PhotoComment

Web Picks & News Round Up – Nikon D800 vs D4, Rat Race, 8K Video etc

Tristan - Founder — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 20:51:23 PST

This week has been a little quiet on the website this week. Apologies for that, but it has been worth it as the March issue of PhotoComment Magazine is out on regional delivery at this very moment and subscribers, your copies are on a postal truck today as well. We are working to have the magazine ready a week in advance every month so everyone gets the magazines by the first of each month. Read on for a catch up on some interesting things happening across the web.

PetaPixel

This has to be one of the coolest photography sites when you are looking for inspiring images, people or even quick tips. Here are some of our favourite articles coming out of PetaPixel in the past week or so.

Becoming a National Geographic Photographer

It is likely the dream for many photographers at some point or another to do an assignment for the National Geographic and even be a staff photographer. In this article you can find a summary of what a former Director of Photography at the Geographic would be looking for.

Chicago Street Photography

The video below is a fantastic combination of stills images combined with great audio. It features the work of Magnum photographer Alex Webb. You can find more about this series and a snippet from an interview with him in the PetaPixel article here.

Leica & Magnum: Photographs from the Streets of Chicago by Alex Webb from Leica Camera on Vimeo.

DIY/Craft Projects

PetaPixel have also shared some great DIY or craft projects that you may want to try this weekend. If you are still into reading paper books then you may find this bookmark craft using 35mm film a great idea. Alternatively if you are looking for something to make that you can use in your actual photography, then this DIY Bokeh Kit may be just up your alley. Lastly you can try make a twin lens reflex camera out of Lego as shown here.

Oh, and before we move on to another favourite site, PetaPixel shared this great video created by Samsung for Valentines using custom made Bokeh apertures. Check out the article here for links to “how to” videos etc.

The Phoblographer

This is a personal favourite site for mine. The team here give fantastic product reviews and tips.

HDR Tips

A great article shared on The Phoblographer is “5 Tips for Tasteful HDR Photography” well worth checking out.

HoldFast Camera Leash

A hands on review of what looks like a great camera strap alternative. Check it out here.

Nikon Rumors

If you are a Nikon fan in any way, you should be following this site.

Nikon D800 Resolution Poll

A poll running on the Nikon Rumors site is whether people are happy with the decision by Nikon to put a 36mp sensor in the new D800 or should they have gone with the 16mp found in the D4. At time of writing the poll was closer than I expected. 42.18% were happy with the 36mp sensor and the remaining almost 58% wanted the D4 sensor in the D800. Cast your vote here.

Nikon D800 Cost to US Dealers

Profit should not be a dirty word – though sometimes as consumers we think it is. In this article you will see an image of the Nikon USA cost on the D800 to their dealers. Makes for an interesting discussion. Wonder what local dealers in South Africa are being charged in comparison.

DP Review

We likely do not need to give DP Review an introduction, it is after all the most referenced review site for digital photography (cameras specifically) the world over.

8K Video Chip

The Japanese broadcaster NHK are apparently producing an 8K video sensor that will shoot at 120fps. That is a big deal because 8K video is roughly 16x larger than current HD. It means you could pull out a 30mp odd image from the video you are shoot. See the DP Review report here.

Pros Speak Out on Nikon D4 and D800

DP Review have published a piece where 4 pro photographers share their thoughts on the Nikon D4 and D800. Food for thought. Check it out here.

Rate Race

After a week like this I could not help but chuckle at the truth contained in this simple video shared by Scott Hutchison (who wrote the guest post a little while ago on the Leica M9) on Facebook. Enjoy your weekend and remember that Happiness does not always have to be around the next corner… or in the next camera, award winning picture etc.

Pre-Shoot Checklist Infographic

lisasolonynko — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:44:12 PST

PreShoot Checklist Infographic

Checklists are always handy to have and help to limit the reams of notes we use to try to remember everything.

This infographic provides an easy to read reference to help you remember:

Your gear needs
Things to remember regarding Logistics and Location, and
Personal things to remember. (If you have ever been to a newborn shoot where little Johnny just couldn’t hold it in, you will be grateful for these reminders)

I don’t think any of us has ever gone to a shoot and didn’t end up shaking our heads in disbelief about what we have forgotten. We hope that this infographic will help limit these times.

PreShoot Checklist Infographic

Web and News Round Up: Shower Head Shift Lens, Former Olympus Execs Arrested and much more

Tristan - Founder — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:24:17 PST

Maciej Pietuszynski's "maciekpp" Shower Head Shift Lens

This post is just a round up of some of the cool, interesting stories, videos and news we have found on the web or were just to swamped to cover as individual articles during the week. The March issue of PhotoComment is also being wrapped up to go to print next week. Hope you have a great weekend.

Nikon’s “Assisting Reconstruction Through Photography” Project

Nikon are working on a project with Junior High Schools in Eastern Japan where the earthquake and Tsunami hit last year. The project provides photography classes to students and will create photo books from the images they capture. You can find more details here.

Photoshopping Body Builders

You have seen those adverts promoting diet pills or fancy formulas to help build and tone your muscles right? Now deep down inside you must have know that it is not all as it appears to be but in case you had any doubts the video below which was posted this week by PetaPixel should help change your mind. They also have a second, even funnier, related video when you check out their full story here.

Bigger Faster Strong – Before & After Pictures Taken On The Same Day from Anthony Myers on Vimeo.

Remix

Another great video posted on PetaPixel is found below. It is part of a four part series which talks about Remixing, a theme which a reader (Neill Soden) introduced me to from a photographic perspective. While this four part video series is not directly related to photography, the concept of applying it to photography is very interesting. To see the other three videos head over to PetaPixel.

Everything is a Remix Part 1 from Kirby Ferguson on Vimeo.

Mirror Monkey Cam

Another great video shared by PetaPixel.

Olympus President Arrested

Reported by Rob Galbraith and numerous other websites was the arrest of 7 people related to the Olympus fraud scandal that has been making headlines in photographic and financial circles over the last few months. Among the 7 people taken into custody is the company’s former president and chairman, Tsuyoshi Kikukawa.

Shift Lens DIY

If you are a Do It Yourself kind of person then you really should be following the site DIYPhotography. This week they shared details on how a photographer took a niffty fifty lens and combining it with a shower head and rubber glove, made a tilt shift lens. Get the details here.

New Photo App Gets Rid Of Passers By

The last thing I want to share with you as you go into the weekend is this new photo app that will analyse a scene taking several images and allow you to erase the unwanted people who keep walking through your scene. Check the video below for a demo and get more details on Mashable’s site here or Engadget here.

Review: Latest Craft & Vision eBook – Exposure for Outdoor Photography by Michael Frye

Tristan - Founder — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:00:25 PST

(Review by Natalie Field)

As the title indicates, this eBook by Frye is all about exposure for outdoor photography.

This read is a short introduction to the fundamentals of photography: exposure, sharpness and ultimately, the message. Referred to by Frye as the “Exposure Triangle”, he covers the basic controls of exposure: shutter speed, aperture and ISO. He also teaches the reader how to select from the camera’s various metering and exposure modes, and to make educated decisions using digital tools like the histogram.

The pace of the eBook changes with the addition of ten practical case studies; illustrated with beautiful examples and explained by means of meter readings and histograms. These studies include situations in which one would expose for high, or low contrast scenes, creative depth of field and motion. As the assignments become more complicated, Frye also briefly touches on techniques such as bracketing, spot metering, Adam’s Zone System and HDR. These studies are interspersed with exercises which are designed for the reader to be able to participate in the image making; following instructions and technical advice on each section, before moving on to the next.

Ultimately, Frye believes that these controls should serve the photographer in order to fully capture his vision. He ends the book with imagery; using creative license to evoke a reaction in the viewer. For the novice, this book is a great introduction to exposure; set out in a way that is easy to grasp, with practical examples and useful exercises. Though the more professional photographer may find it all a little obvious, it never hurts to return to the basics. Either way, Frye’s photography – in itself – is inspirational

Launch Special

For the next five days only, use the promotional code EXPOSURE4 when you checkout so you can have the PDF version of Exposure For Outdoor Photography for only $4 OR use the code EXPOSURE20 to get 20% off when you buy 5+ PDF eBooks from the Craft & Vision collection. These codes expire at 11:59pm PST February 20, 2012.

Press Release and Opinion on Foto Distributors (Nikon SA) Recent Court Victory on Grey Imports

Tristan - Founder — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:33:11 PST

We received the following press release yesterday from Foto Distributors (the official distributors for Nikon in South Africa). I decided not to post it right after receiving it; concerned that it may perhaps send out the wrong message, even though it is done with good intentions. I have however decided to share my views on the topic and would appreciate your feedback.

To summarize the press release (and please keep in mind that this only takes one side of the story into account), Foto Distributors took Digital World (an online retailer based in Nelspruit) to court over the fact that they were importing and selling “Grey Goods”. Before I continue, let me define what “Grey Goods” are. They are products that are imported and sourced from channels other than the authorised distributor which – in the case of Nikon – would be Foto Distributors. The Consumer Protection Act requires that a retailer selling such products needs to inform the consumer that the product is a “Grey Import” and as such, does not come with a warranty from the local, authorised distributor. In fact, by law, the local distributor has no obligation towards that product at all.

It would appear that Digital World (according to Foto Distributors’ press release) were guilty of selling Grey Nikon products without making their clients aware of this fact. The court ruled in favour of Foto Distributors. The press release goes on to mention that this is a “potential victory for all official distributors and consumers against grey imported goods” which has had “a negative impact on our country’s economy, as well as on job creation in South Africa.”

While this press release does hint towards a victory for the greater number of consumers (especially for those buying entry level products every few years, when the old camera breaks, or needs an upgrade), it does strike me more as a warning shot across the bow to other retailers out there who are doing Grey Importing; particularly those who are not doing so within the legal frame work given by the CPA. All of this begs the question: how does it benefit those who are more serious photography enthusiasts, where our cameras are either a part of our very costly hobby, or even the tools of our profession? Another question to be asked is why retailers may feel the need to import grey products over purchasing through the local agents?

Let us look at the retailer’s side first.

Over a decade ago, when film cameras still demanded shelf space and surfing the web was a costly and slow affair, competition was less global and profit margins were hallowed ground. This is not to say that consumers were being ripped off – though there may very well have been some retailers who pushed more for margin than others – but it was generally acceptable to make a mark-up that allowed you to cover your overheads and warrant a space in a shopping mall. You could justify employing more knowledgeable staff, even if they cost a bit more, so that the customer was well serviced.

Even back then, Grey Products where still finding their way into the country, but more often than not, retailers took the price from the distributor and marked it up by a percentage (a low double digit) and put it on the shelf.

As the global marketplace has become more accessible, retailers have found themselves increasingly competing with products from abroad. In order to compete, margins have shrunk. It is not uncommon on highly competitive items (like middle- to top-end DSLR cameras, or lenses) to hear of retailers making low single digit percentage mark-ups. Increasingly, even entry level items are getting less than 10% mark-ups and cameras have become as ruthless as computers; where profits can only be made on high sales volumes. In such circumstances, some retailers have found that they can bring in products from other parts of the world (grey goods) and sell them for more reasonable margins, whilst still being relatively competitive. While I do not excuse retailers for not keeping to the law and informing consumers that a camera is a grey import, I do also think that such behaviour – if done within the law – should not be frowned upon if it keeps the store open and staff employed. There will be winners and losers on both sides of either scenario.

What about you and I – the photographer, or serious enthusiast in all of this? What do we win, or lose? We have already noted that with a grey product, we lose on a local warranty, but what if we are saving money by buying grey?

It is a sore point for many photographers that middle- to top-end cameras that are sold locally in South Africa can cost as much as 40-45% (in some cases) more here, than abroad. On a high-ticket item such as the Nikon D800, one can easily pay for shipping and numerous accessories at a similar price in buying abroad, as what would be charged locally. This was highlighted again by one of our readers on our Facebook Page.

As retail becomes an increasingly global affair, retailers and distributors are going to suffer if the consumer wants to gain greater savings. These saving can be more easily achieved by shortening the distribution/supply chain but that will negatively impact after sales support when the local repair centres have to shut shop unless they are funded from abroad.

I am still left with mixed feelings about the press release below. I think that it is commendable that Foto Distributors fights for consumers who have been taken by surprise when sold grey imported products unknowingly; thus having no warranty when things went wrong. I am just not sure that it is as grand a victory as it may be made out to be to consumer’s pockets. Only time will tell.

Press Release

Foto Distributors, distributors of Nikon in South Africa,
wins landmark case against grey goods importer.
A victory for consumers and end users in terms of the Consumer Protection Act.

South Africa, Johannesburg, 15 February 2012 – Foto Distributors (Pty) Ltd, the sole distributor of Nikon products in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, recently brought a case in the North Gauteng High Court against Digital World, an online digital goods supplier based in Nelspruit, which had been involved in the importing and sale of “grey goods”.

Section 25 of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) 68 of 2008 stipulates that suppliers must disclose to consumers when goods are grey imports, because generally these goods don’t enjoy the same warranties or after-sales back-up offered by the official South African distributors. This disclosure is known as a “conspicuous notice”. Suppliers who fail to comply can receive a fine of R 1,000,000.00 or 10% of the supplier’s turnover (whichever is higher).

Digital World had been importing Nikon products from alternative sources and was distributing these products to consumers without providing the required conspicuous notice. In the order, given on 1 February 2012, the court instructed Digital World to apply said notice to all grey goods that bear the Trade Mark “Nikon”. This notice would need to clearly state that the products had been imported without the approval or licence of the registered owner of the Nikon trade mark and that no guarantee and warranty of the products would be honoured by the official distributor in South Africa (Foto Distributors). According to the ruling, in terms of online retailers, the conspicuous notice has to in future appear on their website attached to each product to which it applies, as well as on the actual product packaging or in the event of a retail store clear signage next to each product.

“Grey-product importing has a negative impact on our country’s economy, as well as on job creation in South Africa. This is a potential victory for all official distributors and consumers against grey imported goods,” said Stefan van der Walt, CEO of Foto Distributors. “This is the first case of its kind won by a distributor in South Africa. It should have consequences for anyone attempting to sell grey products in this country, as it proves that the courts are not reluctant to act against non-compliance in terms of the CPA,” van der Walt said.

In Nikon’s case, consumers will be able to make more informed decisions when buying photographic equipment, in the knowledge that grey photographic goods do not carry local warranties, firmware updates, access to repairs, free training or any other value added services. They will be protected against exploitation by grey-goods importers and be able to enjoy all the benefits offered by Nikon in South Africa.

Web Picks: Converting Canon Kit Lenses to L-series, D800 etc

Tristan - Founder — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 05:06:04 PST

Can a lens’ performance improve if you just change it’s cosmetic appearance? Perhaps not, but it sure can look more impressive. Check out how you can change your standard 18-55mm Canon lens into an L-series fashion copy. Also a new short film shot on the Nikon D800 and more after the break.

PetaPixel Non “L” to “L” Lens Tutorial

It is amazing what you can achieve with some masking tape and red paint. PetaPixel posted a short tutorial on how with these simple stationary items you can convert your Canon 18-55mm into an L-series look alike. Check it out here.

Nikon D800 Short Film

Nikon posted a new short film entitled “Through the Lens” (shot on the D800) to their Youtube channel. In the description they say they say that this film is:

shot by Andrzej Sekula, who is famous as the cinematographer for movie classics such as Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction, using the D800′s movie-shooting function, D-Movie

Even if you are not a Nikon fan, the film a is beautiful illustration of why our sight is so precious.

Inside the Lytro Camera

The website Wireless Goodness have posted a tear down (where they take gadgets apart to see what is inside) of the Lytro camera which we have spoken about briefly before. If you want to see what is inside the camera causing one of the biggest stirs in years then click here.

Pictures of Sound Moving Paint

If you follow this link to PetaPixel, you will see some of the most amazing photographs of Paint dancing to the vibrations of sound from a speaker. It is incredible!

Medium Format

To end off, there is a very interesting article on the This Week In Photo site about Medium Format digital cameras following word that two big names in the industry (David Hobby of strobist.com and Zack Arias) are moving on up to medium format monsters. The article by Sohail Mandani is some great food for thought. Check it out here.

Photobia – Woman seeks a Photographer to wed.

Married to the photographer — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:00:07 PST

(This article was featured in the February 2012 issue of PhotoComment Magazine)

Ever wondered what the outside world thinks about photographers? Face it you do live in your own world of observation, f-stops and fill flash – some words I have heard you use numerous times.

Women mostly seek out photographers to photograph their weddings but rarely is the photographer the groom. By now I am sure you have worked out I am not a photographer – but I will defend myself and say I can take a good picture. I am married to the photographer, the light breather, the constant clicker and painful critic of his own images. A constant stream of new cameras, dug out old cameras, ancient cameras are always on our bed. Not only does my hubby like to photograph things he likes to talk – meaning I have a constant talk radio show about software upgrades and new model releases. Our whole home is a buzz of photobia and I plan to name a growing number of house cats Leica, Hasselblad, Nikon, Canon, Holga and could I call a cat Lomo? I am undecided. I will have to name a dog Alpha. This way I can say those names with the same affection as my husband. Those hunks of plastic, metal and glass now lying on my bed don’t make my heart purr.

Living in photobia you do glean a thing or two. All the banter with model names, letters and numbers go into the garbage disposal of my mind but I do feel I have a heightened sense of quality photography. The majority of women’s fashion magazines are not my idea of creative inspiring photography. I have seen one fashion shoot I have seen them all. Try the homemaking magazines the photographers show more originality in the food sections at times.

This got me thinking. Where do mainstream everyday people with no personal link to “photobia” ever experience quality photography? Perhaps the one shot cover of a news paper at times.

As I have lived with numerous photographs being flashed before my face of different photographers a sense of awareness has grown in me about, lighting, composition and exposure. I have learnt to look at photographs and see meaning. I can walk away from a black and white photograph of a 70yr old ballerina thinking about aging well, life’s experiences and be amazed at how beautiful she is. Flipping through a magazine leaves me wondering how much photoshop and colour enhancement was done here just to get one women to look like the women on the next page.

What I am proposing to all those who live the photobia life is to share more and care less that people might think you crazy and artsy. Photography is a powerful medium but like with words on a page needs to be taught so it can be read.

I realise I might have offended some fashion photographers here. Please know I am aware of the brief you need to adhere to when shooting for magazines. I feel that often the aim of the photo shoot to sell fashion is often too narrow for “experiments with creativity” as a magazine may put it. I believe there is an untapped well of creativity in fashion photographers as they all can’t work for the high end fashion magazines like Vogue.

To the fashion photographers and all photographers please share more. I feel my life would be enriched by your art and believe others will be affected in the same way. Teach people how to “read” quality photography.

If those hunks of photographic equipment on my bed are producing inspiring thought provoking images I am privileged to share a home, a bed and a few pets with them.

Show Your Photography Clients Some Love

lisasolonynko — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:05:19 PST

Show Your Photography Clients Some Love

To us photographers, clients are everything. Without them we are out of business.

Here is a clever little infographic to remind us how to show our clients some love. This will quickly translate into a great reputation and lots of referrals.

Show Your Photography Clients Some Love

News Round Up: Nikon D800, Pentax K-01, Olympus OM-D and lots more

Tristan - Founder — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:58:43 PST

It has been a very busy news period, so much so in fact that I have felt completely swamped. It was almost as if while I was reading the rumours on one site, the full announcement was taking place elsewhere. From point and shoots to long awaited top end beasts there is a lot of new product about to hit shelves around the world.

Nikon

Nikon have been very busy lately. Let us kick off with the compact cameras starting with the Coolpix P510 which features a 16mp back-lit CMOS sensor and a massive 42x optical zoom. That is a 1000mm lens in a compact camera! The L810 is also a 16mp camera with a tiny (in comparison to the P510 that is) 26x zoom range. The P510 shoots for 1080p HD video where the smaller L810 offers 720p.

In the S-series Coolpix we find the new S9300 and S6300. The former has the 16mp back-lit sensor with an 18x zoom lens and built in GPS. The latter puts a 10x zoom on the same 16mp sensor with no GPS. Going a little lower down the range is the S4300 and S3300. They both offer 16mp with 6x zoom. The S4300 has a larger (3-inch) touch screen opposed to the S3300′s 2.7-inch display. Let us briefly summarize the rest of the range.

Coolpix S30 – A 10mp, 3x zoom, waterproof camera (3 meters) which Nikon say any member of the family can use, including the kids.
Coolpix S2600 – 14mp with 5x optical zoom
Coolpix L26 – 16mp with 5x optical zoom
Coolpix L25 – 10mp with 5x optical zoom

Lastly in the Coolpix range, the P310 which has the 16mp back-lit CMOS sensor and a 4.2x zoom lens with an f/1.8 aperture. It looks like this model is taking aim at the Canon S95/S100 though it does not appear to shoot RAW like the Canon’s do.

The really big Nikon news though is the announcement of the D800. This full frame camera pushes the resolution envelope to a whopping 36mp. You can find the full press release with all the specs here. Below is a short film shot on the D800.

Joy Ride from Sandro on Vimeo.

Canon

Canon have also found it hard to contain themselves in announcing new compact cameras. The PowerShot D20 is only Canon’s second rugged compact camera. It is significantly smaller than the SD10 was and features a 12mp sensor with 5x zoom and GPS. It is waterproof to 10m. The SX260HS is a pocket-able big zoom camera. It has a 20x zoom lens on 12mp back-lit CMOS sensor. It also features GPS which it’s twin – the SX240HS – does not. The A-series of PowerShot compacts was completely overhauled. Here is a quick summary of the models.

PowerShot A810 – 16mp, 5x zoom, 720p, AA Batteries
PowerShot A1300 – 16mp, 5x zoom, 720p, AA Batteries, Optical Viewfinder
PowerShot A2300 – 16mp, 5x zoom, 720p, Li-ion battery
PowerShot A2400 IS – 16mp, 5x zoom, HD video, Li-ion battery, Image Stabilising
PowerShot A3400 IS – 16mp, 5x zoom, HD video, Li-ion battery, Image Stabilising, 3-inch screen
PowerShot A4000 IS – 16mp, 8x zoom, HD video, Li-ion battery, Image Stabilising, 3-inch screen

Canon also announced a revamped 24-70mm f/2.8 L II which does not have Image Stabilization as many had hoped but is said to be lighter and smaller which is interesting cause the filter size is 82mm, bigger than the 77mm on the predecessor. Also announced were the 28mm f/2.8 IS and 24mm f/2.8 IS. Why put image stabilising in two fixed focal length, wide angle lenses and not in the 24-70mm? Maybe it is more applicable to videographers?

Pentax

Not trying to overwhelm us with quantity of cameras is Pentax. They have announced a new rugged compact camera in the WG-2. This unit features a 16mp back-lit CMOS sensor and can go down to a depth of 40 feet (12m) in the water. Engadget report here. While that is impressive it is the second camera announcement from Pentax that caused a stir and left many scratching their head with a puzzled expression on their face. The K-01 is a K-mount mirrorless camera which – due to the fact that it uses normal K-mount lenses – is not a very compact mirrorless camera at all. It has been designed by Marc Newson (excuse my ignorance if I ask who that is) and looks… different. Fact is that the camera is only mildly smaller than a normal Pentax K DSLR so we are left kind of asking what they are thinking with this camera.

Sony

Kicking of with Cyber-shot news. Sony recently announced 3 new models in their compact camera range which push the resolution envelope. In particular is the TX200V which sports an 18mp Exmor-R CMOS sensor, 5x Zeiss lens and is waterproof to 5m or 16ft. The WX70 and WX50 feature a 16mp Exmor-R CMOS sensor and 5x zoom. See news here.

Other big news from Sony is the official announcement – finally – of the 500mm f/4 G lens for the Alpha range. No indication on price yet but I have a funny feeling it is not going to be cheaper than the Nikon and Canon equivalent. Story here.

Tamron

The old Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 gained a fantastic reputation with those needing a fast zoom lens on a budget. Now the company has announced a 24-70mm f/2.8 VC (Vibration Control) will be joining their range of lenses. It will feature their USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) motor for improved autofocus speed and be available in Nikon, Canon and Sony mounts. It is interesting to note that none of those brands own lenses in that range are image stabilised. If this lens performs on par with the camera brands own products they could see some serious losses on sales in this range, particularly when you consider that Canon’s latest version of that lens still lacks Image Stabilisation despite rumours that it would be a feature.

Olympus

It is good to see new developments from Olympus despite the massive bad publicity they have had recently after the former CEO revealed huge losses that had been covered up in the past. While the new TG-820 iHS rugged compact with 12mp back-lit CMOS and SZ-31MR iHS with 24x zoom and 16mp back-lit CMOS sensor are cool, it is really the resurrection of the OM brand that has everyone talking. OM cameras in the film days were the smallest, lightest, quietest SLR cameras around. The system for many was as prestigious as Leica and Contax. Now Olympus have introduced a Micro Four Thirds camera claiming the heritage of the OM. The OM-D E-M5 has a 16mp sensor any is weather sealed. It looks great and we hope to get our hands on it in the future. Also announced for the Micro Four Thirds system is a 75mm f/1.8 lens and 60mm f/2.8 macro.

Please excuse any typos, poor grammar etc. I wanted to post this today but in a bit of a rush to get to the Nikon South Africa launch of the D4 and D800 this evening so have only skimmed through it before hitting publish.

Video: Shtuff People Say To Photographers

Tristan - Founder — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:33:25 PST

Here is some humour that can brighten up your day… though it will hit a very truthful and tender spot for most of us as well. It is a great video about the things people say to photographers that drive them a little wild. The most famous one is that of “Wow that is a great photograph, you must have a great camera”. This video actually ties in really nicely with a post from another photography site (Improve Photography) that we tweeted out yesterday. You can check that article here. Enjoy the video and share your thoughts or other lines you have heard in the comments.

Press Release: Nikon D800

Tristan - Founder — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:40:37 PST

Johannesburg, South Africa, 7th February 2012 – Nikon in South Africa today announces a groundbreaking new 36.3 megapixel FX-format professional D-SLR, the Nikon D800.

Designed to answer the needs of tomorrow’s photography and video today, the masterful Nikon D800 is packed with new technology that delivers unprecedented levels of depth and detail in photography, and offers all the flexibility necessary to shoot broadcast quality video.

Firmly establishing a league of its own, the Nikon D800 offers imaging potential to rival medium format cameras, but with all of the agility of the D-SLR format — giving professionals who demand attention to detail the freedom to create monumental images.

In an industry first, this exciting launch includes a special edition of the D800 – the Nikon D800E. With a modified optical filter, the D800E offers a unique alternative for those seeking the ultimate in definition.
Romi Jacobs, Chief Brand Officer for Nikon in South Africa said: “The Nikon D800 is the ultimate full-frame D-SLR with significant ramifications for the future of image making and video. The overwhelming 36.3 megapixel resolution resolves detail like never before and the comprehensive video options will captivate moviemakers of all disciplines.” She added: “We’re really excited about what the D800 means for anyone who is serious about telling stories through still images, movies or both.”

The big picture

The groundbreaking 36.3 megapixel FX-format (full-frame) CMOS sensor incorporates key technology that enables unprecedented levels of detail and tonal range.

12-channel readout with 14-bit A/D conversion and high signal-to-noise ratio: delivers images of remarkable quality with low noise and wide dynamic range.

Broad ISO: offering an ISO range of 100–6400, extendable up to 25600 (equivalent) and down to 50 (equivalent), the D800 will set a new benchmark for D-SLRs with this level of resolution. The camera’s intelligent noise reduction systems manage noise without sacrificing fine details, allowing superb flexibility under all lighting conditions: images are crisp and clean, even at higher ISO settings.

Peak performance

Equipped with Nikon’s next-generation EXPEED 3 image-processing engine, the D800 makes light work of data-rich tasks without sacrificing the speed and quality that pros are accustomed to.
16-bit image processing: offering richer colours and tones than ever before, this cutting-edge image processor delivers smooth gradations with abundant detail and tone all the way up the scale to pure white, even when shooting in JPEG.

Broadcast quality video

For professionals whose workflow demands video, the D800 offers all the flexibility required for a wide variety of movie applications. It’s large format movie shooting at its best, with a comprehensive variety of frame rates.

Frame rates: Full HD (1080p) movies can be recorded in 30p, 25p and 24p, with 60p, 50p and 25p options at 720p. Movie clips can be up to 29:59 minutes long.

Multi-Format Full HD D-Movie: as introduced with the D4, Full HD recording is possible in both FX and DX based formats, enabling exceptional freedom of expression.

High-fidelity audio control: responding to feedback from the industry, the D800 sets a new standard for D-SLR audio recording, enabling your movies to sound as good as they look. Aside from the external stereo microphone input, an audio out for external headphones lets you fine tune audio in isolation, both before and during movie recording. A line input setting for PCM linear recorders is also provided.

Uncompressed HDMI output: for those who need the purest video output for professional quality editing, the D800 offers the possibility to output the uncompressed live view to external recorders and monitors. As with the Nikon D4, this data is output at the designated image size and frame rate, and is clean of the information overlay that can be simultaneously displayed on the camera’s TFT monitor.

Convenient custom controls: have been implemented for live view operation. Instead of rotating the command dial, power aperture enables smoother aperture control using assigned buttons on the front of the camera. Index marking helps you tag important frames in the timeline by attaching markers during movie recording, which makes for easy location during editing.

Advanced scene recognition with 91K-pixel RGB sensor

Nikon’s revolutionary Advanced Scene Recognition System now incorporates a newly designed 91,000-pixel RGB sensor that meticulously analyses each scene for outstanding accuracy. It can detect human faces with startling exactness even with exclusive use of the optical viewfinder, and recognize a scene’s colours and brightness with unprecedented precision.

This level of detailed scene analysis is also utilized to support more accurate autofocus; auto exposure and i-TTL flash exposure results in a diverse range of compositional and lighting situations. For example, 3D-subject tracking is particularly improved when shooting smaller subjects.

Implementing Nikon’s highly-acclaimed Multi-CAM 3500FX AF system — with individually selectable or configurable 9-, 21- and 51-point coverage settings — the autofocus sensor module and algorithms have been re-engineered to significantly improve low light acquisition sensitivity capabilities down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20°C/68°F). The overall performance is similar to the latest flagship of Nikon, the D4: AF operation is even possible under a combined aperture value of f8 (e.g. a 600mm f/4 AF-S lens combined with 2x-teleconverter TC-20EIII) with 11 AF sensor involved, and with 15 AF sensors between f/5.6 and f/8.

Simplified AF and AF-area mode selection is now possible without taking your eye away from the viewfinder.

Responsive and intuitive

The Nikon D800 responds as quickly as you do, with secure, conveniently placed, buttons and controls that quickly become an extension of your hand.

Fast response: start-up is approx. 0.12 seconds1, release time lag is minimized to approx. 0.042 seconds2 (equivalent to that of the D4), with continuous approx. 4 fps capability in FX-format and crop modes, pushed to approx. 6 fps capability in DX-format Crop mode with the optional Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D12.

Precision 8-cm (3.2-in.), approx. 921k-dot, wide-viewing-angle LCD monitor with automatic monitor brightness control: delivers bright, crisp image playback with a much wider colour reproduction capacity. LCD brightness is automatically adjusted according to the viewing environment and images can be magnified up to 46x during playback, which can be a big help for spot focus confirmation.

Glass prism optical viewfinder with approximately 100% frame coverage and 0.7x magnification (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1.0m-1).

Dual-axis electronic virtual horizon offers accurate confirmation of level shooting by letting you check the LCD monitor, or the viewfinder, for both the camera’s position in relation to the horizontal plane and its pitch (forward or rear rotation).

Enhanced ergonomics: buttons and dials have been strategically laid out for fluid operation. Improvements around the shutter-release button mean your index finger can rest comfortably for longer periods of time, while the designated movie record button means you’re ready to trigger movie shooting in an instant. Build features high-quality rubber materials for secure grip.

Release mode dial: mode visibility and operability has been improved via a four-button layout and release mode dial on camera’s top deck, along with dedicated buttons for ISO, White Balance and Image Quality. A new bracketing button has been strategically placed to aid such features as HDR.

Direct access to Picture Controls via a new, dedicated button, rather than via the menu. Picture Controls let you customize the look of your stills and videos by fine-tuning parameters such as sharpness, saturation, and hue.

Durability

Despite its light weight and compact size, the D800 is as tough as Nikon’s professional single digit cameras, with extensive weather and dust sealing throughout to ensure you can keep working when the going gets tough.

High-precision, high-durability shutter: the shutter unit has been tested to well over 200,000 cycles of release to prove durability and precision. Boasts a speed range of 1/8000 to 30s; features an intelligent self-diagnostic shutter monitor and, for the first time, a drive unit designed to reduce the demand on power when the shutter is raised for extended periods during movie shooting.

Efficient power management: a re-working of the D800’s circuits now enables approx. 850 shots3 of still image shooting or approx. 60 min. of movie live view4. All on one charge of a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15.

Build quality: as reliable on the road as it is in the studio, the D800 boasts a weather- and dust-sealed magnesium alloy body that weighs in at approx. 10% lighter than the D700.

Storage media: high-speed CF (UDMA 7) and SD (SDXC and UHS-1) dual card slots.

High-speed data transfer with USB 3.0.

Nikon D800E – The ultimate alternative

The Nikon D800E is a special edition of the D800, specifically designed for those seeking absolute definition.

Incorporating an optical filter with anti-aliasing properties removed in order to facilitate the sharpest images possible, this is an ideal tool for photographers who can control light, distance and their subject to the degree where they can mitigate the increased risk of moiré5 and false colour. Aside from the optical filter, all functions and features are the same as on the D800.

Creative expansion tools

The D800 incorporates a variety of creative and practical tools for those too busy to spend time in excessive post-production.

Time-lapse movies: the D800 extends the popular time-lapse photography function by saving images as a movie file in the camera. With playback rates from 24 to 36,000 times faster than normal.

HDR (High Dynamic Range) shoots one overexposed and one underexposed frame in a single shutter release. The range can be widened by up to 3 EV for different looks, full of saturation and tonal gradation, while the smoothness of the edge where the two exposures meet can be adjusted for a more natural appearance.

Refined colour temperature control enables minute control over white balance. The monitor hue of live view and the resulting image’s white balance can be adjusted so that the two are aligned. Colour temperature can be manually set in 10-Kelvin increments, or in mired units.

Auto shutter speed control for auto ISO sensitivity control: a new auto option for minimum shutter speed, which automatically controls the balance between shutter speed and ISO sensitivity based on the focal length of the lens being used.

Four image area options: for the first time in a camera of this class, you can choose from a variety of image crop modes, all visually masked in the viewfinder. 5:4 (30.0 x 24.0 mm), 1.2x (30.0 x 19.9 mm), and DX-format (23.4 x 15.6 mm).

In-camera editing: captured images and movies can be altered and edited in camera and on the fly if required. Retouch menus include an array of useful features such as NEF (RAW) processing, resize, distortion control, fisheye, miniature effect, red-eye correction, filter effects and image overlay — as well as the ability to designate the start and end point of movie clips all at once, in order to save them more efficiently.

Accessories

Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D12 (optional) accommodates a variety of batteries (see specifications) and utilizes the same integral magnesium alloy construction and weather sealing as the D800 body itself. You also get approx. 6 fps continuous shooting speed6 in DX-format. The MB-D12 has its own dedicated shutter-release button and command dials for vertical composition shooting.

Nikon SB-910 (optional) — unparalleled lighting performance: Nikon’s SB-910 offers versatile i-TTL for on-camera or wireless flash control, refined operability and a powerful guide number of 34/112 (ISO 100, m/ft, STD, FX format, zoom 35mm). Menus and controls have been improved for more operational ease. Hard-type incandescent and fluorescent colour filters are included, which can adjust your D800‘s white balance instantly.

Capture NX 2 (optional) — Fast, powerful and creative image processing: to accommodate the imaging power of the D800’s 36.3 effective megapixels, the latest Capture NX 2 is faster than before and 64-bit compatible7.

Camera Control Pro 2 (optional) — Versatile remote camera controls: aside from controlling exposure mode, shutter speed, and aperture, the software now offers numerous improvements to make the D800’s live view operation exceptionally smooth. New creative controls include remote start and stop for movie shooting and switching between live view for stills and movies.

ViewNX 2 (supplied) — Browse, edit, share and more: this bundled, all-in-one software implements an easy-to-use interface and an array of editing functions, including basic editing of RAW files and D-Movies. Seamlessly integrates with my Picturetown, Nikon’s photo sharing and storage service.

1. Based on CIPA Standards
2. When used together with batteries other than EN-EL15
3. Based on CIPA Standards
4. Live view shooting may end automatically before 60 min. to prevent overheating
5. The D800E carries and increased possibility of moiré and false colour compared to the D800. This can be minimised for RAW shooters in post with the Moiré Reduction tools available in Capture NX2.
6. When used together with batteries other than EN-EL15
7. The D800E carries and increased possibility of moiré and false colour compared to the D800. This can be minimised for RAW shooters in post with the Moiré Reduction tools available in Capture NX2.

2012 Photo Decathlon Competition

Tristan - Founder — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 03:12:09 PST

It has arrived: the PhotoComment 2012 Photo Decathlon. Those of you who have picked up the February issue of PhotoComment Magazine (or have been very attentive on the site) will know a little about it, but here is the official statement…

Over the years we have enjoyed seeing your images and have tried different types of competitions to urge you to share more of your photographs with us. Some have worked better than others. We took a break for the last few months in order to work on an initiative that would be more challenging and inspiring, but one that would challenge your creativity, while also being more rewarding.

From March through to December 2012 we will be issuing a monthly theme around which you can submit your images for judging. Some themes will carry prizes. Other themes will just be for the thrill of the fight (play nice though… this is more about improving your personal skills). Each of the top 20 photographers in each theme will be awarded points for their image and for their placement within that particular theme. In January 2013 – with the final theme’s judging completed – we will tally the points. The overall winner will then be the photographer who has accumulated the highest score.

Are you wondering what the prizes are? We will be announcing more and more prizes as the competition progresses. As we now kick off with the March theme, the two sponsors on board are Vega and Graham Robertson Photographic. There are more brands coming on board and we will be finalising their prizes in the coming weeks. In the mean time, get shooting! We will announce each theme in the month prior; in order to give you two months in which to enter your images.

Charge your batteries, pop in an empty card (or a new roll of film) and kick that lens cap off!

PhotoComment Magazine Feb 2012 Issue is Live

Tristan - Founder — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 22:00:47 PST

It’s February 2012 and the latest issue of PhotoComment magazine is live on the site and is ‘hitting’ stores around the country. You can read the online version here. Read on if you want a summary of what is inside… To find the nearest stockist, head on over to the lists page here.

Inside February 2012 Issue

Armani kicks off this issue by sharing his latest indulgence in film photography. That’s right; film – the analogue forefather to the digital sensor in your camera, or cellphone. Read the Editor’s Comment for more time travel.

Professional Portfolio

This issues Professional Portfolio is an international one. Sarah Daloise is a pet photographer who is based in Canada. If you are a fan of photographing fur, then this is just for you.

Technique

Compositing is the technique of creating an image from several photographs, or parts thereof. Armani shares this technique in the application of one of his favourite subjects: action photography.

Back Up Feature

In the last little while, several photographers I know have been hit by theft, or failing hard drives which have resulted in the loss of their precious images. For this reason, I took some time to write about how to back up your images. Read and apply it straight away.

Student Portfolio

Christine Visser is a student of Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and has a diverse range of subjects in her portfolio. Her underwater photography, in particular, caught my eye.

Review

The Samsung NX-200 is only Samsung’s 4th mirrorless camera and is a very different ‘beast’ to its predecessors. You can see the condensed review by Armani in the magazine, or get the more in-depth review here on the PhotoComment site.

Final Comment

In 2012, I have undertaken to do a 365 (366 because of the leap year) photo project. In my Final Comment I talk about the experience thus far and issue a call for you to join me in this endeavour.

Exhibition: SPLIT FACADES – Opens 2 Feb 2012

Tristan - Founder — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:31:59 PST

SPLIT FACADES is a photographic project that explores the duality of experience and physical interaction that is manifested in the continuously changing landscape of Johannesburg city. The project aims to interrogate how the continuing push toward a globally marketable, gentrified ‘African’ city that has taken place over the past few years, ultimately fails to consider the informal but longstanding identity and ingenious culture of Johannesburg’s current inhabitants as one that is tied to the physical landscape of the city itself.

The exhibition, curated by Thato Mogotsi, will feature a series of black and white prints by Kutlwano Moagi, alongside audio and video installations. These works will suggest a new understanding of the city’s landscape as one that ought to consider the different planes of consciousness and unconsciousness which inhabitants experience when moving through the city.

Please join us for the opening reception on Thursday, 2 February at 18.30, GoetheonMain, Arts on Main.

About the Photographer:

KUTLWANO MOAGI is an independent photographer. Born in Soweto, Johannesburg, 14 April 1983. He completed a photography learnership programme at the Market Photo Workshop in 2005 and has since participated in numerous group exhibitions locally and internationally. Among these is the Reportage Atri Festival in Italy. Split Facades is his first solo exhibition.

About the Curator:

THATO MOGOTSI is an independent curator and writer with a special focus on documentary photography. She received training in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography from the Market Photo Workshop in 2006 and later went on to join the daily newspaper, The Times, as assistant photo editor and online picture researcher. Recently, she was project assistant and co-curator on several critical projects including the Wide Angle Forum on Participatory Photography Practice and the 2011 FNB Joburg Art Fair, among others. Split Facades is her first independent curatorial project.

Review: Samsung NX-200

Armani Quintas — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:00:44 PST

Samsung’s NX200 is the electronic ‘giant’s’ latest flagship mirrorless camera; and one which they hope will be taken seriously as a photographic tool for beginners in order to compete against the likes of well-established brands such as: Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Sony, and Nikon (all of whom have many more years experience as camera manufacturers). The NX200 has a 1.5x APS-C-sized sensor. The only other mirrorless cameras to feature sensors that big are Sony’s NEX range. Panasonic and Olympus both have a 2x crop sensor and Nikon opted for an even smaller 2.7 crop. At 20.3MP, the NX200 also has the 2nd highest megapixel count for a mirrorless camera. Only Sony’s range-topper (NEX7) has more (with 24MP). At the moment, Samsung’s sensor is in fact one of highest resolution cameras on the market; regularly out-resolving many pro-level DSLR’s. On paper then: Samsung’s 2nd generation flagship mirrorless camera looks good.

First Impressions
The Samsung’s body is well built; consisting mostly of a metal construction, with solid and smooth controls. It has a very modern geometric shape which is surprisingly comfortable to hold but because the edges of the body are quite sharp, it can sometimes put uncomfortable pressure on the user’s hand (though I didn’t find it to be a major concern). The control layout is very intuitive, with well placed buttons and dials. Unfortunately, I was sad to see that the build quality of the lenses doesn’t quite match up to that of the body. I’ll talk more about the lenses later…

Due to the fact that Samsung are an electronics giant who manufacture everything from high definition TV’s, to cellphones, they are not strangers to making graphic user interfaces. The NX200 is no exception to that. Simply put: it has the most attractive graphics in a user interface that I’ve yet seen in a camera and it is also easy enough to use. The menu system looks more like that of a smart phone than a camera. Beginners should grasp it quickly.

Unlike many mirrorless cameras which I have recently tested, the NX200 has a hotshoe mount for the connecting of speedlight flashes. The downside of this is that there is no built in/pop-up flash in the body (although a flash unit does come standard when you purchase the camera with kit lens, so it will not have to be purchased separately).

In Use
Setting up the camera is easy enough to do with its easy-to-read menu system. This means that getting up and running doesn’t take much time at all. Autofocus is fast and accurate and can be switched off for precision work in manual focus mode.

One of the few problems that I had with the camera had to do with flash syncing. Even though it has a hotshoe mount, it only recognises original Samsung flashes. If any other flash or wireless trigger is connected, it does not read it; and therefore does not activate the hotshoe mount, making it very difficult to use an off-camera flash. Strangely, it did recognise Elinchrome’s Skyport triggers, but it did not recpgnise anything else that we tried.

The kit lens is quite sharp. It is not quite tack sharp, but is better than I expected (though only when shooting in JPEG). The processing applied to the JPEGs must be quite high as shooting in RAW has an alarming amount of chromatic aberration; the most I’ve ever seen in a modern digital camera. I wouldn’t suggest shooting in RAW unless you are prepared to spend a substantial amount of time post-processing in order to get the most out of the images. Speaking of the lenses; and as mentioned earlier, I was somewhat let down by their build quality. They are not bad by any means, but they do not match up to the solid feel of the body. The Samsung’s lenses are not comparable to their competition. For example: the build of Sony’s NEX range of lenses is more solid; with smoother zoom- and focus-rings.

High ISO noise quality on the NX200 is decent. It is not quite great, but is better than that of other cameras of its type which I have recently tested. I get the feeling that – had Samsung used a lower resolution sensor instead of the massive 20.3 megapixel count sensor – the camera might have been better equipped to create images that would be better at higher ISO’s.

Conclusion
I was impressed more than what I initially thought that I would be by the NX200. Considering Samsung’s short track history of advanced cameras – though they still have some way to go in some areas – it is plain to see that Samsung want to be taken seriously in the mirrorless market. Local support by dealers is not yet of the requirement needed by users who wish to expand on accessories. Third party lenses, flashes, and other various accessories are neither available, nor do many dedicated camera dealers stock original accessories such as spare batteries; making it difficult to grow on the system. However, Samsung already have several lenses available such as: standard lenses, a fast aperture wide prime, and a macro lens. This means that a few options are available for prospective buyers. The resolution is needlessly high; sacrificing high ISO image quality which is an area in which most camera brands should be and are advancing. It would perhaps have been better if Samsung had kept the accessory port below the hotshoe mount – used for connecting the optional electronic viewfinder – that was available on the NX200’s predecessor (the NX100), but Samsung omitted that from their latest model. It is good to see that Samsung opted for an APS-C-sized sensor when other brands are choosing to go for smaller sized sensors. The NX200 is a good option for users who want to become more advanced in their photography, without becoming as specialised as what a DSLR system would allow for. [o]

Last Day for our Reader’s Survey

Tristan - Founder — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:43:35 PST

Today is you last chance to complete the PhotoComment Reader’s Survey and stand a chance to win a Vanguard Heralder 38 camera bag. The easiest way to complete it is online right here.

Weekend Round Up of News and Cool Web Videos

Tristan - Founder — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:18:37 PST

This is Friday post to wrap up things I wanted to share with you in terms of news and cool videos I have seen on the web. Take some time to check it out and then pack up to go home and relax. Tomorrow you can go out shooting and have some fun with your photography.

News

Tokina and Tamron

It has taken them long enough to make up their minds about this, or so it would seem as we don’t know what happens behind the scenes, but Tamron and Tokina have joined the Micro Four Thirds group with includes Olympus, Panasonic and Sigma. You can find out more about it here. Seems Mirrorless is something everyone wants to be a part of now.

Pentax

Pentax have just released a new compact camera, the Option VS20. It is not the 16mp sensor or 20x zoom that makes it exciting. It is the fact that the camera has two shutter buttons, one of which is on its side, like a vertical grip is on a DSLR. How cool is that. Check it out here.

Kenko

This is not as hot off the press as it could be, but Kenko have announced a 400mm f/8 Mirror lens for mirrorless cameras. This could be fun to see. How many of you know what a mirror lens is? Would you like us to do an article about them for you?

Web Videos

Via PetaPixel

Lastly a documentary about Ansel Adams. Its a long one so make sure you got time and a fair bit of Data.

Via PetaPixel

Guest Post: Call on editors to think ‘visual’ by Artwell Nwaila

Tristan - Founder — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:19:20 PST

Artwell Nwaila is the Editor of SA Creative Network “a platform where creatives, thought leaders and idea engineers network”

This is my challenge to all publication managers and editors: to break away from the pack with a ‘photographic revamp’.

The state of photography in the commercial world – namely: magazines – is at its lowest. That is not to say that the photographers have lost their skill, but that the requirements and briefs have suppressed the art form. It is all about formula these days and it is pretty basic. Celeb + over-processing = sales. This formula may have been hugely successful in the mid-1990s, but not anymore.

Sales figures are all the proof I need to back up my previous statement. The internet is by far one of the strongest factors contributing to the drop in sales. Access to information and direct updates from our much loved celebrities is free and readily available. Readers are constantly bombarded with images of celebrities online and on television. Would it not then make sense to rethink the most important page image strategy?

Let me demonstrate a quick example: How many Kim Kardashian magazine covers have you seen? Which one stood out for you? Your answer – more than likely – is that none stood out; as they all looked the same. So, what does it do for the brands if they are not stepping away from the flock and capturing our imagination at that key moment? I am talking about the moment when we are at the shelves, making a decision about which magazine to purchase. It is understandable that some magazines’ core focus is celebrities. This – in itself – is a perfect opportunity for visual restructuring.

In the 1970s, Rolling Stone magazine had a strong celeb-centric focus; and it still has. Under the fine eye of the young Annie Leibovitz, celebrities were portrayed in a conceptualised manner. Ideas backed every element of the cover shoot. Iconic covers – like those featuring John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Bette Midler on a bed of Roses, and Whoopi Goldberg in a tub of milk – ‘jumped’ off the shelf and stuck in the mind. And they still do. Today, there is no such a thing as an iconic cover. Let it be noted that it was at this stage that Rolling Stone magazine was able to relocate to New York due to its growing popularity. Leibovitz fed the youth culture’s hunger, while also using creativity to sell.

So what now?

As photographers, it is almost impossible to change company structures that have been embedded for years. A collective effort with the rest of the creative team and a mock up presentation may open some eyes. Or it may shut them… but at least you tried.

I also call on editors to allow the photographers to do what they do best without constraints, even if the work never gets published. It’s a good way to see a way forward. For editors, it is understandable why they stick to a particular formula as they have to follow certain quotas, but it is also about being innovative.

My prediction and conclusion

Digital publications will be much more edgy than their print counterparts due to cost differences. Online magazines are substantially cheaper and so risks are less but if you’re like me and believe print will never die, you’ll agree that innovation belongs in our hands.

News Round Up: Kodak Bankruptcy, New Sony Sensor,

Tristan - Founder — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 01:30:44 PST

There has been little bits of news all over the web in the past week or so. Some of it bigger than others. Like Kodak filing for bankruptcy. It is sad to see a company which was actually rather innovative – after all they practically invented digital photography – fall because it was too scared to cannibalise itself in a time where their film products ruled the roost. Sad thing is, they could have owned the digital market and still had a profitable film business it seems. Read on for more on this and other stories.

Kodak

PetaPixel reported toward the end of last week (quoting Bloomberg) that Kodak’s filing for bankruptcy is just another step in the CEO’s plan to sell off the photographic division and stick to inkjet printing. What is interesting about the report is that Kodak claim their film business (both for stills and cinematography) is still profitable. Get the story here.

Minox

It was the the brand whose cameras instantly made photographers think of being a spy. Everything about the tiny silver cameras made by Minox was small, from the film to the enlarger. Sadly Minox has never really found it’s feet in the digital era. At CES the company told Amateur Photographer magazine in the UK that they would be leaving the compact digital camera space due – in part – to the growing use and quality of cameras in smart phones. Shortly after that report they came out with a statement to say that they were not getting out of digital cameras completely but would focus on niche markets. See what you make out of it. The first report can be found here and the damage control statement here.

Sony

Sony seems to have been the fastest adopter of the Backlit CMOS sensors in the compact camera and mobile phone space (at very least they were the most verbal about it). Now the company as announced a new design that will allow them to make the sensors more cost effective and compact which could mean fitting bigger sensors in the same space the old design take. This could be very good news for mobile phones in particular. Engadget have a report explaining the technology a bit more and also video showing the HDR video capability that the new sensors should be able to offer as well. Check it out here.

Canon

Being slightly overshadowed at the moment by pictures apparently of the EOS 5D Mk II replacement in the wild (Kenyan safari in fact) is the news that Canon have patented a large, backlit CMOS sensor for APS-C and Full Frame. This could be a big step forward for them in the noise level race. I wonder what has prohibited bigger sensors using Backlit CMOS before? Anyway, you can find more about this story here at 1001 Noisy Cameras.

Olympus

The last story is that Olympus may be looking to Sony for help following the financial miss management discoveries over the last couple of months that has hammered the company’s share price on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. It will be interesting to see what happens though reports are that we won’t have to wait long. Seems there could be a press release as early as next week. See Engadget’s view here.

One Week Left to Win in our Reader Survey

Tristan - Founder — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:00:23 PST

There is just one week left for you to complete our Reader Survey and stand a chance to win a Vanguard Heralder 38 camera bag. Be sure to complete the survey at the link here. What are you waiting for.