larger than APS-C size or 35mm SLR cameras.   ·       AF will not function with Pentax ist* series and K100D DSLR cameras that do not support HSM. ·       Filters cannot be attached to this lens. ·       The appearance, specifications, and the like of the product may be subject to change for improvement.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Aerial Image Providers Around the World Adopt New Intergraph(R) Digital Camera

Midwest Aerial Photography, Kyodo Surveying Co., Ltd., Beijing Guodian Jingwei Engineering Technology Co. and Geoplana Ingenieure purchase DMC II to meet evolving customer needs

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Four aerial imagery providers around the world – Midwest Aerial Photography in the U.S., Kyodo Surveying Co., Ltd. in Japan, Beijing Guodian Jingwei Engineering Technology Co. in China and Geoplana Ingenieure in Germany – have acquired the new Intergraph® Z/I Imaging DMC II camera to meet the ever-growing needs of the mapping and aerial photography industry.

The recently-announced DMC II is the first digital aerial camera in the industry to add a single monolithic panchromatic camera head to produce extreme wide-ground coverage for capturing large-scale, high-resolution imagery. The DMC II includes a total of five camera heads, less than any other frame-based, large-format camera system in the industry. The camera is part of Intergraph's new platform strategy, through which customized sensors are added to existing camera components to provide customers with cost-effective, modular options for various aerial acquisition needs while protecting previous investments. With three models to choose from – DMC II 140, DMC II 230 and DMC II 250 – even small and medium-sized companies can cost-effectively enter the digital imagery market, and customers can easily upgrade their systems as needed.

Midwest Aerial Photography, an aerial mapping photography specialist in the Midwestern United States, has acquired the DMC II for use in the USDA's National Resources Inventory (NRI) Program. The NRI is a statistically based sample of land use and natural resource conditions and trends on U.S. nonfederal lands. According to the USDA, it is the most comprehensive database of its kind ever attempted anywhere in the world. To support the program, Midwest Aerial Photography and others will acquire tens of thousands of aerial photos each year throughout the U.S.

"As a long-time user of Intergraph's film-based aerial cameras, our purchase of the DMC II marks our first foray into digital image acquisition," said Ken Scruggs, president of Midwest Aerial Photography. "Through high levels of data accuracy, four-band imagery and fast, efficient image production, the DMC II will play a critical role in cost-effectively delivering quality images to the USDA, while also being versatile enough to leverage for additional projects we undertake for government and private organizations across the country."

In APAC, Kyodo Surveying Co., Ltd. will implement a DMC II to conduct orthophoto production for the Geographical Survey Institute and Forestry Agency of Japan, while Beijing Guodian Jingwei Engineering Technology Co. in China has purchased two DMC II cameras for large-scale mapping and orthophoto generation.

"Due to the industry reputation of Intergraph and the tremendous local support available from Intergraph China, we are confident that the purchase of these two new cameras will significantly advance our image acquisition capabilities," said Mr. Xiao Xiaoliang, the general manager of Beijing Guodian Jingwei Engineering Technology Co.

Geoplana Ingenieure, a provider of imagery, mapping and GIS services in Germany, has also selected the DMC II as its first digital aerial camera, previously relying on film technology for aerial imaging. The camera will be used to provide mapping, GIS and photo flight services to mapping agencies, municipalities and utilities in Germany and surrounding countries, as well as to provide imagery to other users such as Google and Microsoft.

"The high system quality, attractive price point and protection of investment were key factors in our selection of the Intergraph DMC II," said Jens Knittel, CEO of Geoplana Ingenieure. "With the DMC II and Intergraph's new camera platform strategy, we will be able to successfully and cost-effectively enter into the digital image acquisition market, as well as easily upgrade our technology as customer needs expand."

The DMC was the industry's first large-format frame digital aerial camera, the first to be certified by the United States Geological Survey and the first to offer an innovative Solid State Disk (SSD) storage technology to decrease camera weight and footprint. Further information on Intergraph's photogrammetry solutions can be found at: http://www.intergraph.com/photo/default.aspx.

About Midwest Aerial Photography
Midwest Aerial Photography has established itself as the only firm in the Ohio region of the United States that specializes in aerial mapping photography. The company's primary focus is aerial mapping photography and the production of digital and traditional photo laboratory products for the photogrammetric industry within the United States. Midwest Aerial performs these services for all levels of government and private entities that require precision aerial data. More information can be found at: http://www.midwestaerialphoto.com.

About Kyodo Survey Co., Ltd.
Kyodo Survey Co., Ltd. was established in 1950 and is based in Nagano, Japan. The company provides spatial information for land surveying, building consultancy and compensation consultancy, as well as other types of geographic information. More information can be found at: http://www.kyo-soku.co.jp/index.php.

About Beijing Guodian Jingwei Engineering Technology Co.
Based in Beijing, China, Beijing Guodian Jingwei Engineering Technology is a corporation known for professional mapping and system integration, and is also a leader in aerial surveying, remote sensing, GIS, engineering surveying and software engineering. With a focus on advanced equipment and software, as well as reliable customer service, the company conducts a wide variety of imaging and engineering projects that support China's critical infrastructure. Further information can be found at: http://www.bjgdjw.com/EngLish/News/gsjj.asp.

About Geoplana Ingenieure
Geoplana Ingenieure is a provider of mapping, GIS and aerial imagery to a wide variety of organizations in Germany and surrounding countries. The company is based in the city of Marbach in Germany. Further information can be found at: http://www.geoplana.de/.

About Intergraph
Intergraph is the leading global provider of engineering and geospatial software that enables customers to visualize complex data. Businesses and governments in more than 60 countries rely on Intergraph's industry-specific software to organize vast amounts of data into understandable visual representations and actionable intelligence. Intergraph's software and services empower customers to build and operate more efficient plants and ships, create intelligent maps and protect critical infrastructure and millions of people around the world.

Intergraph operates through two divisions: Process, Power & Marine (PP&M) and Security, Government & Infrastructure (SG&I). Intergraph PP&M provides enterprise engineering software for the design, construction and operation of plants, ships and offshore facilities. Intergraph SG&I provides geospatially-powered solutions to the defense and intelligence, public safety and security, government, transportation, photogrammetry, utilities and communications industries. For more information, visit www.intergraph.com.

© 2010 Intergraph Corp. All rights reserved. Intergraph and the Intergraph logo are registered trademarks of Intergraph Corp. or its subsidiaries in the United States and in other countries. Other brands and product names are trademarks of their respective owners.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Nikon Podcast #33: Focus on Lenses

Join Mark Ellwood as he sits down with Steve Heiner from Nikon while they discuss some of Nikon's newest NIKKOR lenses.

Nikon Podcast #33: Focus on Lenses

Join Mark Ellwood as he sits down with Steve Heiner from Nikon while they discuss some of Nikon's newest NIKKOR lenses. Mark and Steve focus in on the ever-versatile 16-35mm f/4, the portrait-perfect 24mm f/1.4, and the newly announced 200-400mm f/4 lenses. Stay tuned to find out what makes these lenses so special and what kinds of engineering marvels create a covetable piece of glass. Music composed by Frank Ferrucci.

Listen and subscribe to this podcast in iTunes by clicking here.

For all other RSS readers, click here.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Hasselblad’s Winning Streak Continues!

26/04/2010 For the fourth time - the second in two years! -a Hasselblad camera has won the TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) award for Best Medium-Format D-System.

This year, the H4D-40 with True Focus and APL (Absolute Position Lock) was chosen by editors of more than 20 photo magazines around the world.

The editors based their decision on five factors: innovation, the use of leading-edge technology, design and ergonomics, ease of use, and price/performance ratio.

TIPA judges noted that in addition to “making auto-focus easier and more accurate for photo professionals, the H4D series has been designed to meet the demands of high-end commercial photographers, who require the ultimate in both image quality and performance.”

Responding to Hasselblad’s latest win, CEO Larry Hansen commented, “We are honored to receive this prestigious award and proud of the company’s achievements in developing the H4D-40. This camera not only meets the needs of the established Hasselblad community of professional photographers, but will introduce 35mm DSLR photographers to the benefits of medium-format photography, including advances in image quality.”

Hasselblad Director of Product Management Peter Stig added that the H4D-40’s True Focus and Absolute Position Lock “provide a clever use of new technology. By providing this unique mechanism, with which photographers gain speed, accuracy and flexibility when focusing in a recomposed image, Hasselblad has solved one of the technological challenges facing serious photographers today.”

Hasselblad debuted the H4D in September 2009 in Florida, at the Kennedy Space Center to mark the 40th anniversary of the U.S. moon landing and Hasselblad’s first trip into outer space.

For more on the prestigious TIPA award, click here.

For more information about the H4D-40, click here.

Text by Alice B. Miller

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Getty Images to Acquire Rex Features

Acquisition Will Provide a Broader Selection of Compelling Entertainment Content to Meet Growing Demand for Celebrity Imagery

Getty Images, Inc., the world's leading creator and distributor of visual content and other media, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Rex Features, which includes Los Angeles-based Berliner Photography. The acquisition will benefit existing and potential customers by making even more celebrity content easily accessible.

"Celebrity and entertainment content is a growing and vital part of the editorial imagery industry and this acquisition positions us to meet and exceed the demand for nearly instantaneous material," said Jonathan Klein, co-founder and CEO of Getty Images. "Growing our entertainment imagery business continues to be a key strategic focus. The real winners will be our customers, who can now expect to see greater choice and more easily accessible imagery."

Getty Images intends to maintain Rex Features' brand and with the combined resources of Getty Images and Rex Features, Getty Images will continue to generate new imagery for their respective celebrity and entertainment collections. Additionally, Getty Images' global distribution channels will increase international customers' access to Rex Features' products and services.

The acquisition of Rex Features was driving by the continually evolving celebrity imagery business and gives Getty Images more coverage capabilities for events and portraiture and will expand the entertainment and celebrity imagery segment.

"Over more than five decades, Rex Features has built a strong heritage and reputation that Getty Images will build upon to the benefit of customers worldwide," added Klein. "Getty Images has always been dedicated to making strategic investments that will provide long-term value to our customers."

About Getty Images
Getty Images is the world's leading creator and distributor of still imagery, footage and multimedia products, as well as a recognized provider of other forms of premium digital content, including music. Getty Images serves business customers in more than 100 countries and is the first place creative and media professionals turn to discover, purchase and manage images and other digital content. Its award-winning photographers and imagery help customers provide inspiring work which appears every day in the world's most influential newspapers, magazines, advertising campaigns, films, television programs, books and Web sites. Visit Getty Images at www.gettyimages.com to learn more about how the company is advancing the unique role of digital media in communications and business, and enabling creative ideas to come to life.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Nikon Focuses On Exceptional Image Quality At Super-Telephoto Focal Lengths With New AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II High Power Professional Zoom Lens

MELVILLE, N.Y. (April 27, 2010) – Today, the evolution of the super telephoto lens continues as Nikon Inc. announced the new AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II lens which delivers optical excellence and stunning image quality for professional photographers. Ideal for bringing to life exquisite detail for sports, nature and travel photography, this new lens affords a constant maximum aperture of f/4 and rugged construction for maximum versatility. Continued refinements and new technologies such as Vibration Reduction (VR) II, Nano Crystal Coat, and optimized autofocus (AF) modes enhance functionality and improve performance for discerning FX and DX-format photographers.

“The AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm lens builds upon a proven design for professional level optics by incorporating the latest Nikon lens technologies to give photographers the edge in the field, and the ability to capture the most intricate of details with extraordinary fidelity,” said Lisa Osorio, general manager of Marketing at Nikon Inc. “As both camera capabilities and the roles of photographers expand, NIKKOR enhancements will continue to meet demands and exceed expectations to remain the pinnacle of optical excellence for all types of photographers.”

Whether photographing the decisive play at home plate or predators of the Serengeti, the 200-400mm f/4 lens is an essential tool for photographers who require long focal lengths and maximum versatility without sacrificing image quality. The 200-400mm lens benefits from the addition of Nikon’s proprietary Nano Crystal Coat to reduce instances of ghosting and flaring. The result is unparalleled clarity and sharpness in challenging lighting environments typical to sports venues or harsh sunlight.

Additionally, this new NIKKOR lens features Nikon VR II image stabilization, which is specifically engineered for each lens for maximum performance. VR II is a valuable asset to those shooting photos or HD video, as image blur introduced by camera shake and telephoto magnification is significantly reduced. Users are able to shoot up to four stops* slower than otherwise possible, overcoming many of the challenges of handheld shooting with such extreme focal lengths. VR functionality is further augmented with Automatic Panning Detection and an Active VR Mode to help compensate for movement from an unstable position such as a moving vehicle. Additionally, VR is always engaged when shooting in the D-Movie mode on select Nikon D-SLRs, helping to stabilize HD video capture.

The new 200-400mm f/4 lens features a host of professional focusing features to further enhance functionality. Photographers can now select from three focus modes to match shooting conditions, including manual mode (M) and autofocus with manual override (M/A) mode, and new A/M mode which is used to avoid cancelling the AF setting by unintentionally moving the focus ring while shooting. The M/A and A/M focus modes enhance AF control with fast, secure switching from automatic and manual focus to adapt to personal shooting preference and techniques. Additionally, photographers can activate the AF Recall Mode at the press of a button that allows for instant return to a predetermined point of focus to confidently capture anticipated shots.

This professional lens is constructed of die-cast magnesium for maximum durability and is sealed to resist dust and moisture, with protective Meniscus glass to safeguard the lens’ front element. The optical formula features four Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements for superior sharpness, color and image quality, while minimizing chromatic aberration. The lens also features Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, which enables high-speed autofocus performance with exceptional accuracy and powerful, super-quiet operation. Nikon's Super Integrated Coating further suppresses flare and offers superior color consistency throughout the frame.

Price and Availability
The AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers in late May 2010 with an estimated selling price of $6,999.95**. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

About the NIKKOR brand
With a comprehensive assortment of FX and DX-format lenses and focal lengths, from the new ultra-wide 10-24mm to the super telephoto 600mm VR, Nikon photographers have come to rely upon the NIKKOR core technologies that contribute to their optical superiority. NIKKOR is the brand name for Nikon’s photographic lenses, which are precision crafted to the most exacting standards in Nikon’s own glassworks. In 1933, Nikon marketed its first camera lens under the NIKKOR brand name, the "Aero-NIKKOR” for aerial photography applications. Since then, NIKKOR has been used as a brand name for Nikon’s lenses that symbolizes durability, high image quality and optical excellence.

About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN® digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-UX or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

*As determined in Nikon performance tests
**Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Sigma Corporation's New 17-70MM F/2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM Lens Receives Technical Image Press Association Award

Standard Zoom Lens Honored With Coveted TIPA Award in the "Best Entry Level Lens" Category

RONKONKOMA, NY--(Marketwire - April 26, 2010) -  Sigma Corporation of America (www.sigmaphoto.com), a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider for some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, announced today that the Technical Image Press Association has honored Sigma's 17-70MM F/2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM lens with its Best Entry Level Lens award.

This large aperture, standard zoom lens contains state-of-the-art enhancements, including the company's own Optical Stabilization (OS), which allows for hand-held photography even in a low-light situation. The OS feature allows Sony and Pentax users the ability to view a stabilized image in the viewfinder, a feature offered only by Sigma.

"With its versatility and outstanding zoom range, the 17-70MM F/2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM is an ideal all-around lens for serious photographers looking for a standard zoom for landscapes, portraits and many everyday photo needs," said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, general manager of Sigma Corporation of America. "We're very pleased that the Technical Image Press Association has recognized Sigma's continuing innovations and commitment to high standards of optical equipment at moderate prices."

TIPA editors vote each year for the best photo and imaging products introduced in Europe during the previous 12 months. When awarding products, TIPA takes into account innovation, ergonomics, design, ease-of-use, efficiency, price/performance ratio and other guidelines.
In its review, TIPA praised the versatile zoom of the 17-70mm and noted: "This modern, good zoom makes high-end optical features accessible to all."

With a large aperture of F2.8 on the wide end and F4 at the tele end, as well as a macro function with a minimum focusing distance of 8.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7, this lens is ideal for a wide range of photography. The lens' Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) also ensures a quiet and high speed AF capability. It has a faster aperture than the typical camera "kit lens." It's three aspherical and extraordinary low dispersion glass elements provide critical sharpness and low distortion.

The 17-70MM F/2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM lens is currently available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon (D), Sony (D) and Pentax mounts for $680 MSRP in stores nationwide.

To locate an authorized Sigma dealer nearest to you, visit www.sigmaphoto.com/where/where.asp. For information about Sigma Corporation of America, visit www.sigmaphoto.com.

About Sigma Corporation
For nearly 50 years, Sigma Corporation's expertise and innovation has driven the company's core philosophy of "knowledge, plus experience, plus imagination," with an emphasis on producing high-quality, high-performance photographic technology at moderate prices. This family-owned organization is the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 50 lenses that are compatible with most manufacturers, including Sigma, Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus and Pentax. Sigma Corporation also produces digital SLR cameras and high-definition digital compact cameras. The company is headquartered in Japan, with offices strategically located throughout Europe, Asia and North America. For information, please visit www.sigmaphoto.com.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Fast Media Group launches stockphotodiscounts.com, the fast way to save on stock photos

London, 20 April 2010 – Fast Media Group launches stockphotodiscounts.com, the fast way to save on stock photos. With over 1.000 companies selling stock photography and countless independent photographers selling their work, finding the best pictures at the right price is a difficult task. Stockphotodiscounts.com solves this problem by aggregating all available stock photography deals. The site allows anyone to post a discount they find and companies can list their own deals and discounts in minutes. On top of that the stockphotodiscounts.com team works with a growing number of partners that offer discounts exclusively to visitors.

Stockphotodiscounts.com takes away the need for picture buyers to search the web for the best deals. It also takes away the burden of having to negotiate deals with several suppliers. Stockphotodiscounts.com now does the work by aggregating all available deals. On top of that stockphotodiscounts.com agrees unique and exclusive deals with a growing number of picture sellers. These discounts are only available to visitors of the website.

Stockphotodiscounts.com helps picture sellers get the message out quickly. Instead of designing marketing tools and communicating via resellers, promotions and discounts can be posted in minutes to be seen by a Global audience of picture buyers. Sellers can submit and manage a number of discounts that highlight several parts of their offering, from the introduction of a new collection to sales prices for older or less successful images.

“Our experience and connections in the stock photography industry allow us to agree discounts with a large range of stock photography sellers, from small specialists to some of the biggest companies”, said Marco Oonk, business development director at stockphotodiscounts.com. “This means that we’re able to take the hassle out of price negotiations for image buyers, so they can be confident to pay a fair price for their favourite products. At the same time the site offers a quick and flexible way for picture sellers to manage their collections by experimenting with deals, discounts and pricing.”

When a picture buyer clicks on a coupon code, the code is automatically copied to a clipboard while the picture buyer is sent directly to the website of the seller. At checkout the picture buyer can simply paste the code and claim the discount.

About Fast Media Group
Fast Media Group brings together picture buyers and sellers. Fast Media Group helps companies make informed decisions with news, articles and reports, save time finding the right suppliers and partners in a large directory, save money by claiming exclusive discounts and improve efficiency by connecting buyers and sellers in a real time community.

Fast Media Group is responsible for Fast Media Magazine (www.fastmediamagazine.com), a news and information website for picture buyers and sellers, and for stockphotodiscounts.com, the fast way to save on stock photos.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

New images: The volcanic eruption in Iceland

Apr 22. 2010 02:04 by CEPIC - NordicPhotos has new images and footage available of the volcanic eruption in Iceland from NordicPhotos Reykjavik office. NordicPhotos is also doing photo assignments. With close to 100 photographers contracted in Iceland and secured contracts with people living close to the Volcano.

Photo by David Jon Ogmundsson/NordicPhotos

NordicPhotos can provide unique images of the eruption and future developments. They will also be offering footage.

Here is a lightbox of some of the images that are online at the NordicPhotos site right now.

If you have any interest in any of these images, want to have info about assignment or would like to see the footage. Please contact NordicPhotos in Reykjavik at +354 562 5900 or send email to info@nordicphotos.com

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Adobe Announces Lightroom 2.7, Camera Raw 5.7 and DNG Converter 5.7 Release Candidates

Adobe today announced the Lightroom 2.7, Photoshop Camera Raw 5.7 and DNG Converter 5.7 Release Candidates, available for immediate download on Adobe Labs. The updates add raw file support for nine new popular camera models, including the Canon EOS 550D, Sony A450 and Olympus E-PL1. A full list of the newly supported cameras is below.

The term ‘release candidate’ indicates the updates are well tested but would benefit from additional community testing. Adobe encourages photographers to try out the newly added raw file support in this update and provide the product team with feedback so they can create the highest quality experience for customers working on a variety of hardware and software configurations.

Photoshop Lightroom software is today's digital photography workflow solution, allowing photographers to quickly import, process, manage and showcase images. The Photoshop Camera Raw plug-in provides fast and easy access within Photoshop to the raw image formats produced by many leading digital cameras. Adobe’s Digital Negative (DNG) format is a publicly available archival format for the raw files generated by digital cameras.

Pricing and Availability
The Lightroom 2.7 Release Candidate is available as a free download for Lightroom 2 customers, and the Photoshop Camera Raw 5.7 Release Candidate is available as a free download for Photoshop CS4 customers. The DNG Converter 5.7 Release Candidate is also available as a free download for all customers. Click here for more information and to test out the updates: labs.adobe.com/. Feedback can be provided on the Adobe User to User forum (forums.adobe.com).

In addition, photographers can also participate in the Lightroom 3 beta program and try out the new features in Lightroom 3 beta 2 for free. To learn more and download Lightroom 3 beta 2 visit: labs.adobe.com/technologies/lightroom3/.

Newly Supported Camera Models
Canon EOS 550D (Digital Rebel T2i/ EOS Kiss X4 Digital)
Kodak Z981
Leaf Aptus-II 8
Leaf Aptus-II 10R
Mamiya DM40
Olympus E-PL1
Panasonic G2
Panasonic G10
Sony A450

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments

Daemgen.net Releases ProCamera Version 2.7

/PRZOOM - Newswire/ - Daemgen.net announced the 2.7 version of ProCamera, the leading European application for iPhone Photography. A hybrid of German product quality and next-generation technology, allowing to take full advantage of all the iPhone's capabilities.

Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, 04/16/2010 – A hybrid of German product quality and next-generation technology, allowing to take full advantage of all the iPhone‘s camera capabilities.

ProCamera was developed in the city where Mercedes Benz crafted the world‘s first automobile. So, it should come as no surprise that the same quality standard continues in Daemgen.net’s technological advancements today.

ProCamera enables users to utilize their iPhone without limitations, transforming it into a high-end digital camera with full-resolution picture processing and the ease of a snapshot-camera.



The 2.7 version contains premium content such as:

• The Anti-Shake steady-mode, full-resolution zoom, high speed saving and patent-pending alignment tools like the Virtual Horizon (calibrated level meter).
• iPhone 3GS users additionally benefit from ProCamera‘s manual-focus and video-recording support.
• The 2.7 version introduces a built-in Photo Studio where users get the best out of their pictures with the tap of a finger.
• There are essential image adjustments such as Brightness and Contrast or the ability to lighten up low-light images by changing the Gamma value (Flash-Exposure correction), and • Black&White - or Sepia-filters to apply an artistic and professional touch to the photos.
• The combined use of effects is unlimited, and as expected all results are processed in highest quality and full resolution.

Da Vinci’s Golden Mean
One highlighted feature is described as the daVinci grid, which allows users to align objects in respect to the Golden Ratio, giving any image a natural, harmonic balance. Named after famous artist and scientist Leonardo da Vinci, proponent of the Golden Mean rule.

Many artists and architects have proportioned their work since the Renaissance to approximate the Golden Ratio. Today, ProCamera embeds these sophisticated aspects into the ProCamera application. The Tips&Tricks section inside the app offers suggestions on how to fully utilize all aspects of iPhone Photography.

ProCamera (procamera-app.com): The very first advanced camera app on the AppStore continues to be the technological market leader. Bringing their customers simply more amazing features.
The ProCamera product website offers fully loaded information on all of its amazing features, a user guide and a web gallery. Their support team is always available for any requests.

>> Keep Reading: Full Post and Comments