On the Market

Fall 2009, On The Market — By Richard on November 1, 2009 at 11:45 pm

DIGITAL CAMERAS AND BACKS

Leica Unveils Ultra-High-Resolution S2 DSLR

Leica has released its latest high-end camera, the S2 Digital SLR. The S2 is equipped with professional-quality 37.5-megapixel resolution and high-speed Maestro image processing, and is compatible with four available S-series lens options.
The Leica S-system, developed specially for digital-format photography, has a 30 x 45mm sensor that is 60 percent larger than that of traditional medium-format cameras. Large film speed options range from ISO 80 to ISO 1250.
Images are processed with the Maestro’s S2 high-speed system – users can take up to 1.5 images per second at maximum resolution. With the dual shutter system, users can take images at 1/4,000 second with the in-body shutter or high-flash images at 1/500 second with the in-lens leaf shutter.
The four new interchangeable lenses offer multiple shooting options. Covering the key focal lengths, Leica has created the Summarit-S 70mm f/2.5 ASPH – good for detailed close-ups and portraits – and the APO-Tele-Elmar-S f/180mm telephoto lenses. For close-ups and portraits, Leica has designed the APO-Macro-Summarit-S 120mm f/2.5; for wide-angle shots, it will release the Summarit-S 35mm f/2.5 ASPH.
For precise focusing, the S2 has a centrally positioned crosshair sensor. Images can be shot in autofocus mode using a high-quality microprocessor or overridden into manual focusing mode with a quick turn of the focus dial. Images can be easily viewed on the 3-inch LCD screen after shooting.
The camera body is available for $22,995, and the S-series lenses start at $4,495.

Leica | 800-222-0118 | us.leica-camera.com

Sony DSLR-A850 Incorporates Full-Frame Imaging Features

Sony has introduced the DSLR-A850, a full-frame 24.6-megapixel-resolution camera with an Exmor CMOS sensor, a three-inch Xtra Fine LCD screen, a pentaprism viewfinder and a nine-point autofocus system.
The new CMOS sensor captures more vibrant, lifelike colors and textures while producing images that pass through the noise reduction filter. With these two systems in place, images can still be captured in high-resolution format up to ISO 6400.
The 3-inch Xtra Fine LCD screen offers high-resolution image review, while the optical glass pentaprism viewfinder provides minimal distortion and 98 percent field coverage when setting up shots.
When focusing with the nine-point autofocus system, users are aided with focus assist points to help detect the subject and improve out-of-focus detection.
Additional features include the intelligent preview function, which previews image settings before taking a shot; “quick navi” mode to adjust settings with one hand; and the SteadyShot in-body optical stabilization system.
In addition to the existing full-frame lenses available, Sony has created the new 28-75mm f/2.8 SAM general-purpose lens.
The DSLR-A850 full-frame digital SLR camera retails for $1,999. The 28-75mm lens will be available in November for $800.

Sony | 800-345-7669 | sony.com

Canon EOS 7D DSLR Offers Enhanced Features for Mid-Range Photography

Canon has created the EOS 7D, an 18-megapixel SLR camera with fast 8-frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting, full HD video recording, and enhanced autofocus and manual exposure controls.
Shooting speed, increased to 8 fps, can freeze fast movements while retaining high resolution. With a film speed range of ISO 100 to ISO 6400, the EOS 7D has the capability to capture low-light images without a flash. The ISO is also expandable up to 12,800 with a flash.
Metering is adjusted with the 63-zone iFCL (intelligent focus, color and luminance) system. Image exposure can also be tuned with an easy-to-see spot-metering circle.
HD video exposure can be manually adjusted and shot in three recording modes: full HD at 1,920 x 1,080-pixel resolution in selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p; 720p HD recording at 50p or 60p; and SD video at frame rates of 50p or 60p.
Focusing features are calibrated with a multi-axis, cross-type, 19-point autofocus system that can be easily displayed on the viewfinder. AF mode adds diagonal cross-type sensors for f/2.8 and larger aperture shots. Other focus modes include spot AF, AF point switching and zone AF.
Additional features include intelligent macro tracking to reduce camera shake, wireless file transfer capabilities, pop-up flash and a 3-inch Clear View II LCD screen.
The camera is available in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $1,699 or in a kit with an EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens for $1,899.

Canon | 800-828-4040 | canon.com

Nikon Premieres Latest D300 DSLR with D-Movie Capabilities

Nikon’s latest D300 digital SLR camera, featuring new HD movie capabilities, is equipped with a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, improved Scene Recognition system and bracketed Active D-Lighting (ADL).
In HD video mode, the D300 records at 720 pixels/24 frames per second and records high-fidelity audio with either a built-in or external stereo microphone. While shooting video, users select 9-, 21- or 51-point autofocus and enable 3-D tracking.
For metering, the Scene Recognition and 3D Color Matrix Metering II Systems operate off the 1,005p RGB sensor. Photos can be taken at a film speed range of ISO 220 to ISO 3200.
Exposure settings are now more easily adjusted with the ADL system. By bracketing exposure levels in up to five locations on backlit or strongly lighted subjects, photographers can adjust shadows and highlights to create more balanced images.
Other features include dual memory card storage slots, quiet shutter release mode and a variety of in-camera picture controls.
The D300 is compatible with more than 60 Nikkor lenses, as well as the recently released AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II and AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II lenses.
The camera body has a suggested retail price of $1,799.

Nikon | 800-626-4566 | nikon.com

Leica Debuts M9 Digital Rangefinder Camera with Full-Format Sensor

Leica has introduced the Leica M9, the first digital rangefinder camera with a full-format 24 x 36mm sensor. The M9 uses the Leica rangefinder M System with improved setting controls, while all of the camera’s features and functions are designed, like its predecessors, for absolute dependability and endurance.
With an 18-megapixel CCD image sensor, the camera can professionally capture full 35mm film format shots. Compatible with all M lenses built since 1954, the camera is capable of a wide range of focal lengths from 16 to 135 mm.
Menu navigation has been simplified for more intuitive control. Simply holding down the ISO button and turning a dial can adjust camera sensitivity. Many other functions – including sensor sensitivity, exposure correction, white balance, image-data compression and resolution – are quickly and easily accessible by pressing the set button.
The new M9 viewfinder/rangefinder system is ideal for reportage photography, available-light exposures and discreet portraiture. The high-contrast viewfinder guarantees fast and precise focusing.
The camera features a silent, microprocessor-controlled, metal-leaf, focal-plane shutter that enables shutter speeds of up to 1/4,000 second.
The retail price of the Leica M9 is $6,995.

Leica | 800-222-0118 | us.leica-camera.com

Olympus E-P1 Offers Tiny Camera Body, Medium-Format Image Quality

The Olympus E-P1, the smallest digital camera in the PEN line, offers 12.3-megapixel resolution, HD video and stereo audio capabilities, and interchangeable lens options – all without the bulk of the optical viewfinder and mirror box.
Only 4.75 x 2.75 x 1.43 inches in size and weighing just 11.8 ounces, the E-P1 uses either a 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 or a 17mm f2.8 four-thirds lens. Images can be easily viewed after shooting on a 3-inch Hyper crystal LCD screen visible up to a 176-degree angle.
HD video features can be adjusted with effects such as pop art, soft focus, pale and light color, light tone, grainy film or pinhole mode.
For increased image stabilization and metering accuracy, the E-P1 features three modes of in-body image stabilization, as well as mechanical image stabilization to compensate for low-light and telephoto images.
An 18 x 18-metering grid adjusts the E-P1’s 324-cell sensor area. Center-weighted metering and spot metering modes are also available.
The EP-1 also features a supersonic wave dust reduction filter, a new TruePic V Image Processor, multiple exposure settings and a film speed range of ISO 100 to ISO 6400.
The camera body kit, including the E-P1 body and the ED 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko digital zoom lens, has an estimated selling price of $799; the camera with the ED 17mm f2.8 lens with optical viewfinder has an estimated selling price of $899.

Olympus | 888-553-4448 |  olympusamerica.com

Leica Releases Compact X1 Digital Camera with More Pro Capabilities

Leica’s new X1 digital camera, with a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and an all-purpose Leica Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 lens, has a 2.7-inch LCD display and is compatible with many Leica camera accessories.
With a more sensitive sensor, the X1 receives more light and guarantees low noise levels, a higher dynamic range and more accurate color differentiation.
Automatic functions range from precise autofocus to automatic exposure; however, shutter speed, aperture, focus plane and white balance functions can all be manually adjusted.
The X1 is compatible with a variety of Leica accessories including the 36mm bright-line accessory that offers optical viewfinding to save on battery power and the Leica SF 24D and SF 58 flash units, which can be used when shots require more light than what the retractable flash offers.
The Leica X1 will be available in December for $1,995.

Leica | 800-222-0118 | us.leica-camera.com

Panasonic Adds Flat, Compact DMC-GF1 Camera to Lumix Line

Panasonic has added the DMC-GF1 to its Lumix G Micro System line of digital interchangeable lens cameras. This model, more compact than its predecessors, has 12.1-megapixel resolution, HD video capabilities and a body that is one-third of the size of previous GF1 models.
In HD mode, the GF1 records in 1,280 x 720-pixel resolution. Video clips can also be shot in Lite movie mode when recording extended lengths of film. In Lite recording mode, users can select from three levels of motion image quality: SH (17 Mbps), H (13 Mbps) and L (9 Mbps). The wind-cut function works to reduce background noise.
Unlike Panasonic’s previous interchangeable lens cameras, the GF1 does not contain the pentaprism viewfinder. Having a mirrorless structure reduced the GF1 35 percent in volume and 26 percent in weight.
Artistic filters offered with the GF1 include eight “my color” modes – expressive, retro, pure, elegant, monochrome, dynamic art, silhouette and custom mode. In film mode, users can set the contrast, sharpness and saturation levels for each.
The GF1 also provides 16 scene recognition modes, including a new Peripheral Defocus mode that keeps the subject in sharp focus while gently softening the area around it.
The iA (Intelligent Auto) mode helps correct exposure, aperture and shutter speed while previewing on a 3-inch Intelligent LCD screen.
In addition to Lumix G lenses, the Lumix DMC-GF1 and Lumix G Micro System can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds standard via an optional DMW-MA1 mount adapter, as well as Leica M/R lenses via the optional DMW-MA2M or MA3R mount adapters, giving the user access to a huge range of compatible lenses.
The DMC-GF1 retails for an estimated $899.

Panasonic | 800-833-9626 | panasonic.com

Sony’s New DSLR-A500, A550 Provide More In-Camera Features

Sony has released two new entry-level SLR cameras – the A500, a 12.3-megapixel camera, and the A550, a higher-resolution 14.2-megapixel camera. Both cameras feature a 3-inch LCD screen, Live View features and Auto HDR capabilities.
The A500 has a 3-inch clear photo LCD Plus screen with a 180-degree tilt range, while the A550 features a 3-inch Xtra Fine LCD screen that offers the same tilt options with the higher-resolution screen needed for more critical focusing.
To quickly capture images, the Quick AF Live View feature enables faster continuous shooting speeds of up to 4 frames per second (fps) while using the preview screen, or 5 fps with the optical viewfinder. A new addition to Sony cameras, speed priority mode allows continuous shooting at 7 fps.
The Auto HDR (high dynamic range) feature allows the cameras to merge two successive frame shots at different exposure settings into one balanced image.
Additional Live View settings include Face Detection, Smile Shutter and Focus Check modes. The CMOS sensor works to create low-noise images and allows users to photograph images up to ISO 12,800.
The DSLR-A550 and DSLR-A500 digital SLRs will be available at the end of October and have an estimated selling price of $749 and $949, respectively.

Sony | 800-345-7669 | sony.com

Samsung HZ25W Houses Wide-Angle, Optical Zoom Lens in One Compact Body

Samsung has fashioned the HZ25W, a 12.5-megapixel camera that contains both a 26mm wide-angle lens and a 24x optical zoom inside the camera body. The camera also has HD video capabilities, multiple shooting priority modes, dual image stabilization and advanced Smart Face recognition technology.
Priority modes include RAW shooting, aperture priority, shutter priority and two “user defined” modes, as well as full manual controls. Images are enhanced with both optical and digital stabilization technology that reduces blur even in low-light conditions.
HD video shoots in 1,280 x 720-pixel resolution at 30 frames per second using a new H.264 format that takes up half the space of traditional mp4 clips.
Smart Face recognition technology remembers faces and prioritizes them when taking future shots. The camera can store up to 20 faces and allows users to search for a particular face in playback mode. Blink detection and smile mode prevent the camera from taking a picture when a subject’s eyes are closed or when they are not smiling.
The minimum advertised price for the HZ25W is $399.

Samsung | 888-726-7864 |  samsungcamera.com

Pentax Releases K-x Entry-Level DSLR with High-End Features, Interchangeable Lenses

Pentax has released the K-x, a 12.4-megapixel, entry-level camera with high-end features such as HD Video, Live View functions and two new compatible zoom lenses. The wide-screen HD video mode also captures images in 720-pixel resolution at 24 frames per second (fps).
Images can be viewed quickly on the 2.7-inch LCD screen by using the Live View function. While in this mode, users can manipulate contrast, detect phase difference and identify up to 16 faces with face-detection autofocus.
Other high-end functions of the K-x include true high dynamic range, which blends three bracketed images together to optimize shadow, highlight and midrange detail, a 4.7-fps capture speed, and 1/6,000-second shutter speed. The camera also uses an 11-point, wide-angle auto-focus system.
Pentax has released two lenses exclusively for the K-x: the DA L 55-200mm and DAL 55-300mm super-telephoto zoom.
The K-x is available in three configurations: The single-lens kit with the Pentax DA L 18-55mm lens retails for $649; the K-x twin-lens kit with the 18-55mm and 50-200mm zoom lenses retails for $749; and the K-x twin-lens kit with the 18-55mm lens and 55-300mm zoom lenses retails for $849.

Pentax | 800-431-5880 | pentax.com

Fujifilm’s S200EXR Upgrades FinePix Line with Better Sensor, In-Camera Features

Fujifilm has added the S200EXR to its line of FinePix cameras. The new model – replete with a 14.3x zoom lens and a variety of new settings, including Super Intelligent flash – has a 12-megapixel Super CCD EXR sensor and a 2.7-inch high-contrast LCD screen.The 14.3x zoom lens allows for maximum resolution, even with f/2.8 wide-angle or f/5.3 telephoto aperture settings.
Camera settings new to the Finnie line include three EXR Priority shooting modes: high-resolution (HR) mode, wide dynamic range (DR) mode, and high-sensitivity and low-noise (SN) mode. EXR Auto Mode offers six settings: portrait, night, macro, landscape, night portrait and backlit portrait.
Super Intelligent Flash eliminates the risk of flash washout by using a range of flash settings to more accurately capture both subjects and background.
The S200EXR has an estimated selling price of $599.

Fujifilm | 800-755-3854 | fujifilm.com

Ricoh’s GR Digital III Features Large-Aperture Lens

Ricoh has released its latest GR Digital III camera equipped with a faster image processing engine, a CCD sensor and a 28mm, f/1.9 GR lens. The camera also has a 3-inch VGA LCD monitor with a wide-viewing angle and can display up to 81 thumbnail images on a single screen.
The new large-aperture lens is designed to have a faster shutter speed to allow for high-quality macro images. Using enhanced noise reduction technology and processor speed, the GR III has increased 10-megapixel resolution, tone characteristics and saturation. The new high-sensitivity CCD sensor has increased the quality of low-light scenes.
The new GR Digital III has an estimated selling price of $699.

Ricoh | 877-212-6064 | ricoh-usa.com

Panasonic Crafts DMC-FZ38 with Hybrid Super Zoom Capabilities

Panasonic has released the Lumix DMC-FZ38 12.1-megapixel camera featuring HD movie capabilities, a 27mm wide-angle, 18x optical zoom lens and upgraded optical image stabilizer (OIS) technology.
The FZ38 has two HD movie options: HD Motion JPEG format and ACVHD Lite mode. In Lite settings, the camera can record twice the amount of footage. Video clips can be recorded at three speeds: SH (17 Mbps), H (13 Mbps) and L (9 Mbps). Sound is recorded in Dolby Digital stereo.
For wide-angle zoom photos, the FZ38 contains a 27mm, wide-angle Leica DC Varo-Elmarit lens with18x optical zoom. Both photos and video can be shot under these settings. The camera can achieve an even greater, 35.2x magnification in Extra Optical Zoom mode.
In addition to the improved OIS offered with this camera, the FZ38 contains Face Recognition, Intelligent ISO, Intelligent Scene selector and Intelligent Auto mode. With this particular camera, iA mode can register frequent names and ages for frequent photo subjects.
The FZ38 retails for around $659.

Panasonic | 800-833-9626 | panasonic.com

New Nikon D3000 Camera Allows for Greater In-Camera Flexibility

Nikon has introduced its latest D3000 digital SLR camera, which offers 10.2-megapixel resolution, an easy-to-use guide mode, an 11-point autofocus system and the ADL (Active D-Lighting) system.
The new guide mode offered with this D3000 allows new SLR users to view step-by-step instructions on the 3-inch LCD screen for common shooting situations and recommended scene modes to use for each subject. Users can also adjust images with the in-camera retouch feature.
Images are crisply captured with an 11-point autofocus system, split-second shutter time and 3-D subject tracking options. Images can be taken with a film speed setting from ISO 100 to ISO 3200.
Features new to this camera include the miniature effect, which changes the appearance of distant objects so that they resemble close-ups of miniature models, soft filter and color outline retouch.
Like the D300, the D3000 features the ADL system, which automatically reduces dark or backlit images by recovering missing brightness and detail.
The D3000 can be used with the full line of Nikkor AF-S lenses as well as the creative lighting system.
The camera kit, including the body and AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, has an estimated selling price of $599.

Nikon | 800-626-4566 | nikon.com

Canon Issues Next-Generation G11 PowerShot Compact Camera

Canon has released the PowerShot G11, the latest in the line of PowerShot cameras, with 10-megapixel resolution, DIGIC 4 image processing and a 2.8-inch vari-angle LCD screen.
For handheld photography, the G11 is equipped with a 5x wide-angle (28mm) zoom lens and an optical image stabilizer that allows lower shutter speed than non-IS cameras. Low-light mode allows shots to be taken up to ISO 12800 in reduced 2.5-megapixel resolution.
To improve image quality, the G11 is equipped with a dual anti-noise system, which improves noise performance by two stops, and i-Contrast technology, which prevents high-contrast blowout. Flash features include a high-synchro speed for overexposed scenes.
The G11 has been ergonomically designed with analog dials to make setting adjustments quicker.
The camera has an estimated selling price of $499.

Canon | 800-828-4040 | canon.com

Fujifilm Launches Digital Real 3D System for 3-D Images

Fujifilm’s FinePix Real 3D System imaging technology is the first to let users watch three-dimensional images – without wearing 3-D glasses. The FinePix Real 3D system includes a 3-D digital camera, a 3-D picture viewer and 3-D prints.
The FinePix Real 3D W1 camera, featuring a new 10-megapixel 3-D lens system, captures images with up to 3x optical zoom and up to ISO 1600. Both 3-D and conventional images can be previewed on the 2.8-inch 3-D/2-D LCD monitor.
The FinePix Real 3D V1 viewer displays three-dimensional stills and video on an 8-inch, high-resolution screen. The viewer also has touch screen controls and a convenient USB port.
Photos can be printed on a lenticular printing sheet to reproduce high-resolution 3-D images.
The camera and the viewer each have an estimated retail price of $600. 3D printing will be offered directly through Fujifilm with pricing to be announced.

Fujifilm | 800-755-3854 | fujifilm.com

Four New Nikon Coolpix Cameras Offer Touch Screens, Built-in Projectors

Nikon has released four new Coolpix compact cameras. The S70 is equipped with an organic LED touch screen display, and the S1000pj contains the first built-in camera projector. For a more economical option, the S640 and S570 are now available with improved in-camera features.
The S70, with its 3.5-inch clear color display, has 12.1-megapixel resolution and a film speed range of ISO 60 to ISO 6400. Touch-screen enhancements for this camera include the touch shutter feature, brightness adjustment and scene effect manipulation. HD video can be recorded at 720p.
While projecting slide shows from the S1000pj, users can add music, effects and creative transitions between images. With 12.1 megapixels, a 2.7-inch LCD display, and a film speed range of ISO 60 to ISO 6400, this camera can project images up to 40 inches.
Features offered in all of these cameras include the smart portrait system, which utilizes adjustment options such as the skin softening feature; VR (vibration reduction) image stabilization to minimize blur; and scene auto selector, which intuitively selects the appropriate settings for each picture. Each camera also has a 5x wide-angle zoom lens.
The S70 retails for $399, and the S1000pj sells for an estimated $429. The S640 retails for around $249, while the most affordable of these four cameras, the S570, is priced at $199.

Nikon | 800-626-4566 | nikon.com

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS Debuts with 20x Wide-Angle Super Zoom Lens

The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS, with a 12.1-megapixel resolution and a 2.5-inch vari-angle PureColor LCD display, features a 20x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom lens, HD video capabilities and enhanced preprogrammed settings.
The wide-angle zoom lens on the SX20 allows users to zoom from 28 to 560mm and features an ultrasonic motor and voice control motor for camera adjustments. Images are further enhanced with the optical image stabilizer and available low-light setting options.
HD video is recorded at 720p resolution with CD-quality stereo sound. Video can be played back on the camera with one push of the playback button or on a television by using the HDMI mini port connection.
Enhanced features include smart auto mode, which uses scene detection technology to register faces, distance, motion, color and brightness before selecting one of 22 preprogrammed settings, and i-Contrast, which modifies light balance to reduce shadows and highlights.
For photographers interested in additional flash options, the SX20 is compatible with Speedlite EX flashes – 270EX, 220EX, 430EX II, 580EX II – as well as the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 and the Off-Camera Shoe Cord OC-E3.
The camera has an estimated retail price of $399.

Canon | 800-828-4040 | canon.com

Panasonic Reveals DMC-ZR1 With Ultra-Wide-Angle Zoom Lens

Panasonic has released the new DMC-ZR1 with ultra-wide-angle 8x optical zoom and Power OIS (optical image stabilization) to its line of Lumix cameras. The camera has 12.1-megapixel resolution.
The 25mm ultra-wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmar zoom lens, is useful for landscapes, wide indoor shots and capturing distant subjects. By reducing resolution to 3 megapixels, the extra optical zoom function can reach 15.6x magnification.
Like other Lumix cameras on the market, the ZR1 comes with the new MEGA OIS to prevent hand shake when taking high-powered zoom, low-light or nighttime shots without a tripod.
Other notable features include face recognition, AF subject tracking, intelligent ISO and exposure control, and wide-screen HD video capabilities.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the ZR1 is $279.

Panasonic | 800-833-9626 | panasonic.com

Mamiya Releases Three M Series Digital Backs

Mamiya Digital Imaging has announced its new line of M series digital backs for the Mamiya 645AFDIII: the M18, M22 and M31.
The difference between these medium-format backs lies primarily in the resolution quality and ISO range. The M18 has an 18-megapixel resolution and a film speed range of ISO 100 to ISO 800; the M22 has a 22.1-megapixel resolution and a film speed range of ISO 50 to ISO 800; and the M31 has 31.6-megapixel resolution and can capture images up to ISO 1600.
All three backs have a 12-stop aperture range and a 2.2-inch LCD display.
Each digital back can be purchased separately or in a system kit with the Mamiya 645AFDIII camera and Sekor 80mm f/2.8 D lens.
Pricing is to be announced.

Mamiya | 914-347-3300 | mamiya.com

LENSES

Canon Releases Three EF, EF-S Lenses; One Featuring New Hybrid IS System

Canon has launched three EF and EF-S lenses: the extreme-wide-angle EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM; the wide-angle, image-stabilized EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens; and the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens, the first of Canon’s SLR lenses to feature the new hybrid image stabilization (IS) technology.
The new EF macro IS lens is the first camera lens able to compensate for both rotational-angle camera shake and linear-shift camera shake. This new lens dexterity works at up to four shutter speed steps.
Angle shake, or rotational shake, prominent during standard shooting, is reduced with an angular velocity sensor. Linear, shift-based shake – noticeable in macro and close-range shooting when the camera moves parallel to a scene – is adjusted with an acceleration-based sensor.
The EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens is compatible with all EOS cameras, while the EF-S 15-85mm and EF-S 18-135mm zoom lenses are designed specifically for Canon digital cameras compatible with EF-S lenses.
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM and EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lenses have estimated retail prices of $1,049 and $499, respectively. The EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 USM has an estimated retail price of $799.

Canon | 800-828-4040 | canon.com

DIGITAL MEDIA

SanDisk Introduces Higher-Speed Extreme Pro CompactFlash Card

SanDisk has released the Extreme Pro CompactFlash memory card, featuring a SanDisk Power Core Controller and an advanced memory controller. It is available in sizes ranging from 16 to 64 GB.
Offering higher-speed performance than previous flash cards, the new SanDisk card can read/write at speeds of up to 90 MB per second over a UDMA-6 bus.
Increased storage capacity enables photographers to capture RAW format images and high-definition video clips all on one card.
Fully compatible with any camera, the Express Pro will be priced from $300 to $800.

SanDisk | 866-726-3475 | sandisk.com

MISCELLANEOUS

Benro Tripods, Monopods, Heads Now Available in United States

Benro, manufacturer of tripods in China for more than 10 years, has earned a reputation for their high-quality tripods, monopods and heads, which are built to professional standards at an extraordinary value. It is the only company that makes its own carbon fiber tubing and their recent “Quick Lock” Leg System sets the new standard in flip-lock technology. The Benro line is now being distributed in the United States by MAC Group.
One of the most unique tripods in Benro’s lineup is the Travel Angel, an easy-to-carry, ultra-compact tripod available in both carbon fiber and aluminum that photographers can take everywhere. Travel Angel’s unique 180-degree fold-over design allows it to be folded into a compact package (up to 20% smaller than conventionally designed tripods) that can easily fit into backpacks or carry-on luggage, yet set up quickly and achieve excellent maximum height and a rigid, stable support. All kits include a BH-Series single action or B-Series dual action ballhead that matches the size of the tripod. Dual-locking, dovetailed Quick Release Plates or Arca Swiss style Quick Release Plates allow fast and secure camera mounting and dismounting without having to worry about accidentally unseating the camera.

Benro (MAC Group) |  914-347-3300 | benro.com

California Sunbounce Offers Durable Light Reflector

California Sunbounce has created a more durable light reflector, called the Perma-Tense Reflector Sun-Mover with Extra Permanent Tension.
The pop-up reflector, made with two built-in handles, an elastic hem and an oval frame, more consistently keeps the reflective screen under permanent tension.
The Sun-Mover, which can be adjusted solely by the photographer, eliminates the need for extra reflectors or lighting. Lightweight and foldable into one-third of its unfurled size, the reflector is built for easy transport.
The Sun-Mover comes in two colors: the Sunbounce zebra/white screen, which produces slightly warm light, and the Sunbounce silver/white screen, which creates neutral light.
Both screens retail for around $150 each.

Sunbounce | 908-754-5800 |  sunbounce.com/usa

BOOKS

Joseph Sohm’s €˜Visions of America’ Catalogs 30 Years of American Photography

American history teacher and photographer Joseph Sohm has released “Visions of America,” his collection of 1,300 images taken over the past 30 years. Accompanying these portraits are 21 essays Sohm has written to help answer the question “How do you photograph democracy?”
Winner of a gold medal at the 2009 Independent Publisher Book Awards at Book Expo America, “Visions of America” examines presidential politics and captures striking panoramas that depict the effects of global warming and urban decay.
In addition to this book, Sohm wrote, photographed and produced the Photo Symphony Concert for America, which premiered in Philadelphia days after President Obama’s inauguration. In conjunction with the launch of “Visions of America,” Sohm is creating a series of music videos for YouTube and other social media sites that will be released over the next year.
Sohm’s 312-page hardcover book retails for $60.

Visions of America LLC |  800-764-6872 | visionsofamerica.com

Jim Martin’s New Book on Ice Examines Past, Present, Future of Glaciers

Writer and photographer James Martin has published “Planet Ice: A Climate for Change,” a compilation of 120 color photos that capture an in-depth study of glaciers and ice fields and how they relate to our modern-day climate.
To create this book, Martin worked with Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, polar bear expert Ian Stirling, ice scientist Richard Alley, glaciologist Gino Casassa, and noted writers Gretel Ehrlich, Nick Jans and Broughton Coburn.
His images were taken in more than a dozen different locations, including Antarctica, Greenland, Baffin Island, Alaska, Mount Everest, Patagonia, Mount Kilimanjaro, the European Alps, the Canadian Rockies, Glacier National Park, Ecuador, Washington state and China.
The 176-page hardcover book retails for $39.95.

Braided River | 206-223-6303 |  www.planeticebook.com

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