Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Archives for February 2010

Panasonic Patent Reveals DSLR w/ Video Recording and Advanced Video Lenses

By

Panasonic DSLR with Movie Mode

Panasonic has been on a real tear lately with its solid line of Lumix Micro Four Thirds cameras, which feature interchangeable lenses. The latest two Panasonic Micro Four Thirds models, the GH1 and GF1, offer solid HD video capture.  The Panasonic GH1 comes with a 14-140mm HD lens specifically designed for quiet auto operation for use in video recording.  Currently, Panasonic has no DSLRs in its line-up.

Several recent patent applications filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”) indicate that Panasonic may be bringing some of the popular features found in the GH1 and GF1 to a full-on DSLR.  In particular, USPTO Application No. 12/581,286, filed by Panasonic on October 19, 2009, reveals a DSLR (complete with mirror and optical viewfinder) with a video mode, vari-angle LCD, on-board video LED light source and special video-compatible lenses. [Read more…]

 

Deal Alert: Pentax K-x Offers 12.4MP and 720p Video for Under $470

By

Pentax K-x

B&H Photo has some solid deals on the Pentax K-x kits.  Along with the 12.4MP CMOS sensor, it has a 2.7 inch LCD screen, Live View, face detection, 720p HD video capabilities shooting at 24p, HDR bracketing, 4.7 fps, 11 point autofocus, and uses AA batteries.

Pentax K-x (black) w/ 18-55mm lens -$469.95

Pentax K-x (white) w/ 18-55mm lens -$468.95

Pentax K-x (red) w/ 18-55mm lens – $484.95

Pentax K-x (blue) w/ 18-55mm lens – $477.95

Pentax K-x (black) w/ 18-55mm & 50-200mm lenses – $573.95

Pentax K-x (black) w/ 18-55mm and 55-300mm lenses – $649.95

You’ll be hard pressed to find a more affordable entry into the DSLR realm with a camera as capable as the K-x.

Pentax 645D Medium Format Teaser

By

Pentax 645D Teaser

Pentax appears to be teasing us with a campaign geared toward the launch of the fabled 645D medium format camera, which has been rumored and leaked about for some time now.

The teaser, which has changed slightly since its first appearance, suggests an unveiling of the new camera in March at or around the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show in Japan.

Stay tuned.

Nikon D3s vs. Canon 1D Mark IV ISO Comparison – Part II

By

Canon 1D Mark IV vs. Nikon D3s

In the first comparison of the Canon 1D Mark IV and Nikon D3s, we looked at JPEG image samples that came straight from each of these cameras; however, I promised to deliver images processed from the RAW files of each camera as well.

As we are well aware by now, the Canon 1D Mark IV and Nikon D3s deliver impressive results at what were previously ridiculous sensitivity settings.  To see the results of the various RAW conversion methods on images produced by these class-leading cameras, keep reading.

[Read more…]

Apple Aperture 3

By

Apple Aperture 3

Apple has announced Aperture 3, which offers a number of improvements over Aperture 2, including Faces, Places and Brushes.  Obviously, the big news for photographers is the ability to make local adjustments with the Brushes tool.  Additionally, Aperture 3 allows you to import HD video from your DSLRs and even edit it make your own movie without ever leaving Aperture.  It also includes the ability to easily export video files to Apple’s Final cut software.

Aperture 3 is available for $200 or as an upgrade for Aperture 2 users for $100.

More details at Apple.com and in the press release below. [Read more…]