Canon UK has launched new cash back rebates on the 40D, 450D and 1000D for new purchases between now and January 12, 2009.  This offer is available to European Union.

EOS 1000D (18-55 IS Kit only) = £30 Cashback (EUR 40)
New Offer – started 15th September, ends 12th January 2009.

EOS 450D (any configuration) = £50 Cashback (EUR 65)
Extended Offer – started 26th June, ends 12th January 2009.

EOS 40D (any configuration) = £60 Cashback (EUR 75)
Extended Offer – started 21st August, ends 12th January 2009.

For additional details and the claim form, see this page.

Sorry US readers, no news on rebates yet.  Maybe we’ll see something on this side of the pond before Christmas.

Even though the cat was already out of the bag, Panasonic decided to drop a press release to tell us that their recently announced (but still unavailable) Micro Four Thirds camera – the Panasonic LUMIX G1 –  will cost $800.  They’re also pricing the 45-200mm lens at $350 (that’s a 90-400mm equivalent for 35mm sensors).

I’m sorry Panasonic, but that kit price still sounds high. Consider what else you can buy for $800 or less. [Read more…]

Hasselblad has introduced three new products – the 50 megapixel H3DII-50, a new 35-90mm zoom lens and the HTS 1.5 Tilt/Shift adapter.  The new H3DII-50 features Kodak’s 50 Mpixel 36×48mm sensor, which measures, twice the physical size of the largest 35mm DSLR sensors.

Hasselblad H3DII-50 Key Features

• Integrated 50 Mpix capture units with 3″ display
• Ultra-Focus: integral optimization of digital lens performance
• Hasselblad Natural Color Solution
• Integrated CCD cooling sink for lower noise
• Direct ISO/WB control
• Thumbwheel control of digital menus
• GPS accessory option
• Full Digital APO Correction for improved image sharpness and detail

The H3DII-50 is priced at £14,750 (excluding lens).  The 60 megapixel H3DII-60 will be available in April 2009 for £18,750 (excluding lens). For more details, see the press release below. [Read more…]

GERMANY – 15 September 2008 – The new LEICA M8.2 is an exciting upgrade of Leica Camera AG’s German-made M series digital rangefinder camera for professionals. Improving on important LEICA M8 attributes such as discretion, intuitive work and robustness , the new model retains the key characteristics of the Leica reportage camera such as the compact shape, the exceptional image quality in connection with Leica M lenses and the unique picture composition with the Leica rangefinder that show it to be a genuine M camera. The LEICA M8.2 complements the M8, and many elements of the M8.2 can be integrated into the M8 if desired. With this parallel marketing, Leica Camera AG is underlining yet again the full system compatibility and high value retention of its M series. [Read more…]

GERMANY – 15 September 2008 – The LEICA D-LUX 4, introduced by Leica Camera AG, Solms, is a compact digital camera with powerful optics and a comprehensive range of settings. Premiering with the camera is the wide range of accessories for additionally widening its photographic potential, offering the sophisticated user even more possibilities for creative photography. With its 1/1.63″ CCD image sensor, unusually large for this class of camera, the LEICA D-LUX 4 produces images of superior quality. [Read more…]

Steve’s Digicams has published a review of the new Canon EOS 1000D (aka Digital Rebel XS). The EOS 1000D takes over for the EOS 400D (aka Rebel XTi) at the bottom rung of Canon’s DSLR lineup. It features a 10.1 megapixel sensor.

Canon has put together yet another awesome Digital SLR for the beginner to intermediate user. The combination of easy of use and versatility make this a very appealing model in the “entry-level” category.

For the latest news, reviews and more, stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS Reviews and Resources.

Officially, Newsweek’s Visions of China photo blog focuses on the athletes and events of the Beijing Olympics. But there are a few hidden gems that show off all the hard work that goes into the photos making it into Newsweek and other publications.

Two posts have particularly stood out so far: “Preparing for the Biggest Organized Event of Them All” and “More Than a Ten Hour Wait for an Event That Lasts Less Than 10 Seconds.”

Ever wondered what equipment a Newsweek photographer takes to the Olympics? In the first post, Vincent Laforet describes his equipment and how he packs it. What about the set up for photographing an event like the men’s 100 meter race and the problems photographers are running into in Beijing? Laforet covers all that in the second. These two posts provide a lot of insight into all the work that goes into photographing the Olympics, and there are plenty of great photos throughout the rest of the blog.

The deadline for PDN and Billboard’s music photography contest is getting close: submissions are due by August 29. They’ve actually split the Summer Music Moment contest into two separate competitions. You can enter either as an amateur or a professional, through the contest’s website.

There’s a wide variety of prizes, including cash, cameras and computers. Just a head’s up, though: you must have written releases from anyone appearing in your photographs before you enter your work. You may have an absolutely awesome shot of some famous singer rocking out, but if you can’t get a written release, you’re out of luck.

You can see recent entries here, and some of them really do rock.