Kodak Alaris has announced a major update to its Moments image sharing app, which allows for direct printing to Kodak Picture Kiosks and online ordering of print products. The company has added to the app what it calls visual storytelling capabilities. Read more
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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| The Canon imageProGraf Pro-4000 |
Canon has announced it will introduce two new large format printers for professional photographers as part of its imagePrograf Pro series. The Pro-2000 and Pro-4000 both use 12-color Lucia pigment ink systems and produce either 24in or 44in prints. With their black bodies and ‘accentuated red line’ the printers are designed to link visually with the Canon EOS range of cameras to emphasise that they are intended for photo-quality printing and made to get the most out of EOS files.
A transparent Chroma Optimiser ‘ink’ is used alongside the colors that Canon says improves ‘print performance on gloss papers’ – which means it evens out the finish between the inks and the paper so the inks don’t stand out.
The printers are due to arrive in the middle of the year priced $ 5995 for the Pro-4000 and $ 2995 for the Pro-2000.
For more information visit the Canon website.
Press release:
Canon Europe, world leader in imaging solutions, today announced a new range of imagePROGRAF PRO large format professional inkjet printers. The new imagePROGRAF PRO-2000 and imagePROGRAF PRO-4000 are designed to bring stunning image quality to professional photographers and fine art applications, while the new imagePROGRAF PRO-4000S and imagePROGRAF PRO-6000S deliver fast and reliable printing to high-volume print service providers that require photo quality prints such as posters, banners and canvas.
Superior image quality for professional users
The 12-colour PRO-2000 and PRO-4000 enable the full clarity and texture of photographs taken with a Canon EOS camera to be perfectly reproduced. Thanks to Canon’s unique input-output technology and Crystal-fidelity feature, photos look as accurate printed as when they were captured. Available in two sizes (24” and 44”) the PRO-2000 and PRO-4000 feature an attractive black design with an accentuated red line, denoting the link with Canon EOS digital cameras. The new devices use newly developed LUCIA PRO pigment ink to meet the demands of the most critical photographers and graphic artists, as well as transparent Chroma Optimiser ink to improve print performance on gloss paper.
Mathew Faulkner, European Marketing Manager for Wide Format Group, Canon Europe says “At Canon, we understand the importance of fine detail and precise colours to professional users. Images shot on even mid-range cameras can be very high resolution, and with the ability of today’s image editing software, this demands a highly accurate and colour-consistent output. The powerful technology of the new PRO-2000 and PRO-4000 models, not only provide incredible image reproduction, but the small footprint makes them ideal for any office, studio or design department.”
Unbeatable efficiency for print service providers
Also available in two sizes, (44” and 60”), the PRO-4000S and PRO-6000S boast an ergonomic compact design, which is ideal for time and space-pressed print operations in graphic arts, advertising and creative sectors. With a powerful L-COA PRO engine capable of processing large volumes of high-res images and data with ease, the new devices enable poster-quality printing at twice the speed of current imagePROGRAF 8 colour models. Full connectivity and Wi-Fi functionality ensures optimum productivity for busy environments.
Mathew Faulkner continues, “Whether for PSPs or in-house print departments in retailers or educational facilities, the trend towards more operational efficiency and on-demand printing is undeniable. There is a growing requirement not only for high quality imaging, but for ease of use and efficient media handling, as well as high-speed and uninterrupted printing to support high-volume output. These fundamental tools require a powerful and dependable large format printer. The PRO-4000S and PRO-6000S deliver speed, accuracy and colour vibrancy, making them ideal for both print-for-pay and print-for-use environments.”
The new devices feature Canon’s unique dual roll technology to support continuous paper feeding and take-up of printed output, while direct printing from a USB memory stick enables fast and easy prints. The imagePROGRAF PRO series is further improved by the new precision 1.28” wide print head and high-capacity ink tanks for fast, uninterrupted printing.
The new imagePROGRAF series will be available across Europe from the middle of 2016. To see the new imagePROGRAF PRO series in action, visit Canon at FESPA Digital 2016 from March 8-11, Stand F100-F120
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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Luxury camera bag manufacturer Ona has launched a new leather backpack that is its first bag to feature a completely removable insert as well as removable dividers. The Clifton is designed to hold a DSLR with a lens attached along with up to six other lenses or accessories, as well as a laptop or tablet of up to 13in.
Made with Italian leather on the front facing and air mesh on the back and under the shoulder pads, the bag weighs 1.7 kg/3.8 lb and measures 44.5 x 29 x 12.7 cm/17.5 x 11.5 x 5 in on the outside. The interior is only half an inch smaller all the way around, and is padded with soft material and accommodates the Velcro-ended dividers. The whole insert can be taken out to make way for larger items or items that don’t need so much protection – such as clothes. The insert has its own zip too, so kit can still be stored in it even when it isn’t in the bag. A front zipped compartment is suitable for memory cards, pens, notes and the like.
The Ona Clifton will have an Antique Cognac finish, and is priced $ 499. For more information visit the Ona website.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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Profoto has launched the OCF Beauty Dish, a collapsible, lightweight, fabric version of its Softlight Reflector. Unlike the Softlight Reflector, the OCF Beauty Dish can be collapsed and stored in a carrying case when not in use, making it a more attractive option for photographers on the move.
The OCF Beauty Dish is available in silver and white versions, and includes a diffuser, deflector plate, and carrying bag. Including the deflector plate and speedring (the latter of which is sold separately), the entire beauty dish weighs 1.1lbs/.48kg and measures 56 x 56 x 22 cm/22 x 22 x 8.7 in. This model can only be used with Profoto’s B1 and B2 flashes, however.
The OCF Beauty Dish is available now from Profoto’s website for $ 179.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Corephotonics, a provider of computational camera solutions based in Israel has launched a new dual-camera module for smartphones called Hawkeye. Hawkeye combines a standard 13MP camera module with a second 13MP module that uses proprietary folded optics. Read more
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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A remote control spinning tripod head that is said to be ideal for shooting panoramas has been launched in the US and UK by Polaroid. The Panorama Eyeball Head fits on a tripod or stands freely on its own feet, and can accommodate DSLRs as well as compacts. The control unit connects with the head via an IR link and manages both the speed and direction of rotation.
The head is capable of turning a full 360° and the company says that careful gearing ensures the motion is always smooth. There are five speed modes as well as a mode that provides three fixed viewpoints up to 75° apart.
The head is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery that is said to provide up to five hours of standby time, and which can be recharged via a powered USB port.
The Polaroid Panorama Eyeball Head costs £44.99/$ 49.99 through Amazon.
Press release:
RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ – The versatile Polaroid remote-controlled 360° panorama eyeball head accessory is a compact, portable freestanding mini tripod that can also be placed on a tripod, slider or even selfie stick. Designed for Polaroid cameras, other small popular cameras and SLRs, the Polaroid remote-controlled 360° panorama eyeball head is ideal for creating the perfect panoramic video or picture. IR remote controls offer five speed modes, clockwise and counter clockwise rotation, as well as a triangle mode up to 75°.
Panoramic Shooting Made Plenty Fun
For the contemporary videographer, being able to capture expansive panoramic vistas without any shake or distortion is an absolute must. Thankfully, the Polaroid remote-controlled 360° panorama eyeball head delivers effortless and precisely controlled results. It is compatible with a range of action cameras such as the Polaroid Cube lifestyle action camera line and smaller digital cameras (with ¼” threaded hole). Attachment comes included.
Turns on a Dime – or Quarter
The Polaroid remote-controlled panorama eyeball head rotates your camera in its place, clockwise or counterclockwise, for smooth shooting action. Users can easily control the turning degree from 0 to 360°.
Heeds Your Need for Speed
Using the remote, shooters can also control the exact rotational speed. Press a button to speed up, and press a button to slow down. And thanks to finely calibrated gears, the action always remains perfectly smooth.
Functions Free or Mounted
At the top, a ¼” threaded screw connects to a wide variety of cameras. A padded platform prevents motion-related scratches. At the bottom, a ¼” threaded hole accepts tripod and slider connections for greater application flexibility.
Runs on Built-In Battery
To make this already compact and pocket-sized head as portable as possible, the built-in battery is rechargeable from any USB port or power outlet. A single charge provides five hours of standby and over three hours of non-stop runtime.
The Polaroid remote-controlled 360° panorama eyeball head accessory is available now for $ 49.99.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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| The new model (right) is smaller and lighter than the original version of the lens (left) |
The Shenyang Zhongyi Optical & Electronic Company Limited has introduced an updated version of its super-fast 35mm lens for APS-C-sensor cameras that it claims has better resolution and reduced chromatic aberrations. The manual focus Mitakon Speedmaster 35mm F0.95 II is also smaller and lighter than the original model, with a length of 60mm instead of 82mm, a filter thread of 55mm instead of 58mm and a weight of 460g/1.06lb compared to 680g/1.5lb.
The latest version uses a new optical design that features 11 elements in 8 groups, and includes a single extra-low dispersion element, two extra-high refractive index elements, and three elements made in high-refractive glass. The company says the new design produces 30% more resolution via better overall sharpness and reduced chromatic aberrations. Performance wide open is also greatly improved, ZY Optics says.
A click-less aperture ring makes the lens suitable for video recording, so it is a shame the Micro Four Thirds system isn’t supported in the initial offering. Fuji X, Sony E and EOS-M camera system owners will be provided for though.
The lens costs $ 599, and you can learn more on the ZY Optics website.
Press release:
Shenyang China, Feb 14, 2016 – Zhongyi Optics (ZY Optics) has released an improved version of their first f/0.95 lens, Zhongyi Mitakon Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II. The mark II verison features a drastic improvement of sharpness, better control of chromatic abberations and much compact size. The new version comes with a Fuji X / Sony E / EOS-M mount and is able to cover the image circle of APS-C sized sensors.
Zhongyi Mitakon Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II is a ultra-fast prime lens which provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length of around 53mm in APS-C cameras. A maximum aperture of f/0.95 makes it extremely convenient to shoot at a low light conditions without flash. The new optical design incorporates a 11 elements in 8 groups structure, including 1pc of Extralow disperson elements, 2 pcs of Extra-high Refractive Index elements and 3pcs of High Refractive Index elements. This structure effectively improved the image resolution by 30% compared to the previous version from corners to corners. This also controls the chromatic abberations very well and deliver excellent image sharpness even at f/0.95.
The new Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 is light and compact. The total weight is reduced from 680g to 460g, making it an ideal companion for the compact mirrorless cameras. Manual focus design and a click-less, silent aperture ring promote smooth handling and are especially well-suited to video applications. The lens is built in metallic enclosure with additional protective process and finest finishing, which gives extra durability and aesthetic.
Pricing & Availability
Mitakon Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 is now available to purchase at ZY Optics authorized resellers and at our official website (http://www.zyoptics.net/). The Recommended Retail price is USD 599.
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If you’re one to be tempted by fancy camera straps, you may be interested that street photographer Eric Kim has announced two new ‘Henri’ straps: the ‘Henri’ Neck Strap (Mark II) and the ‘Henri’ Wrist Strap. The newest neck strap is made from a darker leather than the previous version, the same color as ‘a good cup of coffee,’ according to Kim. The wrist strap is also made of leather and offers a similar design.
The straps are handmade by a leather-maker in Saigon, and are then polished and packaged in Berkeley. Both items are available with limited stock. Buyers in the U.S. can purchase the neck strap for $ 79.95 and the wrist strap for $ 39.95 through Amazon. International buyers can purchase the straps through PayPal via Kim’s website for the same rates plus $ 15 USD for shipping.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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Tamrac has introduced two camera bags as part of its new Hoodoo product lineup. The Hoodoo 18 and Hoodoo 20 packs are described as being ‘minimal and lightweight’ with features including a water-resistant waxed canvas exterior, PU coated ripstop fabrics, and selective padding for comfort.
These two new Tamrac bags are designed for use in the great outdoors, and come in two different sizes, with the Hoodoo 18 bag being the smaller of the two. The Hoodoo 18 bag can carry a mirrorless camera or DSLR as well as one or two lenses and a 13-inch laptop. The camera compartment is separate from the bag’s main compartment.
The Hoodoo 20, meanwhile, is described as ‘three packs in one,’ able to serve as a camera shoulder bag, day pack, or protective camera backpack, depending on the need. Customizable interior dividers can be adjusted to accommodate a mirrorless system or DSLR, while the upper portion includes space for personal gear and a 15-inch laptop.
Both bags are available now in ‘ocean,’ ‘kiwi,’ and ‘pumpkin’ colors. The Hoodoo 18 is priced at $ 89.95 USD, and the Hoodoo 20 at $ 129.95 USD.
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German camera manufacturer Leica has announced it has produced a waterproof, shock-proof and dust-proof compact camera that uses an APS-C sensor. The Leica X-U (Typ 113) joins the X family of compacts, but offers waterproofing to 15m / 50ft and a body that is designed to be used both beneath and above the waves.
The camera uses a 16.3MP CMOS sensor like the other models in the X series, but sports a 23mm F1.7 Summilux ASPH lens that delivers the same angle of view as a 35mm lens would on a full-frame camera. The lens can focus down to 20cm and features a flash housing directly above the axis of the front element that reduces the distance between the flash and the subject – which will be useful underwater, as illumination drops off quickly. The flash has a guide number of only 5m at ISO 100, and according to Leica has an operating range of 0.3-2m at that ISO setting.
The camera shoots both Raw and JPEG files, and has a movie mode that records at 30 fps in 1080 HD resolution. When used underwater a press of the UW button activates Underwater mode, which adjusts the white balance accordingly and sets distortion correction to suit the conditions.
Leica says the camera was designed in collaboration with Audi Design, and that the top plate is made from high grade aluminum and the body coated in ‘high-grip TPE armoring’.
The camera is available now, and costs £2400 / $ 2,950. A floating neck strap is available for £50 / $ 95 and a wrist strap for £32 / $ 65. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I think this is Leica’s first ever commercially available underwater camera.
For more information see the Leica website.
Press release:
New outdoor camera from Leica delivers outstanding picture quality in the harshest conditions
Leica Camera has unveiled its first camera designed specifically for outdoor and underwater photography – the Leica X-U (Typ 113).
Incorporating a fast Leica Summilux 23mm f/1.7 ASPH. lens (equivalent to 35mm in 35mm format) with underwater protection filter, and a large APS-C CMOS sensor, this fully waterproofed member of the Leica X family delivers images with exceptional brightness and clarity, even in the harshest of conditions.
Created for the adventurous photographer, the Leica X-U allows the user to capture breathtaking underwater moments in perfect detail, at depths of up to 15 metres. Shock-resistant, dust-sealed and shatter-proof, this rugged camera is the ideal companion for any outdoor expedition or adventure – whether it’s action or underwater shooting, extreme sports, travel, architectural or landscape photography – and also offers video capture in full HD quality.
Optimum picture performance is guaranteed, thanks to the cutting-edge technology the X-U shares with all models in the Leica X range. Combined with its professional 16.5 MP (16.2 MP effective) APSC CMOS sensor, the Leica X-U’s premium Summilux 23 mm f/1.7 ASPH. lens ensures natural colour reproduction and outstanding resolution, even at the closest focusing distance of 20 centimetres. Its fast f/1.7 maximum aperture also offers the freedom to explore the creativity of selective focusing. In addition, due to the camera’s excellent resistance to stray light and flare, the Leica X-U is the perfect choice for an extensive range of indoor and outdoor lighting conditions – at any time of day or night.
Made in Germany in collaboration with Audi Design, the stylish yet minimal Leica X-U focuses on the essential features: simple and intuitive operation, as well as ultimate precision. With a top plate made from premium aluminium and high-grip TPE armouring, the body ensures exceptional usability, handling and durability, as well as water resistance to a depth of up to 15 metres.
Designed to embrace the elements, and for the most ambitious photography projects, the Leica X-U incorporates a non-slip body, a toughened monitor screen cover, and a failsafe double locking system for the battery compartment and memory card slot. These robust protective features ensure that photographers can concentrate fully on their subject, with full confidence in the camera’s durability.
Furthermore, the minimal, intuitive design of the Leica X-U puts the most important creative tools directly at the photographer’s fingertips. Aperture and shutter speed can be set quickly and easily using the straightforward, typical ’Leica-style’ dials, while a practical underwater snapshot button ensures the camera is ready to capture the wonders of the underwater world immediately – without the need to search through menus. Thanks to the camera’s high resolution three inch screen and a wide range of useful automatic features, it takes just seconds to find the precise settings the photographer requires to capture their decisive moment.
Additionally, with its anodised aluminium control dials and an integrated flash above the lens, the Leica X-U is a perfect example of exceptional quality and attention to detail.
For those on a challenging professional assignment or a magical holiday of a lifetime, important moments can also be recorded in full HD, cinema-quality video – with a choice of 1920×1080 or 1280×720 pixel resolution, at 30 full frames per second in MP4 format. And whether the footage is intended for a professional production or a home movie to share with friends and family, the Leica X-U delivers high quality results that perfectly capture that special adventure.
| Price | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $ 2950 |
| Body type | |
| Body type | Large sensor compact |
| Body material | Aluminum |
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 4928 x 3264 |
| Image ratio w:h | 3:2 |
| Effective pixels | 16 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 17 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (23.6 x 15.7 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Color space | sRGB |
| Color filter array | Primary color filter |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto, 100-12500 |
| White balance presets | 5 |
| Custom white balance | Yes (2 spots) |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Super fine, fine |
| File format |
|
| Optics & Focus | |
| Focal length (equiv.) | 35 mm |
| Optical zoom | 1× |
| Maximum aperture | F1.7 – F16.0 |
| Autofocus |
|
| Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
| Normal focus range | 20 cm (7.87″) |
| Number of focus points | 11 |
| Screen / viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | Fully articulated |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 920,000 |
| Touch screen | No |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | None |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Exposure modes |
|
| Built-in flash | Yes |
| Flash range | 2.00 m (at ISO 100) |
| External flash | Yes |
| Flash modes | Automatic, automatic/red eye reduction, on, on/red eye reduction, long-term synchronization/red eye reduction, off |
| Drive modes |
|
| Continuous drive | 5.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Metering modes |
|
| Exposure compensation | ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±3 (3 frames at 1/3 EV steps) |
| Videography features | |
| Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (30p), 1280 x 720 (30p) |
| Format | MPEG-4 |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Connectivity | |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| HDMI | No |
| Microphone port | No |
| Headphone port | No |
| Remote control | No |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | Yes |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | BP-DC8 lithium-ion battery & charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 450 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 635 g (1.40 lb / 22.40 oz) |
| Dimensions | 140 x 79 x 88 mm (5.51 x 3.11 x 3.46″) |
| Other features | |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| GPS | None |
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)