Since the quest for the perfect camera bag will likely never end, we continue ours with a look at the Tamrac Evolution 9, a larger bag that can be used as a backpack or slingpack. Capable of holding a pro digital SLR with a long zoom, a 17-inch notebook, plus several lenses and accessories, the Evolution 9 seemed durable and well designed. Click through for our review to learn how it held up in the field.
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February 2013
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April 2013
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March 2013 news and reviews
March 30
March 29
Studio Lighting accessories maker Phottix has announced the 16-inch Multi Boom, with a tiltable bracket for umbrella softboxes. Priced at $69.99, it can hold up to two flashguns, and allows compatible softboxes to be tilted up to 180 degrees. According to the company, umbrella softboxes from Phottix and other manufacturers are easy to set-up, but almost impossible to tilt on traditional light stands. This can be resolved by attaching the Multi Boom bracket.
“Photos At My Door “allows anyone to browse their friends’ albums and create photo products.
Sony has released two new apps on its PlayMemories App Store for owners of their Wi-Fi-equipped NEX-5R and NEX-6 cameras. The apps, Light Shaft and Motion Shot, are priced at $4.99 each. If you've been yearning to add fake lens flare effects to your photos, then read on.
We are having a closer look at the HTC One's ultrapixel claims.
Facebook invites press to “Come See Our New Home On Android" on April 4.
Panasonic has posted the promised firmware updates for its movie-focused Lumix DMC-GH3 mirrorless camera, the 14-42mm and 45-175mm power zooms and the 45-150mm lens. The GH3 update adds the ability to shoot 1080p60 footage in MP4 format and lets users connect to a computer via Wi-Fi by entering the computer name (NetBIOS names for Mac). Meanwhile the lens updates promise improved autofocus performance in AF Continuous mode when mounted on the GH3.
These tiny devices buck the 5-inch smartphone trend.
Sweet’s photo illustrations have caught the attention of mobile photographers and celebrities.
HTC's latest flagship phone tough to tear apart and hard to fix.
Soon after being drafted into the Vietnam War as a rifleman in 1967, photography enthusiast Charlie Haughey was taking photos of his unit for Army and US publications. Upon returning home his negatives sat untouched in boxes. In 2012 Haughey viewed these images for the first time in 45 years and began the emotionally charged process of captioning them for public display. The images are available on Flickr and digital prints will be on exhibit at the ADX gallery in Portland, Oregon on April 5. Click through to view some of the photos and read more. (via The Boston Globe)
March 28
An 83-year-old Turkish tailor has become photographer Zoe Spawton's muse for her blog 'What Ali Wore.' The Tumblr blog, styled after the popular fashion photograhy blog, The Sartorialist, features just Ali and his impeccable taste in clothes. In an interview with German website Spiegel.de, the photographer explains how Ali caught her eye as he passed by the cafe where she works wearing a new ensemble every day. Her daily snapshots of his ever-alternating outfits evolved into a full-blown photo project. Click through to see the photos and a link to Zoe's blog. (via Spiegel.de)
How will Google Glass and new 'lifeblogging' cameras change our society?
Transcend has released a 64GB microSDXC Ultra-High Speed Class 1 (UHS-I) memory card. The card offers data transfer speeds of up to 45MB/s (300x), and an ability to store more than 10,000 hi-res JPEG images (6MB file size) or 16 hours of 1080p HD videos. It also includes a free copy of the company's RecoveRx software to recover deleted or lost files. The memory card is available for $109. Click through for the press release.
Think you have what it takes to win the 6th annual contest?
March 27
SLR Magic has announced its Monster Lens II spotting scope for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The optic mounts directly on the camera body, allowing users to shoot distant images, commonly referred to as 'digiscoping'. The 12-36x50 ED lens gives an equivalent optical zoom range of 840-2,520mm and aims to keep image quality high with extra-low dispersion optics and multi-coated glass elements. It will be available from June 2013 at a suggested retail price of $799. Click through to to read more.
We've just added three pages of studio test data to our preview of the Fujifilm X100S, following the publication of a gallery of real-world samples, last week. The X100S is the successor to the popular X100, and offers a fixed 35mm (equiv.) F2 lens, and a version of Fujifilm's APS-C format X-Trans sensor with hybrid phase-detection AF. A host of other, smaller improvements should make the X100S a considerably more appealing camera than its predecessor. Click through for a link to the updated preview to see for yourself how it compares to its peers in our studio.
Sigma has announced a delay in the shipping of its new USB dock for lenses and 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM lens for Canon that was expected to retail this month. According to the company, this delay is due to supply issues of the parts. Announced at Photokina 2012, the USB dock enables users to easily update lens firmware and fine-tune focus parameters, while the 120-300mm F2.8 lens comes with a button to adjust the focus speed and the focus limiter. Sigma has not given details about when it will start shipping the products.
Bruce Livingstone, founder of iStockphoto (which has since been acquired by Getty Images), has launched Stocksy, an artist-owned stock photography co-operative. Under its licensing terms, photographers receive 50% of each royalty transaction. Each photographer also receives equity and is entitled to a share of the co-operative's annual profits. This launch comes hot on the heels of a recent and controversial deal between Getty Images and Google, in which Google Drive's image vault gives public access to over 5000 Getty images with very little compensation to the photographers.
The iOS app tells you when and where to take photos of iconic landmarks using detailed EXIF data.
Our five favorite Android apps for taking pictures.
March 26
Russian photographer Vitaly Raskalov, known on the web for his 'skywalking' exploits in which he scales man-made structures (without authorization) has added Egypt's Great Pyramid of Giza to his list of conquests. And, as is his custom he has posted photos taken atop of one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Raskalov and his companions managed to hide from armed guards and climb the pyramid undetected at night. Climbing the Great Pyramid is illegal of course but you can click through to see the images Raskalov captured. (via Daily Mail)
A photographer has been reunited with her Canon PowerShot camera, six years after losing it in the ocean off Hawaii. The camera, which was in a waterproof housing, drifted for thousands of miles to the coast of Taiwan, where it was picked up by an employee of China Airlines. The airline identified its owner, Lindsay Scallan of Georgia, USA from photos on the memory card. Click through for pictures and more details (Hawaii News Now via Petapixel)
New app claims it works "like the negatives from a film camera."
Xperia ZL price listed in U.S., T-Mobile gets the iPhone, 'ultrapixels' slow HTC's production.
We've just posted our review of Sony's NEX-6 mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. The NEX-6 brings a much-requested mode dial and ISO standard hot shoe to Sony's mirrorless lineup, and also adds a Hybrid AF system, Wi-Fi, and downloadable 'apps'. The NEX-6 also features a 16MP CMOS sensor, articulating LCD, XGA OLED electronic viewfinder, and fun point-and-shoot features like Sweep Panorama and various automatic modes. Click through to read our full review of what may be the most rounded NEX yet.
A rare set of photos taken by an amateur photographer of the Beatles' 1965 concert at the Shea Stadium, New York have been sold at an auction for £30000 (~ $47000). Photographer Marc Weinstein used a fake press pass to get a spot next to the stage. According to Weinsten, the only other photographer present at the show ran out of film during the concert. Weinstein's 61 pictures fetched £30,680, compared with a pre-sale estimate of £15,000-£20,000. Click through for some pictures and links to the full story on the BBC, and an Examiner.com interview from 2009.
Samsung has announced that its NX300 mirrorless camera will be available in both US and European markets by the end of this month as a kit with the 20-50mm lens for $749.99 and £599 respectively. The 3D-capable camera is built around a 20MP sensor, 3.3" OLED screen and built-in Wi-Fi. The kit will also include a free copy of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4 editing software. The company has also announced that the 45mm F1.8 2D/3D lens will be available at the same time for $499.99. There is currently no information about its European price.
March 25
We've just received a reviewable Nikon D7100, and have been lucky enough to get access to pre-release raw support from Adobe, which has allowed us to add Nikon's newest 24MP DSLR to our studio comparison database. We've also taken advantage of our first opportunity to shoot 'real world' images with the D7100 and its 18-105 kit lens at a range of ISO sensitivities. Click through for links to both the studio comparisons and real-world samples gallery.
Canon Singapore has launched a 'Try and Buy' lens scheme allowing customers to borrow more than seventy of the company's EF and EF-S lenses at a fee for 48 hours. While a similar service is currently available globally to Canon Professional Services (CPS) members, Canon Singapore has opened this up for non-members as well. The service will start from March 28, 2013.
Updates out for Android and iPhone; iOS version incorporates Snapseed.
DxO Labs has released version 8.1.4 of its DxO Optics Pro software. Both the Elite and Standard versions gain Nikon Coolpix P7700, Nikon 1 J3, Olympus XZ-2 iHS, and Panasonic DMC-GH3 support. The update also adds more than 200 lens and cameras combinations for Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Sigma, Tokina, and Zeiss users. These modules join the existing list of over 11,000 combinations. Click through for the download link.
Instagramer @shams2517 gives an intimate look at the life of a Russian sodier.
Accessory uses LED lights as an alternative to smartphone's unattractive flash.
iFixit finds flagship phone easily fixable, unless you drop it on its ultra-thin display.
Google has announced the Nik Collection, a bundle of all six of Nik software's imaging plugins for $149, or 70% off the original price. Consisting of Dfine 2.0, Viveza 2, HDR Efex Pro 2, Color Efex Pro 4 Complete Edition, Silver Efex Pro 2, and Sharpener Pro 3.0, the collection uses a single installer which is compatible with Adobe Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, and Lightroom, and Apple Aperture. It's available now as a download from the Nik Software site for $149, with a 15-day free trial available. Google is also offering existing users of any Nik plugin the entire collection for free. Click through for more details on Connect.
The Nik Collection by Google includes every single one of Nik’s desktop plugins in a single bundle.
March 22
The Smithsonian Magazine is calling on readers to vote in its 10th annual Reader's Choice Award. Voters can select their favorite photo from among 50 finalists. This year's contest received 37,600 entries from 112 countries. The Magazine's editors will also select winners for five additional categories - Altered Images, American Experience, Natural World, People and Travel. Voting is open through March 29, 2013. Click through for the link and to view some of the finalist's images.
Bigger than a phone, smaller than a tablet, the Note II fills a specialized gap, but does it work for mobile photographers?
Frustrated by size limitations when uploading images to Google+, photographer Trey Ratcliff discovered a way to get around the limitations, and upload original full-resolution photos. In a blog post, he has put together a step-by-step guide on how to do it, which involves using Google Drive - Google's cloud storage service - and sharing images directly from there to Google+. Click through to read about how - and why - he did it. (via Reddit)
As part of our ongoing effort to make dpreview more useful, we've moved user reviews into the forum system. There are more than 40,000 user reviews on the site, and now you can create, post, view and comment on them directly from the forums. More after the jump...
An architect living in Madrid sees the world through the lens of his iPhone 4S.
Fujifilm has announced the Wi-Fi-enabled S8400W superzoom camera with 44x (24-1056mm equiv.) optical zoom lens. It features a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor, 3 inch 460K dot LCD and an electronic viewfinder. The S8400W records 1080i60 video alongside stereo audio, and offers 10 fps continuous shooting speeds, 0.3 second auto-focus speed and manual exposure modes. Users can share images wirelessly via the 'Fujifilm Camera Application' app for iOS and Android devices. The camera will start shipping from May 2013 at a suggested retail price of $349.95.
Fujifilm has launched the XP200 rugged compact camera with built-in Wi-Fi. It is waterproof to a depth of 15m, shockproof for drops of up to 2m, freezeproof to -10°C and dust/sand proof. It is based around a 16MP CMOS sensor and 28-140mm equivalent lens. The camera's Wi-Fi capability allows users to share photos via the 'Fujifilm Camera Application' app for iOS and Android devices. The XP200 will be available in black, yellow, blue and red from May 2013 at a suggested retail price of $299.95 / £229.99.
March 21
Nikon has said it will spend around ¥600m (around $6.3m) to establish a factory in Laos. The factory will conduct part of the production process for the company's entry- and mid-level DSLRs, with final assembly still taking part in the existing Ayutthaya plant in Thailand. The move aims to increase production capacity and help reduce costs, the company says. The announcement suggests all mass-market Nikons will still pass through Ayutthaya, where all production was halted for several months following a devastating flood in October 2011.
Developers add 30,000 more apps since the launch of the new OS.
Some of our favorite apps are rolling out major updates.
Olympus has announced the Stylus VH-520, an affordable 10x compact superzoom with a 14MP CMOS sensor. It offers a 26-260mm equivalent stabilized zoom lens and the ability to shoot 1080p video. It also offers 'Magic Filter' processing effects that can be applied to both stills and video, along with high-speed movie mode. The VH-520 will be available from April at a price of around £130.
iPhoneographers have a lot to choose from in the App Store; here's a few of our current favs.
Mobile technology is increasingly focused on health, with unique camera phone applications.
We've just posted a hands-on preview of the Canon EOS 100D/Rebel SL1. Distinguished by its impressively small form factor, the 100D's 18MP CMOS sensor, 3" touchscreen LCD and 1080p30 video resolution will be familiar to followers of the Rebel series. Canon's hybrid phase/contrast detect AF system has been tweaked, however, to provide much greater scene coverage. Has Canon managed to maintain its customary handling experience in the smallest DSLR it has ever made? Click through to read our preview and find out.
We've just posted a hands-on preview of the Canon EOS 700D/Rebel T5i. Remarkably similar to its predecessor, the Canon 700D's new model number seems intended more to showcase the new 18-55mm STM lens than to highlight the new camera's few minor changes. Does the 700D remain a good choice for first-time SLR buyers? Click through to read our hands-on preview.
Canon has announced the EOS 100D/Rebel SL1, the world's smallest, lightest DSLR. It shares the 18MP resolution, DIGIC 5 processor, 3" touchscreen and 1080p30 video capability of the mirrorless EOS M. The camera does introduce much wider scene coverage of Canon's Hybrid AF system and shoots at up to 4 fps. The 100D has a recommended price of $799.99/£799 with the co-announced EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM kit lens.
Canon has moved early to replace last year's 650D/Rebel T4i with the 700D/T5i. Like its predecessor, the new camera has an 18MP APS-C Hybrid CMOS sensor with built-in phase-detection autofocus, a DIGIC 5 processor, a 9-point cross-type AF system, and Full HD movie mode. Among only a few minor changes, the Canon 700D is bundled with a new 18-55mm STM lens, which should offer better movie AF at a recommended price of $899.99/£849.
Canon has launched two SX series compact superzooms, the PowerShot SX280 HS and SX270 HS. The difference between the two is that the SX280 HS includes Wi-Fi connectivity and GPS, whereas the SX270 HS, which is not being announced by Canon USA, does not. Beyond that, both are 20x compact superzooms with 25-500mm equivalent image-stabilized lenses and 3 inch 460k dot LCD screens. Both feature 12MP back-lit CMOS sensors and the company's latest Digic 6 processor.
March 20
US photographer Brian Masck has filed suit against several parties over unauthorized and unpaid use of a photograph he shot 22 years ago that has since become an iconic image recognizable to almost any US sport fan. Among the defendants is the subject of the photo himself, Desmond Howard, who used the image on his own website.
Watch the Dual Camera and Sound & Shot features in action.
New app for iOS and Android includes impressive editing features.
Photographer Henrik Sorensen has uploaded an interesting behind-the-scenes YouTube video of his recent 'submerged fairy' shoot for the advertising campaign for Hasselblad's H5D digital medium format camera. Taking inspiration from Danish folklore and its royal history he opted to use a submerged castle interior as the backdrop. Click through to watch the video (via FStoppers)
Our reviewer subjects the case to rugged outdoor conditions; learn how his iPhone fared.
March 19
Are there compact flash solutions for the Sigma DP1M, DP2M and DP3M? Photographer Gary Dean Mercer Clark discusses the Sigma EF 140 DG compact flash and the Metz 20 C-2 " Auto" flash as pocketable flash solutions for Sigma's tiny super high resolution 30 MP equivalent APC sensored cameras.
DxOMark tests the Blackberry Z10 camera and ranks it on the lower end of its smartphone scale.
Minox has released the latest generation of their 'Digital Classic Camera', whose miniature rangefinder body harkens back to the 1950's. The DCC 14.0 features a 14 Megapixel CMOS sensor, 41mm-equivalent fixed lens, optical viewfinder, 2" LCD display, and VGA video recording. The camera will be available soon in your choice of black or silver for $239.
Graphics tablet maker Wacom has announced the Cintiq 13HD, a 13-inch compact interactive graphics tablet that features a 1920 x 1080 LED monitor capable of displaying 16.7 million colors. Combined with the company's latest Pro Pen the Cintiq 13HD offers 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity for graphic design and retouching. The Cintiq 13HD is the smallest model in the Cintiq lineup and the most affordable, too. It will start shipping from April 2013, at a cost of $999.99/ £749.99. Click through for more details.
The World Photography Organisation has announced the winners for the Open, Youth and 3D categories of the 2013 Sony-sponsored World Photography Awards. The organization announced a shortlist for all the categories last month, and will be announcing the professional category winners at Somerset House in London on April 25th. Click through to read more about the winners and see their winning images.
App update includes features to please manual photographers.
Tim Landis is helping brands connect to customers with his trademark landscape photography.
March 18
We've just added a 39-image sample gallery to our preview of the Fujifilm X100S. The X100S is the sucessor to the X100, one of our favorite cameras of the past couple of years, but one that was not without its share of quirks. The X100S features a new 16MP X-Trans sensor, a hybrid AF system with on-sensor phase-detection autofocus and numerous operational improvements. We previewed the new camera earlier this year and we'll be adding more content to that as we work towards a full review but for now, click through for a link to our gallery of real-world samples.
Popular iOS and Android editing software comes to Windows 8 platform.
Amateur filmmaker Marc Donahue of Permagrin Films recently shot a video with an array of fifteen GoPro action cameras to achieve Matrix-like bullet time special effects. The arc-shaped rig allowed him to shoot simultaneously from all cameras. In post, Donahue added the freeze frame and slow motion effects. Click through to watch the video. (via Mashable)
In a 'Master Series' video posted by lighting maker Profoto USA, celebrated photographer Greg Heisler shares a behind the scenes tale of how he created a unique on-location portrait of then-NBA star Alonzo Mourning. In explaining a lighting setup that even most other pros would struggle to pull off, Heisler breaks down his lighting diagram for a shot that he conceived, 'just because I think it looks cool'. (via Strobist)
Photographers have always manipulated photos. Today it’s just a little easier.
Both phones stay focused on imaging with 8MP cameras.
ACD Systems has released ACDSee Photo Editor 6, the company's photo editing software for enthusiasts. Among the highlights in version 6 are support for Raw files as non-destructive object layers and Lighting and Contrast Enhancement (LCE) technology that promises to improve the quality of poorly lit photos. Selective color editing tools have also been added. The software is available at a retail price of $49.99.
Perspective Correct app offers live perspective correction for iPhone.
A service center in Taiwan has repaired a seawater-damaged Nikon 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED lens by boiling it. According to a post by Nikon Rumors, after investigating the damage, staff established that the AF motor of the lens needed to be replaced and some internal parts were 'rusted' due to salt water damage. To remove this 'rust', they boiled them in water. The lens was apparently fixed in three days. (via Nikon Rumors)
March 15
Arizona-based wedding photographer, Trevor Dayley, is taking a unique approach to his portraiture by using a perspective control lens, the Canon TS-E 90mm F2.8. In an article he wrote for FStoppers, he explains why it has become his favorite lens and discusses the challenges and rewards of adding a tilt-shift lens to his arsenal. (via FStoppers)
New iOS app lets you selectively apply artistic effects.
Tokina has announced it will be shipping the AT-X 12-28 F4 PRO DX lens from April 2013 in Nikon mount, and June 2013 for the Canon version. Announced at the CP+ tradeshow, the lens is a replacement for the company's existing 12-24mm F4 wideangle zoom for APS-C cameras. But rather than making the lens wider to match its competitors, Tokina has chosen to extend it further into the 'normal' range, to give an 18-42mm equivalent zoom. The Japanese RRP of ¥90,000 is the same as that for the existing AT-X Pro DX 12-24mm F4 II lens. (via DCWatch)
We've had a closer look at Samsung's new superphone and its camera features at the launch event in New York.
Photographer Star Rush finds sequencing images into movie format useful for thinking through photo essays or exhibitions.
Samsung's latest flagship phone offers photographers a 13MP camera.
March 14
What is an ideal camera for today's smartphone generation? Designers Vincent Sall, Dae jin Ahn and Chun hyun Park have created designs to explore the question. Inspired by the Leica X2, Vincent Sall envisions a Leica X3 that is an extremely mobile version of the high-end compact that folds up and communicates with a smartphone to share its images. Korean designers Dae jin Ahn and Chun hyun Park have put together a modular camera design calling it the Equinox. Click through for pictures and more information about the concepts.
We've just added more pages of content to our hands-on preview of the 16MP Panasonic GH3, Panasonic's flagship GH-series Micro Four Thirds camera. These pages represent our progress so far towards the completion of a full review. We've added our full complement of studio tests, including resolution, noise and dynamic range, a small gallery of 'real world' samples and updated first impressions. Click through for a link to the 12-page preview.
DxOMark has tested 61 lenses on the Nikon D800, and drawn some conclusions about the results. So far it has published two sections of an eventual four-part article: the first discusses how much benefit the D800's 36MP sensor really offers over the 24MP chips in cameras such as the D3X and D600, while the second looks at which lenses in the 50-100mm range come out with the best DxOMark scores. Further parts later this month will look at telephoto and wideangle lenses. Click through for the link.
Google has announced it will no longer sell the desktop version of its Snapseed image editing application for both Windows and Mac. Existing customers will continue receive support and updates. The company will continue to offer the Snapseed mobile app on iOS and Android. In a blog post, the company has announced, as a part of its 'spring cleaning' it has decided to shut down Snapseed and Google Reader, among other products. Click through for Google's full statement and a link to our review of Snapseed for Mac, published last year.
Scientists use iPhone camera to diagnose intestinal worm infections in children.
Longtime camera users often scoff at the many limitations of smartphones. Staff writer Amadou Diallo finds that approach may be missing the point.
March 13
Founders of the GPS-equipped Memoto wearable camera, Martin Kallstrom and Oskar Kalmaru captured around 10,000 photographs at the SXSW music and film festival in Austin, Texas. This wearable square device made headlines when it surpassed its initial Kickstarter funding goal in just 5 hours. The Memoto camera automatically captures two 5MP geotagged photos every minute (one every 30 seconds) and the built-in accelerometer ensures pictures are turned to the correct orientation. All Things Digital has posted an article about the Memoto and its creators - click through for more details and a link to the original feature.
Check out these apps to get the most out of your Windows Phone 8 camera.
Nikon and Canon UK have announced Spring 2013 rebates with savings ranging from £30-£235. The Nikon offer applies to D3100, D3200, D5100, D5200, D7000 and D600 digital SLRs. The rebates are available on purchases made between March 14th- May 31st 2013. Canon UK is offering rebates on a number of DSLRs, lenses, printers and camcorders including the EOS 5D Mark III DSLR, 24-70mm f/2.8L II lens, G1 X compact camera and Pixma Pro-1 printer for purchases made between March 7th- May 31st 2013. Click through for links to the rebates.
Austrian photography enthusiast Christopher Malin has produced a short film featuring time-lapse photography taken by astronauts aboard the International Space Station. Captured with several Nikon D3S cameras, these sequences make for a unique and compelling view of the Earth and its surrounding environment. The film also includes a first hand account of the considerable challenges of photographing from space.
Rokinon has announced the T-S 24mm F3.5, a wideangle perspective control lens, for release in May 2013. Rokinon rebadges and distributes Samyang lenses for the US market, and this lens first appeared at Photokina 2012 as the Samyang T-S 24mm 1:3.5 ED AS UMC, but without a specific date for launch. The lens features manual focus and aperture setting, offers up to 12mm of shift and 8.5° of tilt, and is designed for full frame cameras. It'll initially be available in Canon, Nikon and Sony mounts, at an RRP of $1299.99.
March 12
Samsung UK has announced it will include a copy of Adobe Lightroom 4 photo-editing software for free with its NX300 APS-C mirrorless camera shipments. Announced at the CES 2013 tradeshow,the 3D-capable camera is built around a 20MP sensor, 3.3" OLED screen and built-in Wi-fi. We do not know whether this is a UK-only bundle, but we will update the story if more information becomes available.
The Canon EOS 1D X and Nikon D4 are aimed squarely at the specific and demanding needs of working pros. We recently sat down with two staff photographers from the Seattle Times for their insights gained through using these pro-level cameras on a daily basis. Find out what it's like to shoot with these flagship models from Canon and Nikon under the pressure of breaking news and tight deadlines.
Actual Pixels is a new free iOS app that allows you to view images at a 100% magnification.
Reviews of some popular Android apps that include camera functionality but are unable to produce unfiltered full-resolution photos. These apps are strictly for fun, and most of them are free.
Small, rugged, go-anywhere action cams have become increasingly popular. Both BBC news and Forbes magazine have taken a look at the booming action camera business over the last week. The BBC's Forbes posted an interesting story about GoPro's Founder and CEO Nick Woodman with details on the company's success. Click through to read more and for links to the posts.
We give you an overview of today's imaging app updates and news.
Last October, Portuguese freelance photojournalist Daniel Rodrigues was forced to sell off all his camera gear to pay the bills. Only a few months later, however, one of his images took first prize in the Daily Life category from the prestigious World Press Photo foundation. As a result of the ensuing attention, Rodrigues has been able to acquire new gear and resume his career in photojournalism. (via New York Times Lens blog)
Video accessories maker Cinetics has announced the CineVise camera mount. Similar to its Cine System, it is built around Joby's popular Gorillapod Focus flexible tripod. The CineVise includes clamps around its feet, allowing you to firmly mount a DSLR or small video camera to any surface. It can be purchased from the Cinetics store as a complete system, including the GorillaPod Focus and Ballhead X for $295. You can also purchase just the CineVise grips for $165.
We've just posted an update to our preview of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3, adding updated product photography (the camera we originally used had a non-final grip material) and three pages of studio comparison images, both JPEG and Raw. We're working on the remaining studio tests, and intend to add at least four more pages to this preview in the next few days, with a samples gallery and more detailed impressions on the camera's handling and performance. Look out for that towards the end of the week, but for now, click through to go to the updated preview.
March 11
Fujifilm is looking to bring down the cost of touch-screen technology by harnessing materials and manufacturing expertise used in creating film emulsions. Touch-screens are quickly becoming the standard interface of nearly every piece of mobile technology. Currently these screens utilize the fairly rare metal, indium. Due to its rarity, indium is responsible for a significant portion in the cost of current touch-screen displays. Fujifilm hopes to use its long history with silver to bring down the cost of these displays and grab a piece of the ever expanding touch-screen market.(via Bloomberg)
The 5 Point Cafe in Seattle bans Google Glass before it's even on sale
Pentax US has announced mail-in rebates on its 645D medium-format DSLR and select Limited series lenses when purchased with the K-5 IIs DSLR. Buyers of the 645D body will receive a free D-FA 55mm lens and $500 rebate on the purchase of the D-FA 25mm and HD 90mm lens. Those buying the K-5IIs camera body will receive a $250 rebate on the purchase of FA 31mm, 43mm and 77mm lenses. The rebates can be claimed from March 11th through March 31st 2013 and will be paid in the form of a Visa gift card.
Lowepro has announced the Flipside Sport 20L AW weather-resistant backpack for adventure-oriented photographers. Priced at $179.99, the Flipside 20L can hold two pro-level DSLRs, two lenses, a tripod/monopod and a flashgun. Made of lightweight materials and breathable padding, the bag features expandable pockets for treckking poles and 1.5L bottles. The Flipside is also available in two smaller sizes with Orange/Light Grey and Galaxy Blue/Light Grey color options.
BlackBerry's latest device will cost $199.99 with a 2-year contract.
The free iOS app takes simultaneous shots from both cameras to create one image.
Photojojo is now selling the ruggedized, waterproof case which was first shown at CES.
March 10
Photographer and imaging professional Jean Miele demonstrates how to combine images in Photoshop for seamless and natural-looking results. In this article he takes you through the basics of making Gradient tool adjustments to layer masks. Follow along with a simple tutorial that adds a dramatic sky to an interesting foreground.
March 8
British newspaper The Guardian is known for its editorial photography, but like all working pros, the staff photographers sometimes only get a few minutes to capture their subjects. In an article posted on the Guardian's Photo Blog, several of the paper's photographers share their tips for getting portraits in a hurry. Click through for some pictures, and a link to the article at guardian.co.uk.
The National Geographic Society continues to celebrate its 125th anniversary, and has launched a Tumblr blog called 'Found', which hosts a curated collection of photos from the National Geographic archives. The curation is done by Nat Geo's William Bonner who has been scanning through the company's extensive photography archive in the basement of its Washington, D.C. headquarters. Click through for more information and some fascinating photos.
Fast Camera, Cinemagraph, and more! We round up the top app updates of the week.
The Cinetics Cine System is a low-cost kit which enables videographers to achieve smooth panning and zoom shots as well as window and vehicle mounted footage. The system is built around Joby's popular Gorillapod Focus flexible tripod, and includes wheeled feet and the 'CineSquid' attachment allowing you to firmly mount a DSLR or small video camera to windows. We covered the Cine System last year in an article about interesting photography-related Kickstarter projects, and were really intrigued by its potential. Click through for a link to our review.
Camera Showdown compares images from different cameras to see what gear comes out on top.
Nissin's UK distributor Kenro has announced the Di700 flashgun and the PS 8 external battery pack for Canon, Nikon and Sony digital SLRs. With a guide number of 50 (at 200mm), the Di700 is equipped with an external power socket making it compatible with the PS 8. The battery pack offers a heat-resistant plastic body, a USB socket for charging and an LED indication lamp. The PS 8 is available for £165 (including VAT), while the Di700 will be available from April 2013 at a price to be confirmed. There is currently no information about US price and availability.
Android photographers should pack their virtual camera bag with these apps.
ACD Systems has extended the Raw support offered by its ACDSee Pro 6 and ACDSee 15 software packages. Version 6.2 of the Pro version and and ACDSee v15.2 gain support for an additional 19 cameras including the Canon EOS M, Nikon D5200, Sony SLT-A99V and the Olympus E-PL5. This update also includes performance improvements. Click through for more information.
Sigma US has announced the price and availability for its three latest 'Art' series prime lenses - the 19mm f/2.8 DN and 30mm f/2.8 DN for mirrorless cameras, and the 30mm f/1.4 for APS-C DSLRs. The DN lenses will be available for street price of $199 and the redesigned 30mm f/1.4 will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts for $499. All three will start shipping from the end of this month. No details were given about the 60mm f/2.8 lens also announced during the CP+ tradeshow.
Great landscape imagery doesn't have to involve travel to faraway locales. Photographer Carsten Krieger believes there's much to be gained by shooting close to home. Over the years he has challenged himself to shoot from the same vantage point; a task made feasible by choosing a scene only minutes from his home. Learn how lens choice and attention to seasonal patterns can lead to surprisingly varied imagery.
We have added DxOMark's Mobile Report to our review of the Nokia Lumia 920.
March 7
Our review of the Nokia Lumia 920's camera.
Facebook has announced an upcoming update to the way photos are presented in user News Feeds. More space will be devoted to images, displaying them more prominently on the page. This is the second redesign that focuses on bigger pictures since July last year. The result of the redesign is not too dissimilar to Google+. In addition, the News Feed can be filtered to view only photo-based updates. The company says it is rolling the changes out in the coming weeks to both desktop and mobile version.
Photo District News (PDN) recently released its annual list of 30, 'new and emerging photographers to watch'. The portfolios of these commercial, fashion and editorial photographers from around the world were selected from more than 300 submissions made by industry professionals. Their work will be published in the magazine's April issue, providing valuable exposure in the US for these photographers as they seek to establish careers in print and online media.
After months of flirting, Nokia is formally asking the social networking site to develop an app for Windows Phone 8.
The future looks bleak for Google’s photo service.
Sekonic's Lightmaster Pro L-478D and L-478DR touch-enabled lightmeters are now available as part a $512 special edition bundle that also includes X-Rite's ColorChecker Passport and White Balance Target. This offer is currently only available for US customers, who will save $50 compared to buying everything individually. The bundle also includes software to calibrate the meters and create exposure profiles for cameras. Current L-478D/DR owners can purchase the ColorChecker Passport and gray card for $49.
March 6
We downloaded and played with the photo apps that serious mobile photographers won’t touch.
A dispute between Canadian pro photographer, Barbara Ann and Ottawa radio station HOT 89.9 illustrates the problematic climate in which companies often turn to the Internet for free photographic images. Someone at the radio station found, via a Google search, a wedding photo that was then used as part of a Keynote slide presentation made to potential advertisers. When contacted by the photographer, the station removed the image but the two parties remain far apart on an agreement over compensation. (via PetaPixel)
Panasonic has announced firmware updates for its Lumix DMC-GH3 high-end movie-focused mirrorless camera, the 14-42mm and 45-175mm power zooms and the 45-150mm. The GH3 update will allow users to connect to a computer via Wi-Fi by entering the computer name (NetBIOS names for Mac). It also adds an MP4 1080p60, 28Mbps mode to video recording. Meanwhile the lens updates promise improved autofocus performance in AF Continuous mode when mounted on the GH3. The updates will be available at the end of this month.
Just posted: Our review of Canon's top-end standard zoom, the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM. Launched a year ago to replace its 10-year old predecessor, it's designed as a workhorse for professional photographers, and features a completely new optical design and improved, weathersealed build. In the latest of our lens reviews produced in collaboration with DxOMark, we take a look both lab and real-world performance. As usual, you can also compare it to a wide range of similar lenses using our unique lens data widget. Click through to see what we thought.
Fujifilm UK has given more details of the upcoming XF 55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS telephoto zoom for its X system cameras. Full specifications include an inner focusing system driven by no fewer than four linear stepper motors, and a promise of class-leading OIS with four to five stops correction, to go alongside the maximum aperture that's half a stop faster than typical SLR lenses covering the same range. The company says the lens will be available in May 2013. Meanwhile the promised XF 23mm F1.4 R and XF 27mm F2.8 R pancake are expected to appear in the middle of the year, and the XF 56mm F1.4 R and XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS at the end of 2013.
US photographic trade body PMA and dpreview.com are conducting a survey looking for the views of dedicated amateur photographers. The survey asks about your photographic habits, the features you'd like to see in cameras and your use and experience of photo sharing sites and printing services. We're aiming to get a clearer understanding of what committed non-professional photographers want from their cameras and related services and your answers may even result in those things getting a bit better - including dpreview.com. Responses will be discussed at this year's 6Sight conference. As an incentive, one lucky respondent will be sent a shiny new Apple iPad with Retina Display.
March 5
Nikon has posted a gallery of ten images and a video of the new Coolpix A DX-format compact camera. The camera features a 16MP APS-C sensor with no optical low-pass filter and a 28mm equivalent F2.8 prime lens. The images that Nikon has posted are taken by documentary photographer Doug Menuez in JPEG Fine (8-bit) mode. Click through for some images and a link to the full gallery.
An app for SmartBot uses facial recognition to take photos.
JackPod fits into the headphone output of any smartphone and attaches to a standard tripod screw.
We take a look at what the Google Play store, Apple App Store and Windows Store offer photographers.
We've had a chance to use the Nikon Coolpix A - the company's DX-format, fixed-lens compact. The Coolpix A features a 16MP APS-C sensor with no optical low-pass filter and a 28mm equivalent F2.8 prime lens. Nikon has done a lot of work to make the Coolpix A consistent with its DSLRs, from its interface to its compatibility with accessories. Click through for more.
We've just posted a hands-on preview of Nikon's latest small form-factor compact, the Coolpix P330. Externally almost identical to its predecessor the P310, the P330 features a larger 1/1.7" BSI-CMOS sensor and raw capture mode - two additions that should make it much more popular with enthusiasts, as well as putting it in direct competition with Canon's popular PowerShot S110. We've spent a little time with the P330, and for more details, images and specifications, click through to read our hands-on preview.
Nikon's AF-S Nikkor 80-400mm F4.5-5.6 G ED VR will be eagerly welcomed by many enthusiast and professional Nikon photographers who've been waiting for a replacement for its 12 year-old predecessor. The original 80-400mm was Nikon's first lens to offer vibration reduction but the intervening years have left it looking rather long in the tooth. The latest version boasts a new optical design, built-in SWM focus motor and much improved vibration reduction. In this short article, Barnaby Britton gives his opinion.
Nikon has unveiled its first DX-format compact, the Coolpix A, alongside the enthusiast-focused Coolpix P330. The Coolpix A fits a 16MP APS-C CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter behind a 28mm equivalent, F2.8 prime lens. The Coolpix P330, meanwhile, gains a 1/1.7" sensor and Raw-shooting capability, over its predecessor. The Coolpix A will cost around $1100/£1000/€1100, while the P330 will retail for around $380/£350/€380.
Nikon has launched the AF-S Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR, a redesigned version of the 12-year-old 80-400mm VR. The G version features an entirely new optical formulation, ring-type AF-S focus motor and revamped VR system capable of a claimed four stops of stabilization.
Nikon Europe has announced the Coolpix L320 CCD-based superzoom, while Nikon USA has announced the Coolpix S3500. The 16MP L320 features a 22.5–585mm equiv. zoom lens, 3.0" LCD, 720p HD recording and runs on two AA batteries. It will be available from the end of this month at a retail price of around £199.99. Nikon USA has announced the Coolpix S3500, revealed last week in Europe.
March 4
New York Times source claims Samsung's latest phone release is more software-focused.
Graphics tablet maker Wacom has announced on Facebook it will launch a mobile multi-touch tablet this summer. While it has not posted any details about this device, Wacom's social media post says it will include a pressure-sensitive pen, multi-touch options, an HD display and 'other valuable features that you haven’t seen in other tablets'.
Canon has developed a 35mm full-frame CMOS image sensor designed for low-light video capture. The 16:9 sensor features a 1920x1080 pixel array, meaning each pixel measures a huge 19 microns along each edge - 7.5 times larger than the ones in the EOS-1D X. The large pixels and low readout-noise circuitry allow the sensor to capture light around 10 times less bright than current CCDs used for astronomy. The sensor will first be shown in public at a security show in Japan.
Photographers reveal life inside the notoriously secretive country.
Jay L. Clendenin's attempt to make a red carpet feature turned into a lesson on time-lapse photography.
Phase One has unveiled the Wi-Fi enabled IQ260, IQ260 Achromatic and IQ280 medium format digital camera backs. The 60MP IQ260 and IQ260 Achromatic feature maximum shutter speeds of 1/10,000th of a second. The IQ260 Achromatic is a black-and-white version, with no color and IR filter. The cameras' wireless capabilities allow users to remotely capture and view images from iOS devices. All three backs feature 3.2" multi-touch rear screens with 1.15m dot resolution, and built-in accelerometers. They will be available from June 2013 at suggested retail prices starting from €29,990 /$39,990.
Are you catching the best mobile baby shots you can?
March 3
Last week Microsoft released the Windows Phone 8 version of its Photosynth app. We've tried it out for you.
March 1
Think Tank has announced three new accessories for their camera bag line-up. The Low Rider Strap with a split-pad design attaches a second bag to one's main rolling luggage and is available for $29.75. The Pro DSLR Battery Holder, priced at $17.50 accommodates two full-sized DSLR battery packs. A limited edition Pixel Pocket Rocket holds CF and QXD memory cards. Priced at $18.75, this memory card holder was manufactured in just one production run and will be unavailable once the stocks runs out. European prices and availability information to be confirmed.
Freelance photojournalist
Instagram concept camera gets closer to materializing in the marketplace.
Nikon has announced the launch of its Nikon School in UK. The company's education and training program that has been popular in the US for a decade will start in London from April 2013. It will offer photography courses, from beginner to advanced, to product specific courses and workshops. The company is currently offering £20 discount for online bookings. Click through for more information and links to the School's website.
Accessory maker showcases its case/lens combo at Mobile World Congress.
Just posted: Fujifilm X-E1 review. With a sensor and imaging pipeline that is identical to the X-Pro1's the X-E1 promises much of the X-Pro1's fun in a more compact and affordable package. We've spent the past few weeks using the X-E1 intensely with the full range of lenses now available for the X-system, and have prepared a full in-depth review. Following the release of raw support from Capture 1 and much improved raw support from Adobe, the X-E1 (and X-Pro 1) just got a whole lot more appealing, too. Click through for a link to our full review.
Video released by the electronics manufacturer shows how high-resolution device might benefit photographers.
PocketWizard has added a budget model to its camera/flash radio trigger line: the PlusX 'auto-sensing' transceiver, that automatically switches between transmit and receive as needed. The PlusX offers the ability to trigger cameras and flashes over 10 radio channels. It features a side-profile design, backlit display, an internal antenna, and a dual-function LED indicating connection status plus battery life. PocketWizard PlusX will be available towards the end of March at a suggested retail price of $99. There is currently no information about the European price and availability.
| Sunset at the lake - 2 by Murat ÜNSAL from Water and sunset.. | Waiting by Konstantine 2013 from Waiting | Crown of Louis XIV by Bibix from Royal crest | Grand Canyon by CO Boy from Landscape Photo in Monochrome |