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Getty Images launches ‘Virtual Reality Group’, adds 12,000 360° images

10 Jun

Getty Images has announced the launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group – a new business division ‘dedicated to the creation and global distribution’ of VR content. At launch, the new group offers a library of more than 12,000 360-degree VR images, as well as ultra high-resolution ‘Gigapixel’ imagery from major events. 

Getty Images has announced the creation of a dedicated Virtual Reality Group, which will offer more than 12,000 360-degree and ‘Gigapixel’ images at launch.

According to Dawn Airey, CEO of Getty Images: ‘The technology is still in its infancy – as are the business models addressing how to use it – but […] we are only on the cusp of what will be a tectonic plate shift in VR’.

Although Getty Images started adding VR and Gigapixel imagery to its collection several years ago, the launch of a dedicated business division is the latest sign that the photography industry is taking VR very seriously indeed. What do you think? Let us know. 

Press Release:

The launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group brings high quality VR and 360 content to everyone, satisfying the growing appetite for immersive content

Getty Images, the world leader in visual communication, has today announced the launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group, a new business dedicated to the creation and global distribution of virtual reality (VR) content.

The Getty Images Virtual Reality Group brings the very latest in photographic and video technology together with Getty Images’ 21 years of experience in visual storytelling, to offer exceptional content for existing and future VR platforms. The Group provides a comprehensive offering of over 12,000 premium 360 images with new content added daily, as well as high res gigapixel content from key events and venues. High quality VR production is also being offered through Getty Images Assignments.

Quick to adapt to new image technologies, Getty images began building its collection of 360 and gigapixel imagery four years ago, pioneering the use of these techniques in its role as the Official Photographic Agency for the International Olympic Committee at the 2012 London Olympics. Fast track to today, and every Getty Images photographer at the upcoming Rio Olympic Games, will be equipped with a 360 camera. This is just one example of how Getty Images is utilizing its expertise, its access to over 130,000 annual news, sport and entertainment events and its unique relationships to generate high-end VR content, and feed the growing demand for a more immersive visual experience.

“The technology is still in its infancy – as are the business models addressing how to use it – but we can expect to see VR become a leading tool for visual storytelling. It is anticipated that over 14 million consoles will sell this year alone (TrendForce), and we are only on the cusp of what will be a tectonic plate shift in VR” said Dawn Airey, Chief Executive Officer of Getty Images.

Airey continues: “With the launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group, we are embedding VR content technologies into the core of our business and ensuring that, as use of VR continues to grow, its users are further enhancing their experience with access to the world’s best imagery.”

“The diverse range of 360 degree content that we produce – from the red carpet to the stadiums of the world’s biggest sporting events and the frontline of conflict – allows people to access information and experiences that were previously off limits,” said Hugh Pinney, Vice President of Editorial Content at Getty Images. “Virtual Reality is completely transforming the way we view and experience world events.”

The Group will continue to build on Getty Images existing VR content offering, which includes 360 content captured by its award-winning news, sport and entertainment photographers as well as geo-located, interactive panoramic images from its content partner 360cities.net.

Last month, Getty Images and Google announced their latest partnership, which sees Getty Images supplying hi-res VR content from current events around the world for Google Expeditions. Getty Images partnered with Oculus Rift in June 2015 to make its 360 imagery available for users of the Oculus platform via its 360° View by Getty Images collection.

For more information, visit http://wherewestand.gettyimages.com/virtualrealitygroup.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Firmware update adds watermarking and improves user interface of DxO ONE

08 Jun

DxO has released a firmware update for its ONE connected camera. The main additions in firmware version 1.4 are support for copyright/author metadata as well as watermarking. Users can now preview aperture and exposure compensation settings in real-time on the ‘viewfinder,’ better known as an iPhone or iPad. DxO has also tweaked the user interface, with quicker access to camera and app settings. And, as with most firmware updates, overall camera performance has been improved.

Version 1.4 of the DxO ONE app for iOS is now available in the iTunes Store. The camera firmware is updated via the app.

Press Release:

DxO ONE continues to redefine mobile photography with v1.4 update

A new streamlined user interface helps protect your photos with integrated copyright and watermarking support

PARIS—June 8th, 2016—DxO announced today the immediate availability of another major update to the multi-award-winning DxO ONE Miniaturized Pro Quality Camera™ for iPhone® and iPad®. Continuing with the promise to make the DxO ONE even better after you’ve bought it, version 1.4 adds integrated copyright/author and watermarking support to help protect your photos from unauthorized use. In addition to important performance enhancements, the update also features a dramatically improved user experience that puts all of your capture and application settings in their own, quick-access menus.

“Like my DSLR and tripod, the DxO ONE has become an important part of my workflow, allowing me to instantly share high quality, high res photos with my clients and followers”, said noted motorsports photographer, John Thawley. “By adding integrated copyright info and watermarking support, I can be confident that my shared DxO ONE images are now protected from unauthorized use.” 

Since its initial introduction revolutionized the world of mobile photography, literally dozens and dozens of new features have been added to every DxO ONE via automatic (and free) software and firmware updates. Photographers the world over told our team they love the instant sharing capabilities of the DxO ONE, but wanted a way to better protect their work. DxO’s engineers responded by providing the ability to automatically embed copyright and author info directly into the EXIF data of every DxO ONE photo. In addition, version 1.4 introduces the option to automatically add a watermark to photos shared to Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and every other photo sharing service supported by Apple iOS.

As more and more sophisticated controls have been added to the DxO ONE iOS app, the design team in Paris determined through exhaustive usability studies, that access to these controls could be even more efficient. The resulting version 1.4 update sports a streamlined user interface that provides one-tap access to capture settings, all of which are now logically grouped in a consolidated design. In addition, application settings, such as the Message Center and online support, can now be accessed with one tap from the Gallery view. The net result is that the bright, beautiful Retina viewfinder of the iPhone is now far less cluttered, leaving more room to compose your DxO ONE images.

“DxO has a world-class design team in Paris that values direct user feedback above everything else,” said Kirk Paulsen, consulting CMO for DxO. “They continue to innovative at a breakneck pace, adding exciting new features and useful controls with each successive release. It’s remarkable how far the DxO ONE has advanced in less than a year since it was first introduced.”

Version 1.4 also introduces a host of other features based on direct user feedback, including the ability to preview in the viewfinder, in real-time, camera controls such as Aperture and EV-bias. Users can now determine when they want their DxO ONE to go into power saving mode, and all-important firmware updates that unlock new features and functionality are now more visible via top-level notifications, so you’ll never miss the opportunity to take advantage of cool new ways to control your DxO ONE.

Every DxO ONE camera includes free access to DxO Connect, very simple but extremely powerful software for Mac and PC, that can make your best DxO ONE photos look even better. DxO Connect v1.4 now leverages the new DxO OpticsPro 11 engine, which includes even more remarkable noise reduction for high ISO, low-light images. The new processing engine also makes use of face detection to automatically extend the dynamic range, add fill light, and improve contrast while optimizing illumination on faces in your photos. DxO Connect can even automatically add microcontrast to sharpen fine details in your images, but it’s smart enough to leave those details intact with photos involving faces or with those captured at a high ISO in low light. Mac users, who use OS X Photos as their primary photo editing software, may want to download the updated extension (DxO OpticsPro for Photos – DxO ONE Camera only) from the App Store, which lets you tap into the power of the new DxO OpticsPro 11 photo engine without ever leaving the Photos app.

Pricing & Availability

The DxO ONE Miniaturized Pro Quality Camera™ for iPhone® and iPad® is available for purchase at dxo.com, Amazon, Best Buy, B&H, Target and other respected retailers for only $ 499 (US).

The DxO ONE iOS v1.4 app and companion Apple Watch app are both available for free via the iTunes App Store. New firmware, also immediately available, can be downloaded to the iPhone and installed on existing DxO ONE cameras with a simple tap. The 1.4 updates to DxO Connect and ‘DxO OpticsPro for Photos – DxO ONE Camera only’, are also immediately available for existing users to download from dxo.com and the Mac App Store, respectively.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nissin adds radio receiver unit to Air system for branded flash units

15 Mar

Flash manufacturer Nissin has announced it has produced a receiver unit for its NAS wireless flash communication system that allows flash units from Canon, Nikon and Sony to be used within its radio command structure. The new Air R units are designed to convert flashguns that usually rely on line-of-sight optical control when used off camera in a group to come under the company’s 2.4GHz radio network.

Once mounted into the hotshoe of the receiver flash units from Nissin and other brands compatible with Canon, Nikon or Sony systems can be controlled by either an Air transmitter from the hotshoe of the camera, or by a Nissin flash unit that features the Air commander mode – such as the new i60A.

The receiver is equipped with eight channels and can work in one of three groups. The system allows flash exposure compensation of +/-2EV and manual output from full to 1/128th power. The company says the NAS Air system has a range of 30m and supports high speed sync at shutter speeds of up to 1/8000sec. The Nissin Air R units will cost £59.94 or £109.98 with a Nissin Commander Air 1 transmitter.

For more information see the Nissin website or the Kenro website for an English version.

Nissin Air R Specifications:

Compatibility: For Nissin, Canon and Sony flashguns
Wireless system: Radio
Radio specifications: 2.4GHz ISM band
Channel: 8 channels. Auto or manual select
Flash groups: A, B, C (3 groups)
Power source: 2 AAA batteries (not included)
Guide number: Low GN mode / High GN mode (default)
Mode (set at NAS Commander): TTL, manual and manual zoom
EV Compensation on flash: (TTL) -2.0 – +2.0 in ½ EV increments (manual)
Each group can be adjusted independently or synchronised
Manual output: 8 steps of manual output 1/128, 1/64, 1/32, 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1/1 – full power
Manual zoom: Manual adjustment 24 / 35 / 50 / 70 / 85 / 105 / 135 / 200mm
Continuous shooting speed: 10 shots per second
Number of flashes: Approx 5000
Transmission distance: Maximum 30 metres (dependent upon the environment)
High Speed Synchronisation: 1/8000 sec (controlled by NAS Commander)
External sync socket: Standard PC sync cable
Mode: TTL, N, M zoom, no setting is needed, all settings controlled from the NAS commander
Synchronisation modes: No setting is needed, controlled by NAS commander
Mounting: Built-in stand, cold shoe / 1/4” tripod bush
Dimensions: 60 (L) x 60 (W) x 50 (H) mm
Weight: 55g (excluding batteries)

Press release:

NISSIN LAUNCHES NEW RECEIVER AIR R RANGE 

Kenro Ltd, the specialist photographic and audio-visual equipment supplier, is delighted to announce the launch of a series of revolutionary new products from the Nissin Air System range.
 
Kenro is the exclusive UK distributor for Nissin, a market-leading producer of electronic flash units for photographers. Nissin has a history of developing innovative products with phenomenal quality standards, and the Nissin Receiver Air R is no exception.

The Receiver Air R is a game-changing new addition to the Nissin Air System (NAS) 2.4GHz radio transmission wireless flash system. Compared with the traditional optical wireless transmitters, 2.4GHz radio transmission is less susceptible to the usual issues caused by not having clear line of sight between transmitter and receiver, and provides coverage of up to 30 meters (98 feet). In addition, radio transmission ID technology gives each of the NAS-compatible devices a unique identity to prevent misfiring in the event of signal interference.

The Nissin Commander Air 1 was launched last year and has been very well-received by camera users all over the world – the Receiver Air R adds a new dimension of flexibility to this already popular product. Combined with the Nissin Commander Air 1, it allows a photographer to wirelessly control almost any kind of Nissin camera flash and original manufacturer’s flash in the current market with NAS and TTL & HSS support. Camera users who currently own a Canon, Sony or Nikon original flash will be able to make their existing flashes compatible with the Nissin Air System, utilising full TTL.

High Speed Sync up to 1/8000 seconds, zoom and manual power output can all be controlled wirelessly at a competitive price without giving up quality and reliability. What’s more, one Commander transmitter can control up to 21 separate Air R receivers, which can be programmed into three groups to give the camera user an almost limitless range of lighting options without having to spend precious time readjusting flashguns between shots.

Paul Kench, Managing Director, Kenro, says: “This is a great new addition to the Nissin Air System that will really open up the creative opportunities available to photographers and camera users and allow them to be much more flexible in their approach to lighting, without the need to replace all their existing kit. The Receiver Air R range expands the possibilities without breaking the bank.”

The Nissin Receiver Air R range is available now:
NFG014NR: Nissin Receiver Air R Nikon – SRP £59.94 inc. VAT
NFG014N/AP: Nissin Commander Air 1 + Receiver Air R Nikon – SRP £109.98 inc. VAT
NFG014SR: Nissin Receiver Air R Sony – SRP £59.94 inc. VAT
NFG014S/AP: Nissin Commander Air 1 + Receiver Air R Sony – SRP £109.98 inc. VAT
NFG014CR: Nissin Receiver Air R Canon – SRP £59.94 inc. VAT
NFG014C/AP: Nissin Commander Air 1 + Receiver Air R Canon – SRP £109.98 inc. VAT

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sky Slide: L.A. Tower Adds Exterior Glass Chute 1,000 Feet Up

07 Mar

[ By WebUrbanist in Architecture & Cities & Urbanism. ]

This undated artist's rendering provided by Overseas Union Enterprise Limited shows a glass slide 1,000 feet above the ground off the side of the U.S. Bank Tower in downtown Los Angeles. The 45-foot-long attraction is part of a $ 50 million renovation that will also put a bar and open-air observation deck on the top floors of the 72-story building. (Michael Ludvik/OUE Ltd. via AP)

A new amusement offering on the 70th floor of the highest skyscraper on the West Coast is stepping up the game, going beyond glass viewing platforms, swimming pools and bridges to boast a fully-transparent outdoor slide for bold adventurers, all at a lofty 1,000-foot elevation.

aerial sky slide

Owners of the U.S Bank Tower are adding this extreme sightseeing measure to thrill (or terrify) visitors who wish to simulate the experience of jumping out of a skyscraper. The 36-foot Skyslide will take guests from the 70th down to the 69th floor.

skyscraper glass slide viewing platform

The so-called Skyslide is part of a new observation deck expansion that will charge $ 25 per ticket, or another $ 8 to ride the side of the scraper via a trap door.

us bank tower

Attached by minimal metal supports, the clear glass will give stunning views of the surrounding city, at least for those brave enough to keep their eyes open on the way down. Meanwhile, on the East Coast, visitors can experience a similar thrill in slightly less overtly-dangerous environs, touring 50 years of history in 1 WTC elevator ride.

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Topaz Labs DeNoise 6 adds standalone option, batch processing, camera profiles

02 Mar

Topaz Labs has released DeNoise 6, the latest version of its noise-removal software. This latest installment can be used as a standalone application in addition to functioning as a plugin for host software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop; it also adds batch image processing as well as profile presets for dozens of camera models.

Topaz Labs announced the software update last week and is offering it to new customers at a discounted $ 49.99 rate until March 20, after which the regular $ 79.99 price tag will apply. Existing DeNoise customers can update to version 6 for free. DeNoise 6 is available for 64-bit Mac OS X and Windows systems.

Via: Topaz Labs Blog

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Panasonic adds weather-resistant Lumix G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 Power OIS to lens lineup

24 Feb

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With the start of CP+ 2016 just one day away, Panasonic is introducing the Lumix G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH Power O.I.S. to its family of Micro Four Thirds lenses. Featuring a splash and dustproof design, the lens is compatible with Panasonic’s Dual IS feature, currently available on the Lumix DMC-GX8. Its construction includes 11 elements in 9 groups, seven aperture blades and a high-speed stepping motor.

The Lumix G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH will be available in May for $ 499.99.

Press release:

New LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. Lens

New Micro Four Thirds Versatile Standard Zoom Lens

Newark, NJ (February 24, 2016) – Panasonic is introducing a new zoom interchangeable lens, the LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. (35 mm camera equivalent: 24-120 mm) for the LUMIX G line of Micro Four Thirds System cameras.  Featuring a splash/dust-proof design, the new lens offers a versatile 5x zoom range of 24-120mm (35mm camera equivalent) that covers a variety of daily shooting situations from dynamic landscapes to portraits. 

For everyone interested in a modern alternative to bulky DSLR interchangeable lenses, Panasonic LUMIX Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds lenses deliver impressive, no-compromise optical performance. The durable, all-weather LUMIX 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 Lens features the highest standards of detail and sharpness. Built for travel and great photo and video capture, it comes complete with a splash and dustproof sealed body.** And with Dual I.S. (Image Stabilization) compatibility, you’ll shoot with unprecedented hand-held stability anywhere you go. 

**When mounted on a compatible LUMIX G Mirrorless camera

Incorporating an inner focus drive system and a stepping motor, the new LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. is capable of smooth, silent operation to work with the camera’s high-speed, high-precision contrast AF system for both photo and video recording. It is also compatible with the sensor drive at max. 240 fps to take maximum advantage of cameras with high-speed AF. This stunning AF performance is able to record 4K video, where precise focusing is required.

Seven blades give the aperture a rounded shape that produces an attractively smooth effect in out-of-focus areas when shooting at larger aperture settings. A highly reliable metal mount assures durability for active use, and uses multi-coated lens elements that minimize ghosts and flare to further enhance its shooting performance. 

It also features 0.54x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification capability for impressive macro close-up shots.  Comprised of 11 elements in 9 groups, the lens system features three aspherical lenses and an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens which effectively suppresses spherical distortion or chromatic aberration to achieve stunning picture quality.

The LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. will be available in May at www.shop.panasonic.com and valued channel partners in metallic black for $ 499.99.

Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH Power OIS specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size FourThirds
Focal length 12–60 mm
Image stabilisation Yes
Lens mount Micro Four Thirds
Aperture
Maximum aperture F3.5 – F5.6
Minimum aperture F22.0
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 7
Aperture notes Circular aperture
Optics
Elements 11
Groups 9
Special elements / coatings 3 aspherical + 1 ED elements
Focus
Minimum focus 0.20 m (7.87″)
Maximum magnification 0.27×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual No
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 210 g (0.46 lb)
Diameter 66 mm (2.6″)
Length 71 mm (2.8″)
Sealing Yes
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock No
Filter thread 58.0 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Ricoh adds 15-30mm F2.8 SDM WR and 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR to full-frame lens range

20 Feb

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Ricoh has expanded its full-frame lens range, announcing the HD Pentax-D FA 15-30mm F2.8 and FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 alongside the introduction of the full-frame K-1 DSLR. The 15-30mm F2.8 brings a fast, constant wide-angle zoom to the lineup offering a Supersonic Direct-drive Motor, rounded nine-blade aperture, and close focus distance of 28cm. The 28-105mm offers a DC motor and a minimum focus distance of 0.5m.

The ‘WR’ in their names means that these lenses are weather-resistant, with SP (Super Protect) coatings on the front lens element to repel water.

The 15-30mm F2.8 and 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 join two Pentax full-frame lenses announced last year, the HD Pentax D FA* 70-200mm F2.8 and FA 150-450mm F4.5-5.6.

Press releases:

Ricoh announces HD PENTAX-D FA 15-30mm f/2.8 lens for new PENTAX K-1 full-frame DSLR

Weather-sealed, ultra-wide-angle zoom lens, ideal for landscapes and nightscapes

DENVER, Colo. February 17, 2016 – Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the HD PENTAX-D FA 15-30mm f/2.8ED SDM WR lens. This new lens is designed to work seamlessly with the full-frame sensor of the new PENTAX K-1 camera, also announced today.

When mounted on the PENTAX K-1 camera body, the lens covers a focal-length range from 15mm ultra-wide-angle to 30mm wide-angle.(Note: with a PENTAX  APS-C-size digital SLR camera body, the lens covers a focal-length range from 23mm to 46mm.) Its exaggerated ultra-wide perspective and state-of-the-art optical design enable capturing high-resolution, dynamic, sweeping views of subjects, ideal for landscape photography. Treated with PENTAX-developed HD Coating, the lens produces well-defined, fine-detailed images with ample light levels even at the edges of the image field, while effectively reducing chromatic aberration and distortion to a minimum. 

Its large f/2.8 maximum aperture is also well-suited for photographing nightscapes and starry skies. The built-in SDM (Supersonic Direct-drive Motor) provides quiet, high-speed autofocus operation.

| Pricing and Availability | 

HD PENTAX-D FA 15-30mm f/2.8ED SDM WR lens will be available in April 2016 at www.ricohimaging.com and retail outlets nationwide for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $ 1,499.99.

Main Features

1. Exceptional imaging power

When mounted on the PENTAX K-1 35mm full-frame digital SLR camera body, the lens provides an ultra-wide-angle focal-length coverage from 15mm to 30mm. Its exaggerated perspective helps the photographer produce spectacular landscape photographs. With a 30mm focal length at the telephoto end, the lens is also well-suited to portrait and street photography.

2. State-of-the-art optical design

The zoom lens incorporates three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical elements and three aspherical optical elements in its 18-element, 13-group optics to deliver high-resolution images rich in contrast even at the edges of the image field, while effectively minimizing chromatic aberration, distortion and coma. 

3. Large-aperture zoom lens, with a maximum aperture of f/2.8

Since this zoom lens provides a maximum aperture of f/2.8 over its entire zoom range, it is versatile enough to be used for many different subjects and scenes, ranging from sweeping landscapes to nightscapes and starry skies. Despite its ultra-wide-angle perspective, it can capture the subject with an excellent bokeh (defocus) effect on the background. Even in macro photography from its minimum focusing distance of 28 centimeters, it can capture subjects with a well-defined sense of depth.

4. Built-in SDM (Supersonic Direct-drive Motor)

The incorporation of a new-generation SDM (Supersonic Direct-drive Motor) assures that this zoom lens provides quiet, high-speed autofocus operation, letting the photographer react swiftly to all types of subjects.

5. Weather-resistant construction

Special seals applied throughout the lens body provide this zoom lens with dependable weather-resistant construction, effectively preventing the intrusion of water into the lens interior. By pairing it with a weather-resistant PENTAX digital SLR camera body, the photographer has a durable, dependable digital imaging system that performs superbly under demanding shooting conditions — even in the rain or mist, or at locations prone to water splashes or spray.

6. HD Coating to improve image description

The lens is treated with high-grade, multi-layer HD (high-definition) coating. Compared with conventional multi-layer coatings, this PENTAX-original coating assures higher light transmittance and less reflection to deliver bright, high-contrast images free of flare and ghost images, even under demanding lighting conditions such as backlight. 

7. Other features

  • Quick-Shift Focus System for instant switching from autofocus to manual-focus operation, by holding the shutter-release button halfway down and turning the focus ring after the subject is captured in focus by the camera’s AF system.
  • Rounded diaphragm with nine blades produces a smooth, beautiful bokeh (defocus) effect, while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources.
  • SP (Super Protect) coating applied to the front surface of the lens to effectively repel water and grease.

Ricoh announces 28-105mm lens for new PENTAX K-1 full-frame DSLR

Compact, lightweight and weather-sealed lens offers popular zoom range, is ideal companion to new PENTAX K-1 full-frame DSLR

DENVER, Colo. February 17, 2016 – Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the             HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6ED DC WR lens. This new, compact and lightweight zoom lens provides the most frequently requested focal-length range for general photography, from wide angle to medium telephoto.

This versatile zoom lens is designed to cover the large full-frame sensor found in the new PENTAX  K-1 camera, incorporating state-of-the-art optics and high-performance optical elements. When mounted on the K-1 camera body, it delivers high-resolution imaging power, and is an ideal every day-use lens for the new camera.

| Pricing and Availability | 

The HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6ED DC WR lens will be available in April 2016 at www.ricohimaging.com and retail outlets nationwide for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $ 499.99.  

| About Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation |

Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation is a subsidiary of Ricoh Company Ltd., a global technology company specializing in office imaging equipment, production print solutions, document management systems and IT services.  Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Group operates in about 200 countries and regions.

The company now known as Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation, was originally founded in 1919, under the name Asahi Optical Joint Stock Co. and launched its first SLR camera in the 1950s under the PENTAX name. Today, Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation continues to produce the heritage-rich, award-winning line of PENTAX DSLR cameras, lenses and sport optics equipment as well as Ricoh’s offering of stylish and compact digital cameras, known for their wide-ranging, rich set of features.

For further information, please visit www.ricohimaging.com/pentaxff

Main Features

1. Standard zoom lens covering most frequently-used range

This standard zoom lens accommodates the image circle of a 35mm full-frame image sensor, and covers focal lengths between 28mm wide angle and 105mm medium telephoto. By incorporating the latest optics and a number of high-performance optical elements, it retains a sufficient brightness level even at edges of the image field, while effectively compensating for aberrations. It delivers high-resolution images by optimizing the imaging power of the PENTAX K-1 camera’s approximately 36.4 effective megapixels. Its compact, lightweight body and excellent cost performance make this lens a perfect companion lens to the PENTAX K-1.

2. Excellent image resolution, complementing the PENTAX K-1 full-frame digital SLR camera performance

With 15-element, 11-group optics, this zoom lens incorporates two high-precision aspherical optical elements, one ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical element and one anomalous-dispersion glass optical element to deliver bright, sharp images with minimal chromatic and spherical aberrations. The optics are designed to deliver ample resolving power for the large, high-pixel image sensor, producing well-defined, fine-detailed images.

3. HD Coating to improve image quality

This lens is treated with the high-grade, multi-layer HD (high-definition) coating. Compared with conventional multi-layer coatings, this PENTAX-original coating assures higher light transmittance and less reflection to deliver bright, high-contrast images that are free of flare and ghost images, even under demanding lighting conditions such as backlight. 

4. Quick-Shift Focus System

This PENTAX-developed system allows for flawless, delay-free switching from autofocus to manual-focus operation, after the subject is captured in focus by the camera’s AF system.

HD Pentax-D FA 15-30mm F2.8 SDM WR and FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6ED DC WR Specifications

  HD PENTAX-D FA 15-30mm F2.8 ED SDM WR HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR
Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 15–30 mm 28–105 mm
Image stabilisation No
Lens mount Pentax KAF3
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8 F3.5 – F5.6
Minimum aperture F22.0 F22.0 – F38.0
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 18 15
Groups 13 11
Special elements / coatings Three ED and aspherical elements + HD and SP coatings One ED and two aspherical elements + HD and SP coatings
Focus
Minimum focus 0.28 m (11.02″) 0.50 m (19.69″)
Maximum magnification 0.2× 0.22×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Ultrasonic Micromotor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 1040 g (2.29 lb) 440 g (0.97 lb)
Diameter 99 mm (3.9″) 73 mm (2.87″)
Length 144 mm (5.67″) 87 mm (3.43″)
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Power zoom No
Filter thread 62.0 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Hood product code PH-RBC62
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Phase One adds the IQ3 100MP back to its A-series system

09 Feb

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Danish camera manufacturer Phase One has expanded its range of A-Series offerings to include the new 100MP IQ3 digital back. The A-Series kits consist of an Alpa 12TC camera body with one of three lenses and a choice of IQ3 backs in 50-, 60-, 80- and 100-million-pixel resolutions. The A-Series is particularly interesting as the cameras have no mirror, so vibrations are kept to a minimum at the time of exposure.

Images have to be composed on the rear touchscreen using the 30 fps live view feature, though the Wi-Fi functionality of the back allows connection to Apple iPod and iPhone devices via the Capture Pilot app for remote viewing, control and capture. The IQ3 backs also offer USB 3 and HDMI ports for tethered shooting to a computer running the Capture One Pro 9 software application, or for streaming live view content to a TV or field monitor.

Each lens is calibrated with the body in the factory, so there should be no need for users to create custom color correction profiles themselves. The calibrations are stored in the IQ3 back, and users just have to select the matching menu item when changing lenses.

The IQ3 100MP back in the kits is the standard model, and can also be used with the Phase One XF DSLR camera.

The kits come with the Rodenstock ALPAR F4.0 35mm, but an ultra-wide Alpagon 23mm F5.6 and a ‘standard’ Alpagon 70mm F5.6 are also available. The A-series IQ3 100MP system is available now, and is priced at $ 56,000 with the 35mm lens. It comes with a 5-year warranty and personalized 24/7 support.

For more information visit the Phase One website.

Press release:

Phase One introduces the A-series 100MP camera system

COPENHAGEN, February 3, 2016 — Phase One today introduced the A-series IQ3 100MP medium format camera system. In collaboration with ALPA, Phase One is pleased to offer this highly-integrated and specialty calibrated, precision camera system – one created to meet the needs of the world’s most demanding fine art photographers.

The A-series IQ3 100MP joins existing Phase One A-series models (the A-series IQ3 50MP, A-series IQ3 60MP and A-series IQ3 80MP) offering both the precision integration with the ALPA platform and complete compatibility with the Phase One XF camera system.

Based on the ALPA 12TC mirrorless camera body, all specially calibrated Phase One medium format IQ3 A-series digital backs offer unprecedented quality and integration. Each model comes with the 35mm Rodenstock Alpar lens. Two optional lenses are available, including the ultra-wide 23mm, and the all-round 70mm, ALPA HR Alpagon – both offering perfect edge-to-edge sharpness and the ability to resolve full frame medium format sensors.

Exclusive to the Phase One A-series system are factory configured in-camera lens calibrations (FLC), making the need to create and apply color cast correction profiles (LCCs) optional. One can simply attach an A-series lens and start shooting.

Availability and Pricing
Shipping immediately, the A-series IQ3 100MP Camera System is available through Phase One photography partners worldwide: www.phaseone.com/partners.

The A-series IQ3 100MP Camera System comes with Phase One’s unique 5-year warranty and uptime guarantee including personalized 24/7 support and assistance.

The price of the Phase One A-series IQ3 100MP Camera System (with Rodenstock Alpar 35mm lens) is 56,000 USD.

For a demo of the Phase One A-series IQ3 100MP Camera System, please sign up here: www.phaseone.com/demo

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Samyang adds 14mm and 35mm lenses to Xeen cinema system

06 Feb
The 14mm T3.1 Samyang Xeen lens

Korean lens manufacturer Samyang has added two new wide angle lenses to its Xeen series of full-frame video lenses. The new focal lengths are 14mm and 35mm, and while the 35mm conforms to the family-standard maximum aperture of T1.5 the 14mm opens only to T3.1. The Xeen system now contains a total of five lenses as these two join the existing 24mm, 50mm and 85mm.

All the lenses are manual focus only, and feature focus and aperture gear rings in identical positions so that they can be switched quickly in and out of the same rig. Filter rings also match, and users have a choice of metric or imperial focus scales. The lenses come with interchangeable mounts, and adapters are available for Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, PL and Micro Four Thirds bodies.

The 35mm T1.5 Samyang Xeen lens

Samyang is proud of the way its lenses render out-of-focus highlights, and the new 35mm complements the existing lenses with its 11-blade diaphragm. The wider lens uses a 9-bladed iris.

The lenses should be on sale by March at a cost of £1599.

For more information visit the Samyang Xeen website. 

Press Release:

Two more XEEN Lenses announced by Samyang to complete a Perfect Five-Lens-Set

SEOUL, February 5th, 2016 –Global optics brand, Samyang Optics, has announced the release of 2 new lenses: XEEN 14mm T3.1 and 35mm T1.5. These two lenses, along with the existing 24mm T1.5, 50mm T1.5 and 85mm T1.5 lenses, create a perfect balanced five-lens-set for filming video and cinema with the outstanding image quality from resolving power for 4K+ production.

XEEN is a specialized brand in professional video-cine lens launched by Samyang Optics in 2015. The XEEN lenses are designed with Samyang Optics’ know-how and have outstanding optical performance for 4K+ with the X-Coating Technology, ensuring maximum image quality to create a cinematic look.

The 24mm x 36mm negative size allows XEEN to not only work with full frame cameras, but also with Super 35, APS-C and APS-H cameras. The lenses are available in five different mounts – PL, EF, F, E, and MFT and two different focus scales – metric and imperial units. Also, the aluminum metal housing is known for its reliability in various shooting conditions.

Most of the XEEN lenses come in a bright T1.5 aperture. The lenses deliver high quality footage with clear contrast and impressive colours, even under less-than-optimal lighting conditions. The large aperture also creates a pleasing bokeh effect for a cinematic look.

“Thanks to the rise of multi-channel networks, the demands for video creation is internationally surging and the expectation of video quality is also increasing,” stated a XEEN official. He continued, “to satisfy the international needs, we have completed the first five lenses which deliver a high-quality cinematic image.” As an answer to the future product plan, he carefully disclosed that two more XEEN lenses will be announced in the second half of the year.

Created to deliver infinite possibilities, XEEN14mm and 35mm lenses will be globally available in early March. The recommended retail price of each lens is £1599.00 inc VAT.

More detailed product information is available on the official website (http://www.xeenglobal.com) and Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/xeenglobal) or Samyang Lens Global Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/samyanglensglobal).

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica T firmware version 1.5 update adds Wi-Fi Direct feature

05 Feb

Leica has released firmware version 1.5 for the Leica T, adding Wi-Fi Direct functionality for transferring images wirelessly. After updating, Leica T owners can set up a mobile hotspot through which images are shuttled between the camera and an iOS mobile device running the Leica T app. In addition, firmware 1.5 speeds up the camera’s wireless reconnection with known networks and improves reconnection reliability.

The Leica T for iOS app is available from iTunes. The new firmware version 1.5 update is available through the Leica T website.

Via: Leica Rumors

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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