Hayo Baan's Photography Blog

New: 1 Nikkor 32mm f/1.2 lens for Nikon 1 mirrorless cameras

2013-05-14T21:03:00.000+02:00

Nikon just announced a new lens for their Nikon 1 mirrorless system cameras: The 1 Nikkor 32mm f/1.2.
With a 35mm format equivalent of ±86mm, this ultra wide max aperture lens could be the ideal portrait lens (for the Nikon 1 system), able to provide a very shallow depth of field.

The 1 Nikkor 32mm f/1.2 will be available in June in black and silver, and will cost around $896/€859

Finally: The Canon EF 200-400 f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x

2013-05-14T20:18:00.001+02:00

The lens Canon shooters have been waiting for is finally here! At the end of May the Canon EF 200-400 f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x should be available at the stores.

The new lens, which was seen in action during the 2012 Olympics already, promises to be a very special lens indeed. Potentially better than Nikon's counterpart. For one, the built-in 1.4x teleconvertor (which can be enabled without having to remove the lens from the camera) means the versatility and flexibility of the lens is bigger. But perhaps optically it is better too (Nikon's 200-400 has one weakness: sharpness at greater distances).

All in all a very interesting lens. The price for this fine piece of technology is a bit on the steep side though; with €/$12,000 it is going to be twice the price of the Nikon counterpart (even including a 1.4x TC). Whether or not the lens is really worth it, or if it would perhaps even be better/cheaper to buy a separate Nikon body and the Nikon 200-400 instead, remains to be seen…

Fun: Hitler learns about Adobe's new Creative Cloud model

2013-05-11T12:23:00.000+02:00

Adobe's plans for the Creative Cloud (where you are locked into paying a monthly fee to be able to use the software) has created quite a stir amongst their customers. Here's what happens when Hitler learns about the model…

(please note that the video contains coarse language)

Nikon releases Capture NX 2.4.2 and View NX 2.7.5

2013-05-07T20:08:00.002+02:00

Nikon today released an update for their Capture NX2 and View NX2 applications.

Both updates address an issue with D600 raw images:

When RAW images captured with a D600 running C firmware Ver. 1.01 at an Image area setting of DX (24×16) 1.5× and any Active D-Lighting setting other than Off were opened in Capture NX 2, a bright (whitish) diagonal line was visible. This issue has been resolved.

You can find the updates at the Nikon support sites:
Capture NX 2.4.2: EU / USA
View NX 2.7.5: EU / USA

Bad move from Adobe: Future releases of Photoshop and the rest of the Creative Suite subscription only

2013-05-07T15:04:00.002+02:00

Adobe has announced the next version of their Creative Suite applications (e.g., Photoshop, Indesign, Dreamweaver, etc.) will be solely available as a cloud based subscription service with a monthly fee.

While this makes the creative suite available to new users at what seems to be quite a good price (full suite is available at $49.99/€61.49/£46.88 a month), the new scheme is much more expensive over time, especially for existing users. Sure Adobe gives you a discount as existing user of CS3 and over, but this is only valid the first year and only when you subscribe before 31 July of this year.

There's been a lot of discussion on the internet about this already and many people seem to share the same sentiment that this is an extremely bad move from Adobe… While so far I have bought every update to Photoshop available since I started using it, I don't think I will be subscribing to the Creative Cloud version of the software soon. I will sure be looking at alternatives though (hmm, Aperture is starting to look real good now).

Pricing options:

Full suite (new user): $49.99/€61.49/£46.88
Full suite (owner of a CS3 – CS5 application, first year only): $29.99/€36.89/£27.34
Full suite (owner of a CS6 application, first year only): $19.99/€24.59/£17.58
Single application (new user): $19.99/€24.59/£17.58
Single application (owner of a CS3 – CS6 application, first year only): $9.99/€12.29/£8.78

For more information on Photoshop CC and the other Creative Cloud applications, have a look at the Adobe website.

TIPA Awards 2013

2013-05-06T12:03:00.001+02:00

The Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) just announced the winners of their annual awards. Each year TIPA chooses the best products of the last twelve months in 40 photography related categories.

Here's the list of the winners in each category. More information as well as on all winning products can be found on the TIPA website.

Best Digital SLR Entry Level – Canon EOS 100D (EOS Rebel SL1)
Best Digital SLR Advanced – Nikon D7100
Best Digital SLR Expert – Canon EOS 6D
Best Professional Camera – Leica M
Best CSC Entry Level – Olympus PEN E-PL5
Best CSC Advanced – Samsung Smart Camera NX300
Best CSC Expert – Fujifilm XE-1
Best CSC Professional – Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3
Best Easy Compact Camera – Nikon COOLPIX S01
Best Expert Compact Camera – Fujifilm X20
Best Superzoom Camera – Nikon Coolpix P520
Best Rugged Compact Camera – Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FT5 (DMC-TS5)
Best Premium Camera – Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1
Best CSC Entry Level Lens – Nikon 1 Nikkor 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 ED-IF
Best CSC Expert Lens – Sony E-mount 10-18mm f/4 OSS
Best CSC Prime Lens – Fujinon XF 14mm f/2.8 R
Best Entry Level DSLR Lens – Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM
Best Expert DSLR Lens – Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM
Best Professional DSLR Lens – Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
Best Expert Photo Printer – Canon PIXMA PRO-10
Best Multifunctional Photo Printer – Epson Expression Photo XP series
Best Inkjet Photo Paper – ILFORD GALERIE Prestige Mono Silk
Best Photo TV – Samsung F8000 Smart LED 2D/3D TV
Best Photo Software – DxO Optics Pro 8
Best Mobile Photo App – Tiffen Photo fx Ultra
Best Photo Accessory – Metabones Speed Booster
Best Digital Accessory – CamRanger
Best Tripod – Vanguard ABEO PRO Kit 283CGH (with GH300T Pistol Grip Head)
Best Imaging Storing Media – Panasonic SDHC Gold, Silver and Blue series memory cards
Best Video DSLR – Canon EOS-1D C
Best Videocamera – Sony NEX-VG900
Best Mobile Imaging Device – Samsung Galaxy Camera
Best Professional Lighting System – Profoto Pro-B4 1000 Air
Best Portable Lighting System – Nissin MG8000 Extreme
Best Photo Monitor – LG IPS ColorPrime 27EA83
Best Photo Bag – Vanguard Quovio 41
Best Photo Service – WhiteWall
Best Action Cam – GoPro Hero3
Best Imaging Innovation – Samsung 45mm f1.8 (2D/3D) lens
Best Design – Giottos Silk Road YLT Series Tripods

Firmware update 1.2.1 for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III adds uncompressed HDMI output

2013-04-30T16:40:00.003+02:00

Canon just released a firmware update for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. Firmware version 1.2.1 adds, amongst others, uncompressed HDMI out, a much sought after capability which previously was only available on select Nikon cameras (e.g., the D800/D800E and D4).

Here's the complete list of updates:

Uncompressed HDMI output is now enabled.
Enables the center AF point to autofocus when the camera is used with Canon EF lens/extender combinations whose combined maximum aperture is f/8.
Improves the speed of the camera's acquisition of focus when using a Canon Speedlite's AF-assist beam.
Fixes a phenomenon in which the LCD monitor may freeze and display Err 70 or Err 80 when a still photo is taken during Live View or in movie shooting mode.
Fixes a phenomenon that may occur when the continuous shooting priority setting is enabled for multiple exposures, such that, after the sixth image is taken, there is a slight pause before the remainder of the sequence is completed.
Fixes a phenomenon in which the viewfinder display shows incorrect information during AEB shooting.
Communication with the WFT-E7 Wireless File Transmitter has been improved.
When images have been successfully transferred with the WFT-E7 Wireless File Transmitter through the FTP protocol, an "O" will be displayed. When images have not been successfully transferred with the WFT-E7 Wireless File Transmitter through the FTP protocol, an "X" will be displayed.
Fixes a phenomenon in which the camera may not function properly when an Eye-Fi card is used.
Fixes a phenomenon in which the focal length value listed in the Exif information is not displayed correctly for images shot with the EF 24-70mm F4L IS USM lens.
Fixes a phenomenon in which the lens firmware cannot be updated properly.
Corrects errors in the Arabic language menu.
Fixes a phenomenon in which the camera changes the AF microadjustment value to -8.
Fixes a phenomenon in which the on-screen guidance cannot be fully displayed when setting the maximum limit value for the "Setting the ISO Speed Range for Auto ISO" option.

You can download the update from the Canon website.

Record breaking: new Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM lens

2013-04-18T10:34:00.001+02:00

Sigma just announced the world's first f/1.8 constant aperture zoom lens, the “Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art.”

This extreme wide aperture, standard zoom-lens for DSLR camera's with APS-C (1.5~1.6x crop) sized sensors. On such cameras it has a 35mm format focal range equivalent of 27mm – 52.5mm (depth of field equivalent at f/1.8: ±f/2.7).

The fact that Sigma placed this lens in their “Art” lens series is an indication of the high quality we may expect of the lens. As of now, no exact release date nor indication of price (likely > $/€ 1000) has been given by Sigma.

For more information, see the Sigma product page.

Lightroom 5 Public Beta available

2013-04-17T11:30:00.000+02:00

Just getting used to Lightroom 4? Well, the folks of Adobe aren't letting you rest; they have been working on its successor already…

Lots of cool new features for the upcoming version of Lightroom (and most probably Adobe Camera Raw as well). To see for yourself what this new version of Lightroom has to offer, download the free beta from the Adobe labs website.

Some of the new Features in Lightroom 5 Beta

Advanced Healing Brush – Easily remove objects and fix defects—even those with irregular shapes such as threads or lint—with a single brush stroke. Take precise control over what's being removed as you make unwanted objects just disappear.
Upright – Straighten tilted images with a single click. Upright analyzes images and detects skewed horizontal or vertical lines. You choose one of four correction methods, and Upright can even straighten images where the horizon is hidden.
Radial Gradient – Lead your viewer's eye through your images with more flexibility and control. The radial gradient tool lets you create off-center vignette effects, or multiple vignette areas within a single image.
Offline editing with Smart Previews – Easily work with images without bringing your entire library with you. Just generate smaller stand-in files called Smart Previews. Make adjustments or metadata additions to Smart Previews and your changes will be automatically applied to the full-size originals later.
Video slideshow sharing – Easily share your work in elegant video slideshows. Combine still images, video clips, and music in creative HD videos that can be viewed on almost any computer or device.
Improved photo book creation – Create beautiful photo books from your images. Lightroom includes a variety of easy-to-use book templates, and now you can edit them to create a customized look. Upload your book for printing with just a few clicks.

There is already a plethora of videos and other information on the new Lightroom available on the internet, e.g., at the PhotoshopCAFE Lightroom 5 training site.

Firmware update v1.1.3 for the Canon EOS 6D

2013-04-09T11:03:00.000+02:00

Canon just released a firmware update for its EOS 6D camera.

The v1.1.3 update addresses only one issue:

Corrects the phenomenon where date/time settings reset.

You can download the update from the Canon website.

Adobe releases Lightroom 4.4, Camera Raw 7.4, and DNG converter 7.4 updates

2013-04-03T20:31:00.000+02:00

Adobe has just released an update to its raw converters. The update provides support for additional cameras and lens profiles as well as fixes to bugs present in previous versions of the converter.

If you're not using the latest version of the software (i.e., Lightroom 4, Photoshop CS6, Photoshop Elements 11), you can make use of the DNG Converter 7.4 application to get raw file support for the newly added cameras.

To update:

Lightroom 4.4 – Please use the update mechanism of the software
Photoshop CS6 – Please use the update mechanism of the software
Photoshop Elements 11 – Please use the update mechanism of the software
DNG converter 7.4: Download Mac / Windows

Below is the complete list of changes (from Adobe).

Changes to Existing Camera Support – Fujifilm

Camera Raw 7.4 includes a correction to the demosaic algorithms for Fujifilm cameras with the X-Trans sensor. This specifically impacts the following cameras:

Fujifilm X-Pro1 (*)
Fujifilm X-E1 (*)
Fujifilm X100S
Fujifilm X20

(*) Based on user feedback, the default sharpening amount applied to Fujifilm X-Pro1 and Fujifilm X-E1 raw files has been increased between Camera Raw 7.4 Release Candidate and the final Camera Raw 7.4 release.

Camera Raw 7.4 includes a correction to the demosaic algorithms for Fujifilm cameras with the EXR sensor. This correction applies only to raw images captured using the “EXR HR” mode with the following cameras:

Fujifilm X10
Fujifilm XF1
Fujifilm X-S1
Fujifilm S200EXR
Fujifilm HS20EXR
Fujifilm HS30EXR
Fujifilm F550EXR
Fujifilm F600EXR
Fujifilm F770EXR
Fujifilm F800EXR

Fix default aspect ratio support for Fujifilm X-E1 raw files.

Changes to Existing Camera Support – Nikon

Adjusted Nikon default white balance for the following camera models:

NikonD2X
NikonD2Xs
NikonD2Hs
NikonD200
NikonD40
NikonD50
NikonD80

Bugs Corrected in Camera Raw 7.4

The following bugs that were part the Camera Raw 7 releases have been corrected. The team appreciates the very detailed feedback the community has provided on Camera Raw 7 and we’re excited to correct a number of issues experienced by our customers. These issues have been FIXED:

Improve interactive performance at intermediate zoom levels (e.g., 33% and 66%).
Remove strong color cast when converting images to grayscale.
Rendering of floating-point HDR images with unexpected embedded ICC profiles (non-linear gamma).
Ensure that local adjustments are synced properly when copying & pasting settings in Bridge.
Prevent point curve adjustments from disappearing off the top and bottom when using the arrow keys to adjust curve points.
Square tile artifacts while painting with local adjustment brush.
Grid overlay artifacts in Lens Correction panel when adjusting crop rectangle.
Shortcut (control-click, right-click) to adjust local adjustment brush size and feather size.
Local adjustment redrawing incorrectly after selecting a pin.
Redraw error with the noise reduction option-drag visualization.
Redraw error when local adjustment mouse over rollover mask, etc.
Crash when adding a custom input/output values in per-channel RGB point curves.
Color casts when using the Camera Calibration saturation sliders.
Line artifacts when processing floating-point images with a rotated crop.
Crash when using the local adjustment brush. This only occurs on images with a large number of local adjustments and on a system with limited RAM.

New Camera Support in Camera Raw 7.4

Canon EOS 1D C
Canon EOS 100D (Digital Rebel SL1 / EOS Kiss Digital X7)
Canon EOS 700D (Digital Rebel T5i / EOS Kiss Digital X7i)
Casio Exilim EX-ZR700
Casio Exilim EX-ZR710
Casio Exilim EX-ZR750
Fujifilm FinePix F900EXR
Fujifilm FinePix HS50EXR
Fujifilm FinePix SL1000
Fujifilm X100s
Fujifilm X20
Hasselblad H5D-40
Hasselblad H5D-50
Hasselblad Lunar
LEICA M (Typ 240)
Nikon 1 J3
Nikon 1 S1
Nikon D7100
Nikon Coolpix A
Nikon Coolpix P330 (**)
Olympus XZ-10
Pentax MX-1
Samsung NX300
Sony Alpha NEX-3N
Sony Alpha SLT-A58

** denotes preliminary support

New Lens Profile Support in Camera Raw 7.4

Lens Name	Lens Mount
Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM	Canon
Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM	Canon
SIGMA 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013	Canon
SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012	Canon
Nikon 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8	Nikon
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR	Nikon
SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012	Nikon
TAMRON SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD A009N	Nikon
TAMRON SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD	Nikon
F004N	Nikon
SIGMA 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM	Pentax
SIGMA 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013	Sigma
SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012	Sigma
SIGMA 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM	Sony
SIGMA APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM	Sony
Sony E 10-18mm F4 OSS	Sony
TAMRON SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di USD A007S	Sony

Firmware updates for Nikon D3200, D7000, D600, D800(E), D3(S, X), and D4

2013-04-02T09:53:00.000+02:00

Nikon today released a firmware update for 9 of its cameras. The D3200, D7000, D600, D800, D800E, D3, D3S, D3X, and the D4 all got an update. Changes for each update are below.

D3200 Firmware Update C 1.01

The following functions have been changed with shooting using the Wireless Mobile Utility.

When the camera's shooting mode is set to Auto or Auto (flash off), it now operates in Auto or Auto (flash off) mode. Prior to this upgrade, the camera functioned in [P] (Programmed auto) exposure mode.
Live view can now be initiated even when the camera is set to "Auto" or "No flash" in GUIDE mode.

In some very rare cases when certain memory cards were used, movie recording would stop, even when the time remaining display indicated remaining recording time. This issue has been resolved.
In some very rare cases, colours would change with shooting when white balance was set to a specific colour temperature, as with Preset manual or Incandescent. This issue has been resolved.

Download link (EU)

D7000 Firmware Update A 1.03, B 1.04

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.

Download link (EU)

D600 Firmware Update C 1.01

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.
Subject tracking performance in AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus) autofocus mode with framing using the viewfinder has been improved.
Frame output size has been changed from 95% to 100% when movie live view display is changed to "Information off" and an HDMI-compatible device is connected.
An issue that caused the right edges of images to be somewhat white when captured at an Image area setting of DX (24x16) 1.5x with Active D-Lighting set to Off has been resolved.
When the camera's shutter-release button was pressed repeatedly for uninterrupted shooting with the "Record to:" option in Camera Control Pro 2's Storage tab set to "PC+CARD", the camera would stop responding with displaying "Err" in its control panel. This issue has been resolved.
In some very rare cases, colours would change with shooting when white balance was set to a specific colour temperature, as with Preset manual or Choose color temp. This issue has been resolved.

Download link (EU)

D800 Firmware Update A 1.01, B 1.02

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.
Subject tracking performance in AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus) autofocus mode with framing using the viewfinder has been improved.
Gamut for Adobe RGB images displayed in the camera's monitor has been changed. This enables more vivid display of images.
With live view photography in [M] (Manual) exposure mode, exposure preview was always on. This issue has been resolved.
In some very rare cases when certain memory cards were used, movie recording would stop, even when the time remaining display indicated remaining recording time. This issue has been resolved.
With shooting at an image quality setting of TIFF (RGB) and an image size setting of Small, the right edge of images contained a purple line. This issue has been resolved.
In some rare cases, images recorded in JPEG format could not be opened by some software applications. This issue has been resolved.
In some very rare cases, colours would change with shooting when white balance was set to a specific colour temperature, as with Preset manual or Choose color temp. This issue has been resolved.

Download link (EU)

D800E Firmware Update A 1.01, B 1.02

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.
Subject tracking performance in AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus) autofocus mode with framing using the viewfinder has been improved.
Gamut for Adobe RGB images displayed in the camera's monitor has been changed. This enables more vivid display of images.
With live view photography in [M] (Manual) exposure mode, exposure preview was always on. This issue has been resolved.
In some very rare cases when certain memory cards were used, movie recording would stop, even when the time remaining display indicated remaining recording time. This issue has been resolved.
With shooting at an image quality setting of TIFF (RGB) and an image size setting of Small, the right edge of images contained a purple line. This issue has been resolved.
In some rare cases, images recorded in JPEG format could not be opened by some software applications. This issue has been resolved.
In some very rare cases, colours would change with shooting when white balance was set to a specific colour temperature, as with Preset manual or Choose color temp. This issue has been resolved.

Download link (EU)

D3 Firmware Update A 2.03, B 2.03

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.

Download link (EU)

D3S Firmware Update A 1.02, B 1.02

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.

Download link (EU)

D3X Firmware Update A 1.01, B 1.02

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.

Download link (EU)

D4 Firmware Update A 1.05, B 1.03

Support for the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR has been added.
Auto white balance performance has been improved.
Images are sharper and appear more three dimensional.
With live view photography in [M] (Manual) exposure mode, exposure preview was always on. This issue has been resolved.
With shooting at an image quality setting of TIFF (RGB) and an image size setting of Small, the right edge of images contained a purple line. This issue has been resolved.
In some rare cases, images recorded in JPEG format could not be opened by some software applications. This issue has been resolved.
In some very rare cases, colours would change with shooting when white balance was set to a specific colour temperature, as with Preset manual or Choose color temp. This issue has been resolved.

Download link (EU)

Complete Nik software collection now only $149

2013-03-26T12:28:00.000+01:00

Good news for everyone performing their own post processing: the complete Nik Software collection is now only $149!

The collection consists of all 6 highly rewarded plugins for Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Photoshop Elements, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, and Apple Aperture. Available for both Windows and Mac. View the complete collection at the Nik Software website.

Nik Software Collection

Color Efex Pro 4 – Awesome set of filters for colour correction, retouching, and other creative effects.
Silver Efex Pro 2 – If you're serious about B&W, this is the filter set to consider.
HDR Efex Pro 2 – One of the best, if not the best, HDR tools available, I really love it!
Sharpener Pro 3 – Covers every step in the image sharpening workflow; from Capture Sharpening to Creative Sharpening to Output Sharpening.
Dfine 2 – Powerful noise reduction.
Viveza 2 – Creating selections and masks the easy way.

Compatibility

The Nik Software collection is compatible with the following systems:
Mac

Mac® OS 10.6.8 through 10.8
Intel processor
2GB of RAM (4 GB or more recommended)
Adobe Photoshop CS4 (CS5 for HDR Efex Pro 2) through CS6
Adobe Photoshop Elements 9 through 11
(apart from HDR Efex Pro 2, which is not compatible with Photoshop Elements)
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 through 4
Apple® Aperture® 3.1 or later
32-bit and 64-bit Compatible (HDR Efex Pro 2 is only compatible with 64-bit systems)
For GPU acceleration, an Open GL 3.0 compatible graphics card such as the cards listed below. If no compatible card is available, GPU acceleration will be disabled and the CPU will be used.

Windows

Windows Vista®, Windows 7, Windows 8
AMD® or Intel® processor
2GB of RAM (4 GB or more recommended)
Adobe Photoshop CS4 through CS6
Adobe Photoshop Elements 9 through 11
(apart from HDR Efex Pro 2, which is not compatible with Photoshop Elements)
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 through 4
32-bit and 64-bit Compatible
For GPU acceleration, an Open GL 3.0 compatible graphics card such as the cards listed below. If no compatible card is available, GPU acceleration will be disabled and the CPU will be used.

GPU Compatibility

NVIDIA GeForce 8 Series, GeForce 9 Series, GeForce 100 Series, GeForce 200 Series, GeForce 300 Series, GeForce 400 Series, GeForce 500 Series,
ATI Radeon HD2000 Series, Radeon HD3000 Series, Radeon HD4000 Series, Radeon HD5000 Series, Radeon HD6000 Series,
Intel HD Graphics 3000

The beauty of old and derelict industrial sites

2013-03-23T11:11:00.000+01:00

One of the workshops that's becoming a favourite of our guests – and still is one of ours, too – is the Industrial Heritage workshop. And there's good reason for that, even though it came into being almost by accident.

A couple of years ago, we visited the German Ruhrgebiet. This used to be a vast area with heavy industry, until the 1980's/1990's. After that, most of the chemical plants, factories, steel mills, coking facilities and mines were gradually closed down. We went to see if any of these were suitable to photograph.

What we were looking for mostly was not so much one of the perfectly groomed museums that the Germans have turned some of the sites into. No, we were looking for an unpolished site that had been left after it's closing much as it had been – as if time had stood still, as it were.

We were lucky. When we turned up at a rather small site carrying our photo gear, the lady at the reception reacted enthusiastically, asking if we were there for the photo tour? Since we aren't big fans of guided tours, we told her no. But with a little smile she announced that the “tour” would take us places the public wasn't allowed to enter: unpolished and rough. We were sold.

It turned out to be amazing. Wandering through near-dark machine rooms, flooded cellars, and climbing dusty conveyor belts, we had far too little time to take it all in. Our guide Klaus Peter turned out to be invaluable. Not only had he been working for years at this plant, so he knew every corner – he was an avid photographer himself, and very sympathetic to the fact that we really needed half an hour in a dimly lit battery to set up the perfect shot.

That's exactly what still makes this trip unique. Not only can we get to places the public can't, ensuring unique shots – the tour is a little bit different every time. This is partly caused by nature taking over the site. The railway tracks have gotten covered in weeds over the years, dragonflies have colonised the water basin, ferns have started growing in the batteries; it all gives the place a unique, very “sleeping beauty” atmosphere. One early cold morning we even spotted a herd of roe deer between the batteries. But also, each time we do the tour, another area of the site has been cleared, making it possible for us to explore new areas and buildings. So each tour in itself we do here is unique!

If you would like to join us on this unique tour, better hurry – there are just a few places left in our April workshop. If you like low light and atmospheric, “rough” images, or would like to practice High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography, this is just the trip for you. You'll need sturdy shoes and need to be ready to get down and dirty, but we can pretty much promise you great and unique shots!

New Canon 700D and 100D cameras announced

2013-03-21T09:32:00.000+01:00

Canon just announced two new cameras: the 700D which is an update to the (quite recently released) 650D and an all new very slim and lightweight (world lightest?) 100D. Both cameras should be available in April.

Canon EOS 700D/Rebel T5i

18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
DIGIC 5 Image Processor
3.0″ Vari-angle touch screen LCD
ISO 100-12800, expandable to 25600
Full HD 1080 video with continuous AF
STM lens support for quiet AF during video shooting
5 frames per second continuous shooting rate
9 point AF system (all cross-type!)

The suggested retail price of the 700D body is €699/$750. You can also get the 700D as a kit with the (also new) Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens (€249, lens only).

Canon EOS 100D/Rebel SL1

18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
DIGIC 5 Image Processor
3.0″ Clear View II touch screen LCD
ISO 100-12800, expandable to 25600
Full HD 1080 Video with continuous AF
4 frames per second continuous shooting rate
9 point AF system (all cross-type!)
Very lightweight (±400gr, less than 0.9lb!)

The suggested retail price of the 100D body is €649/$650, again also available as a kit with the new EF-S 18-55/3.5-5.6 lens (just as the 700D).

More Nikon software&firmware updates: Capture NX2.4.1, Camera Control Pro 2.14.0, and wireless communication updates

2013-03-13T21:10:00.000+01:00

Nikon released updates to more of its software & firmware today.

Capture NX 2.4.1 (full version) – download
Camera Control Pro 2.14.0 (updater) – download
Wireless Transmitter Utility 1.4.0 (full version) – download
Communication Unit UT-1 Firmware Update 1.1 – download
Wireless Remote Controller WR-R10 Firmware Update 2.00 – download

As always you can download the updates from the Nikon support sites. (Links above are from the EU support site)

The fixes/enhancements for each software and firmware are listed below.

Capture NX 2.4.1 (full version)

Modifications that apply to both the Windows and Macintosh versions

Support for RAW images captured with the D7100 has been added.
An Auto2 option has been added to New WB under White Balance in the Camera Settings portion of the Develop section in the Edit List palette. This option is available with RAW images taken with the D7000. However, colors will differ slightly from those achieved with the camera's White Balance set to AUTO2 Keep warm lighting colors.

Issues resolved with both the Windows and Macintosh versions

When some colour profiles were used as the monitor (or display) profile, colours were extremely blue.
When the Selection Control Point was dragged, an error was sometimes displayed and Capture NX 2 would quit unexpectedly.

Additional issued resolved with the Windows version

When some colour profiles were used and the Soft Proof feature enabled, colours were sometimes strange or an error may have been displayed. When attempting to print images where this issue occurred, Capture NX 2 sometimes quit unexpectedly.
When editing images, a "The drive that the Temporary Folder is on is nearly full." error message was sometimes displayed.
When performing batch processing on a large number of images, blue lines sometimes appeared in images.

Additional issued resolved with the Macintosh version

When some color profiles were used and the Soft Proof feature enabled, colors were sometimes strange.
When a large number of color profiles were registered with the computer, Capture NX 2 was sometimes unable to open images.

Camera Control Pro 2.14.0 (updater)

Modifications that apply to both the Windows and Macintosh versions

Support for the D7100 has been added.
Preset white balance can now be measured with live view shooting using the D7100.
A Synchronize camera date and time to PC option has been added to the Camera menu's Set Date and Time... item.

Additional modifications to the Windows version

A Synchronize camera date and time to computer when camera is connected option has been added to the General tab, accessible from the Tools menu>Options....

Additional modifications to the Macintosh version

A Synchronize camera date and time to computer when camera is connected option has been added to the General tab, accessible from the Camera Control Pro 2 menu>Preference.....

Wireless Transmitter Utility 1.4.0 (full version)

Modifications that apply to both the Windows and Macintosh versions

Support for the D7100 and Communication Unit UT-1 combination has been added.
WT-4 Thumbnail select mode and Print mode are no longer supported.

Additional modifications to the Windows version

Compatibility with 64- and 32-bit versions of Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro, and Microsoft Windows 8 Enterprise has been added. We have confirmed that there are no problems with operation of Ver. 1.3.1.
We have confirmed that there are no problems with operation in Windows 8 desktop mode. Touch screen operations are not supported.

Communication Unit UT-1 Firmware Update 1.1

Support for the D7100 has been added.

Wireless Remote Controller WR-R10 Firmware Update 2.00

Camera settings can now be viewed and changed using the WR-1 when the WR-1 is used as a transmitter and the WR-R10 is connected to a D7100 for use as a receiver.
Support for the Release Hold Time function built into the WR-1 is now supported when the WR-1 is used as a transmitter and the WR-R10 is used as a receiver.
To make remote operation using the WR-1 function that allows for division of multiple units into groups (A, B, C, D) more convenient, the group specified with the WR-R10 is now fixed at group A rather than all groups (A, B, C, D) with transmission. With reception, the group is fixed at group A with firmware versions 1.00 and 2.00.

Nikon releases ViewNX 2.7.4

2013-03-12T20:29:00.004+01:00

Nikon has released an update to their free image browser/editor ViewNX2.

The 2.7.4. update contains below fixes and enhancements.

Modifications that apply to both the Windows and Macintosh versions

Support for the D7100 has been added.
The correct lens name is now be displayed for still images captured with a digital-SLR camera and the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR. However, in the following cases, the lens name displayed will indicate that it is a G-type lens in Metadata on the Edit palette.

Images captured with a Nikon 1-series camera and the FT-1 mount adapter
Movies recorded using a digital-SLR camera

Additional modifications to the Macintosh version

An issue that prevented images saved in JPEG format with Capture NX 2 Ver. 2.3.0 or 2.3.1 from opening in ViewNX 2 has been resolved.

The new version can be downloaded from the Nikon support site: EU / USA

The new Nikkor 80-400 f/4.5-5.6 VR lens

2013-03-06T10:40:00.000+01:00

Nikon has upgraded the first (!) VR (aka. Vibration Reduction, Image Stabilisation, Optical Stabilisation) lens.

While with proper technique and usage, the old Nikkor 80-400 f/4.5-5.6 lens was able to deliver awesome results, the lens had its faults. Probably the biggest being that it was quite slow to focus. When compared to today's standards and the use of high pixel density cameras, the optics where in dire need of an upgrade too.

People therefore had been “demanding” for an upgrade of this lens for quite a few years now.

Well, the wait is finally over and Nikon now has an updated version of this lens. From the specs and especially the lens quality tests I've seen so far, it looks as if Nikon have outdone themselves. Not only does the lens have all the new features one expects – AF-S, Nano coating, VRII – the lens's optics are really astonishing too, perhaps they're even better than that of the 70-200 f/2.8 VRII!

As more and more Nikon cameras are able to focus at f/8, Nikon also enabled the use of Tele-Converters on this lens, further extending the flexibility. Really nice!

The only disappointing thing, perhaps, about this lens is probably its price, at $2,699.95/€2699 it is more than twice as expensive as the old one. Probably well worth it, but still…

Specifications

Mount Type	Nikon F-Bayonet
Focal Length Range	80-400mm
Zoom Ratio	5x
Maximum Aperture	f/4.5-5.6
Minimum Aperture	f/32-40
Format	FX/35mm
Maximum Angle of View (DX-format)	20°
Minimum Angle of View (DX-format)	4°
Maximum Angle of View (FX-format)	30°10'
Minimum Angle of View (FX-format)	6°10'
Maximum Reproduction Ratio	0.2x
Lens Elements	20
Lens Groups	12
Compatible Format(s)	FX DX FX in DX Crop Mode 35mm Film
VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization	Yes
Diaphragm Blades	9
Distance Information	Yes
Nano Crystal Coat	Yes
ED Glass Elements	4
Super ED Glass Elements	1
Super Integrated Coating	Yes
Autofocus	Yes
AF-S (Silent Wave Motor)	Yes
Internal Focusing	Yes
Minimum Focus Distance	5.74 ft. (1.75m)
Focus Mode	Auto, Manual, Auto/Manual
G-type	Yes
Filter Size	77mm
Accepts Filter Type	Screw-on
Dimensions	± 3.8 x 8.0 in. (Diameter x Length) ± 95.5 x 203mm (Diameter x Length) Based on CIPA Guidelines
Weight	± 56 oz. (1570g) including tripod collar Based on CIPA Guidelines
Supplied Accessories	HB-65 Lens Hood LF-4 Rear Lens Cap LC-77 Snap-On Front Lens Cap CL-M2 Ballistic Nylon Lens Case

Canon service advisory for EOS-1D X and 5D Mark III cameras

2013-02-21T14:44:00.001+01:00

Canon recently put out a service advisory for their EOS-1D X and 5D Mark III DSLR cameras. I have copied the advisory as can be found on the Canon USA website below.

Affected Products

EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera
EOS-1D X Digital SLR Camera

Details

Depending upon the shooting conditions, it may take slightly longer for the EOS 5D Mark III and EOS-1D X digital SLR cameras to acquire focus when using the Speedlite's AF Assist Beam, compared with that of the EOS 5D Mark II and EOS-1D Mark IV digital SLR cameras using the Speedlite's AF Assist Beam.

We are developing a solution to enhance the focusing feature for the EOS 5D Mark III and EOS-1D X and plan to release a firmware update based on following estimated schedule:

EOS 5D Mark III: (estimated) Late April, 2013
EOS-1D X: (estimated) Late May, 2013

Support

This information is for residents of the United States and Puerto Rico only. If you do not reside in the USA or Puerto Rico, please contact the Canon Customer Support Center in your region.

If you have not already done so, please register your Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera or your Canon EOS-1D X. Digital SLR Camera. By registering, we will be able to notify you via email about future service upgrades.

Thank you,
Customer Support Operations
Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Finally: The D7100, a new DX Camera from Nikon

2013-02-21T08:33:00.001+01:00

It was long overdue, but now it's finally there: a new Nikon DX camera. And boy, from the specs, it sure does not disappoint!

While the camera name might suggest otherwise, this new camera definitely is an upgrade to both the D7000 and the D300/D300s cameras (the former top Nikon DX cameras).

The D7100 has a 24.1 Mega Pixel APS-C (1.5x crop) sized sensor. Because the resolution of the sensor is so high (even higher than on the D800!), Nikon has decided to not add an Anti Alias Filter (just as with the D800E). In my opinion a good move as at these resolutions (together with the resolving power of most lenses), moiré isn't likely to be going to be any problem at all. By giving the camera the full 51 AF points as available in the pro bodies, Nikon shows us that they are serious about this camera and also mean it to be used by the semi-pro who wants to shoot with a DX body. It does lack some features for the pro too though, such as a dedicated AF-On button and a buffer that is big enough to hold more than just one second of frames. Is there still room for a D400 then?

The new camera is (naturally) capable of capturing full HD (1080p) video and can take up to 7 frames per second. Truly nice specs. Nikon also added a new type of LCD to the back of the camera, instead of using “just” using Red Green and Blue dots per image pixel, this new LCD uses an additional White dot for even better viewing.

The D7100 body comes at a suggested retail price of $1199/€1179, also available with a kit lens. The D7100 is due to ship from 21 March, so if you want one, make your pre-order soon!

Full specs (from the Nikon website):

Type	Single-lens reflex digital camera
Lens mount	Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts)
Effective angle of view	Nikon DX format; focal length in 35 mm 135 format equivalent to approx. 1.5x that of lenses with FX format angle of view
Effective pixels	24.1 million
Image sensor	23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS sensor
Total pixels	24.69 million
Dust-reduction System	Image sensor cleaning, Image Dust Off reference data (optional Capture NX 2 software required)
Image size (pixels)	DX (24 x 16) image area 6000 x 4000 (L), 4494 x 3000 (M), 2992 x 2000 (S) 1.3x (18 x 12) image area 4800 x 3200 (L), 3600 x 2400 (M), 2400 x 1600 (S) Photographs with image area of DX (24 x 16) taken in movie live view 6000 x 3368 (L), 4494 x 2528 (M), 2992 x 1860 (S) Photographs with image area of 1.3x (18 x 12) taken in movie live view 4800 x 2696 (L), 3600 x 2024 (M), 2400 x 1344 (S)
File format	NEF (RAW): 12 or 14 bit, lossless compressed or compressed JPEG: JPEG-Baseline compliant with fine (approx. 1 : 4), normal (approx. 1 : 8), or basic (approx. 1 : 16) compression (Size priority); Optimal quality compression available NEF (RAW) + JPEG: Single photograph recorded in both NEF (RAW) and JPEG formats
Picture Control System	Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, Landscape; selected Picture Control can be modified; storage for custom Picture Controls
Media	SD (Secure Digital) and UHS-I compliant SDHC and SDXC memory cards
Double slot	Slot 2 can be used for overflow or backup storage or for separate storage of copies created using NEF+JPEG; pictures can be copied between cards.
File system	DCF (Design Rule for Camera File System) 2.0, DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras) 2.3, PictBridge
Viewfinder	Eye-level pentaprism single-lens reflex viewfinder
Frame coverage	Approx. 100% horizontal and 100% vertical
Magnification	Approx. 0.94x (50 mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1.0 m-1)
Eyepoint	19.5 mm (-1.0 m-1; from center surface of viewfinder eyepiece lens)
Diopter adjustment	-2 - +1 m-1
Focusing screen	Type B BriteView Clear Matte Mark II screen with AF area brackets (framing grid can be displayed)
Reflex mirror	Quick return
Depth-of-field preview	Pressing depth-of-field preview button stops lens aperture down to value selected by user (A and M modes) or by camera (other modes)
Lens aperture	Instant return, electronically controlled
Compatible lenses	Compatible with AF NIKKOR lenses, including type G and D lenses (some restrictions apply to PC lenses) and DX lenses, AI-P NIKKOR lenses, and non-CPU AI lenses (A and M modes only). IX NIKKOR lenses, lenses for the F3AF, and non-AI lenses can not be used. The electronic rangefinder can be used with lenses that have a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster (the electronic rangefinder supports the center 1 focus point with lenses that have a maximum aperture of f/8 or faster).
Shutter Type	Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter
Speed	1/8000 - 30 s in steps of 1/3 or 1/2 EV, bulb, time, X250
Flash sync speed	X=1/250 s; synchronizes with shutter at 1/320 s or slower (flash range drops at speeds between 1/250 and 1/320 s)
Release mode	Single frame (S), continuous low speed (CL), continuous high speed (CH), quiet shutter-release (Q), self-timer, mirror up (MUP); interval timer photography supported
Approximate frame advance rate	JPEG and 12-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with DX (24 x 16) selected for Image area CL: 1 - 6 fps, CH: 6 fps JPEG and 12-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with 1.3x (18 x 12) selected for Image area CL: 1 - 6 fps, CH: 7 fps 14-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with DX (24 x 16) selected for Image area CL: 1 - 5 fps, CH: 5 fps 14-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with 1.3x (18 x 12) selected for Image area CL: 1 - 6 fps, CH: 6 fps
Self-timer	2 s, 5 s, 10 s, 20 s; 1 - 9 exposures at intervals of 0.5, 1, 2, or 3 s
Remote control modes (ML-L3)	Delayed remote, quick-response remote, remote mirror-up
Metering mode	TTL exposure metering using 2016-pixel RGB sensor
Metering method	Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses); color matrix metering available with non-CPU lenses if user provides lens data Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 8 mm circle in center of frame. Diameter of circle can be changed to 6, 10, or 13 mm, or weighting can be based on average of entire frame (non-CPU lenses use 8-mm circle) Spot: Meters 3.5 mm circle (about 2.5% of frame) centered on selected focus point (on center focus point when non-CPU lens is used)
Range (ISO 100, f/1.4 lens, 20 °C/68 °F)	Matrix or center-weighted metering: 0 - 20 EV Spot metering: 2 - 20 EV
Exposure meter coupling	Combined CPU and AI
Mode	Auto modes (auto; auto (flash off)); programmed auto with flexible program (P); shutter-priority auto (S); aperture-priority auto (A); manual (M); scene modes (portrait; landscape; child; sports; close up; night portrait; night landscape; party/indoor; beach/snow; sunset; dusk/dawn; pet portrait; candlelight; blossom; autumn colors; food); special effects modes (night vision; color sketch; miniature effect; selective color; silhouette; high key; low key); U1 (user settings 1); U2 (user settings 2)
Exposure compensation	Can be adjusted by -5 - +5 EV in increments of 1/3 or 1/2 EV in P, S, A, and M modes
Exposure bracketing	2 - 5 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1, 2, or 3 EV
Flash bracketing	2 - 5 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1, 2, or 3 EV
White balance bracketing	2 - 5 frames in steps of 1, 2, or 3
ADL bracketing	2 frames using selected value for one frame or 3 frames using preset values for all frames
Exposure lock	Luminosity locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button
ISO sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index)	ISO 100 - 6400 in steps of 1/3 or 1/2 EV. Can also be set to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, or 2 EV (ISO 25600 equivalent) above ISO 6400; auto ISO sensitivity control available
Active D-Lighting	Auto, Extra high, High, Normal, Low, Off
Autofocus	Nikon Advanced Multi-CAM 3500DX autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection, fine-tuning, 51 focus points (including 9 cross-type sensors; the center 1 focus point is available at apertures slower than f/5.6 and faster than f/8 or at f/8), and AF-assist illuminator (range approx. 0.5 - 3m/1 ft 8 in. - 9 ft 10 in.)
Detection range	-2 - +19 EV (ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F)
Lens servo	Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); continuous-servo AF (AF-C); auto AF-S/AF-C selection (AF-A); predictive focus tracking activated automatically according to subject status Manual focus (M): Electronic rangefinder can be used
Focus point	Can be selected from 51 or 11 focus points
AF-area mode	Single-point AF; 9-, 21-, or 51-point dynamic-area AF, 3D-tracking, auto-area AF
Focus lock	Focus can be locked by pressing shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing AE-L/AF-L button
Built-in flash	Auto, portrait, child, close up, night portrait, party/indoor, pet portrait, color sketch: Auto flash with auto pop-up P, S, A, M, food: Manual pop-up with button release
Guide Number	Approx. 12/39, 12/39 with manual flash (m/ft, ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F)
Flash control	TTL: i-TTL flash control using 2016-pixel RGB sensor is available with built-in flash and SB-910, SB-900, SB-800, SB-700, SB-600, or SB-400; i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR is used with matrix and center-weighted metering, standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR with spot metering
Flash mode	Auto, auto with red-eye reduction, auto slow sync, auto slow sync with red-eye reduction, fill-flash, red-eye reduction, slow sync, slow sync with red-eye reduction, rear-curtain with slow sync, rear-curtain sync, off; Auto FP High-Speed Sync supported
Flash compensation	-3 - +1 EV in increments of 1/3 or 1/2 EV
Flash-ready indicator	Lights when built-in flash or optional flash unit is fully charged; flashes after flash is fired at full output
Accessory shoe	ISO 518 hot-shoe with sync and data contacts and safety lock
Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)	Advanced Wireless Lighting supported with: - SB-910, SB-900, SB-800, or SB-700 as a master flash and SB-600 or SB-R200 as remotes, or SU-800 as commander - Built-in flash can serve as master flash in commander mode Auto FP High-Speed Sync and modeling illumination supported with all CLS-compatible flash units except SB-400; Flash Color Information Communication and FV lock supported with all CLS-compatible flash units
Sync terminal	AS-15 sync terminal adapter (available separately)
White balance	Auto (2 types), incandescent, fluorescent (7 types), direct sunlight, flash, cloudy, shade, preset manual (up to 6 values can be stored, spot white balance measurement available during live view), choose color temperature (2500 K - 10000 K), all with fine-tuning
Modes	Live view photography (still images), movie live view (movies)
Lens servo	Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); full-time-servo AF (AF-F) Manual focus (M)
AF-area mode	Face-priority AF, wide-area AF, normal-area AF, subject-tracking AF
Autofocus	Contrast-detect AF anywhere in frame (camera selects focus point automatically when face-priority AF or subject-tracking AF is selected)
Movie Metering	TTL exposure metering using main image sensor
Metering method	Matrix
Frame size (pixels) and frame rate	1920 x 1080; 60i (59.94 fields/s)/ 50i (50 fields/s) * 1920 x 1080; 30 p (progressive), 25p, 24p 1280 x 720; 60p, 50p Actual frame rates for 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p are 59.94, 50, 29.97, 25,xand 23.976 fps respectively; options support both high and normalximage quality * Available only when 1.3x (18 x 12) is selected for Image area. Sensor output is about 60 or 50 fps.
File format	MOV
Video compression	H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding
Audio recording format	Linear PCM
Audio recording device	Built-in or external stereo microphone; sensitivity adjustable
Monitor	8-cm/3.2-in., approx. 1229 k-dot (VGA; 640 x 4 x 480 = 1,228,800 dots), TFT monitor with approx. 170° viewing angle, approx. 100% frame coverage, and brightness adjustment
Playback	Full-frame and thumbnail (4, 9, or 72 images or calendar) playback with playback zoom, movie playback, photo and/or movie slide shows, histogram display, highlights, photo information, GPS data display, and auto image rotation
USB	Hi-Speed USB
HDMI output	HDMI mini connector (Type C)
Accessory terminal	Wireless remote controller: WR-1 and WR-R10 (available separately) Remote cord: MC-DC2 (available separately) GPS unit: GP-1 (available separately)
Audio input	Stereo mini-pin jack (3.5 mm diameter; plug-in power supported)
Audio output	Stereo mini-pin jack (3.5 mm diameter)
Supported languages	Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Persian, Polish, Portuguese (European and Brazilian), Romanian, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Tamil, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Vietnamese
Battery	One rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL15 battery
Battery pack	Optional MB-D15 multi-power battery pack with one rechargeable Nikon EN-EL15 Li-ion battery or six AA alkaline, Ni-MH, or lithium batteries
AC adapter	EH-5b AC adapter; requires EP-5B power connector (available separately)
Tripod socket	1/4 in. (ISO 1222)
Dimensions (W x H x D)	Approx. 135.5 x 106.5 x 76 mm (5.3 x 4.2 x 3.0 in.)
Weight	Approx. 765 g (1 lb 11.0 oz) with battery and memory card but without body cap; approx. 675 g (1 lb 7.8 oz; camera body only)
Temperature	0 °C - 40 °C (+32 °F - 104 °F)
Humidity	85% or less (no condensation)
Supplied accessories	EN-EL15 rechargeable Li-ion battery (with terminal cover), MH-25 battery charger, DK-5 eyepiece cap, AN-DC1 strap, UC-E17 USB cable, BS-1 accessory shoe cover, DK-23 rubber eyecup, BF-1B body cap, ViewNX 2 CD, User's Manual note Unless otherwise stated, all figures are for a camera with a fully-charged battery operating at the temperature specified by the Camera and Imaging Products Association (CIPA): 23 ±3 °C (73.4 ±5.4 °F).

Nikon ViewNX 2.7.2 released

2013-02-20T21:11:00.003+01:00

Nikon has released an update to their free image browser/editor ViewNX2.

The 2.7.2. update contains the following fixes:

Support for the COOLPIX L27, COOLPIX L820, COOLPIX P520, COOLPIX S31, COOLPIX S5200, COOLPIX S9400, COOLPIX S9500, and COOLPIX AW110 has been added.
With the renewal of Nikon's image storage and sharing service, my Picturetown (launched as NIKON IMAGE SPACE on January 28, 2013), ViewNX 2 has been modified to provide collaboration with NIKON IMAGE SPACE:

The my Picturetown tab in the Browser palette has been changed to a NIKON IMAGE SPACE tab.
Upload to my Picturetown… and Share on my Picturetown… options under the Web Service item in the toolbar have been changed to Upload to NIKON IMAGE SPACE… and Share on NIKON IMAGE SPACE…
The my Picturetown option under the Web Service item in the File menu has been changed to NIKON IMAGE SPACE.

You can download the update from the Nikon support site, e.g., EU/USA.

Nikon releases Capture NX 2.4.0

2013-02-05T16:38:00.000+01:00

Nikon just released an update for its image editing software application Nikon Capture NX 2.

Version 2.4.0 is a “full” release, meaning you can use it to either update an existing installation or as a fresh install.

The following points have been addressed in the release:
Windows and Mac OS X

Support for RAW images captured with the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 has been added.
The following modifications have been made to White Balance in the Camera Settings portion of the Develop section in the Edit List palette.
- Underwater can now be selected from New WB. However, Underwater can only be selected for RAW images captured with a camera that supports Underwater white balance.
- Resulting colors have been corrected when Flash was selected from New WB for RAW images captured with the Nikon 1 V2.
An issue that, in some rare cases, prevented display of some JPEG images has been resolved.

Windows only

Compatibility with 64- and 32-bit Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro, and Windows 8 Enterprise has been added. Proper operation has been confirmed with use in desktop mode. Touch screen operations are not supported.

Mac OS X only

Support for high-resolution display on Macintosh computers with a built-in Retina display has been added. However, this applies only to image display in the image window.

You can download the new version from the Nikon support sites: EU/USA (notice that, as seems to have become the norm for them, the USA site doesn't appear to be as accurate in their description of the update as the European site…)

New v1.2.1 firmware for the Canon EOS-1D X

2013-01-30T13:04:00.000+01:00

Canon today published a firmware update for its flagship EOS-1D X camera.

From the release notes, firmware version 1.2.1 incorporates the following improvements and fixes:

The function to disable the Image size selection button has been added.

Please see the instruction manual "EOS-1D X Firmware Version 1.2.x Additional Function" (PDF file) included in the downloaded firmware 1.2.1 folder for information on how to intentionally disable this button, after the firmware update 1.2.1 has been installed in the camera.

Fixes a phenomenon in which Err 70 and Err 80 may occur during certain shooting conditions.

Please note that the firmware update takes approximately seven minutes!

You can download the firmware update from the Canon website.

Sigma announces new 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM lens

2013-01-29T20:59:00.002+01:00

Lots of (lens) news today: Sigma just announced a new 30mm f/1.4 lens.

The new Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM is a lens specifically designed for APS-C (crop) sensor DSLRs and will be made available with a Sigma, Canon, or Nikon mount.

New firmware for the Nikon D4 (A:1.04/B:1.02)

2013-01-29T11:17:00.001+01:00

Today Nikon released a firmware update for their D4 flagship DSLR camera. This new firmware offers an improvement to the autofocus tracking capabilities of the camera.

From the release notes:

Subject tracking performance in AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus) autofocus mode with framing using the viewfinder has been improved.

As always, you can download the new A:1.04/B:1.02 firmware from the Nikon support sites: EU / USA