Thursday, March 28, 2013

Camera Bits Launches Photo Mechanic Version 5 User Manual on Wiki

The new software manual is available online and easily searchable based on categories or one complete page for the latest version of Photo Mechanic.

Portland, Oregon – March 27, 2013 – Camera Bits announced the launch of the Photo Mechanic all-digital, online wiki user manual with 34 sections of information ranging from basic functions of the software to advanced features like code replacements. Users can find the manual at http://wiki.camerabits.com.

“All of us at Camera Bits are very excited to launch this incredibly detailed, digital tool for our current and new users,” said Director of Customer Communications Mick Orlosky. “This allows the information to be fluid when we update a new version and will be a true asset for any studio or single user who use Photo Mechanic as the first step in their editing workflow.”

Users can browse the manual as an alphabetical index of topics in small chunks, or see it all on one large page to make searching simple. If users find an error or would like to request additional information on a topic, the company will accept comments on the Camera Bits Forums.

Users wishing to download, try or buy Photo Mechanic Version 5 can visit the company’s website at http://www.camerabits.com.






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Saturday, March 23, 2013

Nikon's Newest Advanced Performance COOLPIX Cameras Provide Incredible Quality and Control for Those Serious About Capturing Stunning Images

World Renowned Optics and a Host of Innovative Technologies, Including the Use of a DX-Format Image Sensor, Provide Users with Premier Compacts for Shooting and Sharing 

MELVILLE, N.Y. – 03/14/2013, Nikon Inc. announced two new advanced performance COOLPIX cameras, built for the customer seeking the best image quality possible with the convenience and ease-of-use of a compact camera. The Nikon COOLPIX A is the first COOLPIX to incorporate a DX-format sensor, similar to those found in many of Nikon’s coveted D-SLRs, which provides the highest image quality possible from a compact point-and-shoot. Additionally, the small yet powerful COOLPIX P330 fits comfortably into a shirt pocket, yet gives users the confidence to capture beautiful imagery through amazing optics, low-light capabilities and creative control.

“The introduction of the COOLPIX A, as Nikon’s flagship COOLPIX camera, provides uncompromised image quality and incredibly sharp detail in a compact point-and-shoot camera. As the first COOLPIX to use a DX-format sensor, the COOLPIX A will exceed expectations for its unsurpassed performance,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “The COOLPIX A, along with the COOLPIX P330, demonstrates the forward-looking direction of the Advanced Performance COOLPIX line, and packs all of the benefits of Nikon’s optical heritage and imaging experience into a compact, yet powerful package.”

Advanced Performance COOLPIX Cameras with Wi-Fi® Connectivity
For those who never settle for second best, this new duo presents the optimal choice to consistently capture high-quality images and HD video with outstanding clarity and detail. Thanks to their exceptional CMOS imaging sensors and world-class NIKKOR lenses, these cameras deliver brilliant photos amidst the action, even in low-light conditions. With compact designs and advanced feature sets that allow users to easily grow and improve their image or video shooting skills, these new COOLPIX cameras provide creative control and connectivity options for the photographer in everyone. These new cameras also join the ultra-zoom COOLPIX P520 and performance powerhouse COOLPIX P7700 in Nikon’s series of COOLPIX Advanced Performance cameras.

Once a still or video has been captured, both cameras let users share images instantly with family and friends when connected using the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter1. This accessory pairs with the free downloadable Wireless Mobile Utility application1, which enables users to transfer their images and videos to compatible smart devices and tablets for easy sharing and viewing with others.

The COOLPIX A: Nikon’s First DX-Format COOLPIX Camera
Unlike any other COOLPIX camera, the new COOLPIX A is equipped with a DX-format CMOS sensor that enables users to achieve superior image quality previously only possible with a Nikon D-SLR. The combination of this 16.2-megapixel DX-format sensor and ultra-sharp prime NIKKOR lens firmly positions the COOLPIX A as the reigning flagship camera in the COOLPIX line.

The all-glass 18.5mm (28mm equivalent) prime lens has an f/2.8 aperture, allowing users to shoot with a shallow depth of field to blur backgrounds for professional-looking photos. Even when the sun goes down, the lens offers the ability to turn a fleeting glance into a flattering moonlit portrait with just a press of the shutter. Always ready for the spontaneous moment, the camera’s quick AF performance and 4 frames-per-second (fps) burst help users to consistently capture any moment with outstanding image quality.

For those who want to push their photography skills, the versatile COOLPIX A also offers advanced settings to allow shooters to have complete creative control to master nearly any shooting situation. With multiple Scene Modes, a familiar manual focus ring, full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M), and the ability to shoot RAW/NEF image files, even a simple snapshot can be transformed into artistic expression.

Additionally, the COOLPIX A offers a variety of accessories to enhance the shooting experience, including the DF-CP1 Optical Viewfinder, the UR-E24 Adapter Ring for attaching lens hoods and filters, and the HN-CP18 metal Lens Hood, which helps protect the surface of the lens and restricts light from passing through without negatively influencing images. The camera also has a full size hot shoe port that makes the camera compatible with various accessories such as Nikon Speedlights.

The COOLPIX P330: Big Performance from a Tiny Camera
The COOLPIX P330 offers a useful 5x wide angle to telephoto (24mm-120mm, 35mm equivalent) zoom and cutting-edge features in a sleek, portable design for exceptional images and HD video. The P330 has a 1/1.7-inch, 12.2-megapixel backside illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor that offers users the ability to confidently capture vibrant photos with low noise. Additionally, the super-sharp f/1.8 lens is the fastest in the COOLPIX line, rendering photos and Full HD 1080p video with striking clarity in a variety of lighting conditions. The lens also includes Vibration Reduction image stabilization to further reduce the effects of image blur when shooting handheld. Designed for the user who wants a sophisticated camera with the option of an advanced feature set, the COOLPIX P330 includes manual controls (P,S,A,M) and can now capture NRW/RAW images.

The P330 also enables users to enhance their photography with the inclusion of various Scene Modes, as well as Nikon’s Easy Auto Mode for capturing beautiful imagery during scenic vacations, celebrations or everyday moments, all with the convenience of a small, portable size. Additionally, the camera incorporates Full HD Video with stereo sound, engaged with just a simple press of the dedicated video record button.

This high-performance camera also comes with built-in GPS capabilities so photographers can easily log even their most exotic travels by pinpointing the exact latitude and longitude where the image was captured.

Pricing and Availability
The COOLPIX A will be available in March 2013 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $1099.95* and will be offered in Black and Silver. The DF-CP1 Optical Viewfinder will be available for a suggested retail price of $449.96*, and the UR-E24 Adapter Ring and HN-CP18 Lens Hood will be sold together for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $129.96*; accessories will be available in March 2013. The COOLPIX P330 will also be available in March 2013 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $379.95* and will be offered in Black and White.

In order to give consumers a more effective way to understand the benefits of each COOLPIX camera and to help users determine the best camera to fit their lifestyle, Nikon has segmented the COOLPIX series into five categories: Advanced Performance, Fun & Innovative, Ultra-Slim Zoom, Comfort Long Zoom and Budget Friendly. For more information about these and other COOLPIX cameras, 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. Nikon Corporation, the parent company of the Nikon Inc., recently celebrated its 80th anniversary of NIKKOR optics, and announced the production of over 75 million NIKKOR lenses in 2012, 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.

# # #

1 WI-FI SPECIFICATIONS AND COMPATIBILITY

This camera’s Wi-Fi® capability using the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter can only be used with a compatible iPhone®, iPad®, and/or iPod touch® or smart devices running on the Android™ operating system. The Wireless Mobile Utility application must be installed on the device before it can be used with this camera. For compatibility and to download the application, please visit:

For iPhone®/iPad®/iPod Touch® <https://itunes.apple.com/en/app/wireless-mobile-adapter-utility/id554157010>

For AndroidTM Google PlayTM <https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nikon.wu.wmau>

Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, iPad and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc.

Wi-Fi® and the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo are registered trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance.

All Nikon trademarks are trademarks of 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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Canon U.S.A. Announces World's Smallest And Lightest DSLR Camera

New EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera Fuses Advanced Image Quality and Features into an Ultra-Portable Body

MELVILLE, N.Y., March 21, 2013 – Continuing the quest to deliver superb product innovations, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the world's smallest and lightest DSLR* camera: the EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera. It features a newly developed 18.0-megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and high-performance DIGIC 5 Image Processor for exceptional image quality and speed. With its combination of lightweight size, ease of use and outstanding image quality, the EOS Rebel SL1 is perfect for users looking for the ideal camera to bring sightseeing on vacation or to capture the everyday.

"The EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera represents a new era in DSLR versatility: ultra-portable, full-featured DSLR cameras," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. "The EOS Rebel SL1 combines the high speed, high image quality and expanded shooting range of a DSLR camera, with the easy and fun usability of a point-and-shoot camera."

Advanced Image Quality in a Compact Body
As the world's smallest and lightest DSLR, the new camera body is 4.6" (w) x 3.57" (h) x 2.74" (d), and weighs only 14.36 oz.** In comparison, the EOS Rebel SL1 is approximately 25 percent smaller and 28 percent lighter than the EOS Rebel T4i digital camera.

The EOS Rebel SL1 features an 18 megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor that performs exceptionally well in both bright and dimly lit shooting environments with an ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to H: 25600) for photos and ISO-6400 (expandable to H: 12800) for video. Canon's DIGIC 5 Image Processor technology allows for exceptional image quality and shooting speed up to four frames per second (fps).

The camera includes a new nine-point center cross-type autofocus (AF) system to help achieve fast, sharp focus. The new AF system also includes a new Hybrid CMOS AF II sensor, which provides a wider focus area when shooting photos or video in Live View mode, and a continuous AF speed that's increased from previous EOS models.

To help capture video with ease, the EOS Rebel SL1 features Canon's Movie Servo AF, which provides continuous AF tracking of moving subjects. When shooting video with one of Canon's new STM lenses, such as the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM (available in the standard lens kit), Movie Servo AF takes advantage of the lens' stepping motor for smooth and quiet continuous AF. The camera is capable of Full HD shooting in a number of recording sizes and frame rates, and enables easy manual control of exposure, focus and Live View features. The combination of Canon's new Hybrid CMOS AF system II and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is ideal for shooting video helping to ensure only the sounds of the scene are recorded.

Allowing for clear and easy viewing even in bright environments, the Touch Screen three inch Clear View LCD monitor II provides a rich and expansive display as well as providing intuitive touch panel operation. Two finger touch gestures (multi-touch) can be easily used for zooming or changing images, accessing menu and quick control settings, and activating focus point and shutter release while shooting.

Creativity at your Fingertips

The EOS Rebel SL1 encourages users to explore their creative side with a wide array of features for convenience and simple shooting. The EOS Rebel SL1 is equipped with Scene Intelligent Auto Mode, an advanced function that detects faces, colors, brightness, movement, contrast, distance and other factors and automatically adjusts and selects the exposure method needed. The results are photos with a wide dynamic range, ideal for users without advanced photography knowledge or experience.

Users can also access advanced imaging features like the new Effect Shot mode, which automatically creates two different shots, one with a selected creative filter and one without. In addition, Creative Filters and Background Blur Simulation can now be displayed in real time during Live View shooting. Editing photos is also a snap with the Rebel SL1's in-camera editing and cropping functionality. This feature allows users to view and crop the image using the camera's LCD touch screen and save the edited version as a separate file.

For those who would like to take beautiful photos with ease, the EOS Rebel SL1 offers a variety of scene modes to explore. New special scene modes include Kids, Food and Candlelight, giving users advanced presets to help ensure the best possible photos even under difficult shooting conditions.

Pricing and Availability

The new EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera is scheduled to be available in April for an estimated retail price of $649.99 for the body alone or $799.99 bundled with the new EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM kit lens.

For more information about the EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera, visit www.usa.canon.com/ExperienceEOSRebelSL1. For EOS Rebel SL1 product specifications or information on the entire EOS Rebel line of cameras, visit www.usa.canon.com/eos.

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 $40 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents registered in 2012† and is one of Fortune Magazine's World’s Most Admired Companies in 2013. 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.

###

† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

* Among digital SLR cameras which use APS-C size equivalent sensors. As of March 1, 2013.

** Weight specifications are for camera body only; does not include battery or memory card






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Fujifilm Announces New Wifi Enabled Long Zoom S8400w All-In-One Bridge Camera That Delivers Amazing Images And Easy Sharing

WEBWIRE - Friday, March 22, 2013 - FUJIFILM North America Corporation announces its newest all-in-one bridge camera, the FinePix S8400W that is WiFi® enabled and uses a precision 44x optical long zoom (24-1056mm) FUJINON lens. The new S8400W features an improved CMOS sensor, advanced processing power and amazing optics to give consumers a great combination of photographic versatility in an easy-to-use and compact design.

“The new FinePix S8400W is a long zoom bridge camera with amazing performance and high speed operation giving photo enthusiasts the range and quality that they are looking for,” said David Troy, Director of Marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “And with its built-in WiFi, users can easily connect and upload their favorite images to their smartphone or tablet for quick online sharing.”

Powerful Optical Zoom and Potent Optical Image Stabilization
The S8400W boasts a 44x optical zoom lens with fast aperture of F2.9 to F6.5, an amazing Optical Image Stabilization system for excellent blur reduction and is capable of a Super Macro mode for users to get as close as 0.39” from a subject for great close-up shots. This all in one FUJINON lens consists of 17 elements in 12 groups, and combines aspherical and ED elements that help to reduce aberrations and promote a superior level of image quality.

Fast Autofocus and Quick Response Times
The FinePix S8400W has an impressive 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor that captures excellent quality, low noise shots at sensitivities as high as ISO 12800. With autofocus speeds of 0.3 seconds*1, start-up times of 1.0 seconds*2, a 0.5 seconds*2 interval between shots and a continuous shooting speed of up to 10fps (max 10 frames at full resolution)*2, users can feel confident about capturing a fast-action shot. And with its ultra-high-speed shooting of up to 60fps (max 60 frames, image size 1280 × 960) and up to 120fps (max 60 frames, image size 640 × 480), the S8400W lets users capture the action in slow-motion for advanced photography.

Enhanced Wireless Image Transfer Function
The FinePix S8400W’s new wireless feature lets you transfer photos and movies*3 from the camera to smartphones, tablets and computers and then upload high-quality images to social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter in seconds.

To connect the S8400W to a smartphone or tablet, users can download the free dedicated “FUJIFILM Camera Application” to their iPhone™ / iPad™ or Android™ smartphone or tablet device to transfer up to 30 pictures at a time from the S8400W. The app also lets you download movies*3, expanding the range of options available for enjoying pictures taken with the camera.

With its Wi-Fi capability, the S8400W also allows users to easily back up photos on their home computer. Users simply install the free “FUJIFILM PC AutoSave” software onto their computer and select which folder they want the photos to back up to, and then by linking a Wi-Fi Router and the S8400W, the camera will automatically backup photos to their home computer.

Pictures stored on the S8400W can be viewed and selected for download on large smartphone or tablet screens for a smooth viewing experience. No wireless LAN access point or complicated ID or password entry is required, and once pictures have been downloaded to the smartphone, it is simple to upload them to social networking sites.

Easy to Use
The FinePix S8400W has an easy to use Mode Dial for shooting selection, dual zoom control for speed and precision zooming, and a bright 3.0” LCD screen (460K-dot) and electronic view finder (EVF) with 201K-dot resolution for easy viewing and image framing.

Full HD movie 1080i/60fps with Stereo Sound
The FinePix S8400W makes movie recording as easy as taking pictures using the dedicated movie button to start recording instantly. The high resolution, 1080i movie capture at 60fps with stereo sound and slow-motion capture at 480fps*4 is superb when played back on HDTV screens, and users can even take still photos during video recording. The S8400W also adds a number of in-camera movie editing features including “movie trimming” and “movie join.”

Artistic shooting effects
The FinePix S8400W uses advanced in-camera filters that bring creative photography to life. The S8400W artistic effects include:
  • Pop color – emphasizes contrast and color saturation
  • Toy camera – create shaded borders as if you were taking a photo on a toy camera
  • Miniature effect – blurs the top and bottom of the frame for a diorama effect
  • Partial color – retain one selected original color and change the rest of the photo to black and white (select from red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple)
  • Cross screen*5 – creates starbursts around bright objects
  • Soft Focus*5 – create a look that is evenly soft throughout the whole image

FinePix S8400W key features:
  • FUJINON super zoom Lens (24mm wide-angle, fast apertures of F2.9 to F6.5)
  • 1/2.3” 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor:
  1. Autofocus speed of 0.3 second*1 in fastest conditions
  2. Continuous shooting; 10fps (max 10frames, full resolution), 60fps (max 60 frames, image size 1280 × 960) ,120fps (max 60 frames, image size 640 × 480)
  3. Start-up time of 1.0 second
  4. Shooting interval time of 0.5 second
  • Wireless Image Transfer to smartphones and tablets
  • Full HD movie 1080i/60 fps with stereo sound and slow-motion capture at 480fps*3
  • Bright 3.0” LCD screen (460K-dot)
  • Electronic viewfinder (201K-dot)
  • Super Macro to 0.39”
  • Manual exposure control (P/S/A/M modes)
  • Dual zoom control
  • Advanced Filters
  • Instant zoom and Zoom Bracketing
  • 4×AA alkaline batteries with approximately 300 shot battery life
*1 35mm format equivalent
*2 FUJIFILM research based on CIPA standards
*3 FUJIFILM Camera Application for iOS can save movie files up to 1280 x 720
*4 High Speed Movie can be recorded at the following speeds and sizes: 480fps (320 x 120 pixels), 240fps (320 x 240 pixels), 120fps (640 x 480 pixels)
*5 Only in post shooting view

Pricing and Availability
The FinePix S8400W will be available May 2013 at the price of $349.95.

For complete specs, please go to: https://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/showcase/index.html

About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a marketing subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings America Corporation consists of five operating divisions and one subsidiary company. The Imaging Division sells consumer and commercial photographic products and services including film, one-time-use cameras, online photo services and fulfillment, digital printing equipment and service. The Electronic Imaging Division markets consumer digital cameras. The Motion Picture Division provides motion picture archival film, and the Graphic Systems Division supplies products and services to the printing industry. The Optical Devices Division provides binoculars, and optical lenses for closed circuit television, videography, cinematography, broadcast and industrial markets. FUJIFILM Canada Inc. markets a range of Fujifilm products and services. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmusa.com/northamerica, or go to www.twitter.com/fujifilmus to follow Fujifilm on Twitter. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe at www.fujifilmusa.com/rss. FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Tokyo, Japan, brings continuous innovation and leading-edge products to a broad spectrum of industries, including electronic imaging, digital printing equipment, medical systems, life sciences, graphic arts, flat panel display materials, and office products, based on a vast portfolio of digital, optical, fine chemical and thin film coating technologies. The company was among the top 10 companies around the world granted U.S. patents in 2011, and in the year ended March 31, 2012, had global revenues of $27.8 billion*. Fujifilm is committed to environmental stewardship and good corporate citizenship. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmholdings.com.
* At an exchange rate of 79 yen to the dollar

All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their registered owners.




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Friday, March 22, 2013

Photography Masters Cup Honors Photographer Hernan Rodriguez From The United States

Los Angeles, February 20, 2013 - Professional photographer Hernan Rodriguez of the United  States, was presented with the 6th Annual Photography Masters Cup Nominee title in the category of Fashion, at a prestigious Nomination & Winners Photoshow. The live online ceremony webcast Saturday, February 16, 2013 was attended by photography fans in 86 countries who logged on to se the climax of the industry's most important event for color photography.

The awards international Jury included captains of the industry from Phillips de Pury & Company in New York; Kunst Licht Gallery, Shanghai; CPO Gallery, Paris; Tasveer Galleries, India; BFN, Netherlands; to BBH in London who honored Color Masters with 239 coveted title awards in 18 categories.

"It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from the 8,521 entries we received this year," said Basil O'Brien, the awards Creative Director. "Tiffany", an exceptional image entered in the Fashion category, represents contemporary color photography at its finest, and we're pleased to present hernan, with the title of Nominee."

International Color Awards, Photography Masters Cup is the leading international award honoring excellence in color photography. This celebrated event shines a spotlight on the best professional and amateur photographers worldwide and honors the finest images with the highest achievements in color photography.
www.photomasterscup.com

Contact: Hernan Photography
Website: www.hernanphotography.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HernanPhotography






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Monday, March 18, 2013

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