Sunday, October 14, 2012

Pixoto To Add Stock Photo Sales

After experiencing dramatic growth through their increasingly popular photography contest platform, Pixoto.com announces plans to add stock photo sales to their website.
Boulder, CO (PRWEB) September 24, 2012 - Pixoto, the innovative online photography community, recently added the ability for its photographer members to add their photos to the upcoming Pixoto Stock Photo Service. The company has experienced explosive growth since its inception in 2011 and has attracted over 100,000 members due to its proprietary image ranking and voting system called ImageDuel. Pixoto is the first photo contest site that ranks every image submitted by an unbiased quality score.
Pixoto members now have the potential of earning money from their photos by simply checking a “License for Stock” box when uploading them to Pixoto. Pixoto members will earn a fee when designers, editors and marketers purchase and download their photos for use in their editorial and commercial works.

Pixoto Stock, through the use of its ImageDuel voting system, hopes to revolutionize micro-stock licensing for images. Pixoto believes that its ability to rank every image submitted gives them, and their members, several key advantages over traditional stock photo sites:

  1. Crowd Validated: With the average top ranked image on Pixoto being voted on by over 100 unique people, buyers can be 100% confident that people love the photo
  2. Faster Search: With Pixoto the best images show up first in every search result eliminating hours of paging through mediocre images
  3. Fresher Images: An amazing stock photo submitted today will be on the top of the search results tomorrow
  4. More variety: Anybody can be a stock photographer with Pixoto because the best images will always rise to the top so they will be able to source stock photos from a much broader audience
Pixoto’s photography contest system is completely innovative, leveling the playing field between participants, who can sign-up for free. Photographers submit images in preset categories such as wildlife, travel, architecture, and specific themes, etc., which are then matched against one another in side by side votes called ImageDuels. The results of the ImageDuels, which are completed by Pixoto members, are used to generate a proprietary ImageScore. The average image on Pixoto collects votes from 100 unique people.
Pixoto gives awards for the best photos in each category every day and its weekly contests have cash prizes. So far, the company has realized astonishing participation from players with over 1 million images already submitted and over 56 million votes cast to date. Pixoto’s ImageDuel system is particularly advantageous for photographers looking for artistic feedback from their peers, as well as the capacity to earn awards, enhancing their own business’s marketing potential.

With the addition of their upcoming stock photo sales to their photography contest arm, Pixoto will add yet another dimension to their increasingly robust presence as an online photography community. Serving artists and photographers alike, the expanded sales presence will reach the public at large, allowing for cross-fertilization of the company’s entire enterprise.

About Pixoto:
Founded in 2011 in Boulder, CO, Pixoto has quickly become the web’s leading photo contest site with more than 100,000 members in more than 150 counties and over 1 million images submitted. Pixoto’s revolutionary ImageDuel voting system aggregates millions of individual voter preferences to create “leaderboards” of the best images in the world. For additional information, please visit http://www.pixoto.com.






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Performance that Fuels the Passion: The New Nikon D600 Puts FX-Format in Focus for Photo Enthusiasts

As Nikon's Smallest, Lightest and Most Affordable Full-Frame HD-SLR, the D600 Packs in Powerful, Pro-Grade Photo and Video Features with Wireless Sharing and Capture Capabilities

MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the 24.3-megapixel (MP) D600, a camera that is designed to deliver the image quality and performance benefits of a full frame FX-format sensor to the enthusiast looking to take their dedication to the next level. The Nikon D600 offers a remarkable value, merging the perfect combination of a lightweight, compact form factor and superior image quality, making the leap into FX-format photography more attractive than ever. 
Whether shooting stills or Full HD video, advanced features and Nikon technologies like the newly developed high resolution CMOS sensor and EXPEED 3 image processing engine are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding creative vision. Additionally, Nikon’s new optional WU-1b wireless adapter allows users to shoot high quality HD-SLR images and transfer them to their mobile device, making it easier to stay connected, without the need for wires.

“For many, image making is so much more than a hobby; it is a way of life that changes the way the world is perceived. The Nikon D600 represents a new category of camera for this user and demonstrates Nikon’s devotion to the passionate photographer who is always looking for new ways to express their creativity through their photos and HD videos,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “By offering users the advanced FX-format and key features inherited from our professional cameras, along with new functions like optional wireless capabilities, Nikon is inspiring photographers by providing an imaging experience that satisfies like never before.“

Superior Image Quality
Nikon’s FX-format offers photographers exciting image quality possibilities, from dazzling dynamic range and exacting detail to stellar low-light ability. The D600 employs Nikon’s newly developed, large 24.3 MP FX-format CMOS Sensor (35.9 x 24mm) to offer photographers a versatile camera that provides amazing image quality and sharpness, with ample resolution to tackle almost any project. Because the needs of the advanced amateur varies widely, the new CMOS sensor provides a wide ISO range from 100-6400 (expandable from 50-25,600) to give photographers maximum low-light flexibility yielding clean images with minimal noise and accurate color. The full ISO range can also be used while capturing HD video in challenging light. Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED 3 image processing engine interprets the massive amount of image data flowing from the sensor to quickly process images and HD video. The result is striking images and impressive HD video that exhibits faithful color reproduction and tonal range throughout the frame.

Precision Technology Engineered for the Enthusiast
Enthusiasts of all types demand the best from their gear, and the Nikon D600 is a camera engineered with intuitive features that give photographers an edge in the field. Whether shooting lush landscapes, action sports or the elusive animals of the Serengeti, Nikon’s Scene Recognition System and 2,016 pixel RGB sensor excels in any situation. By recognizing the scene prior to capture, the system meticulously analyzes factors such as color and brightness with extraordinary precision and compares all the data using Nikon’s exclusive 30,000 image database. The result is enhanced AF performance and flattering exposures.

For precise AF performance in a wide variety of shooting conditions, the D600 features a 39 point AF system with the new MultiCAM 4800FX AF module. This AF array is well suited to a wide variety of shooting styles and disciplines, offering AF modes to let users select a single point, continuous AF, Dynamic AF or use 3D tracking to keep pace with a moving subject throughout the frame. Additionally, the system features nine cross type sensors for maximum accuracy, while seven AF points are fully functional when using compatible NIKKOR lenses and teleconverters with an aperture value up to f/8 for extreme telephoto applications.

To keep up with action sports, active wildlife or the photo opportunity that unexpectedly arises, the D600 is ready to shoot in 0.13 seconds, with a 0.052 second shutter release.  The camera emphasizes speed and performance, from overall operation and image processing, helped in part by the exceptional EXPEED 3 processing engine. The camera is also capable of bursts of images at 5.5 frames per second (fps) at full resolution with full AF, to capture decisive moments. To further enhance speed and workflow, images and video can also be rapidly transferred to dual SD card slots that are compatible with the latest SDXC and UHS-1 high speed standards.

Enthusiasts will also appreciate other thoughtful features made to appeal to more advanced photographers, such as the 100% frame coverage seen through optical viewfinder. The wide and bright view makes it easy to compose in a variety of conditions, and affords the ability to enjoy shooting for hours on end with minimal eye fatigue. Additionally, the D600 features several scene modes and features to enhance creativity, including one-touch access to Picture Control functions through a new dedicated button. Photographers can also shoot images in High Dynamic (HDR) mode for amazing highlights, and create awe-inspiring time lapses with ease.

Experience Full HD
The Nikon D600 has advanced video features that are ideal for those ready to embrace the world of HD-SLR video, as well as those already enjoying its benefits such as manual control, depth of field, low-light ability and lensing options. This camera gives users the ability to record Full HD at varying frame rates and resolutions including 1080p video at 30, 25 or 24p, and 720p video at 60, 50 and 30p. When shooting HD video at the highest quality setting, up to 20 minutes can be recorded, or up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds in normal quality for added convenience when shooting static shots such as interviews and events. The large 3.2-inch 921K dot LCD screen makes it easy to preview images or video captured, navigate the menu system or confirm critical HD focus, while automatic brightness control adapts seamlessly to changing lighting conditions.

Sophisticated video features help to increase the production value on any project, including full manual control of exposure, and the ability to switch between FX and DX-format (1.5X) at Full HD for a telephoto boost and alter depth of field. Users can opt to focus manually or can take advantage of the full-time AF while recording to help ensure faces are in focus or track a moving subject. Additionally, videographers have the ability to capture audio with the onboard microphone or record stereo audio externally using the mic input. Audio can be monitored through the headphone jack and levels can be displayed on the LCD with peaking.

In addition to the ability to play back HD video and images through the HDMI terminal, users are also able to experience pro-grade video features in the Nikon D600. For monitoring and streaming applications, the image can be displayed on the LCD screen while simultaneously shown on another monitor through the HDMI, with or without shooting data. What’s more, the D600 adds the ability to transfer uncompressed video via the HDMI connection, which can then be routed to a digital recorder or similar device.

Remote Sharing and Capture
Photography is a form of expression, which can now be shared more ways than ever before through social networks and online communities. To accompany the D600, Nikon has also announced the optional WU-1b Wireless Adapter that allows users to connect wirelessly to the camera. A companion Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application for Android™ based mobile devices is also available at no additional cost. 1 Furthermore, an application for the iPhone® and iPad® mobile digital devices will be available on September 15, 2012.2

When connected, users are able to share their images taken with the D600 through their mobile device to their social circles, as well as send and download images from their camera to a compatible device.3 The adapter also allows users to remotely fire the D600’s shutter from up to 50 feet from the camera, which is ideal for capturing photos from unique vantage points.

NIKKOR, Speedlight and System Compatibility
Supporting the D600 is Nikon’s heritage in optical excellence, more than 70 NIKKOR AF and AF-S compatible lenses for maximum versatility. Those with DX-format lenses will also be happy to know that these lenses can also be used on the camera as well as the ability to set DX crop for stills or video to extend the reach of telephoto or telephoto zoom lenses.

The new Nikon HD-SLR is also a gateway to Nikon’s renowned Creative Lighting System (CLS) which illuminates a whole new world of creative image making using multiple Speedlights. A built-in Speedlight commander can control multiple Speedlights such as Nikon’s SB-700, SB-910 or Wireless Close Up Speedlight System, and the camera can also control up to two individual speedlight groups for further creative control.

Constructed to Inspire
Built to withstand the wide variety of shooting conditions enthusiasts face, the body of the D600 is sealed and gasketed against dirt and moisture. The camera uses magnesium alloy top and rear construction to provide a lightweight camera with maximum durability. The shutter has been tested for 150,000 cycles, and sensor cleaning is also employed. The battery is rated for approximately 900 shots, affording photographers the ability to shoot all day. Additionally, the optional MB-D14 Multi Power Battery Pack extends the grip for comfort and can effectively double the battery capacity when using two batteries.

The D600 is also built with an emphasis on handling with thoughtful ergonomics and button placement, in a body that is compact enough to carry comfortably on any excursion. The hand grip has been improved for comfort, while the overall impression from using the camera is reassuringly solid. To avoid accidental engagement, the shutter button has been recessed, while the Mode Dial can be locked.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D600 will be available on September 18, 2012 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $2,099.95*, for body only, or with the AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR for the SRP of $2,699.95*. The WU-1b will be also available on September 18, 2012 for an SRP of $59.95*. The MB-D14 Multi Power Battery Pack will be available in late September for an SRP of $322.00*. For more information on the new Nikon D600 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 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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1 Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc.
2 iPad ,iPhone and iTunes are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
3The 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 D600. The application can be downloaded free of charge from Google Play™. for use with an Android platform smartphone (2.3 series or later) and tablet (3.0 series or later). For the iOS mobile platform, the application can be downloaded free of charge from iTunes® online store on September 15, 2012 for use with iOS version 5.1 or 5.1.1.
*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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Manfrotto Introduces Their First Smartphone Accessory!


Acknowledging the market trend towards smartphones as serious image capture devices, and the huge number of videos and stills taken on the iPhone, Manfrotto, the market leader in photo and video accessories, have taken their first step into making products for those that want great images from their iPhone.

KLYP offers a stylish, functional method of attaching supports and additional lights to your phone, allowing you to make images, FaceTime and video capture better and easier.

Five KLYP kits

KLYP comes in five distinctive kits: as a case alone with two adaptor clips to enable use of your own supports and lights, one with the Manfrotto ML240 LED light for videography, Facetime and photography in low light situations and another one with the ML240 and the Manfrotto Pocket tripod for supporting the case when out and about. The more compact ML120 LED light is also available as an option in place of the ML240 in both options.

The KLYP case is made of a rigid polycarbonate with a quality feeling, soft touch coating giving it a silky smooth appearance. The KLYP features a felt inlay to enable smooth fitting of the two parts to the phone without the possibility of damage and it clips together securely.


Stylish looks, with the added design input of people who understand supports and lighting, KLYP is optimized to allow the attachment of a tripod and Manfrotto LED light without detracting from its appearance.


What makes KLYP unique?

By using two cleverly designed removable accessory “clips”, Manfrotto has developed the KLYP case with a patented rail system, which enables the case to remain sleek and have no protrusions to detract from its appearance. The accessory “clips” can be attached to any of four different points around the case to allow landscape and portrait images to be taken with ease, and, in darker conditions, to add a Manfrotto LED light in the optimum position to fill in shadows when shooting stills or video in low light. When using the iPhone’s FaceTime feature, the continuous light can be turned 180 degrees to light the user in a soft pleasing way.
 

KEY FEATURES

• Easy to fit, “always-on” two piece casing offers iPhone protection
• Soft felt insert avoids damage when fitting
• Silky smooth soft touch coating gives the case a high quality appearance
• Designed to have no protruding parts for comfortable carrying
• Four points to attach tripods and additional lighting for flexibility and performance
• Unique clip and rail system for simple secure fixing

KEY BENEFITS

• Designed to allow additional lighting to be fitted for better quality video and stills in low light
• Compact size, even with LED light fitted. Can be taken anywhere you would take your phone. Always with you!
• The ML240 LED light adds soft light, giving natural skin tones to your videos and stills in low light
• The ML120 LED light provides a more portable solution, with lower light output, ideal for FaceTime or Skype conversations

If you need the catalog, please download it
here.






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Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Masters Winners global tour hits the road


The entire imaging community knows that the Hasselblad Masters programme represents photography at its finest; at its most inspired, most communicative, most beautiful. And now the two month-long, three continents-wide Masters Winners Tour 2012 is underway.

The tour comprises six worldwide events; it launched in Tokyo, switches to New York City (October 25/26), to Los Angeles (November 17) then Berlin (November 22) followed by London (November 29) and finishes in Shanghai (December 7).

And photographers and admirers of high quality photography can register online (on a first come, first served basis) to attend these free and exclusive events, which showcase the winners of the Hasselblad Masters 2012 competition. Each event will provide an opportunity to 'get your hands on a Hasselblad' and meet and socialise with the Hasselblad Masters 2012 winners and Masters from previous years.

For more information and to register online for one of the events, please visit: www.hasselbladmasters.com
The winners of the 2012 competition were: Architectural: Frank Meyl, Germany; Editorial: Jon Lowenstein, USA; Fashion/Beauty: Wai Kuen Eric Wong, Hong Kong; Fine Art: Olivier Valsecchi, France; General: Ken Hermann, Denmark; Landscapes/Nature: Tom D. Jones, Belgium; Portrait: Denis Rouvre, France; Products: Joe Felzman, USA; Up & Coming: Vicente Ansola, Spain; Wedding/Social: Milosz Wozaczynski, Poland; Wildlife: Joachim Schmeisser, Germany.

They were selected from 110 finalists across eleven categories and from over 2,500 applications. Each winner received a trophy from Hasselblad Chairman and CEO Dr. Larry Hansen and Paul Waterworth, Hasselblad's Global Photographer Relations Manager at the recent photokina trade fair event in Cologne, Germany.

Earlier in the year the winners were equipped with a Hasselblad H4D Camera, associated lenses and Phocus software to enable them to fulfill a specific shoot theme: EVOKE. The resultant images based on this subject were then galleried at a photokina exhibition and published in the exclusive Hasselblad Masters Book Vol. 3.

Said Paul Waterworth: "Photographers across the planet tell us there is no photographic competition quite like the Hasselblad Masters. It enjoys an exclusive cachet within the imaging industry and in the hearts of photography enthusiasts the world over. Our subject theme this year produced a truly stunning set of images, which are now available in book form and will be part of the worldwide tour this autumn.

Now we look forward to the next Masters Competition in 2014."

About the Hasselblad Masters Awards

The Hasselblad Masters Awards are one of the most prestigious awards in the photographic industry, each time celebrating the best in both established and rising photographic talent. Masters Awards are given in recognition of a photographer's contribution to the art of photography and are judged on overall photographic ability, encompassing creativity, composition, conceptual strength, and technical skill.
www.hasselblad.com/masters







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