Columbia University researchers have created a self-powered video camera featuring a sensor that both captures images and powers the device. Although it can only record low-resolution 30×40 pixel images at 1fps, the photodiodes on the camera’s sensor can switch between being photoconductive, and photovoltaic. In the latter mode – given enough light – the photodiodes supply enough power to a built-in supercapacitor to keep the camera operating indefinitely. Click through for more information
Category: Uncategorized
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Apple buys camera-technology company LinX
Apple has reportedly acquired camera technology company LinX Computational Imaging Ltd., for approximately $ 20 million. LinX is a small company based in Israel and specializes in very small camera modules that are suitable for implementation in smartphone cameras. According to LinX, its multi-lens camera modules are capable of a range of special effects such as the ability to refocus an image after it has been captured, measurement of the true dimensions of objects, 3D object modeling and real time background replacement for video calls. Click through for more information
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Canon adds new Selphy CP1000 to its dye-sub mini-printer line-up
Canon has announced it will introduce a new dye-sublimation thermal transfer printer to its Selphy range of compact photo printers this summer. The Selphy CP1000 will have features very similar to the current products, but will additionally offer the ability to print twin ID photos on the same sheet of paper using the new Dual ID mode. The new model features a USB socket for printing from USB Flash storage as well as from a computer. The printer will also have memory card slots that will accept CF and SD type memory cards, and mini/micro SD cards via adapters. Read more
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[UPDATED] Nikon announces new firmware for 300mm F4 VR to fix blur at certain shutter speeds
Nikon has announced a firmware update for its new AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR, to fix an issue where at certain shutter speeds on D800-series cameras, images can exhibit ‘noticeable blur’. According to Nikon, the problem can occur at around 1/125sec with the lens’s VR function enabled in either ‘Normal’ or ‘Sport’ modes. Users of affected units are encouraged to return their lenses to Nikon where the update will be applied free of charge. Click through for more details
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Fujifilm XF 16mm F1.4 moves from roadmap to retailers
Another lens from Fujifilm’s roadmap is making its way to retailers, and that’s the XF 16mm F1.4 R WR wide prime. This lens, equivalent to 24mm on APS-C, has a nine-blade aperture, flare-reducing Nano-GI coating, and a minimum focusing distance of 15cm/6 in. It’s also sealed against weather and dust and can function at temperatures as low as -10C/+14F. More details
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Pentax DSLRs gain firmware updates to accommodate new lenses
Ricoh has released new firmware for three of its DSLR cameras in preparation for the arrival of new HD lenses to the K-series. The Pentax K-3, K-S2 and K-S1 will receive updates that allow them to get the most out of the forthcoming HD Pentax-D FA 150-450mm f/4.5-5.6ED DC AW and HD Pentax-D FA*70-200mm f/2.8 ED DC AW lenses, while the K-3 and K-S1 also gain compatibility with the HD Pentax-DA 18-50mm f/4-5.6 DC WR RE standard zoom. Read more
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Garmin VIRB X and VIRB XE action cameras to launch this summer
Garmin has introduced two new action cameras, the VIRB X and the VIRB XE. Both cameras feature a new form factor that increases the number of mounting options available. Both feature a waterproof design, and the VIRB XE offers support for 1440/30p and 1080/60p video recording. In addition, the action cameras feature G-Metrix, which leverages integrated sensors and wireless tech to monitor ‘action data’ like speed, and display the information as animated data overlays. Read more
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Save The Memory Project restores over 400,000 photographs from Tsunami-hit areas of Japan
A project to salvage, clean, scan and return photographic prints found in the areas devastated by the August 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami has reunited over 90,000 images with their rightful owners since shortly after the disaster struck. The Save The Memory Project has recovered over 400,000 prints from the rubble of affected areas, having cleaned, scanned and posted digitized versions to an online system for owners to claim. Learn more
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Video Field Test: Tamron SP 15-30mm F2.8 Di VC USD
Tamron claims that its new SP 15-30mm F2.8 Di VC USD offers prime lens quality across its focal length range, paired with a fast maximum aperture and – uniquely in its class – an optical vibration compensation system. We’ve been impressed by how this wideangle zoom performs in our studio, but that’s only half the story. Our latest video field test follows DPReview technical editor Rishi Sanyal as he uses the Tamron 15-30mm to shoot architecture, cityscapes and waterfalls. Watch the video
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Pentax K-S2 added to studio scene
Historically, Pentax’s entry- and mid-range DSLRs have managed to offer a number of features usually reserved for higher-end models, and the K-S2 is no exception. Omitting the blinking lights and unconventional mode dial placement of its K-S1 sibling, the K-S2 provides a 20MP APS-C sensor, fully articulated 3″ 921k-dot LCD, 100% coverage optical viewfinder, and built-in Wi-Fi with NFC. Take a look at how it performs against other cameras in its class. Read more