Last Call Portable Flash…
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).
Speedlights & Speedlites…
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.
A Measured Response…
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 Offers…
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 Offer…
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).
Magazine Feature…
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).
Nikon 1 V1 & J1 Course…
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 Portable Flash Workshop…
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).
And A New Nikkor Lens…
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. More…
New Nikon D3200…
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”. More…
Nikon Wins Lots Of Awards…
Nikon wins several prizes for quality and design: D5100, D800 and Nikon 1 among those honoured at the TIPA and red dot awards
Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 16 April 2012 – Nikon Europe today announced that three of its products have won accolades in the TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) awards, and four products have been given the prestigious “red dot award: product design 2012″.
TIPA, Europe’s leading image press association, has given the prize for ‘Best D-SLR Expert’ to the Nikon D800, ‘Best Entry Level D-SLR’ to the Nikon D5100 and ‘Best Professional Flash System’ to the SB-910 Speedlight. Its awards are chosen by 29 photographic magazines across 13 European countries and they are given to products that the jury consider to be the best in category in terms of overall quality, performance and benefit for the defined end-user.
Meanwhile, the “red dot award: product design 2012″ was given to the Nikon 1, Nikon’s new compact system cameras, the COOLPIX AW100, the COOLPIX P310, and the PROSTAFF 5 laser rangefinder. The Nikon 1 camera system went on to be selected for the “best of the best” award in the Entertainment Technology and Cameras category, one of the more competitive categories in which many truly superior products are entered.
The “red dot award: product design” has become one of the largest and most prestigious design awards worldwide. This year, designers and companies from 58 countries entered 4,515 products.
Winners will be on display from July 2, 2012 in the exhibition “Design on stage – winners red dot award: product design 2012″ at the red dot design museum on the premises of the Zeche Zollverein World Cultural Heritage Site in Essen Germany.
TIPA Best D-SLR Expert: Nikon D800
The TIPA jury comments: “Dubbed a “multimedia” camera, the D800 offers an amazing 24x36mm (full frame) 36 MP sensor that allows photographers to capture images of impressive quality. The image file size begins to rival medium format digital camera back output and allows photographers to print their images using large format sizes. Its Full HD video mode will also appeal to advanced photographers who want to make quality videos. Well-built, but not too heavy, fun to use, and equipped with all the essential functions, the D800 offers stereo sound, a range of ISO-6400 (expandable to ISO 25,600) and 4 frames-per-second burst rate. For TIPA members, the camera is without a doubt the best melding of high-end demands and the needs of a practical enthusiast.”
TIPA Best D-SLR Entry Level: Nikon D5100
The TIPA jury comments: “With its 16.2 MP sensor, image quality at high ISO sensitivity and the excellent definition of the rear screen, the Nikon D5100 allows beginners to learn about the quality of a true reflex and more experienced users to have a very complete camera at an attractive price. Shooting ease is aided by the convenient access to photographer-controlled settings as well as its impressive Vari-Angle LCD monitor. Adding to the fun of using the camera are numerous in-camera special effects modes, including in-camera HDR. In addition, the D5100 offers Full 1080p HD movie capability.”
TIPA Best Professional Flash System: SB-910
The TIPA jury comments: “Built on Nikonʼs Creative Lighting System (CLS), the new SB-910 flash unit incorporates an enhanced intuitive operating system and graphic user interface (GUI). The SB-910 Speedlight covers the most popular focal lengths, and has a built-in FX/DX-format identification that optimizes zoom settings based on the camera body. This new Speedlight also provides more efficient battery usage as well as an enhanced Thermal Cut-Out function that will increase recycle times as the flash heats up, rather than shutting down completely until it has cooled off. The SB-910 features new hard-type colour compensation filters for fluorescent and incandescent colour temperature balancing, which can change the white balance setting of the camera automatically.”
Nikon 1 V1 & Nikon 1 J1
The Nikon 1 camera system cameras, the Nikon 1 J1 and Nikon 1 V1, are equipped with a new CMOS image sensor that supports super high-speed autofocus, and the new EXPEED 3 image-processing engine. In addition, adoption of the new Nikon 1 mount for these cameras has enabled an ultra-compact size and light weight for the cameras. The Nikon 1 system offers a rich line-up of dedicated accessories, including 1 NIKKOR interchangeable lenses, available in the same colours as the cameras for an integrated look, the Speedlight SB-N5, and the GPS Unit GP-N100. It also supports traditional F-mount lenses, allowing users to choose from Nikon’s extensive line-up of interchangeable lenses for unlimited imaging expression.
End. (18/04/12).
Canon Scoops Numerous Awards…
Canon wins six honours at the 2012 TIPA Awards
United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 16th April 2012 – Canon today announces the company has been awarded six separate honours by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) – Europe’s leading photo imaging and press association. Designed to recognise the best products launched in the preceding year, the TIPA Awards are considered the most coveted imaging honours worldwide. The 2012 awards again acknowledge the quality present across Canon’s wide portfolio, including the revolutionary new Cinema EOS range.
Comprising editors from leading photography titles worldwide, the TIPA panel meets annually to discuss the latest products, taking everything from innovation to design and overall product quality into account. The panel selects and acknowledges the outstanding imaging products from the previous 12 month period, and this year awarded prestigious accolades to the following Canon products:
Best DSLR Professional: Canon EOS-1D X
Best Expert Compact Camera: Canon PowerShot G1 X
Best Professional DSLR Lens: Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L USM fisheye
Best Multifunction Photo Printer: Canon PIXMA MG8250
Best Video DSLR: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Best Professional Videocamera: Canon EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera
“It is a great accolade to have received six awards from TIPA. This past year has been exceptional for Canon, with a range of ground-breaking product launches, including the landmark EOS C300 and the much awaited EOS 5D Mark III,” said Kieran Magee, Marketing Director, Professional Imaging, Canon Europe. “The phenomenal reception from the TIPA judging panel highlights Canon’s commitment to imaging excellence and the impressive consumer and professional products we have developed.”
After honouring Canon’s award-winning products, the TIPA judging panel offered the following citations:
Best DSLR Professional: Canon EOS-1D X
Canon’s new top of the line professional DSLR combines the creative advantages of a full frame sensor with high speed, high sensitivity technology to serve the needs of pro news, sports and wildlife photographers. Featuring an 18 MP CMOS sensor and powered by dual DIGIC 5+ image processors the EOS-1D X offers a well-balanced package of image quality and shooting speed that can go as high as 14 frames per second. Its standard 100-51,200 ISO range can be expanded to ISO 50 and 204,800. The newly engineered 61-point AF-system with 41 cross type sensors is the fastest and most accurate ever, enabling the camera to detect and track fast moving subjects even under lowlight conditions. Full HD video recording and built-in Ethernet complete the pro model.
Best Expert Compact Camera: Canon PowerShot G1 X
Image quality is often associated with interchangeable lenses, but the truth is that these two options are not necessarily linked. Canon has realized that many photographers do want DSLR-like image quality, but in a compact camera style body with an excellent fixed zoom lens. The PowerShot G1 X features a large 4:3 aspect ratio 14.3 MP CMOS sensor measuring 18.7mm x 14mm – similar in size to the APS-C sensors used in EOS DSLR models. The result is a compact camera that delivers superior image quality even when working in low light.
Best Professional DSLR Lens: Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L USM fisheye
Fisheye lenses allow photographers to shoot spectacular pictures with extreme viewing angles. In combination with a 24x36mm full frame sensor DSLR camera, the Canon EF 8-15mm allows for either full frame or circular fisheye images; with smaller sensors it covers the full frame. Its 180-degree field of view offers exceptional creative capture capabilities. This Canon premium L-series lens features exceptional optical design, quality and durability. The patented SubWavelength Structure Coating (SWC) reduces ghosting effects and flare, while the additional Fluorine coating aids in easy cleaning of the large front element.
Best Multifunction Photo Printer: Canon PIXMA MG8250
With a sleek design and enhanced connectivity, which includes access to the new PIXMA Cloud Link and wireless printing from mobile devices, the Canon PIXMA MG8250 offers photo lab-quality printing at impressive speed. The print head produces 1-picolitre droplets and delivers up to 9600dpi print resolution. The 6-ink system includes Pigment Black, Dye Black, Magenta, Cyan, Yellow and Grey ink, which produce a grain free, smooth colour 10×15 cm photo in just 20 seconds. Added to the package is a CCD scanner with 35mm film scanning at 4800 x 9600 dpi, making this multifunction a very desirable tool for every photo enthusiast.
Best Video DSLR: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II changed the landscape of digital photography. No longer are digital still and video two separate worlds, shot with two distinctly different systems. Now users can decide whether to shoot stills or video (or both) on the spot, carrying just one camera system. The EOS 5D Mark III further improves this experience with a newly designed 61-point AF and 63-zone metering system, and a new 22 MP sensor with an incredibly high ISO sensitivity. Additional movie functions include manual exposure control and an enhanced range of high bit-rate video compression options, with intraframe (ALL-I) and interframe (IPB) methods both supported.
Best Professional Videocamera: Canon EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera
To implement the revolutionary C300, Canon called upon expertise from diverse fields including sensors, image processors and optics. The result is landmark video camera technology available in two versions: EOS C300 with an EF interchangeable lens mount and EOS C300 PL with a PL mount. A high-resolution 8.3 MP Super 35mm-equivalent CMOS sensor has been especially developed for the system. Both versions feature modular architecture and are accompanied by a new range of video lenses.
End. (18/04/12).
Sigma Wins…
Image © Sigma Corporation
SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM and SIGMA APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM win TIPA awards
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM has won the TIPA 2012 Best Entry Level Lens award and the APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM has received the TIPA 2012 Best Expert DSLR Lens Award.
TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) is comprised of 29 publications from Europe, South Africa, Canada and the USA. The knowledgeable chief editors and technical editors from these publications form the judging panel for the awards. Photo Imaging has been a prominent part of the TIPA awards since 1991.
TIPA 2012 Best Entry Level DSLR Lens The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM offers users of DSLR cameras with APS-C size sensors one lens that will most likely cover all their needs. In practical use, the lens offers the 35mm equivalent of 27-300mm coverage, making it a highly versatile lens that is enhanced by Sigma’s original Optical Stabiliser function and HSM movement. In the view of TIPA members, the Sigma makes possible the use of this one lens for a wide range of different subjects, offering photographers a compact and highly competent optical tool for landscape, portrait and even wildlife photography.
TIPA 2012 Best Expert DSLR Lens The Sigma APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is the first 180mm optically stabilised macro in the world with a reproduction ratio of 1:1 and a maximum aperture of F2.8. Three special FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass lenses ensure exceptional correction of chromatic aberrations. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and creates sharp, contrasted images even when fully wide open.
The Sigma Corporation will continue the development of outstanding products that will answer the wide variety of needs of customers in the future.
End. (18/04/12).
Studio Lighting Tomorrow…
Just a reminder that we have our very informative ‘Studio Lighting From The Ground-Up’ workshop tomorrow with Calumet in London. There area handful of spaces left.
So if you want to know not just about the basics but how to light a variety of common situations this could be for you.
Likewise, many find it a fine reminder or refresh.
For more information or to book: Click Here.
End. (18/04/12).