Wednesday, January 23, 2013

The International Loupe Awards 2012


The International Loupe Awards 2012

Winners Announced!
www.loupeawards.com

The 5th Annual International Loupe Awards consisted of 8 open categories and 3 amateur categories,
in addition to the medium Format Art Prize (yet to be announced). It is one of the world’s richest
photographic competitions, with a total prize pool in excess of US$80,000 in 2012! This year saw a
total of 5625 images entered in the competition from 2341 photographers in 92 countries.

The 2012 International Loupe Awards Open Image of the Year is by Andreas Smetana of NSW,
Australia. Andreas has been recognized for his work globally, winning awards at some of the most
prestigious shows around the world. Andreas's versatility in shooting a wide variety of genres has made
him one of Australia's most sought after photographers.

Andreas has won the $15,000 cash prize and a place on the upcoming Creative Asia Vietnam &
China Photography Tour.

The 2012 Open category winners:
People and Portrait – Bill Gekas
Science and Nature – Bas Meelker
Photo Journalism – Tong Leng Liew
Sport – Steve Evans
Commercial, Advertising & Fashion – Bryn Griffiths
Wedding – Keda.Z Feng
Landscape – Luke Austin
Illustrative – Martin Stranka

The 2012 International Loupe Awards Amateur Image of the Year is by Suellen Cook. Suellen is a
born and bred Tasmanian. With a body of beautiful landscape work and a passion to create, Suellen is
making quite a name for herself with her amazingly intricate and conceptual illustrative work.

Suellen has won a fantastic prize from the guys at Kayell Australia. Including products from Lastolite,
Elinchrom, Datacolor, Drobo, Canson, Orbis and iOShutter. This prize is valued at over $5,000.

The other 2012 Amateur category winners:
People and Portrait – Kimberley Munro
Landscape - David Anderson

The 2012 International Loupe Awards is proudly supported by Kayell Australia, Epson Australia,
Sofitel Luxury Hotels, Better Photography Magazine, Lastolite Professional, Datacolor Spyder, Drobo,
Elinchrom, Nik Software and Canson.

Previous winning and highly ranked images from the 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 competitions can be
seen on the website www.loupeawards.com







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Saturday, January 19, 2013

New photography magazine reaches more than 10.000 readers through iPad

WEBWIRE – Wednesday, January 09, 2013 - Good Light! Magazine, a new iPad based publication about portrait photography for amateurs, has just published its third issue in Apple’s Newsstand. The Good Light! Magazine app served exactly 10012 users according to MagCast on Tuesday, January 8th, 2013.

Featuring a high-resolution display, the iPad is the tablet of choice for many amateur and pro photographers. Apparently this device is not only used to showcase own photographs and to take advantage of photography related apps like Instagram and Snapseed, but it is also a tool for convenient consumption of content.

Tablet based magazines allow readers to zoom in on featured photographs, watch videos right inside the magazines and download useful files right from within the magazine.

While magazines have always been a major source of information and inspiration to photographers of all levels, the new features of tablet based magazines make this new type of publication even more attractive.

Good Light! Magazine is an example for a new addition to the photographer centered publishing scene, which makes use of all the advantages electronic publication has to offer. It is integrated with social media and it is interactive up to a point, at which readers can provide feedback and express interest in future topics right inside the magazine.

Thanks to this web-centric reader focus, the magazine was able to attract more than 10.000 readers who installed the Good Light! app on their iPads. This milestone was achieved with just 3 published issues and without any form of conventional advertising.

"We are blessed with a vibrant community of photographers who interact with us on social media. The success of Good Light! Magazine is based entirely on word-of-mouth by this group" explains Sebastian Stelter, social media manager and editor of Good Light! Magazine.

About Good Light! Magazine
Good Light! Magazine is a leading photography magazine for the iPad in Apple’s Newsstand, constantly residing in the USA Top 10 list of iPad Arts and Entertainment magazines. Issues are published in a quarterly rhythm. The publication provides readers with tutorials, tips and behind the scenes videos of professional photo shoots in the areas of portrait and glamour photography.

Good Light! Magazine can be downloaded by searching in Apple’s app store for “Goodlight”. After the app is downloaded, the user can access a free issue of the magazine as well as paid issues and a subscription. The price for paid issues is US$3.99. Subscribers pay US$2.99 only.

Zelbel Ltd & Co.KG in Düsseldorf, Germany publishes the magazine under the label of Pro Portfolio Club, which stands for a line of high-end educational products for photographers.

CEO: Michael Zelbel
Editor: Sebastian Stelter

More about Good Light! Magazine: http://www.GoodLightMag.com
More about publishing with MagCast: http://www.GoodLightMag.com/magcast






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Monday, January 14, 2013

Shortlist now online after record Hasselblad Masters Entry

The ever-increasing worldwide popularity of the Hasselblad Masters Awards has been demonstrated by entry levels surging from 2500 for the 2012 event up to nearly four thousand for the latest competition, and it's a statistic that has delighted Hasselblad's Global Photographer Relations Manager Paul Waterworth.

"For the first time we allowed entries from photographers who have been active professionals for more than three years and who use cameras of 16MP and above, regardless of brand or format," he says. "We're delighted by how many people have responded to this: winning a section in the Hasselblad Masters Awards is clearly now recognised as a major accolade by professionals based in all corners of the world."

Following an initial call for entries last May, professional photographers had until the end of August to send in their best images to compete in a total of 12 categories: Fine Art, Landscapes/Nature, Wedding/Social, Portrait, Fashion/Beauty, Editorial, Products, Architectural, General, Wildlife, Project//21 and Underwater, the final two being newly added. An internal jury at Hasselblad then had the massive task of honing down the thousands of entries to a shortlist of just 120 - ten images in each category - and these have just been posted online.

An open invitation has now been extended to the public to head to www.hasselblad.com/masters-finalists to view the shortlisted pictures and to vote for their favourite images, this online poll counting as one vote in each category. A distinguished panel of industry experts casts the remaining votes, and just one photographer in each category ultimately emerges as a winner and is crowned a Hasselblad Master. It's the third time the public has had the chance to get involved, and it reflects Hasselblad's determination to give everyone a voice.

The twelve Master photographers will have the opportunity to borrow Hasselblad equipment to create a new set of images for the fourth special Masters Commemorative Book. They will also receive a trophy at photokina 2014, and all winning images will be published on the Hasselblad global website and then presented at exhibitions around the world.

www.hasselblad.com/masters
www.hasselblad.com/masters-finalists






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Friday, January 11, 2013

PhotoShelter Launches Jumpstart Contest for Photographers

Winner receives $15,000 in prizes including one-on-one consulting with Dream Team Advisory Board of respected photographers including Brian Smith, Zack Arias, David Hobby, and Lindsay Adler 

New York (PRWEB) January 10, 2013 - PhotoShelter (http://www.photoshelter.com), the worldwide leader in photography portfolio websites, sales and marketing tools for photographers, launched the “Jumpstart Your Photography Business” contest. 

The contest aims to inspire photographers to take their business to the next level to attract more clients, improve existing relationships, and fine-tune photography skills. The contest is open until February 28, 2013 to PhotoShelter members who answer a short questionnaire about plans to grow their photo business in 2013. Interested applicants can enter directly here: photoshelter.com/jumpstart.
 
The lucky Grand Prize winner will receive over $15,000 in prizes, including exclusive one-on-one time with each member of PhotoShelter’s Dream Team Advisory Board:

  • Lindsay Adler - Social media guru, author, and New York-based fashion and portrait photographer who teaches seminars worldwide.
  • Zack Arias - Editorial and commercial photographer and experienced speaker and educator.
  • Ilise Benun - Marketing consultant, author, and Co-Founder of Marketing Mentor.
  • David Brabyn - Website consultant, photojournalist and Founder of digitaltechparis.
  • Bill Cramer - Commercial photographer and Founder and CEO of Wonderful Machine.
  • Jasmine DeFoore - Photo editor and consultant, and Founder of Texas Photo Roundup.
  • Brian Smith - Award-winning celebrity portrait photographer.
  • David Hobby - Editorial and commercial photographer and Founder of Strobist.com.
The grand prize winner will also receive a Canon 6D + EF 24-105mm F/4L USM and a $2,000 gift card from Calumet Photographic’s exclusive line of products plus a year-long membership to the American Photographic Artists, American Society of Media Photographers, American Society of Picture Professionals or the National Press Photographers Association, and a free year-long PhotoShelter Pro account.
PhotoShelter will award three Gold Winners with a year-long association membership, a free year of a PhotoShelter Pro account, and a $100 Calumet gift card. 10 Silver Winners will also receive a year-long PhotoShelter Pro account, valued at $600.
 
PhotoShelter’s 2013 Jumpstart Contest is open only to eligible PhotoShelter members. Other photographers who wish to enter can become a member by signing up for a free PhotoShelter 30-day trial before February 28, 2013 with the coupon code JUMPSTART. All entries must be submitted by 12:01 AM EST March 1, 2013. For additional information on PhotoShelter's Jumpstart Contest, including prizes and entry rules, visit photoshelter.com/jumpstart.
 
About PhotoShelter
PhotoShelter offers the most professional, reliable and innovative online tools to build and grow a successful photography business. Over 74,000 photographers use PhotoShelter’s websites, social and SEO tools to show their work and attract new clients; online image archives to stay organized and access images on the fly; and image delivery and e-commerce tools to sell their work easily and securely. To start building your business, managing it more efficiently, or finding new ways to market yourself and delight your clients, try PhotoShelter free for 30 days with the coupon code JUMPSTART. Visit us at http://www.photoshelter.com.

 
About Calumet Photographic 
Calumet Photographic has been serving photographers since 1939. Only Calumet serves the needs of photographers with an interactive website, professional call center, worldwide retail and rental centers. There are 32 retail centers in the Calumet group serving the United States, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. http://www.calumetphoto.com/.







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New PowerShot N Digital Camera Opens New Dimensions Of Photographic Expression

Camera Features New Shooting Styles and Easy Wireless Connectivity

Lake Success, N.Y., January 7, 2013 – To inspire creative exploration and encourage instant sharing of life's every day moments, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today unveiled the new PowerShot N digital camera as part of its PowerShot lineup. With an innovative Creative Shot mode that enhances artistic expression and a variety of new connectivity features that support instant sharing, Canon's PowerShot N is the ultimate storytelling tool.

Helping people's creativity bubble to the surface, the PowerShot N offers Creative Shot, a new imaging mode that intuitively analyzes an image and automatically creates a series of five artistic photos of the original with varying composition, lighting and color for an array of options that are ready to impress. In addition, the new PowerShot is equipped with enhanced wireless capabilities that connect the camera to a variety of mobile devices instantly, so users can upload and comment on their images while on-the-go.

In addition to offering powerful artistic and connectivity functions, the PowerShot N features a 2.8-inch capacitive, tilt-touch panel LCD, allowing users to capture creative images at unique angles. With a shutter and zoom ring, both located on the top and bottom of the lens, images can be snapped from virtually any position so the perfect shot is always within reach.

The PowerShot N offers an 8x optical zoom and a 28mm wide-angle lens, packaged with a 12.1- megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor, so your moments can be captured and preserved in stunning quality. Users can also record beautiful 1080p Full HD video with a dedicated movie button, so life's moving moments are not missed. With the built-in Hybrid Auto and Face ID systems, pin-sharp focus can be achieved quickly and easily while the camera automatically recognizes and focuses on familiar faces. For the ultimate in shooting convenience, Canon's Intelligent IS System allows the camera to automatically select the optimal image stabilization settings according to the shooting conditions, taking the guesswork out of identifying the ideal setting for each unique shot.

"An ever-increasing number of internet users continue to post their own photos and videos online," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. "The new PowerShot N opens up a new dimension of photographic expression, helping people express their personal style and creative flair with powerful innovative Canon technologies."
 
Easy Connectivity Options for Convenient Sharing
The PowerShot N is equipped with enhanced wireless capabilities, so high-quality images can be shared with friends and family even while on-the-go. After an initial one-time set-up, the new Mobile Device Connect Button connects the camera to a variety of mobile devices for quick and easy sharing. Users simply press the Mobile Device Connect Button and launch Canon's free CameraWindow applicationi, available on both the iOS and Android operating systemsii, to wirelessly transfer photos and videos to their device. Frequently used devices and accounts are conveniently stored in the camera's wireless history menu for quick one-touch access.

With these enhanced wireless capabilities, users now have the ability to comment on their uploaded photos directly from the camera - so being part of conversations taking place on social networking sites is easy and convenient. In addition, individuals can control the destination of Facebook uploads - choosing to share content with everyone, or post photos only to selected Facebook groups. Users can also instantly upload images wirelessly from the camera to Canon iMAGE GATEWAYiii, and automatically upload them to a computer remotely. Photos can also be printed wirelessly using Wireless PictBridgeiv on select Canon printers, including the new PIXMA MG6320 or PIXMA MX922 Wireless Photo All-In-One printers, so special moments can be preserved and cherished.
 
The Ultimate Tool to Capture Creativity
Creative Shot, available on the PowerShot N, is an easy, yet powerful tool to add artistic effects to your photos. In Creative Shot mode, users compose their shot and let the PowerShot N analyze the photo to apply a series of artistic elements by varying composition, lighting and color. After an image is captured, Creative Shot will render five different variations of the shot in different color modes, crops, and styles, delivering creative new perspectives automatically while still maintaining the original image.

In addition, the new PowerShot N offers 58 scenes of Smart AUTO and provides an 8x Optical Zoom to help users capture the ultimate creative shot. A first-ever for the PowerShot line-up, the camera's shutter and zoom buttons are located on top and bottom of the lens so high and low-angle shots can be easily captured. The PowerShot N features Smart Shutter, enabling users to start tracking a subject simply by pressing the intuitive touch panel LCD, and then capture the image by lifting their finger off the screen. For added flexibility, the image on the screen rotates with the camera - so people can capture even the most unique shot.
 
Sleek, Small and Designed for Portability
With a sleek and distinct design, the PowerShot N measures 3.09 x 2.37 x 1.15 inches, making it ideal for quick on-the-go shooting. This camera features a 2.8-inch capacitive tilt touch panel LCD, which offers 90 degrees of tilt, encourages users to capture images from a wide array of angles and positions effectively in virtually any location. The top-mounted hinge keeps the PowerShot N compact for convenient on-the-go shooting and easy, one handed operation.

The camera's 28mm wide-angle 8x optical zoom lens and shutter are both operated on the camera's dual-ring lens. The outer ring controls the shutter, which can be released from any point on the ring, and the inner ring controls the zoom, so managing the PowerShot N is easy and effortless. With these innovative new design features, users now have the ability to shoot diagonally, horizontally and from low or high angles so even the most out-of-reach image can be captured with ease.

In addition, the PowerShot N offers a new ECO Mode, a feature that provides approximately 30 percent longer battery life when enabled, by dimming the screen and eventually shutting off the display after the device has been idle for 10 seconds, allowing users to shoot more and for longer. Adding to its portability and convenience, the camera features USB charging through a computer or traditional charging by the AC adaptor, allowing users to power-up from virtually anywhere.
 
Pricing and Availability
The PowerShot N is expected to be available in April 2013 for an estimated retail price of $299.99, in white or black.

For more information, and a full list of product specifications, visit www.usa.canon.com/powershot.
 
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With approximately $45.6 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents registered in 2011† and is one of Fortune Magazine's World’s Most Admired Companies in 2012. In 2012, Canon U.S.A. has received the PCMag.com Readers' Choice Award for Service and Reliability in the digital camera and printer categories for the ninth consecutive year, and for camcorders for the past two years. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.
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† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
i This software enables you to upload images to social network services. Before uploading images, please be aware that image files may contain privacy related information such as people and places. If necessary, please delete such information. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this software.
ii Compatible with iOS version 5.1/6.0 or later and Android devices version 2.3/4.0 or later. Data charges may apply.
iii One-time registration is required on CANON iMAGE GATEWAY online photo album.
iv PictBridge (Wireless LAN) certified printer is required.





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Nikon Expands the Nikon 1 System with the Announcement of the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 as well as the New 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6 Lenses

New Nikon 1 System Cameras and Lenses Demonstrate Nikon’s Commitment to Providing Shooters with New Ways to be Creative, Expressive and Connected through Images and Video

Las Vegas, CES Booth #8643 – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the new Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1, the latest additions to the ever growing Nikon 1 Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens System. Designed for consumers looking for a camera that offers the compact size and portability of a point-and-shoot camera along with advanced controls and features found in high-end digital cameras, the new J3 and S1 cameras offer enhanced speed and performance, high image quality and new easy-to-use creative shooting modes. Furthermore, users will be able to easily share and transfer images to smart devices instantly when connected to the optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter1.

Nikon also announced new accessories for the Nikon 1 System, including two new additions to the 1 NIKKOR lenses lineup, the VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and the VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6, ideal lenses for capturing amazing images and HD video with incredible detail. The 6.7-13mm is the first 1 NIKKOR lens to offer a wide, 100-degree angle of view, and the compact and lightweight 10-100mm is a 10x zoom lens that is ultra-portable, perfect for taking on any type of trip or excursion. Nikon has also announced the new WP-N2 underwater case, specifically designed for the adventurous user looking to take their photography on water-based excursions like snorkeling or surfing without the fear of water damaging their camera.

“With today’s announcement of the Nikon 1 J3, Nikon 1 S1, 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm lens and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm lens, Nikon continues to demonstrate our commitment to developing and expanding the Nikon 1 System for creative shooters looking to step up from their compact digital cameras," said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “Similar to previous Nikon 1 System cameras, the compact yet powerful J3 and S1 offer stunning image quality, quick performance, incredibly fast shooting speeds, user-friendly modes and controls, as well as the ability to wirelessly share and transfer images when paired with the WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter.”

Built to Capture and Deliver Stunning Results: The New Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1
Though new additions to the Nikon 1 System, both the J3 and S1 feature many proven and trusted Nikon technologies commonly found in other Nikon camera models. The Nikon 1 J3 features a 14.2-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor, while the Nikon 1 S1 sports a 10.1-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor. Paired together with Nikon’s powerful EXPEED 3A image processing engine, these CMOS sensors deliver stunning high-quality images and HD video even in challenging lighting situations with rich detail. For complete shooting versatility, both cameras feature a wide ISO range, from 160 to 6400 in the J3 and 100 to 6400 in the S1, allowing users even more freedom and capabilities when capturing content in low-light situations. Both cameras offer wide and bright 3-inch LCD screens as well as a new integrated flash that can be setup to go off automatically or can be manually popped up based on a shooter’s desired results.

Additionally, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 offer Nikon’s Advanced Hybrid Autofocus (AF) system, which is lightning fast and highly responsive, ideal for capturing life’s split second moments. With this rapid AF system, users can take advantage of incredibly fast shooting speeds, allowing them to capture fast action that is sharp and in clear focus. The cameras also feature a 73-point AF array that helps ensure accuracy and super precise focus even when capturing fast moving subjects throughout the frame. Further, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 include the world’s shortest release time at approximately 80 milliseconds*, and the world’s fastest high-speed continuous shooting** at 15 frames-per-second with continuous AF.

Creativity Unleashed: User-Friendly Shooting Modes and Controls
Designed to take creative freedom to new heights, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 offer user-friendly shooting modes and controls that photographers can take advantage of whether capturing a family portrait or recording a video of the big hit at a ballgame. For easier control and quick access to camera features, the J3 utilizes improved menu navigation while the S1 features a graphic user interface (GUI) based mode selection, both designed to be easy-to-use and make menu navigation effortless and direct.

The new Nikon 1 System cameras both feature unique shooting modes like Auto Mode, Creative Mode, Advanced Movie, Motion Snapshot and Best Moment Capture, all of which are easily accessible and applied. When in Auto Mode, both cameras will automatically select the optimal settings for the scene, so that the shooter can concentrate on framing the photo. When in Creative Mode, shooters can utilize full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) as well as Selective Color, Miniature, Soft, Night Landscape, Backlighting and Night Portrait modes to help achieve the desired results that they seek. The Nikon 1 J3 also provides access to Easy Panorama Mode to provide a wide perspective for vast landscapes or interiors.

The Advanced Movie Mode is integrated into both new cameras to bolster video capabilities. When in Advanced Movie Mode, the simultaneous shooting of Full HD video and high-resolution stills of a subject or scene is achievable. Furthermore, full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) can be used and slow motion movies at both 400 fps and 1200 fps can also be captured when in this mode. Both cameras share the Enhanced Motion Snapshot Mode to provide users with the option of capturing a quick passing moment with a short, slow-motion movie sequence in addition to a single defining still image. When using Motion Snapshot, in-camera electronic Vibration Reduction (eVR) can be applied to assist in removing blur from images.

With Best Moment Capture Mode, Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 shooters can explore the benefits of two dynamic features, Slow View and Smart Photo Selector. In Slow View, the pressing of the shutter button halfway down once focus is achieved will allow users to capture live action (approx. 1.33 seconds), while the view of the subject is displayed at five times slower than normal speed (approx. 6.66 seconds) on the camera’s LCD screen. Furthermore, the slowed-down view is looped over and over until a full-press of the shutter is made. By viewing action slowed down, users have more opportunities to capture the perfect moment. When Smart Photo Selector is used, shooters can capture up to 20 shots with the J3 and 15 shots with the S1 with one press of the shutter button. The cameras will then automatically identify the five best images to keep based on exposure, focus and facial recognition factors.

Instantly and Easily Share Creative Content: Nikon 1 System Connectivity
Like the Nikon 1 V2, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 were designed to work with Nikon’s optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter. When the WU-1b is connected to the J3 or S1, users have the ability to capture high-quality images and can then easily transfer them wirelessly to a smart device. Once transferred, images can be shared with family and friends or posted to status pages on social media networks. If using the free Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application for Android™2 platform smart devices as well as iPhone® and iPad®3 mobile digital devices, J3 and S1 users will have the ability to remotely take photos with the camera from a smartphone or tablet.

Expansion of the 1 NIKKOR Lens Lineup: The New 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm and VR 10-100mm Lenses
Alongside the new Nikon 1 System cameras, Nikon also announced the addition of two new 1 NIKKOR lenses, the 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and 10-100mm f/4-5.6. With these two lenses, Nikon 1 shooters have even more options when building a camera system that fits their shooting needs and creativity. The new compact, ultra wide-angle zoom 6.7-13mm lens (equivalent to a focal length of 18mm to 35mm in FX/35mm format) will provide photographers with new avenues to explore their creativity and expressivity in photos and videos. The lens includes Vibration Reduction (VR) and has a wide 100-degree angle of view, which makes it ideal for capturing photos and HD video of landscapes, cityscapes, interiors, and architecture. Photographers looking for some more range with their Nikon 1 System cameras will enjoy the new 10-100mm telephoto zoom lens (equivalent to a focal length of 27mm to 270mm in FX/35mm format), which also incorporates Vibration Reduction (VR). The compact and lightweight telephoto lens is portable and convenient enough to take everywhere, while providing a long focal range perfect for various types of photography including group shots and action sports.

Capturing Images Underwater: The New WP-N2 Underwater Case
Perfectly paired with the new Underwater White Balance setting found in both the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1, Nikon has introduced the new WP-N2 underwater case. This new underwater case can house either the J3 or the S1 in addition to the 1 NIKKOR 10-30mm lens. Moreover, the WP-N2 underwater case will allow users to zoom in and out when using the 10-30mm lens. Designed to complement the versatility of the Nikon 1 System cameras, the WP-N2 gives shooters the creative freedom to capture images and videos at the beach, the lake or during aquatic adventures such as snorkeling. The underwater case is submergible and waterproof up to approximately 131 feet (40 meters). Additionally, the new J3 and S1 feature an Underwater White Balance setting which makes adjusting white balance easy when capturing photos underwater.

Price and Availability
The Nikon 1 J3 camera with the 10-30mm lens will be available in February 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $599.95***. Additionally, the Nikon 1 S1 camera with the 11-27.5mm lens will be available in February 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $499.95***. To match consumers' personalities and creativity, the J3 will come in a variety of stylish colors including White, Black, Silver, Burgundy and Beige, while the S1 will come in White, Black, Red, Pink and Khaki.

The two 1 NIKKOR lenses, the 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6, will have suggested retail prices (SRP) of $499.95*** and $549.95***, respectively. The new WP-N2, the underwater case for either the Nikon 1 J3 or the Nikon 1 S1, will be available in February 2013 and will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.95***.

For more information on these new Nikon 1 System products and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

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; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics as well as the Nikon 1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens system. In 2012, production of NIKKOR lenses surpassed 75 million, creating a new milestone in Nikon's heritage of superior optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon and other photographers on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/nikon and get the latest news and information from Twitter by following @NikonUSA.

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1The Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility Application must be installed on the smart device before it can be used with the WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter connected to the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1. The application can be downloaded free of charge from Google Play™ or the Apple App Store. For use with Android or iOS mobile devices, please refer to mobile device compatibility and available features at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nikon.wu.wmau&hl=en (Android) or https://itunes.apple.com/en/app/wireless-mobile-adapter-utility/id554157010 (iOS).
2Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google, Inc. 
3
iPhone, iPad and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

*Among digital cameras with interchangeable lenses available as of December 20, 2012 as determined by Nikon performance tests; measured when using the single-point AF mode and the shortest focal length of 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).
**Among digital cameras with interchangeable lenses available as of December 20, 2012 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).
***SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.
****Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.





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Thursday, January 10, 2013

Hasselblad initiates and sponsors the “Rhino Conservation Awards” in the fight against rhino poaching in Africa

The winners of the first Rhino Conservation Awards recognising those people who dedicate themselves in the fight against rhino poaching in Africa, have been announced and honoured at an event recently held in Pretoria, South Africa.
The annual Rhino Conservation Award has been initiated in 2012 by the Swedish camera manufacturer Hasselblad via its Chairman and CEO, Dr. Larry Hansen and Ms Xiaoyang Yu, founding partner of China New Enterprise Investment, a China focused growth capital fund, with the intention to raise awareness of what is being done in the fight against rhino poaching in South Africa and to recognise role players, who make a significant contribution.

In cooperation with the Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA) and the Department of Environmental Affairs of South Africa, the primary objective of the awards programme is to motivate involved role players to keep fighting to ensure the rhino's survival.

The award ceremony was attended by a cross section of stakeholders with conservation, media and judicial backgrounds and acknowledged awardees in the following five categories: Best Conservation Practitioner; Best Judicial System & Policing; Best Media and Journalism; Best NGO and Best Technology Invention/Application.

Edna Molewa, Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs in South Africa, welcomed the initiatives taken by all stakeholders to partner and support the government in fighting this scourge, acknowledging that government alone can't overcome this threat to conservation.

Dr. Larry Hansen, who also founded the still ongoing Carl Zeiss Tiger Conservation Award in India fourteen years ago, emphasised in his speech at the award ceremony: "I am delighted with the number and quality of nominations received for this award. All nominees and winners often do selfless, unrecognised work to save a heritage that could be lost forever. Sometimes this happens in the face of physical danger, political opposition and financial constraints. These factors make the contribution of each role player even more worthy of recognition."

The Award winners are:
  • Don English - Regional Ranger, Marula South Region, KNP
  • Adv. Antoinette Ferreira - Senior State Advocate NPA Free State
  • Jenny Griesel - Marketing Manager, Jacaranda FM
  • Elise Daffue - Founder of www.stoprhinopoaching.com
  • Dr. Cindy Harper - Geneticist, Onderstpoort Veterinary Genetics Laboratory
South Africa protects around 80% of the world's total rhino population, and rhino horn is currently exported at a rate that puts the survival of both the black and white rhino in jeopardy.




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Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Gustavo Brigante's stunning psd composition for TEN by Fotolia is available for free Thursday only


An Argentinian designer is Fotolia's choice to create the premiere piece to launch season 2 of TEN - the innovative monthly promotion offering free psd downloads from artists around the world that includes Royalty Free licenses for all the Fotolia works used in it. The stylish, art-house style film that accompanies each release on the 10th of each month, will include a "making of" video this season - giving the downloaders a window into the creative thinking and processes of the featured artists. Season 2 will include works from 10 little-known but highly talented artists and 2 spotlight works from undisclosed accomplished creators spreading the season over the entire year.

This first work, a personal interpretation of the theme "Let's work," encapsulates Gustavo's belief that perseverance is the key to success throughout all aspects of life. "It was easy to find the photos of my choice on Fotolia,” he explains. “As I neared the end of this work I needed one additional photo. I took advantage of my encounter with the TEN team to organise a shooting session, in which the cameraman took part as a model. I then imported his photo into Photoshop. To obtain graphic consistency, I managed a few adjustments of colours, shades and exposition, without damaging the original image. This allowed me to bring together stock images from Fotolia, and personal photos. As for the methods and tools I used, I chose those in Photoshop and 3D, which enabled me to add another dimension to my work. The last step was to integrate the shadows of it various elements.

TEN Season 2 launches (Thursday / Today) - get your free download for 24 hours on the 10th and watch the films anytime.






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