Product News

Bowens grabs the Limelite with a new division and a new product launch
International lighting equipment manufacturer Bowens International has launched Limelite – a new commercial subdivision created to service the growing videography and broadcast market.

And the new brand has announced its first product – the Limelite M7 7″ HD Field Monitor.

Tim Haskell, the division’s business development manager and videography/broadcast specialist, is heading the day to day operations of the new sub brand.

He said: “Limelite has been formed to deal exclusively with the burgeoning videography and broadcast marketplace.  This launch enables the company to diversify its product range whilst continuing to develop new and innovative lighting solutions for its traditional photographic market under the Bowens brand.”

He added: “Every new Limelite product – and we have a number in the pipeline to follow the M7 Field Monitor launch – will underpin the Bowens mission to provide customers with high-spec, innovative, robust and competitively priced professional equipment.”

The Limelite M7 Field Monitor is a compact, battery and mains-powered monitor built for use with HD-DSLR and video cameras. The unit can handle signals from a wide range of camera sources and does not require HDMI splitters to relay the signal to an additional monitor or external device.  It will be demonstrated at Focus on Imaging at The NEC in March and will have a price tag of £275 (ex VAT).

Added Haskell: “We see this monitor as a ‘must-have’ for every videographer. Users accustomed to hand-holding DSLR cameras for stills capture are now having to adapt  for videography – and it’s difficult to effectively shoot video with a camera at eye level. Our solution is the M7 which allows both the camera user and, if necessary, their clients, to easily view what the camera sees, whether the M7 is mounted on the camera or onto a support rig. Its specification includes a hotshoe swivel mount and the widest viewing angle in its class (150 degrees).”

Key features:

* Compact, lightweight, 16:9/4:3, pro-grade 7″ HD field monitor kit
* Super high 1024×600 native resolution – 25% more pixels than comparable monitors. Accepts up to 1920×1280
* Exceptionally wide 150-degree viewing angle
* Ultra bright 700:1 contrast ratio
* Wide range of user-adjustable menu settings?User-programmable function buttons for personalised control
* HDMI, Component, Composite and Video inputs plus HDMI output (loop through) – no need for expensive HDMI splitters

Kit includes

* Canon LP-E6, Sony NP-F and V-mount battery adaptors plus AC mains adaptor
* Optional Panasonic DU-21, Sony NP-QM and Anton Bauer battery adaptors available
* 6-24v DC input (XLR4 input provided). Accepts power from battery belts, broadcast cameras etc.
* Mounts to any 3/8″ support devices – hotshoe swivel mount and desktop mounts supplied
* Detachable sunshade and HDMI-Mini HDMI cable included
The Limelite M7 will be available from selected photo and video stockists.
www.limelite.uk.com

Following the success of the smaller version (1510), Peli launch a new 1560 Laptop Overnight Case. This practical and stylish laptop trolley case has the outstanding reputation for equipment protection associated with Peli cases.

Providing secure transportation for your laptop and travel gear, the 1560 Laptop Overnight Case (1560LOC) features a detachable padded sleeve to protect 15-17″ laptops. There are separate accessories pouches that also attach to the lid while a cloth lined clothes storage unit is located in the base of the case.

Studio Case Version
The 1560 case is also available as a Studio Case with the laptop sleeve and accessories pouches in the lid and padded dividers in the base, Ideally suited as a mobile studio, the padded dividers safely cushion and protect cameras, lenses etc.

The 1560 Peli Protector case features stainless steel ball bearing, polyurethane wheels and an extension handle for easy transportation, as well as rubberised front and side grip handles for maximum comfort. The case also features stainless-steel, reinforced padlock protectors to defend against cutting and theft.

The 1560 LOC and 1560 SC are new to the range of rugged protector cases from Peli, all are backed by the “You break it, we replace it” guarantee. For more details Tel: 01457 869999 or go to www.peliproducts.co.uk.

Color Confidencehas today announced the launch of the new range of camera bags from Booq.

Four new bags, the Python courier, Python pack, Python sling and Python toploader combine the signature aesthetics associated with Booq and the practicality required by photographers.  The Python range of bags is available from resellers across the country and more information can be found on www.colorconfidence.com

“Booq are synonymous with outstanding design and functionality creating bags which are tailored with the user in mind, commented Geoffrey Clements, Managing Director, Color Confidence. “The new Python range features all of the form and function we would expect from Booq with the level of quality not seen in camera bags up to now. We believe this an exciting new entry into the photo bag market”.

The Python courier is a shoulder bag designed to protect a large DSLR with attached lens, up to four additional lenses or similarly sized equipment, and an iPad. Inside its rigid camera compartment, contoured padded walls cradle your camera for easy access, and densely padded dividers can be configured to fit your gear of choice.

The Python toploader camera bag is a shoulder bag designed to protect either any size DSLR with a larger lens attached, or a DSLR with a smaller lens attached plus a second small lens. Dense padding all-around protects your gear, and a removable padded divider may be used to separate a lens, charger or any other equipment you choose to keep at the bottom of the bag.

The Python pack is a backpack designed for 1-2 DSLRs, up to 4 mid-size lenses, 1 large zoom lens, tripod, iPad, and a MacBook up to 15-inch. Its ergonomic shoulder strap design and side-loading camera compartment lets you access your gear while wearing the bag. A variety of pockets include concealed interior slots designed to be used to securely store accessories and flash cards, and its large laptop compartment is perfectly sized for a 15-inch MacBook Pro or magazines.

The Python sling is a sling bag designed for 1-2 DSLRs, up to 4 mid-size lenses, 1 large zoom lens, tripod, plus an 11 or 13-inch MacBook Air or iPad. Its one-strap design and side-loading camera compartment lets you access your gear while wearing the bag. Inside its rigid camera compartment, contoured padded walls cradle your camera for easy access, and densely padded dividers can be configured to fit your gear of choice.

A variety of pockets include concealed interior slots designed to be used to securely store accessories and flash cards, and its large back pocket, protected from the elements via a water-repellant zipper, is perfectly sized for a 13-inch MacBook Air, magazines, or an iPad.

Pricing and availability

All four bags are available immediately from Color Confidence and photographic resellers across the country.  

Warranty

All Booq bags come with a full five year warranty as standard. 

Please contact your local reseller for more information on these exciting new bags. To learn more visit www.colorconfidence.com

Nikon enhances its COOLPIX Performance range with the introduction of the COOLPIX P310, a powerful compact camera that is prepared for serious photography.

The new 16-megapixel camera boasts a bright f/1.8 NIKKOR 4.2x optical zoom lens with wide-angle coverage, back-illuminated CMOS sensor, advanced lens shift vibration reduction, Full HD movie recording, 7.5 cm (3.0-in.) high resolution LCD monitor and customisable function button.

James Loader, Product Manager for Consumer Products at Nikon UK, comments: “The P310 is an ideal choice for photographers looking for a combination of stunning image quality and portability from a compact camera. Its super bright f/1.8, 24mm ultra wide angle zoom lens produces images with exceptional resolution and detail, whilst the manual modes and image stabilisation technology give extra flexibility.”

Unleash your potential: the COOLPIX P310
The P310 combines Nikon’s cutting-edge imaging technology with the fastest NIKKOR lens ever featured in a COOLPIX model, to create an exceptional pocket camera. The extremely bright and lightening quick f/1.8 lens, together with a highly sensitive backlit CMOS sensor, delivers pin-sharp images even when shooting at night or in challenging lighting conditions.

Full creative control is guaranteed, thanks to four manual exposure modes: Programmed Auto (P), Shutter-priority (S), Aperture-priority (A) and Manual (M). When capturing complex subjects, the P310′s new smart AF system means you can shoot in manual focus with a 99-point autofocus system for extra-sharp results. What’s more, once an ideal camera setting has been found, a customisable function button allows you to set a shortcut, bypassing the menu to return to the same setup. 

To ensure steady shots, Nikon’s second-generation advanced lens-shift vibration reduction counters the effect of camera shake and enables the use of shutter speeds that are up to four stops slower.

Even when filming in Full HD (1080p) with stereo sound, advanced features such as optical zoom with autofocus are available. Giving even more options, the COOLPIX P310 can film in slow or fast motion using recording speeds of up to 120fps. A built-in HDMI connector lets you connect the camera directly to an HDTV, to view your photos and films instantly with family and friends.

Pricing information
RRP: £299.99 / €354
Sales start date: 22nd March 2012

The COOLPIX P310 comes in two colours, black and white.

Canon has added to its premium IXUS range with the launch of two new touch screen models – the IXUS 510 HS and the IXUS 240 HS. Fusing design with Canon’s signature image quality and new Wi-Fi functionality, both models promise to make it easier than ever to shoot photos and Full HD movies in exceptional detail and share them instantly with friends and family.

Combining a high quality and compact 12x optical zoom with a highly-pocketable, luxurious and chic design, the IXUS 510 HS is the perfect take anywhere camera for style-conscious users, while the IXUS 240 HS’s slim and elegant design and fun functionality are ideal for shooting and sharing images, anytime and anywhere.

Quality meets design

Canon’s advanced imaging technology ensures superb results, no matter the subject being shot or the conditions. Both models feature cutting-edge genuine Canon lens technology, enabling the capture of sweeping vistas or distant detail with the powerful zooms in each camera.

The IXUS 510 HS’s 28mm wide-angle 12x optical zoom lens packs into a body measuring just 19.8 mm front-to-back, while the IXUS 240 HS’s 24mm ultra-wide-angle 5x optical zoom lens comes in a high-grade, super-slim body – offering exceptional quality and versatility. Canon’s ZoomPlus technology means users can extend the zoom of their camera and get even closer to the action, while maintaining higher quality than traditional digital zoom.

With ZoomPlus, the IXUS 510 HS’ zoom extends beyond its 12x optical zoom to 21x, while the IXUS 240 HS reaches past its 5x optical zoom to 10x. The IXUS 510 HS and IXUS 240 HS also feature Canon’s Intelligent IS, providing advanced image stabilisation that offers the freedom to shoot a range of subjects with confidence. Harnessing each model’s 3.5-stop optical Image Stabilizer, Intelligent IS rapidly analyses the shooting scene and automatically adjusts the camera’s settings, selecting from seven (Normal IS, Panning IS, Macro IS, Dynamic IS, Powered IS, Dynamic & Macro IS and Tripod Mode )different stabilisation modes to ensure photos and movies remain clear and with minimal blur.

Powered by Canon’s HS System, which optimally combines high resolution, high-sensitivity CMOS sensors with next-generation DIGIC 5 processing, both models promise to offer image quality that reflects what the eye sees. Offering supreme performance in all conditions, and especially in low light, both the IXUS 510 HS and IXUS 240 HS allow users to capture and share experiences with incredible levels of detail and clarity.

Sharing made easy

With the new models, users can instantly share their favourite images and movies, whenever and wherever they may be thanks to new integrated Wi-Fi connectivity (Wi-Fi use may be restricted in certain countries or regions. Wi-Fi support varies by device and region.

The new CameraWindow application allows photos and movies to be wirelessly transferred directly to a range of Apple iOS (Compatible with iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPad, iPad 2, iPod touch (4th generation) mobile devices for instant sharing on the move. Using the same application, users can also share photos via email, upload them to Facebook with their own comments, or even upload movies to YouTube.

Also launching today with the new IXUS models is the newly designed and enhanced CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, Canon’s online facility for sharing photos and video.  Now providing up to 10 GB of personal storage capacity, it is perfect for storing many photos, even in full resolution.

An easy interface allows users to search for images, create combined photo and movie Albums that can receive comments from friends, and to share Albums directly via email and Social Networking Sites. With the new Wi-Fi IXUS models, photos can be uploaded directly to the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY without the need for a computer, using just the cameras’ wireless menus and home wireless networks.

Complete control at your fingertips

Both models feature large, bright and vibrant 8.0 cm (3.2″) PureColor II Touch LCD displays with sharp 460,000-dot resolution, giving exceptional colours and accurate contrast. They are ideal for reviewing newly-captured images and movies and showcasing them to friends.

The highly responsive touch navigation and customisable on-screen icons provide quick, easy access to camera settings, menus and a user’s entire photo collection, so photos can be quickly selected to upload to social networks and comments even typed in. The touchscreen also powers Canon’s Touch Shutter functionality which makes it possible to compose and shoot with a single touch of the screen.

Point and shoot creativity

For those who like to point and shoot for excellent images, Canon’s latest Smart Auto mode now identifies up to 58 different scenes. The new Face Identification (Face ID) functionality included within Smart Auto enables users to get the best possible shots of friends and family, making it easy to capture tricky subjects with new levels of clarity.

Face ID allows users to register family faces and their birthdays within the camera, it then stores this information, and with Smart Auto adjusts image settings accordingly. For example, when taking a picture of a sleeping baby, Face ID will identify the subject, automatically disengage the flash and adjust the exposure to give the image a brighter feel. If a child over the age of two is identified, the camera will automatically engage Servo AF in anticipation of movement, enabling sharper pictures of children that are often difficult to capture.

Users can even browse their photos in-camera by name, so images of their friends and family can be easily and quickly searched and reviewed. Each model also features Multi-area White Balance which detects multiple light sources and corrects the colour balance for each, delivering natural images in challenging conditions featuring multiple light sources. An enhanced range of creative shooting modes also expands the gamut of effects users can explore, with two new modes added.

In addition to Toy Camera, Miniature and Fish-eye Effect, new Smooth Skin Effect improves portraits by smoothing out skin textures, while Soft Focus Effect simulates the dreamy effect provided by a dedicated soft-focus lens. Both new modes offer three effect levels, enabling the user to pick a level to suit the subject.

High resolution stills, high-definition video

In addition to exceptional stills, the new IXUS 510 HS and IXUS 240 HS feature Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound. A dedicated movie record button enables instant switching from stills to movies, while optical zoom can also be utilised in both cameras in movies. Integrated HDMI connectivity also enables sharing with friends and family using HD TV screens.

To help tell the story behind a day’s images, Movie Digest mode captures four seconds of movie before each still shot is taken and then merges all the clips together in HD (720p) quality for a fun reminder of the day’s events.

The IXUS 510 HS: Compact, catwalk style

The IXUS 510 HS takes IXUS style to a new high. With a 10.1MP high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and exceptional 12x optical zoom, users can enjoy the flexibility to capture a range of subjects in exceptional quality, and then share images instantly using the integrated Wi-Fi connectivity.

The IXUS 510 HS’s sleek, sharp-edged exterior truly epitomises the IXUS luxury design philosophy, offering a stylish, compact body that can be taken anywhere. The futuristic lens cover and brushed matte finish, available in striking black or white, also adds to the premium styling.

The IXUS 240 HS: Style and ease-of-use

The IXUS 240 HS is perfect for anyone looking for a camera that fuses style with substance. Its 16.1 MP resolution offers exceptional detail, while its ultra-wide angle 24mm 5x optical zoom genuine Canon lens offers great flexibility that can be carried in virtually any pocket.

Available in five contemporary metallic colours so users can pick a style to match their personality, the IXUS 240 HS is ideal for social shooting, such as holidays or evenings out with friends – allowing high quality images to be shared immediately after they are taken.

IXUS 510 HS – key features

12x optical zoom in a tiny, chic metal body HS System: 10.1 MP CMOS and DIGIC 5 Intelligent IS Wi-Fi for easy image sharing 8.0 cm (3.2″) touch screen with Touch Shutter Full HD movies, HDMI Smart Auto (58 scenes) Face ID High-speed shooting Movie Digest (720p)

IXUS 240 HS – key features

Slim metal body; 24mm, 5x optical zoom HS System: 16.1 MP CMOS and DIGIC 5 Intelligent IS Wi-Fi for easy image sharing 8.0 cm (3.2″) touch screen with Touch Shutter Full HD movies, HDMI   Smart Auto (58 scenes) Face ID High-speed shooting Movie Digest (720p)

Pricing and Availability

The IXUS 510 HS is available from April 2012, priced at £349.00/€399.00 RRP incl. VAT. The IXUS 240 HS is available from March 2012, priced at £279.00/€319.00 RRP incl. VAT.

Color Confidence today announce launch and availability of DataColor SpyderPRINT and SpyderSTUDIO.

Color Confidence, Europe’s leading value added distributor into the digital imaging markets, has today announced the launch and availability of the new SpyderPRINT and SpyderSTUDIO.

Following the recent launch of the Spdyer4Elite, Spyder4Pro and Spyder4Express, these new launches complete the arrival of the Spyder4 range.  The SpyderPRINT (printer profiling) and the SpyderSTUDIO (monitor and printer profiling) combine ease of use and professional functionality to offer photographers a simple way to achieve accurate colour. The range is available immediately from photographic and consumer electronics resellers across the country, as well as online at www.colorconfidence.com. 

Visitors to Focus on Imaging, at Birmingham’s NEC, 4-7th March will have the first opportunity to see these products live on the Color Confidence stand, C11.

One of the most common issues photographers have is that their print doesn’t match what they see on screen.  Both display and printer calibration are essential to provide a base for superior print matching. This greatly reduces wasted paper and ink with your printed output. 

It starts with the screen – as no two devices display the exact same colour, precise calibration is imperative in order to ensure consistent, true colour representation. In addition, even calibrated monitors, TVs and tablets will gradually decrease in accuracy, requiring colour calibration every one to two months in order to display sharp, accurate colours, shadows and highlights.

Once your screen is accurate, ensuring that the paper you use it profiled so that the printer uses the correct settings for optimum results is essential. 

“Monitor calibration is just the start of ensuring accurate colour; it needs to be a fully managed approach from capture of an image all the way through to final print. The SpyderPRINT and SpyderSTUDIO provide the tools that photographers require to get accurate colour and outstanding images.” Commented Geoffrey Clements, Managing Director, Color Confidence. “The launch of the Spyder4 range has seen significant interest from consumers. The new SpyderPRINT and SpyderSTUDIO products continue in the same path of providing users with enhanced functionality and features whilst retaining the ease of use that DataColor is renowned for.” 

SpyderSTUDIO

SpyderSTUDIO is a complete colour calibration solution designed for photographers who need the highest level of colour control in the studio and flexibility in post-production. It provides everything you need from capture, to edit, to print for the utmost in accuracy and colour management. Consider this your digital darkroom that brings you easy-to-use, full-featured, photographer-oriented solutions for your digital workflow. With solutions from RAW Camera calibration to quick and easy custom ICC printer profiles, you’ll get colours you can rely on. 

SpyderSTUDIO includes:
 
SpyderPRINT- Printer profiling
Spyder4Elite – Professional monitor profiling
Spyder Cube – Camera RAW caibration
 
SpyderPRINT 

SpyderPRINT is the full-featured solution that photographers choose to manage colour in their print output. By selecting any combination of printer, ink and media in the software, SpyderPRINT provides a full assortment of tools to let you push the limits of advanced inkjets to create gallery quality prints in colour and black and white. SpyderPRINT gives you full control of your printer output with the ability to create any number of custom profiles to ICC Standards. 

Pricing and Availability

SpyderPRINT and SpyderSTUDIO are available at photographic and consumer electronics retailers nationwide or online at www.colorconfidence.com. The SpyderPRINT is priced at £299.99, and the SpyderSTUDIO at £449.99. All prices are inclusive of VAT.

Both SpyderPRINT and SpyderSTUDIO along with the remainder of the Spyder4 range are available immediately, although supply is likely to be constrained during February due to heavy demand for the new products.

The Sigma Corporation has announced the new SIGMA DP1 Merrill and SIGMA DP2 Merrill. These high image quality compact digital cameras feature a 46 megapixel (4800×3200×3 layers) FOVEON X3 direct image sensor.

The SIGMA DP1 Merrill and SIGMA DP2 Merrill are the next generation of high image quality digital cameras which incorporate a newly developed 46 megapixel large image sensor in a compact body. The full-colour FOVEON X3 direct image sensor ensures outstanding resolution and natural rendering with rich gradation as well as a three-dimensional feel. The manual focus ring and custom QS (Quick Set) mode improve the user interface.

About the generation-name “Merrill”
The Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor uses technology originally developed by the late Dick Merrill (1949-2008), a brilliant engineer and talented photographer. This revolutionary image capture system reflects both the artistic and technological sides of Merrill’s personality. As an expression of Sigma’s passion for photography and in honour of Dick Merrill’s genius, we have named the latest generation of the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor the Foveon Merrill.

46 megapixel. 23.5×15.7mm Full-colour X3 Merrill sensor
The 23.5×15.7mm full-colour FOVEON X3 direct image sensor featured in the SIGMA DP Merrill series, incorporates 46 effective megapixels (4,800×3,200×3 layers) and 44 recording megapixels (4,704×3,136×3 layers). The FOVEON X3 direct image sensor captures all primary RGB colours at each and every pixel location with 3 layers, ensuring the capture of full and complete colour. Since colour moiré is not generated, the use of a low-pass filter is not required, meaning both light and colour is captured with a three-dimensional feel.

Dual TRUE II image processing engine
The SIGMA DP Merrill series incorporate a dual “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II” image processing engine dedicated to FOVEON X3 direct image sensor. This improves the processing speed and overall quality of the final image. By incorporating two TRUE II processors, Sigma’s unique image-processing algorithm provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones.

Exclusively designed high performance lenses
The exclusively designed lenses for the SIGMA DP Merill series are developed to maximise the sensor performance. For the SIGMA DP1 Merrill, a 19mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 28mm on a 35mm SLR camera, and for SIGMA DP2 Merrill, a 30mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 45mm on a 35mm SLR camera. FLD (“F” Low Dispersion), which has a performance equal to fluorite glass, and molded glass aspherical lenses correct aberrations. The superior telecentric optical design improves image quality throughout the frame by passing on information about subjects to the sensor. The Super Multi Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting, which makes it usable even under severe conditions such as taking photos against or towards the sun.

RAW+JPEG format recording
The SIGMA DP Merrill series obtain a RAW data recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality captured through the direct image sensor, plus a JPEG recording format for convenience. The RAW data format of the DP Merrill series keep brightness and colour data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. When the image is processes in SIGMA Photo Pro, it will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality. It is also possible to record RAW data and JPEG data simultaneously to provide more convenience.

SIGMA Photo Pro
The supplied image processing software, “SIGMA Photo Pro”, converts RAW data quickly and easily. While looking at photographed images, it is possible to render desired photographic expression by moving the slider from side to side. It incorporates functions such as a loupe, exposure picker, print, JPEG conversion, and batch white balance settings.

Manual Focus
Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not desired. It is possible to use the focus ring for focusing just like an SLR camera. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.

Advanced User Interface
The custom quick set menu and the metallic command dial are incorporated to improve usability. The diaphragm, shutter speed and menu can be changed quickly using the command dial. The Quick Set (QS) menu which consists of the most commonly used functions can be easily displayed by pressing the QS button. It allows photographers to change the menu content and the order depending on their preferences.

SD card
The DP Merrill series adopt the SD Card (SDHC compatible) which is compact and easy to carry.

Large, highly visible 3.0″ TFT colour LCD Monitor
The DP Merrill series feature a 3.0 inch TFT colour monitor with approximately 920,000 pixel resolution. The monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to capture details and to check focusing and composition.

Hot Shoe
The DP Merrill series cameras are equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of Sigma’s optional dedicated external flashgun, the EF-140 DG as well as SIGMA electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-610 DG Super (optional) and EF-610 DG ST (optional).

Dedicated lens hood
The optional dedicated bayonet lens hood can be attached to block out extraneous light.

Movie Mode
Movies can be recorded with VGA (640×480) size. The number of shooting frames per second is 30 frames.

SIGMA DP Merrill Special Site : www.SIGMA-DP.com/DP-Merrill

Nikon today announces two new super-zoom cameras. The COOLPIX P510, successor to the COOLPIX P500, offers a 42x optical NIKKOR zoom lens that reaches a powerful 1000mm super-telephone focal length, down to a 24mm wide-angle. It also packs a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and advanced lens-shift vibration reduction. The 16-megapixel L810, successor to the COOLPIX L120, gets closer to the action than ever, thanks to a 26x extreme wide-angle optical zoom lens.

“The P510 is able to capture incredible detail from long distances thanks to its staggering 42x zoom lens which features Nikon’s advanced lens-shift vibration reduction for guaranteed steady shots,” comments James Loader, Product Manager for Consumer Products at Nikon UK. “The L810 also features an impressive super-zoom which, combined with the easy to use functionality, makes it ideal for capturing special memories.”

Zooming beyond expectations: the high performance COOLPIX P510
An excellent performer with unparalleled range, the compact COOLPIX P510 boasts a 42x zoom, a tiltable high resolution 921K-dot LCD monitor and Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound.

For everything from wide-angle shots of a group of friends to long-reaching frames of dolphins out at sea, the astonishingly powerful wide-angle to super-telephoto range of the COOLPIX P510 covers all circumstances. Its 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and advanced lens-shift vibration reduction ensure sharp shooting in any light, so that even at longer focal lengths, frames remain steady and subjects are pin-sharp. 

One-touch access to movie mode means you can switch easily from taking stills to filming in Full HD (1080p) with stereo sound. Optical zoom and autofocus functions are still available when filming, and the COOLPIX P510 can record in slow or fast motion using speeds of up to 120 fps (VGA). Movies can be shot in iFrame format and a built-in HDMI connector lets you connect the camera directly to an HDTV, to view photos and films straight away with family and friends.

The tiltable high resolution LCD monitor will help you discover your creative side, making it easy to take shots from above or below to get a different perspective. Built-in GPS records the exact location where a picture was taken as a geotag in the image data.

The COOLPIX P510 comes in three colours: Black, red and dark grey.

Affordable performance built for life: the COOLPIX L810
With a super-zoom lens and 720p movie recording, the COOLPIX L810 offers great technology that is easy-to-use to make sure memorable moments are reliably captured. Easy Auto mode optimises all settings according to the light you are in, making shooting effortless.

The NIKKOR 26x extreme wide-angle optical zoom lens with 22.5-585mm range will cover everything from sweeping vistas to distant action. Meanwhile, an innovative side control lever ensures smooth, steady zooming throughout the entire focal range whether filming or shooting still images, and Lens shift VR (vibration reduction) counters the effects of camera shake. Meanwhile, a 16-megapixel CCD image sensor and four different automatic anti-blur functions ensure sharp images every time.

All this is powered by convenient AA batteries so you don’t have to worry about running out of power- whether you’re at home or travelling abroad.
The COOLPIX L810 comes in four colours: Black, red, blue and bronze.

Pricing information:
COOLPIX P510: £399.99 / €471
COOLPIX L810: £229.99 / €271
Sales start date for COOLPIX P510 and L810: 22nd March 2012

Canon today unveils its new SELPHY compact photo printer, the SELPHY CP810, designed to make photo-lab quality printing on the move, or at home, quick and easy.

Replacing the SELPHY CP800, the new model offers a number of improvements, boasting a slimmer, compact and more portable design, expanded creative features and improved usability. The SELPHY CP810 is ideal for those looking for a convenient printer that delivers high quality prints in less than a minute (Applicable to postcard size-printing).

The lightweight, portable design also provides a suitable option for business users who want to offer on-the-spot ID Photos or instant photo printing services.   Photos can be printed directly from a range of compatible memory cards, or from any PictBridge-compatible device, such as a camera or camcorder.

The SELPHY CP810 can also print from USB flash memory sticks or from mobile phones via the integrated USB port, enabling instant output without the need for a computer.

Easy operation
For enhanced viewing and operation, a tilting 6.8 cm (2.7″) colour LCD screen features at the heart of the SELPHY CP810 operation. With support for 13 languages, images can be viewed easily and printed with a simple press of a button.

Lab-quality prints, wherever you are
To produce the best prints, the improved Auto Image Optimizer function increases the quality of the print output compared to the quality of the original digital image, recognising scenes and improving the subject by making specific adjustments – for example controlling the brightness or contrast.

In addition, a selectable Smooth Skin effect evens out skin blemishes for more flattering portraits, and manual brightness adjustment can be applied to fine-tune the prints produced. By using dye sublimation technology, the SELPHY CP810 gives images superb depth and gradation of colour, providing a similar look and feel to traditional photo lab prints without the wait.

Prints are dry and ready for handling the second they leave the printer, resistant to scratches, spills and fading. The SELPHY CP810 is capable of producing postcard (148 x 100mm), L (119 x 89mm), and credit card (86 x 54mm) sized prints in super-quick time, on a range of Canon photographic media. The SELPHY CP810 also offers a range of image layout options, including the ID Photo layout which enables users to print a range of standard or custom-sized ID Photo images on a single sheet of paper.

The SELPHY CP810 offers portable printing and has an optional NB-CP2L battery pack, giving the ability to print instantly whilst on the move. Ensuring that the printer is only portable when needed, a security cable, such as a Kensington lock, can also be attached to the added security slot on the printer body, while an optional Dust Protection Cover protects the printer and consumables when operating in dusty environments.

Join the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY community
Owners of the new Canon SELPHY CP810 can also join the newly updated CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, an online facility for sharing photos and video, now providing up to 10 GB of personal storage capacity, perfect for storing many photos, even in full resolution. An easy interface allows users to search for images, create combined photo and movie Albums that can receive comments from friends, and to share Albums directly via email and Social Networking Sites.

SELPHY CP810 Key features
Stylish ultra-compact photo printer 6.8 cm (2.7″) tilt LCD Range of print sizes Print from memory cards, PictBridge compatible cameras and USB flash drives 100 year prints (100 year figure based on accelerated tests, for further information see specifications) Trimming function 13 display languages available

Pricing and Availability
The SELPHY CP810 is available from May 2012, priced at £99.00/€109.00 RRP incl. VAT.

The Sigma Corporation this week announce the new SIGMA SD1 Merrill, the latest high resolution and high image quality digital SLR camera featuring a 46 megapixel (4800×3200×3 layers) FOVEON X3(r) direct image sensor.

The SIGMA SD1 Merrill is the flagship model which incorporates a full-colour FOVEON X3(r) direct image sensor. It adopts a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy body along with buttons and connected parts sealed with O-rings, enhancing the durability as well as preventing dust and water from getting inside the camera.

The Dual TRUE II processing engine and DDR III buffer ensure high speed processing of images without lowering the quality. The 46 megapixel (4800×3200×3 layers) sensor ensures outstanding resolution and natural rendering with rich gradation as well as a three-dimensional feel.

About the generation-name “Merrill”
The Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor uses technology originally developed by the late Dick Merrill (1949-2008), a brilliant engineer and talented photographer. This revolutionary image capture system reflects both the artistic and technological sides of Merrill’s personality. As an expression of Sigma’s passion for photography and in honour of Dick Merrill’s genius, we have named the latest generation of the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor the Foveon Merrill.

46 megapixel 23.5×15.7mm full-colour X3 Merrill sensor
The 23.5×15.7mm full-colour FOVEON X3(r) direct image sensor featured in the SIGMA SD1 Merrill, incorporates 46 effective megapixels (4,800×3,200×3 layers) and 44 recording megapixels (4,704×3,136×3 layers). The FOVEON X3(r) direct image sensor captures all primary RGB colours at each and every pixel location with 3 layers, ensuring the capture of full and complete colour.

Dual TRUE II image processing engine
The SIGMA SD1 Merrill incorporates a dual “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II” image processing engine dedicated to the FOVEON X3(r) direct image sensor. This improves the processing speed and overall quality of the final image. By incorporating two TRUE II processors, Sigma’s unique image-processing algorithm provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones as well as a three-dimensional feel.

Advanced DDR III buffer
To handle large volumes of colour data at high speed, the SD1 Merrill uses DDR III buffer memory technology which delivers class-leading performance. The SD1 Merrill features a continuous shooting speed of 5 frames per second and can capture up to 7 RAW images per sequence in continuous shooting mode.

Intuitive user interface
The improved user interface provides intuitive operation. Aperture and shutter speed can be changed by their own dials. The functions such as exposure compensation button and exposure mode button are on top of the body for quick access. A Quick Set (QS) menu lets you easily change commonly used functions

CF card
The SD1 adopts the TYPE I CF Card and is compatible with UDMA enabling fast processing of large amounts of data.

Magnesium body
The Sigma SD1 Merrill adopts a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy body designed to withstand rough use and shocks in harsh conditions. Buttons and connected parts are sealed with O-rings to prevent dust and water from getting inside the camera body.

Two-motor system
Using a two-motor system with dedicated motors for mirror-drive and shutter charge reduces the vibration of mirror movement, thereby preventing camera shake. A mirror lock-up mechanism prevents further vibration when the shutter is released. Preventing camera shake is especially important for macro photography and when using ultra-telephoto lenses.

Pentarism viewfinder
The SD1 Merrill features a pentaprism viewfinder with 98% (vertical and horizontal) coverage, 0.95x magnification and an 18mm eye point. Dioptre adjustment is provided over a range of -3 to +1.5.

11 point twin cross sensor
The autofocus system features an 11 point twin cross sensor. The shifted twin cross type sensor improves AF accuracy. The AF point can be selected automatically or manually.

Four metering modes
The SD1 features 77-segment Evaluative Metering, Centre Weighted Average Metering, Centre Area Metering and Spot Metering. When difficult lighting conditions make appropriate exposure unclear, auto bracketing lets you take a sequence of shots of the same subject at three or five different exposure levels. Bracketing can be set in 1/3EV increments up to ±3EV(3levels) or ±1.7EV(5 levels). The 77-segment AE sensor is coordinated with the 11 AF points to achieves accurate exposure even in difficult lightning conditions.

Dust Protector
Most digital SLR cameras are vulnerable to dust entering the body. If dust and dirt adhere to the image sensor, it may appear in the photos. The lens mount of the SD1 Merrill is equipped with a dust protector and the area around is sealed to prevent dust from entering the body. Even in the unlikely event of dust adhering to the image sensor, the dust protector can be removed easily for sensor cleaning.

Focal Plane shutter
The durable focal plane shutter mechanism has a life cycle of over 100,000 exposures and dramatically reduces generation of dust. The photographer can enjoy taking pictures with confidence that the image sensor is clean and protected from dust or dirt originating inside or outside the camera.

Large, highly visible 3.0″ TFT colour LCD Monitor
The SD1 Merrill camera features a 3.0 inch TFT colour monitor which ensures a great visibility even outside in the daytime. This approximately 460,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to capture detail and to check focusing and composition.

Built-in flash with 17mm angle of coverage
The Sigma SD1 Merrill camera’s built-in flash has a guide number of 11 to cover a 17mm lens angle (equivalent to 25.5mm on a 35mm camera). The built-in flash can be synchronized to a shutter speed of up to 1/180 sec. The S-TTL automatic exposure system enables control of advanced flash photography.

SIGMA Photo Pro
The supplied image processing software, “SIGMA Photo Pro”, converts RAW data quickly and easily. While looking at photographed images, it is possible to render desired photographic expression by moving the slider from side to side. It incorporates functions such as a loupe, exposure picker, print, JPEG conversion, and batch white balance settings.

The SD1 Merrill will be available in the UK in mid March.