Panasonic has announced a firmware update for the G1 micro-DSLR:

Panasonic is announcing a firmware update for the DMC-G1, Ver1.1. This firmware improves usability of the AE Lock and MF Assist features. Users can now make colour adjustments to the LCD and the LVF (Live View Finder) as well. Additional performance updates are also included in this new firmware.

Panasonic invites all users of DMC-G1 to apply the updated firmware. The firmware will be available worldwide on 16th of December, 2008 at http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/download/fts.

For those with pretty deep pockets, there’s a new Nikon DSLR to tempt you:

NIKON COMPLETES THE FAMILY WITH NEW DSLR

RRP: £5499.99 / €7728.00
Availability: Late December 2008

Nikon UK is pleased to introduce its new top-of-the-range premium D-SLR - the D3X. Building on the reliability, handling and durability of the award-winning D3, the D3X offers an imaging sensor with over twice the resolution of the revolutionary D3, breaking new ground in image quality.

The all-new 24.5MP CMOS sensor makes the new model eminently suitable for the broadest range of shooting situations, both in the studio and on location - ideal for photographers seeking unrivalled detail.

“This is the camera that many professional photographers have been waiting for,” said Robert Cristina, Professional Products and NPS Manager at Nikon Europe. “Just as the D3 has become the professionals’ camera of choice in sports photography, the D3X’s extremely high imaging resolution will raise the bar for commercial, fashion and stock photography. The results speak for themselves: this is without doubt our highest-quality camera to date.”

The World is Your Studio
The D3X boasts a specially-developed FX-format CMOS image sensor with 12-channel readout, gapless micro lens array and on-chip noise reduction. It delivers class-leading levels of continuous shooting speed and noise management at higher sensitivities without sacrificing detail.

The D3X supports a broad ISO range from ISO 100-1600, extendable down to ISO 50 and up to 6400 equivalent with up to 5 fps continuous shooting at full resolution, or 7 fps in the 10MP DX-crop mode. The acclaimed MultiCAM3500FX 51-point autofocus system enables extreme accuracy with outstanding dynamic tracking for fast moving subjects in low light.

The camera’s LiveView function offers a smooth workflow option, perfect for studio work or other situations where the use of the viewfinder is impractical. The camera also delivers a superb response rate, with a start-up of just 12 milliseconds and 40ms shutter lag. The Kevlar/carbon fibre composite shutter has been designed for intensive professional needs and tested to 300,000 cycles.

Images with the X factor
The D3X reaps the benefits of the very latest developments in sensor design and image processing technology. Designed to produce files suitable to meet the demands of tomorrow’s commercial and stock requirements, the camera produces 50MB 14-bit NEF (Raw) files. Using Capture NX2 software, NEF files can be processed into medium format terrain; 140MB (16-bit TIFF-RGB). Fine details are reproduced with incredible clarity, whilst shadows and highlights contain tonal gradation with minimal clipping for pictures with a unique look and feel.

Intuitive control
The D3X shares the same ergonomics and handling as the D3, which have been designed to enable anyone to get to work quickly and efficiently. The bright, uncluttered viewfinder features 100% coverage and comprehensive illuminated displays, while the high-definition, 3-inch, 920,000-dot VGA TFT monitor enables outstanding playback quality for on-the-spot image assessment. The D3X’s magnesium body, which is sealed for moisture and dust resistance, also supports Nikon’s wireless system (the WT-4), HDMI output, offers a dual slot for CF cards and is compatible with the new GP-1 GPS unit.

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.