Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Photographer Websites: What Buyers Want Now

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Photoshelter has been doing their homework. They’ve also been doing your homework for you. Photoshelter conducted a survey of image buyers and figured out what they want to see from your photography site and what makes it easier for customers to buy your images.

Additionally, Photoshelter has made it easier for you to take action and give buyers what they want with their photography website templates.

Some of the survey results are eye-openers.  And others . . . well, if you are using autoplay music on your website, stop.  Seriously, stop now.

Get the lowdown on the survey and Photoshelter’s plan in the press release below.

[Read more…]

 

Digital Foci Photo Book

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This new Photo Book from Digital Foci is not so much of a book as it is a digital photo browser with a nice pleather binder.  It has an 8″ screen and is set to be available in May for $189.  More info in the press release below.

A couple of questions for you wedding photographers:

1. Is this something you would use to show proofs to clients or would you rather use a laptop?

2. Would you consider adding this as part of a package or an extra (i.e., clients take the digital album home loaded with their photos)?

Add your thoughts in the comments below.

[Read more…]

Ricoh CX1 Reviews and Resources

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The Ricoh CX1 is a 9.29 megapixel point and shoot camera for those who are a little more serious about their point and shooting.  It features a 28-200mm zoom equivalent lens and allows you to capture what is essentially HDR images through a double shot mode.

The CX1 also features a 3″ LCD with 920,000 dot resolution, which is generally something reserved for pricier DSLRs.  The CX1 has a lot of potential – hopefully, it will live up to it.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Ricoh CX1 Reviews

Trusted Reviews

The Ricoh CX1 is a very accomplished camera from one of the veteran names in the industry.

Digicam Review

Image quality is generally very good – with good colour, saturation and contrast. Noise is noticable but photos come out quite smooth with few hot pixels, compared to the competition, and detail is generally good (until ISO800 and above).

Buy-n-Shoot

Within it’s price range, the Ricoh CX1 is a solid unit both literally and performance-wise that ought to be considered as a contender for your business.

Ricoh CX1 Press Release

Tokyo, Japan, February 19, 2009—Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Shiro Kondo) today announced the development and release of the CX1, a new digital camera with a 7.1x optical wide-angle zoom lens (28-200 mm in 35 mm film equivalent focal length). The CX1’s expanded dynamic range of 12 EV equivalent makes it possible to capture high-contrast scenes in a way not possible with earlier models.

With new image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine IV and a new high-speed image processing CMOS sensor installed, the CX1 achieves greater image quality while at the same time expanding dynamic range with its dynamic range double shot mode.

In addition, functions such as multi-pattern auto white balance (sets white balance based on the light sources of segregated areas of the image) and multi-target AF (shoots consecutive images at seven focal distances automatically defined by the camera) enable the new CX1 to create beautiful images giving an almost naked-eye impression.

The CX1 has a large 3.0-inch 920,000-dot VGA monitor and high-speed continuous shooting functions at approximately 4 frames/second that make it even easier to enjoy photography. This is a digital camera that takes the design concept “A tool you will want to use every day” to a new level of perfection.

Main features of the new CX1

1. Greater image quality from a new image processing engine and new image sensor.
• The CX1 has the new image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine IV and a new high-speed image processing CMOS sensor. In high-sensitivity shooting conditions, these enhancements result in greater resolution than previous models and also reduce noise without compromising color reproduction.
• The addition of a customized circuit to the image processing engine has made it possible to include a pixel output interpolation algorithm that expands the CX1’s dynamic range by up to 1 EV compared to conventional methods. This reduces whiteout in high-contrast situations and recreates the beauty seen by the eye.
2. Dynamic range double shot mode for excellent reproduction of both light and dark areas.
• The transformation of the image processing engine and the image sensor has enabled the CX1 to do high-speed continuous shooting. This, in turn, has made it possible to create dynamic range double shot mode, which takes high-speed consecutive shots of two still images with different exposures and then records an image that combines the properly exposed portions of each. Expanding the dynamic range up to a maximum equivalent to 12 EV, this mode makes it possible to record images that give an almost naked-eye impression.
• It is possible to also record a normal image in addition to the expanded-dynamic-range image so you can check the results immediately after shooting.
3. The multi-pattern auto white balance function gives the optimum color reproduction when shooting subjects mixing different color temperatures.
• For scenes with both shadow and sunlight and scenes mixing flash and natural light (or fluorescent light, etc.) during flash photography, this function can define white balance to fit the light source of each segregated area of the image. This enhances image quality in people-photography situations that were difficult to shoot with the old auto white balance function.
4. High-definition 3.0-inch 920,000-dot VGA monitor.
• The large, high-resolution LCD monitor has a wide viewing angle and high contrast. The screen has a fluorine coat to prevent soiling, a hard coat to prevent scratches, and an anti-reflection coat to give greater visibility even outdoors in bright sunshine.
• The optimum fonts are used for high visibility on the VGA monitor, and greater camera operability is achieved with an enhanced setting-screen design easily readable at a glance. There is also an 81-image playback screen display function useful when checking images during playback.
• Image framing during shooting is now easier as a result of the addition of a shooting information display frame which does not superimpose shooting information over the image itself.
5. With the multi-target AF function, the camera automatically finds seven focal distances and shoots at each one in succession.
• The camera automatically decides seven focus points and does high-speed consecutive shooting of seven images while shifting the focus to each point. After shooting, you can select the image with the preferred focus. This function is effective for scenes (such as flowers) where there is a narrow range for a sharp focus.
* The consecutively shot images are recorded as a single MP file (a file format with multiple still images in a single file).
6. Enhanced high-speed continuous shooting functions catch the decisive movement of moving subjects.
• In continuous shooting mode, it is possible to do high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 4 frames/second for still images with the maximum number of pixels.
* Continuous shooting speed will vary depending on shooting conditions, card type, card condition, etc.
• The M-continuous plus shooting function does continuous shooting that saves the 30 images (30 frames/sec.) taken during the one second or so before the finger is removed from the shutter release button or the 30 images (15 frames/sec.) taken during the two seconds before. By taking your finger from the shutter release just after the decisive moment has passed, you can be sure that you caught it.
* Image size is fixed at N1728 (2M).
* The consecutively shot images are recorded as a single MP file (a file format with multiple still images in a single file).
• With ultra-high-speed continuous shooting, the CX1 shoots 120 images (120 frames/sec.) during an interval of about one second after the shutter release button is pushed, or 120 images (60 frames/sec.) during an interval of about two seconds.
* Image size is fixed at N640 (VGA).
* The consecutively shot images are recorded as a single MP file (a file format with multiple still images in a single file).
7. A 7.1x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 28-200 mm focal length for 35 mm cameras) in a body optimized for ease of use as a photographic tool.
• Ricoh’s original double retracting lens system has made it possible to fit a 7.1x optical wide-angle zoom lens in a body that is both easy to carry and easy to operate.
• This lens can handle a wide range of shooting situations, including powerful telephoto shots as well as wide-angle shooting of both expansive landscapes and interior scenes with limited distance between camera and subject.
8. Popular macro photography functions.
• With the macro photography functions you can get as close to the subject as 1 cm for wide-angle* and 25 cm for telephoto. *Equivalent to 32 mm focal length for 35 mm cameras
• When shooting up close in easy shooting mode, the camera will automatically switch to macro mode so you can enjoy macro photography without the inconvenience of mode switching.
9. A wide range of functions inspired by the “A tool you will want to use every day” concept.
• Electronic level utilizing an acceleration sensor.
• Image sensor shift blur reduction function to reduce hand-motion blurring.
• Face mode that automatically identifies subject faces and optimizes face focus, exposure, and white balance.
• Easy shooting mode for photographic fun with simple operations.
• Minimum shooting distance display function that shows on the monitor the minimum shooting distance, which changes depending on the zoom setting.
• Aspect ratio (vertical/horizontal ratio) 1:1 square format photography function.
• Image flag function to enable the quick display of specific images from among those in the camera.
• The ability to switch from frame to frame with the still image display remaining enlarged in playback mode.

CX1 Option
Accessory Name Model
Rechargeable Battery DB-70
Battery Charger BJ-7
Soft Case (black) SC-90BK
Soft Case (brown) SC-90BN
Neck Strap ST-2
Cable switch CA-1
AC adapter AC-4g
* The “dynamic range” of a digital camera is range of light intensity that the camera is able to process.
* The term “MP file” used in this document refers to “Extended MP files” conforming to the “multi-picture format” standardized by the CIPA. (The file extension is MPO.) With MP file images recorded by the CX1, a selected frame can be extracted and saved as an individual JPEG image within the camera.

Dust-Aid Introduces Dust-Shield, Dust-Swabs and Dust-Jet

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Dust-Aid has 3 new products appearing at PMA which are designed to help you get or keep dust off your DSLR sensor. More details and images from Dust-Aid’s press release below.

PRESS RELEASE

Bend, Oregon- February 17, 2009- Today DUST-AID introduced several new DSLR camera sensor filter dust prevention products and cleaning products; the Dust-Shield is focused on the prevention of dust by blocking particulates from entering the mirror chamber, the Dust-Swabs with Sensor Light is an illuminated swab for shining light and cleaning a sensor filter in a dark mirror chamber, and the Dust-Jet which contains a replaceable filter to clean air blown through the bellows of the blower. These new products deliver breakthrough features that make them truly unique products.

Preventing DSLR mirror chamber dust just got easier with Dust-Shield.

[Read more…]

Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II and TS-E 17mm f/4L Tilt-Shift Lenses

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Canon has announced two new tilt-shift lenses for landscape and architectural photographers, the TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II and TS-E 17mm f/4L. The TS-E 24mm lens is priced at $2199. The TS-E 17mm lens is priced at $2499.  Check availability for each:

TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II

TS-E 17mm f/4L

Get more details in the press release below. [Read more…]

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS and SX200 IS Reviews and Resources

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Canon has finally brought the much-desired SX1 IS to the US, along with an SX200 IS.  For those not familiar with the SX1 IS, it was previously released in non-US markets and subsequently followed by many bitter US consumers asking where their powerful point and shoot camera was at.  Canon has answered those requests and by bringing the SX1 IS to American soil.

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Key Features

  • 10mp CMOS sensor
  • 20x Zoom (28-560mm equivalent)
  • Articulating LCD
  • Hotshoe (for external flash)
  • DIGIC 4
  • 1080p video
  • Price $599

The SX1 IS should be available in April.  Check availability at Amazon.com.

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Reviews

Photography Bay (Hands-On at PMA)

The zoom range, RAW capture, hotshoe and 1080p video recording all add up to make this camera an excellent choice for anyone looking to move up a notch or three from a basic point and shoot camera.  Enthusiasts will also appreciate the features of this camera and, I’m sure, will find a way to stretch it to new limits.

Neocamera

The 20X optical zoom range is rather impressive with relatively low distortion except at wide-angle and a good amount of details retention across the zoom range.

Buy-N-Shoot

Canon’s PowerShot SX1 IS is certainly on the upper end of the compact camera market both in terms of performance and therefore price. As a result however, it delivers good quality images and fantastic high definition movies – a combination likely to suit certain photographers and hobbyists to a tee.

PC Mag

We have some minor gripes with the Canon PowerShot SX1-including its high price-but it’s one of the best superzoom cameras you can buy.

Digital Camera Review

The SX1 IS produced generally good results and is a pleasant camera to use. The ability to jump into movie mode with a one button push is a handy feature for folks who shoot video.

Cnet

A top megazoom option, the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS offers a 20x zoom lens and HD video, which you can’t get in a similarly priced dSLR, and delivers more features and slightly better performance and photo quality than the cheaper SX10 IS.

DP Interface

. . . the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS is an excellent ultra-zoom camera (one of the best out there) which is very capable in both still shooting and movie recording.

DP Review

The SX1 IS is a nicely designed, easy to use camera with a very useful zoom range and an effective image stabilization system.

Cameras.co.uk

If you want all the bells and whistles, very good picture quality and plenty of zoom power then the Canon Powershot SX1 IS is hard to beat.

Canon PowerShot SX200 IS Key Features

  • 12.1 megapixels
  • 12x Zoom (28-336 mm equivalent)
  • Optical image stabilization
  • 720p video
  • 3″ LCD
  • Price $349

Check availability at Amazon.com.

Canon PowerShot SX200 IS Reviews

Buy-n-Shoot

It is a highly recommendable unit that would make a great travel companion or gift for somebody who enjoys compact photography

Imaging Resource

The Canon PowerShot SX200 is a versatile photo companion, packing a 12x zoom that gets to 336mm, an image processor that can track faces in motion, a wide selection of recording modes including Manual, HD video with an HDMI port, and more.

PC World

Canon’s PowerShot SX200 IS is a very good camera with plenty of features for everyone: novices will make good use of the easy mode, while experienced photographers will appreciate the manual features. It’s a comfortable camera to hold and it has the ability to take some good looking shots – even in dim light.

Neutral Day

Overall performance may not win blue ribbons in any given category, but the SX200 IS does most things very well, with an approachable interface, enough controls for enthusiasts to be happy with, a competent lens, and yes, it even takes great pictures.

Let’s Go Digital

The DIGIC-4 processor with its algorithms is able to keep the high ISO values free from disastrous noise ratios, and thus enables using high ISO values.

Cameras.co.uk

I am impressed by the Powershot SX200 IS. You are unlikely to achieve much better picture quality unless you are prepared to pay a lot more for your camera.

Digital Camera Review

It’s a solid, better-than-average performer in most respects, with great zoom range, wide-ranging control options to please everyone from novices to enthusiasts, a lucid interface, 720p video capture, and decent construction.

Steve’s Digicams

Image quality was pleasing both indoors about out. Our outdoor samples show the camera has the ability to capture excellent exposures that show good color balance, and are tac sharp.

PhotographyBLOG

The SX200 IS does lead the way in the megapixel wars, with a 12 megapixel sensor that produces the usual quality images that we’ve come to expect from Canon.

More details from Canon’s press release below.

PRESS RELEASE

The SX series cameras are designed for tech-savvy consumers looking for a little gusto in their camera with affordable high-power zoom performance. Packed with features sure to please, the new PowerShot SX1 IS and SX200 IS Digital Cameras offer an array of shooting options enabling the user to choose a product that is customized to fit their needs and enhance their overall shooting experience.

The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Digital Camera is a 10.0-Megapixel powerhouse incorporating a CMOS image sensor and 1080p Full HD Movie mode, both first-in-class features for a PowerShot camera, resulting in superb image quality and enhanced flexibility. Still images can be captured easily with a 20x wide-angle Optical Zoom lens (equivalent to 28-560 mm) with Optical Image Stabilization and a 2.8-inch vari-angle wide-format LCD for great on-camera viewing and editing. What’s more, this camera offers a full range of shooting and recording modes, including RAW + JPEG for ultimate creative control. While the camera is in Movie Mode, the PowerShot SX1 IS Digital Camera can easily play back video and view photos on an HDTV, via a built-in HDMI connector. With all these great features and now Full HD Movie Mode, the PowerShot SX1 IS Digital Camera is the perfect complement to a DSLR. The PowerShot SX1 IS Digital Camera is scheduled to be available in April for an estimated retail price of $599.99.

With a new sleek and sophisticated package, the Canon PowerShot SX200 IS Digital Camera offers consumers a great compact camera with DSLR-like features. The PowerShot SX200 IS Digital Camera comes loaded with a powerful 12x Optical Zoom lens and wide-angle lens (28-336 mm equivalent), and Optical Image Stabilization. This long-range seeker can get up close to subjects or capture more in the frame. Available in three colors – black, blue and red – consumers can now choose to personalize their camera according to their lifestyle. High-resolution, 12.1-Megapixels, 720p HD Movie Mode and a large 3-inch LCD screen with wide-angle viewing round out the feature set. The PowerShot SX200 IS Digital Camera is scheduled to be available at the end of March for an estimated retail price of $349.99.