Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Archives for 2010

 

Nikon Mirrorless Camera Coming Soon

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Bloomberg is reporting that Nikon President, Makoto Kimura, has confirmed that Nikon will introduce a new interchangeable lens camera (ILC) soon, which could come prior to the end of Nikon’s current fiscal year (i.e., before April 2011).  Kimura also revealed that the new Nikon ILC “will probably have an enhanced function for video recording.” [Read more…]

Canon 5D Mark II Strikes Again, Captures Sony’s Official Cyber-shot Promo Images

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Sony Cyber-shot EXIF 5D Mark II

Canon must really feel flattered with all the press that other camera manufacturers are providing.  Just last week, Panasonic released a behind-the-scenes video (subsequently taken down) that revealed its new Panasonic G2 commercial was shot with the 5D Mark II, although it appeared to be captured with the Panasonic G2 at first blush.

And, while Sony hasn’t gone to the amount of effort that Panasonic did to showcase Canon’s full frame camera, the EXIF data embedded in the promo shots for Sony’s new Cyber-shot cameras (WX5, TX9, T99) reveal that many were shot with the 5D Mark II (see top screen capture). [Read more…]

Sony Cyber-shot TX9

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The Sony Cyber-shot TX9 is a 12.2-megapixel point and shoot camera.  The 12.2MP sensor is a backlit CMOS design and is powered by Sony’s BIONZ processor.  The TX9 features an ultra-compact design, along with a 3.5″ touchscreen display similar to what is found on the Sony Cyber-shot TX7.  Add on top of that, a 4x optical zoom (25-100mm equivalent), Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, and a sensitivity range of ISO 125-3200. [Read more…]

Sony Cyber-shot WX5

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The Sony Cyber-shot WX5 is the more traditionally designed sibling to the Sony TX9.  Like its touchscreen sibling, the WX5 features a 12.2-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and is powered by Sony’s BIONZ processor.  The WX5 features a 5x optical zoom (24-120mm equivalent) with Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, and offers a sensitivity range of ISO 125-3200.   [Read more…]

Sony Cyber-shot T99

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The Sony Cyber-shot T99 is a 14.1 megapixel point and shoot camera with an ultra-slim design. The T99 has a CCD imaging sensor, instead of the backlit CMOS sensors found in some of the higher-end Cyber-shot models like the new Sony Cyber-shot TX9.  However, the T99 includes the same BIONZ processor that now powers the Cyber-shot and Alpha range of cameras.

The T99 offers a 4x optical zoom lens (25-100mm equivalent) and a broad sensitivity range from ISO 80-3200.  These features, combined with Optical SteadyShot, suggest better low-light capability for such a compact camera.

The T99 features a 3″ touchscreen display, much like the previous Sony Cyber-shot TX5.  Additionally, the T99 is equipped with Sony’s signature Sweep Panorama mode, which is capable of underwater operation as well.  Finally, the T99 will capture 720p HD video in MP4 format.

The Sony T99 will carry an initial retail price of about $250.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Joby Gorillapod Magnetic: Memory Cards vs. Magnets

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A few weeks ago when I posted the review of the new Joby Gorillapod Magnetic, I had a few people express concerns about keeping the flexible, magnetic tripod in their camera bags – in close proximity to memory cards.

A couple of those questions came as comments on the review post, and a Joby rep responded in the comment thread with the following:

“As for the questions in the comments, as with all magnets, we don’t recommend prolong exposure. But there shouldn’t be a problem with the every day tossing of things into your bag.”

I thought that sounded like pretty good advice, as I had experienced no incidental issues with the magnets and memory cards.  However, I thought that this issue might be deserving of a little further testing. [Read more…]

Bokeh Masters Kit Giveaway

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Udi over at DIY Photography created the Bokeh Masters Kit as a way to manipulate the shapes of light appearing in your out of focus background.  See the cute hearts in the above image background?

These kits run $35 each – but good news, I’ve got the green light to give away 3 of the Bokeh Masters Kits to Photography Bay readers. [Read more…]

Manfrotto Now Distributing Genus DSLR Cinematography Gear

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Manfrotto just announced that it will serve as the exclusive US distributor for Genus matte boxes, bar systems, sunshades, viewfinders and shoulder mounts geared toward the DSLR cinematographer.

“I am thrilled with this agreement,” said Wayne Schulman, video sales and product manager for Manfrotto Distribution, US. “I view this as a strategic partnership between Genus and Manfrotto/Vitec group to provide the videographer and photographer with a complete camera support system of the highest quality while also offering the most value. Genus’ current product line, which includes a DSLR/Video shoulder mount, follow focus systems and matte box systems along with other interesting accessories for HD video and DSLR’s, is extensive and is a perfect match for Manfrotto Distribution. I am also excited about the future products from Genus which we will have the opportunity to bring to market over the next several months.”

It looks like B&H is already stocking a full line of Genus gear, which you can browse here.