photography – Page 127

Free Bogen Webinar – A Budget Safari – Wildlife Photography at Your Local Zoo

June 17, 2009 By Eric Reagan

Bogen is putting together another free webinar this Friday, June 17, 2009 from 2 p.m to 3 p.m EDT. This one is all about wildlife photography and centered around getting great shots at your local zoo. Bogen is also giving away a $195 National Geographic Walkabout Satchel to three winners at the end of the webinar.

Here’s more on the webinar from Bogen:

Listen to our special speakers, David Fisher, webinar host, and Julie Maher, Wildlife Conservation Society Staff Photographer.

During this session David & Julie discuss:

Best practices for shooting through fences, wires, and glass partitions

Selecting the best gear for a day trip

Best times to visit and developing a unique perspective

Also, learn about Julie’s recent trip to South America and a report on the ongoing Conservation photography efforts at the WCS.

Go here to register – it’s free.

ExpoImaging Supports Growing Line of Honl Products

June 16, 2009 By Eric Reagan

ExpoImaging has been distributing the HonlPhoto Speed System gear for a while now. I’m a big fan of the Honl gear and now there’s some new gear including a couple of filter kits and speed system bag that I have talked about previously. The full skinny on the latest gear is in the press release below. [Read more…]

Sony A380 Reviews and Resources

June 6, 2009 By Eric Reagan

The Sony A380 is a 14.2 megapixel DSLR, which replaced the Sony A350. Unlike the A350 though, the Sony A380 kit lens is an 18-55mm lens rather than the 18-70mm range provided by the A350’s kit lens. While the A380 carries an initial retail price of $850 with the kit lens, lower prices will likely be found shortly after the camera’s release in July 2009. [Read more…]

Olympus E-P1 Reviews and Resources

June 6, 2009 By Eric Reagan

The Olympus E-P1 is a 12.3 megapixel quasi-compact camera that offers users the ability to switch lenses. It has no mirror box between the lens and the image sensor, so it is effectively a full time live view camera. Because of the sensor size in Micro Four Thirds cameras, the Olympus E-P1 has a 2x crop factor applied to lens focal lengths. As a result, a 14mm focal length on the E-P1 is effectively equivalent to the angle of view of a 28mm lens on a 35mm or full frame camera.

Olympus E-P1 Key Features

Compact size w/ interchangeable lenses
12.3 megapixel sensor
HD video at 720p
ISO 100-6400
Sensor-based image stabilization
11-area multiple AF
3? LCD
External flash hotshoe
3 frames per second shooting speed
Olympus’ popular Art Filters
SD card compatibility

The Olympus E-P1 is the camera many enthusiasts have been waiting for.

Adorama

They have delivered a game-changing camera that may not be for everybody but if the size, shape, and ability to use so many different kinds of lenses, from Olympus and many others appeals to you, as it does to me, you’ll want an E-P1.

Pocket-lint

Detail is very good and with around two to three stops of exposure and detail headroom in the RAWs there’s plenty of extra detail to pull out of shadows and highlights if you need to.

PhotographyBLOG

It surpasses the E-620, offering a leap forward in low-light performance, so much so that the E-P1 is the first Four Thirds camera to offer comparable quality to an APS-C DSLR, despite the smaller sensor size. Olympus have certainly made real strides here.

Photocrati

After examining my 900 images and dozens of HD video clips, I can confirm that the E-P1 and M. Zuiko lenses live up to their full potential.

PhotographyPress

Well, I was won over by the image quality and that at the end of the day is probably the single most important factor and so makes this a camera one I cannot help but recommend.

Outback Photo

So far we think that the image quality is nice and likely even better than the E-620 (and we like using E-620 a lot).

Cnet

The Olympus E-P1 is an otherwise excellent enthusiast compact camera hampered by some performance problems and the lack of a viewfinder and built-in flash.

Steve’s Digicams

I was very pleased with the image quality from the E-P1’s 12.3-megapixel Live MOS imager and TruePic V imager processor.

Digicam Review

Image quality is excellent – with excellent colour, and good levels of saturation and contrast with excellent detail. Noise levels were very low and provided useable ISO1600 (and possibly higher) – with less colour noise than even the Canon 450D, and provided much better detail from the Olympus kit lens, than the Canon’s kit lens.

As for things like focussing, The E-P1 makes use of 11-point focus system which worked well under our tests, albeit a tad sluggish.

Pocket-Lint (first look review)

The Olympus E-P1 is a true hybrid, falling into the space between compact and DSLR. It is distinctly different in its offering and may, for some, be appealing as a result

Wired UK (hands-on report)

Its technical proficiency makes this a very good camera. What makes it great is its sense of style, which leaves an SLR feeling clunky by comparison.

Nikon D300s Reviews and Resources

May 31, 2009 By Eric Reagan

Nikon D300s

The Nikon D300s is a refreshed version of the Nikon D300 that offers video capabilities and other tweaks to the previous model.

Nikon D300s Key Features

12.3-megapixel sensor
51-point autofocus
720p HD video recording
7 fps continuous shooting
Dual CF and SD card slots
Quiet drive mode

The Nikon D300s was available in August 2009 at an initial retail price of $1799.95.

Nikon D300s Availability

International Availability:

Amazon UK

Amazon Germany

Amazon Japan

Photography Bay Resources

Nikon D300s Review

Nikon D300s ISO Test and Sample Images

Nikon D300s vs. Canon 7D ISO Comparison – Part 1 (NR on)

Nikon D300s vs. Canon 7D ISO Comparison – Part 2 (NR off)

Nikon D300s Reviews

DP Interface

Photocrati

PhotographyBLOG

Digital Camera Review

Camera Labs

PDN Gear Guide (hands-on)

Cnet UK

Tech Radar

DP Review (hands-on)

Nikon D300s Press Release

MELVILLE, N.Y. (July 30, 2009) – Today, Nikon announced the D300s digital SLR, combining professional-level performance with agility and enhanced D-Movie capabilities to deliver a new benchmark for creative versatility. Engineered to leverage proven Nikon technologies, including a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and 51-point autofocus system; the addition of HD video capture; and faster 7 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting, the Nikon D300s balances form factor, performance, versatility and reliability for serious photo enthusiasts and professionals.

The D300s retains the photographer-friendly features of the critically acclaimed D300, while enhancing speed, versatility, and agility of the DX-format for a wide variety of photographers, including advanced enthusiasts, wedding shooters and photojournalists. The D300s can record HD video clips and high fidelity audio with an external stereo microphone input, offering users a D-SLR with full multimedia capabilities. Dual card slots afford users the ability to seamlessly record stills and video to one CompactFlash™ (CF) and one Secure Digital™ (SD) card separately, while one-button Live View, a new Quiet Shutter Release mode and Active D-Lighting bracketing help users to capture stunning images like never before.

“Today’s photographer demands excellence and value from high-performance digital SLRs – and the Nikon D300s delivers,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. “It’s no secret that more photographers need to gather multimedia content. In addition to proven technologies, such as the 51-point autofocus (AF) system and 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, we are more than confident that the D300s’ HD movie mode, along with a host of additional performance enhancements, will broaden the appeal of the camera to those seeking exceptional still image quality and video versatility.”

The Benchmark of Speed, Performance and Reliability

Whether on the front lines of spot news or behind the scenes at a spring wedding, users of the D300s can record HD video clips at 720p resolution with a smooth cinematic 24 fps rate. In addition, the D300s also records high fidelity audio—either with the convenient built-in microphone or by using the external stereo microphone input. Photographers can trim video length on the fly and apply Picture Controls to video, modifying the tone and color. Additionally, users can autofocus while recording video, using contrast detect AF, and do so while composing on the D300s’ bright three-inch 920,000-dot LCD screen.

Nikon’s applauded AF system, with 51 high density focus points, performs even faster and more accurately on the new D300s. The Multi-CAM 3500DX AF module uses 15 cross type sensors to provide unparalleled focus performance across the frame. The D300s offers multiple focus modes, including single-point AF mode, and a dynamic-area AF mode, where users can select from nine, 21 or 51 AF points with 3D tracking. Additionally, the added Face Detection System lets users instantly zoom in on a human face in playback mode on the high-resolution LCD monitor to check critical focus.

The Nikon exclusive and newly-accelerated Scene Recognition System (SRS) further refines Nikon’s AF performance and light metering. In conjunction with the 3D Color Matrix Metering II system, the SRS uses precise color and brightness information from the 1,005-pixel RGB sensor to propel AF, auto exposure, i-TTL flash control and auto white balance to unprecedented accuracy.

The renowned 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor in the D300s delivers extraordinary image quality and low noise throughout the entire ISO sensitivity range from 200 to 3200 (Lo-1 at 100 and 6400 at Hi-1). The D300s captures image data using 14 bit A/D conversion, processed through a 16-bit pipeline for optimal performance, resulting in images with sharp details and smooth tonal gradations.

The D300s also incorporates Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED™ image processing. EXPEED image processing uses an accumulation of sophisticated Nikon intelligence and technologies to ensure impeccable quality for both still images and movies, while also achieving high-speed processing and low power consumption. When using the included EN-EL3e Li-Ion rechargeable battery, photographers can achieve as many as 950 shots under normal shooting conditions. The optional Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10 extends shooting comfort and supports three types of batteries: R6/AA-size batteries, along with Nikon’s Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e and the EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery. It combines added stability with extended shooting of up to 2,950 shots*1 per charge and enables faster high-speed continuous shooting at up to 8 fps*2.

The reinforced magnesium alloy body is lightweight, ruggedly constructed and comprehensively sealed and gasketed against the elements at key points, and the shutter has been proven to a demanding 150,000 cycles. Additionally, the D300s employs the Integrated Dust Reduction System countermeasures that combat the accumulation of image-degrading particles on the optical low-pass filter.

World Class Versatility

With the D300s, Nikon introduces the ability to bracket Active D-Lighting (ADL). By localizing tone control, ADL restores shadow and highlight detail typically lost in high contrast situations, such as backlit subjects or while outdoors with strong sunlight. ADL bracketing provides users with the ability to bracket up to five frames of ADL strength to help ensure perfect contrast throughout the frame, putting an end to the guesswork behind the shot with a bride’s intricate white dress and a groom’s tuxedo in the same frame, for example.

Additionally, the D300s features two memory card slots—one CF and one SD, used simultaneously in a variety of configurations to match users’ preferences. Among the many options available, stills and video can record to separate cards or slots can be assigned for JPEG and RAW recording. The D300s offers “overflow” or “backup” modes, and when shooting D-Movie clips, it allows you to select the slot containing the card with the most available capacity. Users can also copy and paste files between cards.

Also added to the D300s is a Quiet Shutter Release mode, which substantially reduces the sound of the mirror while shooting. Quickly accessed by selecting “Q” on the release mode dial, this feature is ideal for the photographer who wishes to remain unobtrusive.

To further expand versatility, users have the ability to fine tune their images using Nikon’s Picture Controls to adjust sharpening, brightness, contrast and color hue. The D300s offers users four presets including Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome; while Landscape and Portrait settings can be downloaded from the Nikon website. While the D300s offers a versatile built-in flash with wider coverage for a 16mm lens, the camera is also compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System and is capable of controlling up to two groups of remote units as a master / commander for Advanced Wireless Lighting.

System Expandability

In addition to compatibility with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses and a broad array of system accessories, the D300s will also perform well with the recently announced AF-S NIKKOR 70-200 f/2.8G ED VR II and the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200 f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II lenses.

Price and Availability

The Nikon D300s camera body will be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in late August 2009 at an estimated selling price of $1799.95.

Sony A550 Reviews and Resources

May 25, 2009 By Eric Reagan

Sony A550

The Sony A550 is a 14.2-megapixel DSLR, which offers live view functionality and a new Auto HDR mode. The A550 was released simultaneously with the Sony A500. These new cameras sit in Sony’s DSLR lineup between the A380 (as the top-end consumer model) and the A700 as a mid-range prosumer model.

The Sony A550 should be available in October 2009 at an initial retail price of $950. Check availability on Amazon.com.

Read Photography Bay’s Sony A550 Review.

Sony A550 Reviews

Adorama Learning Center

Digital Camera Info

Photoclub Alpha

Photocrati

Imaging Resource (hands-on review)

Sony A550 Press Release

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 27, 2009 – Sony today introduced two ? (alpha) DSLR cameras with a new generation of Exmor™ CMOS sensors and BIONZ™ image processors, which make it easy for active shooters to get the best shot and capture clearer images—without missing their favorite moments.

The ?550 (14.2 megapixels) and ?500 (12.3 megapixels) cameras provide excellent picture quality, particularly in low-light scenarios. A new generation of Sony® Exmor CMOS image sensors employ new low-noise processing for high-quality pictures. The BIONZ image processor has color-noise reduction that helps achieve low noise up to ISO 12800, without sacrificing fine detail.

“We are bringing performance of a higher class of cameras within the reach of a broader group of consumers,” said Mark Weir, senior manager of the Digital Imaging business at Sony Electronics. “Not only do these cameras provide great value, but they also bring faster shooting speeds and new technologies like in-camera High Dynamic Range and new Live View features to mainstream photo enthusiasts.”

Fast Shooting Speeds

With its unique sensor-processor combination, the ?550 camera is the first DSLR in its class with seven frames per second shooting speed for under $1,000. Using the optical viewfinder on both models, you can shoot up to five frames per second and up to four frames per second with Quick Auto Focus Live View. This helps you capture the decisive moment when shooting fast moving subjects like in sports.

In-Camera High Dynamic Range

These are Sony’s first DSLR cameras that offer an in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) feature for capturing highlights and shadows, which processes the image within two seconds. Unlike HDR features in other DSLR cameras, Sony’s unique positional interpolation technology can overcome slight changes in camera position and align individual shots so that a tripod is not required.

The feature handles severe backlighting and other high-contrast scenes like looking out a window into bright daylight. The in-camera auto HDR technology combines the highlight and shadow detail of two separate captures into one remarkably natural looking image.

Improved Live View

Because composing shots on the LCD monitor is becoming increasingly important to DSLR users, Sony has equipped these cameras with two Live View functions and a 3-inch (measured diagonally) LCD screen that tilts 90 degrees up or down. The ?500 has a 230,000 pixel Clear Photo LCD Plus™ screen, and the ?550 has a 921,000 pixel Xtra Fine LCD™ display.

Sony’s Quick AF Live View uses two sensors to maintain the same focusing speed as with the optical viewfinder. While the speed of Quick AF Live View is ideal for every day shooting, Manual Focus Check Live View enables critical framing and magnification for setting precise manual focus in macro and tripod shooting. Temporary 7x and 14x zoom views enable you to focus on extremely fine detail while the 1x view shows 100 percent framing in the LCD.

The Quick Auto Focus Live View has been developed with Face Detection technology to help you get the best shot by recognizing and adjusting for faces. It is the world’s first Face Detection system to work with fast, high-precision “phase detection” Auto Focus. By tracking up to eight faces, this system can prioritize auto focus points on a face, and optimize exposure and white balance for beautiful portraits.

These are Sony’s first DSLR cameras that include Smile ShutterTM technology in Live View, which takes the shot when your subject smiles. It works with Quick Auto Focus Live View to capture spontaneous moments.

Image stabilization helps take blur-free shots by compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image stabilization into selected lenses only. SteadyShot INSIDE™ image stabilization is built into the camera body itself. Blur will also be reduced with every A-mount lens, including macro and wide aperture standard zoom lenses, with an effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops

To make the benefits of macro photography easier and more accessible, Sony is making available at retail the DT 30mm F/2.8 (model SAL30M28) macro lens. It captures intricate close-ups, which is difficult to achieve with standard lenses and is only compatible with APS-C format DSLRs.

Memory Cards

For higher capacity storage with greater connectivity and faster transfer speeds, the new DSLRs are compatible with Sony’s newest 32GB Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™ HX media. The HX series card is designed to deliver optimal read and write speeds for a growing number of products that require high-bandwidth memory in order to capture and store large data files.

Using the HX series media, Sony ? (alpha) DSLR users can confidently enjoy advanced features such as continuous-shooting photography and realize higher transfer rates of large capacity files to their compatible PC (via supplied USB adapter). For example with the ?550 model, approximately 1500 14-megapixel photos shot in the JPEG+RAW mode can be transferred to a compatible PC in approximately 26 minutes (HX series media sold separately).

The new cameras include dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™, HX series and SD/SDHC media (all sold separately).

Pricing and Availability

The ?550 (model DSLR-A550) and ?500 (model DSLR-A500), which come with the camera body only, will cost about $950 and $750 respectively. The ?550L and ?500L, which come with the camera body and 18-55 kit lens, will cost about $1050 and $850, respectively. The SAL30M28 macro lens will be available for about $200.

Pentax K-7 Reviews and Resources

May 15, 2009 By Eric Reagan

The Pentax K-7 is a 14.6 megapixel DSLR, which features HD video capturing capabilities and a unique HDR mode, which produces one composite image from a series of 3 bracketed exposures.

The K-7 is a crop-sensor camera, which means it produces an angle of view of 1.5x the focal length of lenses as compared to a 35mm or full frame camera. For example, a 300mm lens has the appearance of a 450mm lens as a result of the “crop factor”.

Pentax K-7 Availability

Amazon.com

Adorama

B&H Photo

Pentax K-7 Key Features

14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor
Sensor-based Shake Reduction
Magnesium alloy body
77-segment metering system
5.2 frames per second
HD Movie capture at 720p
Dedicated AF-assist lamp
Electronic Level function
HDR image capture mode

Pentax K-7 Resources

Firmware Updates

Pentax K-7 Reviews

OK Pentax (hands-on review)

Demystifying Digital (hands-on review)

Kodak’s Final Notice

May 9, 2009 By Eric Reagan

Kodak is dishing out final notices (I just got mine) on their online gallery storage. Not that it really matters to me. I use SmugMug and Flickr for sharing my images online. I have occasionally ordered a few snapshots or Christmas cards from Kodak; however, I will just upload the pics that I need at the time and get my pics or cards printed out. Perhaps some folks use Kodak’s service as their online storage solution. If you do, then you’ll have to keep ordering products in order to keep your photos online. [Read more…]

Sony A330 Reviews and Resources

May 3, 2009 By Eric Reagan

The Sony A330 is an entry-level DSLR, which features 10.2 megapixels and an articulating LCD screen. The Sony A330 replaces the Sony A300, which was virtually identical in specifications to the A330. As a result, the A330 is more of a refreshed version of the A300 rather than an all new model. Unlike the A300 though, the Sony A330 kit lens is an 18-55mm lens rather than the 18-70mm range provided by the A300’s kit lens.

Sony A330 Key Features

10.2 megapixel CCD sensor (1.5x crop)
2.7? articulating LCD
SteadyShot sensor-based image stabilization
9-point AF (center cross-type)
Fast Live View AF
ISO 100-3200 sensitivity
2.5 fps shooting speed
HDMI output
Dual slot SD Card and Memory Stick compatibility