Just a reminder that our Advanced Portable (Strobe) Flash workshop, is taking place this Thursday (May 17th) at Calumets Drummond St store.

It is close to being full.

For details or to book: Click Here.

End. (15/05/12).

Just a reminder that on May 17th we have at Calumets Drummond St London store our Advanced Portable Flash workshop.

Not only do we unravel real world lighting solutions, but delegates  get to shoot some of their own example shots, plus of course discuss their personal lighting needs.

For details and or to book: Click Here.

Sekonic are the most prominent light and flash meters available in the UK. At least, certainly since the demise of Minolta and it’s range.

There are certainly some fine prodcuts in the line-up.

And for those contemplating a purchase, there is now an extended warranty included by the UK distributers. Here are the details:

All UK Sekonic Meters Will Now Carry A 5 Year Warranty

Image © Sekonic Corp

With immediate effect, all Sekonic meters supplied via JP Distribution and its authorised UK dealer network, will carry a 5 year warranty.

JP Distribution and its in-house service partner, JP Service Solutions, will now honour a 5 year warranty for any UK sourced* meter purchased from May 1st 2012 onwards.

This warranty covers labour and spares for units, which develop any issue due to manufacturers fault or malfunction, but does not cover accidental damage or customer misuse.

Registration for any authorised UK unit must be made via the Sekonic website, www.sekonic.com

*The extended 5 year warranty will only be honoured for units supplied by an authorised UK dealer, where a unit has been registered via the Sekonic website,

End. (03/05/12).

Nikon have also some offers available. These are based on purchasing D800/E or F4 cameras with specific lenses. Only fly in the ointment with that of course is the current and massive waiting list for the cameras.

Here are the details:

NIKON’S SPECIAL-FX LENS CASHBACK OFFER

London, UK, 1st May 2012: Nikon UK today launches a new, FX lens promotion offering up to £180/€210 cashback on purchases of selected FX lenses between 1st May – 30th September 2012 (inclusive).

Customers are entitled to claim up to £180/€210 cashback when purchasing any of the selected lenses (listed below) in conjunction with a Nikon D4, D800 or D800E body. Cashback can be redeemed for up to two lenses per body. The promotion will run from 1st May – 30th September inclusive and all claims must be received by the 31st October 2012 in order to qualify. See full details of the promotion below:

Image © Nikon Corporation

Body D4, D800 or D800E
D4, D800 or D800E
NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8
£180/€210
D4, D800 or D800E
NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8
£80/€95
D4, D800 or D800E
NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G
£50/€60
D4, D800 or D800E
NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G
£75/€95
D4, D800 or D800E
NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G
£75/€95
D4, D800 or D800E
NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G
£60/€70
D4, D800 or D800E
NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G
£35/€40

Nikon’s FX D-SLRs are supported by a superb range of high-performance NIKKOR lenses, whose optical designs have been developed to maximise FX-format potential.

Hiromasa Sebata, Product Manager for Nikon Professional Products says: “Customers wishing to take their photography to the next level should look no further than our latest range of FX format cameras which, together with Nikon’s renowned lenses, allow photographers to push the boundaries of photography – all at incredible value this summer!”

For more information on the promotion, and how to submit your claim, please visit: www.nikon.co.uk/cashback.

Terms and conditions apply. Offer is subject to availability.

End. (01/05/12).

Pentax have announced some cash back offers on the K5 D-SLR.

Here are the details:

PENTAX offers cashback on top-of-the range K-5 DSLR

PENTAX RICOH IMAGING UK LTD is giving consumers a fantastic opportunity this spring by offering a cashback promotion on one of its most popular DSLR cameras – the K-5.

Image © Pentax/Ricoh Imaging Company

Keen photographers looking to invest in a fantastic top-of-the-range DSLR can purchase the high performance PENTAX K-5 and receive £50 cash back, on the body only and £80 cashback on the K-5 with any PENTAX lens.

The K-5 digital SLR is a solidly built and durable camera, designed for reliable operation and performance even in the harshest environments. This model comes equipped with a host of advanced photographic tools, including shake reduction and 16 megapixels for the easy creation of great pictures.

The cash back campaign will run from 1 May until 15 July 2012.

Consumers can visit www.pentax.co.uk/k5 cashback to download all the information they need to claim their cashback and PENTAX stockists.

RRPs:

K-5 body only – £779.99

K-5 +18-55mm WR – £849.99

K-5 +18-55mm WR + 50-200mm WR – £1049.99

K-5 +18-135mm WR – £1149.99

End. (01/05/12).

Digital Photographer Magazine has kindly written a feature on a recent studio lighting workshop with Park Cameras.

It is in the current (May) issue.

Some equipment issues, plus a model that had to be replaced literally at the last minute, due to illness on the day, still did not stop us from having a good day.

My thanks to all who took part, and of course put the feature together.

End. (01/05/12).

Image © Nikon Corporation

Image © Nikon Corporation

In recent months I have behind the scenes, been doing some work with Nikon and the V1/J1 models.

Next Friday (June 27th), we have a half day introductory workshop at Nikon UK LTD’s training facilities.

People seem to have got lots of useful information and advice from this previously.

So if you are a Nikon 1 owner, starting with digital, or maybe a Nikon D SLR user, considering one to use with some existing Nikkor lenses via the adapter, this could be very helpful.

For more details or to book: Click Here.

Next Thursday we have our Understanding Portable (Strobe) Flash From The Ground-Up workshop @ Calumet’s Drummond Street store.

So if you shoot with Canon, Nikon or another brand, this not only takes the mystery out of how to use your flash unit(s) with clear explanations, but as many often comment, far more by way of real world guidance. For more information and or to book: Click Here.

End. (20/03/12).

Alongside the new camera, is a lens designed to cater for our cameras increasing resolution. The AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G is an interesting addition to the ‘G’ series and the first new option in this focal length for quite some time.

More thoughts later on the new products.Here are the official details:

Nikon Launches AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G

Fast, Wide-Angle FX-Format Lens

RRP: £619.99 / €739.00
Sales start date: 24th May 2012

London, UK 19th April 2012: Nikon today announces a new fast aperture wide-angle prime lens — the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G.

Image © Nikon Corporation

A welcome addition to Nikon’s range of FX-format prime lenses, the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G boasts a new optical design that makes it a perfect match for today’s high-resolution D-SLRs. Its large (f/1.8) aperture delivers sharper shots in low light and enables wonderfully smooth bokeh. The new optical construction results in beautifully rendered images.

Hiromasa Sebata Product Manager, Professional Products at Nikon UK says “The new 28mm adds to Nikon’s growing line up of popular wide-angle lenses, bridging the gap between the 24mm and 35mm NIKKOR lenses perfectly. The 28 mm focal length benefits from improved optical construction to control unwanted distortion. This highly anticipated lens is a practical choice for every kit bag.”

Wide appeal
Fast and compact, the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G is a great choice for photographers who want to shoot wide-angle images, and get the best out of a high-resolution D-SLR. The 28 mm focal length is ideal for shooting in confined spaces, capturing stunning vistas or photographing cityscapes and street scenes. The large f/1.8 aperture delivers sharper shots in low light and achieves a perfect balance of sharpness and bokeh, singling out subjects beautifully. The fast aperture also provides a bright viewfinder image.

Broad advantage
Equipped with a brand new optical design, the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G supports the increasing resolution of modern D-SLRs with sharp, beautifully rendered stills and movies. Two aspherical lens elements effectively minimize aberrations and correct the distortion that can occur with a wide angle of view. Nikon’s exclusive Nano Crystal Coat reduces ghost and flare, and Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures discreet but accurate autofocus.

Compact and durable
With a weather-sealed mount and weighing just 330g, the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G is a solid yet lightweight and compact option that will fit easily into any kit bag. Compatible with Nikon FX-format D-SLRs, it offers a 42 mm (equivalent) focal length when used with Nikon DX-format D-SLRs and is fully compatible with entry-level models that do not have a built-in autofocus motor.

The lens is supplied with bayonet lens hood HB-64 and lens pouch CL-0915.

Specifications:
Focal length
28 mm
Maximum aperture
f/1.8
Minimum aperture
f/16
Angle of view (135)
75°
Angle of view (DX)
53°
Lens construction
11 elements in 9 groups
Nano Crystal Coat
Yes
Aspherical lens element
2
Minimum focus distance
0.25 m/0.85 ft
Maximum reproduction ratio
0.22x
No. of diaphragm
7 (rounded)
Focusing system
Rear focusing
AF drive system
Built-in SWM
Ｍ/Ａ
Yes
VR effect
No
Filter-attachment size
67 mm
Attachment ring
Fixed
Lens hood
HB-64 (supplied)
Case
CL-0915 (supplied)
Distance scale
Yes
Lens mount material
Metal
Max. diameter x length
Approx. 73.0 x 80.5 mm/
2.9 x 3.2 in.
Weight
Approx. 330 g/11.6 oz

End. (19/04/12).

Image © Nikon Corporation

Nikon have announced the entry level D3200 camera. Even so, there a lot on board, so a modern specification.  I am sure the resolution of the sensor will catch peoples attention.

In many ways this enhances what i have said to people over the years, such cameras are arguably the ‘pros’ compact camera in may ways if you just looked at some of the specification. Here are the official details:

The new Nikon D3200 makes beautiful photography easy for everyone

RRP: D3200 body only: £559.99 / €667.00

D3200 with 18-55mm VR: £649.99 / €775.00

Sales start date: mid May 2012

London, UK, 19th April 2012 Nikon introduces the D3200, a new easy-to-use entry-level D-SLR, boasting latest-generation Guide Mode with full HD video to deliver beautiful, high-quality pictures and cinematic quality movies.

Simon Iddon, Product Manager for Enthusiast Products at Nikon UK says: “The D3200 follows the success of Europe’s best selling D-SLR camera, the D3100[1]. Newcomers to D-SLR photography will benefit from the camera’s intuitive features, such as the Guide Mode that takes you step by step through the photography process to capture high quality images to be proud of.

He adds: “This high powered camera offers superior image quality, with an incredibly high megapixel count, as well as Full HD video for creative photographers”.

D-SLR photography made easy

The D3200 is perfect for those looking to capture quality photos and videos. Whether you are starting a family or about to embark on a big trip, the D3200’s easy to understand functions mean you can take beautiful pictures even if you have never used a D-SLR camera before.

Image © Nikon Corporation

Guide Mode, previously seen on the popular D3000 and D3100 D-SLRs, is now in its third generation with significant improvements to help you grasp the more creative options, taking you through the entire process step-by-step. Running in parallel, Assist Images uses visual examples to help you to identify the shot that you are imagining. Capturing that beautiful background blur in portraits or sharp pictures of your children playing has never been easier. New items have been added to the Advanced operation menu, for example, to help you to enhance the red in sunsets or reduce blur.

Nikon’s automatic Scene Recognition System will meticulously analyse the scene you are shooting and adjust the focus, exposure and white balance for optimum results. And, if you want your camera to do the work for you there is still a range of automatic functions such as Scene Auto Selector in Live View and Scene Modes that will apply the most relevant setting.

Superior image quality

The D3200’s incredibly high 24.2 megapixels delivers rich detail, meaning you can crop or print large images, keeping memories alive without a loss of sharpness. Nikon’s latest image processor, the fast and powerful EXPEED 3, provides high-speed operation, producing remarkably clear images with excellent colour reproduction; and enhanced movie recording. ISO 100-6400 (extendable to 12800 equivalent) helps you take sharp images, even in low light. The razor-sharp 11-point autofocus system will make sure everything is in focus, delivering sharp results even if your subject is off centre, or completely unpredictable, like your baby smiling or laughing. By shooting action at four frames per second, the D3200 helps capture fast moving objects, like children playing on their skateboards, at exactly the right moment.

Should you find yourself taking shots in high-contrast conditions, such as backlit scenes, Nikon’s Active D-Lighting automatically adjusts the lighting while retaining detail in both dark and bright areas for stunning images with natural contrast.

Enhanced HD movies

If you are looking to capture a milestone moment, such as your child’s first steps or their role in a school play, a picture is not always enough.

Record your own stunning full HD (1080p) movies to play back on your high definition TV using the D3200’s easy-access movie record button. The camera’s large sensor and high ISO offer exceptional image quality. There is a high quality microphone built in to the camera, but if you want to take a further step in sound recording, you can utilise the optional external microphone input. You can easily edit your movies on the camera by selecting the start and end point as well as saving selected frames so that you never miss a moment. When coupled with a wide variety of NIKKOR lenses, you can create fantastic cinematic effects to bring your home HD movies to life.

Connect the camera

Wirelessly transmitting images from your camera to an Android smart device is now possible by using the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. This means it is easy to share them with your friends and family instantly via social networks and e-mail or save and back them up when you are on the move. Because you don’t need a Wi-Fi connection to transfer images from the camera to your smart device, the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter is an ideal accessory when you’re travelling. The WU-1a also allows you to remotely preview the live view screen and trigger the shutter from your android device, so you can be part of group photos. The WU-1a is compatible with Android smart devices.

In-camera editing

There are a variety of editing functions available to help draw out your artistic flare. Adding creative effects such as Miniature, Selective Colour, Colour Sketch and Filter Effects – to add a warm or soft filter – will bring a personal touch to the finished image. It also lets you resize your images, give them a quick retouch, or even straighten them if necessary, directly on the camera to quickly and easily improve the quality of your photos.

In addition, the large 7.5cm (3 inch) high-resolution (921k-dot) LCD monitor makes it a pleasure to review and edit your movies and photos.

Easy operation

Image © Nikon Corporation

Its lightweight, small body makes the D3200 easy to pack and carry around so you never miss those important moments. When you come to use the camera, the controls have been intuitively laid out to ensure you have a secure grip that it is comfortable to handle. The most common functions, such as Live View and Release mode, have dedicated buttons. If you want to take a picture of yourself using the optional ML-3 remote control, the D3200 has a receiver which has been positioned on the front and back to make it easier to do so. The Info button is also close to hand, should you need any further help.

 Other key features:

Smart autofocus for movies: enjoy continuous autofocus (AF) when you shoot D-movies. Full-time servo AF (AF-F) and subject-tracking AF maintain the focus when you shoot moving subjects. Face-priority AF is ideal for filming events where you want to relax and let the camera focus on faces.

Extensive movie options: you can record Full HD (1080p) and the camera supports use of Nikon’s ME-1 stereo microphone. In-camera edit functions let you perform tasks such as setting the start and end point of your movie. A mini HDMI output enables playback on an HDTV.

NIKKOR lenses: take advantage of Nikon’s legendary NIKKOR lenses to capture images with vivid colour, striking contrast and crisp detail, or to experiment with cinematic effects. Use fast prime lenses for stunning portraits, micro lenses for life-size close-ups or telephoto lenses for distant subjects.

Nikon system options: offer endless creative opportunities with a wide range of optional accessories. These include the GP-1 GPS unit that geo tags every image you capture so that you will always remember the place that it was taken. The D3200 comes equipped with a convenient built-in pop-up flash, but with optional Speedlights, inspired flash photography becomes even easier and more creative. The compact and lightweight SB-400 delivers intelligent through-the-lens (i-TTL) flash control and bounce flash capability for a more natural lighting effect without strong shadows. The multifunctional SB-700 offers the exciting potential of wireless multiple-flash operation via the Nikon Creative Lighting System

End. (19/03/12).