Sony has announced the DT 55-300mm F4.5-5.6 SAM, a budget telephoto zoom designed to complement the 18-55mm ‘kit’ lens. It’s optimized for Sony’s APS-C Alpha SLTs and DSLRs, and features the company’s Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) for fast, quiet focussing. Billed as an ideal lens for capturing stills and video of distant subjects, it features an ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) element, which should reduce aberrations and increase sharpness. It will be available in September for around $ 300.
News: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
ArcSoft has released a free ‘Photo Makeover’ application called Perfect365, that allows users to manipulate their pictures and portraits with a single button click. It offers cleanup options such as blemish removal and skin softening, alongside makeover features such as ‘smile enhance’ and ‘cheek lift’. There’s also built-in support for sharing via social media such as Facebook and Twitter. Perfect365 is available immediately as a free download for PC users, with iPhone/iPad, Mac and Facebook versions to follow.
Apple has released an updated version of its Aperture Raw-conversion and photo management software. Version 3.2 adds compatibility with the company’s iCloud online storage functionality and the latest iOS 5 operating system. The update also resolves minor bugs and adds miscellaneous improvements. It is available for immediate download from Apple’s website.