SIGMA APO 700-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM

Sigma has announced its 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM image-stabilised fast telezoom is now available in Nikon F mount. Previously available in Canon EF mount, the Nikon version is priced at $2,470. The lens features a new optical design that uses two elements made of the company’s recently developed ’FLD’ glass plus three SLD glass elements to reduce aberrations, a 9-blade circular aperture, and features full-time manual focus override. It also comes with an adapter for APS-C users.

July 13, 2009: Sony has launched the largest-ever capacity Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX, crowning the range with a massive 32GB model. Memory Stick HX already delivers impressive speed, so the introduction of a 32GB version makes it the perfect choice for handling the very large files created when filming in High Definition video. The huge amount of space is also ideal for still photography, whether you are using a sophisticated DSLR like the Sony α, or a compact, go-anywhere Cybershot.

Camcorder users can shoot in Full HD mode (1920 x 1080) for an impressive 225 minutes using a single 32GB Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX, virtually eliminating the nagging worry about how much space is left.

Freedom to concentrate on creating outstanding HD video is matched by trademark Memory Stick HX performance. Using the included USB adaptor, read speeds of 20MB/s and write speeds of 15MB/s* are achievable, so you spend a lot less time waiting for your video to transfer to your PC.

This potent combination of size and speed is equally good news for owners of technically advanced DSLRs like the Sony α with its continuous shooting capability. Alternatively, anyone with a compact digital camera who simply never wants to worry about filling up the memory now has the ideal solution.

The Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX range also includes 4GB, 8GB and 16GB models, and all versions are supplied with the free USB adaptor for optimum performance and easy connection to a huge range of hardware.

Features:

• Highest available capacity – 32GB comes to Memory Stick HX family
• Super-fast 20MB/second data transfer significantly shortens the wait
• Perfect for High Definition camcorders – or anyone handling large volumes of images

The new DC-600uw takes videos with sound in YouTube format, which can then be immediately uploaded to any compatible online platform.The AgfaPhoto DC-600uw can now be purchased for 149 euros (manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including value added tax).

Refined technology, with an aquatic look
Using the AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is incredibly easy, even when snorkeling and diving. The unique red quick selection button allows for quick change from land mode to underwater mode, while the 2.4 inch display helps select what to shoot.

The camera’s face tracking function automatically recognizes faces, and brings them into clear focus. With its easily distinguished glowing blue color, five-times (5X) digital zoom, six megapixel resolution, high degree of light sensitivity up to ISO 1600, and support for the most common scene modes, the new AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is the right choice for any summer vacation. A strong partner on land too

The AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is also ready for any outdoor adventure. Whether mountain biking or playing volleyball at the beach – the camera’s robust construction protects it if accidentally dropped, and also protects it against dust and dirt.

The AgfaPhoto DC-600uw weighs 131 grams, and fits easily into almost any pocket or bag. Included with the AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is a carrying case, a carry strap, a USB cable and video cable, two AA batteries, an instruction manual, and a software CD-ROM. Additional color variants will be available in July 2009.

“The market for entry to mid-level DSLR cameras is growing, and SDHC is becoming the de-facto card format for these devices,” said Susan Park, director, retail product marketing, SanDisk.“Our card’s 32GB of storage and up to 30MB/s read & write speeds enable DSLR users to shoot without worrying about storage or speed limitations. SanDisk Extreme SDHC cards provide consumers with a more enjoyable user experience, letting them focus on what is really important – the images that they are capturing.”

Lightning-Fast Write Speed Captures Images Quickly
A memory card’s write speed plays a crucial role in the overall system of the camera when taking pictures in rapid succession. If a card cannot process data quickly enough then the burst mode shooting may pause unexpectedly as the card catches up to the camera. Burst mode bottlenecks can lead to missing “the” shot, especially at sporting or other fast-motion events. The SanDisk Extreme SDHC card offers maximum data-transfer rates, giving consumers a memory card fast enough to unlock the full capabilities of their DSLRs.

The 32GB SanDisk Extreme SDHC card adheres to the SD Association’s new Class 10 specification, which exceeds requirement for today’s high definition (AVCHD) video recording. The card offers a sustained write speed fast enough to ensure high-definition video recording and capacity capable of storing 160 minutes of full HD 1920×1080 pixels at 24Mb/s data transfer rate.

Big Files Require Big Storage
Recently-released DSLR camera models like the Nikon D90 and D5000 offer consumers the ability to record HD videos, producing large files that can fill lesser-capacity cards quickly. Today’s high-megapixel DSLRs also can generate massive still images like those produced in the RAW format used by professional photographers who want to take advantage of the enhanced picture quality and flexibility that RAW allows during post production.

RAW images demand up to ten times as much storage space as regular JPEG images, and when taken in rapid succession during burst mode can quickly fill smaller storage cards. The 32GB SanDisk Extreme SDHC card can store up to 2500 RAW*** images, providing photographers with piece of mind and confidence that they will not run out of space for their images.

Renowned for their world-class durability, SanDisk Extreme SDHC cards guarantee operation at extended temperatures ranging from minus 13 F (minus 25 C) to 185 F (85 C). SanDisk Extreme SDHC cards are fully compatible with any camera, card reader or other device that supports SDHC cards.

When placed in SanDisk’s new ImageMate® Multi-Card USB 2.0 reader/writer, the SanDisk Extreme SDHC card transfers images and video to a computer at rates of up to 30MB/s. The card’s fast data transfer rates enable photographers operating under tight deadlines to maximize critical workflow and enter post production as quickly as possible.

Class 10 Performance Sets a New Standard
An SD™ card’s speed Class is based on its minimum data-transfer rate, and is used to ensure high-quality video recording standards. The SD Association added Class 10 as part of the SD 3.0 specification released earlier this year. The SanDisk Extreme SDHC card’s performance exceeds the requirements of even the highest-quality AVCHD video recording device, and is currently the fastest Class 10 card in the world.

Availability:
The SanDisk Extreme SDHC 32GB cards will be shipping worldwide to major retailers in August. Also in August, the current 4, 8 and16GB capacity SanDisk Extreme SDHC cards will be upgraded from Class 6 to Class 10****.

*1 gigabyte (GB) = 1 billion bytes. Some capacity not available for data storage.
** Based on SanDisk internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device. 1 megabyte (MB) = 1 million bytes.
*** Approximations: results will vary based on file size, resolution, compression, bit rate, content, host device, pre-loaded files and other factors. Based on 10MB per RAW file size assumption.
**** SanDisk Extreme SDHC cards will replace SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition cards.

Pentax Optio W80

GOLDEN, CO (June 24, 2009) : The manufacturer that builds digital cameras to go boldly where none have gone before has announced the PENTAX Optio W80.  More adventure-proof than ever, this latest PENTAX digital camera is waterproof, dustproof, coldproof, and now shockproof enough to withstand impact from a fall of more than three feet (one meter).

PENTAX first introduced dunkable digital cameras in 2003 to the delight of outdoor enthusiasts, travelers and families everywhere.  Today, the PENTAX Optio W80’s waterproof design withstands depths of up to 16 feet (5 meters) to protect from rain and spills, as well as allowing full underwater photos and video for up to two hours.  On dry land, the rugged, shockproof design protects against drops of up to 3.3 feet to protect the camera from hard use and occasional spills.  Also featuring 12.1 megapixels, a 5X internal optical zoom (equivalent to 28-140mm), a slim one inch body, and a wide angle 28mm lens, the Optio W80 offers an expanded perspective that is ideal for landscape, group and more confined shots.  With a PENTAX-developed imaging engine and a high-performance PENTAX zoom lens, the Optio W80 delivers brilliant, high-quality images with well-defined details.  A Super Protect (SP) coating applied to the mineral crystal cover of the internal zoom lens helps repel water, grime and finger marks.

Other important features in the Optio W80 include a:

• Coldproof design that allows the camera to be used in sub-freezing temperatures of 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius), ideal for cold weather activities such as skiing and snowmobiling.
• 2.5 inch LCD monitor that features anti-reflective coating, making it easy to view, even in bright sunlight.
• Widescreen, HD movie capture that records resolutions up to 1280×720 pixels at full-speed 30 frames per second.
• Fast Face Detection technology that sees up to 32 faces in 0.03 seconds, with Smile Capture and Blink Detection, for perfect portrait shots.
• Pixel Track Shake Reduction (SR) that ensures sharp images in any lighting condition, without adding high ISO noise. Digital SR and Movie SR are also available.
• Close focusing, Super Macro mode that brings out the details in even the smallest subjects as close as 1 cm (less than one inch).

 Available in Cardinal Red, Azure Blue and Gunmetal Gray, the Optio W80 will be available in July 2009 for $299.95 USD.  To help keep the Optio W80 fresh and at hand, PENTAX offers a custom designed clear protective skin ($16.95 USD) and a comfortable floating wrist strap ($19.95 USD).

Features

Enhanced rugged performance
With the most water and airtight external joints ever, PENTAX has improved the Optio W80’s underwater performance to more than 16 feet for up to two hours of continuous operation.  Along with this outstanding JIS Class 8 waterproof rating, the Optio W80 provides JIS Class 6 dustproof and coldproof performance for reliable operation at temperatures as low as 14 degrees F (–10 degrees C).

New shockproof performance
With shock-absorbent material positioned throughout the Optio W80’s rigid and durable interior design, the Optio W80 will withstand impact from a fall from a height of more than three feet (one meter)* without damage to the body for reliability even in harsh shooting conditions.

Optical 5X zoom lens for excellent zoom coverage from wide angle to telephoto
The Optio W80 features an optical 5X zoom lens covering focal lengths from 28mm wide angle to 140mm telephoto.  With this wide zoom range, the Optio W80 may be used for a variety of challenging subjects and scenes including landscapes, architecture, large group shots and tight snapshots from a distance. For a tighter zoom on subjects, an Intelligent Zoom function extends the zoom range to approximately 31.3X.

High-quality HD-Widescreen movie recording
The Optio W80 captures beautiful, flawless, high-definition movie clips at 16:9 TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels)** at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The camera also is equipped with advanced features designed to facilitate high quality movie recording: 

• Movie SR (Shake Reduction) mode automatically compensates camera shake during movie shooting
• Underwater Movie mode automatically optimizes color for underwater movie shooting.

Triple anti-shake protection

• Pixel Track SR mode
  When recording still images, the Optio W80’s Pixel Track SR (Shake Reduction) mode effectively compensates for camera shake by processing the amount of image blur with a dedicated ASIC.  Pixel Track SR tracks motion blur at the pixel level and calculates blur volume in real time. After exposure, the recovery filter centers the motion effect around each pixel to compartmentalize the blur.  Then, an adjustment filter sharpens the pixels to help remove the blur effect. Pixel Track SR results in sharp images without adding high ISO noise.
• High-Sensitivity SR mode***
  The Optio W80 automatically raises the sensitivity setting to as high as ISO 6400 when it detects low-lighting conditions in still-image shooting so that a higher shutter speed may be used. This effectively minimizes adverse effects of camera shake and subject blur under poor lighting conditions.
• Movie SR mode****
  During movie recording, the Optio W80 prevents blurry images by effectively minimizing annoying camera shake.

Auto Picture mode for automatic selection of eight different shooting modes
The Optio W80 features the PENTAX-original Auto Picture mode, which automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by detecting the subject’s lighting and other conditions. This user-friendly feature chooses the best mode choice for the photographer (from Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Flower, Sport, Standard and Candlelight modes).

Automatic Face Detection of up to 32 faces in a mere 0.03 seconds
The Optio W80 features the advanced Face Detection AF & AE function for more accurate people shots.  This function automatically detects up to 32 faces in the image field, and then optimizes focus and exposure settings in about 0.03 seconds. The Optio W80 is also equipped with the Smile Capture mode, which automatically releases the shutter the moment the camera detects the subject’s smile and a Blink Detection function, which warns the photographer if a subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.

Large LCD monitor for effortless outdoor viewing
The Optio W80 features a large 2.5 inch high-brightness color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots. This monitor is treated with a special AR (Anti-Reflection) coating to cut the glare of external light and minimize annoying reflections, making it easy to view recorded images even in bright sunlight.

Additional features

• An Auto Macro mode records dramatic close-up images of a subject from close as one centimeter.
• A Digital Wide function to compose extra-wide-angle images (equivalent to an image taken with an approx. 21mm lens in 35mm format) from two images.
• An AF-assisting spot beam projector (ON/OFF switchable) assists auto focusing operation in the dark.
• A new D-Range setting to prevent overexposed (washed-out) and underexposed (blacked-out) areas in an image.
• A decorative frame composite function to shoot or compose images with 90 photo frame selections stored in the camera.
• 20 digital filters, including Toy Camera and Retro, add distinctive visual effects to recorded images.
  ACDSee for PENTAX 3.0 image viewing, editing and filing software included (compatible with Windows VistaTM).

* Measured under PENTAX-original testing standards (from a height of one meter, onto a surface of 5cm-thick plywood), conforming to MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock.
** When the Optio W80’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output as NTSC/PAL data. If the user wishes to play back movie clips at high-definition-TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels), the data must be transferred to a personal computer for playback.
*** When the High-Sensitivity SR mode is selected, the recorded size is fixed to 5M (2592 x 1944 pixels).
**** When the Movie SR mode is selected, the angle of view becomes narrower than normal shooting. 

Adobe logo

Adobe has released Photoshop Lightroom 2.4 and Camera Raw 5.4. The full, release version of the ACR update, that was originally posted as a release candidate on the Adobe Labs site, is now available for immediate download along with the Lightroom update. Both provide additional Raw support for Canon EOS 500D, Nikon D5000 and 18 Hasselblad models.

Click here to download Adobe Photoshop Lightroom v2.4 (Windows)

Click here to download Adobe Photoshop Lightroom v2.4 (Mac)

Click here to download Adobe Camera Raw v5.4 (Windows)

Click here to download Adobe Camera Raw v5.4 (Mac)

Press release:

Adobe has released Photoshop Lightroom 2.3 and Photoshop Camera Raw 5.3 Release Candidates, both available immediately for download from Adobe Labs at http://labs.adobe.com. The ‘release candidate’ label indicates that this update is well tested but would benefit from additional community testing before it is distributed automatically to all customers. The Lightroom and Camera Raw teams would like the community to help verify the quality of this update through normal usage as this will ensure that the application is tested on a wide variety of hardware and software configurations not available internally at Adobe.

Both release candidates provide additional raw file support for the Nikon D3X and Olympus E-30 cameras. In addition,the Lightroom 2.3 Release Candidate provides a solution to a memory leak that affected some customers of the Lightroom 2.2 release.

Adobe is also pleased to announce the availability of Lightroom in eight new languages, including Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish, Korean, Chinese (simplified) and Chinese (traditional). The Lightroom 2.3 Release Candidate available on Adobe Labs includes these additional languages, and Adobe greatly appreciates any feedback the community can provide the Lightroom team.

Click here to download the Photoshop Lightroom 2.3 Release Candidate

Click here to download the Camera Raw 5.3 Release Candidate