NIKON DOUBLE GOLD MEDALLIST AT DIWA AWARDS !

Nikon is delighted to have picked up two DIWA gold awards for its Nikon D60 and Nikon D300 cameras; an accolade that underpins Nikon’s leadership position in this area and recognises the company’s continued pursuit of excellence.

DIWA, or Digital Imaging Websites Association, is an international network of independent websites focusing on digital imaging. Its awards are chosen by professional photography websites and are based on unique test samples and evaluations of more than 200 functions and features in a standardised testing scoreboard. Nikon was awarded Gold in the categories Semi-Professional D-SLR (Nikon D300) and Consumer D-SLR (Nikon D60).

Birgitta Wetterlind, Marketing Communications Manager at Nikon Europe comments: “This has been another superb year for Nikon. With awards from TIPA, EISA and now DIWA, these additional Gold Awards confirm that our commitment to providing the best imaging and optical technologies in the photography business is paying off.”

Best Consumer D-SLR: the Nikon D60
“The Nikon D60 receives its gold award for excellent image quality, ergonomic design and useful features. Its 10MP high-quality image sensor, outstanding image processing performance and an innovative and effective anti-dust system delivers a powerful combination and makes the D60 a striking consumer system camera. In addition, the camera is equipped with active D-Lighting and Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED processor technology, enabling image processing on a high level for optimum results,” said DIWA.

Best Semi-Professional D-SLR: the Nikon D300
DIWA: “Thanks to excellent ergonomics, top specified functions, and high-quality innovative technologies, the Nikon D300 meets the demands of both professionals and serious amateurs. A first class 12MP CMOS sensor is supported by a powerful EXPEED processor, a new CAM3500DX AF sensor, 14-bit A/D converter, wide sensitivity range including ISO 6400, all working in perfect harmony for unsurpassed image quality and camera performance. To complete the package, the Nikon D300 is equipped with a high resolution 3-inch Live View monitor.”

Test Manager of DIWA Labs, Kai Thon, comments: “For many years, Nikon have been an industry leader in technological developments, but in recent months they have displayed elevations larger than ever, most of them included in models like the D60 and the D300. Computer-based analytic test results from our sophisticated DIWA Labs and expert reviews from DIWA member websites unanimously conclude that both models are highly competitive in either market segment.”

Nikon continues to develop excellent products in its ambition to be the manufacturer and partner of choice for photographers at all levels.

Want to buy a Nikon this festive period? Get some cash back for the January sales!

NIKON ANNOUNCES WINTER CASHBACK OFFER

Nikon UK is pleased to announce a new cashback promotion offering customers up to £50 back on purchases of Nikon D60 digital SLR camera kits.

The cash back offer is available on all lens combinations purchased between 17th November and 18th January 2009 (inclusive). Details about kit combinations and cashback values are outlined below.

Kit                                 Cash back available       Deadline for claims
D60 single lens kit    £30 / €40                        2nd March 2009
D60 twin lens kit       £50 / €65                        2nd March 2009

More information about the cashback offer and details about how to submit a claim can be found at www.nikon.co.uk/cashback.

All claims must be made by 2nd March 2009 in order to qualify. Terms and conditions apply.

News of a Canon orientated event for those interested:

 Park Cameras and Canon EOS 5D Mk II Event

With the imminent arrival of the much-anticipated EOS 5D Mk II Park Cameras, in partnership with Canon UK, is able to announce a truly unique photographic event taking place at their newly opened Showroom in Burgess Hill, West Sussex.

On Wednesday 3rd December photo enthusiasts visiting Park Cameras will not only have the chance to purchase and own one of the first EOS 5D Mk II’s in the UK* but also take advantage of an exclusive instore event focusing on this long-awaited model.

During the course of the day, Canon’s Professional Centre Team will descend upon Park Cameras to promote the virtues of both the EOS 5D Mk II and EOS 50D. Our brand new ‘Touch and Try’ Showroom will showcase both models along with dozens of lenses and accessories accompanied by the expert advice of the Professional Centre Team.

Taking centre stage will be two talks, held in conjunction with Park Cameras’ School of Photography, focusing on both models delivered by the respected photographer, David Newton. David, with the assistance of model Claire Guest, will take delegates through both cameras, focusing especially on the added features and benefits of the EOS 5D Mk II, highlighting exactly why Canon’s latest DSLR offering has been well worth the wait.

In addition, members of Canon’s European Professional Team will also be on hand to conduct Q+A sessions throughout the day on both the EOS 5D Mk II and EOS 50D, ensuring that this event lives up to its unique billing. Please click here for more information on this event.

For more information please visit the Park Cameras training pages, www.ParkCameras.com/Training or call a member of the Park Cameras sales team on 01444 23 70 70.

New set of lenses for the Lensbaby family have been announced by distributor Intro2020:

Lensbaby Introduces New Line of Lenses for Creative Photography

Three new lenses - The Composer^TM, The Muse^TM, and
The Control Freak^TM - feature the Lensbaby Optic Swap System

Three new Lensbaby lenses - The Composer^TM, The Muse^TM and The Control Freak^TM, - make up the new line of Lensbaby products.  Each features the new Lensbaby Optic Swap system. The new Muse and the new Control Freak replace the current Lensbaby lenses, which will be phased out immediately.

All Lensbaby lenses provide photographers with a new way to control depth of field by bringing one area of a photo into sharpest focus with that Sweet Spot^TM surrounded by graduated blur. By bending the Lensbaby lens, the photographer moves the sharp area around the photo for customized creative effects.

The new Composer retains its position after being bent and is easy to use even with one hand.  Photographers can simply tilt the lens to a desired angle and then focus with a barrel focusing ring.  The Composer stays in the desired bent position without requiring a locking mechanism and features the new Lensbaby Optic Swap System.  The Composer’s unique barrel focusing ring automatically dampens the movement of the optic (requiring greater rotation to move the optic in and out) as you approach infinity, making it easer to focus on subjects from 10 feet to infinity.

The Muse replaces the Original Lensbaby and Lensbaby 2.0 lenses while being very similar in appearance and functionality. Photographers will still focus by compressing the lens and move the sweet spot by bending the flexible lens tubing.  The key update for the Muse is its new Lensbaby Optic Swap System.

The Control Freak updates the Lensbaby 3G by adding the Lensbaby Optic Swap System.  With The Control Freak, photographers compress to focus, bend to move the sweet spot, and then push a button to lock the lens in place.  Once locked, photographers can adjust the fine focus with a barrel focusing ring and fine tune the tilt by rotating its three metal posts.

All three lenses - the Composer, Muse, and Control Freak - feature the Lensbaby Optic Swap System and will come complete with one optic installed. Additional optics are available as optional accessories.  When a photographer wants to change the optic in their Lensbaby, they will simply pop the optic out and drop in a different optic using an Optic Swap Tool supplied with the new optic.  Each optic has different features and image qualities, allowing photographers to choose the look that fits their creative style.

The Lensbaby Optic Swap System will include four interchangeable optic options:

• Double Glass: A 50mm multi-coated optical glass.
• Single Glass: a 50 mm, updated, uncoated optical glass singlet. At f/2, the Single Glass Optic is one full stop brighter (2x as bright) than the previous Original Lensbaby Optic.
• Plastic: a 50 mm f/2 plastic singlet that maximizes blur and diffusion in a dreamy way that Holga^TM and Diana^TM camera lovers will especially appreciate.
• The Pinhole/Zone plate: an optic cup with an f/177 aperture hole to allow for pinhole photography and an f/19 Zone plate opening. Users can slide a toggle inside the optic to change to back and forth between Pinhole and Zone plate mode, allowing further artistic exploration.

The Composer - Smooth and Precise
Suggested retail price £164.99

• Complete with the Double Glass optic installed (a multi-coated optical glass doublet)
• Features the Lensbaby Optic Swap system
• Focal Length: 50mm
• Focus Type: Manual
• Features a unique barrel focusing ring that becomes more sensitive (requiring greater rotation to move the optic in and out) as you approach infinity, making it easier to focus on subjects from 10 feet to infinity.
• Aperture Type: Interchangeable levitating aperture disks
• Apertures: f/2, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, f/16, f/22
• Minimum Focus: about 46cm / Maximum Focus: Infinity

The Muse - Fast and loose
Suggested retail price £99.99 with double glass optic
Suggested retail price £64.99 with plastic optic

• Complete with either the Double Glass optic installed or the Plastic optic installed.
• Features the Lensbaby Optic Swap system
• Focal Length: right around 50mm
• Focus Type: Manual…Fingertip, actually
• Aperture Type: Interchangeable levitating aperture disks
• Aperture: f/2, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8
• Minimum Focus: approximately 30 cm / Maximum Focus: Infinity and beyond

The Control Freak - Methodical and Step-by-step
Suggested retail price £170.00

• Complete with the Double Glass Optic installed
• Features the Lensbaby Optic Swap system
• Focal Length: 50mm
• Focus Type: Manual/Fingertip, with barrel fine focus
• Aperture Type: Interchangeable levitating aperture disks
• Aperture: f/2, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, f/16, f/22
• Minimum Focus: approximately 30 cm / Maximum Focus: Infinity

All 3 new Lensbabies will be available in the UK from late November.
Suggested Retail Prices as follows:

• The Composer £164.99
• The Muse FROM £64.99
• The Control Freak £170.00
• Optic Swap System FROM £22.99

Whether you’re an Olympus user or not, there’s a new photographic exhibition in town worth a gander:

PRESS RELEASE…

United Kingdom — Nov. 12, 2008 — A collaboration of over one hundred
photographers from around the world has culminated in a
ground-breaking exhibition of photography.

Organised by the Olympus Photo Safari Group, this major event aims to
draw attention back to the quality of the printed photographic image.
Breaking new ground in worldwide collaboration, the presentation will
feature 200 16″x12″ high quality prints, representing highlights of
600 images contributed by over 100 talented photographers, from around
the globe.

The exhibition will run from Tuesday 25th to Sunday 30th November at
the ‘View from the Top’ art gallery in Nottingham, central UK.

The group are proud to mark the occasion, with the launch of their
first photographic book and DVD, which will present stunning examples
of photography by passionate photographers worldwide, using Olympus
E-System cameras.

Brian Mosley, founder of the Olympus Photo Safari Group said today :

“This exhibition celebrates the group’s first year of incredible
growth, and offers a clear message to the industry - please listen to
what passionate photographers want from their camera equipment.

Our members believe that Olympus provide the best solution for the
serious photographer with their designed for digital E-System cameras
and most importantly the exceptional quality of the light weight Zuiko
lenses. This combination provides us with the capability to produce
truly outstanding images.  The group also acknowledges that Olympus
will have to work hard to maintain their lead over the competition
with regard to tough, compact and inspirational cameras.

The Olympus Photo Safari Group is building a strong, interdependent
relationship with Olympus, which will help Olympus to stay focused on
what our members need to improve their photography.”

Full details and live updates on the exhibition will be posted here :
http://www.ukphotosafari.org/announcements/

The photo competition being run by Coffee Republic has had the closing date for entries extended until November 20th. See further down the blog for details of the competition itself.

Toshiba announce a TV that does for, well, TV, that HDMI DVD players do for DVD output. It upscales the picture resolution. Given that standard digital TV signal MPEG2 encoding is actually quite poor, the prospect of upscaled live football might well fill you with Lego-shaped dread. But, here’s what Toshiba has to say anyway:

Toshiba Launches World’s First Upscaling TV

Toshiba today announces the launch of the new REGZA ZV series - the world’s first upscaling TV.

The REGZA ZV series debuts Toshiba’s innovative Resolution + technology, which uses a cell processor algorithm to provide greater image detail. By employing cutting-edge image-enhancing technologies, standard definition sources are scanned and up-converted to near HD quality, providing viewers with crisper images that are richer in detail. The results are truly impressive, with enhanced pictures that verge on high definition quality.

“While we’re making great progress in the development of image display technology, consumers are currently restricted by the lack of free-to-air HD content available,” said Andrew Line, UK TV Product Manager at Toshiba. “More than 99% of TV programmes are still broadcast and viewed in standard definition and the majority of home movie watching is through DVD, most of which is quite significantly compressed. With Resolution + technology, we’re able to offer consumers the ability to instantly upgrade whatever it is they might choose to watch - broadcast, standard DVD or otherwise - to near high definition quality. There is a marked improvement in the quality of the final image, and we’re very excited by the benefits this technology can offer.”

Using its integrated processing power, Toshiba’s Resolution + is able to improve pictures by increasing image definition and improving picture edges using correlation with adjacent images. A powerful processor is able to review adjacent areas of an image, determining waveforms of a similar nature and combine pixel information to enhance edge detail and improve the perceived depth and texture within the final picture - creating a sharper and altogether more defined image.

The new REGZA ZV series also features a strong set of specifications across the board. In addition to Resolution + technology, the new ZV models also include Toshiba’s Active Vision M100 HD 100Hz picture processing, which offers market-leading 5:5 pulldown sequencing. By inserting an intermediate image between frames, Active Vision M100HD processing doubles the overall image refresh rate, complementing the impressive image quality with advanced and super-smooth motion handling capabilities. The ZV range also feature full 1920×1080p HD panels, with full support for images shot at the native film rate of 24fps to eradicate any motion judder in pre-recorded movie playback.

The REGZA ZV series also includes 10-Bit colour processing to support the Resolution + technology. Mid colour tones are managed using Dynamic Gamma Curve Correction, which ensures a smooth transition between black and white without affecting the appearance of either when displayed in its purest form. Dynamic Contrast ratios of up to 30,000:1 help deliver bright whites and deep, dark blacks by controlling the actively controlling the LCD backlight, while a Wide Colour Gamut takes colour palette display capabilities up to an impressive 128% of colours being reproduced*.
Well balanced audio is provided by NICAM Stereo and SRS WOW technology, which is projected via a discreet speaker grille that runs below the LCD screen. All models also feature an integrated digital tuner, allowing instant access to free-to-air digital broadcasts.

The REGZA ZV series also offers a comprehensive set of connections, with 3xHDMI inputs offering the capacity to remain connected to HDMI DVD players, BD players, next generation games consoles and other high definition sources without having to switch cables. All three HDMI inputs are v1.3 compliant, providing compatibility with REGZA-Link Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) technology, which allows the potential to control all devices from one single remote control. In addition, Component Video, SCART and a PC Input are also included alongside S Video.

All models within Toshiba’s new REGZA ZV series include Toshiba’s Game Mode technology, which creates a direct channel for two-way communication between the TV and games consoles, preventing any potential time lag and improving response times. A full power down button also allows users to turn each TV off without relying solely on standby, increasing user flexibility and reducing overall energy consumption.

The REGZA ZV series comes in 42″ and 46″ models with a gloss black finish, illuminated Toshiba logo on the front and a boomerang swivel stand, giving it a sleek look to match the technology inside.
The ZV series will be available from the beginning of December at a RRP of £899.99 (42″) and £1199.99 (46″)

If you’re into travel photography then this might be of interest:

THE WORLD THROUGH A LENS

Nikon UK has teamed up with Intrepid Travel for the launch of the Ultimate Guide to Travel Photography published by Footprints publishing, a new book that will change the way you travel.

Written by acclaimed author and photographer of ‘Unforgettable Places to see Before you Die’ Steve Davey, it covers everything that you need to know about travel photography including preparation, exploring with a camera, all of the technical stuff as well as hints and tips about virtually every travel photography scenario. There is even a comprehensive section on post-processing your pictures using some of the most popular computer software, and tips on making money from your photography.

Whatever camera you use and whatever your level this book is packed with information for you. There are Pro-Tips, information about shooting in RAW format, as well as specific information for users of film SLRs, digital compacts as well as Digital SLRs.

Broken down by technique and photography style, rather than destination, the layout of this book makes it easy for you to decide what kind of picture you’re trying to take and find, at a glance, the right techniques for you.

As well as taking pictures, this book will inspire you to head out and see the world. Packed with inspirational pictures and anecdotes from Steve’s years on the road, this book is a call to get out and explore.

When you buy the book, you get exclusive access to a dedicated website, with further information sections, expanded photographic galleries, weblinks from the book and a forum to ask the author questions and even a photo-clinic where there is the opportunity to get your images critiqued by the author.

Some interesting filters added to the Olympus E-30 enabling in-camera fancy effects. Have a look here:

The Olympus E-30: your own portable creative studio

A creative photographer’s most important tool is the power of expression - and the Olympus E-30 delivers it in spades. For the ultimate in artistic expression, the E-30 offers six Art Filters*, each of which uses different settings to create incredible photographic effects that would otherwise require additional lenses, filters or complex editing. A Multiple Exposure* mode further bolsters the potential for distinctive artistry in compositions, as do the choice of nine separate aspect ratios*. With the newly-developed high-speed 12.3 Megapixel Live MOS sensor* and TruePic III+ image processor*, top quality image results are ensured. Ensuring an enjoyable photo experience, the monitor facilitates Live View framing ease from virtually any angle. Furthermore, thanks to built-in image stabilisation*, shots stay impressively sharp irrespective of the attached lens. And because sometimes the perfect shot can present itself in the blink of an eye, the E-30 boasts a range of high-speed performance features to make sure that you’ll always be ready for it: lightning-fast autofocus speeds, 5fps sequential shooting and shutter speeds of up to 1/8000th sec. The E-30 will be available from mid-January 2009 with prices to be confirmed.

Express yourself
Six innovative Art Filters enables special artistic effects to be created directly in the camera and put you in control of your composition: styles like Pop Art*, Soft Focus*, Pale & Light Colour*, Light Tone*, Grainy Film* and Pin Hole* let you capture your world the way you want to portray it. These effects would normally require special lenses, filters, or image processing programs, but with the E-30, it all happens inside the camera. You can even preview the effect of a particular filter on the 2.7″/6.9cm HyperCrystal* II LCD before shooting. What’s more, in Multiple Exposure* mode, several images can be superimposed on a previously-captured image to take photographic creativity to a whole new level. The E-30 also offers nine different aspect ratios* for nine different takes on any scene. In addition, Live View* with improved high-speed contrast autofocus** depictions allows for easy framing of shots on the free-angle LCD.

Quality results
A range of great technologies helps ensure that the E-30 provides picture-perfect images every time. The newly developed 12.3 Megapixel Live MOS sensor provides amazing image quality at low power requirements. Combine this with the new TruePic III+ ultra high-speed image processor, and results must be seen to be believed. Built-in mechanical image stabilisation rounds up the package, significantly reducing image blur caused by such factors as low light or camera shake. And to ensure that the E-30’s powerful sensor remains dust-free, the patented Olympus Supersonic Wave Filter* is integrated.

A need for speed
Ever waited and waited for that perfect shot, and then missed it because your camera couldn’t keep up with the action? You don’t have to worry anymore because the E-30 is always prepared. High-speed shooting of up to 5fps in full 12.3 Megapixel mode and shutter speeds of up to 1/8000th sec. will help you capture even the fastest action shots. In addition, the E-30 incorporates a fully-biaxial 11-point AF system for incredible autofocusing speeds in any lighting conditions.

Additional features and accessories
For photographers looking for integrated features to improve their shooting experience, the E-30 has a lot to offer. Shadow Adjustment Technology* helps lighten shadows in shots, while Face Detection Technology* recognises and focuses on the faces of subjects in a composition. An integrated Level Gauge* also appears on the LCD, in the viewfinder, and on the Control Panel on the back of the camera. This functions like a level used in construction to ensure that your pictures will never be askew. And when it comes to accessories, the E-30 also covers the whole range. As part of the Olympus E-System and based on the Four Thirds Standard, many lenses and other accessories are available to ensure the E-30 takes creativity to a higher level. From fish-eye, macro and ultra-wide-angle lenses through to ultra-zoom models, the ZUIKO DIGITAL range of lenses leaves nothing to be desired. New in the line-up is the ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II lens, which also enables full contrast AF performance with the E-30.

The Olympus E-30 gives photographers a portable creative studio and provides everything required to live out and express creativity while enjoying pro-level image results, control and performance. It will go on sale from mid-January 2009.

* Please see Appendix at the end of the document
**             Full contrast AF performance is available with new Olympus lenses including the
ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9-18mm 1:4.0-5.6, the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-42mm 1:3.5-5.6,  the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm 1:4.0-5.6, the ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm 1:2.8 “pancake” lens and the new ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II.

The Olympus E-30 digital SLR - main features:

Creativity
·       Art Filters, Multiple Exposure, Wireless Flash*, Multi-Aspect
·       Comfortable Live View thanks to high-speed contrast AF
·       Free-angle 2.7″/6.9cm HyperCrystal II LCD
Image Quality
·       Newly developed 12.3 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor
·       TruePic III+ processor for ideal colour reproduction and low noise
·       Built-in IS with max. 5 EV steps efficiency
Speed
·       High-speed 11-point fully-biaxial AF performance
·       Max. 5fps
·       1/8000th sec. high speed shutter & 1/250th sec. flash synchronisation

Additional features of the Olympus E-30:
·      Multiple-exposure function with LCD monitor display of current view superimposed on top of previously captured image
·      Auto gradation adjustment to prevent blown highlights and blocked-in shadows
·      Face & Background Control for beautifully balanced exposures of foreground subjects and background scenery
·      Perfect Shot Preview to enable comparison of the results of various settings adjustments before actual shooting
·      Reliable Supersonic Wave Filter dust reduction system
·      Built-in flash with commander function for wireless off-camera flash synchronisation
·      Large optical viewfinder with approx 98% field of view and approx 1.02x magnification
·      Shooting information displayed via top-mounted LCD panel and Super Control Panel LCD monitor display for superior visibility and operating ease
·      High-precision, 49-zone metering system
·      Easy activation of shooting functions via sample image selection
·      Versatile bracketing functions for ISO, white balance, exposure, and flash
·      Lightbox view with enlargement function for easy side-by-side comparison of images
·      Based on the Four Thirds Standard
·      Ergonomic design of body, control buttons and GUI for easy operation
·      AE/AF lock functionality for individual customisation
·      Second display for Super Control Panel
·      ISO 100-3200 for wide-ranging sensitivity
·      Built-in flash (GN13) and wireless flash control directly from the camera body
·      Wireless flash control in up to 3 groups (separate press release available for Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R flash units)
·      Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interface
·      High-speed data writing and lossless RAW compression for quick processing
·      Simultaneous writing of RAW and JPEG
·      27 shooting modes (5 Exposure Modes, 5 Creative Modes, 11 Scene Select Modes, 6 Art Filters)
·      Wide dynamic range in highly lit areas
·      Dual memory slot for CompactFlash and xD-Picture Cards (incl. support for UDMA High-Speed CF cards and Microdrive)

The Olympus E-30 is available in the following configurations:

·         Olympus E-30 body only
·         E-30 body with ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-60mm 1:2.8-4.0 lens
·         E-30 body with ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II lens
·         E-30 body with ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-42mm 1:3.5-5.6 lens

Appendix

Art Filters
Enables special artistic effects to be created directly in the camera. The following Art Filters are available in the Olympus E-30:
Pop Art: Enhances colours, making them stronger and more vivid to create high-impact pictures that express the happy, light-hearted feeling of the pop art style.
Soft Focus: Creates a soft tone which gives pictures an ethereal, otherworldly atmosphere. It renders pictures as though they were veiled in heavenly light, without obscuring details such as the hair or flower petals.
Pale & Light Colour: The foreground is enclosed in flat, gentle light - similar to a flashback scene in a film - creating a sense of déjà vu.
Light Tone: Creates a picture with a gentle feel to it, similar to one taken under artificial lighting. Both the shade and highlight areas are rendered very softly to provide a sophisticated atmosphere.
Grainy Film: This effect recreates the feeling of reality evoked by grainy, high-contrast monochrome pictures. The strong presence and dramatic atmosphere make the subject stand out impressively.
Pin Hole: Reduces the peripheral brightness like an image seen through a pinhole. Added to this is a unique colour tone that results in a style that has an air of secrecy or portrays the feeling of being lost in another dimension or space.

Built-in image stabiliser
A type of image stabiliser that is built directly into the camera. This enables the photo-enhancing effects of image stabilisation to be enjoyed irrespective of the attached lens. In Olympus E-System cameras with built-in image stabilisation, a gyro sensor detects the precise direction of the shake. Using the on-board SWD, the shake is then compensated for by shifting the image sensor according to the movement data. For quick response at long focal lengths, cameras are equipped with two dedicated microprocessors: one to control the two supersonic motors that shift the unit vertically and horizontally, and one to provide high-precision control.

Face Detection Technology
A technology that searches for faces in a composition and recognises them as the main subject. It then automatically puts them in focus and optimally adjusts exposure to create an image that’s sharp in the right places and ideally exposed.

High Speed Live MOS Sensor
A high-performance image sensor that enables Live View capabilities and fast sequential shooting for D-SLR cameras. It combines the advanced specifications of a Full Frame Transfer (FFT) CCD with the low power requirement of a CMOS. Photodiodes are deeply embedded in the sensor to suppress image noise. The faithful reproduction of subject details with rich tones and natural, vibrant colours characterise this type of sensor.

HyperCrystal
A high-grade, fully-transmissive technology used in LCDs, which employs an additional layer at the bottom of the LCD to reflect light from external light sources. This enhances the brightness of the LCD, so even in direct sunlight images are displayed sharply and with improved contrast compared to that of conventional displays. Also, it provides for particularly wide viewing angles without glare or shadow, so images can be framed from a variety of angles and viewed by several people at once.

Level Gauge
The Level Gauge functions like a level used in construction - it helps ensure that pictures are straight and even. The built-in dual axis sensor detects the levels in roll and pitch. The level gauge is displayed in the viewfinder, on the Control Panel and on the rear LCD.

Live View
Provides an alternative to framing shots through the viewfinder on a digital SLR camera. The image sent through the lens to the image sensor is displayed directly on the camera’s LCD. Whereas most compact digital cameras have been equipped with Live View functionality for many years, this feature has only recently become available on D-SLRs. The world’s first D-SLR to feature continuous Live View capabilities was the Olympus E-330.

Multi Aspect
The E-30 lets photographers choose from nine different aspect ratios that enable individualised framing of scenes. These provide a new means of adding expression to shots and the selected ratio can be seen directly on the camera’s LCD. The available aspect ratios include: 16:9, 3:2, 7:5, 4:3, 5:4, 6:5, 7:6, 7:5 and 6:6.

Multi Exposure
Multiple exposures are possible with the E-30 in both Live View and viewfinder shooting. In Live View shooting, previously shot RAW data is used as the base image and the final photo can be monitored by overlapping the image to be added on the LCD. Up to four images can be superimposed in a single multiple exposure sequence.

RC Wireless Flash Control
The user can control wireless flash units remotely - eliminating the need for extra cables - by using the built-in flash as the system’s master unit. Control options include the ability to independently regulate flash mode and compensation settings for up to three groups of flashes, four channel settings to avoid interference as well as a wide range of brightness levels.

Shadow Adjustment Technology
A technology designed to improve exposure for pictures with dark areas. Using a sensor that works much like the human eye, dark parts of a composition (e.g. a shadow under a tree) are identified and the camera then adjusts the exposure settings accordingly for those areas. The result is a more realistic and detailed picture.

Supersonic Wave Filter
Dust entering digital SLRs, for example during lens changes, can cause damage to photos - unless it is removed. With the Supersonic Wave Filter, the potential for dust to ruin photos is eliminated. A transparent filter is located between the camera’s shutter and sensor. It makes sure no dust is able to land on the sensor. Instead, the particles settle on the filter and are then shaken off by a series of ultrasonic vibrations generated by the filter when activated. Olympus was the first manufacturer to incorporate dust protection in D-SLRs.

TruePic III+ image processor
Olympus’ latest-generation image processing engine. It automatically enhances important aspects of image quality including: colour reproduction (colour range, saturation and brightness), picture sharpness (reduced image noise, improved edge reproduction), as well as providing faster processing speeds. Furthermore, it supports Art Filters to enable unprecedented creative expression.

If you’ve bought into the Four Thirds digital lens system then harken to these tidings from Olympus:

New ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II with full contrast AF

When it comes to sharp, high-contrast imaging, the new Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II (28-108mm)* takes the success of its popular predecessor, the ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5, to a new dimension. Featuring High-Speed Imager AF to enable maximum creative freedom, a circular aperture mechanism for higher imaging performance and a minimum focusing distance of just 22cm, the Four Thirds based ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II (28-108mm)* will become available in mid-January 2009. Prices will be confirmed at a later date.

Harness the synergies of high image quality and creative flexibility with the latest addition to Olympus’ family of top-performing lenses: the ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II (28-108mm)*. As with the entire ZUIKO DIGITAL range, this new lens is precision-engineered to maximise the performance potential of D-SLR image sensors. This bright and flexible new zoom lens guarantees superior quality and boasts a circular aperture diaphragm to smooth out the soft focus look that is a key advantage of large-aperture lens design.

Developed as a successor to the ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 - a favourite with advanced amateur and professional users - the new ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II boasts High-Speed Imager AF support to bring joy to creative photographers everywhere. In combination with the brand new Olympus E-30 D-SLR, the new lens’ High-Speed Imager AF lets photographers preview the E-30’s new Art Filter effects in real-time with the convenience of a compact digital camera - thanks to Live View.

Compact size, high image quality, and the clarity of 1:2.8 brightness were achieved by the optimal arrangement of 3 aspherical lens elements and 4 cemented lens elements. The result is a new benchmark for sharpness and contrast, with minimal distortion for superior imaging performance over the entire zoom range.

The new lens uses a floating internal focus mechanism to focus, with excellent imaging performance from infinity right down to its minimum focusing distance. Exhibiting minimal aberration even at extremely close range, it has a minimum focusing distance of just 22cm for all focal lengths. And no matter what the conditions, its exterior joints are sealed to provide splash and dustproof standards high enough to withstand the rigorous demands of professional use.

With its versatile zoom range, the ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II is an ideal choice for a wide range of shooting situations. For creative effect, photographers can enjoy the exaggerated perspectives that are the hallmark of wide angle shooting. And when it comes to capturing stunning details, the new lens packs sufficient telephoto power to zoom right in for close-ups of the main subject.

The ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II (28-108mm)* will become available in mid-January 2009.

ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II (28-108mm) lens - main features:

·         High-Speed Imager AF compatibility
·         A full complement of features to support creative photography
·         Circular aperture diaphragm
·         Closest focusing distance of 22cm throughout the zoom range
·         Bright 3.9x wide angle standard zoom
·         3 aspherical lens elements for excellent quality
·         Splash and dustproof