Tag Archives: digital

On May 10, 2012 Leica introduced 5 new products: The M Monochrom, X2, APO-Summicron-M 50mm/f2 ASPH lens, S-Adapter H, and the V-LUX 40. Scroll down for detailed information regarding each of these products, including pricing and availability.

Leica M Monochrom Black and White Digital Rangefinder

With the M Monochrom, Leica introduces the worlds first full-frame black and white digital camera. Featuring a black and white sensor, the camera produces images in a sharpness and brilliance never before attained and barely distinguishable from other M cameras with the model name discretely engraved on the hot shoe.

Key Features of the Leica M Monochrom:

• Newly developed monochrome CCD sensor with a native resolution of 18 million pixels
• 100% sharper imaging thanks to direct processing of raw data with no interpolation
• Extremely low, fine-grain image noise up to ISO 10,000
• Raw data histogram and parameter clipping warning
• Various tones programmable
• Top cover and bottom plate in black chrome finish
• New leatherette body covering
• All-cowhide carrying strap
• Nik Silver Efex Pro 2 software supplied in addition to Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
• Exclusive access to the Leica Monochrom Print Service in cooperation with Whitewall
• Original fiber barite print of a Magnum photo from the Leica M Monochrom campaign by J.A. Sobol supplied

Newly developed monochrome CCD sensor with a native resolution of 18 Million Pixel.
With its full, native resolution of 18 megapixels, the Leica M Monochrom delivers 100 % sharper images than with color sensors. The fact that its sensor does not "see" color means real brightness values are available for each individual pixel. That is to say, the sensor of the M Monochrom produces a "genuine" black-and-white image directly. In combination with the brilliant imaging performance of Leica lenses and the perfect matching of the sensor to the M system, this creates pictures of outstanding sharpness and natural brilliance, with no need to sharpen the image in post-processing. The result is incomparable picture quality, such as would normally only be expected of a medium-format camera. The impressively low noise level of the monochrome CCD sensor delivers an extremely fine-grained image, which is not perceived as disturbing even at the highest ISO settings.

The Leica M Monochrom will retail for $7950, and Leica estimates it will be available August 2012.

Leica X2 Compact Digital Camera

The Leica X2 is Leica's latest development of the popular, high-end compact X system and features the latest sensor technology in combination with a fast 35mm Leica Elmarit lens.

Key Features of the Leica X2:

• Newly developed APS-C CMOS Sensor with an effective resolution of 16.1 MP
• Leica Elmarit 1;2.8/24 mm ASPH (35 mm equivalent: 35 mm)
• Simple operation and manual adjustment possibilities
• High quality materials
• Connection for high resolution electronic viewfinder for new photographic perspectives
• Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, the comprehensive solution for modern digital photography
• Made in Germany

New developed APS-C CMOS Sensor with an effective Resolution of 16.1 Mega-Pixel
The CMOS image sensor of the Leica X2 in APS-C format is unusually large for such a compact camera. The result: extremely low image noise, high dynamic range, and accurate color differentiation. The combination of an exceedingly large sensor and high-performance lens sets new standards in image quality in the compact camera category. And this is where the Leica X2 shows its true greatness.

Classic Focal Length: Leica Elmarit 1:2.8/24 mm ASPH (35mm equivalent)
Countless iconic images in the history or photography were shot with a focal length of 35 mm – the classic lens for photojournalism. The Leica Elmarit 24 mm/f2.8 ASPH lens is equivalent to this famous focal length in 35 mm film format, with its superb optical performance opens up a broad vista of potential uses.

Precise Auto Focus
The Leica X2’S fast, new autofocus feature enables extremely precise and virtually silent focusing. Perfect for situations where spontaneous reactions are essential to capture the right moment. It adapts flexibly to the situation in hand, for example, with a choice AF focusing segments or face recognition. This allows the photographer to concentrate exclusively on their subject.

Key Differences between the Leica X2 and Leica X1

• Newly developed sensor which provides high image quality especially at low light and optimized auto focus speed.
• Connection for high resolution electronic viewfinder.
• New touch and feel of the operating elements, new leather trim and surfaces.
• New pop-up flash with latch trip.
• Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, latest version.

The Leica X2 will retail for $1995 and will be available in both black and silver, and Leica estimates it will be available at the end of May 2012.

The Leica X2 electronic viewfinder will retail for $529.

Leica APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH Lens

With the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH lens, Leica engineers have pushed the boundaries of what is technically feasible to set a new benchmark in imaging. The Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH was designed like all Leica lenses with the aim of maximizing both contrast and detail even at full aperture. That aim is met in an incomparable manner. The latest milestone in the history of the M-system delivers previously unattained performance levels in terms of all technical parameters. The MTF curves, which describe the sharpness of the image, remain all the way to the edges, even with the aperture open, over 50% contrast. This level of performance has never been achieved previously and demonstrates the exceptional quality of the lens. This allows extremely sharp imaging in all scenarios, with optimal definition right into the corners, even for close-ups.

This lens has an apochromatic correction feature which is a highly complex and sophisticated method of color error correction. It minimizes color fringing at sharp edges, so ensuring that all details are naturally depicted. This is achieved, among other means, by skilfully integrating glasses with anomalous partial dispersion into the lens design. All these qualities allow photographers to get the best possible image quality, especially for large prints.

The Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH particularly in combination with high-resolution cameras such as the new Leica M Monochrom will offer photographers the opportunity to produce fine-art photography of a quality never before attained.

Key Features of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH Lens:

• High speed standard lens delivering outstanding imaging performance
• Supremely soft rendering of blurred image areas (Bokeh)
• Integrated lens hood, extendable by rotating
• Product package includes milled brass lens front cap
• Exclusive presentation packaging box

The Leica APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH lens will retail for $7195, and Leica estimates it will be available August 2012.

Leica S-Adapter H

The Leica S-Adapter H allows Leica S2 customers to use Hasselblad H-System lenses with the S2 or S2-P. This adapter allows the following functions:

• Autofocus and manual focusing with focus indication
• Automatic diaphragm
• Central shutter upto 1/750s

The Leica S-Adapter H will allow Hasselblad lenses to have an extended scope of application with the S-camera due to the integrated focal plane shutter of the camera body. This will allow the photographer to shoot with the Hasselblad lenses, as well as, with central shutter or without central shutter by using upto 1/4000s with the focal plane shutter of the camera.

The Leica S-Adapter H supports the following H-system lenses:

• HCD 4 / 28 mm
• HC 3.5 / 35 mm
• HC 3.5 / 50 mm II
• HC 2.8 / 80 mm
• HC 2.2 / 100 mm
• HC macro 4 / 120 mm II
• HC 3.2 / 150 mm
• HC 4 / 210 mm
• HC 4.5 / 300 mm
• HCD 4-5.6 / 35 – 90 mm
• HC 3.5-4.5 / 50 – 110 mm

The Leica S-Adapter H does not support the following components: HTS 1.5 Tilt/Shiftconverter, Converter H 1.7x, Extension tubes H13, H26 and H52 and H-System CF-Adapter.

The Leica S-Adapter H will retail for $1950, and Leica estimates it will be available at the end of May 2012.

Leica V-LUX 40 Compact Digital Camera

Leica is pleased to introduce the 14.1 MP Leica V-LUX 40 to their fine range of compact digital cameras. Boasting a high-performance 20X super-zoom lens with focal
length range of 24 to 480 mm, the Leica V-LUX 40 is ideal for almost any photographic situation.

Key Features of the Leica V-LUX 40:

• Leica DC-Vario-Elmar 4.3 – 86 mm / f 3.3 – 6.4 ASPH ( 24 – 480 mm equivalent) zoom lens
• Newly developed 14.1 MP 1 / 2.23“ CMOS sensor
• Simple and intuitive handling, plus manual setting options for more ambitious users
• Fast burst shooting and 3-D photo feature
• 3“ touch screen display with a resolution of 460, 000 pixels
• 1080 p-AVCHD full HD video and internet friendly MP4 storage format
• GPS module for the registration of geographical data for the location of every shot including detailed maps on separate DVD
• Adobe Photoshop Elements 10 and Premiere Elements 10 – the software package for image and video processing, archiving and display.

Leica DC-Vario Elmar 4.3 – 86 mm / 3.3 – 6.4 ASPH (24 – 480 mm equivalent) Lens
The new Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens with an enormous focal length of 24 mm super wide angle to 480 mm super tele zoom for photo and video, the V-LUX 40 is prepared for nearly all photographic situations. High precision aspherical elements and an optical image stablizer are incorporated to guarantee outstanding imaging performance.

Newly developed CMOS Image Sensor with an effective resolution of 14.1 MP
The new 1 / 2.33“ CMOS image sensor in the Leica V-LUX 40 captures 15.3 megapixels (14.1 MP effective) to ensure excellent picture quality. It enables a higher dynamic range as well as particularly noise-free images at sensitivities up to ISO 3200. In comparison with its predecessor, the Leica V-LUX 40 now offers significantly improved image quality, even in low light conditions. In addition to this, its autofocus speed of 0.1 seconds allows even faster focusing on moving subjects.

Videos in full HD-quality
Full-HD videos capturedby the V-LUX 40 impress with their perfect rendition of the finest details, even with fast-moving subjects. This is made possible by recording in AVCHD format at 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution and 50 full frames per second. Another new feature is that videos can now be saved in Internet-friendly MP4 format and be uploaded directly to social media or mobile devices, for example, without any need for conversion. Outstanding audio quality is ensured by an integrated stereo microphone with a built-in wind-noise filter.

Key differences between the V-LUX 40 and the V-LUX 30

• Newly developed lens – wider zoom range from 24 mm – 480 mm (20x)
• Newly developed CMOS sensor – Better picture quality even in low light condition
• Increased AF speed with 0.1 seconds
• Videos in 1080P (progressive) format for improved video quality and internet friendly MP4 storage format
• GPS including separate DVD with detailed maps
• Adobe Photoshop Elements 10 and Premiere Elements 10

The Leica V-LUX 40 will retail for $699, and Leica estimates it will be available May 2012.

Ever wonder how to get the most from your HD video enabled digital SLR camera?

The Nikon School is hosting a full-spectrum 2-day HD DSLR Multimedia Workshop in downtown Boston. Attendees will be provided with loaner cameras, gear, and Apple laptops for editing. The workshop is May 5th and 6th, and will include classroom instruction, real-world shooting, and basic editing. You'll also learn tips for capturing audio. The workshop is limited to 20 students and costs $599. You can register at nikonschool.com/teach.

Did you catch this one? The announcement of the Digital Bolex D16 went under our radar. I think we've been so busy listing old Bolex cameras on our used camera site that we completely missed the release of this new digital Bolex. If you haven't seen it already, here's the press release:

SXSW Film Festival and Technology Trade Show, Austin, March 11, 2012
Bolex International has leveled the digital cinema playing field with the announcement of the Bolex D16, the first digital camera from the 200 year-old Swiss company whose 16mm and 8mm cameras dominated the international consumer marketplace from the 40’s to the 70’s.

The D16 is an interchangeable-lens digital cinema camera that features a Kodak CCD sensor and produces images with a frame size equivalent to Super 16mm. The D16 remarkably captures the look and feel of film at a price that finally makes digital cinema available to filmmakers on any budget. The D16 shoots RAW image sequences at true 2K (2048x1152), without the rolling shutter or line scan effects found with CMOS sensors. The camera’s large pixel size contributes to better light reception without any need to artificially boost the signal.

Adaptability and Compatibility
The D16 comes standard with a C-mount Lens mount, but lens mounts in PL, B4, and EF will also be available and are easily interchanged. The camera has two flash mounts so a monitor and a microphone can be mounted at the same time, an adjustable 2.4” angle display with focus assist, and, in Bolex fashion, a stylish pistol grip that allows for exceptionally steady hand-held shots.

Under The Hood
Like the classic Bolex cameras, the D16 has a carbonized steel frame that gives it a rigid body and unmatched durability. To Bolex, affordable means “high quality” and “digital film” means shooting frames per second. The D16 will offer Adobe’s Cinema DNG format along with other image sequence file types, to ensure the highest quality footage without the pitfalls of video compression. With an internal buss of over 200 Mbps and a 256Gig internal buffer drive, this camera churns through RAW footage like butter. Dual CF card slots make sure that data storage is relatively cheap and readily available. Power is supplied by internal battery, but with a built-in 4-pin XLR port, the D16 can also be powered by a traditional battery belt for long shoot days.

Shoot to Thrill
With a sleek body design, functional pistol grip, and Bolex’s iconic crank, the D16 is fun to use and has character to spare. The crank can be programed to adjust just about anything in the menu, from volume to focus to fps. This feature and the start/stop trigger on the pistol grip makes for a shooting experience that’s unique to the Bolex brand.

Pricing and More Information
The estimated retail price for the D16 and its accessories is $3299.
To learn more about the Bolex D16, visit: www digitalbolex com

We have recently seen an increase in camera malfunctions as a result of outdated firmware and the use of newer memory cards. The most common one as of late has been with Nikon's digital SLRs and Coolpix point & shoot cameras, and their compatibility with the newer Sandisk SDHC memory cards. This affects the Coolpix P500, Coolpix L120 and the D5100 DSLR. We have also seen incompatibilities with larger capacity CF (compactflash) memory cards and the Canon EOS 5D (not Mark II). The good news is there is a fix that is simple and free: just update the camera's firmware!

Here is a list of recent firmware updates for this issue:

Nikon Coolpix P500 - Firmware Update to 1.1

Nikon Coolpix L120 - Firmware Update to 1.1

Nikon D5100 DSLR - Firmware Update to 1.01

Canon EOS 5D - Firmware Update to 1.1.1

While it is important to to keep up to date with the latest firmware, there are many cases where the updates are minor and unnoticeable. For full details on all firmware updates you should visit the manufacturers website. Detailed installation instructions are available for any firmware update. Please make sure to follow instructions exactly, and do not begin a firmware update unless you are using a fully charged battery. Visit the following links to see if you are up to date!

Canon Support 

Nikon Support

Sony Support

Canon announced today a brand new addition to its lineage of flagship professional digital SLR camera bodies, the Canon EOS-1D X (click to purchase from our website). The camera body will retail for $6,800, and it is currently poised for release in March of 2012.

According to the specifications and features listed on this camera, the engineers at Canon have apparently been working overtime. From what we can tell Canon has kept its ears open to the people using their products--photographers--and have been listening. The EOS-1D X seems to be packed with a lot of what photographers want, and leaves out much of what they don't. We are pretty excited about this new camera, and it already feels like it will be a long winter waiting to get our hands on one.

Scroll down for more images and information provided by Canon about this new camera.

Back which shows the new, larger 3.2" high resolution LCD

Top

Side showcasing accessory ports

18.1 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
The EOS-1D X features a newly developed Canon full-frame 18.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor that's designed from the ground up to create high resolution, perfectly detailed images with unprecedented speed and clarity. A full 24 x 36mm, the sensor captures 5184 x 3456 large individual 6.95 µm pixels and has a much-improved S/N ratio resulting in better images from the start. A new photodiode structure with an increased photoelectric conversion rate increases the sensor's sensitivity by approximately 2 stops over previous models, meaning higher ISOs with the lowest noise of any EOS digital camera. And a 2-line 16-channel simultaneous signal readout means speeds of up to 12 fps (RAW + JPEG) and even 14 fps (Super High Speed Mode) are possible!

14-bit A/D conversion, wide range ISO setting 100-51200 (L: 50, H1: 102400, H2: 204800)
The EOS-1D X not only offers 14-bit signal processing for excellent image gradation, it delivers higher standard and expanded ISOs, and a score of new options to enhance shooting in varied and fast-changing lighting situations. With a standard range of ISO 100-51200, the EOS-1D X represents a 2-stop increase in sensitivity over previous cameras. Thanks to the improved signal-to-noise ratio of the new sensor and powerful noise reduction, the EOS-1D X can shoot at expanded sensitivities down to ISO 50 (L) and up to 102400 (H1), and even 204800 (H2)! Beyond the obvious advantages of its wide ISO range, the EOS-1D X has automatic ISO settings, found on the dedicated ISO menu. Minimum and maximum ISO settings can be specified, as can a user-defined range, plus full auto and manual.

Dual DIGIC 5+ Image Processors for enhanced noise reduction and blazing processing speed
For a whole new level of performance, the EOS-1D X uses Dual DIGIC 5+ Image Processors that include four 4-channel A/D converter front-end processing circuits and deliver speeds of up to 12 fps (RAW + JPEG) and 14 fps (JPEG). Compared with the predecessor, Canon's DIGIC 4 Image Processor, the Dual DIGIC 5+ Image Processor offers approximately 17x faster processing speed, and feature new algorithms that promote greater noise reduction at higher ISOs. In addition to conventional image processing functions the Dual DIGIC 5+ Image Processors offer real-time compensation for Chromatic Aberration in both still and motion images. With the power of these two processors, speed improvements are noticeable from the instant the camera is turned on and the stunning results speak for themselves.

All new 61-Point High Density Reticular AF
The newly designed 61-Point High Density Reticular AF features an Offset Array Sensor (with staggering AF point arrangement) to deliver greater accuracy, no matter the situation. It offers multi-zone wide-area AF for better tracking, has 5 central dual cross-type points (f/2.8 diagonal), 21 central cross-type points (f/5.6 horizontal & vertical) and 20 outer cross-type points (f/4.0 horizontal), and is sensitive in extremely low-light situations (EV-2 for a central point with a f/2.8 lens).

The EOS-1D X has a dedicated AF menu tab, so AF can be controlled without having to go through custom function menus. It also has 6 AF point selection methods (Spot, Single Point, Single + Adjacent 4 Points, Single + Adjacent 8 Points, Zone Selection, and Automatic AF Point Selection), plus a dedicated AF configuration tool for control of AI Servo AF III tracking parameters (tracking sensitivity, acceleration/deceleration tracking, and AF point auto switching).

The EOS-1D X uses the 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor to aid the AF system in Automatic Point Selection. This dramatically increases the tracking performance for subjects that were previously unpredictable to follow, such as fast-moving or flying subjects. EOS iTR (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition) AF recognizes the subject based on face and color detection from the AE system, and tracks it using AF points. The EOS iSA (Intelligent Subject Analysis) System incorporates color recognition and Face Detection for proper exposure. Specific parameters can be adjusted and refined and saved in the AF menu for later use.

EOS iSA (Intelligent Subject Analysis System) Powered by Canon DIGIC 4 Image Processor
The EOS-1D X features a brand new 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor with a dedicated DIGIC 4 Image Processor that delivers substantial improvements in evaluative ambient and flash metering. The sensor has 252 distinct zones for general metering, with 35 zones used for low-light metering. The meter's DIGIC 4 Image Processor uses EOS iSA (Intelligent Subject Analysis System) that incorporates face and color recognition data for more stable performance under rapidly changing lighting situations. The E-TTL Flash metering gains the same improvements. These improvements ensure accurate automatic exposure in a greatly increased group of shooting situations, offering a level of performance that will impress even the seasoned pro.

EOS HD Video Recording
Addressing the requests of the pros, the EOS-1D X captures HD video with an unprecedented level of sophistication for a digital SLR. It offers both All-I and IPB compression, supports H.264/MPEG-4 AVC High Profile, and automatically splits files greater than 4GB (FAT specifications) for extended recording up to 29:59 minutes without interruption. It offers the option of timecoding only during recording (Rec Run) or at all times (Free Run) - useful for multi-camera shoots. The EOS-1D X offers easy operation with the new Live View shooting/Movie shooting button. Menu options can still be set even when the Live View image is displayed. A dedicated menu tab for video capture allows functions to be changed quickly on the fly. Improved sound recording adjustment capabilities offer 64-step volume control; and a sound recording level meter that is accessible through the Quick Control screen during video shooting. With the Silent Control function, adjustments can be made quietly with a touch pad located on the inner portion of the Quick Control Dial. The built-in wind filter helps suppress unwanted wind noise that can distort or muffle sound. The CMOS sensor's new drive system significantly increases image processor performance, reducing color artifacts and moiré.

High-Speed Continuous Shooting
The EOS-1D X combines fast 16-channel data readout from its 18.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and the supercharged processing capabilities of its Dual DIGIC 5+ Image Processors with a speedier shutter and mirror system to raise the performance bar for all digital cameras, capturing full-frame images and recording them fast to UDMA cards stored in the cameras Dual Card Slots. Ideal for fixed focus situations, the EOS-1D X's can shoot up to 12 fps (RAW + JPEG). In Super High Speed Mode, high-speed shooting up to 14 fps (JPEG) is possible.

Thanks to a more resilient design, shutter lag with the EOS-1D X is reduced to 55ms (down even further to 36ms via custom function). A redesigned mirror system, featuring a Quad Active Mirror Stopper, uses more effective material to absorb impact when moving up and down not only aids in speedy shot-to-shot times, but the reduced mirror vibration provides more stable shots at all times.

Magnesium alloy body with shutter durability and dust- and weather-resistance
For professionals who demand nothing less than the best, the EOS-1D X is designed to perform superbly, even in the most treacherous environments, every time. The body is constructed of rigid, high-strength magnesium alloy for rugged performance and features a new grip design for easier finger placement and reduced hand fatigue. Its newly redesigned shutter has lightweight and carbon-fiber blades, and is rated to maintain up to 14 fps performance without compromise, for up to 400,000 cycles. The EOS-1D X and accessories like the new Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E6A and GPS Receiver GP-E1 have extensive gasketing for improved dust and water resistance, even at their connection points.

Ultrasonic Wave Motion Cleaning (UWMC)
The EOS-1D X's integrated cleaning dust removal cleaning uses a carrier wave type self-cleaning sensor unit. While previous dust removal systems removed dust adhered to the surface of the infrared absorbing/ultraviolet-blocking glass in a frontward direction by vibrating the glass with ultrasound, the new system effectively rolls rather than shakes the dust particles off, removing an even greater amount of dust, especially smaller particles. As with previous cameras, the IR/UV absorbing glass in front of the EOS-1D X's sensor is treated with an anti-dust fluorine coating making it easier to remove damp or sticky dust particles. As part of Canon's Integrated Cleaning System dust missed by the camera can be identified and removed using the Dust Delete Data feature of Canon's Digital Professional Pro software, bundled with every EOS digital SLR.

Intelligent Viewfinder with Superimposed LCD
The EOS-1D X's Intelligent Viewfinder offers a sharp, bright approximately 100% field of view with an approximate magnification of .76x, a viewing angle of 35° and a 20mm eye-point. With a new construction featuring aspherical lens elements, the viewfinder displays less distortions and color aberrations than previous models. It uses a transparent LCD to superimpose a customizable combination of focus points and gridlines directly over the image. The AF status indicator can even be directed to display within or outside of the viewfinders image area. With the intelligent viewfinder, unlike with other cameras, the photographer has the choice of seeing shooting information or looking only at the scene in front of the camera. The ability to effectively erase all shooting data and turn it back on with the touch of a button gives the photographer the opportunity to concentrate simply on looking and composing the photograph without distraction, a great advantage in numerous shooting situations.

3.2" TFT LCD Monitor
The EOS-1D X's 3.2" TFT LCD monitor has 1,040,000 dots, anti-reflective construction and features Canon's Clear View II technology for bright, sharp display in any number of shooting situations. It's ideal for reviewing settings and images, as well as for shooting in Live View mode. In Live View, grid lines can be displayed in 9 sections, 24 sections, or 9 sections with diagonals, as can the dual-axis electronic level, which helps ensure accurate level by displaying both roll and pitch in 1-degree increments. For image review, the EOS-1D X has a new, dedicated Magnify/Reduce button. While pressing the button, zooming in or out (up to 10x) is achieved simply by turning the Main Dial. Images can be protected or erased quickly, individually or in batches, and slideshows can be created with some or all images and can be sequenced by date, folders, movies, stills or rating. A feature guide can be accessed for the selected menu, providing detailed reference information whenever needed.

Improved handling with addition of new customizable controls
Reconceived based on the experience and feedback of professional users, the EOS-1D X's new ergonomic design is more comfortable and intuitive than ever. With a refined and intelligent layout of all control buttons and dials, shooting settings can be made with just the right hand, and quick image check and image processing operations with just the left. New, assignable and tactile function buttons located on the front of the camera enable fast access to features the photographer uses frequently. The vertical grip has been redesigned for comfort and familiarity, and combined with a vertical position Multi-Controller, Mfn2 and Depth-of-Field preview buttons provides every option found with horizontal for uninterrupted, intuitive shooting no matter the camera's orientation.

During shooting, the EOS-1D X's dedicated Quick Control button enables speedy changes of nearly every shooting parameter with the touch of a button. During playback, pressing the Quick Control button enables the photographer to protect images, rotate, rate, resize, view highlight alert, AF point and much more. Plus, with the EOS-1D X's new Multi Function Lock, the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial and Multi-Controller can all be locked, individually or together.

The EOS-1D X's Graphic User Interface shows improvements as well. The menu structure has been redesigned so that frequently used functions previously buried in the menu hierarchy are brought to the front. Operations previously assigned to buttons, controls, menus and custom functions have been consolidated for quick access in the menu, ensuring the photographer can concentrate on composing and shooting images.

Includes dedicated leather case made of high quality calf leather

We are pleased to announce Leica's latest limited edition camera. Throughout its history Leica has periodically released a limited number of special edition cameras. Today Leica has announced the D-LUX 5 Titanium (click to purchase from our website), which features a titanium anodized finishing aluminum body. It also includes as part of the limited edition release a matching, dedicated leather case made of high quality calf leather. This limited edition camera and dedicated case will be available for $1195 at the end of October. Scroll down to view more images of the D-LUX 5 Titanium limited edition digital camera.

As noted in our previous post comparing the features of the Sony A77 and Sony A65, we have received a lot of interest in the new Sony cameras and lenses that were recently announced: Sony A77, A65, NEX-5N, NEX-7, SAL1650, SEL24F18Z, SEL50F18, and the SEL55210. A lot of the interest has been a curiosity in when these new products will be made available. We were able to get a release schedule from Sony, and we are providing this information here. Each item links to our website where you will be able to purchase the items when we receive them in stock. If you would like to pre-order an item to be one of the first to receive the product, please contact us at sales@gmcamera.com, or (802) 244-0883. All pre-orders are first come, first serve. We currently have all of these products on order with Sony, and will therefore be part of the first shipments as the products are released.

Release Schedule for Sony A77, A65, NEX-5N, NEX-7, and New Lenses

We recently reported on Sony's introduction of the Alpha SLT-A65 and Alpha SLT-A77. That post has received a lot of interest and we have already started to receive a lot of questions. A question that we are hearing again and again is "What are the main differences between the A65 and the A77?"  We decided there has been enough interest and enough people asking this question that we should just post the main differences here.

One big factor that differentiates the two cameras is the pre-packaged kit lens. The A65 is available as body only or with the Sony 18-55mm lens as a kit. The A77 is also offered as body only, but is also offered with the new 16-50mm f/2.8 lens as a kit. That difference alone may be appealing for some customers to decide one way or the other, and there is a big difference in price to support that decision. The A65 body is $900, and the kit is $1000. The A77 body is $1400 and the kit is $2000. Customers who already have a strong investment in Sony and Minolta glass may not care too much, and will opt for the body only approach. If you are interested in the A77 and acquiring the new 16-50mm f/2.8, the kit is $100 less than buying the lens and body separately (the lens as a standalone purchase is $700).

Certainly there are more differences than just that:

Yesterday we reported on Sony's announcement of some new digital cameras and lenses. While it took most of the day for us to update the blog and our website for these new products, we neglected to report on the introduction of new Nikon Coolpix digital cameras. Unfortunately, as the saying goes, there just aren't enough hours in the day. We have just updated our website with Nikon's new Coolpix's and are now happy to report on their introduction to the world.

Nikon COOLPIX P7100 Digital Camera

The flagship Coolpix model, the P7000, is getting an upgrade with the new Nikon COOLPIX P7100. The Nikon P7100 is not a total revamping of the P7000, which makes sense, otherwise Nikon would have probably named it something like the P8000. The megapixel count and lens (28-200mm equivalent) appear to be untouched. Nikon does state the image processing speed has been increased, in addition to better noise reduction for sharper, cleaner images. Many P7000 users will approve of Nikon's claim that the P7100 will have a "high-speed response with faster power-up time, focus acquisition and shooting time lag...." One issue many P7000 users had was the focus acquisition lag time. Two major physical changes are a new vari-angle LCD for the atypical shooting situation, and a front control knob for quick custom setting changes.

Nikon P7100 Vari-Angle LCD Monitor

Nikon has also upgraded the S8100 and S6100 COOLPIX digital cameras with the Nikon Coolpix S8200 (black, silver, red) and Coolpix S6200 (red, black, silver, blue, pink). Again, the small bump in model number suggests some small improvements. The Nikon S8100 was a very popular camera for us and we sold a ton of them. So, we naturally welcome an upgrade to this camera with the hope the S8200's performance will be improved along with the new model number. Both cameras get a longer zoom, which is what made them popular in the first place. The S8200 now boasts a 14x optical zoom (S8100 was 10x), and the S6200 features a 10x zoom (S6100 was 7x). It is quite incredible that Nikon is able to fit such extensive zooms in these cameras considering how compact--especially the S6100/S6200--they are. They really are pocket-able cameras.

Nikon COOLPIX S8200 Digital Camera

Nikon COOLPIX S6200 Digital Camera

The S80 has received a kick with the new Nikon Coolpix S100 (red, black, gold, purple). If you are not familiar with the S80, the Nikon S100 continues a long line of compact, touch-screen digital cameras. It wasn't too long ago that these touch screens were low-resolution and not very responsive to touch. The S80 showed us a nice, big, bright, responsive, and detailed screen. The OLED screen we saw in the S80 will again be in the S100, which we welcome because it was a good screen. The S100 styling looks to now be ultra-thin (less than an inch in thickness), and in Nikon's words "Ultra-chic". You can tell from Nikon's marketing this camera was designed for a specific demographic when they use phrases like "dance floor", "curves", etc.. That is not to say this camera cannot be for everyone, however. We have sold the S80 for many specific purposes. The first one that comes to mind is when we sold an S80 to researchers because they wanted to write a tag on each image as they were being taken to later identify the images for the research project being conducted.

Nikon COOLPIX S100 Touch-Screen Digital Camera

It wasn't too long ago that Nikon first introduced the S1000pj. It seemed like that was quickly upgraded with the S1100pj. If you are unfamiliar with these cameras, they are a truly unique crop of technology. These Coolpix cameras feature a built-in projector. The Nikon projector cameras have always been marketed with nostalgia in mind. There was really nothing like getting a group of people together, loading up the slide projector, and having an evening of photo sharing while staring at a wall. The S1000pj and S1100pj attempted to jettison this past time into the present tense. Nikon has now introduced the next generation of these cameras with the Coolpix S1200pj (black, pink). The Nikon S1200pj has now truly launched the projector camera line into this century with the ability to connect directly to iPods and iPhones, and project content like photos and videos from those devices.  With the S1000pj, you were only able to project what was on the camera. Then the S1100pj added the ability to connect other devices. Now the S1200pj is able to do all of that plus connect to handheld devices. This will make the S1200pj more useful for many different types of people than ever. One interesting thing that we have found with these projector cameras is that Artists love them. Go ahead, project details of landscapes, portraits, or whatever, directly on your canvas.

Nikon COOLPIX S1200pj Digital Camera with Built-In Projector

We have intentionally saved the sixth camera of all the new Nikon Coolpix digital cameras for last. With the above five cameras they are all an upgrade, or improvement, on already established camera types. This camera is a brand-new type of Coolpix for Nikon, however, and something we have not seen in Coolpix cameras. The Nikon COOLPIX AW100 (orange, black, blue) is Nikon's first underwater point-and-shoot digital, Coolpix camera. The new AW series is waterproof to a depth of 33 ft., shockproof from a drop of about 5 ft. up, and freezeproof down to about 14 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, it is packed with features like GPS and "e-Compass". Yes, if you are lost in the woods with this camera, you can find your way out (hopefully) with the built-in compass. The AW100 is 16 megapixels and has a 5x optical zoom lens (non-extending so it can't get bumped and broken). Nikon has introduced a new case to go along with the AW series also, and it features a carabiner for quickly attaching the case to whatever is available.

Nikon COOLPIX AW100 Waterproof Digital Camera

Nikon COOLPIX All Weather Sport Case

Today we received our first shipment of the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 IIR (2R) MSC lens. We received them in both black and silver. We were curious to see how the lens looked and felt compared to the previous version (II, non-R). So, we decided to place the two lenses next to each other and take a couple pictures. What we quickly discovered is that both lenses are essentially identical in size. After the photo shoot we even gave them a quick weighing and found them to be essentially identical in weight too, both weighing in at approximately 110-112g.

As mentioned, and as you can see, the two lenses are approximately the same height when collapsed. The newer lens (on the left), does appear to be a little bit taller, but this is just an optical illusion. There is actually a cosmetic cap that covers the bayonet mount, where you can add a dedicated lens hood (not included). We like this cap. We think it keeps things looking really clean. The only problem we can foresee is, what do you do with it when you use the dedicated hood? Seems like a piece that can get easily lost...

Here is the lens with that cover removed (don't lose it!). Just a simple bayonet mount under there.

Even with the lenses fully extended, both are essentially the same size.  Here you can see that both lenses are fully extended to 42mm.

Here's a top view of both lenses next to each other. Everything looks pretty much identical. The new lens still uses a 37mm filter. At this angle you can see how that cover we've been talking about really makes the lens look sleek and clean.

You might now be wondering, what does the lens look like on camera? Well, here it is on an E-PL2.

Looks pretty good, but not as good as on the E-P3. The E-P3 and E-PL3 are definitely designed with this lens in mind. The silver of this lens, as you may have already noticed, is different in shade than the silver of the previous version lens. It is a darker shade, and so it doesn't match the shade of the silver E-PL2 as well.

Finally, it looks nice, but how does it feel? The lens feels good, but you can definitely feel the difference in the gnarling of the grip around the zoom and focus. The grip doesn't feel as "catchy" as the previous version. Having said that, we didn't have any problem with our fingers slipping while on the grip. We did notice, to our surprise, a big improvement in the feel of the manual focus. The manual focus ring felt better dampened. Whereas, with the previous version, the manual focus felt loose and airy, the manual focus of the newer version lens feels tighter and more firm.