Jan 27 2012

Sigma Corporation of America announces the passing of Michihiro Yamaki

Category: Business & Marketing, Technology Insights, The Industry — djordan @ 11:51 am

Imaging manufacturer’s pioneering CEO, founder led company for more than 50 years

RONKONKOMA, NY, Jan. 27, 2012 – With great sadness, Sigma Corporation of America today announced the passing of Sigma Corporation’s founder and CEO Michihiro Yamaki. He died of liver cancer in Tokyo, Japan, on Jan. 18 at the age of 78

“We are deeply saddened by this loss,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Mr. Yamaki was an industry visionary, and his leadership and enthusiasm has been the driving force behind our company’s innovation for more than 50 years. We’re sending our deepest condolences to the Yamaki family, and our entire Sigma family around the world, during this very difficult time.”

Yamaki founded Sigma Corporation on Sept. 9, 1961 with the development of the first-ever rear attached lens converter. At that time, most photo enthusiasts believed that a lens converter could only be attached to the front of a camera lens and the 27-year-old optical engineer turned conventional optical theory on its head. Sigma Corporation celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011 with Yamaki still at the company’s helm.

Throughout his years in the photo industry, Yamaki has been focused on producing high-quality, high-performance photographic technology at moderate prices. His goal for the company has always been to make outstanding image quality accessible to all photographers. To this end, he grew the family-owned organization into a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of lenses, cameras and flashes. The company is now known as the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 50 current lenses that are compatible with most manufacturers, including Sigma, Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax and Sony.

In 2008, under Yamaki’s direction, Sigma Corporation purchased Foveon, a California-based company that’s renowned for developing the X3 image sensor technology. This patented, three-layer image sensor captures all primary RGB colors at each pixel location arranged in three layers to deliver outstanding, high-resolution, high-definition images with impressive three-dimensional detail and rich gradation. Last year, the company announced the arrival of its SD1, a groundbreaking, 46-megapixel direct image sensor camera, offering more megapixels than any other DSLR currently on the market. Sigma Corporation continued its theme of addressing gaps in the industry and the needs of photographers by kicking off 2012 with the launch of its new, Digital Neo (DN) line of lenses for Micro Four Thirds and E-mount camera systems.

In addition to his inventions and photographic foresight, Yamaki made many other contributions to the industry in his 78 years of life. He served organizations such as: the Japan Photographic Enterprises Association, Japan Machinery Design Center, Japan Optomechatronics Association, Photographic Society of Japan, and Japan Camera Industry Institute. He has also been honored with the “Person of the Year” award from The Photoimaging Manufacturers & Distributors Association (PMDA), the “Hall of Fame” award from the International Photographic Council (IPC), and the Golden Photokina Pin for his longtime contribution to the imaging industry.

About Sigma Corporation

For more than 50 years, Sigma Corporation’s expertise and innovation has driven the company’s core philosophy of “knowledge, plus experience, plus imagination,” with an emphasis on producing high-quality, high-performance photographic technology at moderate prices. This family-owned organization is the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 40 lenses that are compatible with most manufacturers, including Sigma, Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic and Pentax. Sigma Corporation also produces digital SLR cameras and high-definition digital compact cameras. The company is headquartered in Japan, with offices strategically located throughout Europe, Asia and North America. For information, please visit www.sigmaphoto.com.

Tags: ,

Jan 20 2012

Hands-on: A Preview of the Fujifilm X-Pro1 Camera System

Category: Technology Insights, Viewpoint — djordan @ 11:17 am

fujifilm_X-Pro1-SystemBy Bob Rose

While the recent 2012 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas (January 10-13) was the setting for a number of new but somewhat evolutionary camera introductions, Fujifilm decided to take a revolutionary step in their recent evolution by introducing a completely new interchangeable lens camera system.

The Fujifilm X-Pro1 was designed for wedding, portrait, commercial and fine art photographers, and follows closely in the retro styling made famous by the X100 and the X10 cameras—solid and well built.

The X-Pro1 is not a rangefinder but instead a step up for compact interchangeable-lens cameras offering an advanced Hybrid Multi Viewfinder providing your choice of both and Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) and Optical Viewfinder (OVF).

Besides the unusually sturdy construction and extensive use of machined metal parts, the key to its quality is the completely new APS-C 16Mpxl “X-Trans CMOS” sensor.

As the only digital camera manufacturer with true film experience, Fujifilm looked deep into the structure and mechanics of the way digital images are most often created and determined that they could introduce a more “organic” and higher quality look by changing the rules a bit.

Continue reading “Hands-on: A Preview of the Fujifilm X-Pro1 Camera System”

Tags: ,

Jan 19 2012

$400 Adapter Lets Your Sony NEX Gaze Through Canon Lenses

Category: Uncategorized — djordan @ 12:14 pm

The number of lenses available for mirrorless pro compact snappers is dwarfed by those available for Canon SLRs. But there’s no reason to feel inferior now that Conurus’ Canon EF lens adapter for Sony’s NEX cameras is finally available.

As long as you’re not completely reliant on autofocus, which is rendered unusable with this adapter, for just $400 you can use any Canon EOS lens on your Sony NEX-series body.

The adapter—which supports all other functions of the lens and camera including image stabilization, shooting modes, and EXIF data—has only just become available, but has already sold out. So if you were patiently waiting to finally use your Canon glass on your NEX-series shooter, you’ll have to wait just a bit longer while Conurus “…are manufacturing the next batch immediately.” [Conurus via The Verge]

Tags: , , ,

Jan 13 2012

Nikon D4 Hands-On: The Photographer’s Newest Deadly Weapon

Category: Technology Insights — djordan @ 11:48 am

If you’re used to shooting with an everyday DSLR, the Nikon D4 is like holding fully-automatic machine gun for the first time.

Pulling the trigger on the D4 is wonderfully satisfying. When you’re shooting in continuous mode, frames peel off super-fast thanks to Nikon’s new EXPEED 3 processor, which gets you up to 11 fps in RAW. The camera has a big buffer for continuous shooting, but I learned that the new processor is so powerful that it will capture up to 50 RAW frames before even going to buffer. I didn’t push that last claim to its conclusion at the Nikon CES booth, but I held down the shutter release for a while without the camera choking up.

Compared to inexpensive DSLRs the Nikon D4 is big and heavy, but it’s actually much more manageable than other professional cameras. It’s light enough to use with one hand for maybe a minute, but make no mistake: This is a lot of camera. Don’t plan on hanging the D4 from your neck all day. It fills up both of my hands when I hold it on the bottom and from the grip on the right side. To really get the most out of the camera’s programable dials and buttons, you’re going to want to hold it this way anyway.

Other notes: The camera sports an impressive autofocus that adjusted instantaneously on the show floor. I watched some of the HD video shot with the camera blown up to the size of a wall and it is gorgeous. Based on what I could see on the LCD, the camera makes good decisions and takes great photos in automatic and priority exposure modes. On the brightly lit show floor I couldn’t try the low-light performance we’ve heard so much about, but I’m looking forward to seeing it in action when production models are available.

We obviously can’t say anything definitive until a full review, but, it’s pretty plain to see that the D4 is going to be a powerful workhorse of a camera. Unfortunately, if you don’t have $6000 lying around you’re never going to own one. [gizmodo]

Tags: , , ,

Jan 12 2012

Fuji X-Pro1

Category: Technology Insights — djordan @ 12:37 pm

10cb626250c84acd598088601a4c83cf
It’s beautiful, simple to use, and elegant. And the Fuji X-Pro1 is rightly going to end up in a lot of camera bags when it hits the streets.

What impressed us the most was just how easy the this gorgeous mirrorless camera is to use. Aperture is controlled by a ring around the lens. Shutter speed is controlled by a dial on the top of camera. If want the camera to automatically control these features? Just set them to “A.” Simplicity itself.

A hybrid viewfinder lets you toggle back and forth between the viewfinder and the rear display. Perfect for taking overhead shots. All the camera’s display options are visible in both the back display and in the viewfinder, so you don’t have to pull the camera away from your eye while adjusting settings. Our only beef with the X-Pro1 might be that the autofocus won’t be as snappy as we’d like. If you’re used to a nice point-and-shoot or DSLR’s speedy autofocus, this could be frustrating. But hey, beauty always comes at a price.

Oh, speaking of which: X-Pro1 should be ready at the end of February for around (*gulp!*) $2400. [Fuji]

Tags: ,

Jan 10 2012

Samsung’s Zoomy Wi-Fi Camera

Category: Technology Insights — djordan @ 2:21 pm

It’s not news that smartphone cameras have gotten so good that even tiny, excellent point-and-shoot cameras for all their benefits can seem, well, a little unnecessary. Samsung’s WB850F hopes to change your mind with an incredibly zoomy lens and improved Wi-Fi integration.

Your smartphone doesn’t and probably won’t ever have optical zoom, and if that’s something you’re looking for, the WB850F gives you a 21x optical zoom. That’s way more zoom zoom than its competitors.

The other key selling point on the Samsung WB850F is Samsung’s sweet Wi-Fi features. Wi-Fi isn’t new to Samsung cameras, but it’s worth noting how well the SH100 played with your other toys. Samsung’s Remote Viewfinder application, for example, allows you to use your Galaxy S or Galaxy Tab as a remote control the SH100 camera. Similarly the built-in Wi-Fi makes it easy to share your photos and videos on Facebook, Picasa, and YouTube directly from the camera.

Will Samsung's Zoomy, Wi-Fi Cameras Beat Out Your Smartphone For Your Love?Samsung’s new “SMART Wi-Fi” technology builds on what the SH100 offered adding auto back-up and making it easier to ge your photos wherever and whenever you want them. Once you’ve synced your PC with your camera one time, your photos will automatically back-up every time your camera and your computer are connected to the same network. You can also set your photos to upload to Samsung’s AllShare Play cloud locker service or Microsoft SkyDrive. Another cool incoming feature is Samsung Mobile Link, which makes it easy to port your photos over to your Samsung phone, tablet, or internet connected TV.

As for the key image quality and performance specs the WB850F has a 16.2 Megapixels CMOS—most likely a 1/2.33″ sensor—1080/30p or 60i video, and a 3.0 VGA AMOLED display. The specs are nothing to go bananas over, but hey, it’s a lot better than what’s on your phone, and as for the lens, there’s really no competition. There will also be two lower-end models with the same connectivity features. The WB150F has a 14.2 megapixel sensor and 18x optical zoom. The ST200F has a 14.2 megapixel sensor and 10x optical zoom. Both shoot 720/30p video. [Samsung]

Tags: , ,

Jan 09 2012

The New Canon ELPH

Category: Technology Insights — djordan @ 12:21 pm


The new Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS will carry Canon’s fast new processor. If you want a new point-and-shoot, now might be the time to upgrade.

The ELPH 520 HS has a 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, and a 12x optical zoom lens packed into a skinny package. Those specs aren’t anything mind-blowing for a $300 point-and-shoot camera, though. What’s really exciting about this camera is that it’s powered by Canon’s new Digic 5 processor, which improves the camera’s low-light performance and auto-white balance—all in addition to making the camera a generally faster, more responsive package. A scaled back Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS Digital Camera features 5X optical zoom, and 16-megapixel sensor. Both cameras shoot 1080p video.

Both units feature new additions to Canon’s Smart AUTO, which detects 58 different types of scenes. The tech has a new parent-friendly face ID feature, which prioritizes between different people in the scene based on whether they are babies, children, or adults. When the feature is on, the camera will adjust to focus on and properly expose the youngest person in the scene.

The 500 HS will be available in March for $300, the 110 HS will be available in February for $250. [Canon]

Tags: , ,

Jan 08 2012

Nikon’s $6000 D4 DSLR with an ISO Range from 100 to 204,800

Category: Uncategorized — djordan @ 8:24 am

Nikon’s $6000 D4 might just be the new most deadly lightstalker around with a new 16.2-megapixel full-format CMOS sensor that has (relatively) gigantic 7.3-micron pixels (bigger than Canon’s new 1 DX). And it shoots at up to ISO 204,800. Did I mention it’s better than the D3s in almost every way?

With an expanded ISO range from 100 to 204,800 , it’s a stop beyond the D3s on both ends. More importantly, it takes the range where you can expect a clean shot up to around 12,800, roughly twice as excellent as the D3s.

It’s got a 91k pixel 3D color matrix meter and 51-point AF tracking system (which has 15 cross-type center points, and fun tricks like tracking up to 16 human faces simultaneously). AF also retains its orientation when you change from landscape to portrait, so your focus won’t shoot off to the corner. Autofocus in general also gets a bump, down to -2EV, a full stop slower than the D3S. It shoots fairly fast, despite not having a dual image processor like Canon’s 1DX—10fps even in RAW (though if you lock AF and AE, you can nudge it to 11fps).

But maybe the most important upgrade of all, at least for some where Nikon is concerned, is the D4’s video powers. So yes, it shoots in 1080p at 30 or 24fps (or 720p at 60fps) . But it now uses B-Frame data compression, so you can record h.264 clips for up to 20 minutes continuously. You also have full manual control over exposure while shooting (like previous Nikon DSLRs, you can use AF while shooting, too). And, what might be killer for some people: totally uncompressed HD output through the camera’s HDMI port, along with remote shutter operation for video recording and power aperture, for totally silent adjustment while shooting. Oh and for some extra reach, you can switch from full-frame to Nikon’s DX format (a 1.5x crop factor) or to a 2.7x crop at the standard 1920×1080 resolution, giving you essentially free telephoto zoom powers while keeping your video in full HD. Nikon’s promising “less instances of rolling shutter distortion” to boot.

Speaking of light, it’s lighter. Or at least it feels that way. It’s the first thing we noticed when we picked it up. And it didn’t come at the expense of build quality, since the D4 has the same magnesium alloy chassis build, just trimmed down in areas where it could afford to go on a diet.

It’s got a new 3.2-inch 921k dot LCD (up from 3 inches on the 3S) and an Ethernet port for better connectivity, though we’re not sure if it’s quite as capable as the 1DX’s Ethernet hole.

Ergonomics and usability have improved some, too. There are now two AF buttons for when you’re shooting in portrait, and all buttons are backlit, for better usability in the dark. The D4 has two memory card slots, which are optimized for standard cards as well as the new CompactFlash XQD memory cards, making it the first pro camera to adopt the new format.

It’s good to see Nikon taking aim at videographers who have felt a little out in the cold in refreshes past.

[Nikon]

Tags: , ,

Jan 07 2012

Fuji’s Next Beautiful Mirrorless Camera Leaks

Category: Technology Insights — djordan @ 10:23 am

Mirrorless compact cameras are the hottest shooters bouncing around right now, and Fujifilm’s next star just leaked: the X-Pro1 sports a gorgeous vintage look, 16-megapixel APS-CMOS guts, along with a slew of heavy duty metal lenses to swap out.

The leak came from Wells Fargo, of all places, and details some very attractive kit:

The highlight of the offerings is the Fujifilm X-Pro1, which is a highly featured compact system camera. Fuji-filim said it will build on the success of the X100 model, by adding a camera that features a custom-developed 16-megapixel APS-CMOS sensor incorporating a new filter array and the company’s proprietary EXR processor technology.

The camera also includes a second-generation hybrid view-finder and takes three prime interchangeable Fuji-non lenses, all with fast apertures.

The lenses include: the 18mm (27mm equivalent) f/2.0, 35mm (53mm equivalent) f/1.4 and 60mm (90mm equivalent) f/2.4.

No concrete word on pricing or availability yet—a $1,600 price tag is rumored—but we have a feeling this pretty little thing will be in our hands at CES next week (along with the rest of the gear Fuji just dumped), so keep your photog mouth shut before you drool. [Wells Fargo via Verge]

Tags: ,

Jan 06 2012

Can the Nikon D4 Soon Become the Latest and Greatest DSLR?

Category: Photographers, Technology Insights — djordan @ 8:22 am


Not much info to go off of here, but the French publication Responses Photo published some shots of what might be the Nikon D4. If this is in fact accurate, Nikon’s new flagship DSLR could be right around the corner.

Technically, it doesn’t exist, but has been recently rumored for a release. As far as specs go, the article merely says that it has an a 16 megapixel FX sensor, 51 point autofocus, 1080p video recording, an ISO range of 100-12,800, weighs 1.34 kilograms and will sell for 5800 Euros. Not sure about you, but I’m definitely excited to see what Nikon has up their sleeve. [Nikon Rumors]

Tags: , ,

Next Page »