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One of the most common requests for tips that we get is for advice on how to take good photographs of food. If your house is anything like mine it has a shelf somewhere full of cook books (my wife is rather addicted to them) - most of which are filled with stunning photos of all kinds of food dishes. Some of them are mouth watering to read. Taking good photos of food is not as easy as it looks - lighting, composition, angles etc are all potential problem areas. We thought we'd take a look around the web and find some of the best food photography tips available. There is not a lot written on the topic but here are some quality starting points for budding food photographers:
Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.
The Fine Art of Food Photography is a good introduction to the topic as it profiles food photograher, Doug Bradshaw - “”It's sort of like a performance art. When it's happened, it's happened,“ says Bradshaw of his craft, as he sips red wine and allows an amused smile to creep across his face. ”Food is very fluid. It's very temporary. You're looking for that decisive moment when everything is at its peak. It's the only thing that I've found that involves all of your senses. As a medium, it's very exciting....
“We're selling a dream,” says Wigington, whose current task is to make a dreamy ad for Weetabix. “You need your audience to say, `I would like to be there, and I would love to be eating that food.' I don't think you really look at all the plates and stuff, but it does make the composition work. There's all this subliminal stuff that we kind of do intuitively.”“
O'Reilly: Tasteful Food Photography has one of the best articles on the topic we found - “Get close: If possible, fill the entire frame of the image with your subject. I took most of the shots in this article with a 75-300mm lens at f-stops of 4 or 5.6. The resulting shallow depth-of-field will throw everything but a few inches of your plate out of focus, blurring the background and highlighting the texture of your food item. So position your camera and tripod on a low angle to your plate, zoom in (using the depth-of-field preview button on the 10D helps too), set your exposure in manual mode at something like f 5.6 and 1/8 second (ISO 200), and fire away....
Lighting: I inquired about the lighting conditions in the kitchen way ahead of time. My Canon 10D has a nifty White Balance option that will let me adjust for various lighting conditions on the fly, but film users must be aware of the perilous lighting conditions they can encounter on a shoot. In my case, two large rows of fluorescent lights with plastic diffusers were mounted directly overhead, providing plentiful, even illumination. Fluorescent lighting, however, will tint an image an unsightly shade of green. To retain the all-important natural colors in my images, I switched my camera's White Balance setting to ”fluorescent,“ activating the 10D's built-in color compensation mode. Film users should use a magenta filter to compensate for fluorescent light, or if shooting with stationary indoor lights, switch to tungsten-balanced film.”
Food Photo Tips has five simple but helpful tips, here are two: “Take the time to setup your shot. Look for distracting elements that might be in the background. We have found that photographing against a white background or a piece of cloth helps significantly.
Use a tripod or stabilizer. Close-up shots are less forgiving to movement than pictures at a distance. It is harder to get a good focus, so the more you can help yourself the better. This may mean just setting your camera on a stack of books.”
Food Geeks has some useful food photography tips:
- “Try to cut foods in somewhat geometric shapes for a more professional presentation.
- Arrange items on plate in a manner that showcases the strengths of a dish and its high-value ingredients.
- Garnish the dish to enhance the color. Adding chopped parsley gives spaghetti green specks that bring out the red color of the sauce. Adding a lemon wedge to a glass of iced tea takes a drab glass of brown liquid and gives it some juice. Or, consider ladling a sauce on the plate underneath the food, or over the items on the plate.”
Food Photography has some more details tips for photographing food - “Carefully placed focus & depth of field - You'll find that with careful use of focus and depth of field adjustments, you can bring snap into an otherwise dull photograph.
On cameras lacking manual focus, you can usually depress the shutter button halfway down when you have the autofocus marks centered upon the area of interest to lock focus at that distance. You can recompose later by moving the camera about while keeping the shutter button depressed halfway. Depth of field or aperature settings on automatic cameras are usually missing, so you'll have to take whatever you get.
On cameras with manual focus, you will adjust the focus to the point you want, then simply let the focus distance remain fixed while you move the camera about. Most cameras with manual focus will have manual depth of field or aperature control, and again, you can simply set them at whatever is most appropriate for your picture. Wider or more open for a shallow depth of field, smaller or more closed for a deeper one.
When you look at a scene, take a look to see if any part of it grabs your attention right away. It may be the yellow color of a lemon, or the succulent look of a burger, or even the shape and texture of a fruit.
Whatever it is, look again at the entire scene and think about whether blurring them out of focus and out of attention would make them less distracting. Sometimes, you'll find that by doing so, you'll have a much stronger image - one that almost pulls the viewer's eyes directly to the point of sharp focus and attention. On the other hand, if the entire subject needs to be in sharp focus, you may find that you'll need to set the aperature as small as possible to get a wide depth of field, with sharp focus from near to far.”
Also check out Tasting Menu - a blog about food with heaps of photography.
The BenQ DC E53 is a 5 megapixel, ultra slim (24mm thin) digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens and a 2.5inch LCD screen. Read more about the BenQ DC E53 in the following press release from BEnQ.
BenQ Press Release
BenQ Unveils Two Ultra-Slim Digital Cameras Equipped with Large-Sized LCD Screens
TAIPEI, TAIWAN, September 27, 2004 - BenQ today unveiled the ultra-slim and sleek 4 mega pixel CCD resolution DC E43 and 5 mega pixel CCD resolution DC E53 digital cameras, equipped with 3x optical zoom. Measuring 24 mm in thickness, the new compact DC E53 and E43 digital cameras are BenQ's first camera series equipped with 2+ inch LCD screens.
“Sporting a slim 24 mm casing and elegant design, the BenQ E43 and E53 will offer end-users a highly portable and stylish camera for enjoyment anywhere,” said William Wang, Vice-President and General Manager of the Imaging Network Business Group. “Also with the inclusion of spacious large-sized LCD screens, the BenQ E43 and E53 will further enhance the experience of taking and sharing pictures.”
Equipped with a 2.5-inch LTPS-LCD screen, the BenQ E53 digital camera provides a comfortable large-sized screen for viewing pictures and images. Using 50% less power than standard TFT-LCD screens found on other cameras, TLPS-LCD screens provide better image delicacy and color saturation.
Featuring a simple and elegant design, the BenQ E53 and E43 is encased in a glossy and durable aluminum exterior. Designed by BenQ's Lifestyle Design Center, the BenQ DC E53 and E43 offer the perfect compliment of easy portability, stylish chic and great value.
The BenQ DC E43 and E53 will be available in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Americas and select Southeast Asian markets in October.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
88.5 x 54.5 x 24 mm
Weight
E53: 130 g
E43: 125 g
Image Sensor
E53: 5 megapixels effective CCD
E43: 4 megapixels effective CCD
LCD
E53: 2.5“ Color LTPS-LCD
E43: 2.0” Color LTPS-LCD
Zoom
Optical: 3X Digital: 3.6X
Battery
Lithium-ion
The BenQ DC E43 is a 4 megapixel, ultra slim (24mm thin) digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens and a 2.0inch LCD screen. Read more about this camera in the following BenQ press release.
BenQ Press Release
BenQ Unveils Two Ultra-Slim Digital Cameras Equipped with Large-Sized LCD Screens
TAIPEI, TAIWAN, September 27, 2004 - BenQ today unveiled the ultra-slim and sleek 4 mega pixel CCD resolution DC E43 and 5 mega pixel CCD resolution DC E53 digital cameras, equipped with 3x optical zoom. Measuring 24 mm in thickness, the new compact DC E53 and E43 digital cameras are BenQ's first camera series equipped with 2+ inch LCD screens.
“Sporting a slim 24 mm casing and elegant design, the BenQ E43 and E53 will offer end-users a highly portable and stylish camera for enjoyment anywhere,” said William Wang, Vice-President and General Manager of the Imaging Network Business Group. “Also with the inclusion of spacious large-sized LCD screens, the BenQ E43 and E53 will further enhance the experience of taking and sharing pictures.”
Equipped with a 2.5-inch LTPS-LCD screen, the BenQ E53 digital camera provides a comfortable large-sized screen for viewing pictures and images. Using 50% less power than standard TFT-LCD screens found on other cameras, TLPS-LCD screens provide better image delicacy and color saturation.
Featuring a simple and elegant design, the BenQ E53 and E43 is encased in a glossy and durable aluminum exterior. Designed by BenQ's Lifestyle Design Center, the BenQ DC E53 and E43 offer the perfect compliment of easy portability, stylish chic and great value.
The BenQ DC E43 and E53 will be available in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Americas and select Southeast Asian markets in October.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
88.5 x 54.5 x 24 mm
Weight
E53: 130 g
E43: 125 g
Image Sensor
E53: 5 megapixels effective CCD
E43: 4 megapixels effective CCD
LCD
E53: 2.5“ Color LTPS-LCD
E43: 2.0” Color LTPS-LCD
Zoom
Optical: 3X Digital: 3.6X
Battery
Lithium-ion
Digital camera can bring so much to an individual or family's life - but what are the ramifications of a digital camera on a business. There are definitely some positives but this article examines some of the other issues to think through with Digital Cameras in businesses.
"1) Security: many companies do not allow cameras into their offices, warehouses and factories for security reasons, including theft, computer security, trade secrets, industrial espionage and even terrorism. Digital cameras are no different, except they now are easier to conceal and a greater percentage of people are carrying them.
2) Part of the job: for some tasks, digital cameras have made the job easier. Insurance claims adjusters and realtors come to mind as early applications for digital cameras.
3) Liability: in situations where the company provides a device with a digital camera to employees, there's the question of liability. What happens when the employee starts using this camera for illicit purposes? I'm not just talking about "up-skirt" shots and pictures in the bathroom. For example, what happens when a service technician uses the camera as mentioned in (1) and a crime results? Who's liable? What about the service tech's employer who supplied the camera in the first place?"
Read more at Mobile Enterprise Weblog: Do enterprises really need digital cameras?:
"Although bright, radiant leaves are a big part of autumn, they are still only a part of it. So let's take a look at the many ways of revealing the true essence of autumn.
Free the leaves in your pictures - Soon enough strong winds and heavy rains will knock the remaining leaves from the trees. But until then you'll be faced with the daunting task of photographing whole hillsides of colourful leaves. Why is it daunting? Because what overwhelms you in person may well underwhelm you in a picture. Your challenge is not to convey the majesty but the mood, not every single leaf but the essence of a leaf."
Read more at Better Digital Photography: Autumn Photo Tips
Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.
"Remember, cropping is as much an art form as it is a technical operation. No two images or scenes are the same and therefore no two cropping solutions will be the same. Concentrate on the fundamental issues behind why an image is being cropped and then be bold and experiment. Learning from failures is just as valuable as learning from successes."
Read more at Tutorial: Cropping Photos :: Every Picture Tells a Story
Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.
Lexar and Kodak Expand Flash Memory Card Offering With the Introduction of KODAK xD-Picture Cards
COLOGNE, Germany, September 29, 2004 -- Lexar Media, Inc. (Nasdaq: LEXR), and Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK), announced today the continued expansion of KODAK flash memory cards with the introduction of KODAK xD-Picture Cards. The addition of the xD-Picture Card continues the companies' commitment to offer consumers a range of popular digital media formats. Lexar will distribute and market KODAK xD-Picture Cards through both Lexar and Kodak's global retail distribution channels beginning in the fourth quarter of 2004.
"Retailers and distributors worldwide are eager to begin offering KODAK xD-Picture Cards to more fully meet the consumer demand spurred by the popularity of digital photography," said Bobby Billman, vice president of marketing, Lexar. "With this addition to the KODAK memory card line, we are offering a wider variety of products that people trust for capturing and preserving their memories - hallmarks of Kodak."
The xD-Picture Card is one of the smallest flash memory card formats for digital cameras and accounted for 12.8 percent of the total U.S. flash memory card market in June, according to NPD Group. The xD-Picture Cards offer large capacities for high mega-pixel photos and can support a maximum future capacity of 8 gigabytes.
"KODAK media cards are already enjoying widespread market acceptance," noted Peter Jameson of Kodak. "Kodak's and Lexar's ability to place media cards in new retail channels and locations provides significant opportunity to broaden how people view and use removable memory."
Announced in May, Lexar and Kodak formed a long-term relationship to gain a larger share of the market for removable digital memory products, driven by surging demand from the mass-market adoption of digital cameras, mobile phone cameras, portable music players and other consumer electronics devices.
About Eastman Kodak Company
Kodak is the leader in helping people take, share, print and view images - for memories, for information, for entertainment. The company is a major participant in infoimaging, a $385 billion industry composed of devices (digital cameras and flat-panel displays), infrastructure (online networks and delivery systems for images) and services & media (software, film and paper enabling people to access, analyze and print images). With sales of $13.3 billion in 2003, the company comprises several businesses: Health, supplying the healthcare industry with traditional and digital image capture and output products and services; Graphic Communications Group, offering on-demand color printing and networking publishing systems consisting of three wholly owned subsidiaries: Encad, Inc., NexPress Solutions, and Kodak Versamark; Commercial Imaging, offering image capture, output and storage products and services to businesses and government; Display & Components, which designs and manufactures state-of-the-art organic light-emitting diode displays as well as other specialty materials, and delivers imaging sensors to original equipment manufacturers; and Digital & Film Imaging Systems, providing consumers, professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services. For more information visit www.kodak.com.
About Lexar Media, Inc.
Lexar is a leading marketer and manufacturer of flash memory cards, USB flash drives, card readers and ATA controller technology for the digital photography, consumer electronics, industrial and communications markets. The company holds over 76 issued or allowed controller and system patents, and licenses its technology to companies including Olympus, Samsung Electronics, SanDisk Corporation and Sony. For more information, please call 1-800-789-9418 or visit www.lexar.com
PDN Online has a hands on review of the Mamiya ZD and writes - 'The Mamiya ZD, even in its current iteration is a powerful camera. Engineers in Japan will need to ensure that the image processing time is short enough to make the camera a viable option in the studio or in the field, but aside from the buffering times and the image-quality quirks of the early version firmware, the Mamiya ZD is already good to go.
When it ships, the ZD will be lighter than the Canon 1Ds Mark II, with nearly twice the resolution of the Nikon D2X, and vastly more lenses than the Olympus E system. If the company can bring the price in line (a few thousand more than a Canon 1Ds Mark II, but less than a AFD plus back) will make this a very powerful addition to Mamiya’s lineup.'
Popular Photography Magazine reviews the Mamiya ZD and writes - 'Will the ZD steal the thunder from lower- megapixel models, such as Canon’s 16.6MP EOS-1Ds Mark II or Nikon’s 12.4MP D2x? That’s doubtful, considering the lower price of these cameras, their superior AF, exposure and metering systems, their wider and faster burst modes, and more extensive accessories (including lenses and flash units). It’s also likely that the smaller battery on the ZD will deliver only a fraction of the images that those CMOS-based SLRs can capture. But pros who already own a Mamiya 645 AF, in addition to several expensive Mamiya AF lenses, should be drawn like a magnet to this camera. (Current 645AFd owners, on the other hand, will probably opt for the 22MP Mamiya ZD back, which has the same sensor and image-processing capability, but at a lower price.) The Mamiya ZD will primarily attract those special photographers who value image quality above all else, and can’t wait to show off this megapixel champion.'
Luminous Landscape reviews the medium format Mamiya ZD digital camera and writes - 'So in the end, the Mamiya ZD is a camera that every photographer who needs or wants the large files that a 22 MP sensor produces should take a look at, especially if he or she is on a tight budget. Or, of course, if the form-factor appeals to you, there is no other camera like this currently on the market. And using the camera with studio strobes, there would be no vibration problems.'
Mamiya Press Release
Mamiya Lens-interchangeable Digital SLR Camera & Mamiya Digital Back
We are very proud to announce development of a lens-interchangeable digital SLR camera “Mamiya ZD” and a digital back “Mamiya ZD Back”.
Mamiya ZD:
Type: Lens-Interchangeable Digital SLR AF/AE Camera
Features: 36x48 mm 22 million pixel CCD, Mamiya 645AF Lenses compatible
Mamiya ZD Back:
Type: Digital Back
Features: 36x48mm 22 million pixel CCD, Compatible with Mamiya 645AFD & Mamiya RZ67Pro-IID
Since 1940, Mamiya has been pursuing to design and realize high images quality, high reliability and ease of use. Mamiya cameras ever produced have been well received by professional photographers and advanced amateurs, and that has made Mamiya the leader in high-end imaging. Inheriting the high quality, in order to meet the needs of digital photographers, the Mamiya ZD and Mamiya ZD Back are being created.
The Mamiya ZD is a lens-interchangeable digital SLR, and accepts the range of the Mamiya 645AF interchangeable lenses. The Mamiya ZD Back is a digital camera back compatible with the Mamiya 645AFD which is favourably reputed in the market and the Mamiya RZ67Pro-IID which just has become available.
The Mamiya ZD Back realizes full interactive communications through the MSCE (Mamiya Serial Communication for External) to bring out the best of all the advanced functions of these cameras.
The Mamiya ZD and the Mamiya ZD Back come with a 36x48mm, 22 million-pixel CCD and generate stunning high resolution images with both rich and smooth tonal ranges. The 14 bit A/D (Analog to Digital) conversion records information as 12-bit per colour channel. The ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which was developed exclusively for the Mamiya ZD and Mamiya ZD Back, processes in realtime, optimisation of image data from CCD.
With the built-in slots for media cards, the Mamiya ZD and the Mamiya ZD Back can be used without tether. Low-pass filter is optionally available and a photographer can shoot with or without it depending on shooting conditions. An innovative cartridge type low-pass filter makes it a snap to exchange the filters (Mamiya ZD only). For these models Mamiya is developing “Mamiya Digital PhotoStudio” software which provides a simple, yet powerful interface from image capture & editing, to processing. When connected to a computer by an IEEE1394 cable, many functions of the cameras can be operated from computer.
Mamiya is committed to develop these new models and desires to bring them as soon as possible to you!
This press release is based on the current plans and beliefs of Mamiya-OP Co., Ltd. and involves known and unknown potential risks and uncertainties.
Update - New information has been released about the Mamiya ZD including release date and pricing. Check here for details.
Press Release IPIX Interactive Studio Available with REALVIZ Fisheye Plug-in; Partners Deliver Software with Multiple Options for Stitching Fisheye Photography
COLOGNE, Germany --(Business Wire)-- Sept. 28, 2004 -- IPIX InfoMedia, the world leader for the creation of full 360-degree panoramic photography, and REALVIZ(R), the leading developer of imaging software for creating panoramas, today announced the availability of IPIX Interactive Studio with the award-winning REALVIZ fisheye plug-in extension. The combined solution, which begins shipping today, supports a wider variety of shot-capture modes for fisheye photography resulting in higher resolution panoramic images.
In addition to the easy, two-shot setup for capturing full 360-degree images that IPIX traditionally supports, the REALVIZ fisheye plug-in extends support for 3, 4, and 5 shot capture modes of digital SLR cameras used by professional photographers who require the highest resolution panoramic images possible.
“We are pleased to collaborate with IPIX InfoMedia to introduce a new fisheye stitching engine based on of our well-known REALVIZ Stitcher 4.0 solution,” said Dominique Pouliquen, CEO & Co-founder REALVIZ S.A. “Today we are able to offer through IPIX our stitching technology to customers who have waited for years to leverage the simplicity of fisheye-based panoramic photography.”
The REALVIZ fisheye extension is exclusively available from IPIX InfoMedia as a plug-in to Interactive Studio V1.3.
“Our co-development with REALVIZ solidifies our commitment to provide an open technology platform for the creation of panoramic photography,” said Joseph L. Ortiz, General Manager of IPIX InfoMedia. “This product will allow our customers to capture beautiful images, with outstanding quality, with the simplest capture and production workflow.”
The newly released software provides:
-- A single solution to handle every capture method of fisheye photography, from 2 shots to multiple shots
-- Intelligent auto-stitching feature that takes the guess-work out of panoramic image creation
-- Integrated image editing, compositing and filter tools to easily enhance panoramic images without the expense of stand-alone editing tools
-- Time-saving batch functionality for stitching, capping, scaling, compressing and converting output in order to maximize production efficiency
-- Broad support for multiple output formats -- including Macromedia Shockwave, VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language), X3D and others -- with added control over scaling and resolution
-- Scalable platform with modular plug-ins that accommodate changing photography business needs
Interactive Studio V1.3 including the REALVIZ fisheye plug-in is available for demonstration at the Photokina Trade Fair, September 28, to October 3, 2004, in booth A075 (Hall 14.1). Additionally, a free evaluation version of the software is now available for download at www.ipix.com and allows users to view and test supported functionality, including outputs to various panoramic image formats.
About IPIX InfoMedia
IPIX InfoMedia is the world leading provider of solutions for the creation of full-360 degree panoramic photography. IPIX InfoMedia products offer superior image capture and an open, flexible data format that can easily be integrated into a wide range of business systems. IPIX InfoMedia solutions serve the Visual Media and Visual Documentation markets. IPIX InfoMedia is a business unit of IPIX Corporation (Nasdaq:IPIX). IPIX Corporation offers mission critical imaging where visual content is required for eCommerce and the protection of life and property. Learn more about IPIX's three business units (IPIX AdMission, IPIX Security and IPIX InfoMedia) at www.ipix.com.
IPIX, the IPIX logo and IPIX Interactive Studio are trademarks or registered trademarks of IPIX Corporation.
About REALVIZ
REALVIZ is a leading developer of image based creation software based in Sophia Antipolis, France, with U.S. operations in San Francisco, CA; and a satellite sales office in London, Berlin & Paris. REALVIZ develops a suite of image-based content creation solutions for the film, broadcast, gaming, digital imaging, architecture and Internet communities. Derived from years of research efforts at the renowned INRIA Lab in France, the company's applications enable 2D and 3D artists to easily and cost-effectively tackle complex digital imaging projects. REALVIZ's award-winning products are used by thousands of professional photographers, as well as by leading production and effects houses, web design, game development and architectural companies worldwide including Cinesite, Framestore CFC, Sony Imageworks, Warner Brothers Animation, Electronic Arts, Buf Compagnie and many others. Learn more about REALVIZ at www.realviz.com.
The Casio QV-R52 is a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom, 2inch LCD and 21 preset shooting modes. Lear more about it from the following Casion Press Release.
Casio Press Release
Norderstedt, September 2004 - The new QV-R52 digital camera from CASIO is a must-have on holiday, for everyday use, on the weekend trip at all times. Equipped with 5.0 megapixels and 3x optical zoom, the camera produces superb quality photos quickly and simply. With its Direct On function it is ready to use in around one second1. That, together with the shutter release time of approx. 0.01 second2 makes the QV-R52 ideal for any snapshot.
The barbecue evening with your friends and your young one's first gap between the teeth - it's easy to have a look at the recording of thrilling moments on the large 2-inch TFT colour display. The QV-R52 digital camera comes in high-quality metal body, measures 88.3mm x 60.4mm x 33.4mm3, and photographing with it is child's play, thanks to the simple menu control. The 21 pre-recorded scenes (BESTSHOT) give you the scenarios for various manner of snapshot situations, and there is more you can add on besides. The built-in flash with red eye reduction ensures excellent quality photos - even under poor light conditions.
The compact camera, weighing a mere 168 g4, boasts extra features like the self-timer, macro, automatic calendar and world time, as well as alarm function with picture. The integrated memory store of approx. 9.7 MB can be extended with any SD/MMC card. With every function, CASIO's own electronics reduce energy consumption considerably and ensures that snap-happy photographer can retain so many special moments.
The new QV-R52 digital camera from CASIO will be on sale from early October 2004. The package includes a carry strap, a USB cable and extensive software on CD-ROM. Optional extras also available: the QVR-CASE1 and QVR-CASE2 camera bags, the AD-C30 adapter.
1) LCD and flash off
2) After focusing, LCD and flash off
3) Without projection
4) Weight not including battery and memory card
Tamron Presss Release
TAMRON INTRODUCES SP AF11-18MM F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD ASPHERICAL (IF)
A NEW HIGH PERFORMANCE ZOOM LENS DESIGNED FOR EXCLUSIVE USE WITH DIGITAL (APS-C) SLR CAMERAS COVERING THE ULTRA WIDEANGLE RANGE
Photokina, Cologne, Germany, September 28, 2004 - Mr. Morio Ono, President of Tamron Co., Ltd., announced the successful development of the SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) (Model A13), a new high performance ultra wideangle zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors.
The new SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF), an ultra wideangle zoom lens, is Tamron's first lens designed for exclusive use with digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors. The lens provides reliable performance in a compact size to meet the needs of digital SLR camera users pursuing creativity in wideangle photography. The lens uses a new optical system specially designed for digital SLR cameras, in addition to the use of a glass-molded aspherical element having a large clear aperture, hybrid aspherical elements, and elements using such special glass materials as high index/high dispersion glass and low dispersion optical glass, for outstanding optical performance.
* “Di (Digitally Integrated design)-II” is the designation Tamron puts on lenses designed for exclusive use with digital (APS-C size) SLR cameras, featuring optical systems optimized to meet the performance characteristics of digital cameras.
* “Di-II” lenses cannot be used with digital SLR cameras using image sensors that are larger than that of an APS-C size imager, or with 35mm film SLR cameras.
Main Features
Dedicated for Digital SLR Cameras
Through the employment of an optical design for exclusive use with digital (APS-C) SLR cameras, an ultra wideangle zoom lens with a focal length equivalent to a 17-28mm when converted to that of a 35mm full size film camera lens has been realized. Using this lens along with the digital SLR-dedicated AF18-200mm zoom lens introduced by Tamron simultaneously, you can enjoy creative digital SLR photography with a wide choice of angles of view.
Features an Optical System Optimized for Characteristics of Digital Cameras
The optical system uses one element each of HID (High Index/High Dispersion glass) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass to minimize on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations that are the greatest hindrance to high optical quality. In addition, the lens uses a high-precision, large clear aperture, glass-molded hybrid aspherical element and two hybrid aspherical elements to thoroughly compensate for spherical and chromatic aberrations and distortion, in order to achieve outstanding optical quality.
Optical Design Dedicated to Digital SLR Photography by Optimizing the Angles of Incidences of Light Rays Reaching the Imager
The zoom lens uses a new optical system designed to confine the changing angles of incidences of light rays reaching the imager within a certain scope over the entire image field from the center to the periphery, by considering the effects of variances due to zooming.
Enhanced Peripheral Illumination
Peripheral light fall-off is minimized when compared with that of conventional lenses for film cameras so that images are uniformly bright from the center to the periphery.
Outstanding Resolution
Since the lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR photography, it provides high image quality in terms of resolution, contrast and flatness of image field.
Internal Surface Coating to Reduce Ghosting and Flare
Ghosting and flare caused by aberrations are annoying factors in digital SLR photography, so Tamron has adopted various countermeasures against the problem including the employment of “Internal Surface Coatings” (i.e., multiple-layer coatings on cemented surfaces of plural elements) and new multiple-layer coating technology on ordinary elements in order to minimize reflections that occur when light enters through the front element and to reduce image degrading effects caused by the imagers themselves.
Flower-shaped Lens Hood
A glare-reducing flower-shaped lens hood is included as a standard accessory. The special hood provides optimum shading of superfluous light rays that enter from the rectangular frame outside the image field.
New External Design Conveys “High Performance, High Precision Image” as One of the New Di-II Series
Improvements have been made to the external design by adding a gold-colored band above the focus ring to enhance the appearance and make it stand out as a Di-II lens. The rubber patterns of the zoom and focus control rings have been improved at the same time to compliment the digital camera design style and to provide better handling.
Specifications
Tamron SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical [IF]
Focal Length: 11-18mm
Maximum Aperture F/4.5-5.6
Minimum Aperture F/22
Angle of View 103° - 75° (APS-C Size)
Lens Construction: 15 elements / 12 groups
MFD (Minimum Focus Distance): 0.25m (9.8“) (entire zoom range)
Diaphragm Blades:7
Filter Size: Ø77mm
Size (Diameter x Length): Ø 3.3 in. x 3.1 in. (Ø82.2mm x 78.6mm)*
Weight: 375g**
Max. Mag. Ratio: 1:8
Standard Accessory: Flower-Shaped Hood
Compatible Mount: Canon AF-D, Minolta AF-D, and Nikon AF-D
*specifications based on Nikon mount
**specifications based on Canon mount
Tamron Press Release
TAMRON ANNOUNCES AF18-200MM F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II ASPHERICAL (IF) MACRO
A NEW HIGH POWER STANDARD ZOOM LENS DESIGNED FOR EXCLUSIVE USE WITH DIGITAL (APS-C) SLR CAMERAS
Photokina, Cologne, Germany, September 28, 2004 - Mr. Morio Ono, President of Tamron Co., Ltd., announced the successful development of the AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II Aspherical (IF) MACRO (Model A14), a new high power zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors.
The new AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II Aspherical (IF) MACRO is a high power zoom lens for exclusive use with digital (APS-C size) SLR cameras that inherits the product concept of the existing AF28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 XR zoom lens. Even two years after its introduction, the current AF28-300mm is still a favorite and highly evaluated by photographers around the world as a representative model of high power zoom lenses. With the market influx of digital SLR cameras in recent years, the use of high power zoom lenses has become increasingly popular since high power zooms provide the convenience of handling many photographic scenes and the capability of shooting ultra telephoto shots without changing lenses. The popularity of this focal length led Tamron to initiate the development of new zoom lenses to further meet the needs of digital SLR photographers. The result is the successful development of a new zoom lens exclusively for use on digital SLR cameras. The wide to ultra tele focal range of this lens will allow digital SLR camera owners to enjoy digital photography with comfort and convenience.
“Di (Digitally Integrated design)-II” is the designation Tamron puts on lenses designed for exclusive use with digital (APS-C size) SLR cameras, featuring optical systems optimized to meet the performance characteristics of digital cameras.
* “Di-II” lenses cannot be used with digital SLR cameras using image sensors that are larger than that of an APS-C size imager, or with 35mm film SLR cameras.
Main Features
Dedicated for Digital SLR Cameras
By incorporating an optical design for exclusive use with digital (APS-C) SLR cameras, this high power zoom lens provides the focal length equivalent to Tamron's 28-300mm (when converted to a 35mm format). Therefore, you can meet almost all photographic opportunities with this single zoom lens without changing lenses. When paired with the SP AF11-18mm zoom lens, simultaneously introduced by Tamron at Photokina, you can enjoy thoroughly digital SLR photography with the combined focal length coverage of 17-300mm.
Optical System Uses Special Glass and is Optimized for Digital SLR Characteristics in order to Enhance Optical Quality in a Compact Design
The new AF18-200mm high power zoom lens from Tamron features an entirely new optical design using XR (Extra Refractive Index) glass in an innovative way in order to optimize the overall distribution of optical power throughout the entire zoom range. This design reduces various aberrations to the absolute minimum and achieves remarkable downsizing at the same time. In addition, three hybrid aspherical lens elements and two LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements are used to accomplish effective compensation of on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations, a critical factor to enhance the optical quality in digital photography. As a result, the lens provides outstanding optical quality in a multi-purpose zoom lens.
Optical Design Dedicated to Digital SLR Photography by Optimizing the Angles of Incidences of Light Rays Reaching the Imager
The zoom lens uses a new optical system designed to confine the changing angles of incidences of light rays reaching the imager within a certain scope over the entire image field from the center to the periphery, by considering the effects of variances due to zooming.
Enhanced Peripheral Illumination
Peripheral light fall-off is minimized when compared with that of conventional lenses for film cameras so that images are uniformly bright from the center to the periphery.
Outstanding Resolution
Since the lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR photography, it provides high image quality in terms of resolution, contrast and flatness of image field.
Internal Surface Coating to Reduce Ghosting and Flare
Ghosting and flare caused by aberrations are annoying factors in digital SLR photography, so Tamron has adopted various countermeasures against the problem including the employment of “Internal Surface Coatings” (i.e., multiple-layer coatings on cemented surfaces of plural elements) and new multiple-layer coating technology on ordinary elements in order to minimize reflections that occur when light enters through the front element and to reduce image degrading effects caused by the imagers themselves.
Revolutionary MFD – 0.45m over the Entire Zoom Range for 1:3.7 Macro Capability
It is an important condition for a multi-purpose zoom lens to provide the capability of getting close to the subject. The new 18-200mm zoom lens realizes an MFD (Minimum Focus Distance) of 0.45m over the entire zoom range, which is better than that of the conventional 28-300mm zoom lens, by the employment of a new optical/mechanical design configuration. Since the maximum magnification ratio at f=200mm is 1:3.7, you can enjoy close-up photography easily and conveniently.
High Power, Yet Compact and Lightweight Thanks to New Mechanical Artifices
Complicated mechanisms are built in the compact body thanks to new mechanical artifices. The lens is a multi-purpose zoom lens, yet excellent portability and ease of use are assured. A number of invisible engineering innovations required to downsize the lens, produce high precision parts and increase durability are incorporated in the new AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II Aspherical (IF) MACRO since manufacturing this type of zoom lens with such complicated mechanisms inside was almost impossible with conventional manufacturing technology.
Zoom Lock Mechanism Incorporated
The Zoom Lock prevents unwanted barrel extension when carrying the lens/camera combination.
Flower-shaped Lens Hood
A glare-reducing flower-shaped lens hood is included as a standard accessory. The special hood provides optimum shading of superfluous light rays that enter from the rectangular frame outside the image field.
New External Design Conveys “High Performance, High Precision Image” as One of the New Di-II Series
Improvements have been made to the external design by adding a gold-colored band between the focus and zoom rings to enhance the appearance and make it stand out as a Di-II lens. The rubber patterns of the zoom and focus control rings have been improved at the same time to compliment the digital camera design style and to provide better handling.
Specifications
Tamron SP AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II LD Aspherical [IF] Macro
Focal Length: 18-200mm
Maximum Aperture: F/3.5-6.3
Minimum Aperture: F/22
Angle of View: 75° - 8°
Lens Construction: 15 elements / 13 groups
MFD (Minimum Focus Distance): 0.45m (17.7“) (entire zoom range)
Diaphragm Blades: 7
Filter Size:Ø62mm
Size (Diameter x Length): Ø 2.9 in. x 3.3 in. (Ø73mm x 83.7mm)*
Weight: 423g (14.9 oz.) (approx. design value)*
Max. Mag. Ratio: 1:2.7
Standard Accessory:
Flower-Shaped Hood
Compatible Mount:
Canon AF, Minolta AF, Nikon AF and Pentax AF
I couldn't resist posting about this Remote Control Car with a Camera when I first saw it over at Gizmodo
“Overtaking all other remote control cars in its price bracket the Cyclops is jam packed with functionality. Not only does the classy red and black bodywork ooze sex appeal but the car features a colour camera built into the windscreen which transmits a picture directly to the colour monitor on your controller. This means that you've got a ‘driver's eye view' of the action at all times… and, as if this weren't enough, the Cyclops also has a microphone/speaker function which enables you to listen in on other people's conversations via the earphone socket… hurry though we're expecting a call from MI5 to wipe out all our stock any day now!
There's also a TV-Out socket, which means that you can watch your car chases on the big screen and even video them so that you can review your moves at a later stage. In addition you'll find a ‘Light' button, which activates your headlights for midnight missions and an Audio- Out socket.”
Read more at gadgetshop - Cyclops Camera Car
· High Resolution C-MOS video camera
· 1.8 inch TFT colour LCD display (30 frames per second)
· Miniature wireless microphone
· Infrared Laser Tag
· RCA video and audio out
· Ultra bright headlights
· High/Low speed selector
· Dual channels for two players
· Safety wrist strap
Lexar Press Release
Lexar Introduces First Professional Card Readers With Innovative Stackable Design for Concurrent Downloads
COLOGNE, Germany --(Business Wire)-- Sept. 27, 2004 Lexar Media, Inc. (Nasdaq:LEXR), a leading marketer and manufacturer of high-performance digital media and accessories, today at Photokina (Hall 1.2, B-058) introduced two new Professional CompactFlash(TM) Readers designed to address professional photographers' need for almost instantaneous data transfer and an improved project workflow. Built with material similar to a digital camera, with a unique industrial design of hardened plastic and rubber over mold, the new card readers can be easily stacked and daisy-chained together for concurrent download of images. In addition, the new card readers support Lexar's ActiveMemory(TM) System for improved photography workflow.
Delivering image read and write speeds in excess of 10MB per second, Lexar's new CompactFlash Readers are available in USB 2.0 and Firewire formats. The Firewire units can be daisy-chained together directly, while up to four USB 2.0 units can be connected to execute simultaneous downloads via a 4-port USB hub. The firmware of both card readers can be upgradeable for possible future enhancements.
“Beyond performance specifications -- that are among the most impressive in the photography business -- the card readers are designed with the creative, professional photographer in mind,” said John Omvik, director of professional product marketing, Lexar. “Developed to save time in the professional's day by providing an exceptionally fast rate of transferring images, the cards also provide for simultaneous downloads from multiple CompactFlash cards. In addition, our industrial designers considered the photographer's working environment and created card readers that will appeal to a broad user group.”
Part of Lexar's ActiveMemory System, the new card readers will also deliver even further optimized workflow and will enable users to achieve enhanced productivity both in and out of the photo studio. The ActiveMemory System streamlines the professional photographer's workflow by reducing administrative redundancies and saving valuable time in the work day.
Lexar's Professional Series Firewire and USB 2.0 card readers are compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems and will be available in the fall of 2004.
About Lexar Media, Inc.
Lexar is a leading marketer and manufacturer of flash memory cards, USB flash drives, card readers and ATA controller technology for the digital photography, consumer electronics, industrial and communications markets. The company holds over 76 issued or allowed controller and system patents, and licenses its technology to companies including Olympus, Samsung Electronics, SanDisk Corporation and Sony. For more information, please call 1-800-789-9418 or visit http://www.lexar.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements which are subject to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include statements related to the benefits of and consumer demand for Lexar's products and the growth opportunities available to Lexar. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements. These risks include that the growth and success of our business depends on our ability to achieve and maintain technology leadership, and sell and market products that are commercially accepted. Readers should also refer to the risk factors described in our filings with the SEC, including our most recently filed Form 10-K and Form 10-Q. We assume no obligation to update the information in this release.
Lexar and the Lexar logo are trademarks of Lexar Media, Inc. Lexar Media, Inc. is an authorized licensee of the CompactFlash trademark. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.“
Press Release
Creo Leaf and GretagMacbeth perfect custom color profiling for Leaf digital photographers
PHOTOKINA 2004, COLOGNE, GERMANY -- September 28, 2004 -- Creo Inc. (NASDAQ: CREO; TSX: CRE) announces that Creo Leaf, a leading supplier of digital camera backs, and GretagMacbeth, a worldwide technological leader in color management solutions, have entered into a cooperative agreement to provide Leaf customers the ability to customize ICC color profiles to fit different lighting conditions based on the shooting environment.
Integration for Better Color Management...
The Creo Leaf(r) Capture 10 application provides a complete set of professional tools for the operation of Leaf digital camera backs, including the new Leaf(r) Aptus digital camera back. The application enables image capture through final output. Integrating GretagMacbeth profile creation and editing into the Leaf Capture application ensures accurate, reliable and predictable color even with changing lighting conditions through the creation of customized ICC color profiles.
Lighting characteristics of shooting locations vary tremendously. Custom color profiling enables the photographer to achieve exact colors by compensating for the specific lighting of each shoot. The editing capability enables the photographer to tune the colors to match specific requirements based on the subject, client preferences and output device.
The new color management and color profile customization capabilities of the Leaf Capture 10 application will be demonstrated at the Creo Leaf stand (Hall 14.2 stand M040) and at the GretagMacbeth stand (Hall 14.1 stand A034) at Photokina, September 28 through October 3, in Cologne, Germany. Register for demonstrations at the Creo Leaf stand online at www.creo.com/leaf.
About Creo Leaf: A History of Innovation...
Leaf introduced the world's first digital camera back, the Leaf DCB, at Photokina 1992. Leaf has continuously led the professional digital photography market with innovative solutions. At Photokina 2002, Leaf introduced Leaf Valeo portable power. Later, Leaf introduced the world's first portable 22 mega pixel and 17 mega pixel camera backs - Leaf Valeo 22Wi and Leaf Valeo 17Wi, with innovative wireless display technology. Other current Leaf products include the Leaf(r) Capture V8 and Leaf(r) oXYgen color editing applications. For more information about Leaf, visit www.creo.com/leaf.
About Creo...
Creo Inc. is a global company with key strengths in imaging and software technology. The leading provider of prepress systems, Creo helps over 25,000 customers worldwide adopt digital production methods which reduce costs, increase print quality and allow them to serve their customers more efficiently. Based on a solid foundation of intellectual property, Creo has an unmatched range of technology solutions that address the needs of commercial, publication, on demand, packaging, and newspaper printers, and creative professionals. Creo product lines include software and hardware for computer-to-plate imaging, systems for digital photography, scanning, and proofing, as well as printing plates and proofing media. Creo also supplies on-press imaging technology, components for digital presses, color servers, and high-speed digital printers.
Based in Vancouver, Canada, Creo employs more than 4,200 people and reported fiscal 2003 revenue of US$578 million. Creo trades on NASDAQ (CREO) and the TSX (CRE). www.creo.com
About GretagMacbeth...
GretagMacbeth is a worldwide technological leader providing color management solutions for graphic arts, photography, digital imaging, paints, plastics, apparel, textiles and automotive, among other industries. The company, part of Amazys Holding AG headquartered in Regensdorf, Switzerland, maintains offices in the Americas, Europe and Asia. GretagMacbeth trains and supports customers worldwide and is an ISO-9001 certified company. For additional information in the United States and Canada, please call 845-565-7660. In Europe, please call +41 1 842 24 00 or visit our websites at www.gretagmacbeth.com or www.i1color.com.
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(c) 2004 Creo Inc. The Creo product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or service marks of Creo Inc. and may be registered in certain jurisdictions. Other company and brand, product and service names are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Data subject to change without notice.
Press Release
Carl Zeiss and Sinar Agree on Strategic Cooperation for Digital High-end Photography
Swiss camera manufacturer Sinar relies on Lenses from Oberkochen, Germany
Oberkochen/Cologne, Germany; Feuerthalen, Switzerland – September 28, 2004 – the transition from chemical film to direct digital exposures already enables medium format image sensors to achieve the extraordinary quality that was previously only possible with chemical large format cameras. As a result, digital medium format is considered the upper class of photography, whether adapted to special cameras in a studio or mobile with SLR cameras. Carl Zeiss, worldwide leading provider of lenses for medium format photography with more than 40 different types for four different camera manufacturers, announces its cooperation with Sinar, the Swiss manufacturer of top-class cameras for professional photography.
The Sinaron Digital AF program from Carl Zeiss for Sinar is being launched with four autofocus lenses. The optical design of the lenses is optimized for digital high-end photography. Together with the Sinar Digitalbacks, with 22 megapixel resolution and 49x36mm image format, and the Sinar digital cameras, they form a service package.
Carl J. Koch, Marketing Director at Sinar says “our demanding customers continually requested more powerful lenses for their demanding, on-location shootings. Contacting Carl Zeiss was the logical result. We look forward to offering a product line in the future that stretches from lenses to digital image receivers, also in a compact, modular professional camera system, the Sinar m, which fulfills the highest professional demands.” For Christian Bannert, head of development in the Camera Lens Division at Carl Zeiss, this cooperation made complete sense: “When Sinar approached us two years ago at Photokina, we quickly realized that two similar realities would come together. The culture of both companies fits well with the drive for precision and the clear goal of providing professional photographers with the best equipment.
With Hasselblad, Rollei, Alpa and Kyocera with the Contax 645, Sinar is Carl Zeiss’ fifth partner in the medium format segment. Dr. Winfried Scherle, head of the Camera Lens Division at Carl Zeiss is convinced that ”the cooperation with Sinar will enable us to expand our strong position in medium format. The growth potential is there.“ Delivery is scheduled to begin in early 2005.
Carl Zeiss is a leading international group of companies operating worldwide in the optical and opto-electronic industry. Carl Zeiss AG is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany.
The Carl Zeiss Group is structured as six business groups that operate with sole responsibility. They are generally ranked first or second in the three strategic markets of biosciences and medical technology, system solutions for industry and optical consumer goods. They offer products and services for biomedical research and medical technology, system solutions for the semiconductor, automotive and mechanical engineering industries, as well as high quality consumer goods such as eyeglass lenses, camera lenses and binoculars.
The Carl Zeiss Group is directly represented in more than 30 countries and operates production facilities in Europe, America and Asia. In fiscal year 2002/03 the global workforce of approximately 14,000 employees generated revenue of about EUR 2 billion. Further information is available at www.zeiss.com.
The Contax i4R is a space age designed looking digital camera with a sliding lens, 1.5inch LCD, 4 megapixel CCD sensor, fixed focal length lens (39mm) and dimensions of 94 x 39 x 21 mm.
'The Contax i4R offers a Carl Zeiss Tessar T* 6.5mm lens (equivalent to approx 39mm in 35mm film format) consisting of 4 elements in 3 groups and includes two aspheric and one high index lens element. The Carl Zeiss Tessar T* 65.mm f/2.8 lens has been developed specifically for digital usage and achieves outstanding color reproduction and rich color gradation. In addition, Carl Zeiss’ special multi-layer T* coating dramatically reduces flare and ghosting which results in crisp, ultra sharp images. For greater control, the i4R has the ability to focus down to an amazing 5cm (2 inches) in macro mode (lens element surface to subject distance).
The i4R also incorporates 6x digital zoom and includes up to 8x digital zoom in playback mode.'
Get the full specifications on the Contax i4R at its official site.
The Contax U4R is a 4 megapixel camera with a 2inch LCD, 30fps movie mode, 3x Optical Zoom. It comes in 3 colors (orange blue and black).
'The Contax U4R offers a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar T* 5.8-17.4mm f2.8-4.7 lens (equivalent to approx. 38mm to 115mm in 35mm film format) consisting of 6 elements in 6 groups and includes three aspheric and two high index lens elements. This Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar T* 5.8-17.4mm lens has been developed specifically for digital usage and achieves outstanding color reproduction and rich gradations. In addition, Carl Zeiss’ special multi-layer T* coating dramatically reduces flare and ghosting which results is crisp, ultra sharp images. For greater creative control, 28mm filters can be used via the included filter adapter.
The U4R also incorporates a 3x optical zoom and 6x digital zoom for a maximum of 18x total zoom and includes up to 8x digital zoom in play back mode.'
Get the CONTAX Kyocera U4R Digital Camera
PHOTOgraphic Magazine reviews the Contax U4R Digicam and writes - 'The U4R features an Enhanced Continuous AF mode that delivers precise results, even when shooting moving subjects. Also contributing to the camera’s focusing accuracy is a sophisticated multi-AF system in which the U4R automatically selects one of nine focusing points. We used this system almost exclusively, with very consistent results. It worked particularly well when photographing off-center subjects, enabling us to avoid the time-consuming extra step of pre-focusing on the main subject and recomposing before taking the shot.'
Read more about the Contax U4R digital camera
SanDisk Press Release
SANDISK LAUNCHES SHOOT & STORE FLASH CARDS IN EUROPE
Low-Cost “Consumable” Cards Will Be Distributed Where Film and Processing Are Offered
COLOGNE, GERMANY, Sept. 29, 2004 – SanDisk ® Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) today announced that it is introducing its Shoot & Store ™ line of budget-priced flash memory cards in Europe through a variety of stores that offer film and processing services. The announcement was made during a press conference at Photokina 2004, where SanDisk is exhibiting at Hall 1.2, Aisle A, Booth 059 of the Cologne Exhibition Center.
The cards, which are rewritable and function just like standard cards, are offered in capacities of 32 megabytes (MB), which holds up to 50 photos, and 64MB, which holds up to 100 photos, when used at a resolution setting of 1 megapixel*. Shoot & Store is aimed at consumers who want the convenience of leaving their flash cards with professional photo finishers -- as they were accustomed to doing with traditional analog film -- or who don’t have time or inclination to download their images to a computer or burn them to a disk. The line is sold in four formats: CompactFlash ®, SD ™, Memory Stick PRO ™ and xD-Picture Card ™.
Shoot & Store cards started shipping to the United Kingdom this month and by October will be sent to other countries in Europe. Retail channels vary from country to country, but range from photo specialty stores to large discount department stores. In the United States, the line is offered in more than 10,000 stores, including major drug stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and large, value-oriented department stores.
In the U.S., suggested retail prices range from $9.99 for the 32MB card to $14.99 for the 64MB card. European prices are expected to range from approximately €10 for 32MB to approximately €15 for 64MB, both excluding VAT.
With their affordable low prices and convenient availability, the cards can be viewed as “consumable” – just like traditional 35millimeter analog film – and used for archiving digital pictures. Consumers can delete unwanted images, use the cards as “digital negatives” to permanently store treasured images just as in the “old shoe box” system, and purchase new cards when traveling. They can also leave their cards with one-hour photo finishers and order prints in the same way they’ve been doing with rolls of film. Digital images on Shoot & Store cards will not deteriorate over time and are expected to last indefinitely as long as the cards are kept in a dry place at room temperature.
To make it easier for consumers to determine the number of images they might get with a Shoot & Store card, the packages and card labels give approximate capacities. For instance, a 64MB card offers up to 100 images at a resolution of 1 megapixel and 11 images at 5 megapixels*.
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, California.
Press Release
SANDISK LEAPFROGS COMPETITION — QUADRUPLES TOP CAPACITY OF ITS HIGH-SPEED ULTRA II FLASH MEMORY CARDS
New Cards Include World’s First 8-Gigabyte (GB) Type I High Speed CompactFlash Card
COLOGNE, GERMANY, Sep. 29, 2004 – SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) announced today that is has quadrupled the capacity of its high-speed SanDisk Ultra® II line of flash memory cards that includes the development of a new 8GB CompactFlash® Type I card. The top end SanDisk Ultra II Memory Stick PRO and SD cards now boast 4GB and 2GB of capacity respectively. The announcement was made at the Photokina trade show where SanDisk is demonstrating products in Hall 1.2, aisle A, Booth 059.
Each SanDisk Ultra II card features a minimum write speed of 9 megabytes per second (MB/sec.) and a minimum read speed of 10MB/sec.* (Results based on testing with the popular HDBENCH benchmark software; actual results in digital cameras will vary by camera model.) The Ultra II cards are primarily targeted at serious photographers with 4-megapixel or higher resolution digital cameras that require fast, high capacity digital film cards to quickly shoot many high resolution images.
Martin Achatzi, owner and general manager at Foto Achatzi in Bad Laasphe, a leading photography retailer, said, “SanDisk is a well known brand and the SanDisk Ultra II cards have been very popular with digital photographers who use cameras such as the Canon EOS Rebel or the Nikon D70. Our customers expect high quality products with matching performance and we believe the new high capacity Ultra II cards will exceed the expectations of our customers.”
Tanya Chuang, SanDisk retail product marketing manager, said, “The award-winning SanDisk Ultra II line represents an ideal combination of high capacities, durability and proven performance at exceptional price points. These cards are designed for improved performance in a wide range of cameras rather than a select few. Once again, the SanDisk Ultra II line raises the performance and capacity bar that all other competitors will struggle to meet.”
The SanDisk Ultra II cards are designed to be a reasonably priced, high performance solution for the photography channel while the new SanDisk Extreme III line, with its even higher performance, is for the professional photographer who needs the absolute highest performance and maximum reliability.
Pricing and Availability
The SanDisk Ultra II product line is available in CompactFlash, Memory Stick PRO and SD formats. Suggested retail prices and availability are as follows:
Capacities US$ € (ex. VAT) Availability
Ultra II CF 256MB - 2GB $49.99 - $249.99 €44.00 - €245.00 Now
4GB $479.99 €465.00 October
8GB $959.99 €930.00 November
Ultra II MS PRO 256MB – 1GB $74.99 - $249.99 €73.00 – €259.00 Now
2GB – 4GB $479.99 - $959.99 €495.00 - €990.00 November
Ultra II SD 256MB – 512MB $64.99 - $89.99 €45.00 - €72.00 Now
1GB – 2GB $119.99 - $239.99 €119.00 - €239.00 November
SanDisk Ultra II cards are available at most of the 80,000 consumer electronics stores and other retail outlets where SanDisk products are sold worldwide.
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.
The matters discussed in this news release contain forward looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties as described under the caption, “Factors That May Affect Future Results” in the company’s annual report on Form 10-K-A and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The companies assume no obligation to update the information in this release.
* Results based on testing with HDBENCH benchmark software. Actual results in digital cameras will vary by model.
SanDisk Press Release
SANDISK INTRODUCES EXTREME III, WORLD’S FASTEST, HIGHEST PERFORMING FLASH MEMORY CARD
Extreme III Product Line Based On SanDisk’s New ESP Technology, A Major Technological Breakthrough
COLOGNE, GERMANY, SEPT. 29, 2004 – SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) today introduced the world’s fastest flash memory cards – the SanDisk Extreme ™ III line of CompactFlash â , SD ™ and Memory Stick PRO ™ digital film cards. The CompactFlash and SD cards have minimum write and read speeds of 20 megabytes per second (MB/sec.).* Memory Stick PRO has minimum write and read speeds of 18 MB/sec.* The SanDisk Extreme III cards, which range in capacity between one and four gigabytes (GB), have essentially double the performance speeds of SanDisk’s predecessor Extreme product line which currently has the fastest working cards in many of today’s leading digital single lens reflex (SLR) cameras.**
The SanDisk Extreme III product line was introduced at a SanDisk press conference at the Photokina imaging show where SanDisk is demonstrating products in Hall 1.2, Aisle A, Booth 059.
The new SanDisk Extreme III cards are targeted primarily at advanced and professional photographers who require high-performance flash memory storage cards for new high-end digital cameras. The cards will start shipping worldwide in October-November to high-end, retail photo specialty stores.
Yoram Cedar, SanDisk’s senior vice-president of engineering, said, “SanDisk has developed a new ESP (Enhanced Super-Parallel Processing) technology that gives our new SanDisk Extreme III line its performance advantages. ESP technology is a major technology breakthrough that combines our in-house design of both NAND flash memory chips and controller chips using advanced 32-bit RISC processing and leading edge algorithms. Our engineers worked closely with major camera manufacturers in developing our new ESP technology.”
Cedar also explained, “ESP has super-parallel write and read operations that are coupled with an accelerated flash data bus architecture to allow data to be transferred at twice the rate of most competitive cards. In addition, the ESP architecture streamlines every aspect of read and write data transfer operations through advanced hardware automation. The ESP architecture effectively removes the card as the bottleneck in data storage applications.”
Rob Galbraith, photojournalist and author of www.robgalbraith.com who was the first to test engineering samples of the new cards, said, “SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash and SD cards are the fastest we’ve ever tested in card-to-computer transfers, by a significant margin, and at minimum appear to about match the original Extreme’s write speed performance in current digital SLR cameras. As new digital SLR models are designed to utilize the faster transfer modes, it’s likely that we’ll then see Extreme III cards able to write pictures in the camera significantly faster than the already speedy Extreme line. In short, Sandisk appears poised to remain the maker of the fastest CompactFlash and SD cards for the serious and pro digital photographer.”
With many professional and advanced photographers shooting pictures in extreme weather conditions ranging from African deserts to the Arctic, the SanDisk Extreme III cards also boast the industry’s widest guaranteed operating temperature range from a freezing minus 13F (minus 25C) to a scorching 185F (plus 85C). The cards also include RescuePRO ™ software that allows photographers to easily recover accidentally deleted images, lost digital images or data.
Michelle Slaughter, director of digital photography trends at the InfoTrends/CAP Ventures market research group, said, “With more professional photographers and advanced amateurs increasingly using high performance digital cameras, there is a growing market for flash memory cards that allow the cameras to perform to their maximum capability. With their high performance ratings, SanDisk’s Extreme III cards certainly should enable the cards to keep up with the speeds of the cameras so professional and advanced photographers don’t miss any important images.”
Kazuyuki Kazami, general manager, marketing department, imaging company, Nikon, said, “High performance memory card products are necessary for the high features and performance of digital still cameras, so that Extreme III would be a very welcome product for the market.”
Tanya Chuang, a SanDisk retail product marketing manager, said, “We have designed our new SanDisk Extreme III product line for advanced and professional photographers. We have significantly improved the speed of our cards and added all the bells and whistles that these high-end photographers need. These features include RescuePRO data and image recovery software, for recovering accidentally deleted images, and our extended operating temperature range, which enables them to shoot pictures anywhere in the world under virtually any conditions. And the dedicated technical support included with SanDisk Extreme III provides the fast help they require to keep shooting.”
SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash cards will be sold in 1, 2 and 4GB capacities with suggested retail prices ranging from $139.99 to $559.99 (€135 to €540, excluding VAT). The SanDisk Extreme III SD card will be sold in a 1GB capacity at a suggested price of $139.99 (€139, excluding VAT). And Memory Stick PRO Extreme III cards, sized in 1 and 2GB capacities, will carry suggested price tags of $279.99 and $559.99 (€289 and €576, excluding VAT).
SanDisk Extreme III cards will carry a 10-year warranty in Europe, the Middle
East and Africa but will have a lifetime limited warranty in the rest of the world. Photographers who purchase the cards also will have access to a dedicated toll-free number for technical support questions. The RescuePRO image recovery software on the cards is compatible with both Windows and Mac and requires no driver download or special card reader.
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.
The matters discussed in this news release contain forward looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties as described under the caption, “Factors That May Affect Future Results” in the company’s annual report on Form 10-K-A and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The companies assume no obligation to update the information in this release.
Sandisk Press Release
SanDisk introduces three new memory card readers— transfer photos, video, music and data quickly and easily
Multi-Card Readers Support Wide Range of Card Formats; Feature Transfer Button To Automatically Move Photos To Your Computer
COLOGNE, GERMANY , Sep. 29, 2004 – SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) today introduced three high-speed card readers, the SanDisk ImageMate â 12-in-1, ImageMate 5-in-1 and ImageMate CompactFlash â (CF) readers. Ideal for owners of digital cameras and other consumer electronics devices, each new reader includes a one-step transfer button and software for the PC to simplify the most common tasks that people want to do with their photos—transfer them to the hard drive, rename files and email them. The ImageMate readers are designed to quickly transfer pictures, digital video, music or any type of data to a computer via a high-speed USB 2.0 port.
For easier image organizing, sharing and viewing, each reader is bundled with Adobe â Photoshop â Album 2.0 Starter Edition software. SanDisk announced the new line of ImageMate card readers at Photokina where SanDisk is demonstrating products in Hall 1.2, aisle A, Booth #059.
Matthijs Hutten, product marketing manager at SanDisk, said, “Most consumers want to transfer their photos from the storage card in their digital camera to the computer. We believe the transfer button on these new readers is one of the easiest ways to do this and is much more versatile and cost effective than purchasing a separate docking station for the camera.”
ImageMate 12-in-1 Reader
For maximum versatility, the 12-in-1 reader supports virtually every memory card format currently available with no additional adapters required. In addition, multiple cards can be inserted simultaneously for card-to-card data transfers. It comes with a docking station that is convenient for desktop owners who also want to use the ImageMate with their portable computers. For travel, the multi-card reader can be removed from its docking station and used with a short cable included with the reader/writer that allows for easy plug-in to the USB port of portable computers.
The new reader can also be removed from its docking station for lightweight travel. Suggested retail price is $34.99.
ImageMate 5-in-1 Reader
For more format options than a single card reader, the 5-in-1 reader easily transfers files to and from multiple memory card formats. Suggested retail price is $19.99.
CompactFlash Reader
The single card reader easily transfers files to and from CompactFlash Type I and II cards. Suggested retail price is $19.99.
The new readers will be available from October 2004 at many of the 80,000 stores worldwide that carry SanDisk products.
All SanDisk ImageMate readers are true “plug and play” due to USB Mass Storage Class (MSC) compliance when used with Windows ME, Windows 2000 (SP3+), Windows XP and Mac OS 10.1.2+. The readers are fully compatible with Windows 98SE, ME, 2000, XP and Mac OS 9.2+, Mac OS X v10.1.2+.
Sandisk Press Release
SANDISK UNVEILS NEW DIGITAL PHOTO TV PLAYER THAT ALSO DISPLAYS VIDEO CLIPS AND DOUBLES AS AN MP3 MUSIC JUKEBOX
Versatile and Easy-to-Use SanDisk Photo Album Will Be Sold For $49.99 This Holiday Season
COLOGNE, GERMANY, Sept. 29, 2004 – SanDisk Corporation today introduced the SanDisk ® Photo Album, a compact, sleek and easy-to-use device that lets consumers display digital still pictures or video clips on their TV sets and even attach soundtracks to slide shows. Using any one of eight flash memory card formats as well as portable USB flash drives, the unit also enables consumers to play MP3 music files on their home audio systems. The media player was launched at a SanDisk press conference during the Photokina 2004 imaging trade show, where the company is exhibiting products in Hall 1.2, Aisle A, Booth 059 of the Cologne Exhibition Center.
The SanDisk Photo Album (SPA) allows consumers to bypass their computers entirely when storing, organizing and viewing images from a digital camera. Rather than having friends or family crowding around a small PC monitor, a user can attach the SanDisk Photo Album to any television set that has an audio/video input, then show larger-than-life images and video clips. The device comes with a remote control that allows for multiple functions. With a suggested retail price of US $49.99( approximately €46 excluding VAT ), the SanDisk Photo Album will be sold worldwide through consumer electronics and photo retailers.
“Market research suggests that consumers are looking for non-PC solutions to view and share their digital photos and video clips,” said Chris Chute, senior analyst with IDC, an international research company. “The SanDisk Photo Album is positioned correctly for consumers to take greater advantage of their personal digital content.”
On the front side, the SPA supports eight flash memory card formats in four slots -- for CompactFlash ® Type I/II, SD ™/MultiMediaCard ™, Memory Stick ™/Memory Stick PRO ™, and SmartMedia ™/xD. On the rear side there are two USB sockets, one that can connect to a PC (the device can also be used as an 8-in-1 card reader/writer), and another that can host a portable USB flash drive such as a SanDisk Cruzer ® Mini, Cruzer Micro or Cruzer Titanium. Also on the back is a slot for a second CompactFlash Card (not included). This card can be used as “archiving memory” for storing extended slide shows from images that are displayed from flash cards on the front side or from the USB flash drive. This rear card also can store and replay video clips and MP3 music selections.
Dimensions of the SanDisk Photo Album are 7.4 x 2.6 x 0.8 inches (187 x 66 x 20 millimeters). In addition to standard JPEG still images and MP3 files, the media player supports Motion JPEG and MPEG-1 for video.
“The SanDisk Photo Album provides a convenient and versatile way for digital camera users to show their photos and video clips in a continuous slide show in the comfort of their living rooms,” said Matthijs Hutten, product marketing manager for SanDisk’s viewers and readers. “And while they are browsing through their images for the first time, they can instantly create a photo album by pushing the Store button on their favorite pictures.”
One of the key features of the SanDisk Photo Album is the ability to store images in a format that is optimal for television viewing. While the visual quality is similar to the original, higher-resolution version, the actual file size that is saved is much smaller. Therefore, it is possible for a 256-megabyte CF card inserted in the rear slot to hold up to 4,000 photos* for TV playback. That can represent years of memories – vacations, get-togethers with family or friends, even sports – without the need to pull out bulky scrapbooks, shoeboxes full of prints or fragile CD-ROMs.
Want to check out some music? Playing MP3 tracks through television speakers or through a separate audio system is easy. Just load the SanDisk Photo Album with a flash card or USB flash drive that contains MP3 files and it will play them just like CDs on a CD player. When the device is connected to a TV, the user can jump to specific selections from the music menu that is displayed on the screen. Also, it is possible to drop MP3 files onto the same card that stores images for TV playback and automatically have background music for slide shows.
“For about the same price as a video game, the SanDisk Photo Album enables users to view, share and store images and videos without using a computer,” said Hutten. “It packs a great deal of value and functionality into a compact design, and it’s a wonderful accessory for anyone with a digital still camera or the desire to play MP3 music through a home audio system.”
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.
* Based on an average of 60 KB per digital photo in TV (VGA) resolution. More photos can be accommodated with higher-capacity CF cards.
The Fujifilm S5100 is an updated version of the popular S5000. It has a 4 megapixel sensor and 10x Zoom.
Imaging Resource reviews the Fujifilm Finepix S5100 and writes - 'The previous Fuji FinePix 2800 and 3800 Zoom cameras were exceptional values for the money, and the updated Fuji FinePix S5100 offers the same great value with the addition of a 4.0-megapixel CCD and a longer 10x zoom lens. The S5100's higher resolution is a welcome improvement, providing great image quality for a budget-priced digital camera, and its 10x optical zoom is excellent for distant subjects. Its color is more accurate than that of most consumer digicams, although that means it's less saturated on bright colors than most consumer cameras. My only real complaint about its images is that they tend to be a little contrasty. But then, most consumers seem to like more contrast than I do personally, so most folks would likely find the S5100 pleasing in this regard. Overall, the Fuji S5100 has just about all an enthusiast user could want in terms of expanded photographic controls, including full Manual exposure mode for ultimate creativity. About all it lacks relative to its competitors in the 10x zoom category is image stabilization.'
'The Fujifilm FinePix S5100 is a worthy compliment to the S5000, adding more effective megapixels to its conventional 1/2.7-inch CCD. The 4.23 total and 4 effective megapixels can create great pictures up to 11 x 17 inches, which is larger than what the average shooter will print. The SLR-shaped FinePix S5100 has a 37-370mm 10x optical zoom lens. The best aspect about this camera is its versatility; with plenty of automatic and manual functions, beginning users can advance on the S5100. The S5100 has a professional façade. Formed in a lightweight medium-sized black body, the camera aims to bridge the gap between the novice point-and-shoot camera and oversized SLRs.'
CNET reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S5100 and writes - 'The Fujifilm FinePix S5100 replaces the S5000, which we praised for its features and form factor but criticized for subpar image quality and shortcomings in its design. The new model offers the same 10X zoom lens and a handful of feature and performance improvements, although some design drawbacks remain. The biggest change is the sensor; the previous model's 3-megapixel SuperCCD HR has been replaced with a conventional 4-megapixel CCD, and image quality is much improved.'
PC Mag reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S5100 and writes - 'Very good to excellent image quality and good performance make the Fujifilm FinePix S5100 a fine choice if you're looking for a superzoom camera at a competitive price. But, if money is less of an object, consider our EC, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ15, which is nearly as fast and adds image stabilization, a longer zoom, and a lens that's got an even wider maximum aperture at max telephoto.'
DC Resource reviews the Fujifilm Finepix S5100 and writes - 'Fuji has made some nice improvements since the S5000, and I now feel comfortable recommending the latest version, the FinePix S5100. The S5100 is a mid-sized, SLR-style (albeit plastic) ultra zoom camera which has a nice selection of manual features and good photo quality (though there are a few issues to note). The S5100 looks like a little digital SLR, though the build quality isn't nearly as nice. Still, it's not bad for a plastic camera. Unlike on some cameras (even metal ones!), Fuji put solid plastic doors over all the slots and compartments on the camera. The S5100 has full manual control over shutter speed, aperture, white balance, and focus, though some of them could be better implemented. The full shutter speed range is only available in full manual mode, which I'm not a fan of. Also, manual focus is basically useless, since you have no idea as to the current focus distance, and there's no "focus check" feature either. Performance on the S5100 is average in most areas and better than average in terms of shutter lag and playback speed. The camera has an AF-assist lamp for help focusing in low light situations. Photo quality was good, though noise levels were higher than I'd like to see and there was noticeable vignetting in nearly every photo I took. Redeye and purple fringing were not problems, to my surprise. The S5100's movie mode is excellent, featuring unlimited recording at 640 x 480, 30 frames/second. The camera supports conversion lenses, as well.'
DP Review reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S5100 Zoom digital camera and writes - 'Like the models that came before it, the S5500/5100 is designed to be a true 'photographer's camera'; offering true SLR-like handling, fuss-free operation, and plenty of options and controls, whilst remaining perfectly usable as a 'point-and-shoot'. The screen could be bigger, the EVF brighter and smoother, and the vignetting is something Fujifilm needs to address in the S5100's successor, but overall this is a significant upgrade to the promising, but flawed, S5000.'
Matsushita Electric Press Release
Osaka Japan -- Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (NYSE:MC), best known for its Panasonic brand products, today announced it will introduce "PRO HIGH SPEED Series" 1GB and 512MB SD Memory Cards this Fall that doubled the internal data transfer rates. These two SD Memory Cards use Panasonic's new LSI architecture and proprietary high speed technology to achieve a data transfer speed of up to 20MB/s.1 Named the "PRO HIGH SPEED Series", the new memory cards will feature distinctive, newly-designed labels and packaging.
Sale of the memory cards worldwide is scheduled to begin in October. In Japan, 1GB and 512MB SD Memory Cards will be available on October 15, without manufacturer's suggested retail prices.
New Product Feature Outline
The new PRO HIGH SPEED Series SD Memory Card can achieve data transfer speeds of up to 20MB/s for an SD Memory Card when used with SD products that comply with a newly upgraded interface. Panasonic will also simultaneously launch a Cardbus compatible PC Card Adaptor as a host device to enable high-speed data transfer.
The name PRO HIGH SPEED indicates that the cards provide high-level performance compatible with the standard demanded by video professionals. The basic construction of the PRO HIGH SPEED Series card is employed in the recording medium (P2 Card) used by the Panasonic professional camera DVCPRO P2 system, which delivers the