Hasselblad extends functionality of H4D System

27/09/2010 Hasselblad continues to improve the H4D System with two new HC lenses and a firmware upgrade.

Launched in September 2009, the H4D System not only marked a new line of cameras but it introduced new advanced technology to the world of photography with its unique True Focus and Absolute Position Lock features. With access to the renowned HC/HCD lens family, it's no wonder that the H4D has been so well received. The H4D camera line now offers several different models, including the H4D-40, which was designed to meet the needs of 35mm DSLR users who want to add medium format to their creative tools. The remaining H4D series includes models with 50 and 60 megapixel sensors as well as Hasselblad's unique multi-shot H4D-50MS.

Always striving to deliver the best camera system in the world to photographers, Hasselblad has introduced two new HC lenses, strengthening the H-System lens family with the new HC 50mm-II and the HC Macro 120mm-II. Both lenses have a new optical design delivering significantly improved performance. The new lenses are available now.

HC 50mm-II
The HC 50-II, with its moderately wide 35mm-equivalent focal length of 31.4mm, is a versatile, allpurpose lens that can be used for many different applications. The updated optical design provides higher resolution and more even performance over the image area. Close range performance has also been improved to deliver better performance while maintaining its minimum object-to-image plane distance of 0.6m. The lens features 11 elements in 7 groups, a rear focusing mechanism and a broad aperture range of f/3.5-f/32.

HC Macro 120mm-II
The HC Macro 120-II lens is also a very versatile lens, combining excellent macro capture capabilities (a minimum object-to-image plane distance of 0.39 m and a maximum image scale of 1:1) along with its slightly longer focal length making it ideal for product and portrait photography (35mm equivalent focal length of 73.5mm). Thanks to its updated optical design, the lens offers a number of improvements including higher resolution and better close range performance. Importantly - especially for macro work - the new lens offers improved color correction, with cleaner unsharp areas that are free from color cast. The front focusing lens utilizes 9 element in 9 groups, with an aperture range of f/4-f/45 that, when closed down, provides excellent depth-of-field.

In addition to the introduction of the two new lenses, Hasselblad will soon issue a free firmware update for the H4D system cameras in response to customer feedback and requests.

New H4D functionality extensions

Electronic spirit level:
With this new feature, a 3-dimensional virtual level is displayed on the rear LCD providing users with a guide to easily align the camera in both horizontal (landscape) and vertical (portrait) positions using two different graphical interfaces that automatically change according to the camera's orientation. Direct feed-back on the levelling is also present in the viewfinder. This is all accomplished via H4D's precision yaw rate sensors using either the factory-calibrated mode or a user-calibrated setting. HTS 1.5 tilt-and-shift converter users will get a straightforward and accurate starting point for composing for tilt photography.

Preview in tethered mode:
When shooting in tethered mode, users can select to have the preview displayed on the camera's rear panel LCD for remote viewing directly on the camera.

Information display:
With a simple press of a button, relevant camera information will be displayed on the rear LCD. A new graphical interface gives priority to settings such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and the number of remaining frames with other data available as well.

GIL support for H4D-60:
The firmware update adds full support for the Hasselblad Global Image Positioning GPS device to the H4D-60. With this new functionality, the GIL is now supported on all H2D/H3D/H4D cameras.

The firmware update, to be released by the end of this year, can be downloaded free of charge from hasselblad.com

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photokinaTV - The Impossible Project

YouTube Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7GMKq1SvQU



FotoTVcom - When Polaroid stopped production of their instant picture film, some folks came up with an impossible idea. Why not produce the instant fim ourselves. So they purchased the the complete
production equipment and got started. (full speed ahead) .

This spring they did „the impossible" For some Polaroid cameras you can once again get instant B&W and color film.

Andreas Hentschel and Marlene Kelnreiter are with us in the studio demonstrating exactly that this can be done. Next up on the agenda for the „Impossible Project" is a solution to seperate the battery from the film pack, charge it back up and save the environment at the same time. Seems like the
sky the limit when were talking Impossible projects.

Category: Science & Technology
Tags: photokinaTV, photokina, Polaroid, analogue photography

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photokinaTV - Beyond Photography

YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzNuKpJvQhs



FotoTVcom - Two years ago when FototTV spoke with David Mecy, he presented himself as a Playboy photographer. Meanwhile David Mecy decided he wanted to
develop more personally. Now he's branched out using his experience from his time at Playboy to influence and bring new dimensions to his photos.

For an american photographer he's really made a name for himself in Europe. For his part, he finds Europe refreshing with fewer problems regarding the
shapely female forms he photographs so well.

You can download a podcast of this photokinaTV show at:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZ...

Category: People & Blogs
Tags: photokinaTV, photokina, Playboy

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photokinaTV - Treasures in Archives

YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-N_PSwyp9c



FotoTVcom - Thomas Hoepker, looking back on his long career as a photojournalist is now preparing an archive of his past work. All of his previous conventional photo negatives are being analysed, printed and judged for their potential use in the archive. Currently he's working on a project devoted to his photographs from the GDR. These will appear soon in book form and will also be exhibited!

Category: People & Blogs
Tags: photokinaTV, photokina, Photo journalism

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Nikon Macro Gear: Product Reviews: Adorama Photography TV

YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nz2Cv5xYR0



adoramaTV - AdoramaTV presents Nikon Macro Gear. This week Mark will show us some great Nikon macro products. From macro lens to on camera flashes.

For more information about the Nikon 105mm f/2.5 Micro lens or the R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlite System, and to learn more about macro photography, go here: http://www.adorama.com/alc/article/Nikon-Macro-Gear-AdoramaTV

Related Products

• Nikkor 105mm f/2.5G
• Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-up Speedlite System

Category: Howto & Style
Tags: mark wallace, photography, digital, camera, macro, lens, flash, nikon, snapfactory, adorama

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Panasonic 3D lens for Lumix G2 and GH2: hands on preview

YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cNX8Kz8cyk



WhatDigitalCamera - What Digital Camera takes a first look at the Panasonic 3D lens for its micro four thirds Lumix cameras. The 12mm (65mm equivalent) is the world's first interchangeable 3D lens for a stills camera.

Category: Science & Technology
Tags: PANASONIC, stereo, lens

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Evolution Of The Revolutionary: The Nikon D7000 D-SLR Is The Preeminent Digital Camera For Demanding Photo Enthusiasts

The D7000 Offers Creative Freedom with Advanced Features Such as a New 16.2-Megapixel DX-Format CMOS Sensor, Six FPS Shooting, 39-Point AF System and 1080p HD Movie with Full Time Autofocus

MELVILLE, NY (September 15, 2010) – Nikon Inc. today introduced the new D7000 digital SLR camera designed to fulfill the needs of passionate photographers who demand exceptional performance, reliability, and unprecedented levels of control and versatility in a compact form factor. Engineered as an ideal balance of durability and functionality, the D7000 D-SLR features a multitude of new enhancements and updated Nikon technologies, which results in stunning photos and amazing full HD (High Definition) movies.

Continuing the tradition of innovative technology that began with the revolutionary D90, the first D-SLR to capture HD movie, the D7000 features a new 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor with low-light ability never before seen in a DX-format (APS-C) camera. The new EXPEED 2 TM image-processing engine fuels the enhanced performance of the D7000 along with a new 39-point AF system and groundbreaking new 2,016 pixel RGB 3D Matrix Metering System to deliver amazing image quality in a variety of shooting conditions. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR provides full 1080p HD movie capability with full-time auto focus (AF), enabling users to capture their world with both striking still and moving images.

“The D7000 D-SLR creates a new class of Nikon camera by delivering exceptional quality, control and an innovative feature set; this is a camera that enables D-SLR users to achieve a true expression of their creative vision, while concentrating primarily on image quality above all else,” said Lisa Osorio, general manager of marketing at Nikon Inc. “When you combine the innovation of the agile D7000 with the exceptional and robust line of NIKKOR lenses and accessories, the potential for D-SLR photographers and filmmakers is limitless.”

Unparalleled Performance From Unrivaled Technologies
With its new 16.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor and Nikon’s new EXPEED 2 image processing system, the D7000 D-SLR delivers superior image quality with low noise. The EXPEED 2 image-processing engine combined with a 14-bit Analog / Digital conversion brings a new level of even tonal gradations while managing color, contrast, exposure, and noise resulting in brilliant image quality. EXPEED 2 also manages the D7000’s speedy 50-millisecond shutter response, blazing AF speed and rapid six frame-per-second (fps) burst speed for up to 100 images.

The D7000 D-SLR features an all-new 39-point AF System, which includes nine center cross-type sensors that operate with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses. The 39 points in the new Multi-CAM 4800DX AF module work together to provide superior subject acquisition and fast tracking capabilities, allowing photographers to confidently capture a player stealing third from the sideline to fast-moving wildlife. Additionally, photographers can activate dynamic or single point AF, configurable in combinations of 9, 21 or 39 or a 21-point ring to match a variety of shooting styles and situations. Photographers can activate 3D tracking, which continuously follows moving subjects within the 39 AF points, highlighting the activated AF point in the viewfinder.

Utilizing Nikon’s exclusive Scene Recognition System, the camera analyzes subject information from a database containing more than 30,000 images to optimize focus, exposure and white balance. To assist in creating amazing imagery, the Scene Recognition System reads data from a groundbreaking 2,016-pixel 3D Color Matrix Meter RGB sensor that examines the scene’s brightness and color data then optimizes the camera’s performance prior to the actual exposure. Another revolutionary Nikon first, this system interprets scene data for improved control of light metering and i-TTL flash output. Additionally this new sensor allows for a new “Ambient” white balance setting which can be activated to allow warm rendering in Automatic White Balance.

Nikon Continues the Low-Light Fight
The D7000 D-SLR continues Nikon’s tradition of providing photographers the confidence to shoot in low-light, knowing they will capture high quality low-noise images. The camera’s native ISO range of 100-6400 affords the versatility to photograph in challenging lighting conditions, such as when indoors or in the evening. The ISO range can be expanded to a Hi-2 setting of 25,600, which was previously found only in Nikon FX-format territory. The resolution of the camera renders a pixel size of 4.78 µm, which allows more light to be gathered, resulting in a correctly exposed image that has less noise and finer grain.

Full 1080p HD Movies with Advanced Video Features
Building upon the popular D90 D-SLR, the Nikon D7000 captures breathtaking full 1080p HD movies with full-time autofocus and manual exposure control. To keep critical HD focus, users can choose to engage a variety of AF functions, including face priority to track up to 35 human faces, subject-tracking and normal or wide-area autofocus.

Advanced movie features also allow exposure adjustment on the fly while recording. The D7000 D-SLR offers variable frame rates and resolutions, and can record 1080p at a cinema-like 24 fps, or a web-friendly 720p at either 24 or 30 fps for up to 20 minutes per clip. Once recorded, users are able to edit and trim video clips in the camera to save time in post production. Whether utilizing a wireless or hot shoe mounted microphone, sound can be recorded via the stereo microphone input for professional audio results.

To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated by a single dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by pressing a single button. The D7000 D-SLR also incorporates a built-in HDMI output CEC compliant (Consumer Electronic Control) that allows users to connect it to a HDTV and playback with most HDTV remote controls.

By adding versatile NIKKOR lenses to the equation, photographers can create a variety of photo perspectives to video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low-light conditions. Combining the D7000 D-SLR with NIKKOR lenses also delivers the sharpness essential for HD video, and Nikon’s innovative Vibration Reduction (VR) II technology helps to eliminate the effects of camera shake.

No Compromise: Enhanced Build Quality, Durability and Usability
The compact design is lightweight enough for a full days use, but has a reassuring heft that hints at Nikon’s reputation for reliability. The durable camera body consists of a magnesium-alloy top and rear covers and a 150,000 cycle-rated shutter system. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR is dust and moisture sealed and features Nikon’s dust reduction system to remove image-degrading particles from the image sensor. Among the well laid out ergonomics, users will immediately notice a new Mode Dial that eschews traditional Scene Mode icons for more advanced manual functions and two user-defined settings (U1, U2) to adapt to a users shooting style on the fly. Placed under the control wheel is a Release Mode dial, which allows access the burst modes, timer, or the Quiet Shutter, to soften the cameras operation when shooting in sensitive environments such as a ceremonies or nature.

When framing lush landscapes or tight telephoto shots from afar, users will appreciate the large, bright glass pentaprism optical viewfinder has approximately 100% frame coverage and approximately 0.94x magnification. The three-inch, 921,000-dot super-density LCD monitor with 170-degree viewing delivers bright, crisp image playback and precise Live View and movie shooting.

The D7000 D-SLR features twin SD card slots with SD, SDHC, SDXC memory card compatibility that offers several recording options including designating separate NEF (RAW) JPEG and movie files. The built-in i-TTL Speedlight flash offers coverage for lenses as wide as 16mm and has Wireless Commander support so users can choose how to light their subjects. The D7000 was designed to provide maximum performance with minimized power usage and also employs a new EN-EL15 battery which enables up to 1050 shots when fully charged.

Nikon Technologies That Empower and Inspire
The D7000 D-SLR contains many features aimed at empowering the user with creative freedom including the ability to process RAW images directly in the camera, and add in special effects using the retouch menu. Among the many editing options are color filters, distortion control for a fisheye effect, perspective control for a miniature effect, or a new color sketch filter that creates a sketch-styled image. As always, manipulated images are saved as copies while the original is retained.

The Picture Control system also allows the choice for Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, or Landscape settings to apply a personal look and feel to their pictures, and it’s versatile Scene Modes let them choose from Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up or Night Portrait for stunning results even in challenging conditions.

Price and Availability
The D7000 D-SLR camera will be available throughout the United States beginning mid-October 2010 at an MSRP* of $1199.95 for body only and $1499.95 for body and lens outfit that includes the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

*MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

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

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Pentax Announces K-5 Digital SLR For Advanced Amateur Photographers

GOLDEN, CO (September 20, 2010)…PENTAX Imaging Systems has announced the PENTAX K-5 digital SLR camera. The K-5 DSLR offers a true high-end prosumer design and features normally found only on the most costly of professional cameras. With exceptional reliability, user-friendly operation, and the compact, lightweight body of its predecessor, the PENTAX K-7, the new K-5 offers several important and improved features.

The pro-oriented “prosumer” features that take this latest PENTAX DSLR to the next level include:
• High resolution 16.3 megapixel CMOS sensor.
• Fast up to 7 FPS to capture fast action shots.
• High sensitivity 80-12800 ISO range, expandable to 51200, with improved noise performance overall.
• Widescreen 1080p HD video at 25 FPS with sound via built-in microphone or external 3.5mm stereo microphone jack.
• Newly improved, highly responsive and accurate 11 point SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with dedicated AF assist lamp and light wavelength sensor.
• Focus and shutter speed priority during AF-C.
• Native support for both PENTAX PEF and Adobe DNG 14 bit RAW files.
• Improved in-camera HDR image capture with more blending modes and better image alignment for handheld HDR shots.
• SDXC memory card compatibility (via firmware update).

Additional important features on the new PENTAX K-5 digital SLR include:
• A fully weather sealed and coldproof design.
• A large 3 inch LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution.
• Durable magnesium alloy that surrounds a rugged stainless steel chassis.
• Highly accurate 77 segment metering system.
• Pentaprism viewfinder with 100% field of view and 0.92X magnification.
• PENTAX body-based Shake Reduction (SR) stabilization system that works with every PENTAX lens ever made.
• A maximum 1/8000 second shutter speed.
• HDMI port outputs high definition images and video (and sound).
• A wide range of in-camera image processing and special effects filters.
• Customizable RAW/Fx button.
• Built-in electronic level with tilt scale display in LCD panel.

These improvements and features are a direct result of customer feedback provided to PENTAX by dedicated “prosumer” Pentaxian shooters who have helped refine the K-5 to deliver a wide feature set and make it a perfect all-purpose camera for field or studio use. The K-5 is an excellent choice for advanced enthusiasts looking for a compact, yet highly advanced camera without spending thousands of dollars more. The PENTAX K-5 digital SLR will ship in October 2010 as a body kit only for $1,599.95 USD or as a lens kit with the 18-55mm WR for $1,749.95 USD.


PENTAX Imaging also announced the smc PENTAX-DA18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR lens designed exclusively for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. This interchangeable zoom lens features a simplified weather-resistant construction and extra-smooth autofocus operation using a built-in motor, in addition to its high 7.5X zoom ratio. This new lens will ship in October for $529.95 USD. More information is available here: www.pentaximaging.com and product images are available here: www.pentaximaging.com/press/pressfiles.html An informational video is available here: www.youtube.com/pentaxian1

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of a variety of digital cameras including weather resistant digital SLRs and stylish, compact, waterproof cameras, as well as lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. For over 90 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.

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Phase One Releases Capture One 5.2 Expands Support for Leaf Digital Backs and Mamiya DM Systems; Boosts Nikon Image File Quality

COPENHAGEN, September 14, 2010— Phase One today updated Capture One -- its powerful raw conversion and image editing workflow software -- with enhanced support for Leaf, Mamiya and Nikon digital camera systems.

Capture One 5.2 PRO/DB improves tethered performance and offers Live View support for Leaf digital backs and Mamiya DM systems. Tethered performance for Leaf Aptus II series backs has been significantly improved, and the release also offers easy color-cast correction on Leaf files as well as optimized firmware management for selected Leaf digital backs.

Capture One’s tailor-made Nikon camera profiles are renowned for providing ultimate image quality for Nikon’s top DSLR cameras. The new release improves colors and tone response as well as consistency for the following Nikon camera models: D3s, D3x, D3, D2x, D700, D300, D300s, and D90.

Enhanced Leaf and Mamiya support:
-- Capture One 5.2 PRO/DB improves support for: 
- Leaf: Aptus-II 10R, Aptus-II 10, Aptus-II 8, Aptus-II 7, Aptus-II 6, Aptus-II 5, AFi-II 10, AFi-II 7, AFi-II 6 
-- Mamiya: DM56, DM40, DM33, DM28, DM22, M31, M22, M18

-- Capture One 5.2 PRO improves support for: Aptus 75S, Aptus 65S, Aptus 54S, AFi 7, AFi 6, AFi 5, Aptus 75, Aptus 65, Aptus 22, Aptus 17

For a complete list of supported camera files, please see:  
http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5-Pro/FAQ.aspx

For a complete list of tethered camera support, please see: 
http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5-Pro/FAQ.aspx

For complete Capture One 5.2 product details, please see: 
http://www.phaseone.com/5

Pricing and availability
Capture One 5.2 is available in three versions: Capture One 5.2, Capture One 5.2 DB and Capture One 5.2 PRO; each version is localized for Chinese (simplified), Czech, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish and Swedish.

Capture One 5 PRO is available via download for 399 USD and 299 EUR through Phase One’s Online Store www.phaseone.com/store and through leading professional photography dealers worldwide. Capture One 5 is available for 129 USD and 99 EUR.

Capture One 5.2/5.2 PRO is a free service release to existing Capture One 5.x/5.x PRO owners. Current Capture One 4 PRO customers can upgrade to Capture One 5.2 PRO for 99 USD and 69 EUR. Existing Capture One 4 customers can upgrade to Capture One 5.2 PRO for 299 USD and 229 EUR. Please visit Phase One’s Online Store for other upgrade options and free trials.

In addition, Leaf digital back customers will receive a special offer until September 30, 2010: 40% off on all Capture One 5 PRO products. For more information, please visit http://www.leaf-photography.com/.

System Requirements
Capture One 5.1 for Microsoft® Windows® requires at least an Intel® Pentium® 4 processor, 2 GB of RAM and 10 GB of free hard disk space as well as Windows XP® SP3, Windows Vista® SP2 or Windows 7®.

Capture One 5.1 for Apple® Macintosh® requires at least an Intel-based Mac, 2 GB of RAM and 10 GB of free hard disk space as well as Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard or Mac OS X 10.5.8.

About Phase One
Phase One is the world’s leader in open-platform based medium format camera systems and solutions. Phase One medium format cameras, digital backs and lenses are designed to deliver superior quality image capture and investment value. Phase One’s Capture One software helps streamline capture and post-production processes for both medium format and DSLR cameras. Phase One products are known for their quality, flexibility and speed enabling pro photographers shooting in a wide range of formats to achieve their creative visions without compromise. For more information about the products, visit the Phase One web site on www.phaseone.com.

Phase One is an employee-owned company based in Copenhagen with offices in New York, London, Tokyo, Cologne and Shanghai.

Phase One and Capture One are registered trademarks of Phase One A/S. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

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Pentax Announced K-r Digital SLR And New 35mm Lens

GOLDEN, CO. September 8, 2010…PENTAX Imaging Systems Division has announced a new digital SLR line with color accents that allow owners to choose one that matches their personal style. The colorful PENTAX K-r DSLR camera offers advanced yet simple to use features at an attractive price.

The compact, lightweight PENTAX K-r is easy to use with Auto Picture, Scene, and Custom Image Processing modes that take the guesswork out of shooting stunning images while still offering a high degree of manual and priority control. The K-r offers a variety of new and improved features including a fast framerate, high ISO sensitivity, responsive autofocus, an improved 12.4 megapixel low-noise sensor and widescreen HD video capture that take it a step above an entry-level DSLR camera.

Key features of the PENTAX K-r that are new or have been improved upon from the most recent entry to mid-level PENTAX DSLR models include:
• Three stylish color choices include traditional black, the new classic white, and PENTAX red reflect any owner’s personal style.
• Large 3 inch LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution.
• Faster high speed 6 FPS framerate that captures 25 images in a single sequence.
• A maximum 1/6000 second shutter speed.
• Viewfinder focus point indicator.
• Improved in-camera HDR image capture including a Night Scene HDR mode.
• High sensitivity 100-25600 ISO range with improved noise performance from the new 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor.
• Versatile dual-power-source design, which offers the choice of either a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or four AA-size battery power (using optional AA Battery Holder D-BH109).
• Infrared data transfer compatible with the IrSimple™ high-speed infrared data transmission system for wireless data transfer to the web or other IrSimple-compatible devices (includes a match-game between two PENTAX K-r’s).

Other important features of the new K-r models include:
• Widescreen 720p HD video at 25 FPS.
• PENTAX-original Shake Reduction mechanism for sharp, blur-free images that works with every PENTAX lens ever made
• Dust Removal mechanism, to shake dust off the CMOS image sensor.
• Highly responsive and accurate 11 point SAFOX IX autofocus system with dedicated AF assist lamp.
• Wide range of in-camera image processing and special effects filters.

With a highly portable, compact and lightweight body in a choice of colors, the K-r holds appeal for busy parents, family memory-keepers, travelers and anyone who reflects personal style in all their pursuits including their journey into photography or videography as a skill or hobby. The PENTAX K-r digital SLR will ship in October 2010 for as follows:
K-r Body Kit $799.95 USD
K-r Lens Kit w 18-55 $849.95 USD
K-r Double Lens Kit w 18-55, 50-200 $899.95 USD
K-r Double Lens Kit w 18-55, 55-300 $999.95 USD

PENTAX also announced the smc PENTAX DA 35mm F2.4 AL, standard lens designed exclusively for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. This new lens is versatile enough to be used with a wide range of subjects and applications for high-resolution images with edge-to-edge sharpness.
It is a perfect choice for digital SLR beginners to familiarize themselves with the basics of using interchangeable lenses.

The PENTAX DA 35mm F2.4 AL lens also will ship in October for $219.95 USD.
More information is available here: www.pentaximaging.com and product images are available
here: www.pentaximaging.com/press/pressfiles.html An information video is available here: www.pentaximaging.com/pentaxian1

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of a variety of digital cameras including weather resistant digital SLRs and stylish, compact, waterproof cameras, as well as lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. For over 90 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.

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Tamron 60th Anniversary Model

Announcing the release of a full size premium telephoto zoom - the Tamron Superior Performance SP 70-300mm F4-5.6 Di VC USD (Model A005) for Canon mount.

September 9, 2010, Saitama, Japan - President and CEO Morio Ono of optical equipment manufacturer Tamron Co., Ltd. announced on September 25, 2010 in Japan another advance in the company's pursuit of high resolution images in the telephoto lens category with the release of a 70-300mm F/4-5.6 telephoto zoom lens featuring image stabilization-VC (Vibration Compensation) and an ultrasonic auto-focus drive - USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive). The SP 70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di VC USD (Model A005) high-resolution DSLR telephoto zoom lens has been produced for the Canon mount.

Product Name: SP 70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di VC USD (Model A005) for Canon
Date of Launch (in Japan): September 25, 2010

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Carl Zeiss presents a new moderate wide-angle lens

The fast all-around talent

OBERKOCHEN/Germany, 01.09.2010.
A woman is sitting at the bar of a dimly-lit cafe. Lost in thoughts, she doesn’t notice the glass of wine the bartender places before her. From a distance, a photographer tries to capture her mood. He brings her face, which is leaning toward her phone, into focus. Everything around her becomes a blur, and the lights in the background coalesce into a wild “dance” of diffuse shapes.

This shot will only work with a fast lens with short focal length and harmonious bokeh. Carl Zeiss introduces a new lens for just such images: the Distagon T* 1,4/35.

By introducing the Distagon T* 1,4/35, Carl Zeiss is complementing the Planar T*1,4/50 and T*1,4/85 lenses with a wide-angle lens that shares the same high speed. Crisp, sharp images work every time, whether at dusk or in the weak lighting conditions of a café, and without the need for a tripod. With its 35-mm, the Distagon T* 1,4/35 matches the classic and versatile standard focal lengths when used on cameras with APS-C sensor formats.

Due to the special bokeh effects in both the foreground and background areas, the Distagon T*1,4/35 opens up new creative possibilities, giving photographers more options to ‘play’ with focus. Thanks to its large focus ring, photographers can also create highly accurate, sharp pictures, even at maximum aperture opening. In addition, the optical construction of the lens guarantees high image quality across the entire image range. Furthermore, with one step less than the full aperture opening, the light fall-off toward the edges is just one f-stop.

With the ZEISS T*‘s anti-reflective coating, its sophisticated stray light reduction and the excellent flare control the new Distagon also takes pictures of bright light sources without artifacts. The Distagon T*1,4/35’s extremely long-lasting and robust all-metal precision mechanics, for which Carl Zeiss is known, make this lens perfect for use on-the-go and for photo reports.

The Distagon T* 1,4/35 will be available in first quarter of 2011 at a recommended retail price of €1385.71 (excluding VAT)*.

Technical specifications

Focal length:	35 mm
Aperture range:	f/1.4 - f/16
Number of elements/groups:	11/9
Focusing range:	0.3 m - infinity
Angular field** (diag./horiz./vert.):	63/54/37 °
Coverage at close range:	18 x 12 cm (close-up)
Image ratio at close range:	1:5 (close-up)
Filter thread:	M 72 x 0.75
Weight:	830-850g
Length with caps:	120-122mm
Mounts:	ZF.2 (F bayonet) ZE (EF bayonet)

* As of September 01, 2010
** relates to small camera format

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A 'Touch' Is All It Takes: Sony Unveils New Bloggie Camera

Device Allows Easy Sharing of HD Video and Photos via Social Networks

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 1, 2010 – Making its worldwide debut today, Sony’s new Bloggie™ Touch enhances the pocket video camera category by making it even easier to preserve and upload life’s spontaneous moments.

The Bloggie Touch (MHS-TS20 and MHS-TS10) captures full 1920x1080p high definition MP4 video and 12.8-megapixel photos on 8GB or 4GB of embedded memory, respectively, offering approximately four hours of HD movie recording. Its sleek, stylish body sports a three-inch diagonal capacitive touch screen enabling intuitive operation as well as attractive shooting and playback options.

“The new Bloggie Touch addresses the growing need for premium video products with advanced technology in a desirable package at a competitive price point,” said Andy Bubala, director of Sony’s camcorder business. “We started from the ground up to develop a new system of hardware, software and seamless integration with social network services for an easy, intuitive shooting and sharing experience that anyone can enjoy.”

Boasting a clean, innovative design, new Bloggie Touch cameras feature minimal hard keys and a large, vibrant touch screen that automatically adjusts for vertical or horizontal shooting and viewing, enabling customers to shoot video right-handed, left-handed, right-side-up or even upside-down. You can record video, snap photos, or both at the same time, just by pressing two of three simplified buttons on the device. An advanced user interface features intuitive “touch and flick” recording control, search and playback operation, as well as a simple Share-it-Later function to tag the clips and pictures you want to post for easy upload when you are online.

Sony’s Bloggie Touch cameras now deliver amazingly high quality video and photos. Equipped with a F2.8 wide angle lens and a sensitive Exmor™ CMOS sensor, the new cameras achieve high resolution video and crisply-detailed still photos with less noise, even in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, its processor allows videographers to attain 4x digital zoom and auto focus capabilities, including Auto Macro to focus sharply on objects as close as four inches away.

The ultra-compact, lightweight cameras slip easily into a pocket or purse so they can record your favorite moments anytime, anywhere. The Bloggie Touch has SteadyShot® image stabilization for smoother footage, Face Detection technology to enhance faces by automatically correcting exposure and a built-in USB arm for easy charging and uploading to a computer. It even features an HDMI™ output to enjoy content on your HDTV.

Simple, Secure Way to Share Photos and Videos
After shooting, it’s never been easier to share your favorite videos and photos on the web. By connecting the camera to an internet-connected compatible computer via the built-in USB, pre-installed Bloggie software quickly imports your content and makes it a breeze to edit, organize, and even transfer your videos and photos to popular sharing websites with simple drag and drop motions. It includes direct upload to Facebook®, Flickr®, Picasa Web Albums™ and YouTube™ photo and video sharing sites.

The built-in Bloggie software also connects to Sony’s Personal Space™ online service that effortlessly shares your photos and videos privately with individuals you select. Personal Space service offers registered users the ability to create Sharing Groups by entering email addresses of friends and family. Once footage and images have been uploaded, the service sends an email invitation to those groups with a link to view content on your Personal Space service. It’s easier, quicker and safer than sending big file attachments via email, and no registration is required by email recipients.

Available in silver or black, the MHS-TS20 and MHS-TS10 will be available in October for about $200 and $180 respectively. The Bloggie Touch cameras, and a specially designed protective skin jacket, will be sold at Sony Style® retail stores, www.sonystyle.com/bloggie and through the Sony Retailer Network nationwide.

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