Nikon Updates Capture NX-D, ViewNX-i & Picture Control Utility – Available for Download
Nikon Capture NX-D Version 1.2.1
Change log
• RAW photos taken with the D810A are now supported.
• Fixed issue with changes made in ViewNX 2 and other Nikon applications sometimes not being visible when the images were previewed in Capture NX-D.
• Fixed issue with Capture NX-D occasionally being unable to open images edited in Capture NX 2.
Download
Nikon ViewNX-i Version 1.0.1
Change log
• The D810A is now supported
Download
Nikon Picture Control Utility Version 2.1.1
Change log
• The D810A is now supported
Download
Nikon Releases New Firmware Version C-1.10 For Nikon 1 V3
Nikon 1 V3 Firmware Update, Version C-1.10
Change log
• Camera Control Pro 2 Version 2.22.0 is now supported, allowing the following operations to be performed:
– The settings for connected cameras can be adjusted from Camera Control Pro 2.
– The Camera Control Pro 2 live view window can now be used for still photography and movie recording as well as to select the AF-area and adjust camera settings.
– Camera Control Pro 2 now supports best moment capture.
Download Firmware Update
Zeiss Touit Lenses & Lexar 1000x Professional SD Card on Sale
Zeiss 12mm f/2.8 Touit
For Fujifilm X Series Cameras : Adorama | B&H | Amazon
For Sony E-mount NEX Cameras : Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Regular Price : $ 999.00
Instant Rebate : $ 300.00
Current Price : $ 699.00
Zeiss 32mm f/1.8 Touit
For Fujifilm X Series Cameras : Adorama | B&H | Amazon
For Sony E-mount NEX Cameras : Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Regular Price : $ 719.00
Instant Rebate : $ 220.00
Current Price : $ 499.00
Lexar 64GB Professional 1000x UHS-II U3 SDXC Memory Card
Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Regular Price : $ 59.95
Current Price : $ 38.95
Lexar 128GB Professional 1000x UHS-II U3 SDXC Memory Card
Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Regular Price : $ 99.95
Current Price : $ 67.99
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens Only $329 Shipped!
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens Only $329 Shipped at B&H. Save $70 Instantly
PENTAX K-3 II Operating or User’s Manual Available for Download [PDF]
Canon EOS 7D, Nikon D810, Nikon D750, Hasselblad – Save up to $ 2300
Product : Nikon D750 DSLR Camera + 24-120mm Lens
Regular Price : $ 3,596.95
Instant Saving : $ 900.00
Current Price : $ 2,696.95
Product : Nikon D810 DSLR Camera + 24-120mm Lens
Regular Price : $ 4,596.95
Instant Rebate : $ 900.00
Current Price : $ 3,696.95
Product : Canon EOS 7D DSLR Camera + 18-135mm Kit
Regular Price : $ 1,799.00
Instant Rebate : $ 700.00
Current Price : $ 1,099.00
Product : Hasselblad Stellar Special Edition Digital Camera
Regular Price : $ 3,299.99
Instant Rebate : $ 2,300.00
Current Price : $ 999.99
How CCD & CMOS Image Sensors Work
© DESMARAIS LLP
CCD and CMOS are two commonly used sensor in the imaging world. Both has their pros and cons. Depending on their use in a particular field manufactures decide which they will use in their intended device.
CCD (Charge Coupled Device) was invented back in 1969 for the movement of electrical charge, usually from within the device to an area where the charge can be converted into a digital value. This is achieved by “shifting” the signals between stages within the device one at a time. CCDs move charge between capacitive bins in the device, with the shift allowing for the transfer of charge between bins.
CCD image sensors are widely used in professional, medical, and scientific applications where high-quality image data is required. In applications with less exacting quality demands, such as consumer and professional digital cameras, CMOS are generally used.
CMOS is an alternative to CCD image sensor. They are most commonly used in cell phone cameras, web cameras and in most DSLRs. The biggest advantage of a CMOS sensor is that it is typically less expensive than a CCD sensor.
Since a CMOS video sensor typically captures a row at a time it may result in a “rolling shutter effect” (image is tilted to the left or right, depending on the direction of camera or subject movement). For example, when tracking a car moving at high speed, the car will not be distorted but the background will appear to be tilted. CCD sensor does not have this problem. CCDs are also preferred in astronomical devices. (Source : WiKi)
Below is an animation from Nokia How an imaging sensor captures an image.
The following animations created by Raymond Sirí nicely demonstrate the method CMOS and CCD sensors use to transfer digital signal.
CMOS Animation Sequence
CCD Animation Sequence
Leica SUMMILUX-M 28mm f/1.4 ASPH Lens for M-SYSTEM
Availability : June 1015
Price : $ 5,950.00
Order Now : Adorama | B&H
Key features
- Ideal for photo-journalism, architecture and landscapes
- Extreme sharpness and very shallow depth of field
- Exceptional imaging performance
- Outstanding contrast
- Excellent reproduction of details
The Summilux-M 1:1,4/28mm ASPH. is the first Leica lens which combines such a high aperture and focal length. It completes the high speed prime lens family. Thanks to its high sharpness in the focal plane and low depth of field, the image quality is unmistakable. In this way the subjects can be isolated from their surroundings with crystal clarity to create images with a unique visual signature. This makes it ideal for reportage photography and also for architecture and landscapes. The lens provides excellent imaging performance in all lighting situations. Notwithstanding these features it remains the perfect compact sized companion.
The lens consists of ten lenses in seven groups. It holds an aspherical lens-element and a floating element, which guarantee a high image quality to its minimum focusing distance of 0,7m. The lens ensures a superb colour correction with its three cemented elements and seven lens-elements with anomalous partial dispersion. Reaching from infinity to its minimum focusing distance the lens offers exceptional imaging performance with high contrasts across the complete focusing range.
Product Photo
Sample Image
Specification
| Angle of view | (diagonal, horizontal, vertical) 75° / 65° / 46° (M8: 60° / 51° / 35°) |
| Optical design Number of lenses/groups Optical design Number of lenses/groups | 10 / 7 |
| Position of entrance pupil (from bayonet flange) | 31,9 mm |
| Focus range | 0.7 m to ∞ |
| Distance setting Scales | Combined meter / graduation |
| Smallest object field | 526 mm x 789 mm (M8: 395 mm x 592 mm) |
| Largest reproduction ratio | 1 : 21,9 |
| Aperture Setting / Function | prefix with click-stops, half steps |
| Lowest value | 16 |
| Bayonet | Leica M quick-change bayonet |
| Lens hood | External thread with stop for screw on lens hood (included) |
| Filter mount | E49 |
| Dimensions | 81 mm x 61 mm |
| Weight | 440 g |
How to make a DSLR Camera Rain Cover
DSLR cameras are quite expensive. And the accessories that we need to build up a camera setup are not cheap as well. For example if you have an entry level camera and want a remote shutter release, you may get away with $ 20. But to get a remote shutter release for an advance ameture or pro level camera you have to spend $ 200.
For me and many others taking picture in a bad weather require good protection to our gear. Few days back I set up my camera at a hill side to take the picture of a nesting bird. The cloud was getting heavy, so I prepared for heavy rain. Below is a picture of my set up on location.
While it was raining heavy I was firing the camera with a wireless remote from 30 ft away. After 20 minutes in heavy rain and taking enough picture I retreated to shelter. And here is the image I was looking for.
Good Camo Rain Covers are sold around $ 70 a piece. The Camera Rain Cover I have been using here and in many other occasion is something I made for myself. You can also make your own DSLR rain cover. The things you need are as follows –
1. Water proof Fabric (2 yard)
2. Velcro (1 ft)
3. Bungee Cord / Shock cord with lock
4. Rain Cover Forma ( Download )
Steps
1. Download the Forma and print them on A4 size paper. The first page shows how to glue the four pieces together. Now cut out the forma. This is the basic size I provided that will be enough for most users.
2. Remember the forma shows only one half of the Rain Cover. Fold the water proof fabric to make two layer. Now place the forma on the fabric and use a pencil to draw the shape on the fabric. (Try it on a old Newspaper first before you cut the real fabric, if you are satisfied with the size and understand how its going to fit together then work on actual fabric.)
3. Cut the fabric. Stitch free ends of the whole fabric marked by small dash line, like below. I took the help of a tailor to do it for me.
4. Now make the tunnels at both front and back end. To do that fold the fabric stitch along the big dash line. Through it the cords will pass through.
5. Fold the fabric and stitch the bottom part, except the area for velcro. Attach a 1 cm wide velcro along the free end of the bottom part.
6. Put bungee cord / shock cord with lock through the tunnels.
7. I use a good shower cap to protect the back end of camera when not using in rain.
Thus you can make your own DSLR Rain Cover.
You can watch how the whole thing performs in the video below.
But if don’t want to take this pain, you can get them at following places..
About Author
Junaed is a Doctor by profession who started photography back in 1992. From film days to digital he is regarded as a talented Photographer. He regularly appears as a guest lecturer at various Photographic clubs & institutes.
Nikon Releases New Firmware Version 1.1 For COOLPIX P610
Nikon COOLPIX P610 Firmware Update, Version 1.1
Change log
• Addressed the following issues, which in rare circumstances would occur when the eye sensor was used to switch between the monitor and electronic viewfinder displays:
– Images would not display or be saved correctly
– The camera would freeze
• Fixed an issue with manual focus that caused the focus position to change with each shot taken using interval timer photography
Download Firmware Update
Nikon COOLPIX P610 Available at Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Nikon Releases New Firmware Version C-1.02 For Nikon D750
Nikon D750 Firmware Update, Version C 1.02
Change log
• Camera operation is now more reliable.
Download Firmware Update
Nikon D750 Available at Adorama | B&H | Amazon (Now $ 1996.95 with Instant Rebate $300.00)
Zeiss Instant Rebates 2015 – Savings up to $300
Latest Rebates
Expire: August 31, 2015
Take advantage of this opportunity to instantly save 30% off of the Touit 12mm F/2.8 and the Touit 32mm F/1.8 both with Sony E mount and Fujifilm mount options. Other rebates
|
Model |
Rebate Amount |
|
Zeiss 15mm f/2.8 Distagon T* ZE Lens |
$300.00 |
|
Zeiss 18mm f/3.5 Distagon T* ZE Lens |
$200.00 |
|
Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 Distagon T* ZE Lens |
$300.00 |
|
Zeiss 25mm f/2.0 Distagon T* ZE Lens |
$200.00 |
|
Zeiss 28mm f/2.0 Distagon T* ZE Lens |
$200.00 |
|
Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 Distagon T* ZE Lens |
$300.00 |
|
Zeiss 50mm f/1.4 Planar T* ZE Lens |
$100.00 |
|
Zeiss 50mm f/2.0 Makro-Planar T* ZE Lens |
$200.00 |
|
Zeiss 85mm f/1.4 Planar T* ZE Lens |
$200.00 |
|
Zeiss 100mm f/2 Makro-Planar T* ZE Lens |
$300.00 |
|
Zeiss 135mm f/2 Apo Sonnar T* ZE Lens |
$300.00 |
Link to all 12mm F/2.8 Zeiss Touit Lens and Lens Bundles: $699.00 after Instant Rebate (Reg. $999.00)
Link to all 32mm F/1.8 Zeiss Touit Lens and Lens Bundles: $499.00 after Instant Rebate (Reg. $720.00)
Older rebates
Zeiss has new instant savings (up to $300) on selected ZF.2 lenses for Nikon F mount. You can see the full list at B&H and Adorama. Otus lenses are not part of this offer
Cosina Announced Voigtlander 10.5mm f/0.95 Nokton Lens
Availability : June 2015
Price : approx. $ 1,220.00 (¥ 148,000)
Order : B&H
Key features
- Micro Four Thirds System Lens
- 21mm (35mm Equivalent)
- Fast Aperture F/0.95
- 10-Blade Diaphragm
It is a super-wide-angle lens that has been designed as a Micro Four Thirds only. A dynamic angle of view of the diagonal 93 °, open F value achieved 0.95 and astounding brightness. The use of aspherical lens two three sides, also in aperture to ensure a sharp imaging. Video support of the diaphragm click switching mechanism and are also equipped.
large diameter of startle
The large diameter of the aperture F value 0.95, it is possible to be extremely taken with only “as is of light” even with a small quantity of light conditions. In addition, it is the perfect lens to shoot that takes advantage of shallow focus and beautiful blur at the time of the throttle open.
Ultimate lens design
10 group 13 sheets of the lens configuration designed by using the latest optical theory. The pursuit of high-dimensional imaging performance by adopting a non-spherical lens 2 sheets 3 sides. To the periphery of the screen even in aperture it is secure sufficient resolution.
Minimum shooting distance 17cm
It can be taken close from the image pickup device of the camera to a distance of 17cm (magnification of 1: 8.2). Lens hood tip will match the focus to the contact likely closeness subject.
Stop click switching mechanism
The new design of the stop changeover mechanism, it is possible to be opened and closed with no stage the aperture ring without causing a clicking sound. From this fact, along with the worry about picking up the operation sound of the aperture ring at the time of the video recording is eliminated, it will also be possible severe depth control with fine adjustment of the aperture ring.
Detachable star lens hood
It includes a star lens hood that even if equipped with a filter does not change the overall length. This food because it is removable, has improved degree of freedom in the event of a system construction of the movie shooting.
Micro Four Thirds mount
It complies with the Micro Four Thirds standard, and specially designed optical and mechanism. As well as to cover the image size of the imaging device, to achieve a high image quality by optimizing the sensor of the Micro Four Thirds.
Reliable manual focus
High and the total metal helicoid unit that has been processed and adjusted with the accuracy, the adoption of high quality grease that produce a moderate torque, to achieve focusing of the smooth operation feeling. It has to allow the subtle focus adjustment.
Product Photo
Specification
| Focal Length | 10.5mmComparable 35mm Focal Length: 21 mm |
| Aperture | Maximum: f/.95Minimum: f/16 |
| Camera Mount Type | Micro Four Thirds |
| Format Compatibility | Micro Four Thirds |
| Angle of View | 93° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 6.69″ (.17 m) |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:40 |
| Elements/Groups | 13/10 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 10 |
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | No |
| Filter Thread | Front:72 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.03 x 3.24″ (77 x 82.4 mm) |
| Weight | 1.29 lb (586 g) |
Circular – Paid Photography Apps Become Free – for iPhone & iPad
The Apps mentioned here as Free – are free when this post is written. We don’t know how long it will remain free. The Apps for Apples iOS device are made free by the developers, but how long the apps remain free is totally uncertain, unless the developers mention them. Download Quickly if you want them.
Circular+
Normal Price : $ 1.99
Download Now
A new twist on photo editing. Turn your photos into amazing circular images with Circular+. Circular+ is a fun app with powerful new features never seen before in this type of app. You can easily zoom in and out of your circular image to get it just right. Once you’re happy with your image, add professional effects such as lens flares and sky objects like the sun, moon, planets, and birds.
Ready for iOS8!
Another really cool feature is a collection of “center” objects. These include spheres, planets, and geometric shapes to place at the center of your image circle. This turns your image into a mini world.
FEATURES
– Super fast and responsive editing
– Adjust image zoom, rotation, invert-mode, and repeats
– Professional effects: lens flares, sky objects, and centers. The lens flares are the same as the pro desktop app, LensFlare Studio
– Filters and Lens Textures
– Fun sample images to get your started
What’s New in Version 1.3
New controls for adjusting the circular shape, such as Melt, Blocks, and Spiral.
New TurnTable centers.
New Film Grain Textures.
Lowepro Releases All New Pro Runner 350 AW II & 450 AW II Backpack
Availability : 21 May 2015
Price
Pro Runner BP 350 AW II – $ 249.95
Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Pro Runner BP 450 AW II
– $ 299.95
Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Pro Runner RL x450 AW II
– $ 399.95
Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Lowepro has updated their well reputable camera bag line up the Pro Runner AW to Pro Runner AW II.
There are times when you have to carry it all. Pro camera equipment for shoots. Multiple devices for workflow. Accessories and necessities for travel. The Pro Runner II series—the next-generation of Lowepro’s widely popular professional backpack design—is purpose-built to organise and protect more gear, and provide more options for manoeuvring in busy airports and crowded streets.
Organization zones help a photographer keep lots of gear in order. The camera zone features the highly customizable MaxFit System™ of dividers for maximum capacity and a snug and protective fit. The device zone includes dedicated spaces for a laptop, iPad® or Galaxy® Tab, and Wacom® tablet. CradleFit™ pockets suspend and protect devices from directly bumping against the ground.
Lowepro built a sturdy, comfortable and supportive harness system to help manage the weight of a hefty pro kit. Thick, 3D mesh padding on the back panel, contoured shoulder straps, and removable waistbelt provide support to carry a substantial amount of gear for the long haul.
Travel-friendly details throughout the pack help make the journey hassle-free. YKK locking zippers, front document pockets, mesh side pockets, adjustable sternum strap, convertible compression/trolley straps, SlipLock™ attachment loops, and a built-in All Weather AW Cover™add ease of use.
Materials: 680D nylon with PU backing, 520D nylon/poly and 210D nylon with Velex lining
Features
Compartments
1, main, zippered, storage compartment with padded, touch-fastening dividers for camera, lenses, and accessories
1, front, zippered, storage compartment 3, padded sleeves for a laptop, tablet, and Wacom type tablet
MaxFit System Dividers
Interior dividers employ a MaxFit system which conforms to the shape of stored items allowing for a tighter fit and resulting in added space for packing extra gear
CradleFit
Many interior pockets employ a cradle-fit design, which suspends and protects stored devices by preventing them from bumps and contacting the ground during transport
Interior Pockets
2, zippered, slip-in, accessory pockets
1, zippered, clear-mesh, accessory pocket inside front compartment
Exterior Pockets
2, zippered front pockets for documents and accessories
Accessory Case
Stored inside main compartment: 1, removable, zippered, padded, accessory case with top handle for storing hard drives, cables, cords, and other small items
Zippers
YKK locking zippers feature fabric zipper pulls for easy opening
Carrying Options
1, padded, top grab handle
1, padded, side grab handle
Padded, adjustable, contoured, shoulder harness with adjustable sternum strap
Removable, padded adjustable, waist belt
Convertible, compression, trolley straps
Compression straps for use with a rolling luggage trolley handle
Back Panel
Padded mesh back panel to cushion impacts and help wick-away moisture
When not needed, shoulder straps store behind back panel
Tripod Holder
Front compression straps for holding a pro tripod
All Weather Cover
1, built-in all weather cover for protection from the elements
Product Photo
Specification
| Pro Runner BP 350 AW II | Pro Runner BP 450 AW II | Pro Runner RL x450 AW II | |
| Features | DSLR with attached lens (such as Canon 5D Mark III with up to 70-200mm) 4-5 extra lenses or speedlights Up to a 13″ laptop, 10″ tablet, plus Wacom type tablet Large smartphone, pro tripod and accessories |
Up to 2 Pro DSLRs with attached lens (such Nikon D4S with up to 70-200mm f/2.8 or 300mm) 5-6 extra lenses (one up to 300mm) and speedlights Up to a 15” laptop, 10” tablet, plus Wacom type tablet Large smartphone, pro tripod and accessories |
Up to 2 Pro DSLRs with attached lens (such Nikon D4S with up to 70-200mm f/2.8 or 300mm) 5-6 extra lenses (one up to 300mm) and speedlights Up to a 15” laptop, 10” tablet, plus Wacom type tablet Large smartphone, pro tripod and accessories |
| Exterior Dimensions (WxDxH) | 12.4 x 5.5 x 18.1 in. | 13.7 x 7.1 x 19.5 in. | 13.8 x 9 x 20.7 in. |
| Interior Dimensions (WxDxH) | 11.4 x 4.5 x 15.6 in. | 12.8 x 6.3 x 16.1 in. | 12.2 x 4.3–6.5 x 17 in. |
| Weight | 2.4 kg | 2.9 kg | 4.6 kg |
Samsung Releases New Firmware Ver 1.30 For Samsung NX1
Samsung NX1 Firmware Update, Version 1.30
Change log
- Sensor reads larger data size, resulting in improved FHD quality – up to 60P (not for Slow Movie)
- Time code added features
- Rec Run option is added
- 1920×1080 (120) setting in the Movie Size Menu for easy access
- Auto Mic Control On/Off
- Histogram and Digital Level are displayed during standby / recording mode
- Capture individual 4K frame forward & backward with precision Embedded EXIF data in jpeg
- Added NEW MF Responsiveness mode (Capable of setting to Low, Medium, High focus angle in manual focus mode)
- Remains in Stand By mode after recording
- Overall AF improved
- Added Zone AF mode
- Increased the size of AF to 5 steps in AF Area Size
- No time limitation in Bulb mode
- Increased the time-lapse to 3,000 shots
- Includes the 4 most popular Pro Suggest presets (Cinematic, Memories, Gorgeous Night, and High Speed)
- Simplified EXIF data preview
- JPEG, RAW (JPEG only), and Video transfer via WiFi Actual RAW file does not transfer via WiFi. It only transfers JPEG file with Picture Wizard setting embedded to smartphone.
- Introducing NEW Samsung Remote Studio software and SDK
- Supports Tizen OS TV connection
- Overall fixed minor bugs
Download Firmware Update
Samsung NX1 Available at Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Nikon Releases New Firmware Version 1.21 For Nikon 1 V2
Nikon 1 V2 Firmware Update, Version 1.21
Change log
- Fixed issue that caused Eye-Fi wireless upload to stop functioning if a control other than the movie-record button was used to end filming when movies were being recorded to an Eye-Fi card.
Download Firmware Update
Fujifilm X-T10 with New 16-50mm Kit Lens & More
FujiFilm pleased to announce the availability of Newly Released Fujifilm X-T10 Mirrorless Digital Camera With Fujinon XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS II Lens
Availability : 25 June 2015
Price : $ 899.00
Fujifilm X-T10 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Silver) + Fujinon XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS II Lens = $ 899.95
Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Fujifilm X-T10 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Black) + Fujinon XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS II Lens = $ 899.95
Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Videos On Fujifilm X-T10 Mirrorless Digital Camera