Panasonic announces Lumix DMC-TS 3 rugged compact

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Panasonic has announced the Lumix DMC-TS3 rugged compact camera (known as the FT3 in Europe), with built-in GPS, altimeter, barometer and a compass. It sports a new body design and and better waterproofing upto depths of 12m as against 10m of its predecessor the TS2. Like the TS2 it is also dustproof, shockproof against a drop of up to 2m, and freezeproof down to -10?C. The 12MP CCD-based camera with a 2.7 inch LCD and 28-128mm equiv. lens features 1080i60 HD movies (from 30p sensor output) and comes with the company's latest 3D photo mode.

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Press Release:

New LUMIX TS3 is Waterproof*1, Shockproof*2, Freezeproof, Dustproof*1, and Adds Full-HD Video Recording, a New 3D Photo Mode & Easy Facebook and YouTube Uploads

SECAUCUS, NJ (January 25, 2011) – Panasonic today introduces the LUMIX DMC-TS3, specifically designed for active users who want to capture high-quality photos and 1920 x 1080 full-High Definition videos, incorporating a powerful rugged design and new outdoor-friendly features, such as a built-in GPS function, a compass, altimeter and barometer.  The new 12.1-megapixel LUMIX TS3 further strengthens its toughness, when compared to its LUMIX TS2 predecessor,  and is now waterproof to approximately 40 feet (12m)*1; shockproof to approximately 6.6 feet (2m) *2; freezeproof to 14?F (-10 degrees C); and dustproof*1.

The Panasonic LUMIX TS3 also features the new Panasonic 3D Photo mode, which produces a realistic 3D photo by taking 20 consecutive photos and overlays the two best to create a 3D image that can then be played on a Panasonic VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of 3D images is compatible with MPO, and can also be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as a televisions, digital photo frames and printers.  Panasonic also adds the LUMIX Image Uploader, for seamless and instant sharing via Facebook (for digital photos) or YouTube (for videos). Users can checkmark the photo or video files they want to share, connect it to a PC with the included USB cable or by inserting the SD Memory Card directly into the PC’s SD Card slot, and then the uploading automatically launches with an easy-to-follow menu option.

“The LUMIX TS3 is Panasonic’s ‘take anywhere’ digital camera – whether it is for carefree, everyday shooting with its easy-to-use features, high-quality lens and video capabilities, or for the active user who will appreciate the rugged design in any season – for activities such as hiking, skiing, camping, diving, snorkeling,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Last year’s LUMIX TS2 was a highly-regarded rugged camera and with the TS3, we just built on its success with new features, like GPS, a compass, altimeter and barometer, making this the ultimate camera for the outdoor user.”

The Panasonic LUMIX TS3 features a 28mm wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, complete with a folded optics design. With an optical zoom up to 4.6x, the LUMIX TS3 works even while shooting video – giving the user the flexibility for a variety of different scenes – especially underwater, where movement is often restricted and the angle of view becomes important for composing shots.  Thanks to the newly incorporated Intelligent Resolution technology, the Intelligent Zoom is available and extends the zoom to 6x equivalent.

Empowered by a newly developed 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor, the LUMIX TS3 is compatible with high-speed, large-capacity signal processing required for 1920 x 1080 full-HD AVCHD video recording and high speed continuous shooting. The advanced image processor, the Venus Engine FHD, powers Panasonic’s Intelligent Resolution and the Sonic Speed AF, allows for a shutter release time lag as short as approximately 0.005 second.

Beyond full-HD video recording capabilities, LUMIX TS3 excels in shooting videos with a Dolby? Digital Creator so audio quality is also high.  The built-in LED light greatly supports shooting in dark situations. The LUMIX TS3 also features a 2.7-inch, 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD screen with wide-viewing angle and Anti-Reflection coating.

Panasonic’s iA Mode, a suite of technologies that engage automatically, has evolved for more powerful image stabilization while video recording and taking still photos with Active Mode which boosts POWER OIS to excel in suppressing blur when recording videos at wide angle while walking. Other features of iA include: POWER OIS, Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. With iA, taking beautiful photos is possible for users at any skill level. In addition, the Intelligent Resolution technology is always activated in the iA mode, which helps produce even clearer photos by precisely performing signal processing pixel by pixel to help ensure clear and sharp images.

The newly-integrated GPS function, shows the name of the Country/Region, State/Prov./County, County/Township, City/Town/Village and Landmark by using the internal data to give users details on where the photos or videos were taken.  The area information covers 203 countries or regions for global users. Plus, more than 1,000,000 landmarks over 78 countries or regions are in the database. Using the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.1 HD Lite Edition, photos and videos can be searched by location and names. The LUMIX TS3 also features an internal clock that automatically adjusts to the local time when GPS is enabled – a handy feature for travelers.

The LUMIX TS3 will be available in March 2011 and pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping date. The LUMIX TS3 will be available in red, orange, silver, and blue.

*1 Waterproof/dustproof performance complies with the “IPX8” and “IP6X” ratings. Provided the care and maintenance guidelines described in this document are strictly followed, this camera can operate underwater, to a depth not exceeding 12 m for a time not exceeding 60 minutes. This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.
*2 Anti-shock performance complies with “MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock” of the U.S. Defense Department, which specifies performing drop tests from a height of 122 cm, at 26 orientations (8 corners, 12 ridges, 6 faces) using 5 sets of devices, and passing the 26 orientation drops within 5 devices. (If failure occurs during the test, a new set is used to pass the drop orientation test within a total of 5 devices). The camera has cleared a drop test from a height of 2 m onto 3 cm thick plywood. In most cases this camera should not sustain any damage if dropped from a height not exceeding 2 m. This drop test was passed. (Disregarding appearance change such as loss of paint or distortion of the part where drop impact is applied). This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.

Sensor

• 1/2.33" Type CCD
• 12.5 million total pixels
• 12.1 million effective pixels
• Primary colour filter (RGB)

Image sizes

4:3 Aspect Ratio:
• 4000 x 3000(12M)
• 3264 x 2448 (8M)
• 2560 x 1920(5M)
• 2048 x 1536 (3M)
• 1600 x 1200 (2M)
• 640 x 480 (0.3M)

3:2 Aspect Ratio
• 4000 x 2672 (10.5M)
• 3264 x 2176 (7M)
• 2560 x 1712 (4.5M)
• 2048 x 1360 (2.5M)
• 640 x 424 (0.3M)

16:9 Aspect Ratio:
• 4000 x 2248 (9M)
• 3264 x 1840 (6M)
• 2560 x 1440 (3.5M)
• 1920 x 1080 (2M)
• 640 x 360 (0.2M)

1:1 Aspect Ratio:
• 2992 x 2992 (9M)
• 2448 x 2448 (6M)
• 1920 x 1920 (3.5M)
• 1536 x 1536 (2.5M)
• 480 x 480 (0.2M)

Movie clips

• Full HD: 1920 x 1080 pixels, 60i (Sensor output is 30p)
(FSH:17Mbps, GFS:17Mbps/ AVCHD)
• HD Movie: 1280 x 720 pixels, 60p (Sensor output is 30p)
(GS:17Mbps, SH:17Mbps/ AVCHD )
• HD Movie: 1280 x 720 pixels, 30fps Motion Jpeg
• VGA: 640 x 480 pixels, 30fps (Motion JPEG)
• QVGA: 320 x 240 pixels, 30 fps (Motion JPEG)

File formats• JPEG( Exif 2.3)
• 3D Image: MPO
• AVCHD, QuickTime Motion JPEG Lens• 4.6x Optical zoom
• 28-128mm (35mm equiv.)
• f = 4.9-22.8mm
• F3.3- 5.9
• LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR
• 10 elements in 8 groups (5 Aspherical surfaces)Image stabilizationPower O.I.S. Lens-shift stabilizationFocus

• Normal
• Macro
• Zoom Macro
• Quick AF
• AF Tracking
• Continuous AF (only for motion picture)

Focus distance• Normal: Wide / Tele 30 cm - infinity
• Macro / Intelligent AUTO/ movie recording: Wide 5 cm - infinity / Tele 30cm - infinityISO sensitivity• Auto
• i.ISO
• 100
• 200
• 400
• 800
• 1600
• High Sensitivity Mode : Auto (1600 - 6400)Shutter speed• Still :8 - 1/1300 sec
• Starry Sky Mode : 15, 30, 60secAperture• F3.3 - 5.9 (F3.3 - 10(W) / F5.9 - 18(T))
• Iris Diagram Modes• Intelligent AUTO
• Normal Picture
• Sports
• Snow
• Beach & Snorkeling
• Under Water
• SCN
• 3D PhotoScene modes Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Panorama Assist, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Handheld Night Shot, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby1, Baby2, Pet, Sunset, High sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst (Image priority, Speed priority), Flash Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Aerial, Pinhole, Film Grain, High Dynamic (standard/ art/ B&W), Photoframe

Color Mode• Standard
• Natural
• Vivid
• Black & White
• Sepia
• Cool
• Warm
• HappyWhite balance• Auto
• Daylight
• Cloudy
• Shade
• Incandescent
• White SetFlash

• Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off
• 0.3 - 5.6m (Wide/ISO Auto), 0.3 - 3.1m (Tele/ISO Auto)

LCD monitor• 2.7" TFT LCD Display, AR coat
• 230K pixels
• Power LCD mode, Auto Power LCD modeGPSYes, + Barometer, altimeter and compassConnectivity• USB 2.0 Full speed
• AV Output (NTSC/PAL)
• Micro HDMIStorage• Approximately 19MB built-in memory
• SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory CardPower• ID-Security Li-ion Battery Pack
• Charger includedDimensions104 x 64 x 27 mm
(4.07 x 2.52 x 1.04 in)

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Ricoh announces CX5 compact superzoom with hybrid AF

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Ricoh has unveiled the CX5 compact superzoom with Hybrid AF. It represents the re-introduction of an AF system that combines a distance sensor with more conventional contrast detection method to offer focus times of as little as 0.2sec regardless of focal length. Beyond this, it offers the same 10MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor, 10.7x (28-300mm equiv.) zoom lens, 920k dot 3 inch LCD and 720p HD video recording as the CX4. It's not clear how the AF system differs from the one the company used up until 2007, but it is claimed to almost double the speed of the CX4. Other new features include 'Super-Resolution' context-sensitive image processing and three additional scene modes.

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Press Release:

Offering High-speed Focus with a Hybrid AF System Compact digital camera with 10.7x optical zoom (28-300 mm)

January 26, 2011 RICOH COMPANY, LTD: (helmed by president and CEO Shiro Kondo) will be releasing its newly developed CX5 digital camera model with its wide-angle, high magnification 10.7x optical zoom (28–300 mm) lens, which has a higher autofocus speed due to the use of Ricoh's new hybrid AF system.

With the new CX5 model, AF focusing times are decreased to as low as 0.2 sec. for both wide-angle 28 mm and telephoto 300 mm, up to half as short compared to the CX4, using Ricoh's unique new hybrid AF system.

This ensures that you reliably capture the image you were waiting for, never to miss another good shot again.

Using super-resolution technology, the CX5 also allows (1) recording of images with improved resolution using the "Super-resolution" setting and (2) telephoto shooting at up to 600 mm equivalent with minimal degradation in image quality using "Super-resolution Zoom."

Furthermore, in addition to the new Cooking, Fireworks, and Continuous Golf Swing scene modes, the CX5 has improved features that make shooting photographs even more fun through the use of super-resolution zoom during Zoom Macro mode shooting and other functions.

The CX5 is an even more enhanced compact digital camera that was designed based on the concept of it being "a tool that you will find yourself wanting to use every day."

Available in three colors: Black, Silver, and Pink.

Main Features of the New CX5

High-speed autofocus using the unique hybrid AF system developed by Ricoh

Equipped with Ricoh's unique new hybrid AF system in combination with a passive AF sensor that continuously measures the distance between the camera and subject using an area sensor together with Contrast AF (a system in which the imaging elements search for the peak location for contrast on the subject and focus on that location).Enables AF focusing times to be shortened to as low as 0.2 sec. for both wide-angle 28 mm and telephoto 300 mm, up to half as short compared to the CX4 model. Ensures that you capture the image you were waiting for over the entire zoom range so that you never miss another good shot again.

Improved image resolution through use of super-resolution technology

Enables amazing photographs with high resolution to be produced using the CX5's new super-resolution technology, which discerns outlines, details, and gradations in the image automatically and processes the image based on the optimal settings for each. The level of super-resolution can be set to OFF, Weak, or Strong.

Super-resolution zoom equivalent to up to 600 mm in addition to the 10.7x 28–300 mm optical zoom

Allows a wide-angle, high-magnification 10.7x optical zoom lens to fit into a compact body with a thickness of 29.4 mm using Ricoh's unique retracting lens system. Equipped with super-resolution zoom that enables magnification of up to 2.0x. Enables telephoto shooting at up to 600 mm equivalent with minimal degradation in image quality.Enables even greater magnification of the subject from super-resolution zoom with use of digital zoom. Allows photographs to be taken with ultra-telephoto zoom at up to 2880 mm.

High-quality photography that widens the range of image expression

Offering reduced loss of detail in highlights using an output pixel interpolation algorithm residing in dedicated logic circuits in the Smooth Imaging Engine IV imaging engine to allow high-contrast scenes to be reproduced more faithfully, exactly as they appear to the naked eye. Reduces noise without affecting resolution, tone characteristics, or color using a noise reduction algorithm to process the image signal as it is output from the CMOS image sensor. Enables sophisticated variance-estimation type noise reduction processing in which the sensor image data's noise variance is analyzed and the optimum processing is done for each region when the noise reduction level is set to MAX. Equipped with a back-illuminated 10.00 million-pixel CMOS sensor. Ensures that beautiful images can be captured even in dark scenes.

14 different types of Scene Modes providing easy access to whole suites of photographic techniques specifically adapted to the subject

Comes with a new Cooking mode that is perfect for shooting photographs of food. The new Cooking mode setting enables the brightness and color tone of the scene to be adjusted while the subject is checked. Includes a new Fireworks mode that works great for taking shots of fireworks as they flash across the sky. Comes with a new Golf Swing Continuous mode that displays grid lines during shooting and playback. Perfect to use for checking your golf swing. Enables super-resolution zoom to be used in Zoom Macro mode, which optimizes the zoom position automatically to allow the subject to be shot even larger than with normal macro shooting. Allows the subject to be shot even larger without any degradation of image quality as with normal zoom.

Creative shooting modes that allow you to enjoy shooting creative images

Comes with six different types including Soft Focus, Cross Process, Toy Camera, and Miniaturize that can be selected to fit the subject and type of scene. Allows you to enjoy shooting images with a variety of effects.

High-definition 3.0-inch, 920,000-dot LCD monitor

Equipped with a large, high-definition LCD monitor that has a wide viewing angle and high contrast. With a fluorine coat to prevent soiling, a hard coat to prevent scratches, and an anti-reflection (AR) coat designed to protect the screen against dirt and damage and guarantee excellent visibility even outdoors in direct sunlight. Reproduces image colors vividly with sRGB comparison of 100% for the color reproduction range.

A wide variety of functions based on the concept of the CX5 being "a tool that you will find yourself wanting to use every day"

Equipped with new HDMI terminals. Allows high-definition (HD) movies with a frame size of 1280 x 720 pixels to be viewed on an HD TV using an HDMI cable (sold separately). Comes equipped with macro shooting functions that allow you to get as close to the subject as 1 cm for wide-angle and 28 cm for telephoto. Equivalent to 31 mm for 35-mm film equivalents.Enables high-speed continuous shooting at speeds of up to approx. 5 frames/sec. • Equipped with Scene Auto Mode, which automatically switches to the optimal shooting settings for the scene when the camera is merely pointed at a scene. Comes with Subject-tracking AF, which continuously tracks and focuses on the subject automatically. The CX5 is compatible with Eye-Fi cards (X2 Series), SD memory cards with built-in wireless LAN functionality, which enables captured images to be transferred wirelessly to a computer or online image sharing service automatically.  An icon will appear while an Eye-Fi card is being used to display the communications status.
Sensor• 1/2.3" Type CMOS
• 10.00 million effective pixels
• 10.60 total pixels
Image sizes• 3648 x 2736
• 3648 x 2432
• 2736 x 2736
• 3648 x 2048
• 2592 x 1944
• 2048 x 1536
• 1728 x 1296 (Multi-Picture only)
• 1280 x 960
• 640 x 480 Movie clips• 1280 x 720
• 640 x 480
• 320 x 240
File formats• JPEG (Exif v2.3)
• CIPA DC-007-2009 Multi-Picture Format
• AVI (Open DML Motion JPEG Format compliant)
• WAVE (Sound Files)Lens• 28 - 300mm (35mm equiv)
With Step Zoom set: 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 105mm, 135mm, 200mm, and 300mm
• f = 4.9-52.5mm
• 10.7x optical zoom
• F3.5-5.6
• Lens Construction: 10 elements in 7 groups (aspheric lens: 4 elements and 5 surfaces)FocusContrast AF method with AF auxiliary light
• Multi
• Spot
• Face-priority
• Multi

Contrast AF method
• Subject-tracking AF
• Multi-target AF

Fixed focus method
• Manual Focus
• Snap

Metering• Multi (256 segments)
• Centre Weighted Light Metering
• SpotISO sensitivity• Auto
• ISO 80
• ISO 100
• ISO 200
• ISO 400
• ISO 800
• ISO 1600
• ISO 3200Exposure compensation+/- 2EV in 1/3 stop incrementsShutter speed• 8 sec-1/1200 sec
• Movie : 1/30 - 1/2000 sec. Shooting modes • Auto
• Movie
• Scene auto
• Scene
• My Settings
• Continuous mode
• Creative shooting modes
Scene modes• Portrait
• Discreet
• Night. Portrait
• Night Landscape
• Multi-shot
• Sports
• Landscape
• Zoom Macro
• Pets
• Skew Correct
• High Sensitivity
• Text
• Fireworks
• Cooking
• Golf Swing Continuous ModeCreative shooting modes• Dynamic Range
• Double Shot
• Miniaturize
• High Contrast B&W
• Soft Focus
• Cross Process
• Toy CameraWhite balance• Auto
• Multi-Pattern
• Outdoors
• Cloudy
• Incandescent
• Incandescent 2
• Fluorescent
• Manual
• White Balance BracketFlash• Auto, Red-eye-Reduction, Flash On, Slow Synchro, Flash Off
• Range : Approx. 20 cm - 4.0 m (Wide), approx. 28 cm -3.0m (Telephoto)
• Flash Compensation (+/-2.0EV (1/3EV Steps)Connectivity• USB Hi-Speed
• Micro HDMI
• AV out (PAL / NTSC switchable) Storage• Internal memory 40MB
• SD, SDHC

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Phase one Announces IQ series digital backs

Phase one has released IQ180, IQ160 and IQ140 medium format digital camera backs with 80, 40 and 60.5 megapixel CCD sensors, respectively. All three feature 3.2 supports "multi-touch rear the company describes as having 1.15 megapixel resolution (although it seems more similar to what would normally be called 1.15 million points). The IQ180 also has a USB 3.0 faster image transfer and a FireWire 800 connection for faster tethered shooting. All three will be available from April 2011 at suggested retail price starting at $ 16,990 € 21,990/.

Press release:

Designed for maximum creative freedom

Copenhagen, January 24, 2011 — Phase One, a supplier of equipment pro photography world leader, today announced a bold new generation of medium format digital camera backs. Phase one IQ180, IQ160 and IQ140 digital camera supports the feature maximum resolutions of 80, 60 and 40 high quality Megapixels respectively. This series sets new standards for performance and management of medium format camera system.

Phase one IQ180 captures full-frame 80 megapixels resolution, with a dynamic range of 12.5 f-stop. Is the first product of its kind to feature a connection AFG3252, facilitating the transfer of images faster in the future. The IQ180 also offers a FireWire 800 connection, ensuring the speed of the fastest possible acquisition related today. For shooting untethered, new interface memory card digital back IQ180 is so fast that eliminates buffering delays, support continuous shooting until the card is filled.

"I'm amazed by the quality of the image, I got it out of the box ' with the IQ180 of a phase phase one 645DF camera. You can create images with more detail and see unique compared with any other camera out there. Helps me to develop unique styles to me, "said Jens Honore photographer lifestyle. (Web: http://www.jenshonore.com/)

Type a retina designed just 3.2 inch multi touch Features, 1.15 megapixel resolution, providing the highest resolution and largest exhibition of any SLR type cameras available today. This means that very fine details can be checked immediately during a photo shoot--for example, using unique Focus form of phase one and instant zoom feature. Automatic adjustment of brightness and contrast ensures that the display is visible in various lighting conditions.

Context sensitive controls, such as instant zoom enables a photographer to magnify an image by using only one finger. Small histograms and highlight warnings can be enlarged to full screen view with a simple touch. The new form of fire available during preview allows you to validate the depth of field and focus the image. View the wide format allows for a full image 4: 3 aspect ratio at VGA resolution next to the histogram, highlight warning, form of fire, EXIF data and touch controls.  This touch screen display is complemented by intuitive navigation of 4 buttons of phase one.

"The new high resolution multi touch screen with its intuitive controls is a perfect tool for quality control of image right at the time of acquisition. With this display quality, can I leave my laptop at home and, ultimately, this makes it easier, my job, "said architectural photographer, Eugeni Pons. (Web: http://www.eugeni-pons.com/)

Phase one sensor + technology patent, incorporated in phase one IQ180, supports a wide variety of shooting conditions. One can capture images with megapixel resolution, a full 80 or using sensor + mode, switch instantly to capture images with a resolution of 8 megapixels to four times higher sensitivity up to ISO 3200. This flexibility is very useful in low light conditions; There is no need to slow down to change the cameras, and there is no clipping or lens. One gets the maximum wide-angle lens performance, higher levels of ISO and a faster workflow.

According to the fashion photographer Stefan Kapfer from Trostberg, "the new IQ180 meets my work very well. Can I use the full 80 megapixel resolution for my shots of high-end fashion, and 8 megapixel image sensor technology that get by + give me a workflow faster when production catalogue. It's really two perfect solutions in a single system. " (Web: http://www.stefankapfer.de/)

Compatibility is improved IQ among digital backs and camera body phase one 645DF. Now, the power state of the digital back can be controlled directly from the 645DF camera. An integrated battery charger ensures that the battery is charged while one is shooting tethered, offering more shooting versatility.

Capture one 6
Capture one 6 Backup has been optimized for shooting with a digital phase IQ. Together with the IQ series backs this professional RAW converter and image editing software will deliver the highest image quality in the world with excellent color and detail.  The software includes all the tools you need to capture, organize, edit, share and print images for an efficient workflow.

Reliability and service
Professional photographers have the IQ of a phase digital backs to get their jobs. Their highly durable build quality has been designed and tested to work in the toughest environments, including humidity, extreme heat and cold.

All Phase One products are worth long-term investment with superior service. For professionals, this protection is invaluable, especially when shooting in familiar situations and locations worldwide.

Various service levels are available for phase one digital backs IQ. For example, an option of added value includes a lifetime warranty-time (5 years), a unit on loan free of charge during the repair and other options. Phase one provides support 24 hours 365 days delivered online and supported by dedicated partners and a global support team.

For a complete list of all the new phase one digital Back features IQ, including camera bodies are supported, see www.phaseone.com/iq

The availability and prices
Phase one IQ180 should be available end of April 2011. Phase one IQ160 and IQ140 are expected to be available end of May 2011. The products can be ordered now through a phase of photography professional partners worldwide: www.phaseone.com/partners

Prices for digital backs new start 21990 6,532 EUR/USD. Interesting upgrade offers are available for all photographers to step one.

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Nik Software announces Silver Efex Pro 2

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Nik Software has released version 2 of its Silver Efex Pro for black and white conversion plug-in for Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and Apple Aperture. The upgraded version includes a history palette and better control for adjusting detail, contrast, and tonality. It is available from February 2011 at a suggested retail price of $ 199.95 or $ 99.95 to version one users.

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Press Release:

New and more powerful features make it easier than ever to create stunning black and white images

San Diego, CA – January 17, 2011 – Nik Software (www.niksoftware.com) announces today the Silver Efex Pro 2, a major upgrade to its award-winning Silver Efex Pro software, widely regarded by photographers as the leading black-and-white software solution on the market today. Silver Efex Pro 2 introduces new features that offer even more control over detail, contrast, and tonality, making it easier than ever to transform color photographs into stunning black and white images. Silver Efex Pro 2 includes new features such as the History Browser, Dynamic Brightness Blacks, Amplify, Amplify Whites, Soft Contrast, Fine Structure, Image Borders, and selective colorization, as well as a variety of speed and quality improvements. The new features of Silver Efex Pro 2, combined with Nik Software's award-winning U Point ? technology, will continue to evolve black-and-white photography. To learn why Silver Efex Pro is the leading black-and-white imaging software users can watch training videos, download a free trial, and join live online training sessions at www.niksoftware.com/silverefexpro.

"Silver Efex Pro 2 has been created to provide photographers with the world's best black and white conversion software enabling them to utilize new and powerful capabilities that were not available in the traditional darkroom," said Michael j. Slater, President and CEO of Nik Software.

Ideal for any photographer passionate about black and white photography, Silver Efex Pro 2 features a wide variety of innovative enhancements to ensure the highest quality results. Silver Efex Pro includes unique features and functions, including specially designed algorithms for black and white photography, a unique all-in-one workflow, and the ability to fine-tune images with precise selective adjustments powered by U Point technology.

Nik Software's proprietary U Point technology provides revolutionary selective editing by enabling photographers to precisely make detail, contrast, and tonality enhancements without the need for complicated selections or layer masks. Enhancements are automatically blended throughout an image for natural results. Finishing adjustments such as vignette controls, toning, burn edges and borders make it possible to easily accomplish everything needed for amazing black and white images.

Silver Efex Pro 2 is the first Nik Software product to take full advantage of the latest graphics processing units (GPUs). Nik Software has worked closely with NVIDIA Corporation and has incorporated the GPU-based image rendering to offer the fastest, most efficient processing on systems equipped with dedicated GPU processors.

"We are extremely excited that Nik Software's Silver Efex Pro 2 taps into the power of the many cores available on GeForce GPUs to deliver multiples of performance beyond the CPU alone" said David Ragones, Director of Product Marketing, NVIDIA.  "Photo enthusiasts can now take advantage of all the available horsepower in their computers to produce beautiful black and white images."

Key Features

NewHistory Browser facilitates intuitive comparison of previous edits and different New looks Dynamic Brightness enables adaptive brightening adjustments for different areas in the New image Amplify Blacks and Whites increases Amplify the presence of highlights and shadows "adaptively throughout the image, creating a unique contrast t effec New Visual Presets categorized by photographic style provide great, single-click starting points, which can be edited and shared New with others Soft Contrast applies contrast intelligently, based on the image details, creating a less harsh contrast and a stylized New mood End Structure brings out even the smallest details and textures resulting in more visible image detail without creating an over- sharpened look New Image Borders use organic image elements to create unique and completely random borders, giving classic darkroom-style edges a modern look with New endless possibilities Selective colorization easily adds color elements back into images utilizing U Point technology to precisely New select objects GPU Processing takes full advantage of the processors found on advanced display adapters providing even faster performance

Pricing and Availability
Silver Efex Pro 2 will be available in February 2011 directly from Nik Software (www.niksoftware.com), through specialty camera retailers, and through online and national resellers. A list of Nik Software resellers may be found at www.niksoftware.com/resellers.

The suggested retail price of Silver Efex Pro 2 is $ 199.95.  Upgrades from the first version are $ 99.95. Customers who purchased Silver Efex Pro or a Complete Collection bundle after December 6, 2010 are eligible for a free upgrade. To pre-order Silver Efex Pro 2, users can visit www.niksoftware.com/silverefexpro.

Silver Efex Pro 2 installs as a 32-bit and 64-bit plug-in for Adobe ? Photoshop ? CS4 or later, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom ? 2.6 or later (Windows and Macintosh) or Apple ? Aperture ? 2.1.4 or later (Macintosh). For more information about Silver Efex Pro 2, including a video tutorial and a free 15-day fully functional trial version, please visit: www.niksoftware.com/silverefexpro.

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Samsung announces ST30 10MP ultra-compact

Samsung has announced the ultra-compact ST30 digital camera. The 10 .1MP camera with 3 x zoom starting at a focal length equivalent to usefully wide 28 mm. The camera is, says the company, about the size of an average mobile phone, giving a good idea who they aimed the camera. It has all standard features such as Smart Auto mode and perfect portrait mode in hopes budget and comes with a list price of $ 99.95.

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Press release:

Samsung innovation Creates line slim and ultra-compact design to suit any occasion

SEOUL, Korea – January 19, 2011 –Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a world leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, announced today the launch of the new ultra compact camera, the ST30. The most recent launch of Samsung strengthens its position as world leader in the design-led innovation to meet customer needs. Attractive and ultra compact model incorporates the key benefits of technology to capture great images wherever you go.

ST30 's small size and compact design means it is the perfect camera to fall into your bag or via slip into jeans pocket. With compact dimensions of ST30, about the size of a mobile phone camera is the ideal medium to use when the newest item in part or to catch up with friends. The ST30 with unique modern design finished with a metal body and whatever the colour of your outfit to party, ST30 has a corresponding color.

The ST30 offers great value, combining an attractive design with a feature set as the market leader, providing great moving images. The ultra-compact model really Pack a punch, with Smart Auto focus, a system, a 28 mm lens and 3 x optical zoom power, charging internal battery all contained within the body of fun-sized camera. Additional image stabilization provides real value to your camera experience, preventing even the tiniest shake, resulting in sharp images, no matter what your environment. Lens capability means that users can get more enjoyable moments in the frame of the party while delivering a more profound and advanced sensor 10.1 Megapixels offers sharp, crisp detail to make your images stand out from the crowd. The intelligent auto focus means that the camera captures automatically the perfect shot, so you never miss an important moment during any social gathering.

"We know that not everyone wants a compact size camera generally and ultra compact body ST30 means that you can do so that the camera experience a part of every aspect of your life, with a color to match every mood," said Mr. Hyunho Chung, Executive Vice President and head of the Digital Imaging Business, Samsung Electronics. "The small size means ST30 is the ultimate in portability and can fit in small bags and taken anywhere. It is further proof of our commitment to being at the vanguard in the creation of cameras that are not only fashionable and fun, but they offer a high level of usability and quality of the image ".

Technology to prevent camera shake
If you're trying to get to dance or acquisition of friends in motion, digital stabilization system stops ST30 tremble even the smallest and lets you take photos, clear images every time.

The perfect portrait at your fingertips through the advanced face detection technology
The ST30 helps ensure the perfect images are captured with the latest technology, face detection, red-eye correction and also the latest technology that detects the face flashing, so if it is bright lights or the Sun disco you can ensure that your eyes are open and ready for the perfect shot. The ST30 also evens out skin tone, Erases the imperfections and removes the dark circles, so you can check the quality of your appearance in any situation.

• 3 x Zoom Lens
• 28 mm equivalent wideangleAdditional Car Smart features •
• Perfect portrait system
• Face Detection, Blink Detection, Smile Shot, beauty Shot, Self Portrait
• Smart Album
• Function Description
• Photos style selector Post comment Email print share news discussion: del.icio.us Digg Twitter Facebook

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Leica announces Oskar Barnack Award 2011

International photo contest of Leica Oskar Barnack Award 2011 will be open for entries from 15 January with a first prize worth € 14,500 (~ $ 19,000). This year the prize for the winner will receive a M9 rangefinder and lens over a € 5,000 prize money offered last year. To enter, participants must submit a series of ten to twelve images expressing ' the interaction between humans and the environment '. There is also a Newcomer award open to photographers under 25. Submissions are open until 15 March 2011.

Click here for more information and to participate in the contest

Press release:

Solms, Germany (12 January 2011)-Leica Camera AG invites photographers to submit entries for the ' Leica Oskar Barnack Award, an international photography contest. Photographers wishing to participate can submit their entries online by January 15, 2011 to March 1, 2011 at www.leica-oskar-barnack-preis.de. This year, the value of the awards competition has significantly increased, with the winner receives their own piece of history of Leica.

For the first time, the winner of ' Leica Oskar Barnack Award will receive a camera Leica M9 and lens 9500 euro (about $ 12,300), in addition to a cash prize of 5,000 euros (about $ 6500). For the ' Newcomer Award, open to all photographers (would-be) aged 25 and under, the prize is also increased. The winner will receive a Leica M9 camera and a lens.

Conditions of entry of competition: an international jury will assign the ' Leica Oskar Barnack Award '/' leica Oskar barnack Newcomer Award ' for photographers which powers infallible observation capture and express the relationship between humans and the environment in graphical form in a sequence of images up to 12. Observations of entry must be a self-contained series of images that the photographer collects and the interaction between humans and the environment with acute vision and contemporary visual style – creative, innovative and discreet.

The competition is a Memorial of Oskar Barnack (1879-1936), the inventor of the Leica. From 1914 on, has increasingly used the prototype camera that has developed, today known as the Ur-Leica, photography. The history of Photojournalism is closely linked to its invention, since 1925, the Leica compact cameras and easily transported were instrumental in enabling entirely new expressive forms of photography.

The terms and conditions of entry can be downloaded at www.leica-oskar-barnack-preis.de.

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SanDisk announces faster, high-capacity CF card in the world

Pre-CES 2011: SanDisk unveiled the 128 GB Extreme Pro CompactFlash card high capacity the world faster with 100 MB/s write speed. The card is designed for cameras with recording video in full HD up to 50Mbps bitrate and 4: 2: 2 color sampling, as well as Hi-full resolution continuous shooting speed. The paper is available for pre-order from the company's Web site at a suggested retail price of $ 1,499.99.

Press release:

SanDisk Extreme ? Pro ? CompactFlash ? Card offers an unprecedented combination of speed and memory-up to 100 MB/sec write speed and safe 128 GB

Consumer Electronics Show, Las Vegas, January, 2011--SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK), a global leader in flash memory cards, announced today the CompactFlash card ? high capacity world's fastest. Last milestone in the long history of SanDisk's industry-leading products, card SanDisk Extreme ? Pro ? CompactFlash ? offers 128 gigabytes (GB) * 1 storage and up to 100 megabytes per second (MB/sec) * 2 write speed. Power Core ? controllers and interface UDMA-7, the card delivers the performance required by high-end DSLR cameras.

"No other product on the market can match the combination of our new paper speed and capacity of storage," said Susan Park, Director, product marketing, SanDisk. "Constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation in flash, we are able to develop advanced products not found elsewhere."

With a feature set optimized for professional photographers and videographers, the 128 GB SanDisk Extreme Pro CompactFlash card is ideal for applications that require Full HD imaging * 3, 1920 x 1080 resolution, up to 50 Mbps bit rate and 4: 2: 2 color sampling. Unprecedented combination of speed and storage tab enables you to capture multiple frames when shooting in continuous burst mode and allows their photographers to record Full HD video in high quality.

write speeds up to 100 MB/sec allows shorter waiting times and faster continuous burst shooting.video performance Guarantee * 4 allows recording at speeds of 20 MB/sec sustained write superior Full HD video.Aoffers 128 GB capacity more room to capture RAW and JPEG photo, sequential bursts, and even Full HD 3D video content.SanDisk Power Core controller ? proprietary distributes data across the paper more efficiently, and UDMA-7 interface allows the maximum data transfer between the card and the camera.quality assurance of Best-in-class offers photographers peace of mind knowing that the Charter is underpinned by rigorous stress, shock, vibration, humidity and moisture test procedures and a lifetime limited warranty * 5. The card has RTV silicone coating for added protection.

The availability and prices
The 128 GB SanDisk Extreme Pro CompactFlash card is now available for preorder at www.sandisk.com and will be available from retailers worldwide later in Q1 2011. The card carries a suggested retail price of $ 1,499.99.

* 1 1 gigabyte (GB) = 1 billion bytes.
* 2 up to 100 MB/sec write speed; lower read speed. Based on SanDisk internal testing; performance will vary depending on the host device. 1 MB = 1 million bytes. X = 150 KB/sec.
* 3 That vary in full HD (1920X1080X30fps), HD and 3D video support based on the host device, file size, resolution, bit rate, compression, content and other factors. See/HD
* Video performance guarantee to ensure 4 enabled writing speed supported minimum Full HD video recording at 20 ? MB/sec. 1 megabyte (MB) = 1 million bytes.
* 5 30 years warranty in Germany & regions not recognizing limited duration.

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