Canon 500D/T1i DSLR reviewed by CameraLabs

Read Gordon Laing's full review of the Canon T1i at cameralabs.com

Canon’s EOS 500D – or Rebel T1i as it’s known in North America – is the company’s latest entry-to-mid-level DSLR and the successor to the hugely popular EOS 450D / Rebel XSi. Announced towards the end of March 2009, the 500D / T1i externally resembles its predecessor with exactly the same dimensions and similar weight, but inherits a number of features from the higher-end EOS 50D and EOS 5D Mark II models; it also becomes the company’s second DSLR to feature HD video recording.

The EOS 500D / Rebel T1i features a jump from the 12.2 Megapixels of its predecessor to the same 15.1 Megapixels as the semi-pro EOS 50D. Canon describes the sensor as being almost the same as the 50D's, and indeed it also shares the same 100-12800 ISO sensitivity range and 14-bit processing.

Buy a Canon EOS Rebel T1i 15.1 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

Panasonic updates firmware for LUMIX G VARIO lens

A new firmware was released for the LUMIX G interchangeable lens LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS014045).

Users will be able to download the latest firmware ver.1.1 from Panasonic support sites. The firmware includes improvement of auto focus performance in AFC mode for taking photos. It also enhances performance of auto focusing and stability of O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) while reducing noise of aperture control for taking movies when mounted on DMC-GH1(Except for FHD mode).

The new firmware was released worldwide at GMT: 6:00 25th of May, 2009 at http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/.

Buy a Panasonic 45-200mm f/4.0-5.6 Lumix G Vario MEGA OIS Zoom Lens for Panasonic Digital SLR Cameras

News via Panasonic

DSLR Remote iPhone App Remotely Controls Canon DSLR Cameras

James Kendrick at jkOnTheRunhas an interesting blog entry about this new iPhone app.

onOne Software is putting the finishing touches on a new iPhone application that acts as a remote cable release for Canon DSLR cameras.

So the new software doesn’t just remotely snap the camera shutter; it also supports setting controls like aperture, shutter speed and white balance. Plus, it taps into the Live View mode of many Canon models, so you can remotely view the scene right on your iPhone. The software works over Wi-Fi and requires that your Camera be USB-tethered to a Mac or PC. The computer will run a small server application to make the connection between your handset and your DSLR. The above pic shows a great use for the remote shutter snap — Mike Wong does his best Air Jordan impression while Dan Harlacher snaps the image remotely. This vid shows the setup for that shoot, using the DSLR Remote software. Interesting that they used an Acer Aspire One netbook for the PC component here, although that makes sense because it’s light and relatively inexpensive.

onOne expects to set a $19.95 selling price, but there should be an intro deal at half that cost. I’m sure to take a peek at this when it hits, although the T1i isn’t yet listed as a supported camera. Maybe I should hold on to that XSi for a few weeks yet?

Supported models: Digital Rebel XT, Rebel XTi, Rebel XS, Rebel XSi, 20D, 30D, 40D, 50D, 5D, 5D Mark II, 1D Mark II, Mark IIn, Mark III, 1Ds Mark II, Mark III.

Via jkontherun, onOne

Article: Beginner's Guide to Concert Photography

Tyler Groover at Examiner.com has an interesting article describing the tricks and secrets of good concert photography. The article covers everything from getting access to the venue, equipment tips, flash use, lenses and camera tips.

Here's some information for the budding concert photographer. The information here is directed toward the photographer/blogger on a budget shooting small to medium venues but using a DSLR (digital single lens reflex) camera. By no means is this an exhaustive guide. Where possible, links to other great resources are provided.

Read the full article at examiner.com

Nikon awardded for best-selling DSLR in Malaysia

Nikon Malaysia Sdn Bhd has been presented with the GfK No. 1 Award for the best-selling Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera category in Malaysia.

This signifies that Nikon is the best-selling brand of DSLRs in the country. The award was based on unit sales for the period January to December 2008.

Stephen Ng, general manager of Nikon Malaysia, said DSLR cameras are becoming more affordable and more consumers are realising the potential of digital photography.

“Over the past two years, the market trend in Malaysia has made a prominent shift toward DSLRs (primarily because of those factors),” he said.

Ng said Nikon Malaysia is striving to maintain its pole position by continuing to field innovative products, maintaining brand reputation and staying competitive with its pricing.

In this vein, it has just launched its feature-packed D5000 DSLR into the Malaysian market. One highlight of the new camera is that it has a swivelling LCD panel which makes it easier for photographers to overcome hard-to-shoot angles.

Nikon’s D5000 can also shoot video — quite a feature when you consider that DSLRs have a bigger image sensor that that found on traditional handycams.

Via star-techcentral.com

Canon announces manual exposure video control for EOS 5D Mark II

Canon announced a firmware upgrade that will add full manual exposure control for video — including ISO, aperture, and shutter speed — to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II. The mid-range professional dSLR has been lauded for its excellent HD video capture capabilities (1920×1080,16:9 at 30 fps) since its release last September, but after everyone got over the initial excitement of getting near-professional-quality HD video from a dSLR, folks immediately started complaining about the lack of manual controls in video mode. The newsletter, in the form of a mock movie poster, indicates that there has been popular demand for manual controls, and that the new update will leave “no need to compromise with inferior workarounds.”

A press release from Canon Europe, provided a few more details, listing a June 2 date for download from Canon Europe’s support web site and stating that the manual controls when shooting video would include full aperture selection, ISO speeds from 100 to 6400 and H1, and shutter speed ranging from 1/30th to 1/4000th of a second.

Canon did not announce plans to add similar functionality to its other video-shooting SLR, the EOS Rebel T1i, but entry-level consumer users of the T1i may be less inclined to use manual controls for video.

Via ZDNet / Janice Chen

Sony a500 and a550 rumored

sonystyle.ca offers some interesting choices when you attempt to register your new Sony camera:

DSLRA350KCF
DSLRA380L
DSLRA380S
DSLRA500
DSLRA500S
DSLRA550
DSLRA550S
DSLRA700
DSLRA700P
DSLRA900

Via http://photorumors.com/

Limited Edition White Nikon D3 DSLR

Fake or true, it looks awesome. Great for weddings or snow camouflage.
Via NikonRumors

Voigtlander Nokton 50mm f/1.1 details

PhotoRumors website has some info on this cool Voigtlander lens.

Here are the specs:

• Focal: 50 mm
• Luminous: 1.1
• Minimum Aperture: 16
• Picture Angle: 45.9 °
• Construction: 7 elements in 6 groups
• Minimum setting distance: 1 m
• Filter size: 58 mm
• Dimensions: 69.6 x57, 2 mm (length x diameter)
• Weight: 428 g
• Lens mount: VM Bayonet

Panasonic announces New Accessories for Lumix G Micro System

Two new adaptors were announced, the M Mount Adaptor DMW-MA2M and R Mount Adaptor DMW-MA3R, to further enhance the photographic experience with cameras from the Lumix G Micro System.

The M Mount Adaptor and R Mount Adaptor are developed under support of Leica Camera AG, making it possible to attach Leica M lenses (DMW-MA2M) or R lenses (DMW-MA3R) on DMC-G1 and DMC-GH1. Users can enjoy outstanding image rendering offered by the combination of high quality Leica lenses and Lumix G cameras that are full of Panasonic's cutting edge digital technologies. These adaptors also allow users to use the movable MF assist function, which enlarges the selected area when focusing manually.

Via Panasonic UK news

Cnet Asia compares top 5 entry-level DSLR cameras

Leonard Goh at CNET Asia has a new comparison chart and article on the top 5 entry-level DSLRs. If you plan buying a camera or upgrading from a point and shoot model, check out the article Top 5 entry-level dSLRs

It's a natural progression for shutterbugs to upgrade from point-and-shoots to dSLRs if they wish to further their skills in photography. The advantage which dSLRs have over most compact digicams is that they allow users to have more control over the exposure by changing the shutter speed and aperture. In addition, you can change lenses and attach various accessories for different shooting situations.

But it is unwise for amateurs to splurge on high-end dSLRs such as the Nikon D3x. For beginners, an entry-level model will more than suffice. Some of these snappers come with HD-quality-video recording function which was previously reserved for only midrange dSLRs.

Here are our top picks for entry-level dSLRs on the market now. If you still can't decide which one to get, stop over at our dSLR buying guide for more tips on choosing one for your needs.

The models featured in the article are:

• Canon EOS 500D


• Nikon D5000


• Sony Alpha DSLR-A380


• Olympus E-620


• Canon EOS 1000D

Buy Canon EOS Rebel T1i 15.1 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

Buy Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD

Buy Sony Alpha DSLRA300X 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 & DT 55-200mm f/4-5.6 Zoom Lenses

Buy Olympus Evolt E620 12.3MP Live MOS Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch Swivel LCD w/ 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 ED Zuiko Lenses

Buy Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black)

Sony A330 DSLR in awesome Copper Brown

The copper brown version of the A330 has a metallic dark copper shade on the top, brown shaded plastic on the textured front, and a black back. Its grip surfaces are brown, and the metallic surfaces — including those of the kit lens body — are a copper/brown color. According to Imaging Resource (in their brilliant hands-on A330 review), “Sony spoke with many focus groups, and this color combination was chosen overwhelmingly among the colors offered. One of the reasons given was that black lenses looked pretty good with the copper brown body, so people were most pleased with the color.” The copper brown version, model number DSLR-A330L/T, carries the same $849 price tag, is sold in the one-lens kit only, and will be available in Fall 2009. These pictures are the highest resolution available (click for larger version) from Sony Japan, while the real life shots were cherrypicked from Sony Fan.

Buy a Sony Alpha A330L 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot INSIDE Image Stabilization and 18-55mm Lens

See more pictures and info at SonyInsider

Pentax K-7 High-End DSLR

The 14.6-megapixel Pentax K-7 boasts a 23.4-by-15.6mm CMOS sensor, which the company says offers new video capabilities and four-channel output, as well as better low-light performance. The K-7 has an ISO range of 100 to 6400.

The K-7 also offers an 11-point autofocus system, a revamped metering system that features 77 light-metering points, a built-in flash, and the new Prime II image processor. Shutter speeds range from 1/8000 second to 30 seconds.

The high-end DSLR also features the same user interface as the lower-end K2000 DSLR, as well as body-based image stabilization. That sensor-shifting system means that the K-7's shake reduction feature will work with any Pentax K-mount lens, not just more-expensive stabilized lenses. A supersonic dust-removing vibration system is also part of the K-7's feature set.

The K-7's 3-inch-diagonal LCD features live view, the ability to use the larger display as a viewfinder in addition to the camera's traditional optical viewfinder. Pentax is also touting the K-7's viewfinder as having a field of view of 100 percent and heralds the K-7 as a highly weather-resistant camera, thanks to an entirely weather-sealed and weather-proofed body.

Check out more at PCWorld

Redrock DSLR 2.0 hybrid rigs

Redrock Micro, the leading provider of cinema accessories for digital filmmakers, today announced the Redrock's DSLR 2.0 hybrid support rigs won the Best of Show Black Diamond Awards handed out at the 2009 NAB Show. The DV Black Diamond Awards recognize outstanding achievement in the advancement of the art and science of video technology.

And BTW, awesome haircut, dude.

One video DSLR support system for all your shooting styles

The award-winning DSLR 2.0 hybrid support rigs reocgnize that video DSLRs change the game when it comes to shooting styles and situations. No longer encumbered by large heavy cameras, DSLR cinema can shoot anytime, any place, discreetly and without drawing attention. Switching between motion and still photography is a snap, and your support rig needs to quickly adapt to the various shooting styles enabled by these small cameras. The Redrock DSLR 2.0 hybrid support rigs meet the need by providing cinema-quality.

Ultra lightweight and ultra portable for discreet shooting

The Redrock DSLR 2.0 hybrid rigs are a new level of portability and lightweight for still and cinema-style shooting rigs. At the heart of this system is the unique patent-pending DSLR baseplate: a lightweight connector to connect the DSLR to 15mm rails as the backbone of any setup. The DSLR baseplate has set screws to eliminate camera rotation for using accessories such as the microFollowFocus. As a result, full size accessories are avoided, minimizing weight without sacrificing features.


Complete Rigs, or Roll Your Own

Whatever your shooting style, the DSLR 2.0 rigs can meet your need. We've created some of the most popular configurations as one-stop packaged solutions. If you want something a little different you can purchase individual components and build your own unique rig.

Future-proof accessories

All DSLR 2.0 rigs are based on cinema standards wherever possible, including the important specs such as 15mm rails, film pitch gearing, and standard filter sizes. Virtually all components can also be used with video cameras, Red cameras (such as Scarlet) and other DSLRs. This keeps your Redrock gear working for you now and into the future.


Revolutionary Pricing

In keeping with Redrock's philosophy of affordable ownership, DSLR 2.0 hybrid support rigs can be purchased for hundreds, not thousands, of dollars. YOu can also add components as your needs grow to adapt your equipment to your evolving shooting style and equipment.

Via Sys-Con, Redrock Micro

Pentax to unveil "The New K" on May 20

If you're a Pentax fan, mark your calendar for May 20. You can also check out the site to see how much time is left before the company unveils its mystery surprise.

Make sure you check http://www.pentaximaging.com/ and stare at the countdown long enough.

Canon EOS 500D/T1i Reviewed

Mark Goldstein at PhotographyBlog.com has a review of the Canon EOS 500D.

With the addition of full HD video, a greatly-expanded ISO range and a fantastically high-res LCD screen, the new Canon EOS 500D / Digital Rebel T1i has graduated to the ranks of mid-range, prosumer DSLR. Add an increased price-tag of $799.99 / £869.99, and this can no longer be considered an entry-level model, with a feature set and cost that in many ways equals and even surpasses the higher-in-the-range EOS 50D model. The 500D's handling certainly isn't as good, with a body that's still a little too small for average to large-sized hands, but for many people the inclusion of full HD video will more than compensate for that.

Buy a Canon EOS Rebel T1i 15.1 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

Read the full review at photographyblog.com.

Sony Alpha 230, 330 and 380 dSLR details

CNet Crave blog writer Rich Trenholm has some fresh info on the new line of Sony DSLR cameras, namely the 230, 330 and the 380.

The A230 is a lightweight, entry-level model. The top-end A380 and middle child A330 boast flip-out screens. All three boast HDMI output to TVs, but do not appear to shoot video of any definition. Features shown include a new user interface, showing aperture and shutter speed on a sliding scale, pictured left.

The leaked pages mention APS-C format sensors, presumably for all three cameras. The sensors are protected by a dual dust-reduction system. Sony's Bionz sensor handles the thinking, while a dynamic range opimizer handles tricky, contrasty images to keep detail in both highlights and shadows.

Another feature is a smart teleconverter, which magnifies the image by 1.4x or 2x on the camera's screen, for more precise focusing. We also like the look of a 40-segment metering system, pictured right.

Finally, Sony has gone all green, pointing out that the cameras' shells are made using polycarbonate byproducts of CD-ROM manufacturing. Very reassuring. It also appears that one--or all--of the cameras supports two types of memory card. We've got our fingers crossed for SD cards, but we'll settle for CompactFlash, like the Alpha A300, alongside those pesky Sony Memory Sticks.

Via Crave

Buy a Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 Di LD Macro Zoom Lens for Konica Minolta and Sony Digital SLR Cameras

Olympus E-620 Underwater Housing

When Olympus released the new E-620 DSLR earlier this year, we were originally misinformed about the lack of an underwater housing for the model. In fact, we are happy top hear that Olympus is continuing to support the underwater photography community by manufacturing housings for their line of DSLR's. Olympus is the only camera manufacturer that does. Kudos to them for that.

Via Dive Photo Guide

Buy an Olympus Evolt E620 12.3MP Live MOS Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch Swivel LCD w/ 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 ED Zuiko Lenses

50 Lighting Setups For Portrait Photographers book reviewed

Ed Tang at CameraLabs.com has a new book review. Check it out.

Lighting is something that a professional photographer always considers. “50 Lighting Setups For Portrait Photographers”, published in December 2008, is written by freelance photographer Steven Begleiter.

With twenty five years of professional photographic experience, this book aims to share many of Begleiter's past portraiture assignments and the manner in which he decided on his lighting.

I have to say that this is an unconventional photographic book, taking a feel that is more suited to a recipe book.

Indeed Begleiter uses a simile in his introduction that: 'photographic lighting, like cooking, has “recipes.” And this is indeed that.

Read the full 50 Lighting Setups For Portrait Photographers book review at cameralabs.com

Pentax K-7 more info

Via PhotoRumors.com via DSLRMagazine/translation.

* Pentax K-7 will be the top of the line DLSR
* it will be an APS-C camera
* it will be able to use medium format lenses (developed for the upcoming Pentax 645) with an adapter
* it will have a optical glass pentaprism (Hoya), upper LCD and dial to choose professional modes, with central lock
* no built-in flash
* it might incorporate the possibility of showing simultaneously (on the optical viewfinder) information about other functions, such as live histogram or even… Live-View and video with the mirror lockup (wow!).

Olympus DSLR rebates in May with up to $200 in savings

Save Up to $200 on Select Digital SLRs in May!

May is National Photo Month! To celebrate, Olympus is offering huge Instant Rebates on the following popular digital SLRs. Offers valid now through May 31.

* E-620 Body $599.99 after $100 instant rebate
* E-620 One-Lens Kit (with 14-42mm) $699.99 after $100 instant rebate
* E-620 Two-Lens Kit (14-42mm and 40-150mm) $799 after $100 instant rebate
* E-520 SuperZoom Kit (14-42mm + 70-300mm) $799 after $100 instant rebate
* E-30 Body $999.99 after $100 instant rebate.
* E-30 with 14-42mm $1,099.99 after $100 instant rebate.
* E-30 with 14-54mm II $1,399.99 after $200 instant rebate.
* E-30 with 12-60mm $1,799.99 after $200 instant rebate.

Prices may vary. Valid only at participating retailers. For complete details or to purchase, please contact an Olympus Authorized Dealer or Olympus Premier Dealer.

Via Olympus America

Canon Live Learning: to empower and inspire

Canon Live Learning Inspires Attendees to Develop Their Personal Creative Vision

Lake Success, N.Y., May 12, 2009 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the launch of Canon Live Learning, a new on-site education program targeted towards photographers who currently use or are interested in Canon's popular line of EOS photographic products. Canon Live Learning (CLL) will offer high-quality classes and workshops conducted by a number of the industry's leading professional photographers, Canon's Explorers of Light. CLL attendees will learn how to get the most out of their gear while also having the opportunity to try out Canon's latest line of EOS products. "Through the Canon Live Learning program we are hoping to empower and inspire our customers to further enhance their skills and passion for the art of imaging," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. "Canon Live Learning adds value to the experience of owning and using Canon photographic products." CLL will consist of two distinct educational opportunities: EOS Essentials and EOS Extras. EOS Essentials is a two-day weekend program which will start on Saturday with a mini-conference for participants to learn about a variety of topics, followed by optional hands-on workshops. On Sunday, participants will be organized in smaller groups and take part in workshops conducted by a Canon Explorer of Light professional photographer. The EOS Extras program is a series of exciting, two-day hands-on workshops with a Canon Explorer of Light. Participants will go on location in order to learn about photographic techniques and try Canon's latest EOS equipment. Potential participants can go online to learn more about each program and register at this Web page: www.usa.canon.com/canonlivelearning EOS Essentials The Canon Live Learning EOS Essentials program is ideal for photographers who are interested in learning how to get the most out of their EOS and other photography equipment. During the first day of the program, four topics will be covered, at approximately 90 minutes per topic. Canon Explorers of Light, local professional photographers and Canon instructors will present each topic through an inspirational blend of on-screen content and live demonstrations. After each presentation, questions and answers will be encouraged to further discussion and elicit new ideas. Topics in 2009 will include: "Creative Lighting with Speedlites," "HD Video with EOS DSLRs," "Landscape/Nature Photography," and "Maximizing Your EOS." The optional second day of the EOS Essentials program will offer a choice between two different hands-on workshops, each with an attending Explorer of Light photographer and other professional instructors. These workshops will be interactive and limited to 16 participants each. Participants will also be able to try out Canon's latest line of EOS products during these workshops. Workshop topics will vary according to the location, and are posted on the Canon Live Learning Web site. In 2009, the Canon EOS Essentials program will be held in the following cities: Location Dates New York, N.Y. May 30th – May 31st Chicago, Ill. June 13th – June 14th Los Angeles, Calif. June 20th – June 21st San Francisco, Calif. July 18th – July 19th Boston, Mass. TBD Seattle, Wash TBD Atlanta, Ga. TBD Dallas, TX TBD Confirmed Canon Explorers of Light who are scheduled to deliver at least one program are: Vincent Laforet, Bruce Dorn, Bob Davis, George Lepp, Darrell Gulin, Adam Jones and Jennifer Wu. Various local professional photographers, such as Carol Dragon, Richard Koci Hernandez and Paul Kennedy, are also scheduled to participate. Canon U.S.A. instructors will include Brian Matsumoto, Carl Peer and James Rose. All EOS Essentials presentations will be shown using Canon REALiS multimedia projectors for superb image quality, and each location will feature an equipment demonstration area where participants will be able to handle and try a wide range of Canon imaging products, including EOS cameras, EF lenses and Canon imagePROGRAF and PIXMA Pro photo printers. EOS Extras In addition to the EOS Essentials program, Canon Live Learning is offering EOS Extras where participants will have the opportunity to take part in a weekend of instruction on location at an interesting site with a Canon Explorer of Light. In this program, participants will get even more extensive hands-on experience and come away with an increased knowledge and understanding of their Canon EOS equipment. Participants will have the opportunity to use additional EOS equipment as well. The first EOS Extras weekend program is scheduled for June 6th through June 7th in Aspen, Colorado with Explorer of Light Tyler Stableford. Additional destinations will be announced in the coming weeks. Explorers of Light The Explorers of Light concept came out of Canon USA in the mid 1990's as a broad-ranging initiative for photographic education and inspiration. Today, the group is comprised of more than 60 of the most influential photographers in the world, each a master of their own creative specialty. The Explorers share their photographic passions and technical expertise with eager audiences of photo professionals, hobbyists and enthusiasts in a variety of personal appearances, seminars and gallery showings throughout the United States. Examples of the Explorers' work may be found online at the Explorers of Light Gallery as well as numerous museums, galleries and publications. Explorers of Light use Canon EOS photographic equipment. For more information, please visit the Canon Digital Learning Center: www.usa.canon.com/dlc Via Canon press release

Panasonic Announces Pricing for Lumix GH1: MSRP $1499.95, wow

Secaucus, NJ (May 6, 2009) – Panasonic today announced pricing for the highly-anticipated LUMIX DMC-GH1, the new Micro Four Thirds digital camera with Full-High Definition (HD) video recording ability, which will be available in early June for a suggested retail price of $1499.95. The LUMIX DMC-GH1 includes the LUMIX G VARIO 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens as part of the kit. The new lens, designed to support HD movie recording, features a silent motor and continuous auto focusing (AF) capability – a differentiator from traditional DSLRs.

In the U.S., the LUMIX GH1 will be available in black and has advanced photography features, such as the ability to record AVCHD 1080p/24p High Definition video, yet is easy enough for entry-level users to understand and take beautiful photos and videos. With Panasonic’s iA (Intelligent Auto) mode* - a user-friendly setting made popular in the LUMIX line of digital point-and-shoot camera products, both entry-level and more experienced DSLR users can enjoy a complete suite of technologies that allow beautiful photo-taking and engage automatically – no setting adjustments needed.

For those looking for more creative control in their digital camera, the LUMIX GH1 can adjust shutter speed during motion recording, giving the videos a special look, particularly suitable for shooting fast-moving subjects. Also, the LUMIX GH1 allows users to control the aperture, which is convenient when there are several subjects at varying distances. By adjusting the aperture, the user can focus on the foreground and blur the background – or vice versa – even during video recording.

“Since redefining the traditional DSLR category last year with the LUMIX G1 – which eliminated the internal mirror and thus dramatically reduced size of the camera body and lenses – Panasonic has been working to expand its award-winning LUMIX G Micro Four Thirds System line. Panasonic wants to offer increasingly innovative products and features that make photography fun and easy,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The introduction of the LUMIX GH1, allows photographers of all levels to take superior quality photos and shoot HD video with a more compact, easy-to-use camera that provides increased creative capabilities.”

The LUMIX GH1 provides cutting-edge video recording features, including the ability to record high-resolution full HD (1920 x1080) video at 24 fps or smooth HD video (1280 x 720) at 60 fps using an AVCHD format (MPEG-4/H.264), which provides the important benefit of doubling the HD quality recording time compared with Motion JPEG. The LUMIX GH1 features a dedicated video record button on the back of the camera which lets users instantly start recording videos, even while shooting still photos – removing the fear of potentially missing a must-see video moment.

For more information about the Panasonic LUMIX G Micro Four Thirds System, including the award-winning LUMIX G1, and to place a pre-order for the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH1, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

Source: Panasonic Press Release

Canon EOS 5D mkII reviewed

Nicholas Blachford at OSnews.com has a new review of the Canon EOS 5D MkII. See belo

The 5D2 is an awesome camera, the pictures it produces are quite simply superb, the level of detail is really quite incredible. The quality of the video is also superb.

The Camera is a good size and well made, it’s also easy to operate, but read the manual as there things that will catch you out. If you are upgrading from an older DSLR you’ll find a lot of new features and improvements on the old ones. It’ll also be faster, the battery lasts longer and it takes better pictures ...but you might need a new computer! You might also need a new lens, EF-S lenses will not fit the 5D2.

The 5D2 is probably very good for video but this really depends on if you can handle the lack of manual control and put up with the hacks to get around this limitation if you need it. For most people it probably isn’t an issue, for more serious film makers this is a very big deal.

The 5D2 is a very expensive camera but you certainly get what you pay for. I’d recommend it to anyone who is serious about their photography.

Check out OSnews for the full review.

More Pentax K-7 pictures

I just found a set of pictures around the net, here they are for your viewing pleasure. Also some more specs details below the pictures.






Rumored / estimated official announcement: May 21st 2009

Rumored features

Maximum ISO 6400
Lowest ISO 50
5fps burst at 6Megapixel resolution
Viewfinder magnification 100%
Improved body insulation
Mirror lock up
Live View and HD video (FullHD resolution not confirmed)
Microphone input jack
Improved image stabilization system
New 77 point metering
Live view with 77 point AF
Improved 11+9 spot AF
Larger 3 inch 920000 dot LCD
Shutter speed min 1/8000
Flash sync 1/250
LCD screen not swiveling
Body width less than K20D, height and grip larger

Canon instant rebate promotion

Nicole Lee, associate editor for CNET says in her Crave entry yesterday:

Canon has recently launched an instant rebate promotion for a few of its DSLR products. You can save up to $500 on lenses, up to $300 on a new camera, and up to $70 on Speedlites and accessories. Of course, only a select few products qualify for the rebate, and you might be saving only 10 percent off the original price. Still, the lenses eligible for the rebate are very good (for example, the highly praised 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM), and if you've been lamenting the high cost of lenses, now may be the time to jump on these reduced prices. The camera and flashlight selections aren't bad either. Better get going though, because the offer only lasts until July 11, 2009.

Check out the official Canon Promotions page with instant rebate details or read below for full details.

Lenses: Instant Rebate

Save up to $500 on select Canon EF and EF-S lenses when you purchase between May 3, 2009 - July 11, 2009. Download .pdf for complete details.

Rebate Valid Dates: 05-03-2009 -- 07-11-2009

Download Coupon PDF

Qualifying Products:
EF 200mm f/2L IS USM
EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM
EF 50mm f / 1.2L USM
EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM
EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM
EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM
EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM
EF 17-40mm f/4L USM
EF-S 17-85MM f4-5.6 IS USM
EF 70-200mm f/4L USM
EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM
EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM
EF 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6 USM
EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM
EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

EOS Digital SLR Cameras Instant Rebate

Save up to $300 when you purchase a select EOS Digital SLR and lens combination between May 3, 2009 - July 11, 2009. Download .pdf for complete details.

Rebate Valid Dates: 05-03-2009 -- 07-11-2009

Download Coupon PDF

Qualifying Products:
EOS 50D
EOS Rebel XSi EF-S 18-55IS Kit
EOS Rebel XS 18-55IS Kit

Flashes Instant Rebate

Save up to $70 on select Canon Speedlites and accessories when you purchase between May 3, 2009 - July 11, 2009. Download .pdf for complete details.

Rebate Valid Dates:05-03-2009 -- 07-11-2009

Download Coupon PDF

Qualifying Products:
Speedlite 580EX II
Speedlite 430EX II
Speedlite 220EX
Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX
Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX

Pentax K20D Limited Titanium Edition

Oh what a beauty. Check out this piece of art, the Pentax K20D Limited Titanium Edition, of which only 1000 pieces are planned and the price is $1199.
Via photorumors.com

Samyang 8 mm f/3.5 Aspherical IF MC fisheye lens

Samyang 8 mm f/3.5 Aspherical IF MC Fish-eye lens is designed for APS-C image sensor. This model fits Nikon mounts. It creates images with an expanded perpective, including images with a creatively deformed outlook and a sharp pan focus that extends throughout the entire frame. By offering 180 degree angle of view, this fisheye lens ca be used to create amazing image expressions that cannot be seen with the human eye, such as exaggerated perpective and disortion. The minimum shooting distance and large depth of field gives new meaning to close-up shots.

Sprecification:

Brand: Samyang

Model: 8 mm f/3.5 Aspherical IF MC

Lens type: Fish-eye

Focal lenght: 8 mm

Angle of View: 180 degrees

Minimum Focusing Distance: 0,3 m

Number of diaphragm blades: 6

Autofocus: none

Optical Construction: 10 Elements in 7 Groups

Fitler thread: none

Available mounting: Canon, Nikon, KM/Sony, Pentax/Samsung

Dimensions: 75 x 74,8 mm

Extra feature: 1 aspherical lens, build-in lens hood

This lens will be available in May 2009.

Price: EUR 256.22 (around US$ 338)

Via http://photorumors.com/

Pentax K-7 rumored/leaked specs

Photorumors com has a pretty good looking set of specs of the K-7 (yes, it's with the hyphen), the upcoming upper segment DSLR from Pentax.

Camera Name:	Pentax K-7 (It Is “K Hyphen Seven” - *No* “D” Letter and *With* the Hyphen)
Dimensions (by Measurement, Not Factory Specs):	96mm (H) x 130.5mm (W) x D1-D3* *D1 = 67.5mm, from Flange to Grip Rear *D2 = 74.5mm, from Grip Front to Grip Rear *D3 = 76.5mm, from RTF Front to Grip Rear Remark: Neck Strap Buckles, Eyecup, Hotshoe Cap and Rubber Covers are All Ignored Amazingly Truly Compact! Especially for an Upper Grade DSLR Body! (RTF is Far Less Protruding Than Previous Models, Too)
Sensor Format:	APS-C, Aspect Ratio: 3:2
Mount:	Pentax KAF-3 (Crippled K-mount, Support Both Body Driven “Screw-Type” AF and SDM)
Viewfinder Coverage and Magnification:	>95% and/or >0.95X ( by my Best Measurement and Estimation - It could be 100% *and* 1.0X

Check the full Pentax K-7 specs listing at Photo Rumors.

Sigma extends warranty on all non-EX lenses

All Sigma Corporation lenses are covered by a one-year international warranty. This new extended warranty will now cover all non-EX lenses purchased through an authorized US dealer for another two years beyond the one-year international warranty, for a total of three years. Customers purchasing Sigma’s EX lenses through authorized US dealers will continue to receive an extended, three-year warranty.

Via photorumors.com

Panasonic GH1 price revealed

Cnet's Crave senior editor Lori Grunin has a short post about the high price of the new Panasonic GH1, which is available for preorder for $1500 at J&R. Yes, that's 1.5 grand for the Micro Four Thirds camera with a kit lens.

Given that J&R doesn't generally offer the deepest discounts and that the camera isn't really shipping yet so competitive pricing hasn't kicked in, I expect the street price to be closer to $1,299--still pretty pricey, even with the bundled 14-140mm (28-280mm equivalent) lens.

Then again, it's a new technology and probably a new market segment, so who knows what price the market will bear. The question is, would you pay that much, assuming the photo quality and performance can match a similarly priced dSLR?

Via Crave, J&R via photorumors.com

Sony Alpha A330 rumored

Sony UK support site revealed a few details of what seems to be an upcoming model from Sony's Alpha DSLR line.

Protoclub Alpha says on their news page Alpha 330 - future model?

Since two new lenses - presumed to incorporate focus motors because of their design - are also shown on the support website, 50mm f/1.8 and 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6, it can be assumed the camera will be sold with these lenses as no existing models have the codes Y or L when used in kits. There is a possibility that these budget lenses are not SSM, but use a cheaper internal micromotor. It may also be fair to assume to the body could lack mechanical focus drive support.

They also speculate that there may be a few other models coming out this year:

This may mean nothing (just a poorly written site layout) or it may mean the higher end models will be A730 and A930 (since 30 seems to be the increment chosen). It’s worth checking this site, and others, in the coming days as changes like this usually precede launches. Sony traditionally launches cameras either before the summer holiday season for its various worldwide markets, or at the start of the ‘return to work’. Past launches have been early June (with pre-release information in May to dealers and some press under NDA) and September (with the same in late August).

Via Gizmodo, Photoclub Alpha

Nikon D90 reviewed

Katrina Putker at Buy-n-shoot.com wrote a review of the Nikon D90, check it out here.

After close examination of the 12.3-megapixel D90, it is plain to see that Nikon have cleverly created what is essentially a blend of the most well-received and comprehensible technologies, features, and interface design from their large array of consumer and professional DSLRs, to produce an exceptional prosumer model with a ‘world first’ gong to its name.

One of the D90’s most notable selling features, aside from its outstanding image quality, is undoubtedly its world first ability as a DSLR to produce high definition movie files resulting in what Nikon describe as ‘genuinely cinematic’ movie clips.

Three frame sizes are available for recording in D-Movie mode: 1280x720 (16:9) for highest quality widescreen movies suitable for plasma and LCD TV viewing, the default 640x424 (3:2) for standard viewing, and 320x216 (3:2) for reduced movie file size.

Olympus E30 Art Modes and Filters, review

Tan Kit Hoong at The Star Online posted an article, half-review, half-something-else, reviewing the Olympus E30 while focusing mostly on art modes and filters, vignetting, retro stylish shots and more.

Funky ­filters and modes give an interesting twist to the Olympus E-30 DSLR.

THERE was a time when DSLRs were meant for professional and serious amateur use, while compact cameras were meant for parties and casual users.

The main difference was that DSLRs generally were a bit more difficult to use and lacked compact digicam features like Live View and video recording.

These days, of course, the lines are definitely blurring, with DSLRs and compact cameras getting ever closer in terms of features and ­pricing.

Most DSLRs come with Live View (and some with video recording) and prices for entry level models are very close to what you’d pay for a high-end compact digicam.

The Olympus E-30 blurs these lines even further.

Via star-techcentral.com

Panasonic GH1

Akihabara News says that The Panasonic GH1 Kills The DSLR, TV-Industrial Complex.

A major step was just taken that will revolutionize how video is produced and consumed. It’s called the Panasonic GH1.

Though hardly the first digital camera to shoot HD video (notable examples include the Canon 5D Mark II and the Nikon D90) the GH1 manages to provide jaw-droppingly-good HD video (1080p) in a smaller and less-expensive package* than its predecessors and rivals. This means that any idiot with a thousand bucks, a subject, and a PC can become a movie producer.

This is a MASSIVE opportunity for anybody with film-making experience. You have the opportunity to be involved in a revolution. Yes, the democratization of HD video will mean declining prestige, and an increasingly flooded content marketplace. But at the same time, it allows content creators to put more professional-looking creations on the web and garner maximum exposure before the big studios begin to adapt to the new platform.

If there is to be an internet video production star made, he/she will be made king very soon. As I said earlier, this is an amazing time to be alive.