Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips
HP today announced the newest additions to its digital photography portfolio, designed to empower customers to do more with their digital assets across the printing ecosystem at retail, online or at home.
The technologies are being demonstrated in the HP booth in Hall 4.1 at Photokina 2008, one of the world’s largest photography tradeshows for consumers, professionals and retailers. [Read more…]
Lensbaby is changing up its line of bendable lenses, according to an announcement at Photokina. The company is also adding an entirely new lens, the Composer. The Composer relies on ball-and-socket twisting with a focusing ring, rather the bellows bend/focus system of older Lensbaby lenses. It also has an Optic Swap system, allowing you to swap the lenses inside the Composer for different options.
The Lensbaby original is being replaced by the Muse, which is mostly similar but will have the Optic Swap system. The Lensbaby 3G is being replaced by the Control Freak, also with the Optic Swap system.
The Sigma Corporation (COO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the new SIGMA SD15 digital SLR camera. This camera is the latest model in Sigma’s digital SLR camera SD series, powered by the 14 megapixel Foveon X3 direct-image-sensor it can capture all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location arranged in three layers. The developing SD15 incorporates the “TRUE II” new image processing engine. It provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images rich in gradation and impressive three-dimensional detail. Incorporation of the large 3.0 inch LCD monitor and improved processing speed provide ease of operation of the camera. [Read more…]
The Sigma DP2 is a 14-megapixel compact, yet powerful digital camera. The DP2 features a 24.2mm f/2.8 fixed lens, which is equivalent to a 41mm lens on a full frame camera.
Great images can come from the DP2. The lens is wonderful and the Foveon X3 sensor lives up to much (if not quite all) of the hype surrounding it. But the fact of the matter is that issues like the abysmal AF speed will cause many photographers to stay away from this camera.
Picture quality at low ISO settings is simply breathtaking, especially when viewing the X3 Raw files using the supplied Sigma Photo Pro software.
True to Sigma’s marketing claims the DP2 is capable of producing a high-quality low-to-moderate-ISO image file very comparable to that of a DSLR with an APS-C sensor. Indeed the DP2’s images can often best those of other cameras in the DP2’s size/price class.
Low-light performance was only marginally better than we found with the DP1, with a severe loss of colour in long exposures that was reflected in both JPEG and raw files. Noise and colour shifts became increasingly obvious from ISO 400 on and 15-second exposures shot at ISO 800 were almost unusable.
Push aside all of the uncool characteristics, focus on what it can do—shooting relatively still objects at relatively close range—and you get some seriously attractive photo work.
The Sigma Corporation (COO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the new Sigma DP2 compact digital camera featuring a 14 megapixel FOVEON X3 direct image sensor (2,652 × 1,768 × 3 layers) as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR.
Sigma introduced the DP1 with a direct image sensor as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR to the market in March 2008 as a “unique, groundbreaking, compact digital camera with all the power of a digital SLR”. The multi award winning DP1 has established strong support from a wide range of photographers both amateur and professional. Building on this success, the DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, for increasing creative possibilities and superior image quality, improving handling and performance.
This product is showcased at Photokina 2008 in Koln, Germany.
The size of the image sensor used in the DP2 camera is 20.7mm x 13.8mm. It is approximately seven to twelve times larger than the 1/1.8inch to 1/2.5inch image sensors used in ordinary compact digital cameras. The pixel size of the image sensor is 7.8?m. The large photodiodes deployed at a large pixel pitch capture pure, rich light efficiently and give the DP2 its high resolution and richly-graduated tones.
The DP2 uses the same 14 megapixel (2,652×1,768×3 layers) direct image sensor as the SD14 and DP1. Utilizing the special features of silicon, which is penetrated to different depths by different wavelengths of light, this direct image sensor succeeds in full-color capture with the full RGB in a single-pixel location. Since the moiré is not generated, use of a low-pass filter is not needed because full information of light and color can be captured with three-dimensional feeling.
The DP2 incorporates “TRUE II” which is an improved version of “TRUE” (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world’s first image processing engine suited for the three silicon embedded layer direct image sensor. The unique image-processing algorithm, which has been developed throughout the development of the SD series digital SLR cameras and DP1, is incorporated into “TRUE II”.
The DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, which has been designed exclusively for DP2. Two molded glass aspherical lenses provide superior image quality. The Super Multi Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. This lens and SLR-sized image sensor combination provides natural shallow depth-of-field and attractive bokeh effect.
The DP2 includes a RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for convenience. The RAW data format uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the DP2 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color of RGB data which, when processed in Sigma Photo Pro, will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.
The DP2 comes complete with SIGMA Photo Pro software, a RAW image developer that converts all RAW data quickly and easily. djustments can be made in three separate modes. The X3F Mode stores the original settings of the image at the point of capture. In the Auto Adjustment Mode, the software analyzes and automatically makes adjustments to the RAW data. The Custom Mode allows the photographer to make individual adjustments. The photographer can make changes easily and quickly by simply adjusting the slider controls within the software.
The DP2 has compact dimensions of 113.3mm/4.5in(W)x59.5mm/2.3in(H)x54.6mm/2.1in(D). Its compact body and lightweight design makes it easy to carry everywhere.
The DP2 has three metering modes, Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted Average Metering and Spot Metering. It is also possible to select the exposure mode from Program AE, Shutter Priority AE, Aperture Priority AE or Manual. Exposure compensation can be set in 1/3 stop increments from +3.0 to -3.0 stops and an auto bracketing function is also available.
The DP2 is equipped with a pop up (manual) built-in flash. It is possible to use Normal Flash, Red-Eye Reduction Flash and Slow Synchro Mode. It also features flash exposure compensation in 1/3 stops increments.
Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not effective. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.
The DP2 camera features large 2.5 inch TFT color LCD monitor. The LCD monitor displays 100% of the images, allowing the photographer to easily and accurately confirm the image compensation.
The DP2 camera is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) as well as Sigma electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG. This hot shoe is also used to attach high performance view finder VF-21 (optional).
* EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG flashgun series can be used in manual mode only.
It is possible to attach the dedicated lens hood to block out extraneous light. It also functions as an adapter, designed to accept the 46mm Close-up Lens and 46mm filters.
* A hood adapter HA-21 is sold separately
SAN JOSE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced Adobe® Photoshop® CS4 and Photoshop CS4 Extended, the highly anticipated, new editions of the professional industry standard software for digital imaging. Providing a fluid user experience, complete creative control and higher efficiency, Photoshop CS4 leverages the power of the latest hardware to extend imaging possibilities and offer faster, more flexible ways to accomplish core tasks like image adjustments and masks. All of these features and more can be found in Photoshop CS4 Extended, which serves users with advanced motion graphics functions, dramatically expanded 3D visualization capabilities and precise image analysis.
“Photoshop is about delivering cutting-edge innovation that really pushes the boundaries of digital image editing,” said Kevin Connor, vice president of product management for professional digital imaging at Adobe. “This version is no exception with some stunning new imaging technology that complements our work to bring more control, simplicity and speed to everyday tasks. By streamlining the most popular workflows for the professional, technical or home user, Photoshop CS4 brings new levels of accessibility to the gold standard in digital imaging software.” [Read more…]
This year, Sony has the largest stand at Photokina and will showcase Sony’s latest products from its digital imaging range. This is the first official public showcasing of the new flagship model – the Alpha A900, Sony’s 24.6 megapixel DSLR with full frame sensor – in Europe since its announcement. There will also be a selection of Sony’s new DSLR lenses with seminars held by professional photographers in the professional photo studio.
There will also be a chance to experience ‘Foam City’ – the Sony digital imaging ad which appeared across Europe earlier this year. A giant installation, a replica of Dade Courthouse in Miami (where the ad was filmed) with surrounding buildings, monorail train and terminal, has been built for the event. It will have five bubble machines and is designed by HotHouse IWG, a company which has previously worked on movie sets such as Batman and Nightmare Before Christmas.
Lowepro Addresses Needs of Photographers Who Carry Expensive and Delicate Telephoto LensesPHOTOKINA 2008, KÖLN, Deutschland – September, 23 2008 – Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, introduces the next generation of its pro-level Lens Trekker series, designed for the distinct requirements of nature and sports photographers who carry a telephoto lens and camera gear into rugged environments or crowded sports stadiums. The Lens Trekker 600 AW II addresses the needs of the professional who has a significant investment in expensive telephoto lenses.
The Lens Trekker AW II features an ergonomic, removable and fully adjustable-torso harness system with contoured mesh straps, plus a padded waist belt for added comfort-especially important when carrying heavy equipment to and from locations. Inside the deep and roomy main compartment, thick padding with shock-absorbing foam protects a pro DSLR with attached 600mm telephoto lens, or an unattached 800mm lens, plus lens hood and tripod collar. A Tripod Mount™ attaches to either side of the backpack helping to stabilize the tripod feet while the pack is in motion, and Lowepro’s patented All Weather Cover TM protects the pack against rains, sleet and snow. [Read more…]
Lowepro has announced new shoulder bags, dubbed the Classified AW series. Geared toward the photojournalist photographer, the Classified AW series offers a range of sizes to fit different photographers’ needs. The largest of the four models can even tote a 15.4″ laptop. [Read more…]
The new Samsung HZ1 is a new 10.2 megapixel point and shoot camera, which features a 2.7″ LCD, a 10x zoom lens at 24mm on the wide end and the ability to capture 720p HD video. The HZ1, which is the camera’s tentative name, also offers dual image stabilization, face detection, smile shot and blink detection.
Pretec, who previously announced a 48GB CF card to become the world leader in CF card size, just beat itself with a 100GB card. I suppose the high megapixel cameras will create a need for larger CF cards. Although, I’m not sure that my camera bag is quite ready for a 100GB CF card yet. [Read more…]