Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Pentax “Knows” About Nikon’s D3

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As you probably know by now, there’s been a rumor explosion over the past few days on the Nikon D3. Unfortunately, the rumors being reported as “hot” have been around for a couple of weeks and up to a month or so in some cases. Just check Google News for nikon d3 to see a sample, let alone the blog searches.

The one new nugget of info in all of this comes from PentaxLife. A poster in the forums section, Benjamin Kanarek, had this to say:

It seems that the “Rumors” about an 18.7 mega pixel Nikon with a 1.1 sensor seem to be known to the people at Pentax. When I brought up the new Nikon they weren’t at all surprised and said “Yes, a 1.1 sensor of 18.7 mega pixels…”

Take it for what ever that is worth. The implications could be interesting.

Ben

That’s the only thing that’s truly new in all that I’ve seen on the blog and news wires over the past several days. As always, I’ll keep you posted when something new hits the fan.

[tags]nikon, d3, d3x, d3h, rumor, news, digital camera[/tags]

 

Nikon D3x Concept Rendition

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UPDATE: The Nikon D3x is now a real camera. You can read about it on Photography Bay’s Nikon D3x Reviews and Resources.

You can order the Nikon D3x at the following online stores:

Amazon

Adorama

Calumet

Ritz Camera

Wolf Camera

Camera World

Over the past several months we’ve really seen the Nikon D3 rumors heating up. While we know that they go back to 2003 or so, PMA really stirred the pot this year with the now infamous Jim Seaholm rumor.

I’m not reporting any further rumors today. In fact, it’s been rather quiet on the rumor mill this week. Hmm….does that mean something? ;)

I just wanted to pass along some impressive renditions of Norm Olsen’s Nikon D3x Concept. Norm originally posted these shots in the forums over at DPReview.com. Someone actually suggested to Norm that these we’ll end up as the next “leaked” evidence for the D3. I contacted Norm to see if he would allow me to feature these concept renditions here. I thought it would be cool to feature these renditions here for a couple of reasons.

First, as much as I love a good rumor or two, if I can track down something bogus and keep it from propagating more rumors, then all the better. Second, and perhaps more importantly, I think Norm’s work here is really cool. He has obviously spent a lot of time making this look great. Norm’s disclaimer:

I am a digital graphic artist coming from a decade-long run in the electronic gaming industry. I never worked for Nikon, nor am I some top secret tester having possession of any D3 prototypes.

____________________________________________

I really dig this LCD screen. I think it’s got a lot of great potential. I’m really big on getting info quick and clear. I think Norm’s onto something here.

Here, we get a glimpse into the amount of detail and effort that went into this impressive rendition.

Norm welcomes any feedback. Feel free to comment here or join the forum discussion over at DPReview.com.

Finally, do Norm and the rest of us a favor. If you see these shots accompanying some rumor mill on the Nikon D3, let us know. In the mean time, dream on.

UPDATE 6/8/07: Just when I thought things were quiet this week, Norm’s renderings found there way into the rumor mill. Also, you can find them on Cnet (with the disclosure that they really are fictitious renderings).

[tags]nikon, d3, d3x, artist, rendition, concept, rumors[/tags]

Underwater Photography Rocks, Olympus Rolls

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PRESS RELEASE:

Olympus Embraces Underwater, Dive Community With New Camera Housings               
Recreational Scuba Divers, Outdoor Enthusiasts and Poolside Families Enjoy Underwater Photography Thanks to Olympus

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., June 4, 2007 – Olympus gears-up for summer with new underwater housings and accessories for its digital cameras — from point-and-shoot to D-SLR (digital single lens reflex). For millions, the peak travel season of June through August means fun in the ocean, lake or pool. Weekend sun worshipers to serious divers can easily capture their adventures beneath the surface (down to depths of 40 meters / approximately 133 feet) using the new Olympus housings.

New Olympus Underwater Housings and Accessories Include: D-SLR – The new PT-E03 housing is made specifically for Olympus’ newly available, portable EVOLT E-410 D-SLR camera. Scuba divers agree that the E-410’s full-time Live View LCD makes taking photographs underwater more natural, enabling them to hold the camera away from their face and allowing them to see their vast surroundings. Most other D-SLRs only offer a traditional optical viewfinder — peering through this when wearing a dive mask is extremely cumbersome and offers very limited views. The E-410’s housing is compatible with many of the Olympus Zuiko Digital-Specific lenses and their respective underwater lens ports.

D-SLR Lenses – Wide angle and macro lenses are the most common for underwater photography. The new PPO-E05 underwater lens port is designed for the lightweight 14-42mm Zuiko Digital-Specific lens, which is the perfect complement to the portable E-410 and its underwater housing when diving. The versatile 14-42mm lens offers the most common focal lengths, including wide angle and close focusing, making it an essential tool for those recreational divers who want to capture images of their explorations. Additionally, all other Olympus PPO Series underwater lens ports (including macro) are compatible with Olympus’ E-Series underwater housings.

Digital Compact Cameras – New underwater housings have been created specifically for Olympus’ recently announced point-and-shoot cameras, including the SP-550 UZ, Stylus 770 SW, Stylus 760 and FE-230. These cameras also offer underwater scene modes, which when coupled with the underwater housings enable even the most novice photographer to take beautiful underwater images.

Underwater Flash – For the first time, Olympus is offering an underwater flash (UFL-1) for use with all new SP and Stylus camera housings introduced in 2007 as well as a majority of its preexisting digital compact camera housings. The new slave flash requires no cables and enables divers to capture stunning images even in the darkest waters.

Other Underwater Accessories – The adjustable float strap, created specifically for the Stylus SW Series, enables the camera to float at the water’s surface and provides surfers, kayakers and other active swimmers with the ability to strap the camera to their arm, freeing their hands when not taking photos. The float strap boasts a vibrant red color for high visibility.

New silicone skins are also available for the Stylus 770 SW. While the camera can reach depths of 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) without a skin or housing, the silicone skin provides a variety of stylish looks, offers improved handling in the water and is perfect for avoiding scratches on the camera’s body from rocks or other rough surfaces. The new skins are available in three trendy colors: orange, blue and clear.

The new Olympus underwater housings and accessories will be available at retailers in June 2007. The new housings — both compact and D-SLRs — are for use in depths down to 40 meters (approximately 133 feet). Comprehensive information on the complete family of Olympus’ underwater housings and accessories is available at www.olympusamerica.com/underwater.

[tags]olympus, digital camera, underwater, housing, dslr, stylus, evolt, news[/tags]

Nikon Coolpix 360

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___________________________________

What is it?

It’s a concept of a point and shoot camera from Nikon. Seems like they’ve got all the cool toys here lately (see last few posts).

A panoramic view is ‘an unbroken view of an entire surrounding area’. Often, this means one has to turn around 360 degrees, to receive this unbroken view. As we translate this to an image captured in print, the concept of Nikon 360 is the solution. Based on an ergonomic cylindrical form lens, the 360 is a camera that allows you take an all-round picture. An angle indicator provides a gauge on the direction of the rotating head and is also an additional detail to provide the camera with a stronger and steadier feel while in operation. A built-in inclinometer indicates the horizontality of position prior to execution. The 360 is designed with much emphasis on the user interface, with the main operating function designed as a touch sensor, thereby maintaining a flushed surface on the exterior. 360 is an innovation that captures all that meets the eye, and more. (via Yanko Design)

[tags]nikon, coolpix, 360, panoramic, panorama, design, concept, digital camera, point and shoot[/tags]

Canon Digital Rebel Reviews

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The Canon EOS Digital Rebel (also known as the 300D) is a 6.3-megapixel entry-level digital SLR camera, initially announced on August 20, 2003 at a price point of $899 without lens, $999 with the “kit” lens. It uses Compact Flash storage. The Digital Rebel polycarbonate bodies were originally available in silver color only, whereas the Japanese version was also available in black. Later, black versions of the Digital Rebel were also released in the US and Europe.

The Digital Rebel is often regarded as the little brother of the Canon EOS 10D, which features virtually the same CMOS image sensor and image processing chip. Interestingly, the two cameras also seem to share much of the same in-camera firmware which was demonstrated by hacking back some of the features the Digital Rebel missed compared to the 10D.

The Digital Rebel was the first camera to use the Canon EF-S lens mount. Along with the Digital Rebel, the EF-S 18-55/3.5-5.6 was introduced as the kit lens, available in a USM version in Japan or as a non-USM version elsewhere.


Reviews

Steve’s Digicams

The Digital Rebel’s autofocus system is excellent, especially when using Canon USM lenses with the ultrasonic focusing motors. We were quite impressed with the new EF-S lens even though it is a relatively inexpensive optic.

Digital Camera Resource Page

You won’t find better photo quality in a $900 camera than on the Digital Rebel. It captures incredible amounts of detail — down to blades of grass and individual leaves on a tree. Images are smooth, with nonexistent noise. Color and exposure were both accurate, and purple fringing was kept to a minimum, at least on the lenses I used.

Imaging Resource

The EOS 10D was an immensely popular camera, capitalizing on the EOS name with an excellent feature set and sterling performance. The EOS 300D seeks to surpass its predecessor’s popularity, offering very similar functionality at a much lower price point.

The Digital Picture

You get the same incredible DiGiC processor handling the same incredible 6.3 megapixel image sensor. All other things being equal, the Canon EOS 300D Digital Rebel should yield the SAME great pictures as the Canon EOS 10D. Keep in mind that some of the default parameters such as sharpness are turned up higher on the 300D.

PC Magazine

The Digital Rebel offers buyers an entrance into the world of digital SLR photography for slightly more than the cost of a high-end point-and-shoot camera. Hard-core hobbyists may find the EOS-10D‘s higher shooting speed, heftier feel, and advanced controls more to their liking. But the Digital Rebel’s excellent image quality, light weight, and budget price tag are appealing, and we expect that dealers will have a hard time keeping Digital Rebels in stock this holiday season.

Photo.net

The Canon Digital Rebel is an excellent camera at a remarkably low price given the cost of other Digital SLRs. No doubt prices will drop further and cameras will improve over the next few years, but right now the Digital Rebel sets a price/performance standard that’s hard to beat. It’s clearly better and more versatile than similarly priced non SLR digicams in the same price range, though it may be slightly larger and you do have to buy lenses for it.

Where to Buy

First off, consider going to your local camera store (and I don’t necessarily mean Wolf Camera at the mall). By going to your local camera store, you’re supporting your community and you just might build a lasting relationship with people you can rely on when you need some help or answers. If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. Due to the fact that the Canon Digital Rebel is no longer in production, it may tough to find one, especially at places like B&H and Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices. Additionally, purchasing your camera through these links helps support this site.

[tags]canon, eos, digital, rebel, dslr, review[/tags]

Rumor Alert – Nikon AF-S 100-500mm f/4-5.6 ED-IF VR III

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Is this for real?

(source) _____________________________

There are a couple more pictures here.

It showed up in a Thai-based Nikon forum yesterday. Anyone care to translate the forum postings and tell me what it says?

The specs read as follows:

  • VR III system offers the equivalent of using a shutter speed 5.5 stops faster (when used with compatible camera bodies incorporated with Nikon’s O.B. VR technology), or 4 stops faster when used with conventional camera bodies
  • Two VR Modes: Normal mode or Active Mode for when taking pictures with extreme movement
  • Automatically detects when photographer is panning and compensates
  • 5 Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements minimizes chromatic aberration and provides higher resolution and superior contrast
  • Lightweight Magnesium die-cast construction (approx. 5.2lbs) with tripod mounting foot
  • Internal Focusing (IF) design for smoother focusing and great body balance
  • Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor enables ultra-high speed autofocusing with exceptional accuracy and super-quiet operation
  • High-performance Nikon Super Integrated Coating offers superior color reproduction and minimizes ghost and flare
  • Rounded diaphragm (9 blades) for natural blur
  • New tripod mounting foot design, compatible with Arca style quick-release system
  • Compatible with Nikon TC-14E, TC-17E II, and TC-20E II Teleconverters, AF operation only with TC14E II

Seems a little too good to be true and some of the grammar seems a little too broken for such an official looking Nikon ad/press sheet. It certainly got me excited though. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see. The rumors sure do seem to be picking up here lately. The Nikon 50 f/1.2 has been getting some buzz of late too.

[tags]nikon, 100-500, af-s, ed-if, VRIII, VR-III, 50, f/1.2, 1.2, rumors, news, lens, lenses[/tags]

Sony Alpha Update

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Amateur Photographer has the latest on the coming additions to the Sony Alpha line. Apparently, Sony UK released some new publicity shots of the two new Alpha models yesterday. Nothing really new on the details of the cameras other than their release must be getting closer if Sony is now putting out “publicity shots” of the bodies. Get the full story over at Amateur Photographer.

[tags]sony, alpha, dslr, rumors, news, publicity shots[/tags]

Latest Nikon D3 Buzz

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Thom Hogan’s comments in the DPReview forums regarding the Nikon D3 (found via this blog):

Expect a late June announcement with ship in August/September instead and you might be less disappointed ;~).

Additional rumors, purportedly originating in France suggest 18.7MP and the highly-speculated 1.1x crop factor sensor. As stated in the DPReview.com forums (including spelling/grammatical errors):

In France the magazine “Reponses Photo” declares in the new june issue of their popular magazine th New D3…

They inform us that it will be a 18,7 Mpix with a 1.1 frame ( near full frame) and it allows to maintain the Nikon F mount. As the D2X this DSRL has 8 im/sec with a DX frame and 5 im/sec with the 1.1 frame.

DX lenses won’t suit the 1.1 frame and will be maintaint for the actual DSRL’s and the future amateur Nikon DSRL’s.

The 18,7 Mpix chip will come from Sony and will be exclusif for Nikon dor the 12 months after the launching of the camera (as it was always done in the past …)

Nikon director and spokesman in France Benoit de Dieuleveult declares that he can’t give any comments on this proposals, but he states : ” Nikon don’t want to reduce their Pro Market. On the contrary, our intention is to increase our parts in this market. We have developed very nice new pro products that will make us take back the lost parts and increase our position in the Pro market. Actuelly i can’t say more but you want be disappointed …”

Even more:

I have unconfirmed report that on June 22, 2007 Nikon have NPS meeting in Europe, they might announce some lenses and new body at that time.

[tags]nikon, d3, d3x, d3h, rumors, news, announcement, july, june[/tags]

Nikon D40x Review Roundup

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The Nikon D40x is the 10 megapixel sibling of the 6 megapixel Nikon D40.  The D40x offers a wider ISO range of 100-3200 and is available as a kit and as a body only.  The D40x was replaced by the D60, which was announced in January 2008, just prior to PMA.  The D60 offers minor updates overall; however, the most significant upgrade for the Nikon D60 is the inclusion of a kit lens that features Nikon Vibration Reduction (VR) technology.

Reviews

Photography Review

The D40x will make a great entry-level digital SLR for beginners or a compact second body for photographers who want a backup. It’s well-built, sturdy, and performs well for such an inexpensive camera. Standout features of the D40x are the image quality and high resolution, high-ISO performance, Nikon’s D-Lighting in-camera image processing, and the built-in Help system.

Photography BLOG

The Nikon D40x is essentially a 10 megapixel version of the slightly older 6 megapixel D40, and thankfully the increase in resolution hasn’t negatively affected the overall image quality. Indeed, I couldn’t see any noticeable difference in terms of noise between ISO settings on the D40x and the same settings on the D40, which means that the D40x delivers a bigger image without the usual trade-offs of unwanted image artifacts.

DPReview.com

Popular Photography

By Thom

Let’s Go Digital

Cnet

Camera Town

Camera Labs

Digital Camera Resource Page

Photo.net

Georg N. Nyman

Where to Buy

First off, consider going to your local camera store (and I don’t necessarily mean Wolf Camera at the mall). By going to your local camera store, you’re supporting your community and you just might build a lasting relationship with people you can rely on when you need some help or answers. If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices.

[tags]nikon, d40x, review, test, deal, cheap, kit[/tags]