Senin, 27 Februari 2006

Software News

Pixmantec RawShooter | essentials 2006 By Mark Goldstein on PMA Show 2006, Software


Pixmantec introduces RawShooter | essentials 2006, RawShooter | premium 2006 V1.02 and RawShooter | Color Engine V1.1.


 


Corel Painter IX.5 By Mark Goldstein on Software


Corel Corporation today unveiled the Corel Painter IX.5 update to give professional photographers and artists new tools that make it easier than ever to transform photographs into paintings.


 


 

Adobe Photoshop Elements 4 for Mac By Mark Goldstein on Software


Adobe today announced Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0 for Macintosh, an all-in-one photo editing and creation solution for Macintosh users.

Minggu, 26 Februari 2006

New Sigma Lenses Announced

Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM lens

Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM lens : Sigma Corporation - developer and manufacturer of world's leading line of lenses and cameras - is pleased to announce the launch of the new Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM lens. This large aperture telephoto zoom lens has a minimum focusing distance of 100cm (39.4”) throughout the entire zoom range. It is very convenient for close-up photography. This lens uses two ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glasses and two SLD(Special Low Dispersion) glasses for utmost correction against chromatic aberrations. This lens’ super multi layer lens coating reduce flare and ghost, which is a common problem with digital cameras.

Sigma DG lenses for Four Thirds mount

Sigma DC lenses for Four Thirds mount : Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of three new lenses for Four Thirds System. The Sigma Macro 105mm F2.8 EX DG lens, a high performance medium telephoto macro lens optimized for Four Third cameras, the Sigma APO Macro 150mm F2.8 EX DG HSM lens; a super compact and lightweight, large aperture telephoto lens with life-size Macro capability for Four Thirds cameras and the Sigma APO 50-500mm F4-6.3 EX DG HSM lens; a telephoto zoom lens capable of covering a wide range of focal lengths for Four Thirds cameras. These Sigma lenses are designed to maximize the potential of the digital imaging, and housed in a compact and lightweight construction.

Sigma DC lenses for Four Thirds mount

Sigma DC lenses for Four Thirds mount : Sigma Corporation - manufacturer of lenses and cameras - is pleased to announce the launch of two new lenses for Four Thirds System. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM lens and the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC lens. These Sigma lenses are designed to maximize the potential of the digital imaging, and housed in a compact and lightweight construction. Our lens line-up for Four-Thirds mount is increased to total eight models with the introduction of these new lenses. The Sigma 30mm EX DC HSM lens is the standard prime lens, designed for digital cameras with large aperture F1.4. The Sigma 18-50mm EX DC lens is a F2.8 large aperture standard zoom lens designed specifically for Four Thirds system.

Sabtu, 25 Februari 2006

Photo Mechanic 4.4.2 released

Camera Bits has posted an upgrade to Photo Mechanic 4.4.2


The latest version of its pro photo browser modifies the crop tool to darken the area outside the crop, adds an option to erase a card after Ingest, improves the Code Replacement function and fixes RAW file captioning problems involving recipes in Canon's Digital Photo Professional as well as the Camera Raw plug-in within Photoshop. Navigator-related crashing in the Windows version has also been addressed.


The new version also adds support for Lexar's Active Memory technology (which suggests that Lexar may finally be preparing to ship memory cards with Active Memory built-in).


Photo Mechanic 4.4.2 is available for download from the Camera Bits web site.

Selasa, 21 Februari 2006

Nikon Coolpix L2, L3 and L4 Announced

Nikon also today brings us three new L series models; the Coopix L2, L3 and L4. These entry-level cameras offer 6, 5 and 4 million pixels respectively and all of them feature a 3x zoom and a 2.0-inch screen.

Three compact digital cameras offering exceptional design and high-quality finish, with easy operability so anyone can take a better class of picture

Tokyo — Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX L2, COOLPIX L3 and COOLPIX L4 entry-level digital compact cameras.

The trio combines an array of high-quality components including a 3x Zoom-Nikkor lens and a bright 2.0-inch LCD screen with in-camera image-improvement features, housed in lightweight, compact yet elegantly finished bodies.

All three cameras boast powerful 3x Zoom-Nikkor lenses with a focal range equivalent to that of a 38-116mm (114mm for the COOLPIX L4) (35mm equivalent), providing the freedom to zoom in for tight personal portraits, or out to capture expansive outdoor scenes.

The CCD delivers higher performance within tighter dimensions, greatly adding to the cameras’ compact form and portability while offering generous effective megapixel values of 6.0 for the COOLPIX L2, 5.1 for the COOLPIX L3, and 4.0 for the COOLPIX L4, ensuring the refined image clarity that users have come to expect from other members of the COOLPIX family.

All three latest L series models also feature a bright, easy-to-view 2.0-inch LCD that’s now even easier to operate with new icons and function selections as well as a new colour scheme that is easier on the eye.

The specific design aspects of the COOLPIX L2, L3 and L4 make it streamlined and comfortable to hold, with a smooth, elegant finish that suggests a much higher level of sophistication. The curved grip contributes both to the cameras’ design elegance and their shooting stability.

The strikingly compact dimensions and light camera weight make the L2, L3 and L4 ideal for taking anywhere the user may go, reinforced by the convenience of AA-size battery compatibility. One of the most widely available battery sizes in the world - in alkaline, lithium, rechargeable or other forms - AA compatibility allows near-ubiquitous use anywhere in the world.

In common with the entire current COOLPIX digital camera range, these three latest additions feature a number of Nikon inspired capabilities that give the user the power to automatically improve recorded images in-camera. Available in playback mode, for example, the D-Lighting function selects and creates a copy of images with excessive backlight or insufficient flash illumination, adding light and detail wherever needed while keeping other areas as they were.

Nikon’s Face-priority AF* function automatically detects and focuses in on people’s faces, regardless of where they are in the frame, ensuring superb crisp-focus portraits. The In-Camera Red-Eye Fix function analyses each image, automatically finding and then correcting the accidental red-eye that sometimes occurs in flash photography, for more natural-looking portraits.

A choice of 15 different Scene modes – four with Scene assist – makes the challenge of achieving desired results in a wide range of everyday situations that much simpler. By choosing the Scene mode best suited to the subject at hand, the COOLPIX L2, L3 or L4 automatically selects the ideal settings for exactly the picture you had in mind, whether indoor party or outdoor nighttime fireworks display. Scene assist displays useful framing guides in the monitor, helping the user compose shots for optimal results.

All three of the latest COOLPIX L class cameras are compatible with widely available SD memory cards. The provision of 23MB of internal memory for the COOLPIX L2 and L3 and 10MB for the COOLPIX L4 allows the user to keep shooting when no additional memory is available, as well as easily moving images from one SD card to another.

This latest trio of COOLPIX digital cameras also offer movie-shooting capability** in three sizes: TV movie size (640) for viewing on TV or computers; convenient Small size (320); and Smaller size (160) for extended recording or Internet usage.

With the COOLPIX L2, L3 and L4, ease of use and convenience are still priorities, even when the shooting is over. Printing is kept simple, with PictBridge capability enabling connection to a compatible printer without the need of a computer and USB connectivity eases data transfer to computers and other peripherals.

Completing the picture is the complimentary PictureProject accessory software, which greatly simplifies the importing, editing and organizing of images, and even offers compatibility with a range of plug-ins that allows functions to be extended on demand.

Sales release schedule: This camera is scheduled for release in February 2006.

Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.

* Face-recognition capability may be limited in some shooting conditions.
** COOLPIX L4 without sound.

Nikon COOLPIX L2/L3/L4 Feature Highlights

High performance from a small CCD

Utilizing space-efficient design parameters that help facilitate the compact size of the COOLPIX L2/L3/L4, the 1/2.5-inch CCD adds the advantage of outstandingly high performance. Boasting effective pixel values of 6 million for the COOLPIX L2, 5.1 million for the COOLPIX L3, and 4 million for the COOLPIX L4, the CCD enables the capture of crisp-focus images that retain their high quality even when significantly enlarged.

3x zoom capability

The remarkably compact dimensions of the COOLPIX L-line cameras belie the incorporation of powerful 38-116mm (114mm for COOLPIX L4) Zoom-Nikkor lenses (35mm equivalent), ensuring the freedom of a 3x zoom. These precision lenses allow zooming in for tightly composed portraits, or zooming way out for expansively wide views, providing greater compositional independence than the average digital camera. Macro mode allows shooting from as close as 4cm for the COOLPIX L4, and 10cm for the COOLPIX L2 and L3.

Simple-to-use features improve images in-camera


A range of unique Nikon functions enables the photographer to actually improve images in-camera. Available in playback mode, the D-Lighting function selects and creates a copy of images with excessive backlight or insufficient flash illumination, adding light and detail wherever needed while keeping other areas as they were. The Face-priority AF function automatically detects and then focuses in on people’s faces, regardless of where they are in the frame, ensuring superb crisp-focus portraits. The In-Camera Red-Eye Fix function analyzes each image, automatically finding and then correcting any accidental red-eye, which sometimes occurs in flash photography, to produce more natural-looking portraits.

AA-size battery compatibility

Despite their compact dimensions, the COOLPIX L2, L3 and L4 are compatible with AA-size batteries, one of the most widely available battery sizes in the world. The power to shoot approximately 180 shots for the COOLPIX L2, 200 shots for the COOLPIX L3, and 250 shots for the COOLPIX L4 when using alkaline batteries greatly augments their compact convenience.

Nikon COOLPIX L2/L3/L4 Other Features

* Unique combination of all-round quality, ease of operation, and elegant styling makes COOLPIX L2, COOLPIX L3, and COOLPIX L4 the compact digital camera of choice for entry-level photographers
* Compact, portable dimensions for COOLPIX L2 and L3 of 91 x 60.5 x 26mm (3.6 x 2.4 x 1.0 in.) (W x H x D); COOLPIX L4: 86.5 x 60.5 x 34.5mm (3.4 x 2.4 x 1.4 in.)
* Light weight for COOLPIX L2 and L3 of approx. 120g (4.2 oz) (without battery and SD memory card); COOLPIX L4: approx. 115g (4.1 oz) (without battery and SD memory card)
* BSS (Best Shot Selector) automatically selects the shot with the sharpest focus from a series of consecutive images
* Blur Warning informs user after shooting if an image is blurred
* Time zone function enables local time to be set regardless of where you are in the world
* Single AF and Continuous AF selectable in Movie mode
* Capture modes: Single, Continuous and Multi-Shot 16 for COOLPIX L2 and L3; Single and Multi-Shot 16 for the L4
* Built-in flash: features settings for Auto, Auto with red-eye reduction (In-Camera Red-Eye Fix), Off, Fill Flash and Slow sync.
* Noise reduction provides more attractive results in low-light conditions
* Digital zoom of up to 4x
* Choice of White Balance: Auto with TTL control, 6-mode manual (Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Flash and White Bal. Preset)
* USB connectivity allows quick and easy data transfer to computers and other peripherals

Nikon Coolpix S5 and S6 Announced

Nikon today announced the Coolpix S5 and S6, both offering 6 million pixels, large LCD screens (2.5" and 3.0" respectively) and a new PictMotion function that allows users to select favourite images, movie files and music files to create slideshows with a difference. The COOLPIX S6 also features built-in Wi-Fi capability.

Two exciting digital compacts packing new photo-sharing entertainment into attractive wave-surface designs


Tokyo – Nikon Corporation is delighted to announce two exciting new cameras – the COOLPIX S5 and S6. The stylish models have been built with the sharing and enjoyment of digital photography in mind, combining high-quality imaging performance with a striking wave-surface design, the ability to improve images in-camera, outstandingly large LCDs and a powerful new Pictmotion function that allows users to create entertaining in-camera shows.

The brand new Pictmotion function lets users create much more than just a slideshow – indeed it enables a radically new form of in-camera entertainment. This allows users to select favourite images and movie files, pick a style, and then select a music file from one of the five pre-installed files in the camera - or even add their own music via PictureProject for Windows only - to suit the show. Pictmotion then automatically analyses all these elements to produce highly entertaining shows that are coupled with pace and transition selected to match the chosen music and style.

These shows can then be played back anywhere, anytime on the ample-sized LCD monitors (COOLPIX S5: 2.5-inch; S6: 3.0-inch), and because each of these monitors offers a surprisingly wide viewing angle of 170° (both horizontal and vertical), such in-camera entertainment can be enjoyed by everyone at the same time. Both cameras also feature Auto Image Rotation, which detects pictures that have been taken with the camera held vertically, automatically rotating them to suit in-camera LCD playback.

With the COOLPIX S5 and S6, image quality is a top priority: both cameras offer a 1/2.5-inch CCD and 6.0 effective megapixel resolution to produce images that stay sharp even when significantly enlarged. They also feature a high-quality 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens with a range of 35-105mm (35mm equivalent) that gives the photographer the flexibility to zoom out for beautiful landscapes, zoom in for tightly-composed portraits, and enjoy macro photography from as close as 4cm.

Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 have been specially designed to be visually appealing as well as easy to use. The eye-catching wave-surface designs are more than just about great styling - their thin, compact dimensions and form make the COOLPIX S5 and S6 really comfortable to hold.

In terms of control, the cameras feature a new Rotary multi-selector that allows fast circular scrolling for speedy image browsing at up to 10 frames per second, a range of buttons that further simplify operation and an on-screen icon with a cursor that tracks circular scrolling, making it easy to select desired features. Furthermore, users can select functions by name or icon according to their personal preference, and all menus and icons have been made easier on the eye with a new color scheme and optimised icon dimensions.

The COOLPIX S5 and S6 also boast a new One-touch portrait button, conveniently located at the top of the camera body, making it much simpler to take better quality pictures by offering easy access to Nikon’s unique Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting functions. With Face-priority AF*, the camera can automatically detect people’s faces in the frame, no matter where they are located, to produce sharply focused portraits.

In-Camera Red-Eye Fix detects the unfortunate red-eye effect that can sometimes happen in flash photography, automatically compensating for it in-camera to produce more pleasing results. D-Lighting (available in playback mode) enables users to improve images that are underexposed or taken with too much back light – creating a copy of the image with light and detail added where necessary while leaving the well-exposed parts exactly the way they were.

The COOLPIX S6 delivers the additional advantage of Wi-Fi capability. Offering IEEE 802.11b/g support, it allows users to send images wirelessly to a computer as soon as they are taken or to transfer in one go all images stored in memory to a computer. The COOLPIX S6 also supports cable-free printing**, enabling images to be sent directly to PictBridge-compatible printers without the need to use a computer .

A selection of 15 Scene modes – 4 with Scene assist – allows COOLPIX S5 and S6 users achieve satisfying results, aided by clear focus and optimal exposure in diverse situations. All the user has to do is select the most appropriate Scene mode best for the scene and compose the shot, leaving the camera to automatically select the optimum settings.

Three movie modes with sound are also available for capturing action at up to 30 frames per second. Both cameras also feature Time-lapse movie shooting capability that allows dramatic results to be created out of slow-moving action, such as shooting a flower blooming or a movie of clouds rushing across the sky, for example.

The COOLPIX S5 and S6 help speed up the user’s search for recorded images thanks to a Calendar function that automatically sorts images according to the date they were taken. For further versatility, the COOLPIX S5 and S6 come complete with the COOL-STATION MV-14 and MV-15 respectively, to allow batteries to be recharged while they are still in the camera. They also offer USB connectivity and can even be hooked up for TV display.

On a final note, the COOLPIX S5 and S6 come bundled with Nikon’s complimentary PictureProject software and an easy-to-use Wireless Camera Setup Utility which employs a simple Wizard to configure the camera for wireless operation. The beauty of PictureProject is that it makes editing pictures, organising shots and sharing images remarkably simple, while a range of available plug-ins lets users extend capabilities as they like.

* Face recognition capability may be limited in some shooting conditions.
** Requires optionally available Wireless Printer Adapter PD-10.

Sales release schedule: This camera is scheduled for release in February 2006.
Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.

Nikon COOLPIX S5/S6 Feature Highlights

Pictmotion with high-quality music


Nikon’s new Pictmotion is much more than a simple slideshow function. Available on both the COOLPIX S5 and COOLPIX S6, it allows you to select your favorite images and movie files, then pick a style and add a music file of your choice from among 5 pre-installed ones, or load your own choice of music* to suit the images. The COOLPIX S5 and S6 then automatically analyze each element to produce an entertaining show with pace and transitions determined by music and style for in-camera viewing anywhere on the generous LCD with an impressive 170° viewing angle that makes it easy for everyone to see. Furthermore, to heighten enjoyment of audio elements, both cameras also feature a large speaker that delivers heightened sound pressure and a sampling frequency increased from 8 to 22kHz that makes for noticeably enhanced sound clarity.
* Via PictureProject for Windows only.

Eye-catching wave-surface design

Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 have been created with a unique wave-surface design that is both esthetically appealing and very comfortable in the hand. They are also available in an attractive range of colors (availability may vary by country or region), with each exterior combining a range of attractive textures comprising a high-grade glossy main aluminum body with elements of protective acrylic, resilient stainless steel and silicone paneling.

Large LCDs

The COOLPIX S5 and S6 feature large 2.5-inch and 3.0-inch 230,000-dot TFT LCDs respectively. Such generous size does away with the need for a viewfinder and makes for easier composition. Both LCDs also offer an impressive 170° viewing angle that makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the playback of still images, movies and entertaining Pictmotion shows anywhere, at any time.

Rotary multi selector and improved GUI


Operation has been made smoother, simpler and faster. A new Rotary multi selector incorporated into the camera back enables high-speed image browsing with circular scrolling action at up to 10 frames per second, while a range of buttons built into the Rotary multi selector make for more intuitive operation. There’s also an on-screen icon with a cursor that tracks Rotary multi selector scrolling to make function selection even simpler still. The COOLPIX S5 and S6 also feature various screens and menus created with a color scheme that’s easier on the eye, functions can be selected by the user’s choice of name or icon, and all icons have been optimized and made clearer for easy viewing.

Built-in Wi-Fi

The COOLPIX S6 features the additional advantage of built-in Wi-Fi capability to add further enjoyment and flexibility to digital photography. Providing IEEE 802.11b/g support, it enables individual images to be wirelessly transferred to computer as soon as they’re recorded, allows all stored images to be sent to a computer simultaneously and also supports cable-free direct printing* with PictBridge-compatible printers.
* Requires optionally available Wireless Printer Adapter PD-10.

One-touch portrait functions

A standalone One-touch portrait button is conveniently located on the top of the COOLPIX S5 and S6, giving direct access to three innovative Nikon features for in-camera improvement. Face-priority AF automatically finds and then focuses on people’s faces no matter where they are in the frame for pleasingly sharp portraits time after time. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix can automatically detect the annoying red-eye effect that sometimes occurs in flash photography, then compensate for it in-camera to give natural-looking portraits. And D-Lighting can improve underexposed images or shots taken with too much back light by creating a copy with light and detail added wherever necessary and well-exposed areas kept exactly as they are.

Nikon COOLPIX S5/S6 Other Features


* Highly compact dimensions of (W x H x D) S5: 93 x 59 x 20mm (3.7 x 2.3 x 0.8 in.); S6: 100.5 x 60 x 21mm (3.9 x 2.4 x 0.8 in.)
* Carry-anywhere light weight (without battery and memory card):
S5: Approx. 135g (4.8 oz.), S6: Approx. 140g (4.9 oz.)
* S5: 21MB (approx.), S6: 20MB (approx.) of internal memory, SD Card compatibility
* BSS (Best Shot Selector) identifies and saves the sharpest shot automatically from ten sequential shots
* Exposure BSS automatically selects and saves the shot most closely matching user-selected criteria from five sequential shots
* USB connectivity supports easy transfer of data to computers and other peripherals
* Swift startup of approx. 0.8 seconds; Continuous shooting at up to 2.2fps
* Date Counter visually records countdown of days to an occasion or number of days since an important event
* Help Button provides easy-to-understand explanations for functions on main menu
* Blur Warning informs user after shooting if an image is blurred
* Menu available in a choice of 20 languages
* Noise Reduction produces better results during low-light conditions
* Time zone function enables the camera clock to be set to local time, anywhere in the world
* 4x digital zoom extends compositional freedom
* Rechargeable EN-EL8 Li-ion Battery (supplied) can shoot approx. 210 shots (S5)/ 200 shots (S6) on a single charge
* Field Jacket FJ-CP1 water-resistant case (optional) lets users keep the COOLPIX dry to underwater depths of 3 meters
* Dock Insert PV-10/PV-11 (supplied) enable direct printing to compatible ImageLink printers
* Choice of White Balance: Auto with TTL control, 6-mode manual (Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Flash and White Bal. Preset)
* Voice recording available for duration of up to 5 hours or until memory capacity is reached

Kamis, 16 Februari 2006

New Pentax and BenQ cameras...

»Pentax unveils the new Optio T10, W10 and M10

16/02/06 from DCVIEWS Digital camera and photography news

February 16, 2006 - 09.30 GMT Pentax unveils three new digital cameras in advance of the PMA show. The Optio T10 offers a 3.0 inch LCD,  6.0 Mp and a 3x optical zoom. The camera will be available for $349. The Optio W10 is a waterproof digital camer..



»Nikon D200

13/02/06 from CNET Reviews - Most Recent Digital cameras

Aggressively priced and stuffed with pro-quality features, the rugged Nikon D200 digital SLR offers the best of the D2X at about one-third the price.



»BenQ E600

16/02/06 from Digital Camera Reviews, Ratings, Tips and Comparisons - Digital Photography Blog

Sliding lens with rotating Lens-Eye design The 2D-Rotating “Lens-Eye” special design make the DC E600 a unique model within the BenQ Digital camera product line featuring a top-tier image quality. The PF mode (Panoramic Focus) also supports y..



»Apple Updates iLife '06

16/02/06 from The Imaging Resource News Page

iTunes gets an update, too, but not GarageBand.



»Panasonic Lumix FX01 sample images

16/02/06 from LetsGoDigital English Edition

Panasonic Lumix FX01 sample images : After the press conference in Lisbon, Portugal, where Panasonic introduced the Panasonic Lumix FX01 digital camera I was able to shoot some pictures with the Panasonic FX01 camera. This ultra-small compact digital Lum..



»Pentax Optio W10

15/02/06 from Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

Pre-PMA 2006: Pentax has revealed the newest addition to its W range of waterproof compacts, the Optio W10. The W10 is a 6 million pixel model (waterproof to 1.5m), featuring a 3x zoom, 2.5-inch LCD screen and a new Face Recognition AF/AE function which d..



»Pentax Optio T10

15/02/06 from Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

Pre-PMA 2006: Pentax has today also announced the Optio T10, which features a large 3-inch LCD with a touch display control system and a Drawing mode that allows you to customize your shots and create your own illustrations. This 6 megapixel camera also h..



»Pentax Optio M10

15/02/06 from Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

Pre-PMA 2006: Last but not least Pentax has introduced the Optio M10, the successor to the Optio S. This 6 megapixel camera offers a 3x optical zoom, large (2.5-inch) LCD and a long battery life - approx 220 images with alkaline AA batteries or 900 images..



»Panasonic KX-PX1 home photo printer

15/02/06 from LetsGoDigital English Edition

Panasonic KX-PX1 home photo printer : Panasonic introduces a new home photo printer, the Panasonic KX-PX1: Superb for printing images captured by the latest Lumix digital cameras in clear and beautiful detail. As household penetration of digital cameras ..



»Panasonic KX-PX10 home photo printer

15/02/06 from LetsGoDigital English Edition

Panasonic KX-PX10 home photo printer : Panasonic introduces a new home photo printer, the Panasonic KX-PX10: Superb for printing images captured by the latest Lumix digital cameras in clear and beautiful detail. As household penetration of digital camera..


Rabu, 08 Februari 2006

iView MediaPro version 3.0.2 released

iView MediaPro for Windows and Mac has been updated to v3.0.2.

The new version adds support for the RAW formats of additional cameras and backs from Panasonic, Leica, Sinar and Mamiya, fixes a number of bugs and improves the speed of scrolling and searching larger catalogs in particular.

V3.0.2 is a free update for registered users of any v3.x version.

Selasa, 07 Februari 2006

Digital camera sales reach all-time high in Canada

Toronto, Ontario (February 7, 2006) — The revolution in picture-taking has reached its zenith, matching predictions made several years ago. Canada's switchover from filmbased picture-taking to digital picture-taking is close to being complete. This statement is based on data released today by the Canadian Imaging Trade Association (CITA).

The revolution has been a short one, lasting a handful of years, and its effects will continue to be felt for decades to come. What we have seen is digital camera prices declining while their capabilities and performance have increased, delivering picture quality that is all but indistinguishable from a photographic print. What was slow to launch but now picking up speed is having prints made from these digital pictures, not just storing them on a computer. Increasingly, digital camera users are returning to stores to have photo-quality prints made from their electronic images, or are using retailers' do-it-yourself kiosks or online print-making services. Regardless of the method used, the results are the same: the number of prints made at retail from electronic images is increasing.

But the story does not end there, as countless images are made at home on photoquality inkjet printers: We have not lost the desire to capture the times of our lives.

“It's an exciting time for our industry,” says Kent Hatton, Chairman, CITA Statistics Committee. “Digital imaging has revitalized the picture-taking experience, and provided new ways to capture, discover, share and print. In many key segments we are seeing tremendous growth and will continue to do so in the years to come.”

Cameras
In 2004, manufacturers shipped about 2.3 million digital cameras to Canadian retailers, a 53 percent increase compared to 2003. This followed a 69 percent increase from 2002 levels to 2003.

In 2005, the growth rate slowed to 7 percent compared to 2004, with slightly less than 2.5 million digital cameras sold into the Canadian dealer network.

2005 – 2,500,000
2004 - 2,300,000
2003 - 1,500,000
2002 - 880,000
(all approx. values, numbers rounded off)

While representing about 98,000 units, digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras had the highest category growth with a 64 percent increase in 2005 compared to 2004, far outstripping the projections. This sector is expected to be the biggest performer again this year, as advanced amateurs and professionals recognize the high quality output these cameras can attain.

Conventional film camera sales declined significantly in 2005 and are expected to continue to drop this year.

CITA is forecasting a slight growth in digital camera sales in 2006, but an overall unit sales decline for all cameras of 2 percent, simply because of the further erosion in film camera demand.

Consumer Film
Film sales in 2005 continued to be adversely affected by the switch to digital cameras. Total sales of film closed out the year at 20.6 million rolls. That’s a decline of about 34 percent compared to 2004.

There seems little doubt film sales will continue to decline. CITA forecasts an approximately 30 percent decline in total film sales to 14.5 million rolls in 2006.

Because of improvements in film design, films with higher speeds – ISO 400 and 800 – continue to be the films of choice for consumers. They deliver greater versatility, being able to shoot under a variety of conditions while delivering excellent quality results. As predicted, ISO 400- and 800-speed films accounted for approximately 64 percent of sales in 2005 compared to 63 percent in 2004 and 58 percent in 2003. The expectation is that this growth will level out and hold at 2005 levels.

Single-Use Cameras
Last year, single-use cameras began to feel the affects of the traditional film capture market decline, however at a lower rate of decline than traditional roll film because of their ease of use, good results and continued relevance in an increasingly digital world.

Unit shipments in 2005 were 5.8 million, representing slightly less than a 23 percent decline compared to 2004. Single-use cameras are inexpensive, available everywhere, take good quality pictures, and are a handy substitute when you have forgotten or don’t want to risk your main camera. They take good quality pictures, remarkable for a product that is completely recyclable when the entire camera is returned for photofinishing.

A continued decline is projected in 2006 with total single-use camera sales expected to be 5.2 million units, down slightly less than 11 percent.

Professional Film
Professional film sales continued the trend of recent years with increasing rates of decline in both colour negative and colour reversal films as professional image makers convert to digital. Professional colour reversal film unit sales declined 40 percent while professional colour negative film unit sales declined about 44 percent.

The rate of decline is expected to begin to level out in 2006 with professional colour reversal film unit sales forecast to decline 40 percent and professional colour negative film unit sales forecast to decline 43 percent.

Colour Roll Paper
Colour roll paper – used by photofinishers to make prints – continued its trend of increasing rates of decline year over year in 2005, albeit at a much lower rate than film. Colour roll paper 6 inches or less in width declined at a rate of almost 19 percent to 33,156,000 square meters. Colour roll paper 8 inches or larger in width declined at about 27 percent to 3,123,000 square meters. Overall, this category was down about 19 percent.

In 2006 the rate of decline is expected to moderate as consumers print more digitally-captured images. Colour paper is therefore forecast to decline about 17 percent overall to 30,000,000 square meters – 6 inch or narrower will decline 17 percent and 8 inch or larger will decline less than 20 percent.

Binoculars and Spotting Scopes
Overall demand for binoculars softened in 2005 with more than 261,000 units sold. This represents a decrease of slightly less than 18 percent compared to 2004. Compact binoculars continue to be the most popular, outselling full size binoculars by a ratio of nearly 2:1.

For the third year in a row, full size binoculars – 10X and higher – enjoyed double digit growth. In 2005, unit sales of this category increased by 64 percent compared to 2004, continuing the consumer trend towards full size binoculars with more powerful magnification.

Spotting scope sales in 2005 were again relatively stable at approximately 11,500 units, representing a slight decrease of 2 percent compared to the previous year.

-30-

Founded in 1955, the Canadian Imaging Trade Association is the association of manufacturers/importers and distributors of photographic/electronic imaging equipment and sensitized materials.

Senin, 06 Februari 2006

Adobe Camera RAW 3.3 now with D200 Camera Support

The Photoshop Camera Raw plug-in has been updated to support more cameras and includes more features. Available as part of Adobe Photoshop CS2, the news is that Adobe has now posted the final (non-beta) Camera RAW 3.3 plug-in with full official support for the Nikon D200.

Photo Mechanic posts bug fixes in 4.4.1.1

Camera Bits has posted Photo Mechanic 4.4.1.1 for Windows and Mac, a maintenance release of the pro photo browser that fixes crashing bugs in v4.4.1. Check the Read Me for change details.

Minggu, 05 Februari 2006

Fuji S4 Pro | more Speculation

More Fujifilm S4 Pro rumors circulating, today it's about a diagram depicting the structure for the new S4's sensor design.
Fuji S4 Pro

The image mentions a DX 13.2 mega pixel super sensor, also using the Nikon mount, no surprise there, and it looks like it will not be full framed.

Kamis, 02 Februari 2006

Alien Skin announces Exposure, a film effects Photoshop plug-in

Alien Skin announces Exposure, a Photoshop plug-in that produces a range of film effects, including the look of 31 different film stocks, Velvia and Kodachrome among them. Other effects include simulating the appearance of film grain, push-processing, cross-processing, and soft-focus filters.

The plug-in is works with Photoshop CS or later on Windows and Mac. A 30-day trial version is available for download from the Alien Skin web site.

Duracell Offers New Battery Engineered For Digital Cameras

February 2, 2006 - Duracell has announced the PowerPix today, a new battery designed specifically for use in digital cameras. The PowerPix, which comes in AA and AAA sizes, is a Nickel Oxy Hydroxide battery which Duracell claims has longer-lasting performance than an alkaline battery.

The battery is disposable, not rechargeable, but Duracell claims it has twice the power than that found in an alkaline battery.

Duracell, in order to further clarify options for digital camera users, has also announced today that it will be launching an “educational digital imaging guide” on their product packaging. The guide will feature recommendations on battery choice depending on the buyer’s digital camera use.

Both the AA and AAA PowerPix batteries will come in four or eight packs; Duracell’s retail recommendation for a four pack is $5.99.

Phase One adjusts production capacity of P-series camera backs

NEWS! -: "Phase One A/S, Copenhagen, (Thursday, February 02, 2006): Phase One, the world leader in digital imaging solutions, increases production capacity of its new P-series digital camera backs in response to high demand.

Orders for both the P 30 and P 45 have exceeded Phase One’s initial projections. The new backs only became available in December and already over 1000 have been shipped.

Increasing production will fulfill all existing order commitments by the end of April. It will also ensure the market is well supplied for future expected demand.

Why the demand?
The P 45 and P 30 are the superior choice of available digital camera backs for professional digital photographers.

The P 45 is the ultimate digital camera back and intended primarily for commercial photographers in the advertising and marketing fields. It offers unsurpassed image quality with its 39 mega pixel sensor and 117 MB per file size capabilities.

UK based photographer Trevor Burton of BlackBlue Photographic said: 'The quality of the P 45 is outstanding... One of my competitors did not believe that such a high pixel camera back existed, until I pointed out to him that I had one'

The P 30 is aimed at the world’s leading fashion, portrait and social photographers. It couples a fast capture rate of 45 frames per minute with incredible image quality using its 31.6 mega pixel sensor.

Both backs offer superior sharpness, virtually Moir�free captures, perfect skin tone shading and the smoothest transition and tonal range.

Phase One's software strategy puts the photographer first
Photographers using Phase One’s products gain a unique competitive advantage. By concentrating on the requirements of professional photographers, Phase One’s tools adjust to the needs of photographers rather than making photographers adjust to their tools. Focus is placed on the moment of capture resulting in an unrivalled end product. The combination of Phase One digital camera backs with Capture One workflow software streamlines the postproduction process making it easy for photographers to reproduce complicated looks and styles. Phase One’s strategy of industry leading, uncompromised quality has been a key driver in the demand for the P-series digital camera backs.

The new P 21 back
The demand for the P 30 and P 45 bodes well for the success of the latest addition to Phase One’s P-series digital camera backs — the P 21.

At 60 frames per minute, the P 21 offers the fastest capture rate of the three new camera backs, but still delivers high quality end results by creating 54 MB processed image files. The P 21 will begin shipping at the end of March 2006.

Espen Beck, Product Manager, Phase One said: “The demand for our new P Series digital camera backs confirms Phase One’s position as the world leader in digital imaging solutions for professional photographers. We’re confident that the P 21 will prove as successful as the P 30 and P 45 when we begin shipping it in March.”"

Rabu, 01 Februari 2006

Sony, Toshiba and NEC Electronics To Work Together On 45-nm Chip Development - News, Guides, Tips - Reviews, Ratings & Comparisons

Now here's an interesting collaboration-

Sony, Toshiba and NEC Electronics To Work Together On 45-nm Chip Development - News, Guides, Tips - Reviews, Ratings & Comparisons: "Sony, Toshiba and NEC Electronics To Work Together On 45-nm Chip Development

February 1, 2006 – Sony, Toshiba and NEC Electronics have announced a joint venture to develop LSI process technology for a 45-nanometer (nm) system chip.

NEC and Sony cite “high-speed data processing, as well as lower power consumption, and smaller chip dimensions” as the obvious advantages of 45-nm generation technology. Toshiba concurs, emphasizing the ability to “raise development efficiency and further accelerate the pace of development.”

Toshiba and NEC had made an earlier agreement in November of 2005 to work on 45-nm process technology. Sony and Toshiba had announced a similar collaboration in February of 2004; engineers from Sony and Toshiba companies have been working at the Advanced Microelectronics Center owned by Toshiba in Yokohama, Japan ever since. All three companies coming together will now allow even more intra-company access to development teams that have been working on LSI process technologies. Employees from each of the three companies working on the project will now all work at the Advanced Microelectronics Center in Japan.

The chip is obviously smaller and lighter, but most importantly consumes less power, making it ideal for use in devices like digital cameras, mobile phones, LCDs and DVD players. Nanometer in the 45-nanometer system chip refers to the “smallest feature on the chip” that is no bigger than a nanometer, a millionth of a millimeter. Several companies are racing to be the first to maximize this technology.

Sony, Toshiba and NEC Electronics each see this as a more cost effective and efficient way to research, develop and implement the technology, as well as a means of getting it to market sooner."

Sony announces 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo PSP

Sony has launched its new 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, being included in special promotional packs for the PlayStation®Portable. The Memory Stick PRO Duo's increased storage capacity enables it to hold large amounts of digital photos, music files, videos and games as well as podcasts and video blogs.

The Memory Stick PRO Duo's increased storage capacity enables it to hold large amounts of multimedia data including digital photos, music files, videos and games as well as podcasts and video blogs. Users will be able to make full use of the PSP™'s powerful multi-media capabilities, utilising the enhanced mobile storage capacity now available while on the move. In addition, a USB cable is also included in the new Memory Stick kit to store data from a PC and view it on the PSP™.

The new 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo complements the existing line-up of Memory Stick PRO Duo media kits for the PSP, available in capacities ranging between 256MB and 1GB. The availability of the 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo promotion pack for the PSP™will vary from country to country and be available at an estimated end-user price of 175 EUROs incl. VAT.