Sigma APO 120-400mm F4.5-5.6 DG OS HSM Lens Review
A close cousin to the APO 150-500mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM lens, which has also been reviewed on the Photo Review website, Sigma's APO 120-400mm F4.5-5.6 DG OS HSM lens can be used on both 'full frame' and 'APS-C-sized' DLSR cameras as well as traditional 35mm SLRs. Smaller and lighter than the 150-500mm model, it is a significant upgrade on the 135-400mm f/4-5.6 lens it replaces.
Key features of the new lens are the inclusion of Sigma's original OS (Optical Stabiliser) and the use of the company's HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which provides fast and quiet autofocusing as well as full-time manual focusing capability. Like its sibling, it is compatible with Sigma's APO Tele Converters.
The optical design is similar to the 150-500mm lens, with 21 elements arranged in 15 groups. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements have been included to correct chromatic aberration and super multi-layer coating is applied throughout the optical system to minimise flare and ghosting. For general photography, this lens has a minimum focusing distance of 150cm throughout the zoom range and delivers a maximum magnification of 1:4.2, making it useful for close-up photography.
A rear focusing system minimises the risk of image softening caused by focusing and ensures optimum image quality throughout the entire zoom range. The maximum apertures of f/4.5 at 120mm and f/5.6 at 400m are relatively large for 3.3x zoom lenses of this type.|
Build quality is similar to the 150-500mm lens. With a metal mounting plate and stylish matte black coating. Rubberised focusing and zoom rings ensure a secure and positive grip. As in the 150-500mm lens, the zoom ring is towards the front of the lens barrel with the focusing ring about mid-way back to the camera.
The zoom ring in broader and measures just under 28mm deep and its rubber coating has thicker ridges than those on the focusing ring, which is 18mm thick. The removable tripod collar fits behind the focusing ring. Just behind it is a distance scale with markings for metres and feet.
Just behind the zoom ring on the side of the barrel is a lock that prevents the lens from extending when carried on a downward-facing camera. Behind the focusing ring are two sliders, the top one switching between auto and manual focus modes and the lower one controlling the optical stabiliser. Full-time Two stabilisation settings are provided, along with an off position.
According to Sigma's website, the lens is supplied with end caps, a hood and a soft carrying case (although we received only the end caps with the review lens).
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
Key features of the new lens are the inclusion of Sigma's original OS (Optical Stabiliser) and the use of the company's HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which provides fast and quiet autofocusing as well as full-time manual focusing capability. Like its sibling, it is compatible with Sigma's APO Tele Converters.
The optical design is similar to the 150-500mm lens, with 21 elements arranged in 15 groups. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements have been included to correct chromatic aberration and super multi-layer coating is applied throughout the optical system to minimise flare and ghosting. For general photography, this lens has a minimum focusing distance of 150cm throughout the zoom range and delivers a maximum magnification of 1:4.2, making it useful for close-up photography.
A rear focusing system minimises the risk of image softening caused by focusing and ensures optimum image quality throughout the entire zoom range. The maximum apertures of f/4.5 at 120mm and f/5.6 at 400m are relatively large for 3.3x zoom lenses of this type.|
Build quality is similar to the 150-500mm lens. With a metal mounting plate and stylish matte black coating. Rubberised focusing and zoom rings ensure a secure and positive grip. As in the 150-500mm lens, the zoom ring is towards the front of the lens barrel with the focusing ring about mid-way back to the camera.
The zoom ring in broader and measures just under 28mm deep and its rubber coating has thicker ridges than those on the focusing ring, which is 18mm thick. The removable tripod collar fits behind the focusing ring. Just behind it is a distance scale with markings for metres and feet.
Just behind the zoom ring on the side of the barrel is a lock that prevents the lens from extending when carried on a downward-facing camera. Behind the focusing ring are two sliders, the top one switching between auto and manual focus modes and the lower one controlling the optical stabiliser. Full-time Two stabilisation settings are provided, along with an off position.
According to Sigma's website, the lens is supplied with end caps, a hood and a soft carrying case (although we received only the end caps with the review lens).
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
Sigma 120-400mm f/4.5-5.6 DG OS HSM: Lens Test
Clearly a sibling to Sigma's larger 150-500mm f/5-6.3 OS lens, this full-frame tele zoom ($850, street) is almost the mirror image of that longer lens, but about 25 percent smaller. It replaces Sigma's 135-400mm f/4.5-5.6 in the lineup, and it's a significant upgrade for a number of reasons: It uses Sigma's silent HSM focusing motor, is compatible with Sigma teleconverters, and, of course, includes Sigma's Optical Stabilizer. An 186-620mm equivalent when mounted on most DSLRs (that's 372-1240mm -- albeit without AF -- when used with a 2X teleconverter!), this lens incorporates three elements of super-low-dispersion glass for sharpness and is sold with hood, case, and a pretty cool tripod collar.
HANDS ON
The finish is Sigma's new ultra matte-black coat. Almost velvet-like, the surface looks prone to scuffing, but won't scratch (in normal use). Although the removable tripod collar is relatively large, it's cleverly designed with finger channels to help it double as an excellent grip for off-tripod shooting, even a good carrying handle for the lens and camera rig.
At 8.12 inches at its most compact, it's a big lens, but you can handhold its 3 pounds and 12-plus ounces easily due to smart positioning of zoom and focusing rings, and a pleasing balance overall.
The AF is near-silent thanks to the HSM AF motor -- and by the standards of such a long zoom, it's fast-focusing. In field tests, the AF system had no problem latching onto and following approaching cars, bicyclists, even pigeons. We suspect it would do well from gridiron sidelines or at waterside tracking soaring ospreys.
The amply sized zoom ring is somewhat stiff turning, but the smaller, well-placed manual-focus collar is nicely damped and a pleasure to use. Manual focus is possible in the lens' AF mode. Its barrel houses well-marked switches for AF/MF, the OS modes (on, off, and panning), plus a zoom lock at 120mm.
Julia Silber
more : popphoto
HANDS ON
The finish is Sigma's new ultra matte-black coat. Almost velvet-like, the surface looks prone to scuffing, but won't scratch (in normal use). Although the removable tripod collar is relatively large, it's cleverly designed with finger channels to help it double as an excellent grip for off-tripod shooting, even a good carrying handle for the lens and camera rig.
At 8.12 inches at its most compact, it's a big lens, but you can handhold its 3 pounds and 12-plus ounces easily due to smart positioning of zoom and focusing rings, and a pleasing balance overall.
The AF is near-silent thanks to the HSM AF motor -- and by the standards of such a long zoom, it's fast-focusing. In field tests, the AF system had no problem latching onto and following approaching cars, bicyclists, even pigeons. We suspect it would do well from gridiron sidelines or at waterside tracking soaring ospreys.
The amply sized zoom ring is somewhat stiff turning, but the smaller, well-placed manual-focus collar is nicely damped and a pleasure to use. Manual focus is possible in the lens' AF mode. Its barrel houses well-marked switches for AF/MF, the OS modes (on, off, and panning), plus a zoom lock at 120mm.
Julia Silber
more : popphoto
EYE-FI COLLABORATES WITH NIKON TO INTRODUCE THE ‘EYE-FI CONNECTED’ NIKON D90 DIGITAL SLR CAMERA
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., August 27, 2008 – Eye-Fi Inc. (www.eye.fi), makers of the world's first wireless memory card for digital cameras, today announced that it collaborated with Nikon Corporation, a world leader in digital imaging and precision optics, to deliver enhanced integration of its Eye-Fi cards with Nikon's newly announced digital SLR camera, Nikon D90. The D90 is Nikon's second "Eye-Fi Connected” camera, following the Nikon D60, which was released earlier this year. Eye-Fi Connected cameras make it easier for photographers to use their Eye-Fi cards to wirelessly upload images to their computer or favorite online photo sharing site.
While Eye-Fi cards work seamlessly with conventional SD-compatible digital cameras, the Eye-Fi Connected Nikon D90 gives users an improved out-of- box experience and more control of wireless capabilities. The camera will detect when an Eye-Fi card is inserted and manage its power settings to ensure that photos upload effortlessly for sharing and storing. In addition, the Nikon D90 will include an Eye-Fi menu that allows users to turn the wireless function on or off, giving the user more freedom to customize how and when they want to use the Eye-Fi card. For example, if a user is in a hospital or on an airplane, or anywhere else where wireless connectivity is not allowed, the user may disable the wireless function through the Eye-Fi menu.
"Working with Nikon on this Eye-Fi Connected camera allows us to provide an even better experience for our users,” said Yuval Koren, chief product officer and co-founder of Eye-Fi. "This is a great example of how a non-wireless camera can be optimized for the Eye-Fi card to create the best experience possible. Together, we continue to find ways to make taking, saving and sharing digital memories as automatic and effortless as possible.”
The Eye-fi Connected Nikon D90 will be unveiled at Photokina in Cologne, Germany on September 23, 2008.
Eye-Fi's family of products, including the Eye-Fi Home, Share and Explore cards range from $79-$129 USD, and can be purchased at major online retail locations or at Circuit City and Ritz Camera Centers nationwide. Eye-Fi has won numerous awards, including PC World's "The 100 Best Products of 2008” and Yahoo! Tech's "Last Gadget Standing 2008” at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. For more information, please visit www.eye.fi.
About Eye-Fi
Founded in 2005, the company is dedicated to building products and services that help consumers navigate, nurture and share their visual memories. Eye-Fi's patent-pending technology works with Wi-Fi networks to automatically send photos from a digital camera to online, in-home and retail destinations. Headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., the company's investors include , LMS Capital, TransLink Capital, Opus Capital and Shasta Ventures. More information is available at www.eye.fi.
While Eye-Fi cards work seamlessly with conventional SD-compatible digital cameras, the Eye-Fi Connected Nikon D90 gives users an improved out-of- box experience and more control of wireless capabilities. The camera will detect when an Eye-Fi card is inserted and manage its power settings to ensure that photos upload effortlessly for sharing and storing. In addition, the Nikon D90 will include an Eye-Fi menu that allows users to turn the wireless function on or off, giving the user more freedom to customize how and when they want to use the Eye-Fi card. For example, if a user is in a hospital or on an airplane, or anywhere else where wireless connectivity is not allowed, the user may disable the wireless function through the Eye-Fi menu.
"Working with Nikon on this Eye-Fi Connected camera allows us to provide an even better experience for our users,” said Yuval Koren, chief product officer and co-founder of Eye-Fi. "This is a great example of how a non-wireless camera can be optimized for the Eye-Fi card to create the best experience possible. Together, we continue to find ways to make taking, saving and sharing digital memories as automatic and effortless as possible.”
The Eye-fi Connected Nikon D90 will be unveiled at Photokina in Cologne, Germany on September 23, 2008.
Eye-Fi's family of products, including the Eye-Fi Home, Share and Explore cards range from $79-$129 USD, and can be purchased at major online retail locations or at Circuit City and Ritz Camera Centers nationwide. Eye-Fi has won numerous awards, including PC World's "The 100 Best Products of 2008” and Yahoo! Tech's "Last Gadget Standing 2008” at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. For more information, please visit www.eye.fi.
About Eye-Fi
Founded in 2005, the company is dedicated to building products and services that help consumers navigate, nurture and share their visual memories. Eye-Fi's patent-pending technology works with Wi-Fi networks to automatically send photos from a digital camera to online, in-home and retail destinations. Headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., the company's investors include , LMS Capital, TransLink Capital, Opus Capital and Shasta Ventures. More information is available at www.eye.fi.
50-150mm F2.8 EX DC HSM II for Pentax
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the APO 50-150mm F2.8 II EX DC HSM compact, lightweight, large aperture telephoto zoom lens for Pentax* fittings.
This F2.8 large aperture telephoto zoom lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras with APS-C size sensors and its compact, lightweight body provides freedom of movement and versatility. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting and ensures sharp images throughout the entire zoom range. The addition of the optional 1.4x EX DG APO or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 70-210mm F4 AF tele-zoom lens and a 100-300mm F5.6 AF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.
Case, Hood (LH732-01) is supplied
*If the camera body does not support HSM motor, AF will not work.
more : sigmaphoto
This F2.8 large aperture telephoto zoom lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras with APS-C size sensors and its compact, lightweight body provides freedom of movement and versatility. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting and ensures sharp images throughout the entire zoom range. The addition of the optional 1.4x EX DG APO or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 70-210mm F4 AF tele-zoom lens and a 100-300mm F5.6 AF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.
Case, Hood (LH732-01) is supplied
*If the camera body does not support HSM motor, AF will not work.
more : sigmaphoto
Nikon D90 hands on preview
When holding the camera, it's just another Nikon DSLR but using it is where the reasoning behind its birth and concept come to light.
As uninterested in video on cameras as I am, the D90 needs to be hailed as a ground breaker simply because it exists. For what it's worth, it seems to work quite well.
At least Nikon have had the decency of using HD to record in. The limited capacity could be a nuisance in some peoples opinion but I can't think where you'd film for more than 20 minutes at a time.
It's a nice camera and is up against the 50D which I've previewed here. Video aside, the D90 has a new D-Lighting setting and added retouching features but that's about it in terms of innovation. I'll be interested to see if the processor does what Nikon say it will in terms of noise reduction. If it's true we should see a better result than the D300 can give.
The Nikon D90 will be availble from September 2008 with the body only having an RRP of £699.99. If you want it with the 18-105mm lens then you're looking at an RRP of £849.99.
more : ephotozine
As uninterested in video on cameras as I am, the D90 needs to be hailed as a ground breaker simply because it exists. For what it's worth, it seems to work quite well.
At least Nikon have had the decency of using HD to record in. The limited capacity could be a nuisance in some peoples opinion but I can't think where you'd film for more than 20 minutes at a time.
It's a nice camera and is up against the 50D which I've previewed here. Video aside, the D90 has a new D-Lighting setting and added retouching features but that's about it in terms of innovation. I'll be interested to see if the processor does what Nikon say it will in terms of noise reduction. If it's true we should see a better result than the D300 can give.
The Nikon D90 will be availble from September 2008 with the body only having an RRP of £699.99. If you want it with the 18-105mm lens then you're looking at an RRP of £849.99.
more : ephotozine
SANDISK BOOSTS SD CARD SPEED BY FIFTY PERCENT — SETS NEW SPEED RECORD FOR SD FLASH MEMORY CARDS
The New SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC Line Easily Supports Continuous Shooting Performance in Nikon’s New D90 Digital SLR Camera
SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) today set a new speed record of 30 megabytes per second1 for SD™ flash memory cards with the introduction of the SanDisk Extreme® III 30MB/s Edition line of SDHC™ Cards. The new cards, expected to be available worldwide in September in 4-gigabyte (GB)2, 8GB and 16GB capacities, are designed to deliver peak performance when used with the new digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera, Nikon D90.
The Nikon D90 is the industry’s first DSLR camera to support SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC cards at increased performance. Featuring a 50-percent speed boost from previous 20MB/s cards, the new SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC card makes it possible to record 39 images in continuous shooting mode at 4.5 frames per second with a file size of 6.0 MB JPEG L Fine per image.3 The Nikon D90 camera captures high-resolution, 12.3 megapixel still images, and it is Nikon’s first DSLR to offer movie recording capability.
With ever-increasing technology advancements in DSLR cameras, higher megapixel growth and new video capturing capabilities, SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s SDHC cards make it easy for consumers to capture and store more high-resolution images and video content. When placed in SanDisk’s new ImageMate® Multi-Card USB 2.0 Reader/Writer, still images and video can be transferred from the new SDHC card to a computer up to 30MB/s, greatly reducing the waiting time to offload large files from the card to the computer.
“The high capacities and performance of the SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC cards give users the freedom to shoot lots of high-resolution photos and video clips,” said Susan Park, director of consumer product marketing for SanDisk’s performance cards. “The combination of our new SanDisk Extreme III 30 MB/s Edition SDHC card technology and the Nikon D90 camera maximizes performance.”
According to research firm IDC, demand for DSLR cameras is growing as users replace older models with more sophisticated options. Global sales of DSLR cameras grew by 41 percent last year, which was nearly twice the growth rate of the overall digital camera market worldwide4.
“Increasingly we’re seeing more second- or third-time digital camera buyers upgrading to more technologically-advanced prosumer DSLRs because they offer richer feature sets at more affordable prices than ever before,” said Chris Chute, research manager of IDC's Worldwide Digital Imaging Solutions Group. “The new SanDisk Extreme III cards provide optimal performance levels and high-capacity points to match that latest technology innovation.”
“Whether capturing a special moment in sports, a wilderness hike, or just your toddler running across the room, life doesn’t always stop when you want to take a picture. The combination of the new Nikon D90 camera and SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC cards helps ensure that photographers capture winning action shots and experience quicker transfer of files from the camera’s memory card to a computer,” said Mr. Koichiro Kawamura, General Manager, 1st Designing Department, Imaging Company Nikon Corporation
Beyond their high capacities and performance levels, all SanDisk Extreme III cards are capable of functioning in extreme temperatures, from -13 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit or -25 to 85 degrees Celsius. The cards also carry a lifetime limited warranty.5 SanDisk Extreme III SDHC 30MB/s Edition cards, which have a Class 6 performance rating, are fully backwards-compatible; working in any camera, card reader or other device that supports SDHC cards6.
Pricing and Availability
SanDisk Extreme III SDHC 30MB/s Edition cards are expected to be available worldwide in September. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is U.S. $64.99 for the 4GB card, US $109.99 for the 8GB card, and U.S. $179.99 for the 16GB card.
About SanDisk
SanDisk Corporation, the inventor and world’s largest supplier of flash storage cards, is a global leader in flash memory – from research, manufacturing and product design to consumer branding and retail distribution. SanDisk’s product portfolio includes flash memory cards for mobile phones, digital cameras and camcorders; digital audio/video players; USB flash drives for consumers and the enterprise; embedded memory for mobile devices; and solid state drives for computers. SanDisk (www.sandisk.com/corporate) is a Silicon Valley-based S&P 500 company, with more than half its sales outside the United States.
SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) today set a new speed record of 30 megabytes per second1 for SD™ flash memory cards with the introduction of the SanDisk Extreme® III 30MB/s Edition line of SDHC™ Cards. The new cards, expected to be available worldwide in September in 4-gigabyte (GB)2, 8GB and 16GB capacities, are designed to deliver peak performance when used with the new digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera, Nikon D90.
The Nikon D90 is the industry’s first DSLR camera to support SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC cards at increased performance. Featuring a 50-percent speed boost from previous 20MB/s cards, the new SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC card makes it possible to record 39 images in continuous shooting mode at 4.5 frames per second with a file size of 6.0 MB JPEG L Fine per image.3 The Nikon D90 camera captures high-resolution, 12.3 megapixel still images, and it is Nikon’s first DSLR to offer movie recording capability.
With ever-increasing technology advancements in DSLR cameras, higher megapixel growth and new video capturing capabilities, SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s SDHC cards make it easy for consumers to capture and store more high-resolution images and video content. When placed in SanDisk’s new ImageMate® Multi-Card USB 2.0 Reader/Writer, still images and video can be transferred from the new SDHC card to a computer up to 30MB/s, greatly reducing the waiting time to offload large files from the card to the computer.
“The high capacities and performance of the SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC cards give users the freedom to shoot lots of high-resolution photos and video clips,” said Susan Park, director of consumer product marketing for SanDisk’s performance cards. “The combination of our new SanDisk Extreme III 30 MB/s Edition SDHC card technology and the Nikon D90 camera maximizes performance.”
According to research firm IDC, demand for DSLR cameras is growing as users replace older models with more sophisticated options. Global sales of DSLR cameras grew by 41 percent last year, which was nearly twice the growth rate of the overall digital camera market worldwide4.
“Increasingly we’re seeing more second- or third-time digital camera buyers upgrading to more technologically-advanced prosumer DSLRs because they offer richer feature sets at more affordable prices than ever before,” said Chris Chute, research manager of IDC's Worldwide Digital Imaging Solutions Group. “The new SanDisk Extreme III cards provide optimal performance levels and high-capacity points to match that latest technology innovation.”
“Whether capturing a special moment in sports, a wilderness hike, or just your toddler running across the room, life doesn’t always stop when you want to take a picture. The combination of the new Nikon D90 camera and SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC cards helps ensure that photographers capture winning action shots and experience quicker transfer of files from the camera’s memory card to a computer,” said Mr. Koichiro Kawamura, General Manager, 1st Designing Department, Imaging Company Nikon Corporation
Beyond their high capacities and performance levels, all SanDisk Extreme III cards are capable of functioning in extreme temperatures, from -13 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit or -25 to 85 degrees Celsius. The cards also carry a lifetime limited warranty.5 SanDisk Extreme III SDHC 30MB/s Edition cards, which have a Class 6 performance rating, are fully backwards-compatible; working in any camera, card reader or other device that supports SDHC cards6.
Pricing and Availability
SanDisk Extreme III SDHC 30MB/s Edition cards are expected to be available worldwide in September. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is U.S. $64.99 for the 4GB card, US $109.99 for the 8GB card, and U.S. $179.99 for the 16GB card.
About SanDisk
SanDisk Corporation, the inventor and world’s largest supplier of flash storage cards, is a global leader in flash memory – from research, manufacturing and product design to consumer branding and retail distribution. SanDisk’s product portfolio includes flash memory cards for mobile phones, digital cameras and camcorders; digital audio/video players; USB flash drives for consumers and the enterprise; embedded memory for mobile devices; and solid state drives for computers. SanDisk (www.sandisk.com/corporate) is a Silicon Valley-based S&P 500 company, with more than half its sales outside the United States.
Nikon D90 Hands-on Preview
Almost exactly two years after the D80 was announced comes its replacement, the rather predictably named D90. The D80 has been one of Nikon's quiet successes, and even today, despite being positively Methuselah-like in digital camera terms it continues to sell and often makes its way into our top 10 most clicked on cameras. Because it looks so similar to the D80 the D90 appears at first glance to be one of those rather subdued incremental upgrades, but dig a little deeper and you'll find there's plenty to keep Nikon fans happy.
First and foremost there's a new CMOS sensor, which Nikon claim produces D300 quality output at up to ISO 6400 and - one of several features to 'trickle down' from higher models - the same highly acclaimed 3.0-inch VGA screen as the D3/D300. Naturally it has Live View with contrast-detect AF and it would have been surprising had it not sported some form of dust removal system. More surprising is the inclusion of the world's first DSLR movie mode (720p HDTV quality, no less) and HDMI output, though as we'll see later it does come with some limitations. A lot of the core photographic spec is the same as or very similar to the D80, though there is a new shutter and an implementation of the 3D tracking AF seen on the D3/D300.
And it's not just the high end models that have lent features and technology to the D90; the user interface has been given the same user-friendly treatment as the D60, as have the retouching options. As it was explained to use the D90 is intended to appeal to the broadest audience of any Nikon SLR, from first-time 'step up' customers moving from a compact to serious amateurs wanting comprehensive photographic control without the cost and weight of a D300. Whether the D90 turns out to be a jack or a master of all trades we'll discover when we get a final production body to review, but our early impressions are overall pretty positive. Note that for the moment the D80 will continue to be sold, possibly well into 2009 - expect to see prices falling as soon as the D90 settles in.
Simon Joinson
more : dpreview
First and foremost there's a new CMOS sensor, which Nikon claim produces D300 quality output at up to ISO 6400 and - one of several features to 'trickle down' from higher models - the same highly acclaimed 3.0-inch VGA screen as the D3/D300. Naturally it has Live View with contrast-detect AF and it would have been surprising had it not sported some form of dust removal system. More surprising is the inclusion of the world's first DSLR movie mode (720p HDTV quality, no less) and HDMI output, though as we'll see later it does come with some limitations. A lot of the core photographic spec is the same as or very similar to the D80, though there is a new shutter and an implementation of the 3D tracking AF seen on the D3/D300.
And it's not just the high end models that have lent features and technology to the D90; the user interface has been given the same user-friendly treatment as the D60, as have the retouching options. As it was explained to use the D90 is intended to appeal to the broadest audience of any Nikon SLR, from first-time 'step up' customers moving from a compact to serious amateurs wanting comprehensive photographic control without the cost and weight of a D300. Whether the D90 turns out to be a jack or a master of all trades we'll discover when we get a final production body to review, but our early impressions are overall pretty positive. Note that for the moment the D80 will continue to be sold, possibly well into 2009 - expect to see prices falling as soon as the D90 settles in.
Simon Joinson
more : dpreview
Nikon launches AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR
Nikon UK is pleased to announce the introduction of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR. The new NIKKOR lens, with a focal length between 18 and 105 mm, is a high performance and cost efficient lens with a focal length equivalent to 27 to 157.5 mm in 35 mm format that has been designed to partner with Nikon’s D90.
High Performance – High Reproduction
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR is useful in a broad range of shooting settings. The wide zoom range makes it suitable for shooting buildings and scenery while the telephoto zoom range is ideal for portraits. The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR ’s built-in Vibration Reduction II system provides the equivalent of a shutter speed three stops faster than standard lenses, offering an extraordinarily high reproduction capacity. The high-performance optical system features a single ED glass element and one aspherical lens optimised for use for digital SLRs. This allows you to make high resolution, high contrast images, and minimising chromatic aberration. The ultra-compact built-in Silent Wave Motor ensures silent, fast and efficient autofocus operation, and the refined external design with leather-tone texture will appeal to Nikon users as it will match their camera bodies.
Extreme Focal Length
DX camera owners can have it all. Combined with the AF-S VR Zoom NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED; the two VR lenses cover a focal length of 18-450mm, ensuring you can capture virtually anything, from a close up object to a distant horizon.
Specifications
Focal length: 18-105 mm
Max/min aperture: f/3.5-5.6
Lens construction: 15 elements in 11 groups (with one ED glas and one hybrid aspherical lens)
Picture angle: 76° , 15°20’ (DX-format)
Minimum focus distance: 0.45 m
Max. reproduction ratio: 0.2x (1/5)
No. diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded)
Focusing: Autofocus with built-in SWM and manual focus
Filter/attachment size: 67mm
Diameter x length: Approx. φ76-89 mm
Weight: Approx. 450 g
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR is supplied with the Nikon D90 in a special kit.
High Performance – High Reproduction
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR is useful in a broad range of shooting settings. The wide zoom range makes it suitable for shooting buildings and scenery while the telephoto zoom range is ideal for portraits. The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR ’s built-in Vibration Reduction II system provides the equivalent of a shutter speed three stops faster than standard lenses, offering an extraordinarily high reproduction capacity. The high-performance optical system features a single ED glass element and one aspherical lens optimised for use for digital SLRs. This allows you to make high resolution, high contrast images, and minimising chromatic aberration. The ultra-compact built-in Silent Wave Motor ensures silent, fast and efficient autofocus operation, and the refined external design with leather-tone texture will appeal to Nikon users as it will match their camera bodies.
Extreme Focal Length
DX camera owners can have it all. Combined with the AF-S VR Zoom NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED; the two VR lenses cover a focal length of 18-450mm, ensuring you can capture virtually anything, from a close up object to a distant horizon.
Specifications
Focal length: 18-105 mm
Max/min aperture: f/3.5-5.6
Lens construction: 15 elements in 11 groups (with one ED glas and one hybrid aspherical lens)
Picture angle: 76° , 15°20’ (DX-format)
Minimum focus distance: 0.45 m
Max. reproduction ratio: 0.2x (1/5)
No. diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded)
Focusing: Autofocus with built-in SWM and manual focus
Filter/attachment size: 67mm
Diameter x length: Approx. φ76-89 mm
Weight: Approx. 450 g
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR is supplied with the Nikon D90 in a special kit.
Nikon’s new D90 takes you to the movies
Nikon UK today announces another great step forward in its mid-class DX-format D-SLR range: the D90.
As the world’s first D-SLR with movie function, this remarkable camera offers truly cinematic results, stunning image quality and innovative high-performance features inherited from Nikon’s new-generation DX-format flagship D300. The D90 will open new doors for photography enthusiasts of any level.
With 12.3 megapixels, the newly-designed DX-format CMOS image sensor and Nikon’s proprietary EXPEED image processing concept, the D90 is a quality-guarantee. Advanced features such as Live View, Scene Recognition, Active D-Lighting, Picture Control and an ISO sensitivity range of 200-3200 (ISO 6400 equivalent on Hi1 and ISO 100 equivalent on Lo1), allows creativity in almost any setting. And to ensure all these features are easy to use, they are packed in an ergonomic body with an intuitive operational layout.
Toru Uematsu, Senior Manager Product Planning at Nikon Europe B.V says: “The D90’s combines imaging technology inherited directly from our D300 and innovative features like Live View, D-Movie, Scene Recognition and Picture Control - once again confirming Nikon’s leadership in cutting edge imaging technology. Add its innovative, high-performance features such as the CMOS image sensor, and the extremely wide ISO sensitivity range, we are convinced that this new camera will appeal to all passionate photographers looking for the next step in creativity.”
Stunning image quality
The D90’s EXPEED technology has been optimised to realise the high-quality, high-speed image processing capability for which Nikon’s professional D-SLRs are renowned. The D90 delivers images with extraordinary detail and expanded enlargement capacity, thanks to its improved DX-format CMOS image sensor and an effective 12.3 megapixels. The ISO sensitivity ranges from 200-3200 (ISO 6400 equivalent on Hi1 and ISO 100 equivalent on Lo1) providing low-noise images that are rich in detail and offer tonal gradation beyond expectation. It also enhances the performance of other powerful features such as Live View and the new Face Detection System. To address the issue of lost detail in high-contrast lighting situations, Active D-Lighting adjusts the contrast between images’ light and dark areas by localising tone control as an image is captured. And for extra creativity, Picture Control allows you to customise the look and mood of your images by choosing from six settings, including new Portrait and Landscape modes.
A helping hand
First introduced on Nikon’s D3 and D300 flagship cameras, the D90’s Scene Recognition System uses a 420-pixel RGB sensor to analyse scene and colour information of the subject being photographed. Based on these readings, the camera optimises its focus, exposure and white balance just before the shutter is released. The D90 also recognises human faces to render up to five faces with newfound sharpness and accuracy and more natural skin tones in your images. In the camera’s 11-point AutoFocus mode, it uses the subject’s colour information to maintain a sharp focus as the subject moves in the frame.
Once you’ve got the composition you want, the D90 incorporates image-editing functions that make it easy to enhance images within the camera. There are several new retouch options: ‘Distortion Control’ adjusts lens aberration, ‘Straighten’ corrects the inclination of the image, whilst ‘Fisheye’ produces optical effects similar to that of a fisheye lens. There are also ample options for viewing and selecting the right shot, including 72-frame playback, calendar playback and histogram display for a magnified portion of the image.
Live and living
The D90 is the first mid-class D-SLR to offer a movie function, allowing you to capture creative movie clips in motion JPEG at superb quality levels. Compared to the average camcorder, the far larger image sensor on the D90 offers higher image quality, a shallow depth of field and exceptional ISO performance while recording in low-light conditions. NIKKOR’s wide range of lenses offers great variety from fisheye to wide-angle to super-telephoto, adding more scope for creativity and emotional impact to your movies. Movies can even be played on the camera with sound, thanks to its uniquely powerful speaker / microphone system.
The D90 has been designed with an eye-level pentaprism viewfinder, offering some 96% frame coverage. However, when looking through the viewfinder isn’t practical, simply press the D90’s Live View button and the 3-inch LCD with 170˚ viewing angle and approx. 920k-dot LCD support your Live View shooting with three contrast-detect AF modes: Face Priority, Wide Area and Normal Area. When you’re not sure which camera settings are appropriate, try the advanced scene modes like Active D-Lighting and Picture Control for beautiful, crisp images every time.
Get every shot
There are few things more annoying than a flat battery as you’re about to capture that winning shot, so Nikon has made the D90’s extremely efficient, allowing you to capture approximately 850 images on a single charge of the camera’s battery. Accurate exposures rely on precise shutter release, so the D90’s electronically timed shutter mechanism has been specifically engineered for long, accurate service and has undergone exhaustive 100,000 shutter-release cycle testing. For ever-ready shooting, the impressive 0.15-seconds start-up time, 65-millisecond shutter release time and its 4.5 fps means you won’t lose that crucial shot. And with a thumbnail display of up to 72 images, Pictmotion slideshows with soundtrack, the option of image tagging through geotags with GPS, instant online upload to ‘my Picturetown’ and HDMI-compatibility, sharing and organising your images has never been easier.
As the world’s first D-SLR with movie function, this remarkable camera offers truly cinematic results, stunning image quality and innovative high-performance features inherited from Nikon’s new-generation DX-format flagship D300. The D90 will open new doors for photography enthusiasts of any level.
With 12.3 megapixels, the newly-designed DX-format CMOS image sensor and Nikon’s proprietary EXPEED image processing concept, the D90 is a quality-guarantee. Advanced features such as Live View, Scene Recognition, Active D-Lighting, Picture Control and an ISO sensitivity range of 200-3200 (ISO 6400 equivalent on Hi1 and ISO 100 equivalent on Lo1), allows creativity in almost any setting. And to ensure all these features are easy to use, they are packed in an ergonomic body with an intuitive operational layout.
Toru Uematsu, Senior Manager Product Planning at Nikon Europe B.V says: “The D90’s combines imaging technology inherited directly from our D300 and innovative features like Live View, D-Movie, Scene Recognition and Picture Control - once again confirming Nikon’s leadership in cutting edge imaging technology. Add its innovative, high-performance features such as the CMOS image sensor, and the extremely wide ISO sensitivity range, we are convinced that this new camera will appeal to all passionate photographers looking for the next step in creativity.”
Stunning image quality
The D90’s EXPEED technology has been optimised to realise the high-quality, high-speed image processing capability for which Nikon’s professional D-SLRs are renowned. The D90 delivers images with extraordinary detail and expanded enlargement capacity, thanks to its improved DX-format CMOS image sensor and an effective 12.3 megapixels. The ISO sensitivity ranges from 200-3200 (ISO 6400 equivalent on Hi1 and ISO 100 equivalent on Lo1) providing low-noise images that are rich in detail and offer tonal gradation beyond expectation. It also enhances the performance of other powerful features such as Live View and the new Face Detection System. To address the issue of lost detail in high-contrast lighting situations, Active D-Lighting adjusts the contrast between images’ light and dark areas by localising tone control as an image is captured. And for extra creativity, Picture Control allows you to customise the look and mood of your images by choosing from six settings, including new Portrait and Landscape modes.
A helping hand
First introduced on Nikon’s D3 and D300 flagship cameras, the D90’s Scene Recognition System uses a 420-pixel RGB sensor to analyse scene and colour information of the subject being photographed. Based on these readings, the camera optimises its focus, exposure and white balance just before the shutter is released. The D90 also recognises human faces to render up to five faces with newfound sharpness and accuracy and more natural skin tones in your images. In the camera’s 11-point AutoFocus mode, it uses the subject’s colour information to maintain a sharp focus as the subject moves in the frame.
Once you’ve got the composition you want, the D90 incorporates image-editing functions that make it easy to enhance images within the camera. There are several new retouch options: ‘Distortion Control’ adjusts lens aberration, ‘Straighten’ corrects the inclination of the image, whilst ‘Fisheye’ produces optical effects similar to that of a fisheye lens. There are also ample options for viewing and selecting the right shot, including 72-frame playback, calendar playback and histogram display for a magnified portion of the image.
Live and living
The D90 is the first mid-class D-SLR to offer a movie function, allowing you to capture creative movie clips in motion JPEG at superb quality levels. Compared to the average camcorder, the far larger image sensor on the D90 offers higher image quality, a shallow depth of field and exceptional ISO performance while recording in low-light conditions. NIKKOR’s wide range of lenses offers great variety from fisheye to wide-angle to super-telephoto, adding more scope for creativity and emotional impact to your movies. Movies can even be played on the camera with sound, thanks to its uniquely powerful speaker / microphone system.
The D90 has been designed with an eye-level pentaprism viewfinder, offering some 96% frame coverage. However, when looking through the viewfinder isn’t practical, simply press the D90’s Live View button and the 3-inch LCD with 170˚ viewing angle and approx. 920k-dot LCD support your Live View shooting with three contrast-detect AF modes: Face Priority, Wide Area and Normal Area. When you’re not sure which camera settings are appropriate, try the advanced scene modes like Active D-Lighting and Picture Control for beautiful, crisp images every time.
Get every shot
There are few things more annoying than a flat battery as you’re about to capture that winning shot, so Nikon has made the D90’s extremely efficient, allowing you to capture approximately 850 images on a single charge of the camera’s battery. Accurate exposures rely on precise shutter release, so the D90’s electronically timed shutter mechanism has been specifically engineered for long, accurate service and has undergone exhaustive 100,000 shutter-release cycle testing. For ever-ready shooting, the impressive 0.15-seconds start-up time, 65-millisecond shutter release time and its 4.5 fps means you won’t lose that crucial shot. And with a thumbnail display of up to 72 images, Pictmotion slideshows with soundtrack, the option of image tagging through geotags with GPS, instant online upload to ‘my Picturetown’ and HDMI-compatibility, sharing and organising your images has never been easier.
Adobe Unveils Photoshop Elements 7
Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 7 software with new Photoshop.com membership, a milestone release of the No. 1 selling consumer photo-editing software*. Available for Windows®, Photoshop Elements 7 makes it quick and easy to organize, edit, create and share amazing photos with others by leveraging the editing power of Photoshop software, the professional standard for image editing. For the first time, Photoshop Elements 7 customers will have the option to sign-up for one year of membership on Photoshop.com, extending the capabilities of the software by providing helpful templates and creative tutorials delivered on a regular basis. Other benefits include: automatic online backup and storage of photos and videos, access to photos and videos from virtually anywhere, and interactive options to share memories with great impact.
In addition, Adobe today announced Adobe Premiere® Elements 7 software, a complete video-editing solution (see separate press release). Available separately or together in a single retail bundle package, Adobe Photoshop Elements & Adobe Premiere Elements bundle give photo and video enthusiasts everything they need for a complete digital imaging experience.
“With Photoshop Elements our ultimate goal is to give people the ability to tell personal and high-impact stories with their photos,” said Doug Mack, vice president and general manager of Consumer and Hosted Solutions at Adobe. “We strike a balance between editing punch and ease, so a user doesn’t have to be a pro to produce impressive results. The new Photoshop.com membership takes Photoshop Elements to the next level - extending beyond the desktop - by giving our customers access to their photos and videos from virtually anywhere, providing secure backup, delivering inspiration to fuel creativity and enabling users to keep the photos and creations they share fresh and exciting.”
Create Picture-perfect Photos with Powerful yet Intuitive Editing Tricks
Photoshop Elements makes it easy to tell amazing stories through memorable photos. The new Scene Cleaner, based on Adobe’s innovative Photomerge® technology, creates the ideal photo by letting users simply brush away unwanted subjects, such as tourists in a vacation shot who may be impacting the main subject of the photo. The new Smart Brush helps users apply incredible effects to a specific area of a photo with a single stroke, making it a snap to improve lighting and add rich textures with access to more than fifty sophisticated effects. Common editing tasks, such as whitening teeth or brightening blue skies, are a breeze to fix with the one-step Quick Fix tools. Surfaces can be softened while retaining edges and details crisp with a new filter ideal for portrait shots. Also, a new selection of Online Albums, based on Adobe Flash® technology, offers users a richer interactive experience.
New Membership on Photoshop.com Inspires Users and Keeps Them Connected
Users can push their creativity even further with Photoshop.com membership, offered in two levels, Basic1 and Plus2. For those who want fresh, creative project ideas delivered straight to the desktop, the option to purchase an annual Photoshop.com Plus membership guarantees inspiration will come on a regular basis in the form of new tutorials, seasonal artwork, themed templates and more. In addition, Photoshop.com Plus membership provides 20GB of storage - enough for 15,000 photos, four hours of DVD-quality videos or a combination of both. Online back-up keeps memories safe from computer failure or natural disaster, with access from anywhere, via a personal account linked to the software. Photoshop.com Basic membership can be experienced for free, providing 5GB of storage, access to photos and videos virtually anywhere and online photo sharing in a fun interactive environment.
Photoshop.com members also will be able to upload photos directly from a mobile phone. The addition of Photoshop.com Mobile beta, a rich Adobe Flash® based mobile application, offers camera phone users the easiest way to upload, share and access photos using their Photoshop.com account. Photoshop.com Mobile runs in the background and allows consumers to take photos, send messages and run other applications while pictures are being uploaded to their Photoshop.com account. To learn more about Photoshop.com Mobile and for a list of supported phones, visit http://www.adobe.com/products/pscom/mobile/ .
More information about Photoshop.com membership can be found at:
www.adobe.com/products/photoshopelwin/membership/ .
Pricing and Availability
Adobe Photoshop Elements 7 and Adobe Premiere Elements 7 for Windows will be available in local retail outlets such as Best Buy, Circuit City, Costco (Photoshop Elements 7 only), Office Depot, Office Max and Staples in October 2008. Consumers can pre-order the products at www.adobe.com , www.amazon.com , www.bestbuy.com and www.costco.com . The products will be available separately for US$99.99. Photoshop Elements 7 & Premiere Elements 7 bundle also will be available for US$149.99.
Photoshop.com Plus membership will be available for purchase from within the products for US$49.99 and Basic membership can be experienced for free. Information about other language versions, as well as pricing, upgrade and support policies for other countries is available at www.adobe.com/go/photoshopelements . Photoshop.com membership is available in the U.S. only.
*Source: The NPD Group / Retail Tracking Service (April 2002 to April 2008) based on units sold (North America).
1. Photoshop.com Basic membership does not require the purchase of any Adobe product, including Photoshop Elements 7 and Premiere Elements 7.
2. With Photoshop.com Plus membership, annual membership terms apply.
About Adobe Systems Incorporated
Adobe revolutionizes how the world engages with ideas and information - anytime, anywhere and through any medium. For more information, visit www.adobe.com .
In addition, Adobe today announced Adobe Premiere® Elements 7 software, a complete video-editing solution (see separate press release). Available separately or together in a single retail bundle package, Adobe Photoshop Elements & Adobe Premiere Elements bundle give photo and video enthusiasts everything they need for a complete digital imaging experience.
“With Photoshop Elements our ultimate goal is to give people the ability to tell personal and high-impact stories with their photos,” said Doug Mack, vice president and general manager of Consumer and Hosted Solutions at Adobe. “We strike a balance between editing punch and ease, so a user doesn’t have to be a pro to produce impressive results. The new Photoshop.com membership takes Photoshop Elements to the next level - extending beyond the desktop - by giving our customers access to their photos and videos from virtually anywhere, providing secure backup, delivering inspiration to fuel creativity and enabling users to keep the photos and creations they share fresh and exciting.”
Create Picture-perfect Photos with Powerful yet Intuitive Editing Tricks
Photoshop Elements makes it easy to tell amazing stories through memorable photos. The new Scene Cleaner, based on Adobe’s innovative Photomerge® technology, creates the ideal photo by letting users simply brush away unwanted subjects, such as tourists in a vacation shot who may be impacting the main subject of the photo. The new Smart Brush helps users apply incredible effects to a specific area of a photo with a single stroke, making it a snap to improve lighting and add rich textures with access to more than fifty sophisticated effects. Common editing tasks, such as whitening teeth or brightening blue skies, are a breeze to fix with the one-step Quick Fix tools. Surfaces can be softened while retaining edges and details crisp with a new filter ideal for portrait shots. Also, a new selection of Online Albums, based on Adobe Flash® technology, offers users a richer interactive experience.
New Membership on Photoshop.com Inspires Users and Keeps Them Connected
Users can push their creativity even further with Photoshop.com membership, offered in two levels, Basic1 and Plus2. For those who want fresh, creative project ideas delivered straight to the desktop, the option to purchase an annual Photoshop.com Plus membership guarantees inspiration will come on a regular basis in the form of new tutorials, seasonal artwork, themed templates and more. In addition, Photoshop.com Plus membership provides 20GB of storage - enough for 15,000 photos, four hours of DVD-quality videos or a combination of both. Online back-up keeps memories safe from computer failure or natural disaster, with access from anywhere, via a personal account linked to the software. Photoshop.com Basic membership can be experienced for free, providing 5GB of storage, access to photos and videos virtually anywhere and online photo sharing in a fun interactive environment.
Photoshop.com members also will be able to upload photos directly from a mobile phone. The addition of Photoshop.com Mobile beta, a rich Adobe Flash® based mobile application, offers camera phone users the easiest way to upload, share and access photos using their Photoshop.com account. Photoshop.com Mobile runs in the background and allows consumers to take photos, send messages and run other applications while pictures are being uploaded to their Photoshop.com account. To learn more about Photoshop.com Mobile and for a list of supported phones, visit http://www.adobe.com/products/pscom/mobile/ .
More information about Photoshop.com membership can be found at:
www.adobe.com/products/photoshopelwin/membership/ .
Pricing and Availability
Adobe Photoshop Elements 7 and Adobe Premiere Elements 7 for Windows will be available in local retail outlets such as Best Buy, Circuit City, Costco (Photoshop Elements 7 only), Office Depot, Office Max and Staples in October 2008. Consumers can pre-order the products at www.adobe.com , www.amazon.com , www.bestbuy.com and www.costco.com . The products will be available separately for US$99.99. Photoshop Elements 7 & Premiere Elements 7 bundle also will be available for US$149.99.
Photoshop.com Plus membership will be available for purchase from within the products for US$49.99 and Basic membership can be experienced for free. Information about other language versions, as well as pricing, upgrade and support policies for other countries is available at www.adobe.com/go/photoshopelements . Photoshop.com membership is available in the U.S. only.
*Source: The NPD Group / Retail Tracking Service (April 2002 to April 2008) based on units sold (North America).
1. Photoshop.com Basic membership does not require the purchase of any Adobe product, including Photoshop Elements 7 and Premiere Elements 7.
2. With Photoshop.com Plus membership, annual membership terms apply.
About Adobe Systems Incorporated
Adobe revolutionizes how the world engages with ideas and information - anytime, anywhere and through any medium. For more information, visit www.adobe.com .
Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM Lens Review
Handling
The review lens was supplied with a Canon mount and we tested it on our EOS 5D and EOS 40D camera bodies. On both cameras it was a snug fit - but nonetheless quite easy to mount and remove. Its balance was equally good with both camera bodies but it may be a tad weighty with lighter cameras.
The HSM drive was smooth and quiet and autofocusing was fast and accurate, only slowing slightly at low light levels and with subjects where contrast was very low. Manual focusing was almost as smooth, although we found a slight resistance as the focus approached infinity. You can switch from auto to manual focusing without having to move the slider on the lens, thanks to full-time manual focus override.
Performance
With each of the camera bodies we used for our tests, the review lens turned in an excellent performance, producing sharp images with accurate colours and no evidence of colour bias or coloured fringing. Backlit subjects were handled very well and shots showed little evidence of flare or ghosting.
Imatest showed the lens to be capable of high resolution, although it revealed some edge softening, particularly around the middle of the aperture range. We obtained the highest resolution figures with the EOS 5D at apertures between f/4.5 and f/11 and with the EOS 40D between f/2.8 and f/9. The graphs below show the results of our tests on each camera.
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
The review lens was supplied with a Canon mount and we tested it on our EOS 5D and EOS 40D camera bodies. On both cameras it was a snug fit - but nonetheless quite easy to mount and remove. Its balance was equally good with both camera bodies but it may be a tad weighty with lighter cameras.
The HSM drive was smooth and quiet and autofocusing was fast and accurate, only slowing slightly at low light levels and with subjects where contrast was very low. Manual focusing was almost as smooth, although we found a slight resistance as the focus approached infinity. You can switch from auto to manual focusing without having to move the slider on the lens, thanks to full-time manual focus override.
Performance
With each of the camera bodies we used for our tests, the review lens turned in an excellent performance, producing sharp images with accurate colours and no evidence of colour bias or coloured fringing. Backlit subjects were handled very well and shots showed little evidence of flare or ghosting.
Imatest showed the lens to be capable of high resolution, although it revealed some edge softening, particularly around the middle of the aperture range. We obtained the highest resolution figures with the EOS 5D at apertures between f/4.5 and f/11 and with the EOS 40D between f/2.8 and f/9. The graphs below show the results of our tests on each camera.
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2: Review
If you, like many, run a PC then Lightroom 2 is the best photo workflow software available on the market. If you find working with raw nothing but time-consuming hassle, the Lightroom 2 will positively change your outlook and open up a whole world of creativity. Applying keywords and metadata, significant raw processing power and clever searchable cataloguing all happen in one place - if you shoot a lot, work on specific projects over long periods of time, then this is the ideal program to keep you deftly organised.
Anyone using a previous version of Lightroom wondering whether it's worth upgrading? In a word - yes. The localised adjustment alone warrants the £80 upgrade. The 64bit software revolution seems to be starting too, so why not get on the bandwagon and reap the full benefit of your uber-powerful computer, starting with Lightroom 2.
more : thinkcamera
Mike Lowe
Anyone using a previous version of Lightroom wondering whether it's worth upgrading? In a word - yes. The localised adjustment alone warrants the £80 upgrade. The 64bit software revolution seems to be starting too, so why not get on the bandwagon and reap the full benefit of your uber-powerful computer, starting with Lightroom 2.
more : thinkcamera
Mike Lowe
Canon EOS 50D & 18-200mm hands-on previews
Almost exactly a year after the arrival of the EOS 40D, Canon has announced the 50D, which we're assured will be a sister-model, rather than a replacement. Recent history has seen Canon release new models every 18 months-or-so but it's been a busy year with newcomers such as the Nikon D300 getting a lot of attention in the 40D's keen amateur/professional segment. The 50D puts essentially a 40D body wrapped around a newly-developed 15 megapixel sensor that finally rectifies the situation in which Canon's x0D range trailed the company's entry-level line, in pixel terms. Canon is claiming that the new sensor's design (new manufacturing processes, redesigned photo diodes and micro lenses) mean that despite the higher resolution the noise is actually lower than the 40D, something we'll obviously be putting to the test when we get our hands on a production model.
The other big change is the inclusion of a new, high-resolution LCD screen. 920,000 dots mean that it can convey 640 x 480 RGB pixels, making it effectively a VGA standard monitor. Three anti-reflection layers built into the screen do their best to keep it useable in bright conditions, too.
There are various other changes and added features, with many of them stemming from the first appearance of the Canon's Digic 4 processor. The key differences between the 50D and 40D are detailed below.
Richard Butler, Lars Rehm and Simon Joinson
more : dpreview
The other big change is the inclusion of a new, high-resolution LCD screen. 920,000 dots mean that it can convey 640 x 480 RGB pixels, making it effectively a VGA standard monitor. Three anti-reflection layers built into the screen do their best to keep it useable in bright conditions, too.
There are various other changes and added features, with many of them stemming from the first appearance of the Canon's Digic 4 processor. The key differences between the 50D and 40D are detailed below.
Richard Butler, Lars Rehm and Simon Joinson
more : dpreview
Canon announces EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens
Canon today strengthens its EF-S series of lenses with the launch of a versatile new model: the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS. With an equivalent focal length of 29-320mm, the lens offers an 11x zoom range – making it a powerful, lightweight alternative to carrying multiple lenses.
The EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is designed exclusively for use with EOS cameras featuring an EF-S lens mount – including the new EOS 50D, EOS 1000D, EOS 450D, and earlier models.
High quality optics
The EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS features a 16 element, 12 group construction. This includes UD and aspherical lens elements, which minimise chromatic aberration and ensure crisp, corner-to-corner detail across the zoom range. A close focusing distance of just 45cm offers photographers total framing flexibility.
4-stop Image Stabilizer
A Canon 4-stop optical Image Stabilizer – specially designed for the lens’ specific focal length range - works to counteract image blur that can occur when shooting handheld, or at slow shutter speeds. Automatic panning detection ensures effective performance when tracking moving subjects. Plus, because the IS system is based in the lens, results are visible through the viewfinder during framing.
No flare or ghosting
Reflection off a digital camera’s image sensor can cause flare and ghosting. To suppress this, the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS uses optics treated with Canon’s patented Super Spectra coatings – for crisp, undistorted images with natural colour balance.
Pricing & Availability
The EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is available from end of September 2008 priced at £549.99 / €729.99 RRP inc. VAT.
The EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is designed exclusively for use with EOS cameras featuring an EF-S lens mount – including the new EOS 50D, EOS 1000D, EOS 450D, and earlier models.
High quality optics
The EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS features a 16 element, 12 group construction. This includes UD and aspherical lens elements, which minimise chromatic aberration and ensure crisp, corner-to-corner detail across the zoom range. A close focusing distance of just 45cm offers photographers total framing flexibility.
4-stop Image Stabilizer
A Canon 4-stop optical Image Stabilizer – specially designed for the lens’ specific focal length range - works to counteract image blur that can occur when shooting handheld, or at slow shutter speeds. Automatic panning detection ensures effective performance when tracking moving subjects. Plus, because the IS system is based in the lens, results are visible through the viewfinder during framing.
No flare or ghosting
Reflection off a digital camera’s image sensor can cause flare and ghosting. To suppress this, the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS uses optics treated with Canon’s patented Super Spectra coatings – for crisp, undistorted images with natural colour balance.
Pricing & Availability
The EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is available from end of September 2008 priced at £549.99 / €729.99 RRP inc. VAT.
Canon Announces EOS 50D Digital SLR
CANON U.S.A. STIMULATES THE CREATIVITY OF EXPERIENCED PHOTOGRAPHERS WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE NEW EOS 50D DIGITAL SLR CAMERA
Canon's New DIGIC 4 Image Processor Fuels the 15.1 Megapixel Resolution, Expanded ISO Range and Enhanced Noise Reduction of the New EOS 50D Digital SLR
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., August 26, 2008 – With the demand for digital SLR cameras reaching unprecedented levels, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, is answering the call with the announcement of the next evolution in advanced amateur digital SLR photography, the EOS 50D Digital SLR Camera with 15.1 megapixel resolution and Canon's new DIGIC 4 image processor. Designed to offer extraordinary quality and image control for the advanced photographer with a passion for the art, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera includes an expanded ISO range, improved noise reduction, and in-camera photo editing features. Canon has loaded the EOS 50D camera with a number of enhancements and some trickle-down technology from Canon's professional Digital SLR cameras, as well as a new Creative Auto Mode (CA) that gives users more creative flexibility to make image setting adjustments conveniently without the need to be a photo expert.
Canon has built upon the success of the popular EOS 40D model - which will remain in Canon's line - with the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera. Expected to be the camera body of choice for advanced amateur photographers this holiday season, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera carries over the EOS 40D's 14-bit Analog-to-Digital conversion process for smooth tones, and also includes enhanced noise reduction, especially at higher ISO ranges which will help bring those romantic nighttime shots into greater focus and clarity. Capable of shooting 6.3 frames per second (fps), the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera is ideal for shooting everything from beautiful night landscapes to fast-action sports.
"Advanced amateur photographers blur the line between the hobbyist and the professional, looking for professional features and capabilities in their equipment that will allow them to capture that awe-inspiring image. Canon is constantly striving to provide these shooters with the most advanced imaging technology, like the new EOS 50D Digital SLR camera, to fuel their passion for photography, and help them achieve their creative potential," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
Improved Image Quality
The EOS 50D Digital SLR camera's 15.1-megapixel CMOS APS-C size image sensor has been improved thanks to the use of newly designed gapless microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and expand sensitivity up to ISO 12800. The faster processing speed of the camera's DIGIC 4 image processor contributes to the fast 6.3 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting capability (for bursts of up to 90 Large/Fine JPEGs or 16 RAW images on a UDMA CF card), to give shooters the tools they need to capture that perfect moment in perfect clarity.
The Canon EOS 50D camera provides ISO speeds from ISO 100 up to ISO 3200 in 1/3-stop increments, along with two high-speed settings - H1 and H2 - of ISO 6400 and ISO 12800, respectively. Along with a wide ISO range, Canon gives shooters more tools to help maximize clarity and color. The EOS 50D Digital SLR camera offers multiple levels of noise reduction during high-speed shooting. Users can choose from one of four settings- Standard/Weak/Strong/None - to help reduce digital noise that can result from poor lighting conditions.
As part of the camera's internal image processing, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera conducts peripheral illumination correction, which automatically evens brightness across the image field, making an image of a blue sky even toned throughout, a function previously accomplished through post-processing software on a personal computer. Thanks largely to the DIGIC 4 processor, this automatic adjustment can be made in-camera during shooting with JPEG images or corrected in post-photoshoot processing with RAW images through Canon's Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, which is supplied at no extra charge.
Helping to ensure each picture's subject is clearly visible, Canon's enhanced Auto Lighting Optimizer analyzes the brightness of subjects and automatically adjusts dark images so that they appear brighter, perfect for subjects in shade or in backlit situations. The Auto Lighting Optimizer on the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera has been updated not only to optimize images while they are being taken, but can also optimize images post-capture, during playback, to help ensure the subject of each image does not appear too dark. This is especially helpful when an amateur photographer uses the camera, because post-capture enhancement can help maximize image quality without the need of a computer.
A significant upgrade to the Canon EOS 50D camera is its large, clear 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen which features 920,000 dot/VGA resolution, four times the pixel count of the EOS 40D camera's screen, for better clarity and color. To help show off those fantastic shots, the EOS 50D camera includes an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) output to display crisp, clear images on a High-Definition TV. The EOS 50D recognizes the needs of today's photographers, and the faster processing speed of the DIGIC 4 processor helps support UDMA cards for faster writing of image files.
The camera is also equipped with a high-performance viewfinder featuring 0.95x magnification and the same high-performance Autofocus (AF) system as the EOS 40D camera with nine cross-type sensors for accurate target subject acquisition with lenses possessing maximum apertures of f/5.6 or faster and a high-precision diagonal center cross-type AF point that's effective with f/2.8 and faster lenses, helping photographers ensure better focus of their targets. The AF Microadjustment feature, originally introduced last year with the Canon EOS-1D Mark III professional digital SLR camera, has also been added to the EOS 50D for maximum control over focusing precision.
Canon Gets Creative For Advancing Amateurs
Canon is taking steps to give advanced amateurs more flexibility with a new "CA" Creative Full Auto setting on the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera's mode dial. This new setting goes a step beyond Full Auto, by allowing users to make adjustments before shooting while still in an Automatic mode, without needing to know the meaning of technical terms such as aperture, shutter speed, etc. In this mode, the camera menu on the back screen spells out options in common language for average photo enthusiasts, allowing them to "blur the background" or "lighten or darken the image." These easy-to-comprehend image options will help amateur photographers improve the shots they are capable of taking, while helping them learn new techniques. When in the new CA mode, users will be able to adjust flash settings, brighten or darken images, blur the background, set the camera's drive mode, and select a picture style directly on the camera's LCD screen.
Better Live View
For photographers who prefer to frame their shots using the camera's 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen, Canon has improved the Live View function of the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera to include "Quick Mode AF," "Live Mode AF," and "Face Detection Live Mode AF" that detects up to 35 individual forward-looking faces for better focus and clarity when taking group or portrait shots. The camera's Quick Mode AF setting flips the mirror down and carries out regular phase-detection autofocus, while the Live Mode AF and Face Detection Live Mode AF use the camera's CMOS image sensor for contrast detection autofocus. Two detailed grid displays have also been added to Live View shooting as optional settings for easier composition.
Two Small RAW Formats
In addition to the RAW and JPEG image capture modes that photographers are accustomed to, the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera now offers more manageable resolution settings and file sizes with two sRAW recording formats, sRAW1 and sRAW2. At the sRAW1 setting, resolution is 7.1 megapixels with a file size that is approximately 25 percent smaller than a standard 15.1 megapixel RAW image. With the sRAW2 setting, resolution is 3.8 megapixels at less than half the file size of a standard RAW image, retaining all of the flexibility and creative possibilities associated with full-size, conventional RAW images. The EOS 50D is the first Canon Digital SLR that allows the use of RAW and sRAW settings in Basic Zone as well as Creative Zone shooting modes, even further improving the camera's flexibility.
EOS Integrated Cleaning System
The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit for the Canon EOS 50D has also been upgraded and now includes a fluorine coating on the low-pass filter for better dust resistance. The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit uses ultrasonic vibrations to shake dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor each time the camera is powered up or shut down. The second part of the system includes a software component where sensor spots are mapped and saved as Dust Delete Data that is attached to the image file for removal during post processing using Canon's DPP software.
Pricing and Availability
The EOS 50D is compatible with the full lineup of Canon EF lenses as well as the Company's ever-growing line of affordable EF-S lenses created specifically for Canon Digital SLRs with APS-C size image sensors. The Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera is scheduled for October delivery and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated selling price of $1,399.00*. It will additionally be offered in a kit version with Canon's EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens at an estimated selling price of $1,599.00*.
New EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
Canon has answered the call from advanced amateur photographers looking for a solid all-around lens with the introduction of the new EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. With an incredible focal length range equivalent to 29-320mm in the 35mm format, the new EF-S 18-200mm lens will make an excellent addition to any camera bag, and it gives shooters a great lens to capture both standard as well as telephoto images. The new lens features Canon's built in Optical Image Stabilization system which gives the equivalent effect of a shutter speed roughly 4 steps faster, for better image clarity, even in shaky shooting conditions. With a minimum focusing distance of 0.45m/1.5 ft. at all zoom settings, this new lens should prove to be ideal for those situations where swapping lenses isn't an option. An ideal complement to the EOS 50D SLR camera and all other EF-S compatible EOS SLR cameras, the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens is scheduled to be in stores this October at an estimated selling price of $699.00*.
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2007†, with global revenues of $39.3 billion, is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America and is on the 2007 BusinessWeek list of "Top 100 Brands." To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/pressroom.
Canon's New DIGIC 4 Image Processor Fuels the 15.1 Megapixel Resolution, Expanded ISO Range and Enhanced Noise Reduction of the New EOS 50D Digital SLR
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., August 26, 2008 – With the demand for digital SLR cameras reaching unprecedented levels, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, is answering the call with the announcement of the next evolution in advanced amateur digital SLR photography, the EOS 50D Digital SLR Camera with 15.1 megapixel resolution and Canon's new DIGIC 4 image processor. Designed to offer extraordinary quality and image control for the advanced photographer with a passion for the art, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera includes an expanded ISO range, improved noise reduction, and in-camera photo editing features. Canon has loaded the EOS 50D camera with a number of enhancements and some trickle-down technology from Canon's professional Digital SLR cameras, as well as a new Creative Auto Mode (CA) that gives users more creative flexibility to make image setting adjustments conveniently without the need to be a photo expert.
Canon has built upon the success of the popular EOS 40D model - which will remain in Canon's line - with the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera. Expected to be the camera body of choice for advanced amateur photographers this holiday season, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera carries over the EOS 40D's 14-bit Analog-to-Digital conversion process for smooth tones, and also includes enhanced noise reduction, especially at higher ISO ranges which will help bring those romantic nighttime shots into greater focus and clarity. Capable of shooting 6.3 frames per second (fps), the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera is ideal for shooting everything from beautiful night landscapes to fast-action sports.
"Advanced amateur photographers blur the line between the hobbyist and the professional, looking for professional features and capabilities in their equipment that will allow them to capture that awe-inspiring image. Canon is constantly striving to provide these shooters with the most advanced imaging technology, like the new EOS 50D Digital SLR camera, to fuel their passion for photography, and help them achieve their creative potential," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
Improved Image Quality
The EOS 50D Digital SLR camera's 15.1-megapixel CMOS APS-C size image sensor has been improved thanks to the use of newly designed gapless microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and expand sensitivity up to ISO 12800. The faster processing speed of the camera's DIGIC 4 image processor contributes to the fast 6.3 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting capability (for bursts of up to 90 Large/Fine JPEGs or 16 RAW images on a UDMA CF card), to give shooters the tools they need to capture that perfect moment in perfect clarity.
The Canon EOS 50D camera provides ISO speeds from ISO 100 up to ISO 3200 in 1/3-stop increments, along with two high-speed settings - H1 and H2 - of ISO 6400 and ISO 12800, respectively. Along with a wide ISO range, Canon gives shooters more tools to help maximize clarity and color. The EOS 50D Digital SLR camera offers multiple levels of noise reduction during high-speed shooting. Users can choose from one of four settings- Standard/Weak/Strong/None - to help reduce digital noise that can result from poor lighting conditions.
As part of the camera's internal image processing, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera conducts peripheral illumination correction, which automatically evens brightness across the image field, making an image of a blue sky even toned throughout, a function previously accomplished through post-processing software on a personal computer. Thanks largely to the DIGIC 4 processor, this automatic adjustment can be made in-camera during shooting with JPEG images or corrected in post-photoshoot processing with RAW images through Canon's Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, which is supplied at no extra charge.
Helping to ensure each picture's subject is clearly visible, Canon's enhanced Auto Lighting Optimizer analyzes the brightness of subjects and automatically adjusts dark images so that they appear brighter, perfect for subjects in shade or in backlit situations. The Auto Lighting Optimizer on the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera has been updated not only to optimize images while they are being taken, but can also optimize images post-capture, during playback, to help ensure the subject of each image does not appear too dark. This is especially helpful when an amateur photographer uses the camera, because post-capture enhancement can help maximize image quality without the need of a computer.
A significant upgrade to the Canon EOS 50D camera is its large, clear 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen which features 920,000 dot/VGA resolution, four times the pixel count of the EOS 40D camera's screen, for better clarity and color. To help show off those fantastic shots, the EOS 50D camera includes an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) output to display crisp, clear images on a High-Definition TV. The EOS 50D recognizes the needs of today's photographers, and the faster processing speed of the DIGIC 4 processor helps support UDMA cards for faster writing of image files.
The camera is also equipped with a high-performance viewfinder featuring 0.95x magnification and the same high-performance Autofocus (AF) system as the EOS 40D camera with nine cross-type sensors for accurate target subject acquisition with lenses possessing maximum apertures of f/5.6 or faster and a high-precision diagonal center cross-type AF point that's effective with f/2.8 and faster lenses, helping photographers ensure better focus of their targets. The AF Microadjustment feature, originally introduced last year with the Canon EOS-1D Mark III professional digital SLR camera, has also been added to the EOS 50D for maximum control over focusing precision.
Canon Gets Creative For Advancing Amateurs
Canon is taking steps to give advanced amateurs more flexibility with a new "CA" Creative Full Auto setting on the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera's mode dial. This new setting goes a step beyond Full Auto, by allowing users to make adjustments before shooting while still in an Automatic mode, without needing to know the meaning of technical terms such as aperture, shutter speed, etc. In this mode, the camera menu on the back screen spells out options in common language for average photo enthusiasts, allowing them to "blur the background" or "lighten or darken the image." These easy-to-comprehend image options will help amateur photographers improve the shots they are capable of taking, while helping them learn new techniques. When in the new CA mode, users will be able to adjust flash settings, brighten or darken images, blur the background, set the camera's drive mode, and select a picture style directly on the camera's LCD screen.
Better Live View
For photographers who prefer to frame their shots using the camera's 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen, Canon has improved the Live View function of the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera to include "Quick Mode AF," "Live Mode AF," and "Face Detection Live Mode AF" that detects up to 35 individual forward-looking faces for better focus and clarity when taking group or portrait shots. The camera's Quick Mode AF setting flips the mirror down and carries out regular phase-detection autofocus, while the Live Mode AF and Face Detection Live Mode AF use the camera's CMOS image sensor for contrast detection autofocus. Two detailed grid displays have also been added to Live View shooting as optional settings for easier composition.
Two Small RAW Formats
In addition to the RAW and JPEG image capture modes that photographers are accustomed to, the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera now offers more manageable resolution settings and file sizes with two sRAW recording formats, sRAW1 and sRAW2. At the sRAW1 setting, resolution is 7.1 megapixels with a file size that is approximately 25 percent smaller than a standard 15.1 megapixel RAW image. With the sRAW2 setting, resolution is 3.8 megapixels at less than half the file size of a standard RAW image, retaining all of the flexibility and creative possibilities associated with full-size, conventional RAW images. The EOS 50D is the first Canon Digital SLR that allows the use of RAW and sRAW settings in Basic Zone as well as Creative Zone shooting modes, even further improving the camera's flexibility.
EOS Integrated Cleaning System
The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit for the Canon EOS 50D has also been upgraded and now includes a fluorine coating on the low-pass filter for better dust resistance. The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit uses ultrasonic vibrations to shake dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor each time the camera is powered up or shut down. The second part of the system includes a software component where sensor spots are mapped and saved as Dust Delete Data that is attached to the image file for removal during post processing using Canon's DPP software.
Pricing and Availability
The EOS 50D is compatible with the full lineup of Canon EF lenses as well as the Company's ever-growing line of affordable EF-S lenses created specifically for Canon Digital SLRs with APS-C size image sensors. The Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera is scheduled for October delivery and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated selling price of $1,399.00*. It will additionally be offered in a kit version with Canon's EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens at an estimated selling price of $1,599.00*.
New EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
Canon has answered the call from advanced amateur photographers looking for a solid all-around lens with the introduction of the new EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. With an incredible focal length range equivalent to 29-320mm in the 35mm format, the new EF-S 18-200mm lens will make an excellent addition to any camera bag, and it gives shooters a great lens to capture both standard as well as telephoto images. The new lens features Canon's built in Optical Image Stabilization system which gives the equivalent effect of a shutter speed roughly 4 steps faster, for better image clarity, even in shaky shooting conditions. With a minimum focusing distance of 0.45m/1.5 ft. at all zoom settings, this new lens should prove to be ideal for those situations where swapping lenses isn't an option. An ideal complement to the EOS 50D SLR camera and all other EF-S compatible EOS SLR cameras, the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens is scheduled to be in stores this October at an estimated selling price of $699.00*.
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2007†, with global revenues of $39.3 billion, is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America and is on the 2007 BusinessWeek list of "Top 100 Brands." To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/pressroom.
Canon EOS 50D - First pictures and more information
There have been some translations of the camera specifications which have suggested that there is in-camera image stabilization. I think the root of this is that the Chinese pages talk about the image being stabilized in the camera VIEWFINDER, i.e. the image "being stabilized in the body". It looks like Canon might be trying to emphasize this to contrast with the in-body stabilization of Sony/Pentax/Olympus, which stabilizes the image by moving the sensor, but does NOT stabilize the reflex viewfinder image. So "in-body" stabilization would better be translated as "in viewfinder stabilization via image stabilized lenses". It would be nice if Canon offered in-body stabilization so we could have a stabilized system with fast primes, but that's not likely to happen anytime soon. Canon have too much invested in stabilized lenses.
So that's it for now. For a more extended discussion of the new features of the Canon EOS 50D and a complete specification list, please see the earlier Canon EOS 50D Preview article. As more information becomes available, I'll update these pages. I expect a full press release from Canon will be coming soon (probably on August 26th), which should clear up a few points which are confusing in the Chinese version. It might also reveal the expected street price and when the camera will be available. I'm guessing availability in mid to late September and a street price of maybe $1300, but those are both just guesses at this point.
more : bobatkins
So that's it for now. For a more extended discussion of the new features of the Canon EOS 50D and a complete specification list, please see the earlier Canon EOS 50D Preview article. As more information becomes available, I'll update these pages. I expect a full press release from Canon will be coming soon (probably on August 26th), which should clear up a few points which are confusing in the Chinese version. It might also reveal the expected street price and when the camera will be available. I'm guessing availability in mid to late September and a street price of maybe $1300, but those are both just guesses at this point.
more : bobatkins
Canon 50D Info Leaked - REAL SPECS!
Canon’s China website has published specifications for the 50D in its public webspace. Although the info is not on the front page of the site yet, it is accessible to anyone. Here is the link (update: it’s down, but this one is still live for the moment 11:51p.m. ET).
We keep check for availability; however, there is no listing on Amazon.com search results or any other vendor yet.
I’ve set forth the relevant translated specs and info below. Please note that the original specs listed here listed in-body IS as a feature. The translation was wrong and the feature has been removed from the spec list below. The specs referenced the advantages and compatibility with lens-based IS instead.
15.1 megapixel CMOS sensor
DIGIC 4
1.6x crop
Dust Reduction
Auto Brightness Processing
95% viewfinder .97 magnification
9 point af (All Cross Type)
35 meter area equipped with high-precision sensors
AF Fine Tuning
ISO 100-12800
6.3 fps (high speed) 3fps (low speed)
Buffer: 16 RAW - 60 JPG - 10 RAW+JPG
920,000 points VGA 3.0-inch LCD monitor
100,000 cycle shutter
Rugged magnesium alloy bodyFull Specifications
more : photographybay
We keep check for availability; however, there is no listing on Amazon.com search results or any other vendor yet.
I’ve set forth the relevant translated specs and info below. Please note that the original specs listed here listed in-body IS as a feature. The translation was wrong and the feature has been removed from the spec list below. The specs referenced the advantages and compatibility with lens-based IS instead.
15.1 megapixel CMOS sensor
DIGIC 4
1.6x crop
Dust Reduction
Auto Brightness Processing
95% viewfinder .97 magnification
9 point af (All Cross Type)
35 meter area equipped with high-precision sensors
AF Fine Tuning
ISO 100-12800
6.3 fps (high speed) 3fps (low speed)
Buffer: 16 RAW - 60 JPG - 10 RAW+JPG
920,000 points VGA 3.0-inch LCD monitor
100,000 cycle shutter
Rugged magnesium alloy bodyFull Specifications
more : photographybay
Canon EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM Lens Review
The autofocusing system on the review lens was up to the challenges presented by its physical dimensions and weight. We found the focus limiter particularly useful when shooting subjects whose distances we could estimate. Autofocusing was almost silent and generally faster than we had expected, even when focus limitation was not engaged, which speaks volumes for the system's capabilities. Hunting was also relatively infrequent for such a fast, long focus lens.
The 5D's bright viewfinder image made focusing manually a viable option. Manual focusing was very smooth with this lens and the ring was very well damped, offering just enough resistance to make setting precise focus relatively easy.
The overall performance of the image stabilisation system was outstanding. Even though there were many blurred shots in our test sequences, when considering the constraints we placed upon the test lens it is surprising we
captured so many shots that could be classed as 'keepers'.
We were unable to run any Imatest tests on this lens because there was insufficient distance leeway in our testing set-up (which only extends to just over 200mm focal length lenses in 35mm format). Consequently, all assessments in this review are, of necessity, subjective.
Resolution in test shots appeared to be at least equal to that of similar shots taken with the EF 200mm f/2L IS USM lens. We found no evidence of coloured fringing (and none was anticipated) in test shots. However, some corner vignetting could be seen at f/5.6, although it was less noticeable at f/8 and no longer evident by f/11. In our opinion, it would never be noticeable enough to impair picture quality.
Colour reproduction was also very good and we found little evidence of flare and ghosting in shots of backlit subjects. The camera was also able to record its full dynamic range. Performance was equally good with both the camera bodies used in Photo Review's tests, which speaks volumes for the overall design and construction of this impressive optic.
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
The 5D's bright viewfinder image made focusing manually a viable option. Manual focusing was very smooth with this lens and the ring was very well damped, offering just enough resistance to make setting precise focus relatively easy.
The overall performance of the image stabilisation system was outstanding. Even though there were many blurred shots in our test sequences, when considering the constraints we placed upon the test lens it is surprising we
captured so many shots that could be classed as 'keepers'.
We were unable to run any Imatest tests on this lens because there was insufficient distance leeway in our testing set-up (which only extends to just over 200mm focal length lenses in 35mm format). Consequently, all assessments in this review are, of necessity, subjective.
Resolution in test shots appeared to be at least equal to that of similar shots taken with the EF 200mm f/2L IS USM lens. We found no evidence of coloured fringing (and none was anticipated) in test shots. However, some corner vignetting could be seen at f/5.6, although it was less noticeable at f/8 and no longer evident by f/11. In our opinion, it would never be noticeable enough to impair picture quality.
Colour reproduction was also very good and we found little evidence of flare and ghosting in shots of backlit subjects. The camera was also able to record its full dynamic range. Performance was equally good with both the camera bodies used in Photo Review's tests, which speaks volumes for the overall design and construction of this impressive optic.
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
Canon EOS 450D Review
Image Quality: Image quality is good - with excellent colour, with high levels of saturation and contrast. Noise is acceptable higher than average compared to the competition, but is low up to ISO400 and detail is good. There was very little red eye in group photos, and generally red-eye was very low. The camera was quick at focusing and didn't hesitate, even in low light. The built in image stabilisation in the lens was very effective. I didn't notice any vignetting (darkened corners) but there were some image artefacts due to the lens used. There is a useful range of image sizes and a good choice of compression options. White balance and metering seemed to be very good with plenty of scope to cope with different lighting situations. The camera gives very good control over image quality and by using the 'picture settings' option there is further control of the resulting image. (9/10)
Everything else (the camera as a whole): The camera is available in black finish and has a strong body. The camera has a very good 3.0" LCD screen that is visible except in bright sunlight. The camera feels well built and is light and comfortable to hold. It is easy to use and has quick access to the most commonly used options. The layout of buttons and controls is excellent and overall shape is comfortable. The camera speed is excellent, with a good switch on time, fast focusing time, excellent shutter response, quick playback mode, quick menus, very good continuous shooting, and good flash recharge time. The camera has a wide range of features that should suit most people, such as numerous scene modes, macro mode and optical image stabilisation. The only thing I'm not convinced by is the 'Live View' mode which could do with some work. (9.5/10)
more : digicamreview
Everything else (the camera as a whole): The camera is available in black finish and has a strong body. The camera has a very good 3.0" LCD screen that is visible except in bright sunlight. The camera feels well built and is light and comfortable to hold. It is easy to use and has quick access to the most commonly used options. The layout of buttons and controls is excellent and overall shape is comfortable. The camera speed is excellent, with a good switch on time, fast focusing time, excellent shutter response, quick playback mode, quick menus, very good continuous shooting, and good flash recharge time. The camera has a wide range of features that should suit most people, such as numerous scene modes, macro mode and optical image stabilisation. The only thing I'm not convinced by is the 'Live View' mode which could do with some work. (9.5/10)
more : digicamreview
Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens Review
There is nothing like the arrival of a new Canon Super Telephoto Lens to bring the excitement of Christmas to any time of the year. And the hit on the credit card from this lens is considerably larger than the hit from most households' Christmas expenditures. The Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens enters the world as, by far, Canon's most expensive lens. This is of course not counting the EF 1200mm f/5.6 that is not in regular production - and costs as much as a small house.
The definite upside to the Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens' high price is that you get Canon's ultimate lens physical qualities and superb Image quality.
The 800 L is sharp wide open from corner to corner and slightly sharper stopped down to f/8. The biggest improvement from stopping down is the reduced vignetting, which is somewhat strong at f/5.6. Exposures at f/5.6 are generally at least 1/3 stop darker even in the center of the frame from what f/8 exposures are - this is the biggest negative attribute of this lens in my opinion (aside from the price of course). Images at f/8 are simply excellent.
The uncropped 1Ds Mark III Rufous-sided Towhee photo above was shot at 1/80 second at f/6.3 and ISO 400. The 800mm focal length nicely magnifies the OOF (Out of Focus) background and, along with an 8-blade rounded aperture, creates a strongly and attractively blurred background. Slight corner darkening caused by a 25mm extension tube (not needed in this case) can be seen in this shot.
CA (Chromatic Aberration) is very low, flare is very well-controlled. Color and contrast are what you would expect from a lens of this caliber. Distortion is absent. There is not much more to say about image quality from the Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens - it is excellent.
more : the-digital-picture
The definite upside to the Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens' high price is that you get Canon's ultimate lens physical qualities and superb Image quality.
The 800 L is sharp wide open from corner to corner and slightly sharper stopped down to f/8. The biggest improvement from stopping down is the reduced vignetting, which is somewhat strong at f/5.6. Exposures at f/5.6 are generally at least 1/3 stop darker even in the center of the frame from what f/8 exposures are - this is the biggest negative attribute of this lens in my opinion (aside from the price of course). Images at f/8 are simply excellent.
The uncropped 1Ds Mark III Rufous-sided Towhee photo above was shot at 1/80 second at f/6.3 and ISO 400. The 800mm focal length nicely magnifies the OOF (Out of Focus) background and, along with an 8-blade rounded aperture, creates a strongly and attractively blurred background. Slight corner darkening caused by a 25mm extension tube (not needed in this case) can be seen in this shot.
CA (Chromatic Aberration) is very low, flare is very well-controlled. Color and contrast are what you would expect from a lens of this caliber. Distortion is absent. There is not much more to say about image quality from the Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens - it is excellent.
more : the-digital-picture
Canon EF 200mm f/2L IS USM Lens Review
We tested the 200mm f/2L lens on two camera bodies: a Canon EOS 5D and a 400D. On the 5D body it was a comfortable fit and nicely balanced - even with the large hood attached. It should be equally at home on any of Canon's professional EOS bodies. All-up weight with the 5D body is around 3.5 kilograms.
The much lighter 400D body was slightly unbalanced and we had to use shutter speeds faster than about 1/800 second for hand-held shots to ensure sharp images. Slower shutter speeds were possible when the lens was tripod mounted. Although most photographers will attach a tripod or monopod to get the most from this lens, it is actually quite usable hand-held (although the tripod mount does get in the way at times). This is largely thanks to the stabilisation system and the overall balance of the lens on the 5D. It's easy to change the orientation of the camera without having to remove it from a tripod by simply unlocking the tripod collar.
Not unexpectedly, focusing can be challenging at wide lens apertures because even small movements are magnified by the lens. However, as mentioned, Canon provides plenty of focusing options. You can engage or disable the AF system by sliding the AF/MF switch and constrain the AF range with the focus limiter. Two options are provided: 1.9 metres to infinity and 3.5 metres to infinity. You can also use the focus pre-set system or override autofocusing with either the AF stop buttons or by simply turning the focusing ring.
Autofocusing was extremely fast, almost silent and very accurate, thanks to the USM technology. AI Servo tracking of moving subjects capitalised on the system's accuracy and speed. The bright viewfinder image made focusing manually a viable option. You can switch from auto to manual by simply turning the focusing ring (manual focusing automatically overrides AF). The focusing ring moves through just under three quarters of a turn as you shift focus from 1.9 metres to infinity.
Manual focusing was very smooth and the ring offers just enough resistance to make setting precise focus easy. The focus limiter was straightforward to use and definitely speeded up autofocusing. Pre-setting a focus distance was also straightforward and quite effective when shooting moving subjects.
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
The much lighter 400D body was slightly unbalanced and we had to use shutter speeds faster than about 1/800 second for hand-held shots to ensure sharp images. Slower shutter speeds were possible when the lens was tripod mounted. Although most photographers will attach a tripod or monopod to get the most from this lens, it is actually quite usable hand-held (although the tripod mount does get in the way at times). This is largely thanks to the stabilisation system and the overall balance of the lens on the 5D. It's easy to change the orientation of the camera without having to remove it from a tripod by simply unlocking the tripod collar.
Not unexpectedly, focusing can be challenging at wide lens apertures because even small movements are magnified by the lens. However, as mentioned, Canon provides plenty of focusing options. You can engage or disable the AF system by sliding the AF/MF switch and constrain the AF range with the focus limiter. Two options are provided: 1.9 metres to infinity and 3.5 metres to infinity. You can also use the focus pre-set system or override autofocusing with either the AF stop buttons or by simply turning the focusing ring.
Autofocusing was extremely fast, almost silent and very accurate, thanks to the USM technology. AI Servo tracking of moving subjects capitalised on the system's accuracy and speed. The bright viewfinder image made focusing manually a viable option. You can switch from auto to manual by simply turning the focusing ring (manual focusing automatically overrides AF). The focusing ring moves through just under three quarters of a turn as you shift focus from 1.9 metres to infinity.
Manual focusing was very smooth and the ring offers just enough resistance to make setting precise focus easy. The focus limiter was straightforward to use and definitely speeded up autofocusing. Pre-setting a focus distance was also straightforward and quite effective when shooting moving subjects.
Margaret Brown
more : photoreview
Lowepro Introduces the Terraclime Series
Check out the newest eco-chic line of camera bags, designed for the digital age and made with more than 95% recycled materials.
Lowepro Launches its Greenest Series of Eco-Friendly, Fashionable Bags Sebastopol, CA (August 1, 2008) - Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, announces the launch of Terraclime multi-purpose digital bags. More than 95% of Terraclime’s materials are recycled, making it Lowepro’s greenest series to date.
Addressing the concerns of eco-conscious, fashion-savvy consumers, Terraclime provides durable, soft-sided protection for a variety of cameras and digital gear—from pouches that hold ultra-compact point-and-shoot models, lenses, GPS units, iPods® and smartphones, to the largest shoulder bag model that carries a DSLR with attached lens.
All bags in the series are constructed of 100% post-consumer, recycled Cyclepet® exterior fabric, using the equivalent of 2½ bottles in the smallest model to 22 bottles in the largest while conserving landfill, energy and crude and refined oil. The spacer mesh, providing a lean yet sturdy layer of protection, is 60% recycled PET. Terraclime’s hardware (including hook closures and zippers) is comprised of plastic regrind, recycled and repurposed industrial trimmings saved from the factory floor.
Adding to the eco-friendly construction is a targeted cause: a portion of the proceeds of each Terraclime will go directly to Polar Bears International (PBI) to support their efforts to save polar bear habitats from the impact of climate change.
“The Terraclime is a continuation of our efforts to preserve the environment while delivering solutions to consumers who need protection for their cameras and digital gear,” said Nicole Mummenhoff, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Lowepro. We’re confident that this series will be an exciting and versatile addition to our growing family of ‘green’ products,” she added.
Terraclime is available in four models—the 10, 30 and 50 pouches, and the 100 shoulder bag. Each features a single compartment with additional pockets for memory cards, personal items or accessories. The 100 model includes zippered interior pocket and a removable Cyclepet® wrap that envelops a camera and provides an additional layer of protection. All models come with adjustable shoulder straps and can be worn over the shoulder or across the body (10, 30 and 50 include belt loops and removable straps).
Designed for the photographer or digital accessory user who wants carrying solutions to be practical, fashionable and thoughtful inside and out, the Terraclime series delivers with style and substance.
Terraclime 10 Dimensions:
Interior: 3.7 W x 1.6 D x 3.1 H inches
9.5 W x 4 D x 8 H centimeters
Exterior: 3.9 W x 1.7 D x 3.3 H inches
10 W x 4.2 D x 8.5 H centimeters
Terraclime 30 Dimensions:
Interior: 4.7 W x 1.7 D x 3.9 H inches
12 x 4.2 x 10 centimeters
Exterior: 4.9 W x 1.8 D x 4.1 H inches
12.5 W x 4.5 D x 10.5 H centimeters
Terraclime 50 Dimensions:
Interior: 5.5 W x 2.6 D x 4.7 H inches
14 W x 6.5 D x 12 H centimeters
Exterior: 5.7 W x 2.8 D x 5.1 H inches
14.5 W x 7 D x 13 H centimeters
Terraclime 100 Dimensions:
Interior: 10.4 W x 4.7 D x 6.7 H inches
26.5 W x 12 D x 17 H centimeters
Exterior: 10.8 W x 5.1 D x 7.1 H inches
27.5 W x 13 D x 18 H centimeters
Terraclime Series Colors:
Black, Plum, Grass
About Lowepro:
Lowepro founder Greg Lowe established the company’s reputation for quality and innovative design in 1967 when he created the world’s first internal-frame backpack. More than 40 years later, Lowepro continues to revolutionize the industry with pioneering designs and superior quality with the most extensive line of protective carrying solutions for photographic and electronic equipment, including products for cameras, notebook computers, imaging accessories and portable consumer electronics.
Lowepro products are distributed in more than 100 countries through photo, outdoor, computer, consumer electronic, mail order and online resellers, in addition to OEM partnerships, Lowepro offices are located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Switzerland and Germany. For more information about Lowepro or Lowepro products, visit www.lowepro.com.
About Polar Bears International
Polar Bears International was founded in 1992 by wildlife photographer Dan Guravich, a Canadian native who was internationally known for his work with polar bears. Dan served as PBI’s first president. He resigned in 1995 for health reasons, but remained active as chairman of the board until his death in 1997. Today, members of the PBI board of directors and advisory council are scattered across the U.S. and Canada. For more information on PBI, visit www.polarbearsinternational.org.
Lowepro Launches its Greenest Series of Eco-Friendly, Fashionable Bags Sebastopol, CA (August 1, 2008) - Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, announces the launch of Terraclime multi-purpose digital bags. More than 95% of Terraclime’s materials are recycled, making it Lowepro’s greenest series to date.
Addressing the concerns of eco-conscious, fashion-savvy consumers, Terraclime provides durable, soft-sided protection for a variety of cameras and digital gear—from pouches that hold ultra-compact point-and-shoot models, lenses, GPS units, iPods® and smartphones, to the largest shoulder bag model that carries a DSLR with attached lens.
All bags in the series are constructed of 100% post-consumer, recycled Cyclepet® exterior fabric, using the equivalent of 2½ bottles in the smallest model to 22 bottles in the largest while conserving landfill, energy and crude and refined oil. The spacer mesh, providing a lean yet sturdy layer of protection, is 60% recycled PET. Terraclime’s hardware (including hook closures and zippers) is comprised of plastic regrind, recycled and repurposed industrial trimmings saved from the factory floor.
Adding to the eco-friendly construction is a targeted cause: a portion of the proceeds of each Terraclime will go directly to Polar Bears International (PBI) to support their efforts to save polar bear habitats from the impact of climate change.
“The Terraclime is a continuation of our efforts to preserve the environment while delivering solutions to consumers who need protection for their cameras and digital gear,” said Nicole Mummenhoff, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Lowepro. We’re confident that this series will be an exciting and versatile addition to our growing family of ‘green’ products,” she added.
Terraclime is available in four models—the 10, 30 and 50 pouches, and the 100 shoulder bag. Each features a single compartment with additional pockets for memory cards, personal items or accessories. The 100 model includes zippered interior pocket and a removable Cyclepet® wrap that envelops a camera and provides an additional layer of protection. All models come with adjustable shoulder straps and can be worn over the shoulder or across the body (10, 30 and 50 include belt loops and removable straps).
Designed for the photographer or digital accessory user who wants carrying solutions to be practical, fashionable and thoughtful inside and out, the Terraclime series delivers with style and substance.
Terraclime 10 Dimensions:
Interior: 3.7 W x 1.6 D x 3.1 H inches
9.5 W x 4 D x 8 H centimeters
Exterior: 3.9 W x 1.7 D x 3.3 H inches
10 W x 4.2 D x 8.5 H centimeters
Terraclime 30 Dimensions:
Interior: 4.7 W x 1.7 D x 3.9 H inches
12 x 4.2 x 10 centimeters
Exterior: 4.9 W x 1.8 D x 4.1 H inches
12.5 W x 4.5 D x 10.5 H centimeters
Terraclime 50 Dimensions:
Interior: 5.5 W x 2.6 D x 4.7 H inches
14 W x 6.5 D x 12 H centimeters
Exterior: 5.7 W x 2.8 D x 5.1 H inches
14.5 W x 7 D x 13 H centimeters
Terraclime 100 Dimensions:
Interior: 10.4 W x 4.7 D x 6.7 H inches
26.5 W x 12 D x 17 H centimeters
Exterior: 10.8 W x 5.1 D x 7.1 H inches
27.5 W x 13 D x 18 H centimeters
Terraclime Series Colors:
Black, Plum, Grass
About Lowepro:
Lowepro founder Greg Lowe established the company’s reputation for quality and innovative design in 1967 when he created the world’s first internal-frame backpack. More than 40 years later, Lowepro continues to revolutionize the industry with pioneering designs and superior quality with the most extensive line of protective carrying solutions for photographic and electronic equipment, including products for cameras, notebook computers, imaging accessories and portable consumer electronics.
Lowepro products are distributed in more than 100 countries through photo, outdoor, computer, consumer electronic, mail order and online resellers, in addition to OEM partnerships, Lowepro offices are located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Switzerland and Germany. For more information about Lowepro or Lowepro products, visit www.lowepro.com.
About Polar Bears International
Polar Bears International was founded in 1992 by wildlife photographer Dan Guravich, a Canadian native who was internationally known for his work with polar bears. Dan served as PBI’s first president. He resigned in 1995 for health reasons, but remained active as chairman of the board until his death in 1997. Today, members of the PBI board of directors and advisory council are scattered across the U.S. and Canada. For more information on PBI, visit www.polarbearsinternational.org.
Lowepro Introduces the Flipside 400 AW Camera Backpack
Designed for a full day of comfortable shooting—rain or shine—and sized to carry a pro DSLR, several lenses and accessories.
The Flipside 400 AW Backpack, Designed for a Full Day of Shooting—Rain or Shine
Sebastopol, CA (August 1, 2008) - Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, announces the launch of Flipside 400 AW, a high-performance camera backpack designed with a large capacity, premium security, all-day comfort, plus protection from the elements.
Flipside 400 AW features a unique back-entry compartment that provides easy access to gear when setting up—keeping the harness off the ground and clean—plus extra security when on the move. With access to gear placed in the rear of the backpack, roving hands are discouraged from reaching into the bag. With the padded waistbelt secured, gear is quickly reached by rotating the entire bag to the front, offering hands-free use and providing a stable work platform while changing batteries, memory cards or setting up for the next shot. To protect expensive gear from the elements, the Flipside 400 AW includes Lowepro’s patented, built-in All Weather Cover™.
“As consumers continue to add to their imaging portfolio, we understand their desire for protective and comfortable carrying solutions for a larger camera plus multiple accessories,” said Nicole Mummenhoff, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Lowepro. “Flipside 400 AW gives them an ideal option for all the gear they may need on an assignment, for travel or during an all-day hike.”
Flipside 400 AW offers expanded capacity with room for a professional DSLR with attached zoom lens and 4-6 additional lenses. Adjustable dividers allow custom organization inside the main compartment. Other features include: a mesh-covered, padded waistbelt, back pad and contoured straps added comfort and wicking away moisture; a hideaway tripod holder to secure a tripod or monopod to backpack; built-in memory card pockets on inside panel; front storage panels and mesh pockets for storing additional gear; attachment loops for SlipLock™ compatible products; and silent zipper pulls.
This newest model follows the success of two smaller-sized companions (Flipside 200 and 300), geared to the amateur who wants the convenience and comfort of a rotating bag. The Flipside 400 AW is ideal for the serious enthusiast or professional photographer who needs peace of mind and a full set of premium features in a sturdy and comfortable camera backpack.
Flipside 400 AW Dimensions:
Interior: 10.6 W x 5.9 D x 16.7 H inches
27 W x 15 D x 42.5 H centimeters
Exterior: 11.9 W x 10 D x 18.1 H inches
30.3 W x 25.3 D x 46 H centimeters
Flipside 400 AW Colors:
Black, Pine Green/Black
About Lowepro:
Lowepro founder Greg Lowe established the company’s reputation for quality and innovative design in 1967 when he created the world’s first internal-frame backpack. More than 40 years later, Lowepro continues to revolutionize the industry with pioneering designs and superior quality with the most extensive line of protective carrying solutions for photographic and electronic equipment, including products for cameras, notebook computers, imaging accessories and portable consumer electronics.
Lowepro products are distributed in more than 100 countries through photo, outdoor, computer, consumer electronic, mail order and online resellers, in addition to OEM partnerships, Lowepro offices are located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Switzerland and Germany. For more information about Lowepro or Lowepro products, visit www.lowepro.com.
The Flipside 400 AW Backpack, Designed for a Full Day of Shooting—Rain or Shine
Sebastopol, CA (August 1, 2008) - Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, announces the launch of Flipside 400 AW, a high-performance camera backpack designed with a large capacity, premium security, all-day comfort, plus protection from the elements.
Flipside 400 AW features a unique back-entry compartment that provides easy access to gear when setting up—keeping the harness off the ground and clean—plus extra security when on the move. With access to gear placed in the rear of the backpack, roving hands are discouraged from reaching into the bag. With the padded waistbelt secured, gear is quickly reached by rotating the entire bag to the front, offering hands-free use and providing a stable work platform while changing batteries, memory cards or setting up for the next shot. To protect expensive gear from the elements, the Flipside 400 AW includes Lowepro’s patented, built-in All Weather Cover™.
“As consumers continue to add to their imaging portfolio, we understand their desire for protective and comfortable carrying solutions for a larger camera plus multiple accessories,” said Nicole Mummenhoff, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Lowepro. “Flipside 400 AW gives them an ideal option for all the gear they may need on an assignment, for travel or during an all-day hike.”
Flipside 400 AW offers expanded capacity with room for a professional DSLR with attached zoom lens and 4-6 additional lenses. Adjustable dividers allow custom organization inside the main compartment. Other features include: a mesh-covered, padded waistbelt, back pad and contoured straps added comfort and wicking away moisture; a hideaway tripod holder to secure a tripod or monopod to backpack; built-in memory card pockets on inside panel; front storage panels and mesh pockets for storing additional gear; attachment loops for SlipLock™ compatible products; and silent zipper pulls.
This newest model follows the success of two smaller-sized companions (Flipside 200 and 300), geared to the amateur who wants the convenience and comfort of a rotating bag. The Flipside 400 AW is ideal for the serious enthusiast or professional photographer who needs peace of mind and a full set of premium features in a sturdy and comfortable camera backpack.
Flipside 400 AW Dimensions:
Interior: 10.6 W x 5.9 D x 16.7 H inches
27 W x 15 D x 42.5 H centimeters
Exterior: 11.9 W x 10 D x 18.1 H inches
30.3 W x 25.3 D x 46 H centimeters
Flipside 400 AW Colors:
Black, Pine Green/Black
About Lowepro:
Lowepro founder Greg Lowe established the company’s reputation for quality and innovative design in 1967 when he created the world’s first internal-frame backpack. More than 40 years later, Lowepro continues to revolutionize the industry with pioneering designs and superior quality with the most extensive line of protective carrying solutions for photographic and electronic equipment, including products for cameras, notebook computers, imaging accessories and portable consumer electronics.
Lowepro products are distributed in more than 100 countries through photo, outdoor, computer, consumer electronic, mail order and online resellers, in addition to OEM partnerships, Lowepro offices are located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Switzerland and Germany. For more information about Lowepro or Lowepro products, visit www.lowepro.com.
Lowepro Introduces SlingShot 350 AW
The newest model in our popular SlingShot AW series features larger capacity and protective space for a widescreen notebook.
Lowepro Adds Notebook-Compatibility to Largest Model in SlingShot AW Series
Sebastopol, CA (August 1, 2008) - Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, announces the launch of SlingShot 350 AW, featuring larger carrying capacity plus a protective space for a widescreen notebook.
The latest addition to the popular sling-style camera backpack series, SlingShot 350 AW is poised to follow the success of its smaller-sized companion models (SlingShot 100 AW, 200 AW and 300 AW) with its unique “carry mode” to “ready mode” design. The ergonomic sling strap evenly adjusts weight and rotates from back to front—making it easy for enthusiasts or professionals to work out of the bag and quickly capture the shot.
The SlingShot 350 AW features a main compartment that comfortably fits a professional DSLR with a 70-200 f/2.8 lens attached plus 5-6 extra lenses or accessories—fully customizable with the adjustable padded dividers.
“We’ve heard from our customers that they appreciate having a camera bag that accommodates their pro-sized gear as well as their notebooks,” said Nicole Mummenhoff, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Lowepro. “The SlingShot 350 AW delivers this multi-use function with a comfortable, fluid design appealing to the photographer on the go.”
A full set of premium features includes a padded notebook compartment sized to fit up to a 15.4” widescreen notebook; a fully adjustable, padded waistbelt to maintain the bag’s comfortable fit; built-in microfiber cloth to protect LCD screen; Hypalon® SlipLock™ attachment loops for adding accessories; and Lowepro’s patented All Weather Cover™ to protect gear from the elements.
The SlingShot 350 AW camera backpack is an ideal, large-capacity solution for the outdoor photographer or enthusiast who wants fast access, all-day comfort, plus room for lots of gear and a notebook
SlingShot 350 AW Dimensions:
Interior: 11.8 W x 6.5 D x 11.8 H inches
30 W x 16.5 D x 30 H centimeters
Exterior: 13 W x 10.8 D x 17.3 H inches
33 W x 27.5 D x 44 H centimeters
SlingShot 350 AW Color:
Black/Gray
About Lowepro:
Lowepro founder Greg Lowe established the company’s reputation for quality and innovative design in 1967 when he created the world’s first internal-frame backpack. More than 40 years later, Lowepro continues to revolutionize the industry with pioneering designs and superior quality with the most extensive line of protective carrying solutions for photographic and electronic equipment, including products for cameras, notebook computers, imaging accessories and portable consumer electronics.
Lowepro products are distributed in more than 100 countries through photo, outdoor, computer, consumer electronic, mail order and online resellers, in addition to OEM partnerships, Lowepro offices are located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Switzerland and Germany. For more information about Lowepro or Lowepro products, visit www.lowepro.com.
Lowepro Adds Notebook-Compatibility to Largest Model in SlingShot AW Series
Sebastopol, CA (August 1, 2008) - Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, announces the launch of SlingShot 350 AW, featuring larger carrying capacity plus a protective space for a widescreen notebook.
The latest addition to the popular sling-style camera backpack series, SlingShot 350 AW is poised to follow the success of its smaller-sized companion models (SlingShot 100 AW, 200 AW and 300 AW) with its unique “carry mode” to “ready mode” design. The ergonomic sling strap evenly adjusts weight and rotates from back to front—making it easy for enthusiasts or professionals to work out of the bag and quickly capture the shot.
The SlingShot 350 AW features a main compartment that comfortably fits a professional DSLR with a 70-200 f/2.8 lens attached plus 5-6 extra lenses or accessories—fully customizable with the adjustable padded dividers.
“We’ve heard from our customers that they appreciate having a camera bag that accommodates their pro-sized gear as well as their notebooks,” said Nicole Mummenhoff, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Lowepro. “The SlingShot 350 AW delivers this multi-use function with a comfortable, fluid design appealing to the photographer on the go.”
A full set of premium features includes a padded notebook compartment sized to fit up to a 15.4” widescreen notebook; a fully adjustable, padded waistbelt to maintain the bag’s comfortable fit; built-in microfiber cloth to protect LCD screen; Hypalon® SlipLock™ attachment loops for adding accessories; and Lowepro’s patented All Weather Cover™ to protect gear from the elements.
The SlingShot 350 AW camera backpack is an ideal, large-capacity solution for the outdoor photographer or enthusiast who wants fast access, all-day comfort, plus room for lots of gear and a notebook
SlingShot 350 AW Dimensions:
Interior: 11.8 W x 6.5 D x 11.8 H inches
30 W x 16.5 D x 30 H centimeters
Exterior: 13 W x 10.8 D x 17.3 H inches
33 W x 27.5 D x 44 H centimeters
SlingShot 350 AW Color:
Black/Gray
About Lowepro:
Lowepro founder Greg Lowe established the company’s reputation for quality and innovative design in 1967 when he created the world’s first internal-frame backpack. More than 40 years later, Lowepro continues to revolutionize the industry with pioneering designs and superior quality with the most extensive line of protective carrying solutions for photographic and electronic equipment, including products for cameras, notebook computers, imaging accessories and portable consumer electronics.
Lowepro products are distributed in more than 100 countries through photo, outdoor, computer, consumer electronic, mail order and online resellers, in addition to OEM partnerships, Lowepro offices are located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Switzerland and Germany. For more information about Lowepro or Lowepro products, visit www.lowepro.com.
Olympus E-520 Review
The Olympus E-520 is a refreshed version of Olympus's upper-entry-level camera, the E-510. As such it's a slightly bulked-up E-420 with image stabilization, which makes it one of the most feature-packed and customizable cameras available for under £500/$800. It loses some of its sibling's compact chic but offers a bigger, longer-lasting battery and a more familiar grip shape to those people familiar with contemporary DSLRs.
Its Four-Thirds sensor (2.43cm2) offers 10 million pixel output and a Live view system that has become commonplace since Olympus pioneered the idea a few years back. It's clearly a camera that comes from a company with a strong heritage of making products for photographers, with useful features such as highlight and shadow spot metering modes sitting alongside a plethora of beginner-friendly point-and-shoot modes.
The whole market has become a much more competitive place since the E-510 first hit the market in March 2007, so has the the newest version done enough to stand out against the increasingly slick APS-C offerings?
Richard Butler
more : dpreview
Its Four-Thirds sensor (2.43cm2) offers 10 million pixel output and a Live view system that has become commonplace since Olympus pioneered the idea a few years back. It's clearly a camera that comes from a company with a strong heritage of making products for photographers, with useful features such as highlight and shadow spot metering modes sitting alongside a plethora of beginner-friendly point-and-shoot modes.
The whole market has become a much more competitive place since the E-510 first hit the market in March 2007, so has the the newest version done enough to stand out against the increasingly slick APS-C offerings?
Richard Butler
more : dpreview
Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 opens for entries
Nikon UK is pleased to announce details of the hugely popular Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009. The competition, now in its 32nd year attracted over 16,000 entrants from 135 different countries and the submission of more than 47,000 images.
Entries for the competition will be accepted from 1 September to 30 November 2008. The theme for the competition is ‘At the Heart of the Image’, which is also the brand statement of the Nikon Imaging Company. With this theme, Nikon challenges photographers to capture images that reflect a passion for photography and demonstrates the richness and human diversity of life.
As in previous years, there will be two categories - a ‘Free Subject’ category for which photographers are free to choose the subject of their images and a category called ‘My Planet’ which encourages people to enter submissions that involve the environment, or scenes from daily life. Entries will be judged by a team of professional photographers from around the world.
Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the NIKKOR brand, there will be an extra prize awarded for an outstanding entry, along with the 54 regular prizes and the overall grand winner. The competition is open to all who love taking pictures – amateurs, as well as professional photographers from all over the world part of the world. The winning photographs and the names of the winners will be published on the NPCI website and will feature at NPCI exhibitions.
With the NPCI 2008-2009, Nikon Europe continues to support the international humanitarian organisation “Right to Play”, by donating 2 Euros for each participant from Europe and Africa. “Right to Play” aims to develop life skills, improve health and foster peace for disadvantaged children, by means of sports and play programmes.
Martina Beckmann, Manager Communications and Marketing Services at Nikon Europe B.V. says: “With NPCI, Nikon wants to stimulate people around the world to discover the joy of photography, letting them and others experience the communicative power of images. We are convinced that all contestants will again rise to the exciting challenge. This year, we hope that even more photographers will take part, for the sake of the competition, and at the same time supporting our contribution to “Right to Play’s” great cause.
For NPCI competition rules and entry form, please visit www.nikon-is-different.com/npci
Wanted: Avid Photographers And Nature Lovers
The Annual 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest Challenges Photo Enthusiasts to Explore, Experience and Capture America’s Federal Lands
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 18, 2008 – The National Park Foundation and Olympus Imaging America Inc. challenge everyone who can point and click to grab their camera, head to a federal land, and enter the 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest. This year’s official contest is sponsored by the National Park Foundation and Olympus in partnership with the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service.
The 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest will run from August 18, 2008 through December 31, 2008 and showcases the more than 500 million acres of Federal Lands, drawing entries from all across the United States.
All 2008 entrants will have the opportunity to win one of five exciting prize packages with a total of 14 winners. The Grand Prize winner will earn the international honor of having the winning image grace all the 2010 "Federal Recreation Lands Pass," an annual admission that provides access to all participating Federal Land Management Agency sites where an entrance fee is charged. Additionally, the grand prize winner will receive an Olympus E-3 DSLR digital camera kit and a five-day, four-night trip to a Federal Recreation Land of his/her choice.
"The National Park Foundation is grateful to Olympus for supporting the 8th annual federal lands photo contest, providing park goers with the opportunity to discover the beauty and diversity of our nation’s protected lands and share that experience with all of America," said Vin Cipolla, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation. "By entering in the 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest, individuals can take part in a truly American pastime: helping others see the beauty and value of our national parks. The National Park Foundation is delighted to sponsor this year’s contest with Olympus to get people out to the parks to capture great photo memories."
"Olympus is proud to be the official sponsor of the National Parks photo contest," said F. Mark Gumz, President, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "We offer shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof and highly portable cameras, which are perfect for capturing the parks’ elements in any season. We are committed to respecting nature and promoting healthy, active lifestyles. We encourage everyone to capture our nation’s parks through photography while leaving these majestic lands untouched for future generations to appreciate."
Citizens and legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter by submitting up to three photo entries online at www.sharetheexperience.org; or via mail in a hand-written, stamped envelope to:
Share the Experience Official Federal Recreation Lands Photo Contest
c/o ePrize, LLC
PO Box 8070
Royal Oak, MI 48068
All photographs entered must be taken in one of the Federal Recreation Agency Lands between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008, must be original creations, and must be submitted by the original photographer. PLEASE SEE OFFICIAL RULES AT www.sharetheexperience.org.
Mail-in entries must be postmarked by December 31, 2008 and received by the close of business on January 8, 2009. Each envelope must include only one entry. All photos will be judged on creativity; photographic quality; visual appeal; appropriateness; ability to show diversity and the richness of the Federal Recreation Lands.
Additionally, the public will be able to view an online photo gallery of 2008 submissions from January 9, 2009 – January 16, 2009 and vote on their favorites from January 17, 2009 - January 31, 2009.
About the National Park Foundation
The National Park Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization chartered by Congress in 1967 to continue a century-long tradition of private philanthropy ensuring funding to preserve and enhance the legacy of our National Parks. As the official non-profit partner of America’s National Parks, the National Park Foundation does not receive federal appropriations for their support. The National Park Foundation serves to strengthen the connection between the American people and their national parks by raising private funds, making strategic grants, creating innovative partnerships and increasing public awareness. Support of the National Park Foundation ensures that the evolving history and rich heritage of our Nation remains vital and relevant.
About Olympus Imaging America Inc.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets. Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhances peoples’ lives every day. These include:
* Digital and Film Cameras as well as related Underwater Products and Accessories
* Professional Digital SLR Imaging Systems as well as related Underwater Products and Accessories
* Digital and Microcassette Recorders
* Digital Media
* Binoculars
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.For more information, visit: www.olympusamerica.com.
Contacts:
National Park Foundation
Anne Marek, Director, Media and Public Relations
(202) 354-6480
amarek@nationalparks.org
Olympus Imaging America Inc.
Jennifer Lyons, PR Manager
(484) 896-5350
jennifer.lyons@olympus.com
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 18, 2008 – The National Park Foundation and Olympus Imaging America Inc. challenge everyone who can point and click to grab their camera, head to a federal land, and enter the 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest. This year’s official contest is sponsored by the National Park Foundation and Olympus in partnership with the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service.
The 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest will run from August 18, 2008 through December 31, 2008 and showcases the more than 500 million acres of Federal Lands, drawing entries from all across the United States.
All 2008 entrants will have the opportunity to win one of five exciting prize packages with a total of 14 winners. The Grand Prize winner will earn the international honor of having the winning image grace all the 2010 "Federal Recreation Lands Pass," an annual admission that provides access to all participating Federal Land Management Agency sites where an entrance fee is charged. Additionally, the grand prize winner will receive an Olympus E-3 DSLR digital camera kit and a five-day, four-night trip to a Federal Recreation Land of his/her choice.
"The National Park Foundation is grateful to Olympus for supporting the 8th annual federal lands photo contest, providing park goers with the opportunity to discover the beauty and diversity of our nation’s protected lands and share that experience with all of America," said Vin Cipolla, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation. "By entering in the 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest, individuals can take part in a truly American pastime: helping others see the beauty and value of our national parks. The National Park Foundation is delighted to sponsor this year’s contest with Olympus to get people out to the parks to capture great photo memories."
"Olympus is proud to be the official sponsor of the National Parks photo contest," said F. Mark Gumz, President, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "We offer shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof and highly portable cameras, which are perfect for capturing the parks’ elements in any season. We are committed to respecting nature and promoting healthy, active lifestyles. We encourage everyone to capture our nation’s parks through photography while leaving these majestic lands untouched for future generations to appreciate."
Citizens and legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter by submitting up to three photo entries online at www.sharetheexperience.org; or via mail in a hand-written, stamped envelope to:
Share the Experience Official Federal Recreation Lands Photo Contest
c/o ePrize, LLC
PO Box 8070
Royal Oak, MI 48068
All photographs entered must be taken in one of the Federal Recreation Agency Lands between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008, must be original creations, and must be submitted by the original photographer. PLEASE SEE OFFICIAL RULES AT www.sharetheexperience.org.
Mail-in entries must be postmarked by December 31, 2008 and received by the close of business on January 8, 2009. Each envelope must include only one entry. All photos will be judged on creativity; photographic quality; visual appeal; appropriateness; ability to show diversity and the richness of the Federal Recreation Lands.
Additionally, the public will be able to view an online photo gallery of 2008 submissions from January 9, 2009 – January 16, 2009 and vote on their favorites from January 17, 2009 - January 31, 2009.
About the National Park Foundation
The National Park Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization chartered by Congress in 1967 to continue a century-long tradition of private philanthropy ensuring funding to preserve and enhance the legacy of our National Parks. As the official non-profit partner of America’s National Parks, the National Park Foundation does not receive federal appropriations for their support. The National Park Foundation serves to strengthen the connection between the American people and their national parks by raising private funds, making strategic grants, creating innovative partnerships and increasing public awareness. Support of the National Park Foundation ensures that the evolving history and rich heritage of our Nation remains vital and relevant.
About Olympus Imaging America Inc.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets. Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhances peoples’ lives every day. These include:
* Digital and Film Cameras as well as related Underwater Products and Accessories
* Professional Digital SLR Imaging Systems as well as related Underwater Products and Accessories
* Digital and Microcassette Recorders
* Digital Media
* Binoculars
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.For more information, visit: www.olympusamerica.com.
Contacts:
National Park Foundation
Anne Marek, Director, Media and Public Relations
(202) 354-6480
amarek@nationalparks.org
Olympus Imaging America Inc.
Jennifer Lyons, PR Manager
(484) 896-5350
jennifer.lyons@olympus.com
Canon Rebel XS Review
Canon has been building budget priced dSLRs for almost 6 years now. Since the debut of the original Digital Rebel back in 2003, Canon has been offering users the sophistication of an interchangeable lens system, at a price level that nowadays is just beyond high-end (prosumer) consumer digicams (sub $700). For 2008 Canon released two models, the 12-megapixel Rebel XSi we reviewed earlier in the year, and now the Rebel XS. Deemed the actual replacement of the Rebel XTi, the XS seems more like a "detuned" XSi in my opinion. This new model still retains the same 10-megapixel CMOS imaging sensor, ISO 100-1600 sensitivity range and 2.5-inch LCD found on the XTi, but most all of the other features are shared with its big brother. These include Canon's DIGIC III processor, EF-S 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6 IS (Image Stabilized) kit lens, Live View function, integrated EOS Cleaning and Dust Delete Data Detection systems, LP-E5 Li-ion battery pack, SD/SDHC memory card usage, etc. The exceptions to this are continuous JPEG shooting at 3.0fps until the memory card is full, and an all new 7-point AF system (compared to the 9-point system on the XTi/XSi).
The XS offers the same exposure mode options as found on the XSi too. This means beginners have several "Basic" or Automatic exposure modes to choose from (like Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Sports, etc.) that will allow them to capture great shots in almost any situation. For the more experienced users, The XS offers various "Creative" modes, that will let you control as much of the exposure process as you feel comfortable with. These include Program AE, Shutter speed priority (Tv), Aperture priority (Av), full Manual, and Automatic depth-of-field (A-DEP). There are also various Picture Style modes along with 12 Custom Functions that will allow you to further extend you creative abilities. For those who want ultimate control, there's the RAW image capture mode. This combination of User-friendliness and precise control are what make the Rebel series such a great "stepping stone" into the dSLR world. Users can have confidence that they will be able to capture beautiful photographs, regardless of the photographic knowledge.
more : steves-digicams
The XS offers the same exposure mode options as found on the XSi too. This means beginners have several "Basic" or Automatic exposure modes to choose from (like Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Sports, etc.) that will allow them to capture great shots in almost any situation. For the more experienced users, The XS offers various "Creative" modes, that will let you control as much of the exposure process as you feel comfortable with. These include Program AE, Shutter speed priority (Tv), Aperture priority (Av), full Manual, and Automatic depth-of-field (A-DEP). There are also various Picture Style modes along with 12 Custom Functions that will allow you to further extend you creative abilities. For those who want ultimate control, there's the RAW image capture mode. This combination of User-friendliness and precise control are what make the Rebel series such a great "stepping stone" into the dSLR world. Users can have confidence that they will be able to capture beautiful photographs, regardless of the photographic knowledge.
more : steves-digicams
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