Tickets priced under $4,500 and valid for travel through May 31 can earn customers 15,000 extra Club 48 bonus points or a Sony Cyber-shot digital camera.
Flights over $4,500 will earn loyalty program members 30,000 Club 48 points or a Sony Handycam digital camcorder.
The promotion is valid for flights across all destinations in the Eos network such as the new service from Newark to London Stansted.
Looks like word on the street has it that the Olympus E-330 DSLR will get a replacement in the form of the E-430, if a post on Photo-Forum.net is to be believed. The E-430 is tipped to come with a 12-megapixel sensor, a live view, flip-out 2.5″ LCD display, a wired remote option, a higher continuous shooting rate and a larger raw buffer. What is most convincing would be the image posted that looks real, but until Olympus makes an official announcement, this is relegated to the rumor mill.
Canon introduces its latest digital SLR for advanced amateurs and semi-professionals: the Canon EOS 40D. With a 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, 6.5 frames per second burst performance, a newly developed AF system and 3.0” LCD with Live View mode, the Canon EOS 40D makes significant advances in both performance and versatility. The Canon 40D camera benefits from the new EOS technology platform introduced earlier this year with the professional EOS‑1D Mark III. Canon’s DIGIC III processor delivers responsive operation, improved color rendering and near-instant start-up time. The EOS Integrated Cleaning System combats sensor dust, while a strong magnesium alloy body with weather resistance ensures lasting durability.
Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR
“The Canon EOS 40D represents an important step in the development of EOS for the advanced amateur market. It incorporates many of the technologies pioneered in our latest EOS-1 series cameras,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “For digital photographers, the benefits of upgrading to the Canon EOS 40D are real and significant. For analogue SLR users, there’s never been a more compelling reason to make the switch.”
Canon EOS 40D - Key features
• 10.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• 6.5 fps continuous shooting, max. burst 75 JPEGs
• New AF system with 9 cross-type sensors
• Canon DIGIC III processor
• 3.0” LCD with Live View mode
• Canon EOS Integrated Cleaning System
• Clear and bright viewfinder
• Customisable Picture Style processing parameters
• Speed and image quality
Canon EOS 40D - CMOS sensor
Canon’s third generation CMOS sensor improves on its predecessor with redesigned pixels that keep noise to a minimum. The EOS 40D maintains high image quality up to ISO 1600, expandable to H:3200 for situations where flash use is not permitted or desired. Highlight Tone Priority mode gives wedding and landscape photographers the option to boost dynamic range for highlights when shooting above ISO 200 – reproducing more tonal detail from wedding dresses, clouds and other light coloured objects.
Canon EOS 40D - DIGIC 3 image processor
The DIGIC III processor powers a burst rate of 6.5 fps, working with the image buffer to handle up to 75 Large JPEGs (17 in RAW) without pause. Images are processed at 14-bits for a greatly expanded colour depth, providing smoother gradations and exceptionally accurate colour reproduction.
Canon 40D - Cross type AF system
A key advancement of the Canon EOS 40D is its new 9-point cross-type AF system. All nine AF points can achieve focus on both horizontal and vertical planes. A central AF point is capable of accurate focusing up to aperture f/2.8, with eight outer points working up to f/5.6. In response to requests, the dedicated AF Start (AF-ON) button allows photographers to execute auto focus with their thumb.
Canon EOS 40D - LCD with Live View mode
The Live View mode simplifies shooting from awkward angles such as ground-level macro or mounted tripod shots. The 3.0” LCD displays a real-time image in Live View mode, including a selectable grid overlay and a live histogram that simulates image exposure. The AF-ON button can be configured to flip the camera mirror momentarily and engage auto focusing. For the studio environment, remote Live View lets the photographer compose, adjust settings and capture the shot from a PC using the supplied EOS utility software.
Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR - Total control
The Canon 40D is fully customisable to the photographer’s shooting preferences. The mode dial contains space for three sets of user-defined settings, allowing the photographer to switch instantly between several shooting setups. A new My Menu tab provides quick access to frequently used settings, while 24 custom functions allow photographers to fine-tune camera operation and controls. The ability to change the focusing screen - with two additional screens available - adds further versatility. For easier operation of system accessories, settings for the Canon Speedlite 580EX II and new Canon Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E3 can be controlled directly from the LCD.
Canon 40D Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E3
Also launched is the Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E3. Built to work with the EOS 40D, the WFT-E3 enables rapid wireless image transfer to remote FTP servers, along with two-way communication through PTP and HTTP. In HTTP mode, remote users can trigger the shutter button or download images from the camera via an internet browser window. PTP mode is used for wireless remote shooting with the EOS 40D and supplied EOS Utility software.
Canon WFT-E3
For longer shoots, the Canon WFT-E3 can connect directly to external hard disk drives (HDDs). And if connected to a portable GPS device, the location and time of capture is automatically added to each image as EXIF data. A convenient grip design features a main dial and shutter controls for vertical shooting, while weather resistant seals protect the unit.
Kodak Co., the photography company remaking itself in the digital age, said revenue may rise as much as 2 percent this year as sales of electronic cameras and printers compensate for a drop in film demand.
Revenue was projected to rise to $10.4 billion from $10.3 billion, the average of six analyst estimates in a Bloomberg survey, after a 22 percent drop in 2007. Digital camera and printer sales will increase as much as 10 percent while traditional film may fall 14 percent, Rochester, New York-based Kodak said in a statement. Shares rose in New York trading.
Chief Executive Officer Antonio Perez said today he will bring out 50 percent more digital products than last year. Demand for inkjet printers, one of the devices unveiled in 2007, may double to triple. Perez said he wants to convince investors that the four-year restructuring he concluded in December will create a lasting flow of revenue from accessories and supplies.
I know a lot of people who had that sparkle to do photography. In order not to confuse you guys I am talking about photography as an art. Their first and the main mistake was to make tons of money by making masterpiece from the first click and then creating exhibitions where photography critics would lose their consciousness. Guess what they all have failed because the motivation from the very beginning was wrong. They’ve invested a lot of money into top professional and expensive photo equipment thinking that this is the key to success. After making a couple of hundreds of pictures and creating entire albums, portfolios and electronic databases with usual picture taken by not a talented individual but by a hi-tech digital camera. Pictures that have no sense or soul. All of those guys at the end had to sell their fancy equipment because they had families to provide for and rents to pay. As a result we have money, efforts, time losses and depression. You have probably done all the necessary conclusions by just analyzing the information above but in order to make myself clearer I will quickly go through “how do I start?” methods I know.
So first of all it does not really matter how much does you camera cost, It can be even a freaking 1.3 megapixel phone camera. If you really have that feeling of a frame it does not really matter to you what to use in order to take the picture you just take it. As opposed to being all damn dressed into last models of digital cameras with all those $1000 lenses and tripods wondering the streets like an idiot picturing god knows what representing 0 value as a work of art.
If after 10-20-50 shots you’ve lost that sparkle of a photographer - you never had it. The motivation or, I should say, passion you were experiencing was nothing but an envy that came to your head after you’ve heard on the news that some fellow sold his photography collection for X million dollars.
If after more than 100 shots you can pick up at least 5 pictures you like and after showing 20 so-so pictures to your friends they say “not that bad” to at least 2-3 then I think you have it. BUT that’s far from even “so-so” remark of a photography critic. It can be a good beginning of your hard work becoming an amateur and then evolving to sort of professional.
Never lose passion, always be open for criticism of whoever you show your photographs to. Always take your time and observe works of famous photographers, read/listen what they say, they are never too greedy to share experience.
And one more thing, I think the most important one. Don’t you ever think to quit your job that generates your monthly income, feeds you and dresses you to do photography before you have reached a certain level where photography generates more monthly income than your job as whatever you are.
by Eugene Korshunovich
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10K is a digital single lens reflex camera designed for both photography enthusiasts and professionals.
Priced at US$1,299.95 the DMC-L10K is a DSLR camera with a full-time live view which lets users see what the camera sees in its LCD.
According to Panasonic, the DMC-L10K is “set to redefine DSL photography with its full-time live view and a 2.5″ angle LCD that provides greater flexibility”.
Key features include:
What the manufacturer says:
Featuring an advanced 2.5-inch free angle LCD for full time live view that offers 270 degree rotation and a versatile shooting style, a 10.1-megapixel Live MOS Sensor that provides the beautiful images with delicate gradation and wide dynamic range, dust reduction with a Supersonic Wave Filter system prevents dust from attaching to the sensor to degrade the pictures and a superb image processor, Venus Engine III, the DMC-L10K boasts a high quality image rendering and high speed response.
What punters are saying:
The new Lumix L10 may look normal at first glance, but Panasonic have pulled out all the stops to ensure that the L10 is unlike any other DSLR camera currently available. Drawing on their rich heritage of well-received compact and ultra-zoom models, the Panasonic L10 is the closest that you will get to a compact digicam in DSLR form, and is an ideal match for anyone upgrading to a DSLR.
Panasonic’s Lumix L10 certainly looks like a neat option for consumer DSLR buyers and features several unique aspects which separate it from the crowd including a flip-out screen, face detection, contrast-based AF during Live View and an optically-stabilized Leica kit lens. – Camera Labs
The DMC-L10 incorporates a variety of functions that build a bridge for the potential user of digital SLR to take a first step in a world of real creative photography or for existing users who have not been able to take best advantage of their conventional digital SLR cameras.
$700 DSL-R heat this week in Las Vegas at PMA exhibition. Top digital camera manufacturers stroke the consumer with not expensive AND very functional cameras.
- Canon’s DSL-R Rebel XTi equipped with 12.2 megapixel which is planned to be available in August for $799.
- Nikon is ahead releasing it’s D60 this month with onboard editing and a “Stop Motion Movie” features for only $750.
- Sony, Olympus, Samsung and Pentax are not far from the leaders with their own products that will not exceed $1K.
Essentially we can see a great tendency for consumers this year as the leading titans of digital camera industry keep their race for digital camera market that is of a great benefit not only for them but for consumers on the first place. They can be sure that their products will not lay on the shelf enough time to get covered with dust becoming popular even before availability.
Most forecasts of market analysts in 2007 were wrong about DSL-R’s sales. As sales and shipments of DSL-Rs in 2007 exceeded 7.4 million and are expected to go further then 9 million in 2008, that is more than 22% difference.
The new D-SLR’s on display at PMA ‘08 have selling points far beyond auto modes. Most are now using SD and SDHC flash memory cards, which consumers are accustomed to from their point-and-shoots. LCD screen sizes are big, often 2.7-to-3 inches, and many offer “live view” just like the compacts. Kit lenses, notoriously low-end historically, are improving as well, so consumers are likely to have more success (and less blur) right out of the box.
Once a consumer gets D-SLR fever, exhibitors say higher-margin tripods, zoom or macro lenses, flashes, memory cards and image-editing software are natural add-ons. Manufacturers at PMA are even suggesting point-and-shoots as a D-SLR accessory, noting that enthusiasts sometimes want a break from equipment-lugging. “We’re seeing a lot of households with a D-SLR and a bunch of Coolpix too,” says Nikon’s Heiner. “You don’t just sell one ‘family camera’ anymore. Now, everybody in the house has one.”
Canon EOS 40D underwater housing from Sealux : Sealux introduced its new CC40 underwater housing for the Canon EOS 40D digital SLR camera. The Sealux CC40 has an aluminium housing, milled of monoblock CNC, hardanodised and specially sealed for highest sea-water resistance. An exchange of the storage card is possible with the installed camera. The CC40 underwater housing has minimal dimensions and weight, and can be just up to a depth of 90m. The Sealux CC40 includes functions like a release knob, main dial, mode selection, ISO and flash +/- adjustment, operating switch, White-Balance, LCD illumination, keys for AF-ON, AE storage and AF-measuring field selection, multi-controller key, Quick dialer with adjustment key, keys for menu, replay, delete, jump, INFO, picture style, zoom, lens release.
Sealux CC40 underwater housing
• Control window: the monitor screen of mineral glass enables the complete control of the picture. The window for the LCD-display is amply-dimensioned.
• Handle support: with two ergonomic rubber soft handles and two T-pieces for two flash arms as well as equipped with two drills for safety loops. It is detachable for the transport.
• Closures: two flexible closures with safety lockings close the housing with high tension.
• Housing bayonet: unchanged, also perfectly suitable for new lenses with large diameter. The change of the lens is easily possible with installed camera.
• Flash sockets: You have the choice. For a reliable eTTL control with Canon system flashguns you need the S6 socket. For flashguns of the manufacturer Sea&Sea, Ikelite we recommend the five-pole flash socket with flexible contacts. For Subtronic analogous flashguns is probably the five-pole flash socket with fixed contacts the best choice.
• Special equipment: five-pole flash socket with flexible contacts or S6 socket, a second flash socket of your choice can be installed.
Sealux CC40 housing for Canon 40D - Viewfinder
• Optical viewfinder - the most important part of an underwater housing.
The Sealux viewfinders were especially developed for the needs of the digital cameras. The viewfinders do not cover the monitor and all keys can be operated very easily.
• GV-150 (Grand View): The viewfinder with the ideal angle of view of 150° offers the photographer highest comfort while picture taking near the ground or floating. Vertical or landscape format. The enlarged viewfinder picture is brilliant, sharp, bright and lights up every corner. The viewfinder ocular is adjustable to +/- 3 diopter and turnable with 6 settings steps. The sunshield is detachable. The viewfinder can be swivelled down for the transport or can be easily removed.
• GD-viewfinder (Grand viewfinder): a real action viewfinder! The high-quality, coated optics offers the photographer a brilliant picture at a dreamlike scale of reproduction. Sunshield is detachable.
• LD-viewfinder (Long distant): enables the complete contemplation of the picture and the adjusted data. The diopter focusing mount is not influenced, the picture only slightly reduced.Canon EOS 40D underwater housing - Domeports
• Flat- and dome ports: all flat and domeports are cut of optical glass and make it possible to use the Canon, Sigma, Tamron and Tokina lenses of best quality. All ports are delivered with protective caps. Please select the suitable port.
• Extension rings: extend the using possibilities of flat- and dome ports for different focal length with smallest packing dimensions. The well-proven Sealux bayonet remains unchanged, all ports are compatible with Sealux housings. Please select the suitable ports for the following lenses: Nikon, Sigma, Tokina, Tamron.
Canon USA, Inc.’s EOS Rebel series of digital single lens reflex cameras - the digital cameras that defined and refined what it means to be an “entry level” digital single lens reflex - have now redefined the gateway prowess and “pro-ness” of the DSLR category with the introduction of the line’s new leader, the 12.2-megapixel Canon EOS Rebel XSi digital camera. Incorporating a number of high-end functions and technology found in Canon’s professional Digital SLR camera models, the Canon EOS Rebel XSi digital camera boasts an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14-bit A/D conversion, an advanced Live View function, and the proprietary DIGIC III image processor.
EOS Rebel XSi DSLR kit
When paired with any of the more than 60 compatible Canon EF and EF-S lenses, including optically image stabilized EF-S lenses like the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS - now included in the Canon Eos Rebel XSi kit - or the new EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS, the Eos Rebel XSi DSLR delivers images that will delight and inspire family and friends at an entry level price tag. “This new Canon Eos Rebel XSi camera is the answer for those who have been waiting to make the leap from digital point-and-shoot to digital SLR or from an older SLR to the latest generation of advanced technology, while still including the creative controls their old camera afforded them,” states Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon USA.
Canon Rebel XSi - 3inch LCD monitor
At first glance, one notices the Canon Eos Rebel XSi’s large, 3-inch LCD monitor, enhanced from the 2.5-inch screen on the Digital Rebel XTi model. The larger 230,000 pixel screen makes it easier for users to review images and scroll through the Rebel XSi camera’s menus. The larger-sized display provides the ability to use a larger font size for menu text, making it easier than ever to read settings and options. The new screen also features a broadened color gamut, seven brightness settings for easy viewing under a variety of shooting conditions and a wide viewing perspective in all directions.
Canon EOS Rebel XSi digital camera
The new Canon Eos Rebel XSi camera features a substantial yet streamlined profile, with curved edges, contoured surfaces, conveniently placed controls and comfortably constructed rubber grip and thumb rest that all contribute to fatigue-reducing hand fit. The camera body is constructed of a rugged yet lightweight combination of stainless steel and polycarbonate embedded with glass fiber. The chassis exterior is enrobed in a durable ABS and Polycarbonate resin and offered in a choice of silver or black finishes.
12.2 megapixel APS-C size Canon CMOS sensor
At the heart of the new Canon Eos Rebel XSi is its newly designed 12.2 megapixel APS-C size Canon CMOS sensor. This new sensor employs large microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and enhance sensitivity up to ISO 1600, which is ideal for high-quality images in low light. The APS-C size sensor retains a 1.6x focal length conversion factor compared to full-frame digital image sensors or 35mm film format cameras. Another image quality enhancement is the upgrade of the Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion process to a 14-bit A/D processor. The inclusion of the 14-bit A/D process means the Rebel XSi camera records up to 16,384 colors per channel and allows the camera to produce images with finer and more accurate gradations of tones and colors. This is ideal for shooting outdoors where subtle hue changes in sky, water or foliage can really add to an image.
Noise Reduction functions
The Canon Eos Rebel XSi DSLR also incorporates the optional Highlight Tone Priority and High-ISO Noise Reduction functions first introduced in 2007 with the Eos-1D Mark III Professional Digital SLR and now available for the first time in an entry level Canon digital SLR camera. Additionally, the new camera is equipped with Canon’s Auto Lighting Optimizer technology, which corrects image brightness and contrast automatically. Introduced last year in the Canon Eos 40D camera, this valuable optional feature now works in all exposure modes and utilizes Face Detection technology to prevent underexposure with backlit faces.
DIGIC III Image Processor
If the 12.2-megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor is the heart of the camera, then Canon’s DIGIC III processor is the brain. The latest generation of Canon’s proprietary image processing engine, DIGIC III technology ensures that the fine details and natural colors of the images are optimally recorded. The DIGIC III processor also manages the camera’s efficient energy consumption and high-speed signal processing performance. The Canon Eos Rebel XSi is the first model in the Rebel series to incorporate DIGIC III.
Canon XSi DSLR
Introduced in 2007 on the Eos-1D Mark III DSLR, this function makes its debut in an entry level Canon DSLR with the Canon Eos Rebel XSi DSLR camera. Live View allows users to frame shots through the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder. Going beyond the manual focus and phase-detection AF capabilities of earlier Eos models with Live View, the Eos Rebel XSi camera adds a new “Live Mode” contrast-detection AF function that allows the camera to focus automatically during Live View without lowering the reflex mirror.
Canon EOS XSi
The Canon Eos Rebel XSi Digital SLR utilizes a precise nine-point Autofocus (AF) system featuring a newly developed AF sensor that improves the camera’s subject detection capabilities compared to earlier models. The new Canon Rebel XSi DSLR provides a cross-type AF measurement at the center that’s effective with all EF and EF-S lenses, while providing enhanced precision with lenses having maximum apertures of f/2.8 or faster. The cross-type AF measurement reads a wider variety of subject matter than conventional single-axis AF sensors and thus increases the new camera’s ability to autofocus quickly and accurately. The Eos Rebel XSi is also the fastest firing Rebel model to date, capable of continuously capturing 3.5 frames per second for bursts of up to 45 images in large/fine JPEG mode and 6 frames in RAW mode. The faster frame rates and finer focusing capabilities of the Canon Rebel XSi together with its impressive image burst rate will help photo enthusiasts preserve family milestones or capture split second sports action at just the right moment.
Canon EOS Integrated Cleaning Ssystem
The new Canon Rebel XSi DSLR utilizes Canon’s Eos Integrated Cleaning system, first introduced on the Eos Rebel XTi camera. The camera’s Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit shakes dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor. The dust is then trapped by an adhesive along the base, preventing it from causing further nuisance. Cleaning is engaged each time the camera is powered up or shut down or manually through the “clean now” function.
Digital Photo Professional software
The second part of the cleaning system involves post processing with a compatible personal computer and the supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Here the camera maps any spots that may remain on the sensor, saving it as Dust Delete Data and subsequently subtracting dust spots from the final image during post processing. A third option includes a manual sensor cleaning function which raises the mirror and allows users to clean dust that may have stuck to the low-pass filter.
Canon EOS Rebel XSi - Controls
In keeping with its Eos system heritage, the new Canon Eos Rebel XSi camera is equipped with a host of useful creative controls, including shutter speeds ranging from 1/4000 sec. to 30 sec. plus Bulb, a choice of four metering patterns including 4% spot metering (another first for the Rebel series), a wide range of exposure modes from fully automatic to fully manual, depth of field preview, mirror lock and much more. The new camera is fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses, as well as EX-series Speedlites, an optional Battery Grip, and remote control and viewfinder accessories.
Canon LP-E5 lithium ion battery pack
A departure from previous Canon Eos Digital Rebel models, which accommodated CF type memory cards, the new Canon Eos Rebel XSi camera utilizes SD and SDHC memory cards including those with capacities higher than 2GB, making it the perfect upgrade for users already equipped with SD cards from point-and-shoot model cameras. Additionally, the Eos Rebel XSi camera utilizes Canon’s new high-capacity LP-E5 lithium ion battery pack, which provides 50% more exposures per charge than earlier models with virtually no increase in size or weight.
Canon Rebel XSi Price & Availability
Expected to ship in April 2008 the Canon Rebel XSi camera is available in body-only configuration which includes a rechargeable battery pack and charger, USB and video cables, a neckstrap, an Eos Solutions Disk CD, and a 1-year Canon U.S.A., Inc. limited warranty. The new camera will also be available in a lens kit version which includes everything in the body-only kit plus the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. The two versions carry estimated retail prices of $799.99 and $899.99, respectively.
EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Image Stabilizer lens
First introduced in August of 2007, the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens is Canon’s answer to consumer demand for a high-quality yet affordable optically image stabilized lens and is included as the standard lens in the Rebel XSi kit configuration. The lens features the wide-angle to mid-range zoom flexibility of its non-IS predecessor with the significant advantage of Canon’s true optical, lens-shift image stabilization system that yields up to a full four stops of image-shake correction. The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-55.6 IS zoom lens sells separately for $199.99, but when customers purchase the lens kit version of the Rebel XSi the difference in price is only $100 from the price of the body-only kit. Canon is offering the lens kit at this discount so that more customers can enjoy the benefit of a lens based image stabilizer system.
Canon lens shift IS system
The higher performance provided by Canon’s lens shift IS system (compared with the in-camera body sensor shift type offered in some competitive SLRs) includes the ability to optimize the lens performance for specific shooting situations such as low light, long-zoom or movement while shooting (or virtually any combination of the three). What’s more, the photographer can see the optical image stabilization effect in the viewfinder. As the image already appears steady in the viewfinder or on the screen through the Canon Rebel XSi Live View function, better framing and composition is possible allowing the photographer to concentrate on the best shot more comfortably.
Canon EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS lens
Like the standard kit lens, the optional EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS offers users of Canon Eos Digital SLRs with APS-C type CMOS sensors an affordable, lightweight, high-performance lens with tremendous range and flexibility. Given the 1.6x conversion factor inherent in the APS-C sized sensor, the high zoom ratio of this EF-S 55-250mm lens actually achieves the equivalent focal length of 88-400mm (in 35mm format). Canon’s true optical, lens shift image stabilizer offers users an equivalent shutter speed that is approximately 4 settings faster, making hand-held lower light or long zoom photos easier to capture without blurring. What’s more, the lens can automatically distinguish between normal shooting and panning shots and select the optimum Image Stabilizer mode for each.</