Canon EOS Rebel T1i/500D already reviewed

Steve Morgenstern at DigitalCameraInfo has posted a first impressions review of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i.

From the review:

Until last fall there were no digital SLRs that shot movies. Now, with the introduction of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i, there will be three, as this $800 model (body only) joins the larger, more expensive Nikon D90 and Canon 5D Mark II in the elite video club.

Similar in size and shape to the popular Canon Rebel XSi, the T1i boosts image resolution, screen resolution and maximum ISO compared to its predecessor, and also steps up to the Digic 4 processor. The big news, though, is 1080p video in a sub-$1000 camera.

Canon gave us hands-on access to a pre-release version of the T1i. In a rare move, they even gave us permission to share some sample photos and videos with you (with the understanding that the quality may be different when the final camera ships). Overall, we found this well-designed newcomer easy to like. Here's why.

Read the full 9-page review of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i at DigitalCameraInfo.com

Pentax 645 Digital 30 megapixel DSLR coming in 2010

Pentax Japan recently announced the development of a 30 megapixel digital SLR to be released sometime next year. The 645 Digital has been announced a handful of times over the last three years, and now it may finally see the light of day.

Via digitalcamerareview

Camera Armor Seattle Solo DSLR bag

Camera Armor has announced the latest edition to its dry bag Seattle Series, the new Seattle Solo DSLR bag.

The bag provides watertight transport for your DSLR camera body with the lens attached, and will protect against dirt, dust, sand and water.

The Seattle Solo bag also features a an external accessory storage pouch for memory cards and small accessories.

Buy a Nikon Backpack for DSLR, Lenses, and Laptop

Via Photography Press

Green Pentax K-m dSLR appears in Japan

Crave says:

The specifications remain similar at 10.2-megapixel resolution, a 5-point autofocus system, 3.5 frames-per-second burst mode, and a 2.7-inch LCD on the rear. All that's missing to make this dSLR a rugged commando are shockproof and waterproof features.

Rambo wannabes will also be glad to know that this iteration of the K-m will ship with an 18-55mm olive green lens, too.

Buy a Pentax K-m / K2000 Kit with smc DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL Lens Black

Via Crave/cnet

CameraTown says Canon EOS Rebel T1i HD Video Misses the Mark

Canon released today their first Rebel dSLR with HD video recording, putting an emphasis on its ability to capture HD video recording at resolutions up to 1080p. The EOS Rebel T1i was an important camera for Canon as they were forced to play catch up to Nikon's 2008 release of the D90. The D90 was the first dSLR to ship with HD video capabilities AND it came in under the $1000 mark. Canon has since released the ($2700) EOS 5D Mark II, a professional dSLR with HD video capabilities, but definitely needed a model with video capabilities under $1000. Like the Nikon D90, the limited usefulness of the Rebel T1i's video mode shouldn't hurt sales of the camera - especially for those that could care less about video to begin with. As a camera, the Rebel T1i is priced very aggressively at $799 (body) and $899 (with 18-55mm IS Lens) and takes many of the new features of the more expensive EOS 50D and EOS 5D Mark II and adds them to the Rebel series. The 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 processing, and superior HIGH ISO performance - that should match that of the more expensive EOS-50D - along with Peripheral Illumination Correction (for up to 40 lenses) and Canon's Auto Lighting Optimizer technology will provide consumers with an advanced photographic tool that is unrivaled at a price under $1000 - at least for now.

Via CameraTown

Tamron SP AF60mm F/2.0 Di II MACRO 1:1 lens

SPECIFICATIONS
Model Name G005
Focal Length 60mm
Maximum Aperture F/2.0
Angle of View (diagonal) 26 degrees and 35 minutes (APS-C size equivalent)
Optical Construction 14 elements in 10 groups
Minimum Focusing Distance 0.23m (9.1in.)
Max. Magnification Ratio 1 : 1
Minimum Working Distance 100mm (3.94in.)
Filter Diameter 55mm
Overall Length 80mm (3.15in.)*
Maximum Diameter 73mm (2.9in.)
Weight 400g (14.1oz.)*
Diaphragm Blade Number 7
Minimum Aperture F/22
Standard Accessory Lens Hood
Compatible Mount For Canon, Nikon (with built-in AF motor) and Sony

Via Nikon Rumors

Canon Breaks the $1,000 Mark Again with the First EOS Rebel Camera to Feature HD Movie Recording Capabilities

CANON U.S.A. INTRODUCES THE EOS REBEL T1i DIGITAL SLR CAMERA THE FIRST REBEL DSLR TO FEATURE HD VIDEO CAPTURE

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., March 25, 2009 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today introduced a new addition to its Rebel lineup, the EOS Rebel T1i Digital SLR camera, the first in the Rebel line to feature Full HD video capture. The new Canon Rebel T1i SLR incorporates some of the best technologies from the EOS 50D and EOS 5D Mark II models into an entry-level juggernaut. With a 15.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and HD video capture, along with the DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor, the Rebel T1i gives aspiring photographers plenty of reason to step-up to the latest and greatest model in the Rebel lineup.

The new Canon EOS Rebel T1i raises the entry-level bar with a host of enhanced Canon technologies now available in an entry-level DSLR. Along with the boost in megapixels and Canon's most advanced imaging processor to-date, this latest Rebel camera has also been enhanced with HD video capture, a 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (920,000 dots/VGA) monitor and user-friendly functions such as Auto Lighting Optimizer, Creative Auto Mode and Canon's Live View modes, all the right tools to open new doors for imaging enthusiasts. From high-resolution to high-definition, the new EOS Rebel T1i Digital SLR camera helps to give creative consumers a jumpstart on the next evolution in digital imaging.

"We are witnessing the emergence of a new phase in digital imaging history, as high-resolution still images and HD video can now both be produced in a hand-held device, for under $1,000. This is truly a great time to be involved in digital imaging as the advent of online communities are helping usher in this next great era in imaging," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

The muscle behind Canon's new EOS Rebel T1i camera is the DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor with 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion and the ability to process full HD video. The Canon EOS Rebel T1i Digital SLR offers continuous shooting at 3.4 fps for up to 170 large/fine JPEG images or up to nine RAW images in a single burst when using a class 6 or higher SD or SDHC memory card. Whether capturing wildlife on the run or a child mid-stride on the soccer field, users will appreciate the fast shooting capabilities of the Rebel T1i Digital SLR camera.

With the combination of its 15.1-megapixel APS-C size CMOS image sensor and the powerful new DIGIC 4 image processor, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i camera provides ISO speeds from ISO 100 up to ISO 3200 in whole stop increments, along with two additional high-speed ISO settings – H1: 6400 and H2: 12800.

The EOS Rebel T1i Digital SLR utilizes a precise nine-point Autofocus (AF) system and AF sensor for enhanced subject detection. The new EOS Rebel T1i DSLR provides a cross-type AF measurement at the center that is effective with all EF and EF-S lenses, while providing enhanced precision with lenses having maximum apertures of f/2.8 or faster. The cross-type AF measurement reads a wider variety of subject matter than conventional single-axis AF sensors and thus increases the new camera's ability to autofocus quickly and accurately when shooting still images.

The EOS Rebel T1i camera is compatible with Canon's complete line of over 60 Canon EF and EF-S lenses, to help provide an incredible variety of visual effects to both still and video imaging capture, including ultra-wide-angle and fish-eye to macro and super-telephoto. This includes all of Canon's large-aperture EF L-series professional lenses.

HD and SD Video Capture

After the introduction of the EOS 5D Mark II in September 2008, the Company's first HD video DSLR, Canon has integrated this must-have feature into the new entry-level flagship EOS Rebel T1i camera. The camera features 16:9 720p HD video capture at 30 fps as well as a Full HD 1080p video capture at 20 fps, and a third option to record 4:3 standard TV quality (SD) video capture at 640 x 480 pixels and 30 fps. The video capture mode is part of the camera's Live View function, using the Picture Style that has been set for Live View still image shooting. The camera allows skilled photographers and enthusiasts to adjust image sharpness, contrast, color saturation and white balance, and have those settings apply to the movie image as well. When recording video, the camera's rear LCD screen is letter-boxed by a semi-transparent border to match the aspect ratio of the movie recording size.

Like the EOS 5D Mark II model, the EOS Rebel T1i camera will record video up to 4GB per clip equaling approximately 12 minutes of Full HD video, 18 minutes of 720p HD video, or 24 minutes of SD video depending on the level of detail in the scene.i Video clips are recorded in .MOV format using an MPEG-4 video compression and sound is recorded using linear PCMii without compression. The camera features a built-in monaural microphone to record sound. To help show off those fantastic movies as well as still photos, the EOS Rebel T1i camera includes an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) output to display crisp, clear images on a High-Definition TV.

Live View Shooting

Much like the EOS 5D Mark II, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i camera features Live View for both still images as well as video. The Rebel T1i features the Company's three Live View AF modes – Quick, Live and Face Detection Live mode – which can be used to capture still photos or video images. Quick mode automatically sets One-Shot AF using the camera's phase detection AF system. It also allows users to select the AF point, even while the Live View image is displayed. Although the camera's reflex mirror must be lowered briefly to take an AF measurement in Quick mode, it is the fastest way to set focus automatically when the Rebel T1i camera is set for Live View.

Live mode uses contrast-detection AF with the image sensor and here, as with Quick mode, users can change the location of the active AF point using the Multi-controller. Face Detection Live mode uses contrast AF to recognize human faces. When multiple faces are detected, the largest face closest to the center of the frame is targeted as the AF point. While Live View is engaged, users can still change settings including the AF mode (Quick, Live, Face Detection Live mode), drive mode, ISO speed, Picture style, White Balance and more.

Auto Lighting Optimizer

Canon's Auto Lighting Optimizer technology helps ensure that the subject of each picture is clearly visible by analyzing image brightness and automatically adjusting dark areas in images so they appear brighter. This is ideal when shooting high-contrast situations that include harsh shadow areas, such as landscape images where the foreground is brightly lit and the background detail blanketed in dark shadow. In a scene such as this, the EOS Rebel T1i camera's Auto Lighting Optimizer technology maintains exposure of the highlight areas while lightening shadow areas for a more enjoyable and evenly illuminated image. The EOS Rebel T1i also supports Peripheral Illumination Correction for up to 40 Canon EF and EF-S lenses.

Canon's Creative Auto Mode
Canon's "CA" Creative Full Auto setting available on the EOS Rebel T1i, EOS 50D and EOS 5D Mark II cameras allows users to make image adjustments such as exposure compensation, aperture or shutter speed through a simple navigation screen on the camera's LCD screen, allowing them to "blur the background" or "lighten or darken the image" with ease. These easy-to-understand image options allow learning-photographers to experiment with image options while still shooting in an automatic mode.

EOS Integrated Cleaning System

With the introduction of the EOS Rebel T1i camera, the entire Canon EOS system is now equipped with the highly acclaimed EOS Integrated Cleaning System. The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit for the Canon EOS Rebel T1i has been upgraded with a fluorine coating on the low-pass filter for better dust resistance.

Pricing and Availability

The Canon EOS Rebel T1i Digital SLR Camera is scheduled for delivery by early May and will be sold in a body-only configuration which includes a rechargeable battery pack and charger, USB and video cables, a neckstrap, an EOS Solutions Disk CD and a 1-year Canon U.S.A., Inc. limited warranty at an estimated retail price of $799.99. It will additionally be offered in a kit version with Canon's EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $899.99.

Canon Speedlite 270EX

The new Canon Speedlite 270EX, the successor to the 220EX Speedlite model, is a compact, lightweight external flash option for Canon cameras including select Canon PowerShot models. Ideal for use with the new EOS Rebel T1i, the new Speedlite 270EX uses only two AA batteries and enables bounce flash shooting with four position steps from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. Like Canon's high-end Speedlite flash models, the 270EX allows users to control flash functions and input settings using the camera's LCD monitorv. The flash also features a quick-lock mechanism and a metal mounting foot for secure and easy attachment and reliable contact.

Via Canon press release

Panasonic Announced Two New Micro Four Thirds Lenses

On March 3, 2009 Panasonic launched two new lenses for its LUMIX G Micro System – the innovative digital interchangeable lens camera system – the LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. and the LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH. Both lenses are compatible with the newly announced LUMIX DMC-GH1 digital camera, which can record High Definition (HD) AVCHD 1080/24p video, and its award-winning sister camera, the LUMIX DMC-G1 digital camera.

The new LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S., available as part of the kit with the DMC-GH1, or separately, incorporates an inner focus direct-drive linear motor for focusing. This allows fast and accurate contrast auto focus (AF) to operate smoothly and silently – a necessity for video recording. Adopting the Micro Four Thirds System standard, the new LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. offers a long zoom of 14-140mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-280mm), suitable for a wide range of shooting situations – from scenery to portraits to telephoto shots – all possible with a compact and lightweight lens.

The LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. uses four aspherical lenses and two ED lenses to achieves dramatic downsizing – despite its powerful 10x optical zoom – and still minimizes distortion and chromatic aberration. Panasonic's Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) is incorporated in the lens, making it easy to shoot clear shots even in telephoto shooting or in low-light situations – as this feature minimizes blur caused by hand shake.

Panasonic's other new lens, the ultra-wide-angle zoom interchangeable lens LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH features an astonishingly wide-angle zoom range of 7-14mm (35mm camera equivalent; 14-28mm). Its compact and lightweight size makes it easy for users to carry while they are on the go. Taking advantage of its 114-degree wide-angle view, users can fit more subjects in a frame – even when the shooting distance is limited, for example, while shooting indoors. This expansive view gives users great flexibility and a rich perspective when shooting photos or video.

The high-performing, yet lightweight LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH. achieves its compact size by incorporating two aspherical lenses and four ED lenses in a unit of 16 elements in 12 groups. The resolution of the images is high, even at its wide-end and features F4.0 brightness through its entire zoom range thanks to a large diameter glass-molded lens embedded within the body.

When both of these news lenses are mounted on the LUMIX DMC-GH1, users can take advantage of the advanced contrast AF system including Face Recognition, offering a variety of convenient and fun shooting. Seven aperture blades give the aperture a rounded shape that, when shooting at a larger aperture, produces an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas. Featuring highly-durable metal mounts, the new lenses use multicoated lens elements to reduce ghosting and flares, helping to deliver a positive user-experience – whether shooting HD videos or taking beautiful digital photos.

Via Panasonic press release

Buy a Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Lumix G Vario 14-45 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH Mega OIS Lens (Black)

Tokina AT-X 16.5-135mm f/3.5-5.6 DX Wide-Range Lens

THK Photo Products, Inc., announced the Tokina AT-X 16.5-135 DX, is a 16.5-135mm f/3.5-5.6 AF lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras with APS-C sensors. This lens gives the digital photographer an ultra wide-range zoom lens that has the equivalent angle of view to a 25-200mm.

This Tokina compact super wide zoom range begins at 16.5mm and offers the photographer a wider angle of view than most lenses in its class that start at 18mm. This makes the lens better suited for scenic and travel photography in addition to being a great standard lens for most general photography situations.

The AT-X 16.5-135 DX’s optical design benefits from the latest advances in the industry. Three aspherical elements, one all glass precision-molded element and 2 compound elements yield high contrast. Additionally two Super-low Dispersion (SD) glass elements correct chromatic aberration.

The AT-X 16.5-135 DX has a newly designed high-precision mechanical zoom cam system minimizes play and eliminates zoom creep.

Via Nikon Rumors

Samsung launches NX Series to compete with Micro Four Thirds

Via PCMag:

Like the Micro Four-Thirds standard, the NX Series will not use a mirror box - the difference between these new compact DSLRs and a true DSLR, which uses a mirror box to reflect the image from the lens to the viewfinder. Like the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1, the Samsung NX Series will offer an electronic viewfinder (EVF) in place of a real viewfinder. The EVF is actually a tiny high resolution LCD screen placed in the viewfinder window.

Though Samsung's camera will have smaller dimensions, the NX series will not sacrifice image quality because it will use the same size image sensor that the company will use in its DSLR cameras. These larger sensors deliver lower amounts of noise and higher dynamic range when compared to smaller sensors found in point-and-shoot cameras. The Micro Four-Thirds standard also uses the same large image sensors found in Panasonic and Olympus DLSRs, which adhere to the older "Four Thirds" standard.

Samsung left a few unanswered questions about the new camera series. First, we don't know whether the NX series will support interchangeable lenses like both DSLRs and Micro Four-Thirds. There's also no word on what type of focusing system it will use. DSLR cameras use auto-focusing systems called "phase detection," which is typically faster than a point-and-shoot camera's auto-focusing systems which are called "contrast measurement." However the Micro Four-Thirds standard uses a new contrast measurement focusing system that can achieve focusing speeds that are competitive with phase detection.

Also check out the Samsung NX official page and press release info at Samsung.

Samsung Digital Imaging Co., Ltd. used PMA 2009 as the global launching pad for the NX Series, the company’s revolutionary new family of hybrid digital cameras. A new concept digital camera, the NX Series offers the performance and image quality of a DSLR and the portability and convenience of a compact point-and-shoot. With the NX Series, Samsung will become a global leader in the new hybrid market.

Samsung’s new NX Series bridges the gap between a DSLR and compact point-and-shoot digital camera by combining the benefits of both in one new model. Like conventional DSLRs, the NX Series utilizes an APS C sized image sensor providing a much larger surface area to gather light and produce higher-quality images than comparable digital camera systems. Unlike a DSLR, the NX Series does not feature a mirror box and employs an ultra-precise Electronic Viewfinder (EVF). The use of an EVF has allowed Samsung engineers to significantly reduce the size and weight of the new camera system by decreasing the distance between the lens and image sensor (flange back) by approximately 60% compared to traditional DSLRs. In addition to utilizing the EVF, consumers can also take advantage of the camera’s Live View functionality to frame their shots on the NX Series’ high resolution screen.

Samsung has recently intensified its focus on the digital imaging market and established a separate company dedicated exclusively to digital imaging in Samsung Digital Imaging Company. The new company was formed to focus on the development of its digital still cameras around world’s first and best in class features, design, and easy-to-use interfaces, and will work towards achieving the company’s stated goal of becoming the world’s leading digital imaging company.

Mamiya DL33 medium size DSLR

Gizmodo says:
Medium format wizards Mamiya are continuing their legacy of huge-sensored digicams with the new DL33—33 megapixels spread across a 36mm x 48mm sensor, which is twice the size of a full-frame DSLR's chip.

From the Mamiya press release page:

Success of Mamiya DL28 Spawns Bigger Brother

The successful introduction of the Mamiya DL28, in addition to requests from professional photographers throughout the U.S., has prompted Mamiya America to announce the next level in high-end digital camera systems – the Mamiya DL33.

“In the world of medium format digital photography, many photographers have to choose between price and performance,” states Jeff Karp, Mamiya Product Marketing Manager. “The new Mamiya DL33 Digital Camera System offers the best of both worlds by providing medium format performance at a price that serious photographers can afford.”

The Mamiya DL33 Digital Camera System offers professional features and benefits that are not found in other camera systems. For example, even though the DL33’s resolution is an impressive 33 Megapixels, its large sensor allows a pixel size of 7.2 microns. At 36 x 48mm, the DL33’s sensor is twice the size of full frame DSLR cameras. Larger pixels also produce images with unmatched richness and color accuracy, smooth, subtle transitions from tone to tone and striking highlight and shadow detail. In addition, the larger format produces images with a more three-dimensional look. The 3.5-inch touch screen, the largest in the industry, offers a bright, high-contrast display ideal for outdoor or indoor work.

The DL33 combines the professionally proven Mamiya 645AFD III camera system with the innovative 33 megapixel Aptus-II 7 Digital Back from Leaf. Together they work as an integral unit with an intuitive ease that virtually any photographer will appreciate. The 645AFD III body has a new coreless motor for faster, more accurate autofocusing and an enhanced interface system that provides total communication between the camera, lens and digital back.

With 16-bit capture, 12-stop dynamic range and an ISO range of 50-800, the Mamiya DL33 is a full-featured professional digital solution. The 33 MP back produces a huge 67Mb RAW file that can be converted into jpegs, 8-bit or 16-bit tiff files (a 16-bit tiff file is 190 Mb). Files of this quality deliver the information needed for striking enlargements of virtually any size. And for those times when you can’t get close enough to your subject, you’ll have the confidence to crop a small portion of the image without a noticeable loss in quality.

In addition to using the included Leaf Capture 11.2 software, you can also open Leaf RAW files with commonly used programs including Adobe Photoshop CS3/4 (with the latest version of ACR software), Lightroom 2 and Apple Aperture 2.

When utilizing the fastest compact flash media storage currently available, the Aptus II 7 back can capture images at approximately 1 frame per second. You can also use the included FireWire cable and Leaf Capture 11.2 software to shoot directly to your computer.

“Many digital photographers are realizing that they need the increased performance that only medium format can offer,” says Karp. “That’s why Mamiya is continuing to receive requests for higher resolution digital systems. With the new Mamiya DL33, we can satisfy their demands today.”

Buy Mamiya - Wide-angle lens - 50 mm - f/4.5 ULD

Sony Alpha A900 at the Dakar Rally

image illustration only

Polish photographer Jacek Bonecki has an interesting article about his experience with the A900 in different conditions, including studio photography, rainy Spain and the dust and sands of the African deserts. Pretty cool article with grat shots, check it out here.

In addition to having excellent technical parameters, professional equipment should be durable and resistant to various factors hazardous to its proper operation, even if this is provided at the cost of its appearance, technological advancement or price. The first serious test for the Sony DSLR A900 as a reportage and sport photography tool was a golf tournament in sunny Spain where it survived pouring rain, however the real test came in Argentina and Chile during the Dakar Rally.

Olympus E-30 DSLR review

UK-based Photography Press site has a review of the E-30 DSLR form Olympus. Here's what they say:

Olympus’ first and newest pro-consumer DSLR, the E-30, sits beneath the E-3, sat at the top of the Olympus FourThirds System range and above the E-520 and more effectively bridges a gap for Olympus aficionados between the keen snappers and enthusiasts.

The E-30 looks similar to the E-3 but lacks the weather sealing and ruggedised build of the pro model, the E-30 sporting a well crafted and sculpted hand grip on a surprisingly large body, more or less as big as the E-3.

But the E-30 sports a few new features the E-3 would be proud to have within its toughened body. For a start the sensor has a new 12.3-megapixel LiveMOS sensor so the first thing to say is yes, you get Live View (more on this later) and the second is, despite the boost in resolution, image quality in terms of noise remains impressive.

Read the full review here.

Buy an Olympus E30 12.3MP Digital SLR with Image Stabilization (Body Only)

Rumors Of Canon EOS 500D

Ubergizmo over here says:

Word on the street has it that Canon will be introducing a brand new DSLR from the Rebel range known as the EOS 500D. It seems that the Canon EOS 500D will come with a 15-megapixel sensor, a DIGIC IV imaging processor, ISO levels of up to a whopping 12,800, and an articulating LCD display with 900k resolution as well as a 1080p movie mode which will be an extension of the 5D Mark II and similar to the one found in the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1. Just remember to take all those information with a pinch of salt as nothing is finalized just yet.

Olympus DSLR class

Do you want to be able to take pictures like the pros? Do you use your DSLR camera to its fullest potential? Join The Olympus Digital SLR Photography School on March 15, at the New York Marriott East Side. Sign up today for either the morning or afternoon session of this interesting and affordable class ... space is limited so don't miss out!

Check this page for details and registration.

Via Olympus announcement.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 review

Australian site Smarthouse has a review of the Panasonic DMC-G1, an entry level DSLR camera aimed at beginners in the single lens reflex camera world. Here's a bit from what they wrote:

The Panasonic Lumix G1 is a great camera for first time DSLR users - it functions and feels like a DSLR but has digital camera functions that will make shooting fun and easy. And with its small and light form factor, this camera can be taken in trips without being a burden to users.

Despite having the features of a DSLR, users will find that the G1 is easy to operate. The 3-inch LCD screen can be flipped and rotated, allowing a user to take pictures from various angles. The camera also comes with various scene modes (Portrait, Scenery, Sports, Macro, and Night) and a simple iA (Intelligent Auto) mode to further simplify camera use. Also available on the G1 are the usual advanced modes (Aperture-priority, Shutter-priority, Manual exposure, Custom mode) found on other DSLRs in the market.

Read the full review here or buy a Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera Kit

Olympus E-620 delayed in Japan

Slashgear has this rumor here: previously scheduled to set free this weekend in Japan, Olympus has postponed their only DSLR announced in 2009 so far – Evolt E-620 – to March 20, details not disclosed.

Sony DSLR sensor rates between Canon and Nikon

French company DxO labs recently made public their test findings on some of the most popular low to mid range DSLR cameras. The results were quite surprising and Sony must be pleased with what they found. Keep in mind that DxO uses their own special measurement system, and that they were only comparing statistics on the sensors. Their results show that the sensor in the Sony A700 is better then the Canon 40D and 50D, and almost ties with the Pentax K10D and Nikon D300.

Via CrunchGear via Underexposed

Sigma 10-20mm F3.5 EX DC HSM launched

This super-wide angle lens has a maximum aperture of F3.5 throughout the entire zoom range.

With its wide angle view from 102.4 degrees it can produce striking images with exaggerated perspective. The maximum aperture of F3.5 is ideal for indoor shooting and it enables photographers to emphasize the subject. Two ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass elements and a SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element provide excellent correction of color aberration. Four aspherical lenses provide correction for distortion and allow compact and lightweight construction. The Super Multi-Layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. The incorporation of HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet and high-speed auto focus as well as full-time manual focusing capability. This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 9.4 inches (24cm) throughout the entire zoom range and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:6.6. The lens design incorporates an inner focusing system which eliminates front lens rotation, making the lens particularly suitable for using the Petal-type hood and polarizing filter. The Petal-type hood blocks extraneous light and reduces internal reflection.

Via Sigma News

Sigma launches SD15 DSLR

The newest addition to the Sigma SD series of SLR cameras is powered by the 14 mega pixel Foveon X3 direct-image sensor making it possible to capture all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location and is arranged in three layers. The developing SD15 incorporates the “True II” new image processing engine. It provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images, rich in gradation and impressive three-dimensional detail. Incorporation of the large 3.0 inch LCD monitor and improved processing speed provide ease of operation.

Since October 2002, Sigma has introduced three digital SLR cameras, the SD9, SD10 and SD14. In March, 2008, Sigma also introduced a high end compact digital camera, the DP1 which uses the same large image sensor as is featured in Sigma’s digital SLR cameras. They have established a strong following from a wide range of photographers, both amateur and professional. Photographers expressed a desire to incorporate the image processing engine “TRUE”, which is used in the DP1, into a digital SLR camera. In order to meet this demand, the SD15, with the high resolution direct image sensor, has been designed around the new “TRUE II” image processing engine. This combination delivers superior image quality as well as improved processing speed, operation and performance.

Via divephotoguide, Sigma press release

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX available in the US

NikonRumors says that B&H is now accepting orders for the new Nikon lens called Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/606792-USA/Nikon_2183_35mm_f_1_8G_NIKKOR_DX.html

Via NikonRumors

Canon announces the new PIXMA Pro 9000 Mark II Professional Photo Inkjet Printer

High Performance Photo Printing up to 13" x 19" for Professional Quality.
Prepared to step-up and produce professional quality photo prints? The PIXMA Pro9000 Mark II possesses the functionality and technology you need for high-quality output so you can be the photographer you've always wanted to be. Its 8-color ink system widens your color palette along with advanced Easy-PhotoPrint Pro software to fine tune your prints plus Ambient Light Correction¹ which optimizes color output to match the specified lighting condition you would display in. This fantastic printer does all of this and more while supporting Canon Fine Art Photo Papers up to 13" x 19" with two separate paper paths, including a front feeder for heavyweight paper types.

Terrific Resolution —This level of quality is achieved by 4800 x 2400 maximum color dpi³ thanks to Canon Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering (FINE) with a patented printhead firing ink droplets as small as 2pl. This delivers professional quality and detail for all of your photos.

High-Performance Individual Ink System —This 8-color dye-based system features Photo Cyan, Photo Magenta and Red ink tanks for incredible colors bringing your images to life.

ChromaLife100 — For true printers of photos, this brilliant system combines FINE Technology with genuine Canon papers and inks which promotes outstanding color vividness and long-lasting prints for up to 100 years when stored in an archival quality photo album.

Check the PIXMA Pro9000 Mark II page at Canon USA.

Buy a Canon Pixma Pro9000 Professional Large Format Inkjet Printer (9995A001)

News via Canon press release.

Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH. Ultra Wide Angle

Taking advantage of its wide, 114-degree angle of view, users can easily fit subjects into the frame even when shooting indoors where the distance is limited. The world looks extraordinary when viewed through the new lens, allowing photos and movies to be recorded with a uniquely rich perspective.

This high-performance lens system achieves outstanding compactness by combining 16 lens elements in 12 groups, including two aspherical lenses and four ED lenses. Image resolution is high from corner-to-corner even at the wide-angle setting. It also features F4.0 brightness over the entire zoom range thanks to its large-diameter glass moulded lens elements.

When mounted on the DMC-GH1 Lumix G Micro System Camera, the new lens allows use of the advanced contrast AF system, which includes a Face Recognition function, for more convenient, more enjoyable shooting. Seven blades give the aperture a rounded shape that produces an attractively smooth effect in out-of-focus areas when shooting at larger aperture settings. The LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH lens also features a highly reliable metal mount, and uses multi-coated lens elements that minimize ghosts and flare to further enhance its optical performance. The optimally designed lens hood enables use even under strong sunlight.

From Panasonic press release/web

Panasonic DMC-GH1: D-SLR Photo Quality and Full-HD Movies

The new DMC-GH1 is called a CREATIVE HD HYBRID because it records not only high-quality photos but also high definition 1080/24p or smooth 720/60p HD (High Definition) movies in AVCHD* format. Continuous AF can be used while recording movies, to further boost operating ease. Taking advantage of its system camera design, the DMC-GH1 features the potential for unlimited photo expression by allowing the use of different lenses for specific shooting situations and subjects. High-quality sound recording with Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator and a host of other creative options, including manual settings, giving the DMC-GH1 even greater versatility.

In addition to its high levels of performance for both photos and movies, the DMC-GH1 incorporates the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode,** a hallmark of LUMIX cameras that now includes Face Recognition,*** a function that "remembers" faces once the faces are registered. When a familiar face appears in the frame, the camera will prioritize the focus and exposure to capture it beautifully. This clever function makes it easy to get sharp and clear photos of special subjects in a group of people. iA mode is also available in movie recording. It automatically selects the most suitable scene mode and helps to correct hand-shake, focus and brightness problems -- making it a one-stop solution for capturing beautiful photos and movies.*

Operating ease is an important element of the LUMIX G Micro System identity, and it is highly evident in the DMC-GH1. For example, the clever design of the DMC-GH1 helps to prevent missed shooting opportunities for both photo and movie recording. To start recording a movie during shooting photos, the user simply presses a special, one-touch movie recording button. Most of the settings used for photo shooting carry over to movie recording without requiring any additional setting.

Via Panasonic Press Release

Panasonic today introduces two new lenses for its LUMIX G Micro System

Panasonic introduced two new lenses for its LUMIX G Micro System – the innovative digital interchangeable lens camera system – the LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. and the LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH. Both lenses are compatible with the newly announced LUMIX DMC-GH1 digital camera, which can record High Definition (HD) AVCHD 1080/24p video, and its award-winning sister camera, the LUMIX DMC-G1 digital camera.

“Panasonic is excited and proud to expand our LUMIX G Micro System – with the addition of these two new Micro Four Thirds lenses, as well as the LUMIX DMC-GH1, which can record superb High Definition video, “said David Briganti, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “We firmly believe that consumers of all skill levels can benefit from the advanced features we are able to pack into these new compact lenses and camera bodies.”

Click photo to download hi-res version

The new LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S., available as part of the kit with the DMC-GH1, or separately, incorporates an inner focus direct-drive linear motor for focusing. This allows fast and accurate contrast auto focus (AF) to operate smoothly and silently – a necessity for video recording. Adopting the Micro Four Thirds System standard, the new LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. offers a long zoom of 14-140mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-280mm), suitable for a wide range of shooting situations – from scenery to portraits to telephoto shots – all possible with a compact and lightweight lens.

The LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. uses four aspherical lenses and two ED lenses to achieves dramatic downsizing – despite its powerful 10x optical zoom – and still minimizes distortion and chromatic aberration. Panasonic's Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) is incorporated in the lens, making it easy to shoot clear shots even in telephoto shooting or in low-light situations – as this feature minimizes blur caused by hand shake.

Click photo to download hi-res version.

Panasonic’s other new lens, the ultra-wide-angle zoom interchangeable lens LUMIX G VARIO

7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH features an astonishingly wide-angle zoom range of 7-14mm (35mm camera equivalent; 14-28mm). Its compact and lightweight size makes it easy for users to carry while they are on the go. Taking advantage of its 114-degree wide-angle view, users can fit more subjects in a frame – even when the shooting distance is limited, for example, while shooting indoors. This expansive view gives users great flexibility and a rich perspective when shooting photos or video.

The high-performing, yet lightweight LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH. achieves its compact size by incorporating two aspherical lenses and four ED lenses in a unit of 16 elements in 12 groups. The resolution of the images is high, even at its wide-end and features F4.0 brightness through its entire zoom range thanks to a large diameter glass-molded lens embedded within the body.

When both of these news lenses are mounted on the LUMIX DMC-GH1, users can take advantage of the advanced contrast AF system including Face Recognition, offering a variety of convenient and fun shooting. Seven aperture blades give the aperture a rounded shape that, when shooting at a larger aperture, produces an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas. Featuring highly-durable metal mounts, the new lenses use multicoated lens elements to reduce ghosting and flares, helping to deliver a positive user-experience – whether shooting HD videos or taking beautiful digital photos. For more information, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

From Panasonic press release