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. 
³iPhone, 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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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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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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The Hasselblad Masters Awards: Evolution

One of the most prestigious photographic awards programmes in the world - described by one Hasselblad Master as 'like winning a Nobel prize'- is set for the next step in its evolution.

As the curtain comes down on the world-acclaimed Masters Awards Programme 2012 it is already rising again with a 2014 agenda that includes two new photo-categories - Project//21 and Underwater. The competition is also now open to photographers shooting with cameras of 16MP and above, regardless of the camera's brand or format.

What happened in 2012:

The names of the eleven 2012 winners (selected from 110 finalists and from over 2,500 submissions) were first revealed at the beginning of the year and their individual work projects for the special'Evoke'Masters book project began immediately. These highly accomplished photographers have been equipped with the latest Hasselblad equipment and focused on challenging their own creative boundaries for the project.

The biennial Masters Awards competition is organised to coincide withphotokinaand in September 2012, in the Boulevard of Competitions area at the Kölnmesse, tens of thousands of visitors to the world's largest imaging trade fair, were entranced by the ultra large series of'Evoke'prints.

After photokina the 2012 three continents Masters Winners 2012 Tour was jam-packed at every venue; Tokyo, New York, Los Angeles, Berlin and London - before its conclusion in Shanghai.

Photographers were invited to test Hasselblad cameras, shoot with a Master in a studio environment, engage in a seminar experience and chat with experts at social evening events.

What happens next:

Nearly four thousand photographers submitted images (by the August 31st, 2012deadline) in a total of twelve categories: Fine Art, Landscapes/Nature, Wedding/Social, Portrait, Fashion/Beauty, Editorial, Products, Architectural, General, Wildlife, Project//21 and Underwater.

For the first time in the history of the competition Hasselblad has 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.

Winners of the 2014 awards will have use of Hasselblad equipment for a period of approximately four months to create a new set of images for the fourth special Masters Commemorative Book and will receive a trophy at photokina 2014. All winning images will also be published on the Hasselblad global website and then presented at exhibitions around the world.

The internal Hasselblad jury has already begun the process of shortlisting 120 finalists - ten photographers in each category.

The finalists will be announced in January 2013 and the public has the chance to vote for their favourite image.

www.hasselblad.com/masters

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BenVista releases PhotoZoom 5

ARNHEM, December 4, 2012 -- Today BenVista announced the release of their new photo resizing software PhotoZoom 5. The release includes two versions, PhotoZoom Pro 5 and PhotoZoom Classic 5, which are available for both Windows and Mac platforms as of now.

The PhotoZoom series is specialized in enlarging and downsizing digital images while preserving their original quality, for which it uses BenVista's patented, award-winning S-Spline(R) technologies. PhotoZoom 5 also removes noise and JPEG compression artifacts. Besides compatibility with Windows 8 and OS X 10.8 (Mountain Lion), PhotoZoom 5 introduces various new features and improvements.

Version 5 offers the option to combine cropping and resizing into one process. This makes it easy to for example convert a photo with a 4:3 width-to-height ratio into 16:9 (Full HD), without stretching the picture out of its original proportions. Instead, a specific area with proportions equal to the output image is selected and resized.

BenVista's most advanced technology for enlarging and downsizing images is S-Spline Max. Although the technology creates excellent results, it also requires a lot of computing power. To reduce processing time, PhotoZoom Pro 5 now uses both multi-core processors and GPU acceleration.

Says D.S. Schoolwerth, CEO at BenVista, "Quality-wise, S-Spline Max was already the number one image enlargement method in the world. But it was not the fastest method around, so we are much pleased by the addition of GPU acceleration. It allows PhotoZoom Pro 5 to produce image enlargements of the same excellent quality as PhotoZoom Pro 4, but it does the job up to five times faster."

PhotoZoom 5 comes with a redesigned interface layout, making it more accessible, flexible, and user-friendly. Another workflow improvement is the new option to create "resize profiles". These are full compilations of the user's favorite settings which, once created, can be selected with a single click.

Demo versions of PhotoZoom Pro 5 and PhotoZoom Classic 5 can be downloaded directly from the BenVista website: www.benvista.com. Upgrade options are available for existing PhotoZoom users.

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The Model Agency Super Site, UK Model Agencies, Announce A Record Breaking Month With More Unique Visits Than Ever Before

http://www.ukmodelagencies.co.uk proves they have the secret to modelling success. The largest online model agency directory in the UK has just announced record figures with more visitors than ever to their winning websites all about modelling. The company with a team of experts dedicated to dishing out model advice, news and information, are delighted with their new visitor stats for the busy month of October. Over 25,000 unique visits is an early Christmas present they say.

London, UK (PRWEB UK) 23 November 2012 - It's been a bumper month for model visitors, according to the team at UK Model Agencies. Recording more unique visitors than ever before, October has been a record breaking month and November is certainly shaping up to beat that.

'I think it's down to the fact that we have a very readable and enjoyable website,' says Jim Dawson, Chief Press Officer for UK Model Agencies. 'We pride ourselves on sourcing new information, anything we feel would help a model either starting out in the modelling industry or one who has already established their career. Our text is aimed at all levels of experience and there is something for everyone. We have a really dedicated team here who all have their own experience, who love to share their knowledge, making UK Model Agencies a website a model can rely on.'

UK Model Agencies have been at the forefront of the modelling industry for many years, creating a website dedicated entirely to model advice, model information and the biggest comprehensive list of model agencies in the UK. Each day the winning team research up to date and relevant aspects of the entire modelling industry and update their website accordingly, proving a hit with aspiring models all over the country and internationally too.

'We have a really fantastic team here,' commented Helen Stark, fashion editor for UKMA. 'We each specialise in various forms of the modelling industry and we all have our own bits which we love to do. One of my mainly jobs is to research what's hot and what's not, updating and reporting the model news articles daily. I have to scour the Internet, the fashion magazines and peak newspapers for any juicy model gossip, sourcing all the interesting information and relevant articles which our readers will find interesting. It's really tough having to learn all about the latest celebrity gossip and get paid for it,' she laughs.

UKMA and their partners, La Mode London, the model advice specialists and commercial photography company in the heart of modelling London, offer honest and open modelling advice. Between the two companies, they show models how to make the industry work for them and how to break into the industry. They shout about anything which is useful or helpful to a model at any stage in their career. As well as reporting all the latest model gossip and fashion news, they update their huge directory of model agencies throughout the UK, also providing a comprehensive list of modelling photographers in a model's hometown.

'By doing what we do and adding to the website daily,' says Jim, 'it keeps the site relevant and up-to-date, but it also gives me great pleasure because I love a bit of showbiz gossip and it's certainly not a chore.'

The model agency directory certainly keeps their ears to the ground and the results are proving positive, with reports of their highest visitor numbers than ever seen in their website history.
Jim says,' we are all delighted with the results. It really has been a very, very busy week with nearly 30,000 e-mails sent out to our partners clients, updating models and keeping them in the know. We inform them of latest modelling jobs and casting calls as soon as we hear about them, because it is so important for a model to keep their eye on the ball, to keep up-to-date with news and never let an opportunity pass them by.'

Visit http://www.ukmodelagencies.co.uk and keep up-to-date with gossip, fashion facts and figures, a website full to bursting with all the latest advice a model need.

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FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES LTO ULTRIUM GENERATION 6 DATA CARTRIDGES

First LTO in the world produced with Barium Ferrite magnetic particles

Valhalla, N.Y., November 21, 2012 — FUJIFILM Recording Media U.S.A., Inc., a division of FUJIFILM Corporation, a leading global manufacturer of data storage media, today introduced its new LTO Ultrium 6 data cartridge.  The Fujifilm LTO Ultrium 6 cartridge is the first in the world produced with Barium Ferrite magnetic particles using Fujifilm’s core NANOCUBIC technology.  The LTO Ultrium 6 cartridge offers a super high compressed (2.5x) storage capacity of 6.25TB with a transfer rate of up to 400 megabytes per second.

“At Fujifilm, our technological advances are based on Fujifilm’s proprietary core technologies, and these help us meet the rapidly increasing demands that our customers have for long term file storage and data management,” said Peter Faulhaber, president, Fujifilm Recording Media USA, Inc. “Fujifilm chose to use Barium Ferrite magnetic particles instead of the current metal particles, because Barium Ferrite is chemically stable, which leads to enhanced performance and longer archival life.”

Nano Technology
Fujifilm LTO Ultrium 6 data cartridges use Fujifilm’s advanced NANOCUBIC coating process, which incorporates three Fujifilm proprietary technologies:

• Nano-particle Technology:  Finer particles (30% smaller than metal particle used on LTO-5)
• Nano-dispersion Technology:  Uniform particle dispersion by applying high-dispersed binder.
• Nano-coating Technology:  Improved ultra-thin layer coating to realize an even thinner magnetic layer.

As part of Fujifilm’s overall commitment to develop environmentally sustainable products, Fujifilm’s LTO Ultrium 6 cartridge offers a reduction on its impact on the environment by eliminating brominated flame retardants (BFRs) from all the mechanical parts of Fujifilm LTO-6 cartridges. Tape is already viewed by many in the data storage industry to have less of an impact on the environment than other storage options because it consumes less energy.

LTO technology is a powerful, scalable, adaptable open tape format developed and enhanced by the Technology Provider Companies (TPC) – HP, IBM and Quantum – to help address the growing demands of data protection in the midrange to enterprise-class server environments.

LTO Ultrium 6 Features
Fujifilm LTO Ultrium 6 cartridges offer more space to record specific cartridge information, with the introduction of a 16K Cartridge Memory (IC chip).  This feature allows the user to record cartridge load/unload history and easily monitor the cartridge health.

Fujifilm’s unique high-rigidity reel design prevents hub deformation, which could result in tape edge damage.  This feature is particularly important as the tape length gets longer and thinner.

In addition, Fujifilm LTO Ultrium 6 cartridges with BaFe have a long archival life (over 30 years) and show good performance when used with older drives that have aged from repeated use.

LTO Generation 6 hardware will be backward write compatible with LTO Ultrium 5 data cartridges and backward read compatible with LTO Ultrium 4 data cartridges.  As with the previous generation, LTO Ultrium 6 hardware will incorporate the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Linear Tape File System (LTFS) dual partitioning functionality.

Fujifilm’s newest line-up will include an LTO Ultrium 6 WORM cartridge for Write-Once Read-Many applications, such as data storage compliance standards which require a non-rewriteable format.

Largest LTO Assembly Plant in the World
To meet the growing demands of the LTO industry, Fujifilm has restructured its U.S. manufacturing facility in Bedford, Massachusetts to increase the assembly capacity, allowing for greater flexibility and Just-in-time (JIT) Manufacturing.   As a result, this facility has become the largest LTO assembly plant in the world.

Fujifilm LTO Ultrium 6 data cartridges will be available through approved Fujifilm resellers.
For more information on LTO tape technology, product roadmaps and for general information on the format, visit www.ultrium.com.

About NANOCUBIC and Barium-Ferrite magnetic particles
Already recognized by the industry as an enterprise-class tape solution, Fujifilm NANOCUBIC technology combines nano-scale particles, a unique dual-coating process and advanced dispersion techniques to achieve an ultra-thin magnetic layer that produces higher resolution for recording digital data, ultra-low noise and high signal-to-noise ratios that are ideal for Magneto-Resistive and Giant Magneto-Resistive heads. Fujifilm’s newest generation tape storage media applies NANOCUBIC technology to barium-ferrite particles, a naturally stable crystalline particle that does not corrode or change chemically over time, making it an optimal particle for data storage applications. Due to the crystalline anisotropy, the ultra-fine barium-ferrite particles have high coercivity for superior performance high-density recording. The unique Fujifilm NANOCUBIC technology coats the barium-ferrite particles in a very uniform manner (with thickness variation of less than 10 percent across the length of the tape), resulting in a much smoother magnetic surface to significantly enhance performance.

About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM Recording Media U.S.A., Inc. is the US-based manufacturing, marketing and sales operations of professional broadcast video and data tape recording media for FUJIFILM Corporation. The company provides broadcast and data center customers and industry partners with a wide range of unique data center accessories, value-added services and programs. Based on a history of thin-film engineering and magnetic particle science such as Fujifilm NANOCUBIC technology, Fujifilm creates breakthrough data storage products. For more information on Fujifilm Recording Media products, customers can call  800-488-3854  or go to www.fujifilmusa.com/tapestorage. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe free 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.

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OLYMPUS INTRODUCES A NEW BRIGHT F1.8 MICRO FOUR THIRDS® LENS FOR BRILLIANT SNAPSHOTS IN CHALLENGING SITUATIONS

New M.ZUIKO® DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 High-Grade Lens Easily Captures Spontaneous Moments in Remarkable Detail

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., November 15, 2012 – Today, Olympus adds to the Micro Four Thirds family of lenses with the release of the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 lens (34mm in 35mm equivalent), a bright, wide-angle, single-focal-length lens ideal for snapshot street shooting, landscape photography or capturing subjects in challenging low-light environments. This high quality, compact lens features a stunning metal body and a Snapshot Focus mechanism for pan focusing with a distance indicator. 

The M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 has nine carefully placed lens elements in six groups to deliver sharp images of subjects with beautiful, eye-catching depth of field. The advanced optical system features three aspherical lenses, including a Dual Super Aspherical element to correct aberrations, as well as a High Refractive index lens to correct high spherical aberrations. Each lens element is polished to an ultra-high level of working precision only possible with the progressive techniques developed by Olympus master craftsmen, and carefully assembled to ensure maximum accuracy and reliability. Olympus’ exclusive ZERO (ZUIKO Extra-low Reflection Optical Coating) lens coatings are applied to the elements to reduce lens flare and ghost images even when shooting against the light.

The Snapshot Focus mechanism lets users easily take spontaneous, blur-free images by shifting the focusing point to a specific distance. Sliding the focus ring back reveals range markings on the lens barrel, including distance and depth of field scales, which can be used as guides as the user adjusts the focal distance by rotating the ring.

With a total length of just 1.4 inches, the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 is incredibly compact and adds to the rapidly growing lineup of Olympus Micro Four Thirds lenses that enhance the performance and versatility of Olympus OM-D® and PEN® Compact System Cameras. The sophisticated, textured metallic finish projects a stylish, classic look that complements the design of Olympus® compact system cameras.
Ideal for capturing brilliant still images and high-definition (HD) videos, the lens employs Olympus' proven MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) autofocusing mechanism featuring an inner focus system to drive this single-focal-length lens for fast and quiet focusing.

The optional LH-48B Lens Hood and LC-48B Lens Cap are designed exclusively for the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 and both are elegant in design with a finely textured metallic outer finish and distinctive, classic appearance. The Olympus VF-1 optical viewfinder, originally developed for use with the M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f2.8 lens, is also compatible with the new lens.

U.S. Pricing and Availability
The Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 17mm f1.8 Lens will be available in December. Estimated Street Price: $499.99

For a complete list of specifications, visit the Olympus website: http://www.getolympus.com/us/en/lenses/m-zuiko-digital-17mm-f1-8.html


ABOUT OLYMPUS IMAGING AMERICA INC.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets.

Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhance people’s lives every day. These include:

• Digital Cameras
• Professional and Interchangeable Lens System Cameras
• Related Underwater Products and Accessories
• Digital and Microcassette Recorders
• Digital Media
• Binoculars

Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. For more information, visit: www.olympusamerica.com.

*Specifications and design are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer. All trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective holder. ©2012 Olympus Imaging America Inc.

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European Commission-backed Project to Boost Digital Content Forges Ahead

Linked Content Coalition will Make Online Content more Accessible and User-friendly

Nov 21. 2012 by CEPIC_2 - This media industry-led technical project, that aims to create the basis for a universally recognisable way to communicate rights information for online content, is forging ahead. The objective is to create something that would achieve what the banking sector’s “IBAN” achieves. The IBAN allows transactions to take place between banks all over the world despite each bank having their own internal systems. The LCC work will enable a similar level of functionality for accessing, using and sharing all kinds of digital content whether that be text, music or film, for example. Every sector has its own system for expressing and managing rights. LCC is doing the groundwork to make it possible to create that umbrella layer of communication over the whole content sector like the IBAN. ​

Progress of the technical work was presented at the project’s second plenary in Brussels last week and it is clear already that the LCC is on track to create a unique rights reference model for the entire content sector. Some of the draft technical papers can be viewed at: http://www.linkedcontentcoalition.org.

The project, that will be subject to peer review and testing, is due for completion in January 2013.

• Click here for more information.

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The Nikon Photo Contest 2012-2013: A Call for Entries

This Year’s 2012-2013 Nikon Photo Contest Seeks to Join Amateur and Professional Photographers from Around the World in a Celebration of Creativity and Photographic Vision

TOKYO, JAPAN – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce a call for entries to the 2012-2013 Nikon Photo Contest, one of the largest international photo contests in the world. Nikon hopes to provide an opportunity for photographers of all types to express themselves and showcase their creative work.  For the 34^th installment of the contest, Nikon has added categories for video, “Motion Snapshots” taken with Nikon 1 system cameras, and a Participants’ Award for the most popular entry, chosen by contest entrants. Entries can be submitted from December 1, 2012 through February 28, 2013.

Held since 1969, the Nikon Photo Contest (NPC), formally known as the Nikon Photo Contest International (NPCI), was created with the goal of “contributing to the development of photographic culture by providing a venue of communication among photographers from around the world, be they professionals or amateurs.”

For this year’s contest, Nikon is seeking entries in four categories:

Category A: Single photo
Category B: Composite photo – composed of a series of two to five photographs
Category C: Photographic videos – featuring videos up to 45 seconds in length
Category D: Motion Snapshot – combination of still images/movies available with the Nikon 1 system line of cameras

The judges include active and well-known international photographers who will select a total of 54 works to be given first, second and third prizes in each category, in addition to a Grand Prize for the most outstanding overall entry. A new addition this year is a “Participants’ Award” given to the most popular entry chosen by the contest entrants. Winning entries will be announced in the summer of 2013 and will be included in a public exhibition (location and date to be announced).

Guidelines for the Nikon Photo Contest 2012-2013

Eligibility
The contest is open to all professional and amateur photographers, regardless of age, sex or nationality.

Theme
No theme is specified for any of the four categories.

Entry Period
December 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013

How to Enter
Entries must be submitted online. Visit the Nikon Photo Contest 2012-2013 website (www.nikon-photocontest.com), complete the entry form and submit your work.

Submissions
Each entry is limited to a total of ten works in categories A and B: for example, two entries of one photograph each in the single photo category and one entry of four photographs in the composite category would total six works.
The same works or portions of the same works cannot be submitted in both Category A and B.
Each entrant can submit one work in each of categories C and D. These works can be in addition to works submitted in categories A and B.
Entry is restricted to original works that have not been published and to which the entrant holds the rights.
Works that have been submitted to other previous or ongoing contests will not be accepted. This includes those that are submitted to another contest after being entered in the Nikon Photo Contest.

Eligible Works
Categories A and B
Image data files created with digital cameras (including medium and large format cameras)
Images that have been retouched using software or by other means will be accepted
Both color and monochrome images will be accepted (Scans of photographs taken with film cameras are not eligible)
File Size: Up to 20MB
File Format: JPEG/150 dpi recommended
The standard color space for the judging process is sRGB
Entrants may be requested to provide higher resolution images for publication or display purposes related to the contest

Category C
Movie files containing videos created from footage shot using the movie recording function on digital still cameras (including medium and large format cameras)
Length: 45 seconds
Each movie entered must be in MOV format, with a file size 200MB or less
Any music used must be either copyright-free and performed and recorded by the entrant or a person designated by the entrant (commercial recordings of copyright-free music may not be used) or be works for which the entrant holds the rights and for which the rights have not been transferred to a copyright collective.
Category D
Motion Snapshot files created with the Motion Snapshot feature on Nikon 1 cameras
Entries must be in MOV format

Judging/Announcement of Results
Entries will be published to the Nikon Photo Contest website after the first round of judging following the completion of the entry period. Current plans call for entries to be published at the end of April, 2013. The final winners will be determined after the second and final rounds of judging in April and June, respectively, with the final results announced on the Nikon Photo Contest Website in the summer of 2013.  All entrants will be eligible to vote for the “Participants’ Award” for most popular entry. To learn more about Nikon’s judges from around the world, please visit www.nikon-photocontest.com/en/#/judge.

Awards and Prizes
All winners will receive trophies and prizes of Nikon products with values determined by the type of prize.  The most outstanding entry in categories A, B and C will receive the Grand Prize, while 48 additional prizes will be awarded in categories A, B and C for first, second and third place winners. The top three entries in category D will receive prizes as well.

The “Participants’ Award” winner and “NIKKOR Award” winner (best work shot with a NIKKOR lens) will be awarded prize money and a trophy. An exhibition of the prize-winning works will be held in 2013 at a date and time to be determined. The Grand Prize winner and first-place finishers in each category will be given the right to post other works to a photo gallery on the Nikon Photo Contest 2012-2013 website.

Notes

1. The Grand Prize will not be awarded if no eligible entry is submitted.
2. All winners will receive a trophy.
3. Non-cash prizes may not be exchanged, transferred, or redeemed for cash.

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 new Nikon 1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens system. In 2012, production of NIKKOR lenses surpassed 70 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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Sirqul Announces Appture Redesign and Feature Updates

PRZOOM - /newswire/ - Seattle, WA, United States, 10/29/2012 - Appture’s new update includes a sleek, new design, the ability to take multiple photos at one time, support for iPhone 5 and iOS 6, and more - Sirqul.com. When users update, they are welcome to a black and light gray theme. The intuitive user experience remains in tact. Users will intuitively enjoy private group photo and audio sharing, therefore Sirqul recommends upgrading to this latest version as soon as possible. Appture has streamlined the photo taking process by allowing users to take multiple photos at the camera screen while also allowing audio to be recorded. For instance, now users can take pictures of their friends’ karaoke audio performance without worrying about missing the perfect shot. This allows users to share more photos faster, with the people that matter the most. But that’s not all that this update of Appture has to offer. Appture has also been optimized for iPhone 5 and iOS 6. “We know there are a lot of people who have upgraded to iOS 6 or have purchased an iPhone 5. We wanted to be sure we provided an end-to-end experience from legacy iOS devices to the very latest iOS devices.” –Jim Harkins, CEO of Sirqul, Inc. Users only have to add an album title. Users can now fill in the appropriate album information and invite friends and family at their convenience. Even with these great updates, Appture retains its simple charm. Voice and audio are key differentiators that have been improved for quality and reliability. Users are still able to leave voice comments, annotate their photos, chat in real-time, edit their photos with custom filters, and integrate with their existing photo accounts on various social networks. About Sirqul, Inc. Appture is powered by Sirqul.com, a Seattle-based startup that has created a ubiquitous social platform enabling consumers and brands to create their own distributed, Social-Location-Mobile solutions as a means of driving awareness and engagement through viral adoption. Appture is the first of many applications that will be released this fall. For more information about Sirqul and Appture, visit their website.

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THE ALL NEW GH3 – CHANGING PHOTOGRAPHY Engineered For the Multimedia Photographer

September 17, 2012 (Secaucus, NJ) – Panasonic is proud to introduce the new Digital Single Lens Mirrorless DMC-GH3.  The LUMIX GH3 is not just a compact, lightweight camera. It is an attractive, top-of-the-line mirrorless single lens system camera that is tough enough to withstand the extreme conditions of heavy field use.

The new Live MOS Sensor achieves high-resolution images with minimum noise. And the new Venus Engine attains high-speed, high-quality signal processing. These features combine to maximize shooting fun and operating ease. Another prominent feature of the LUMIX GH3 is a tough body that is rugged enough to stand up to professional use. It features a magnesium alloy full diecast body and advanced splash / dustproof construction that was achieved by sealing the sections of the camera body to enable shooting under extreme conditions. Although the LUMIX GH3 integrates features a class above other G Series models, it is still compact when compared with an SLR camera featuring equivalent performance and functions. The body has enabled a new control layout with three dials on the front and back as well as single-function buttons. The LUMIX GH3 allows users to capture images in extreme environments and provides superb mobility. It also records still images consecutively at a rate of about 6 fps. The LUMIX GH3 is proud to assume the role of Panasonic's flagship digital single-lens mirrorless camera.

The video recording capability, which is highly acclaimed in the GH2, now comes with more variety of options in its format and bit rate to meet wide-ranging needs. It is packed with advanced technologies developed by Panasonic for professional video creation.

The LUMIX GH3 uses OLED displays both in its viewfinder and in the rear free-angle monitor. Panasonic has also developed optional accessories to expand the shooting possibility of DMC-GH3. A detachable battery grip DMW-BGGH3 for vertical viewing angle, integrates control featuring splash/dustproof design. The external TTL flash DMW-FL360L comes with wireless function and even integrates LED for video recording. A Stereo Shotgun microphone DMW-MS2 is also available. They represent a first of their kind for Panasonic LUMIX cameras.

Panasonic also offers a full lineup of lenses that reinforce the LUMIX GH3. The LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. (H-HS12035) is currently on the market. In addition to this, Panasonic is releasing a new fast F2.8 telephoto zoom lens LUMIX G X VARIO 35-100mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. (H-HS35100) to introduce with the LUMIX GH3. These two lenses achieve high resistance performance against splash and dust when combined with the LUMIX GH3.

The LUMIX G lens lineup includes a variety of models with superb image rendering, such as Leica lenses and smooth, silent power zoom lenses suitable for video recording. *This is the largest lineup of interchangeable lenses for a digital single lens mirrorless camera*. And Panasonic will continue to develop and introduce new lenses with distinctive features.

*As of 17, September 2012.

Delivering the highest ever picture quality with a new Live MOS sensor: The DMC-GH3 realizes high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction; high-grade lens and precision AF achieves high resolution, optimal balance of resolution and noise reduction achieves lifelike image rendering and high precision auto exposure and white balance with live light metering results in faithful color reproduction.

The newly developed 16.05 effective megapixel Live MOS sensor boasts wide dynamic range and high sensitivity image recording even at ISO 12,800 or ISO 25,600 in extended mode. The key point here was reducing noise, for which Panasonic focused on the following three areas: (1) minimizing noise in the sensor, (2) preventing sensor noise from entering the output signal, and (3) preventing noise from entering the signal processing circuit, power supply line and grounding line. To reduce noise, it is also important to design the power supply wiring and the signal wiring connected to the engine to be as close to the same length as possible. These measures not only suppress noise but also help to improve processing speed. Standard sensitivity is from ISO 200 to ISO 12,800, but the user can set sensitivity to ISO 125 or ISO 25,600 by using an extension function. The LPF (Low Pass Filter) has been also newly designed to minimize generation of moire while drawing maximum resolution of the image out of the sensor.

The image processor Venus Engine is also refined to achieve superior noise reduction. With a combination of 3DNR (3D Noise Reduction) and MNR (Multi-process Noise Reduction), both bright area and dark area are faithfully reproduced with minimum noise across the entire focusing range in high sensitivity image recording.

The built-in flash is enhanced to feature more power and flexibility. The new built-in flash of GN12 equivalent (ISO 100 •m) / GN17 equivalent (ISO 200 •m) covers 24mm wide angle of view. Synchronization for flash dimming and exposure compensation is available with adjustment of 1/3EV Step ±3EV. Manual control and a sync terminal are newly added for more versatile use of external flash.

The GH3 also integrates HDR (High Dynamic Range) to cope with the extreme bright and dark contrast that you get, for example, with backlighting, or when consecutive photos are taken with different exposure levels and overlapped. Blown highlights and blocked shadows are then deleted and a single photo is composed. All processing is done in the background, so you can take your next shot without having to wait, ensuring that you don't miss a photo opportunity.

Other practical shooting functions including Time Lapse Shot or Multiple Exposure are available on DMC-GH3. The electronic shutter with silent operation prevents pixel declination which is undesirable in photographing of commercial products.

Awesome quality of video for unlimited expressions – versatile recording formats, bitrate and frame rates:

Panasonic defies the conventional boundaries of a digital camera elevating the potential of video recording capability even higher. Users can freely choose the format from AVCHD, AVCHD Progressive, MP4 or MOV with the frame rate at 60p(NTSC), 30p(NTSC) or 24p according to the usage*. The DMC-GH3 is capable of recording ultra high bit rate video recorded at 72 Mbps (ALL-Intra) or 50 Mbps (IPB). And it is capable of recording continuously for an unlimited time**.

Heat generated during long continuous recording can cause problems. It not only affects internal components but can also degrade image quality. Effective thermal diffusion is an essential design challenge. By drawing on the expertise accumulated through its many years of developing camcorders, Panasonic has revamped and redesigned the electronic parts arrangement and internal structure to achieve the optimum layout. This has eliminated heat problems in the LUMIX GH3.

When recording the video in MOV, AVCHD Progressive and AVCHD, the DMC-GH3 automatically generates multiple seamless files for continuous recording. During playback, the AVCHD Progressive / AVCHD files are reproduced with seamless, interruption-free continuity. The DMC-GH3 also embeds SMPTE-compliant Time Code either in Rec Run or Free Run count-up methods, which makes it easy to synchronize the multiple video footage or sound source in the post production workflow. Time Code Value can be started at any point of [Reset], [Manual Input] and [Current Time]. Drop frame or Non Drop Frame time code is selectable***.

For high quality sound recording, DMC-GH3 adopts Dolby Digital® for AVCHD　Progressive /AVCHD videos and linear PCM(LPCM) for non-compressed video recorded in MOV. In addition to the built-in stereo microphone, the GH3 is equipped with two 3.5mm terminals for an external microphone and headphones to facilitate sound recording.

The DMC-GH3 also features Creative Video mode: Exposure mode and Slow/Fast-Motion mode. In the Exposure mode, four manual video modes: Program AE / Aperture-Priority / Shutter-Priority / Manual Exposure can be selected and they will faithfully reflect your shooting intent, and give you a wide range of video images. The Slow/Fast-Motion mode enables slow-motion (40% / 48% / 80%) and fast–motion (160% / 200% / 300%), all in Full-HD.

Not only full-time AF, AF Tracking and Face Recognition AF are also available. The Touch AF in video recording also lets users enjoy professional-like rack focusing. Just by pointing at the subject, the focus is shifted to it and lets it stand out to attract attention.

*60p(NTSC) video recording is not available in AVCHD and MP4 video recording.

**In the model for PAL areas, motion image can be recorded up to 29 min 59 sec.

***Available in the model for NTSC regions.

Intuitive response with nimble movement: All cameras in the LUMIX G assortment adopt Contrast AF for their focus system. Compared with the Phase difference system AF, the Contrast AF boasts higher accuracy when shooting with a bright lens with a wide open aperture.

The DMC-GH3 features ultra-high-speed AF which makes it possible to capture fast-moving subjects clearly. Both accuracy and speed are improved over high-end DSLRs with Phase difference AF with the GH3’s advanced Contrast AF system.  The camera and the lens exchange the digital signal at 240 fps to minimize the time to focus. Together with the quick start-up and short release time lag, the DMC-GH3 never lets photographers miss fleeting shooting opportunities.

The DMC-GH3 boasts high-precision, high-speed dual OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays for LVF (Live View Finder) and rear monitor. Increasing the resolution of the display area to 1,744K-dot equivalent, the new 16:9 Wide Screen LVF boasts approx.1.34x / 0.67x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification and 100% field of view and eye point of approximately 21 mm.  The 3.0-inch 614K-dot free-angle OLED rear monitor (3:2 aspect) with wide-viewing angle rotates 180° to the side and tilts 270° up and down offers approx. 100% of field of view. The OLED rear monitor adopts static touch control for smoother operation either in shooting or in playback.

The DMC-GH3 captures moving subjects clearly with the burst shooting at 6 fps in full resolution (max. 18 consecutive shots of RAW+JPEG) and 20 fps in 4-megapixel recording using an electronic shutter(max. 80 consecutive shots of JPEG).

Superb controllability and rugged design: Panasonic developed DMC-GH3 in pursuit of the best-balanced body design possible with the ergonomic grip and optimum layout of control buttons and dials. Each button has a single function to allow intuitive operation. Major controls such as shutter speed, exposure compensation, ISO and white balance settings can be quickly adjusted with the front/rear dials and rear jog dial.  Users can customize a total of 7 function buttons (5 in buttons and 2 in the touch menu tab) by allotting a function they use often. The control panel is fully redesigned enabling even more intuitive operation. The new LUMIX GH3 is tough enough to withstand heavy field use. The main structural features of the LUMIX GH3 are its magnesium alloy full diecast frame and splash / dustproof construction.

Like previous models, the LUMIX GH3 has many moving parts, such as the free-angle OLED rear monitor. Thus, ensuring a high level of splash / dust resistance was not an easy task. In particular, careful attention was given to the popup flash. To prevent vignetting caused by the lens, the popup flash incorporates a sliding mechanism that raises the flash to its operating position. Panasonic has taken thorough measures to prevent the entry of dust and water from this section. There are also splash/dust-proof interchangeable lenses (LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. and LUMIX G X VARIO 35-100mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S.) and the new Battery Grip DMW-BGGH3 to secure its high resistance.

A variety of interfaces: The DMC-GH3 comes with a variety of connection terminals for more flexible shooting options. The newly added 3.5mm microphone jack allows high quality audio recording using an external microphone. It also comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack enabling monitoring the recorded audio while shooting video real-time. The DMC-GH3 is also capable of real-time image output not only on the OLED display (LVF or the rear monitor) but also on the external monitor via an optional HDMI mini cable simultaneously while recording video. It is suitable for professional video that requires serious monitoring of the imagery. Users can choose to output only the recording content or the content with the setting menus individually depending on the display.

Creative Expression: The DMC-GH3 incorporates Photo Style and Creative Control for more unique expression tailored for the photographer.  With Photo Style, users can manually choose from 6 color types to get even more detailed image settings, or to match the shooting situation. In addition, the contrast, sharpness, saturation or noise reduction for each mode parameter can be customized in 11 steps and stored in memory. In Custom Mode, finely customized settings can be stored for easy recall and use.

The Creative Control lets you enjoy making the image even more impressive. A total of 14 filters are available - Expressive, Retro, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process, Toy Effect, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Star Filter and One Point Color. Most of the filters can be used in video recording, too. With the new GUI and menu tabs, switching filter effect is extremely easy and is possible to preview via the Live View. Effect parameter, defocusing area and exposure compensation are also adjustable.

Wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi: The DMC-GH3 integrates a built-in Wi-Fi® module for wireless connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) to expand shooting possibilities. A smartphone or a tablet can be used to remote control and a remote monitor. What the camera is seeing is displayed live smoothly on the smartphone/tablet, and it is possible to set various controls including focus, exposure compensation, ISO, WB and Photo Style in addition to shutter release via live view using Wi-Fi.

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