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David J Nightingale started this week's photoblog of the week, Chromasia back in 2003 - he hasn't looked back and has created one of the most well renowned photoblogs currently operating.
Take a look at David's thumbnail page to get a quick overview of the kind of images he takes. He uses colors and composition brilliantly and his images are full of all kinds of points of interest. Also check out his Top 10 images to get a feel for some of his best work.
Shots on Chromasia are generated mainly by David's Canon Powershot G5 and the photoblog uses Moveable Type. Prints are available for purchase.
Chromasia is a great site that is worth a visit - it's our pleasure to name it as our photoblog of the week.
The winners of the World Press Photo Awards have been announced. Some of the photos are pretty amazing, especially those from war zones and definitely worth a visit.
Digital Photography Blog wishes to thank its loyal readership for yet another record breaking month of traffic. As can be seen by the graph (left - click to enlarge) we've enjoyed 96,000 unique visitors this month and are expecting even bigger and better things in June.
As a result of this continued growth we continue to look for the support and involvement of individuals and companies to share the journey with us.
Opportunities for Individuals - As always opportunities exist for readers to submit Reviews of Digital Cameras, Printers, Scanners, Camera Phones, Photo Editing Software or any other digital imaging product. We'll give you credit for your work and will link up to your own photoblog or site if you have one. Submit your reviews, articles and tips via our Contact form.
Opportunities for Companies - Share our growth by becoming an advertising partner with Digital Photography Blog. Whilst some spaces are sold out there are currently spots in a variety of positions on our site including the banner position and as Newsletter Sponsor. Advertise your company, photoblog, product or service with us for as little as 80 cents a day! Get more information on these opportunities
Thanks again for your support.
Pretec have just announced what they are calling the 'World's fastest Flash Memory Card'. Here is their press release.
Press Release
Taipei, Taiwan, June 1, 2004 – Pretec Electronics Corp., the 2nd company in the world offering CompactFlash memory card (CF) card since 1995, is demonstrating the world’s first MMC 4.0 flash memory card with Read speed about 150X (22.5MB/s) and Write speed greater than 120X (18MB/s), which is the highest speed small form factor flash memory card in the world today, at COMPUTEX TAIPEI Pretec Booth Hall 4, # 101A here at World Trade Center.
Compatible with most Secure Digital (SD) slots used by mobile phones, digital cameras, and other portable digital devices, MMC (MultiMediaCard) is one of the most popular memory cards in the world today. Version 4.0 is the most recent release of MMCA (http://www.mmca.org/), with maximum transfer speed up to 20 times of today’s MMC, and 4 times faster than today’s SD card without any royalties for the high-speed interface. The speed of Pretec MMC 4.0 is about 200% faster than the fastest SD card available in the market and about 800% faster than Pretec MMC (V3.2) 1GB, which is the fastest and highest capacity in the market today.
Support dual-voltage operation of 3V/1.8V, Pretec MMC 4.0 is the lowest power consumption flash memory card in the world when operated at 1.8V. Pretec also offers Reduced-Size (RS) MMC 4.0, measured at only 18mmX24mmX1.4mm, which is 44% smaller area than SD card and 62% smaller volume than SD card, Pretec RS-MMC 4.0 is one of the smallest flash memory card in the world.
Last week I visited Sydney for an afternoon to attend ‘Photo Imaging World’ – Asia/Pacific’s annual trade show where all the leading photographic manufacturers put their latest technologies on show.
The show was the biggest of its kind in Australia with over 100 exhibitors ranging from the powerhouse manufactures of Canon, Sony, Kodak and Olympus through to the small photographic retail outlets and photographers.
Whilst there were few new product announcements made at this years show (manufacturers tend to focus on PMA Los Angeles in February for such moments) there were a number of interesting trends that we noticed.
The Word is Digital
It goes without saying but Digital Photography has overtaken Film Technologies in so many ways. At this year’s show all the major manufacturers give almost their complete exhibitions over to Digital Cameras and their related accessories. Even Fujifilm and Kodak’s areas were dominated by digital cameras.
The Megapixel Race is not the Main Event
In chatting with a very helpful representative at Sony I began to realise that the ‘Megapixel Race’ of building digital cameras with bigger and bigger megapixel capacity is becoming less of a priority for at least some manufacturers. This year I noticed an increased focus upon personal printing (all the major players are releasing personal printing units and equipping their cameras with direct printing functions), Editing Software and Image Storage technologies.
Sony’s rep told me that now that there is a new wave of requests coming in from their customers that focus on the question ‘what do we do with our images?’ This makes sense as more and more families and individuals now own a quality digital camera and are beginning to turn their attention to preserving and displaying their prized photos. As a result we can expect to see a lot more products released in the next year like Sony's HDPS-M1 which was on display at the show.
Ho Hum
Whilst there are some amazing digital cameras on the market I came away from the show feeling a little underwhelmed by what was on show in terms of marketing and displays. Of the 100 exhibitors only 1 stood out as doing anything different. Crumpler Bags was the only ‘edgy’ booth – they surrounded themselves in 44 gallon drums, allowed visitors to write comments on their black board walls and presented one and all with stickers, temporary tattoos and the worlds smallest box of matches (all adorned with Crumplers logo). Other exhibitors stuck with more of a minimalist approach with the exception of Sony who attempted do something different with an area where an indigenous artist painted in the middle of their exhibition.
Evolution vs Innovation
Whilst I know that the major focus of a show like Photo Imaging World is the technology, I came away from it wondering if the ‘ho hum’ nature of displays is actually a reflection of the state of the industry as a whole. Is anyone really doing anything different? Most of the new cameras released in the last year look and operate remarkably similarly to one another. Yes we are getting more megapixels, longer lenses, bigger memory cards and more automatic shooting modes – but where will the next ‘wow’ come from? I get the feeling that we’re in ‘evolution mode’ and not ‘innovation mode.’ Maybe Apple should start making digital cameras – we need an I-cam to shake things up.
Best In Show
Perhaps I’m being a little cynical, I did have a good time really, I just want to see the industry continue to move forward as I know it can. Lets get a little more positive with my ‘Best in Show’ Awards ceremony. Here are my stand out exhibitors:
Overall PIW was well worth the visit to Sydney (a great city to spend a few days anyway). The main reason I went was to meet and network with some key people from the manufacturers of Australia’s most popular digital cameras. We’re hoping that out of the relationships established that Digital Photography Blog will continue to grow in providing you our readers with quality Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips.
The digital camera revolution need not snap your nerve gives a good snapshot of some of the issues one needs to consider when choosing which digital camera is best for them.
Check out the rest of our growing collection of tips on how to choose a digital camera.
Colour Balance Aids for Photoshop is a useful tutorial that examines the whole issue of Colour when working in Photoshop.
Press Release
Amsterdam, The Netherlands. May 28th 2004: 07:00 CET: Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of a brand new photographic accessory, the AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II - the first teleconverter to offer a 1.7x lens focal length magnification, but with exposure compensation kept to just 1.5 stops. Designed exclusively for use with AF-S and AF-I Nikkor lenses, the AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II extends the Nikon teleconverter line-up to three teleconverters offering a choice of 1.4x, 1.7x, and 2.0x focal length magnification factors.
With dimensions of just 66 x 31.5mm (2.6 x 1.2 in.) and a weight of only 250g (approx.) the AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II is compact and lightweight to use. Attached to a camera body, for example, with the latest AF-S VR Nikkor 200mm f/2G IF-ED lens, the combination of lens and teleconverter offers the photographer an impressive focal length of 340mm with a maximum aperture of just f/3.3. On all of Nikon's digital SLRs an approximate 135-picture angle equivalent to 510mm is possible, whilst maintaining the same maximum aperture of f/3.3.
The AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II also has the ability to communicate with the signals from most* lenses. Furthermore, it is fully compatible with Nikon's exclusive Vibration Reduction (VR), incorporates glass elements that conform to forthcoming environmental standards and is housed in a design that is consistent with the current TC-14E II and TC-20E II.
AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II Major Features
- Compatible with AF-S and AF-I lenses
- Compact size, 31.5mm thick and just 7mm thicker than the TC-14E II
- Communicates with the signals from most lenses
- Supports Nikon VR function
- Minimal exposure compensation of just 1.5 stops
- Environmentally friendly glass
- Design consistent with current TC-14E II and TC-20E II teleconverters
*Availability might vary by region and/or dealer. Your dealer is best placed to update local availability or otherwise your national Nikon organization.
The Nikkor 200 mm F2.0 AF-S VR G lens is a fast prime telephoto lens with Vibration Reduction capability for when light gets low.
Press Release
Nikon announces world's first f/2 aperture SLR lens to
feature Vibration Reduction
AF-S VR Nikkor 200mm f/2G IF-ED
Amsterdam May 28th 2004: 07:00 CET: Nikon Europe today announces the introduction of a revolutionary new SLR photographic lens, the first* f/2 aperture lens to feature Vibration Reduction (VR) technology.
The AF-S VR Nikkor 200mm f/2G IF-ED heralds an exciting breakthrough in photographic performance to extend shooting opportunities beyond the limits of currently available photographic lenses.
Vibration Reduction, maximum aperture of f/2
The unique combination of an f/2 maximum aperture combined with Vibration Reduction enables new photographic opportunities in light conditions previously impossible to achieve without resorting to grainy high-speed film or noise-prone digital ISO sensitivity settings. The shallow depth of field created by the wide f/2 aperture offers a unique appearance to pictures combined with a pleasing background blur and bright viewfinder image and will find favour with photographers seeking to freeze movement with fast shutter speeds in low lighting conditions.
Vibration Reduction
When light levels get really low, VR can be activated to enable sharp available-light images of still subjects or when using flash. The AF-S VR Nikkor 200mm f/2G IF-ED is the fifth* Nikkor lens to incorporate Nikon's renowned Vibration Reduction system. The system comprises of a suspended lens element that is positioned according to data from gyroscopic sensors and that compensates for accidental vertical or horizontal movement during slow shutter exposures. The Nikon VR system can also detect deliberate movement - such as panning - automatically. Exposures with three or more stops slower shutter speed compared to a lens without VR can be achieved depending on shooting conditions and the technique of individual photographers.
This VR performance can be applied in a choice of two modes to suit shooting conditions. Normal mode is ideal for common shooting conditions, including panning or when using a tripod, whilst Active mode is designed to compensate for specific shake caused when shooting at slow shutter speeds from moving platforms such as cars or aircraft.
New teleconverter for Magnified flexibility
Shorter and narrower than it's manual focus predecessor (the Nikkor 200 f/2 IF-ED), the new lens is also 14mm shorter than the AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED. These compact dimensions deliver real benefits when used in combination with Nikon teleconverters like the TC-14EII and TC-20E II.
A brand new TC-17EII 1.7x teleconverter is also introduced (sold separately) to enhance the range of focal length options to factors of 1.4x, 2.0x and now, 1.7x respectively.
The use of such teleconverters with a wide aperture lens is an ideal way of adding extra focal length versatility without the expense and weight of additional lenses. Indeed, just by carrying the AF-S VR Nikkor 200mm f/2G IF-ED and the aforementioned three teleconverters, photographers can gain access to a range of focal lengths that would normally require four different lenses.
Super ED glass
The new lens also features a brand new development in optical glass manufacture, a Super ED glass element.
As its name suggests, Super ED glass offers increased contrast and reduced levels of aberrations over current ED glass, so important when shooting at wide apertures. The AF-S VR Nikkor 200mm f/2.G IF-ED incorporates a total of four ED elements, the most currently available in a Nikkor SLR lens.
Speaking about this important new SLR lens development Robert Cristina, Marketing Executive, SLR Systems, Nikon Europe said: "The new AF-S VR 200mm f/2 lens offers a unique combination of exceptionally sharp results with a bright viewfinder image and attractive background blurring (bokeh) for added impact. VR enables exposures in lighting conditions beyond the limits of previous lenses, with the risk of hand-shake kept to a minimum". He added; "The f/2 aperture also comes into it's own when adding teleconverters to bring substantial weight benefits for the busy traveling photographer. The new TC-17E teleconverter magnifies focal lengths by 1.7x but with just a 1.5 stop exposure adjustment and yet still maintains full Auto focus and VR functions".
*As of June 2004.
AF-S VR Nikkor 200mm f/2G IF-ED Major Features
Super ED and ED lens elements for a low refractive index and reduced dispersion
- Dual Mode Vibration Reduction
- Normal mode for general situations, panning and using a tripod
- Active mode for shooting from a moving platform (cars, aeroplanes)
- SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for quiet, high-speed auto-focus
- Exclusive M/A option for instant manual focus override during AF
- AF Switch enables easy selection of settings:
- AF-L allows a desired focal length to be preset
- AF-ON allows fine manual manipulation
- Focus Preset reverts the lens to the preset focal length
- Meniscus protective glass
- Rubber mount gasket, tough magnesium construction
- Focuses down to just 1.9m
- Eco-Glass: environmentally friendly glass manufacturing processes
The Nikon Coolpix 4100 is a 4.0 megapixel camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens, 1.6 inch LCD and 14.5 megabytes internal memory allowing users to shoot pictures even without an SD memory card inserted. It measures 88 x 65 x 38mm and weighs 140g (without battery or card).
The Nikon Coolpix 4100 is based on the successful Coolpix 2200 and 3200 cameras so has a proven track record and should please. It will be released in the Northern Hemisphere summer and is priced at around $299.95 (US).
UK/European Readers buy the Nikon Coolpix 4100
PC Mag reviews the Nikon Coolpix 4100 and writes - 'In our testing, the Coolpix 4100 scored a mediocre (for a 4MP camera) 1,050 resolvable lines and average pixel transition ratio of 2.7 percent. Our simulated daylight shot had adequate exposure, though the foreground was a bit underexposed. The image was also a little soft around the perimeter, with warm colors. Our flash shot had good detail, but the illumination fell short, indicating a weak flash, and colors were decidedly cool. Both the daylight and flash shots showed some grain in the shadows.'
For more specifications and reviews of the Nikon Coolpix 4100 read the following press release from Nikon or check out:
- Imaging Resource - Nikon Coolpix 4100
- DP Review - Nikon Coolpix 4100
Press Release
The 4.0 effective megapixel compact digital camera that captures quality images with ease
Amsterdam - May 28, 2004 (8:00 CET) Nikon, a world leader in film and digital cameras, today announced the introduction of the COOLPIX4100 (www.europe-nikon.com), a new consumer digital camera with slim dimensions, 4.0-megapixel performance and surprisingly simple operation.
Building on the success and capabilities of the COOLPIX 3200 and featuring the same stylish grip, the COOLPIX 4100 feels comfortable in the hand and makes operation easy through its enhanced Graphic User Interface (GUI), which displays easy-to-see menus on a bright 1.6-in. TFT LCD monitor. Furthermore, all controls are placed on the back of the camera for convenient access.
The COOLPIX 4100 even has the advantage of 14.5MB of internal memory. This allows the user to shoot pictures when there's no SD memory card inserted, or copy shots between the internal memory and SD cards as desired.
Like all other models in the popular COOLPIX series, the E4100 has been designed to make things simple for the user and to allow increased versatility without compromising the fun of the moment. In line with this it features 15 handy Scene modes, four of which offer a Scene Assistance function. These do away with most of the preparation when shooting in common situations, achieving quality results when taking shots that range from sunsets to fireworks, to portraits. Users can also enjoy recording movies with sound, preserving special moments in a much more expressive way.
With a high-quality 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens and 4x digital zoom, the COOLPIX 4100 gives users a high degree of control over the way they compose their shots. The COOLPIX 4100 makes it easy for the user to zoom in close on a single subject or person, zoom out to take group shots, and even use the handy Macro mode which can be used as close as 4cm so that small objects can fill the frame. However you compose, you'll find the COOLPIX 4100 achieves vibrant colors, faithful contrast, and impressive clarity - all made possible by Nikon's advanced image processing algorithms.
A range of other features make shooting more fun. Five Color options comprising Standard color, Vivid color, Black-and-white, Sepia, and Cyanotype can be used to achieve creative results. A handy AF illumination assist function makes it easier to achieve sharp focus when shooting in poor light. A useful Blur Warning function alerts users of shots compromised by camera shake, giving them the choice to record them or not. The COOLPIX 4100 is also compatible with a wide range of rechargeable and disposable batteries, including alkaline batteries, which are easy to find. There's even an AC adapter too, which is available as a handy option.
Sales release schedule: This camera is scheduled for release in Summer 2004.
Note: Specifications, design, product name and standard accessories may differ by country or area.
Nikon COOLPIX 4100 Feature Highlights
Exceptionally easy to use
With slim dimensions, a surprisingly light weight and the same stylish grip as the popular COOLPIX 3200, the COOLPIX 4100 enables comfortable shooting with a natural feel. To allow easy access to the variety of convenient functions, all mode dials and controls are located on the back of the camera, while a larger, clear LCD (1.6-in., 80,000-dot TFT) makes for easy composition and pleasing playback.
Achieves satisfying results
With 4.0 effective megapixels and a 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens, the COOLPIX 4100 blends high-level clarity with compositional freedom. It also offers the advantage of an AF assist illuminator, which makes it so much easier to obtain sharp focus when shooting subjects in low light.
Further convenience
With 14.5MB of internal storage memory, the COOLPIX 4100 allows the user to take shots at any time, even when not carrying compatible memory media, and enables the copying of shots between the internal memory and SD cards as desired. It's also compatible with a wide range of rechargeable and disposable batteries, including alkaline batteries which can be easily purchased virtually anywhere. Furthermore, a waterproof case is available as an exciting option*, allowing the user to push the limits of their digital photography by shooting in the rain, in the snow, or even when scuba diving to depths of up to 40m.
* Not available in some countries and areas.
Nikon COOLPIX 4100 Major Features
4.0 effective megapixels
3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens with 5.8-17.4mm coverage (equivalent to 35-105mm in 35mm [135] camera format); digital zoom up to 4x magnification (for a total of 12x when combined with optical zoom)
AF assist illuminator makes focus easier when shooting in darker situations
Red-eye reduction makes use of the LED lamp prior to the firing of the flash
Macro shooting capability as close as 4cm (1.6 in.)
Simple buttons and easy-to-see user interface enable easy operation, even for first time digital users.
14.5MB of internal memory enables the storage of images without a memory card, while two-way copying of stored images can be done between SD memory cards and the internal memory
Nikon’s Best Shot Selector (BSS) takes a series of shots, then automatically picks and records the clearest one
15 Scene Modes including four with Scene Assistance function — Scene Modes with Scene Assistance function (Portrait, Night portrait, Landscape, Sports); Other Scene Modes (Sunset, Close up, Museum, Panorama assist, Beach/Snow, Fireworks show, Back light, Party/Indoor, Copy, Dusk/Dawn, and Night landscape)
Three Movie Modes with sound, including TV movie (640) at 15fps, Small size (320) at 15fps, and Smaller size (160) at 15fps – recordable until SD memory card is full
Playback options include Full frame playback, Zoom to 10x maximum with photo trimming, and a Small picture function
Noise Reduction automatically reduces noise to ensure faithful color reproduction in some scene modes
Plug-and-play USB interface for smooth connection to a computer
Date Counter imprints the number of days to, or time since a specified occasion
5 Color Options, including Standard color, Vivid color, Black-and-white, Sepia, and Cyanotype
Blur Warning alerts the user of shots compromised by camera shake, giving them the choice to record them or not
1.6-in., 80,000-dot TFT LCD monitor with brightness adjustment
Can be powered by Two rechargeable Nikon EN-MH1 NiMH batteries, One CRV3 lithium battery, Two LR6 (AA) alkaline batteries, Two FR6/L91 (AA) lithium batteries, EH-62B AC adapter, Two ZR6 (AA) nickel manganese batteries/ nickel batteries
Long battery life of approx. 260 shots per charge with two EN-MH1 batteries when using the LCD monitor
Comes with Strap, USB cable, Audio Video cable, Rechargeable battery (EN-MH1)*, Battery charger MH-71*, PictureProject CD-ROM, Quick start Guide, and Instruction manual
Optional accessories include Ni-MH Rechargeable battery EN-MH1-B2, Battery charger MH-71, AC adapter EH-62B, Soft case, SD memory card, and Waterproof case WP-CP1**
Sleep mode activates when no change in brightness is detected for an extended period, saving energy sooner than the Auto Power Off function
Offers direct print capability through support of PictBridge ***
Language menu allows selection of English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, or Korean for menu displays
Time zone function can be easily set, making the COOLPIX 4100 an ideal travel companion
* Ships with two LR6 (AA) alkaline batteries in some countries and areas.
** Not available in some countries and areas.
*** WHEN USED WITH PICTBRIDGE COMPATIBLE PRINTERS.
I thought the 8 megapixel cameras that I've been lusting after were pretty amazing but the 500 megapixel digital camera used in this project leaves them for dead!
You'd definitely need some amazing flash memory card to take this one on holidays - not to mention a forklift for the 4 meter telescope that it attaches to.
San Disk has just announced that next month it will start shipping a Secure Digital card combining flash memory and WiFi connectivity. Initially they will be used in PDAs that only have one expansion slot to enable them to have both WiFi and SD capabilities at once. This technology is likely to be used in digital cameras in the future. Source
The New York Times reports on a strange but interesting digital imaging project unveiled at America's CeBIT
'An odd-looking van sprouts 13 digital cameras that its builder wants to use to photograph 50 million buildings in the country while driving, taking pictures every 15 feet.
The van's drive-by snaps would be matched against GPS satellite positioning data and aerial photographs in a database. Police, insurance agents and others then could call up overhead and street-level views simply by entering an address.' Source - Van Could Take Photographs While Driving
Check out this miniature wireless digital camera from Given Imaging. It is a tiny camera encased in a swallow-able pill that transmits data back to a data recorder worn on a belt. What happens to it then you don't want to know - but a very cool idea that is helping the in the fight against bowel diseases.
'The M2A capsule (photo), consists of a microchip camera and light-emitting diodes that act as a flash, as well as Zarlink's RF transmitter chip, antenna and two silver- oxide batteries. It is swallowed by the patient and then passes naturally through the digestive tract. The camera's images are relayed by the RF transmitter to a data recorder in a belt worn by the patient, who is free to continue with normal daily activities throughout the exam.' Source - Daily Wireless via Engaget.
News from Reuters just in that Flash Memory Prices are Falling as a showdown between Samsung Electronics Co Ltd and Toshiba Corp.
'South Korea (news - web sites)'s Samsung said the cuts, which have more than halved prices for some flash chips since October, are a long planned effort to grow the market.
But industry experts said Samsung and Japan's Toshiba are taking a pre-emptive strike against companies including Infineon Technologies AG, Hynix Semiconductor Inc and Micron Technology Inc that are trying to break the virtual duopoly.'
DP review reports that Sony Japan have announced their Sony HDPS-M1 - a 40 GB hard disk portable photo storage unit. Its small (measures just 135 x 92 mm (5.3 x 3.5 in) and is 30 mm (1.1 in) thick, it weighs just 300 g), highly portable and will be very useful in the mass storing/backup of images.
It is compatible with both Sony's Memory Stick range and Compact Flash cards.
I was lucky enough to have a look at this little beauty on the weekend at Sydney's Photo Imaging World - the Sony rep who showed it to me could hardly contain his smile.
He believed that products like this one will be in the next wave of new products released from the major manufacturers who have been focussing largely to this point upon developing high megapixel digital cameras. The feedback that they've been getting from early adopter digital photographer consumers is that they now need products to help them manage their vast quantities of digital images which are often very large files. This is Sony's response.
Read a review of the Sony HDPS-M1 at Gadgeteer.
Japanese Consumer Electronics company Funai and have just announced announced a relationship with Eastman Kodak whereby Funai will manufacture Kodak's Easyshare Digital Still Cameras. Following is the press release announcing this news.
Press Release from Funai
Funai and Kodak Agree to Manufacture Kodak Digital Still Cameras in Funai China Facility
Funai Electric Co., Ltd (President and CEO: Tetsuro Funai) and Eastman Kodak Company (New York, USA. Chairman and CEO: Dan Carp) have agreed to a relationship where Funai will manufacture Kodak Digital Still Cameras in Funai's China facility. Manufacturing started in April 2004. Funai is a licensee under Kodak's Digital Camera Intellectual Property Licensing Program.
The relationship combines Kodak's planning, development and marketing expertise with Funai's mass production technology and cost-competitiveness with the aim of achieving a leading edge in technology and cost-effective manufacturing in the fast-growing Digital Still Camera market.
The agreement enables Funai to move into the Digital Still Camera market along with its current mainstay products like DVD, TV, VCR and printers, and enables Kodak to increase manufacturing capacity of its EasyShare brand of digital cameras, the fastest growing brand of digital still cameras worldwide, according to a recent global IDC report.
PRESS RELEASE: Nikon's New DS-5Mc-U1 Digital Photomicrographic Camera System Enables Low Light Imagery Application Support
Integrated System Lets Microscopes and Digital Cameras to Work Seamlessly in Scientific Research Environments
MELVILLE, N.Y., May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Nikon Instruments Inc., a leader in the development of advanced optical microscopy, today unveiled a digital color cooled camera head, the DS-5Mc, and the DS-U1 camera control unit, featuring superior microscope control, digital viewing and capture of images in standard and low-light applications including brightfield, fluorescence and darkfield to the Nikon Digital Sight Imaging System.
"The Digital Sight family of imaging products is another example of Nikon's continuing focus on advancing microscopy through innovation," said Stan Schwartz, Vice President, Microscopy Product and Marketing Division, Nikon Instruments. "This system is the first convertible photomicrographic digital camera and leads the way in the conception and realization of a full range of versatile all-in-one microscope products. Image capturing has become a priority in microscopy, and the demand for quality combined with multiple functions increases every day. The DS-5Mc-U1 provides researchers with the preeminent technology available for digital imaging and capture."
Researchers now have an integrated imaging system seamlessly connecting microscopy and digital photography under intelligent software control. The new camera head and U1 control unit expands the functionality and versatility of the original five mega-pixel network-ready DS-5M-L1, resulting in a versatile system easily configurable for demanding user requirements. The system cost-effectively delivers the ability to capture extremely precise, detailed images under demanding lighting conditions.
The DS-U1 camera control unit is equipped with USB 2.0 as its interface for seamless control and quick image streaming and capture. Installation is fast and easy requiring one USB 2.0 connection to a computer or laptop, and is easily scalable by adding Nikon's ACT-2U image application software that provides a convenient GUI for efficient image capturing and analysis as well as simple reconfiguration control. A TWAIN software interface is also available. The DS-L1 camera control unit is a self-contained, stand-alone system including an integrated viewing monitor with the ability to connect to computer network systems via its LAN interface.
The DS-5Mc color cooled camera head employs a 2/3 inch, five million pixel color matrix CCD for high definition specimen images of up to 2560 x 1920 pixel images and extraordinary color reproduction. Observers can easily detect details of minute structure and color differences and take advantage of DS-5Mc's long exposure time capability (up to 600 seconds) for low light applications and minimizes thermal background noise. With a Peltier thermoelectric cooling device, the CCD can maintain its temperature to as low as 20 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature.
The DS-5M camera head has the same specification, but without Peltier cooling and is limited to 6 second exposures. All four components consisting of the two camera control units and the two camera heads are interchangeable to meet the requirements of any microscope documentation application.
Nikon's ACT-2U Windows PC application software for the DS-U1 system gives users the opportunity to establish custom settings and also provides tool functions that allow for count-marking and range measurement between two points on a specimen. Nikon enables pre-programmed image modes to achieve optimum results in every observation method without spending time to re-set the camera for every photo session. In addition, it also features thumbnail display, allows for text and pen input and offers researchers the ability to superimpose saved images over a live image allowing for easy comparison.
About Nikon Instruments Inc.
Nikon Instruments Inc., is a global leader in the development of advanced optical technology. Its product line includes microscopy equipment, digital imaging, precision measuring and semiconductor wafer-handling equipment. Nikon is committed to providing technologically advanced instruments that offer optimal versatility, performance and productivity. Nikon combines state- of-the-art capabilities with innovative designs to produce optically superior, ergonomically friendly products for cutting-edge scientific research, medical and industrial applications. For more information visit the Nikon website at http://www.nikonusa.com. Product related inquiries can be directed to Nikon Instruments at 800-52-NIKON
DP Review writes that Casio Japan have just released the Casio EWC-40 Underwater Housing for their Casio Exilim EX-Z40 and EX-Z30 digital cameras.
The Casio EWC-40 will enable these cameras to be used to a depth of 40 meters and allows all the normal functions to be used.
It will be in stores in early July for approximately $190.
Minox Press Release
MINOX DD100 - Compact digital camera with stainless steel look
The MINOX DD100 is a true companion for every occasion and comes in a distinguished stainless steel look. But this small, flat camera features more than an excellent design. All the sophisticated controls you need are ready at your command.
With a resolution of 3 million pixels and 4x digital zoom, excellent imaging results are guaranteed. Despite ultra compact dimensions of just 94 mm x 56 mm x 26 mm the new MINOX DD100 features a 1.6" TFT colour monitor which allows instant assessment of the image during and after the shot. A fast picture sequence and minimal release time lag capture spontaneous snap shots in every situation. The integrated flash switches on automatically when needed and guarantees perfect illumination, even in critical light conditions.
Besides the internal memory, SD cards with up to 128 MB storage capacity can be applied. This offers photographers more flexibility and the opportunity to record a large number of images.
Using the USB cable, which comes with the camera, the pictures can be transferred to a computer with the greatest of ease and at high speed. The photos can then be edited on the PC using any commercially available image processing software and directly sent on to others. The scope of delivery also includes 2 AAA batteries, ever-ready case, wrist strap, CD-ROM and instruction manual.
Technical Data MINOX DD100
Image resolution: 3.0 Megapixel (2.1 MP hardware resolution)
1600 x 1200 Pixel / 2048 x 1536 (interpolated) / Webcam/Video: 320 x 240 Pixel
Image sensor: CMOS
Image memory: (16 MB internal memory)
without compression: 14 images in a resolution of 1600 x 1200 Pixel
low compression: 30 images in a resolution of 1600 x 1200 Pixel
high compression: 60 images in a resolution of 1600 x 1200 Pixel
interpolated (3.0 MP): 20 images in a resolution of 2048 x 1536 Pixel
Colour: 24-bit RGB (8 bit x 3 colours)
Lens: 5 element glass lens with integrated infrared filter
Apertures: f / 2.8
Focal length: 9,6 mm, corresponds to 48 mm with 35 mm format
Focusing range: 1.5 m to infinity
Exposure: automatic
Exposure compensation: Steps -1.8 to +1.8 (steps of 0.3)
Shutter speed: automatic
Digital zoom: 4x digital zoom in capture mode, additional zoom in playback mode
White balance: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Lamp, Tungsten, Night
Display: 1,6" colour TFT
Flash: integrated
Flash programme: Auto, On, Off
Self timer: 10 sec.
File format: JPEG, AVI
Memory internal memory: 16 MB; external memory: SD card up to 128 MB
Language support: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese (T + S), Japanese
System requirement: Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP; Mac OS 8.6 or later
Connectors: USB-Port, SD card slot
Power: 2 batteries (size AAA/LR03) or rechargeable batteries (only NiMH-types!); via USB
Dimensions: 94 x 56 x 26 mm / 3.7 x 2.2 x 1.0 inches
Weight approx: 100 g / 3.5 oz.
Scope of delivery: ever-ready case, wrist strap, USB-cable, CD-ROM, 2 AAA-batteries, manual
Order number: 60616
http://www.minox.com
SanDisk Press Release
SanDisk Introduces World's First 6-in-1 PC Card Adapter; Easy Solution to Transfer Images, Music and Data from Flash Memory
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 24, 2004-- SanDisk Corporation (Nasdaq:SNDK) today introduced the world's first 6-in-1 PC Card Adapter, giving notebook computer users the largest number of card formats for moving files to and from flash memory devices such as digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile phones. The announcement was made at the Digital Experience media conference in New York.
The new adapter offers easy, plug-and-play compatibility with no software needed, and works with six different memory card formats: SD, MultiMediaCard, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD-Picture Card, and SmartMedia. To read a card, users simply insert it into the adapter, and then slide the adapter into any computer with a PC Card slot. In this mode, the adapter works like a removable hard drive.
Protected by a rugged, stainless steel cover, the adapter replaces SanDisk's 4-in-1 Adapter but will sell at a comparable suggested retail price of $29.99. Units are planned for shipment to stores by early summer.
Worldwide notebook shipments grew by 27.4 percent last year and represent more than one-fourth of all PCs sold, according to IDC's Worldwide Quarterly PC Tracker. IDC, a market research company headquartered in Framingham, Massachusetts, predicts that unit sales, which were 39.5 million in 2003, will increase by 16 percent or higher each year for the next two years.
With this newest product, SanDisk continues to expand its family of adapters and readers. The company offers four single-slot readers, a CF PC Card Adapter, and a multi-card device called the ImageMate(R) 8-in-1 Card Reader/Writer, which connects to a computer's high-speed USB 2.0 port and reads eight formats including CompactFlash. Suggested retail prices in the line range from $9.99 to $34.99.
SanDisk, the world's largest supplier of flash memory data storage card products, designs, manufactures and markets industry-standard, solid-state data, digital imaging and audio storage products using its patented, high-density flash memory and controller technology. SanDisk is based in Sunnyvale, CA.
SanDisk's web site/home page address: http://www.sandisk.com
SanDisk and ImageMate are trademarks of SanDisk Corporation, registered in the U.S. and other countries.
SmartMedia and SD are trademarks of Toshiba Corporation. MultiMediaCard is a trademark of the MultiMediaCard Association. Memory Stick and Memory Stick PRO are trademarks of Sony Corporation. XD is a trademark of Fuji Foto Film. Other brand names are for identification purposes only and may be the trademarks of their respective holders.
DP Review announces the new Che-ez! Foxz2 the 2 megapixel, CMOS, fixed focal length compact digital camera. It is only 9.8 mm in width and features a 1.5 inch LCD.
Check out the official Che-ez! Foxz2 site.
Jinky Art is our Photoblog of the Week. Barb and Simon, who live in Canberra Australia, started this fun photoblog about a year ago (or so it seems from their archives) to reflect their family’s daily life.
‘We started taking pics for fun in May 2003, and over time this site has seen many facelifts. With that our direction has changed, our passion has shifted, and Jinky is now taking a photography course part time at uni. ..and loving it! This blog has brought about a really great journey for us. Thanks so much for visiting.’
Jinky Art’s images do reflect their life as a family in Australia with some beautiful shots of children as well as some beautiful photos of life in rural Australia.
They have been recognized as an exceptional blog in a variety of Australian newspapers.
Jinky Art use both film and digital cameras in their work – their digital camera of choice is the Canon 10d. They have an online shop where they sell cards, prints and calendars. They have also made their images available to be used free as e-cards by simply clicking on a link at the bottom of each image and filling in your details.
I love Jinky Art as a photoblog because their images evoke emotion, give a unique insight into family life in Australian culture and their use of photoblogging technology is fresh, beautifully designed and innovative. Jinky Art is well worth a look.
Ok the server is swapped over - we're still ironing out some bugs now. We are aware of a number of issues with the site and are working to resolve them asap. If you find anything wrong with any aspect of our site please don't hesitate to leave a comment below. Hopefully we'll be back to normal shortly. Thanks again for your patience.
As a result of the increased readership of this site in recent months we will tonight be moving it across to a new, faster, bigger and cheaper server. It is our hope that this will make viewing the content here a more pleasurable and productive process. However for the next 24 hours it means that readers accessing this site may experience outages and slower than normal loading of pages. We apologize for this inconvenience and hope to have the site transferred to its new home as quickly as possible. We appreciate your patience over the next 24 hours.
Digitimes has an interesting article that hints at what is to come from Panasonic in the way of 6 megapixel digital cameras with MPEG4 capabilities.
'Ability Enterprise, a leading digital camera manufacturer in Taiwan, is reported by qualified foreign institutional investors (QFIIs) to be undertaking OEM production of a 6-megapixel digital camera with MPEG4 support for Panasonic (Matsushita Electric Industrial’s brand name), according to local Chinese-language newspaper Economic Daily News (EDN).
According to Ability Enterprise, the company is developing 6-megapixel digital cameras mainly targeting channel distributors in the US and Europe. The company indicated that Casio is its main Japanese client and it has not received any OEM orders from Panasonic. The production of 6-megapixel digital cameras will begin sometime in the second half of this year, the company added.'
Ferret reports that Scitech have released their new 'Retiga 1300R digital camera'.
Its not the type of camera the average consumer is going to be buying in a hurry, rather its ideal 'for demanding low light and fluorescence imaging applications.'
'The cameras are used to produce high resolution still images for quantitative analysis in Metallurgical microscopy, semiconductor inspection, manufacturing quality control, failure analysis and forensic analysis.'
Serious Stuff!
One of the few new announcements at this years Photo Imaging World this year was that SanDisk are releasing their High-Performance 'Extreme' line of digital flash storage cards in the Australian and New Zealand markets.
They will be make available in three formats:
1. CompactFlash - 256 megabytes (MB), 512MB, 1 gigabyte (GB) and 2GB
2. SD - 256MB and 512MB
3. Extreme Memory Stick PRO - 256MB, 512MB and 1GB.
Sigma have just released availability and princing for their new Sigma 18-125mm DC Lens which we announced Mid March.
The Sigma and Canon mount versions will be released on June 26th with a Nikon mount model available from early July and a Pentax mount planned to be released at a later date.
Imaging Resource puts the price of the Sigma 18-125mm DC lens at '¥45,000 (approximately equivalent to US$401 / €334 / CAD$551 / £224).'
This weekend in Sydney is the annual Asia Pacific Photo Imaging World.
'The equipment exhibition will feature over 100 major photo and digital companies from Australia and overseas showcasing today’s cutting-edge developments and trends in imaging technology, software and output printing systems.'
In addition to this exhibition is a huge collection of images in the 'Global Gallery', featuring some of Australia's best images. Also held concurrently are a number of conferences for professional photographers, digital image makers and retailers.
We've had reports already that the show is going well and will ourselves be flying up to Sydney tomorrow to be a part of the digital imaging action. Stand by for our show reports in the upcoming days.
Do you have marks on your digital images that you can't get rid of by cleaning your lens? One of the reasons for such smudges, blotches and blobs could be dust, little hairs or marks on your Image Sensors. It might be time to clean them. Some camera repairers offer image sensor cleaning services, but many find a do it yourself approach cheaper and more effective.
Cleaning Image Sensors is a delicate job that should be approached with real care. There are a variety of opinions on how to clean them so do some research first. Following are some of the best tips on the web on cleaning your image sensors.
This post is part of a larger article on Digital Camera Care Tips. Get weekly Digital Photography Tips like this via email for free
This post is part of a larger article on Digital Camera Care Tips
Check out some of our other Digital Camera Tips:
- Digital Photography Composition 101
- Night and Low Light Digital Photography Tips
- Macro Digital Photography Tips
- Taking Images with Camera Phones Tips
- Depth of Field Tips
- Introduction to Photoblogging and Moblogging
- How to Choose a Digital Camera
- Histogram Tips
The Sony Cybershot DSC-W12 is a special black edition version of Sony's DSC-W1. The popular DSC-W1 has a 3x Optical zoom, 5 megapixel sensor and large 2.5inch LCD. This special edition W-12 version is packaged with a matching black leather case and 4 NiMH batteries. The DSC-W12 is to be released in June 2004.
Nikon Press Release
TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce that the Nikon D70 has been selected to receive the coveted Camera Grand Prix 2004 award.
The Camera Grand Prix is the most prestigious award presented to a camera in the Japanese photo industry. It is sponsored by the Camera Press Club, an organization founded in September 1963 and comprised of writers from thirteen of Japan's leading photography and camera publications.
This year's selection committee of 51 photographers, scholars, and magazine editors selected the D70 to receive the 21st annual Camera Grand Prix award as the single most outstanding still camera from 172 nominees released between April 2003 and March 2004. This is the 4th time Nikon has received the award, with previous wins in 1984 (the 1st Grand Prix) for the Nikon FA, in 1989 (the 6th Grand Prix) for the Nikon F4, and in 1997 (the 14th Grand Prix) for the Nikon F5.
The committee members issued the following statement of reasons for bestowing the honor of camera of the year on the D70.
"The Nikon D70 delivers a superior balance of performance, price, and size. Despite being positioned as a new popular-priced digital SLR model, the camera is loaded with features that challenge even higher priced products. It overcomes the traditional weaknesses of digital cameras by realizing fast power-up and fast continuous shooting, and earns special notice for realizing response that is on par with 35mm film SLR cameras while improving practicality and comfort of use. Clearly labeled menu options make operation easier for novices and combine with the camera's other features to make it accessible to a wider range of users, thereby achieving a level where the D70 establishes an entirely new trend in digital SLR cameras.
In addition, the following features help welcome a new era of digital SLR cameras that are ready to perform and accessible to a wide audience:
- Quick response that allows shooting the instant the camera is turned on.
- 3 frame per second continuous shooting for bursts of up to 144 shots.
- Fast 1/8000 second shutter speed and 1/500 flash sync shutter speed.
- A fast and precise autofocus system.
- Menu options that are easy to view and easy to understand.
- Quality feel and design that is consistent with the Nikon lineup."
DP Review reports that Canon have made their Digital Photo Professional (DPP) Version 1.0.0 available for download for all EOS-1D and EOS-1Ds owners.
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The new Sanyo Xacti DSC-S4 has a 4 megapixel CCD sensor and ships with a 2.8x Optical Zoom lens, 16MB built in memory and takes SD cards. In super macro mode it shoots as close as 2cm.
The DSC-S4 has a 1.8inch LCD measures 91.3 x 61.5 x 30.8mm and weighs approximately 140g. It is expected to sell for approximately $372US.
For more information on the Sanyo Xacti DSC-S3 check out:
- Imaging Resource
The Sanyo Xacti DSC-S3 is a 3.2 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens. It has a 1.8inch LCD screen and 10 automatic shooting modes.
The DSC-S3 measures 91.3 x 61.5 x 30.8mm, weighs approximately 140g and is expected to sell for around $292US.
For more information on the Sanyo Xacti DSC-S3 check out:
- Imaging Resource
Press Release SMaL Camera Technologies Introduces Ultra-Pocket 5 Rapid Development Kit to Enable World's Slimmest 3-Megapixel Digital Cameras
Kit Positions Manufacturers to Launch Best in Class 3MP DSCs at Retail Price Points of $129 or Below
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA (May 19, 2004) – SMaL Camera Technologies, a developer of digital imaging solutions and enabler of award-winning super-thin digital still cameras, announced today its new Ultra-Pocket® 5 rapid development kit for 3-megapixel credit card cameras with color TFT display. The Ultra-Pocket 5 kit enables manufacturers and brands to rapidly enter the heart of the mass consumer market – 3-megapixel – with unparalleled thinness, style, wide dynamic range, and worry-free battery life, in the sub-$129 retail price range.
”Manufacturers and brands struggle to penetrate the highly coveted ‘slim’ category for digital cameras,” says Maurizio Arienzo, SMaL's president and chief executive officer. ”When they rely on off-the-shelf components, not only is their time to market slow and expensive, but also their cameras fail to meet consumers’ and retailers’ expectations in thinness, battery life, and quality, and in many cases, price point. Only SMaL’s Ultra-Pocket 5 kit overcomes all of these sources of frustration for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike.”
Kit Overcomes Major Weaknesses of Standard Digital Cameras
Despite the many advancements in digital photography over the past decade, standarddigital cameras still fall far short of film cameras due to extremely short battery life and limited dynamic range. All SMaL credit card camera kits – including the Ultra-Pocket 5 kit – feature two proprietary technologies that not only resolve these vital power and dynamic range issues, but are also unmatched by any other CCD or CMOS-based solution.
SMaL's Longevity™ ultra-low-power design with rechargeable battery uses 90% less power than traditional digital cameras. Since the camera charges automatically while images are downloaded to the computer and stores enough charge for more than 1,000 shots (up to 170 with 1.5" LCD and 100% strobe usage), consumers virtually never worry about the battery. In addition to long battery life, SMaL enabled cameras have a high-speed start-up time of less than 1 second (with strobe flash off). The combination of low power use, rechargeable battery, and fast start-up time creates the SMaL "always ready to shoot" advantage. This means consumers can capture spontaneous moments without ever worrying about the battery.
Autobrite® intelligent exposure technology provides hundreds of times more dynamic range than standard cameras. Unlike dynamic range technology by companies such as FujiFilm and Kodak, Autobrite is capable – at a mass consumer price point – of capturing eye-like details when both bright and dim areas appear in the same scene. Even entry-level camera users no longer have to worry about the position of the sun when snapping a photo – Autobrite solves this problem for them by adapting to the lighting conditions.
OEM Capitalization on Explosive Market Opportunity
”For this holiday season and beyond, there is an enormous demand among entry-level digital camera buyers, youth, and gift-givers for stylish – yet affordable – 3-megapixel slim cameras that produce film-quality prints,” says Stuart Nixdorff, SMaL's vice president of sales and marketing. ”Only SMaL’s solution enables OEMs, ODMs, and brands to capitalize fully and quickly on this market opportunity – and at a retail price points of $129 and below.” While the market SMaL created for credit card cameras has been quickly followed by large Japanese suppliers like Casio, Canon, and Sony, only SMaL can offer the market the same quality, size and key functionality at half the price. SMaL supplies the high volume, opening price point of slim, miniaturized cameras.
High Integration Means Small Form Factors, High Quality
The high level of integration in SMaL's kit results in cameras with only one-half the number of components required by designs from other companies. This low component count means smaller form factors, higher product reliability and higher manufacturing yield – all contributing to lower overall cost. Due to the vertically integrated imager and optics, SMaL designs produce sharper, crisper images compared to cameras using off-the-shelf optical components.
Creator of and Largest Supplier in the Slim Credit Card Camera Market
SMaL created the ultra-slim digital camera category in 2001 with the introduction of the Ultra-Pocket 1 VGA prototype camera at the 2001 International Consumer Electronics Show, where it was awarded "Best of CES" for digital imaging. To date, SMaL has launched 5 unique Ultra-Pocket reference designs ranging from VGA to 3.0MP and enabled well over 1.5 million credit card cameras launched by FujiFilm AXIA, RadioShack, Logitech, NHJ Limited, IDT, Oregon Scientific, and Creative Labs. SMaL-enabled cameras continue to distinguish themselves in the crowded digital camera market through sleek designs, unparalleled portability, uniquely long battery life, and ease of use.
Fast Time-to-Market
The Ultra-Pocket 5 kit includes everything OEMs require for fast time-to-market: a 3-megapixel color CMOS image sensor with Autobrite, ASIC controller, lithium-polymer rechargeable battery, taking lens, optical viewfinder and complete reference design specifications. The kit is available now to qualified OEMs looking to ship products into the marketplace in the second half of 2004.
About SMaL Camera Technologies
SMaL Camera Technologies is an award-winning developer of electronic imaging solutions for the digital camera, security and surveillance, consumer electronics and automotive markets. SMaL's solutions are built around its proprietary CMOS image sensors, ASICs and Autobrite® technology. The result is industry-leading integration, low power consumption, high dynamic range and near-infrared sensitivity. SMaL was co-founded and launched in 1999 by leading electronic imaging experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). SMaL is a privately held, venture-backed company headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
For more information on SMaL Camera Technologies and its products, visit the company's web site at http://www.SMaLcamera.com.
Ultra-Pocket and Autobrite are Registered Trademarks of SMaL Camera Technologies, Inc. Longevity is a Trademark of SMaL Camera Technologies, Inc. All company names, trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.
© 2004 SMaL Camera Technologies , Inc. All rights reserved.
Imaging Resource have just reported that Sony Japan have temporarily ceased production of their Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T11 in order to rectify a problem found in early models off the production line.
Japanese firm Hitachi have just announced the upcoming release of the Hitachi i.mega HDC-401, a stylish looking digital camera that comes in silver or red.
The i.mega HDC-401 has the strange combination of a 4 megapixel sensor and fixed focal length, fixed focus, fixed aperture lens. It has a 1.5inch LCD, is powered by two AA batteries, takes SD cards and 16MB of internal memory.
The Hitachi i.mega HDC-401 goes on sale in Japan this week.
More and more cameras have the ability to shoot in Raw mode. 'JPG', 'Raw', 'Tiff'....what does it all mean? Understanding Raw Files is a good article from Luminous Landscape that unpacks the topic and gives reasons why and why not one would shoot in Raw mode.
Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.
'When a digital camera makes an exposure the imaging chip (whether it's CCD or CMOS) records the amount of light that has hit each pixel, or photo site. This is recorded as a voltage level. The camera's analog to digital circuitry now changes this analog voltage signal into a digital representation. Depending on the camera's circuitry either 12 or 14 bits of data are recorded. Incidentally, if the camera records 12 bits of data then each pixel can handle 4,096 brightness levels (2^12), and if 14 bit then it can record 16,384 different brightness levels (2^14).'
errr....ok....so what is a raw file?
'So now you see the difference. A raw file is essentially the data that the camera's chip recorded along with some additional information tagged on. A JPG file is one that has had the camera apply linear conversion, matrix conversion, white balance, contrast, and saturation, and then has had some level of potentially destructive compression applied.' Read More
Found via Photography Blog
This week's Photoblog of the week is Empty Pictures, the home of laura sina who has a stunning collection of photographs. Laura was born in Hawaii but now lives in northern Oregon (US).
She mainly uses a Canon Powershot A10 or her more recently purchased Nikon Coolpix 4500. She is living proof that you don't need to have a DSLR to take stunning images.
I love Laura's shots because they evoke mood, emotion and a sense of mystery. Her pictures often make the viewer go back for a second look because they have are composed in such a way as to intrigue.
Empty Pictures is well worth a visit.
Geoff Lawrence Photography is a new site dedicated to photography in general (film and digital). It has a growling collection of tutorials on a variety of subjects that whilst not specifically about the digital medium will help anyone starting out in photography that wants to improve. They features some great images to illustrate points. This will be a site to watch develop in the months and years ahead.
CNET have an interesting article on how digital photography is going 'peer to peer' - similar to how MP3 sharing took off a year or so back using peer to peer systems like Napster.
'OurPictures, a Palo Alto, Calif., start-up, on Tuesday plans to launch its service for letting subscribers share pictures over the Internet but without the constraints of e-mail attachments or Web sites.
The idea behind OurPictures, which is set to conclude a three-month test of its service, is that subscribers can post pictures to a network of fellow subscribers who transfer the pictures directly from one computer to another.
"Our belief is that the desktop is the right place where a consumer wants to organize and manage their digital photos--not on a Web site," said John Paul, CEO and founder of OurPictures. "If you have one photo you want a thousands people to see, that's one thing. But a Web site is not the right place to place thousands of photos."' Found via Photography Blog
Casio are getting ready to announce their latest camera phone with a whopping 3 megapixel sensor in Japan later in the year.
Reiter's reports: 'The handset includes nine "best shot" modes, including twilight, food, panorama and fireworks, the article says. The camera phone also can shoot and store up to 60 minutes of video....
Size: 52×102×28mm
Weight: 125g
Standby time: 200 hours
Continuous talk time: 2 hours 40 mins
Main display: Approx. 2.3" crystal fine LCD (QVGA)
Sub display: Approx 1.1: LCD (72x96 pix)
External memory: miniSD
Camera: 3.2MP CCD (with autofocus)
Ringtone voices: 64
Case colours: White, black and purple
Java
GPS
Chaku-uta supported (MP3 ringtone download style service)
Twin speaker for stereo sound'
We scoured the web today to find 10 of the best digital camera cleaning and care tips from some of the most respected digital camera sites:
Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.