Categories
Lenses Product Announcements

Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens

Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

Superzooms are typically average optical performers, but consumers love them. For lensmakers, they can be a huge bulk of overall sales, likely the reason why the Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS generates a huge amount of traffic for this site. It all started with the Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR DX, the excellent superzoom that’s only available for Nikon DX–sensor cameras. Sigma was quick to capitalize by offering an equivalent for other mounts with no counterpart for the Nikon 18-200.

Now enter the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens that seems to be a match to its Nikon counterpart. If this lens proves to be even just an average performer, a lot of EOS shooter will be sporting them in their bags simply because of the fact that it simplifies a lot of things. More specifically, this can easily be the favorite travel and everyday lens. Paired with an entry–level body like the 1000D or the 450D, or even the older 400D, you’ve got a camera/lens combo that should be enough for 95% of shots we usually take.

Now I’m just wondering if $699 USD is cheap; it doesn’t have USM after all.

Categories
Bodies Product Announcements

New Nikon D90 with HD Movie recording

Nikon D90

Here’s a world first: A digital SLR camera that shoots high definition (HD) video. Welcome the Nikon D90.

What its manufacturer may have intended to be just a simple replacement for the dated Nikon D80 may just be the dSLR to change it all. Armed with a 12.3–megapixel CMOS sensor, the D90 is capable of doing most things every digital SLR could do, but adds HD movie recording. Capable of capturing 720p (1280×720px) video, this camera enables video enthusiast to shoot footage utilizing SLR lenses that provide better depth of field control as a result of its larger sensor compared to typical camcorders. This may just revolutionize how videos are captured.

Here’s a rundown of other things on the Nikon D90:

  • 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS imaging sensor: Coupled with Nikon’s EXPEED image processing technologies and NIKKOR optics, breathtaking image fidelity is assured.
  • Continuous shooting as fast as 4.5 frames-per-second: Combined with fast 0.15ms power-up and split-second 65ms shooting lag, dramatic action and decisive moments are captured easily.
  • D-Movie Mode—Cinematic 24fps HD with sound: Record cinematic-quality movie clips at up to 720p HD (1280 x 720 pixels) in Motion JPEG format, enhanced by NIKKOR interchangeable lens quality and versatility.
  • Low noise ISO sensitivity from 200 to 3200: High signal-to-noise components and design deliver exceptional performance, even at high ISO setting.
  • 3-inch super-density 920,000-dot color LCD monitor: High resolution, 170-degree wide-angle viewing guarantees confident image review and movie playback.
  • Built-in image sensor cleaning: Effective 4-frequency, ultrasonic sensor cleaning frees image degrading dust particles from the sensor’s optical low pass filter.
  • 11-point AF system with Face Priority: Consistently fast and accurate autofocus, reinforced by the Nikon Scene Recognition System, delivers razor sharpness in a wide variety of conditions.
  • One-button Live View: Easy to use Live View activates access to 3 contrast detection focus modes including Face Priority AF.
  • Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II with Scene Recognition System: Nikon’s renowned 420-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II, teamed with the exclusive Scene Recognition System, evaluates images, referencing an on-board database of over 30,000 photographic scenes, for unmatched exposure accuracy.
  • Comprehensive exposure control: Five advanced scene modes plus Program Auto, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Manual.
  • Auto Active D-Lighting: Selectable and Automatic, Active D-Lighting optimizes details within shadows and highlights, taming high-contrast situations in real time.
  • Durable, high precision shutter: Testing to over 100,000 cycles assures shutter life and accuracy.
  • In-Camera Image Editing: Creative freedom stems from exclusive in-camera image editing, featuring Fisheye effect, Straighten and Distortion Control as well as D-Lighting, Red-eye Reduction, Image Overlay, Monochrome and more.
  • GPS geo-tagging: GP-1 GPS unit (optional) provides automatic real-time geo-tagging.

The announcement of Canon’s 50D made some heads turn as Canon delivers a new camera sooner than the market expected, however Nikon’s D90 clearly has the spotlight right now. As it stands, Nikon seems to have the more complete and diverse lineup compared to Canon’s digital SLR bodies, especially in the middle to the topmost range. If only Nikon had a more reputable service here in the Philippines, they’d easily leave Canon in their dust.

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Bodies Product Announcements

Canon EOS-50D officially announced

Canon EOS-50D

Not too long ago, the rumored successor to the 40D just seemed too unreal with the 40D just more than a year old. But with the recent announcement of the Canon EOS-50D, we have now confirmed that Canon has finally picked up the pace to go head–to–head with its competitors.

Here’s the official spec of the 50D:

  • 15.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
  • 6.3fps continuous shooting, max. burst 90 JPEGs with UDMA card
  • DIGIC 4 processor
  • ISO 100-3200, expandable to 12800
  • 9-point wide area AF
  • 3.0-inch Clear View VGA LCD with Live View mode & Face Detection Live AF
  • Magnesium alloy body, with environmental protection
  • EOS Integrated Cleaning System
  • HDMI connection for high quality viewing and playback on a High Definition TV
  • Full compatibility with Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX-series Speedlites

Certainly, the Canon EOS-50D is a solid camera just like the 40D it replaces. Worthy of note is the new 15–megapixel CMOS sensor that supposedly produces smooth images with less noise compared to its predecessor. Canon adopted a new manufacturing process and utilized redesigned photo diodes and microlenses, allowing for better light–gathering properties while fitting more pixels in the same sensor size.

Personally, I am not a fan of the megapixel race and stopped caring once it reached 10–megapixel. Photographers wouldn’t know mind though if all these changes result in the most important improvement — better image quality. Now, ISO goes up to 3200 with expanded options that give ISO 6400 and 12800. Now we’re talking really tangible improvements.

Everything seems promising if all promised improvements are indeed true. Pegged at $1399 USD, the Canon EOS–50D provides a viable upgrade path for EOS shooters looking to improve their arsenal.

For more information, here’s Rob Galbraith’s breakdown of the camera while DPReview has a hands–on of the 50D.

Categories
News

Flickr + Getty Images

No, this is not a buyout. It’s just a deal between two prominent names in photography, which simply makes it easier for Getty Images to invite noteworthy Flickr users to add their photos to their catalog.

Strobist has a Flickr/Getty FAQ that helps explain everything.

Categories
Bodies Rumors

Canon EOS-50D rumored specifications

Canon EOS-50D

It’s rumor time once again! Photography forums are abuzz with what is rumored to be a replacement for the Canon EOS-40D, named the Canon EOS-50D. Of course rumors like this should be taken with a grain of salt, especially when originating from popular forums known with a wide range of users. But here’s the specs anyway:

  • 12.2 Megapixel APS-C sensor
  • Single Digic III Processor
  • ISO 100-3200 (High 6400)
  • 6-8 fps depending on grip
  • 3″ High Resolution OLED LCD
  • Will accept EF and EF-S Lenses
  • 11 point AF
  • 35 Zone metering
  • Viewfinder: 100 percent coverage .95 magnification
  • Pop up flash
  • New Lithium Ion Battery
  • Weather sealing slightly better than 40D

With these rumored details, I don’t think it’s as exciting as it deserves to be. When considering the 40D and similarly–positioned cameras from Nikon like the D300 (and maybe the D700), this news bit better be false or Canon will continue losing market share.

Categories
Bodies News

Canon EOS Rebel XS: $699 USD

Canon has officially set the US price for their new entry level EOS Rebel XS at $699 USD. This is for the complete kit that comes with the IS version of the 18–55mm kit lens. The kits will be available in August. Related to this, the updated flash Canon Speedlite 430EX II is also set to retail for $329 USD.

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News P&S Digitals Product Announcements

Ricoh Caplio GX-200

Ricoh Caplio GX-200

This is the serious enthusiast’s everyday camera. Heck, this could even be the pro’s walkaround camera. The Ricoh Caplio GX–200 is the updated version of the well–received GX–100, a camera that has received positive reviews from discerning photographers.

The GX–200 is mostly the same as the model it replaces, retaining its great features while sporting some new updates:

  • 12 megapixel high-performance 1/1.7-inch CCD
  • New image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine III allows for better noise control
  • 24 to 72 mm equivalent wide-angle zoom lens with aperture ofv F2.5 (wide) to F4.4 (tele-photo).
  • Large, high-resolution 2.7-inch, 460,000-dots HVGA LCD
  • Electronic leveling through an acceleration sensor
  • Expanded buffer memory allows continuous shooting of up to ?ve images in RAW mode
  • Comprehensive flash functions on the GX200 with light intensity adjustment function (-2.0 EV to +2.0 EV), a manual ?ash output control, and a ?ash synchro setting where ?ash timing can be set as 1st or 2nd curtain
  • An auto rotate function for image review
  • Auto level correction function for controlled shadows and highlights
  • Distortion correction function
  • Enhanced in–camera image editing functions

Ricoh’s recent models have been known to perform well when used as a black & white camera; the GX–200 is no exception and continues the trend. And the good thing about the GX–200 is that it’s very pocketable thus making it very friendly for casual shooting.

If reviews turn out favorable, I just might get a Ricoh Caplio GX–200 soon. ;)

Categories
Bodies News Product Announcements Site News

Full-frame Nikon D700 Launched

Nikon D700

The recent release of the full–frame Nikon D700 has got the DSLR market talking again. Just like how proshooters responded when Nikon surprised us with their top–of–the–line D3, the D700 appears to raise even more interest and should sell more once it starts shipping.

The Nikon D700 is positioned to sell for 3000 USD, right in the range of the aging Canon EOS–5D. Though the camera is not a direct competitor to Canon’s offerings, it sends a strong message to the market that Nikon is back in the game indeed. With two full–frame FX–sensor cameras in just a year, it makes Canon and other digital SLR manufacturers appear lagging behind in terms of product development.

Here are the main features of the Nikon D700:

  • 12.1 megapixel full-frame sensor (8.45µm pixel pitch)
  • Image Sensor Cleaning (vibration)
  • ISO 200 – 6400 (with boost up to ISO 25600 and down to ISO 100)
  • Also supports DX lenses, viewfinder automatically masks (5.1 megapixels with DX lens)
  • 14-bit A/D conversion, 12 channel readout
  • Same ultra-fast startup and shutter lag as D3
  • Nikon EXPEED image processor (Capture NX processing and NR algorithms, lower power)
  • New Kevlar / carbon fibre composite shutter with 150,000 exposure durability *
  • Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)
  • Auto-focus tracking by color (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)
  • 95% coverage, 0.72x magnification viewfinder
  • Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning), fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings
  • Scene Recognition System (uses AE sensor, AF sensor)
  • Picture Control image parameter presets
  • 5 frames per second continuous with auto-focus tracking
  • Optional MB-D10 Battery Pack (same as D300), increases burst rate to 8 fps
  • UDMA compatible single CF card slot
  • 3.0″ 922,000 pixel LCD monitor
  • Live View with either phase detect (mirror up/down) or contrast detect Auto Focus
  • Virtual horizon indicates if camera is level (like an aircraft cockpit display)
  • HDMI HD video output
  • ‘Active D-Lighting’ (adjusts metering as well as applying D-Lighting curve)
  • Detailed ‘Control Panel’ type display on LCD monitor, changes color in darkness
  • Magnesium alloy body with connections and buttons sealed against moisture
  • Improved Info display on main screen

With the look of things, I think we have a market–changing camera in the Nikon D700. This should get Canon evaluating their product development plans as the market clamors for more value in their cameras. I truly believe the Nikon D700 will be one of the most used cameras in recent times.

Here’s more coverage on the Nikon D700 from Michael Reichmann and Rob Galbraith.

Categories
Bodies News Product Announcements

Canon EOS-1000D Announced

Canon EOS-1000D

This is rather late news since every other photography site actually tried to scoop everyone else, but it’s still worth mentioning that Canon has just announced their entry level Canon EOS–1000D which will also be known as the Digital Rebel XS. Quite obviously, this camera is a response to Nikon’s three–headed entry–level team composed of the D40, the D40X, and the D60.

Anyone who’s familiar with Canon’s digital SLR lineup would surely notice that the EOS–1000D is a cross–breed of the older 400D and the current 450D. It carries a 10–megapixel CMOS sensor, 3 FPS continuous shooting, and a 2.5–inch LCD, features that were upgraded when Canon released the 450D. The body and button layout are inherited from the 450D, including the image–stabilized kit lens, but some features are clearly limited to make it a lower camera compared to the 450D. A blatant non–existent feature is the sensor found just under the optical viewfinder of the 400D and the 450D; this means that the rear LCD will most likely behave similar to Nikon’s models — you have to manually turn them off when you take them to eye level.

The introduction of this model is an interesting twist in Canon’s lineup, raising the doubts on the market value of the 450D since it is just marginally better than the 1000D. For less money, you get a camera of almost the same usability and value. If I were looking for a backup camera on a limited budget, I won’t hesitate picking the 1000D over the 450D. For first–time digital SLR owners though, it is too close to call and would largely depend on your budget and deals offered. Either way, you still get a perfectly usable camera. I think Canon just introduced another great seller in the EOS–1000D, I just hope it isn’t at the expense of the 450D.

Categories
Lenses

Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM

Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM

Are you shooting full–frame? If you’re looking for alternatives to normal lenses from Canon and Nikon, maybe you should consider the soon to be available Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM.

Sigma has finally decided to create a normal lens that should be a cheaper option if you’re looking for something with at least f/1.4 maximum aperture. Based on their product specifications page, this lens is optimized for digital sensors but should work with any full–frame camera.

However, based on our experience with most Sigma lenses, this lens should be good enough but definitely not way better than its Nikon and Canon counterparts especially in terms of performance. But if Sigma puts this in a cheaper price point, there should be enough takers for it to be considerably successful.

Categories
Firmware Software

Canon EOS-40D Firmware 1.0.8

Shooting with a Canon EOS-40D? Be sure to update to the latest firmware update, version 1.0.8 was released several days ago and should make your workhorse work as good as the latest ones of the factory lines.

Categories
Bodies News Rumors

Canon EOS-5D Mark II Rumors

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

Speculations are alive about the reported replacement for the overdue Canon EOS–5D, expectedly marked as the Canon EOS–5D Mark II. Not necessarily revolutionary, the leaked specs still suggest a modest upgrade from the first generation full–frame digital SLR. As said in the DP Review forums:

The new 5D II will not be released at Photokina, but instead will be a surprise announcement on April 22, according to a source I am unwilling to disclose. The specs of the new camera are as follows (final name unavailable):

  • 15.3 MP full frame CMOS sensor (vastly improved light-gathering capacity per pixel: improved micro lenses; miniaturized micro circuitry; enhanced signal/noise ratio)
  • Weather sealing same as 1Ds Mark III
  • Dual Digic III with all-new “CXR” NR system reported to best 3rd party NR software. Available as a C.F with 4 levels of customizable parameters.
  • 14 bit A/D conversion
  • ISO 12800 (C.F. up to 25600)
  • Reported 1 2/3 stop sensitivity improvement
  • All-new 29-point TTL CMOS sensor with 12 cross-type for F/2.8 or faster lens (35% faster than 40D)
  • Micro lens fine adjustment for up to 14 lenses
  • 300,000 exposure shutter durability
  • 6.0 / 3.0 fps
  • 3.0″ LCD, 922,000 pixels
  • EOS Integrated Cleaning System
  • Live View (improved from 450D; latest generation)
  • 6/3 fps continuous shooting for up to 68 frames
  • MSRP $3499, available June 2

With this long list of realistic enough details, it seems the leaked info may prove to be true. What I’m not too happy about though is the ~$3500 USD price tag, putting it much higher than the first 5D. Quite unusual since Canon’s digital SLR line has a history of decreasing prices for newer and better models. $2500 USD would’ve been more right and puts it in a reasonale range compared to offerings from other DSLR makers.

But wait, is this really the Canon EOS–5D Mark II?

Categories
Bodies News Product Announcements

The new Nikon D60

Nikon D60

Seriously big new: Nikon announces the new Nikon D60.

Much to the disappointment of Canon fans thinking the Canon EOS–450D/XSi will reclaim the entry–level dSLR market, Nikon continues to milk profits from its best–selling D40 by morphing it into another better product just like the D40x.

From the outside, the Nikon D60 is the same as the D40 but with some key changes, like:

  • 10.2–megapixel CCD sensor (up from 6 on the D40)
  • Active D-lighting (same as that on the Nikon D300)
  • EXPEED, Nikon’s digital image processing technology, a response to Canon’s DIGIC
  • 3x zoom AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens
  • Stop-Motion Movie mode, allowing users to produce stop–motion movies that have been fairly popular these days
  • Image Sensor Cleaning function + Airflow Control System, a 2–step approach to keeping dust and dirt away from your sensor

The Nikon D60 adds a lot of consumer–aimed features, it being marketed to the beginner types just like the D40. Instead of using a 3–inch LCD, Nikon has decided to stick with the same 2.5–inch display and focus on adding relevant features instead. Compared to the new offerings from Pentax and Samsung, the D60 holds its own and should be a strong contender in this market segment.

Buying a digital SLR? The Nikon D60 should be just as good an option as those recently announced and soon available. There’s no reason not to get one soon!

Categories
Bodies News Product Announcements

The digital SLR bunch

Almost released at the same time as the Canon EOS-450D/XSi, the Pentax K20D, Pentax K200D, and the Samsung GX-20 are three new digital SLR models aiming to grab a portion of the entry–level DSLR market that has rapidly been growing the past few years.

Pentax K20D

The Pentax K20D is an upgrade to their successful K10D, adding a 14.6–megapixel CMOS sensor now capable of live view functionality and an expanded dynamic range.

Samsung GX-20

The Samsung GX-20 is reportedly the same as the Pentax K20D, though Samsung claims that its model uses its own JPG processing algorithm.

Pentax K200D

Lastly, the Pentax K200D is an upgrade to the beginner–level k100D, now with a 10.2–megapixel anti–shake CCD inside a weather–sealed body.

With all these new digital SLR models crowding the market, prices should go further down — pleasant news to all consumers. So if you’re looking to buy your first digital SLR, there’s no better time than now!

Categories
Bodies News Product Announcements

The new Canon EOS-450D/XSi

Canon EOS-450D/XSi

Just in case you haven’t heard about it, Canon has released their latest consumer digital SLR, the Canon EOS-450D/XSi.

Not simply an updated 400D, this model is a completely new creation that looks far more professional than previous entry–level Canon SLRs. Listed in it’s special site as highlighted features are:

  • 12.2–megapixel CMOS Sensor and DIGIC III
  • Image Stabilizer (IS) Lens Support
  • EOS Integrated Cleaning System
  • Continuous 3.5fps Shooting
  • Live View Shooting
  • Precise 9–point Auto Focus
  • Auto Lighting Optimizer
  • 3.0–inch LCD Monitor
  • Lightweight Body, SD Card Compatibility
  • Viewfinder with 0.87x Magnification
  • Comfortable, Easy Operation
  • Comprehensive System Enhancements

With all the other announcements in the entry–level SLR market, Canon is pressed to deliver a better camera that can compare well against other offerings, especially those from Nikon like the  D40 and the D40x which has handily captured a significant slice of the pie. The way it looks, the 450D appears to be a good contender, but is it going to be enough to reclaim their share of the market?

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Links

Getting a Nikon, or a Canon?

Are you having a long time deciding which new digital SLR to get for Christmas? Do the Nikon D3 or the D300 seem so inviting, or would you rather have the Canon EOS 40D, or a 5D? Or are you on a budget and would rather get the cheap yet very useful Nikon D40?

This high ISO comparison of various current model SLRs should help you decide. If you’re torn between the D3 and the D300, here’s a breakdown of what makes them the same, and what makes them different.

Remember though that there are more important things to a camera than technical specs and tests.

Categories
Bodies Reviews

Nikon D3 First Use

Nikon D3

Wondering how impressive the Nikon D3 can be in the wild? James Russell over at Luminous Landscape got to use one while shooting an assignment in Osaka, Japan and seems very impressed.

Being a RAW shooter, he was apprehensive about testing it since the RAW tools for the D3 were not yet up to speed. Because of this, he used JPG for his out. Surprisingly, the untouched JPG output was so good that he could apply his RAW workflow to it and achieve the results he wants.

I don’t think it would be a surprise to see most pros shoot with a Nikon D3 in 2008, because it seems to be every camera it was designed to be.

Categories
Lenses Product Announcements

Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM

Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM

The Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM is another new lens announced by Sigma that should get other lens makers quickly making their own equivalent. Just like the probably more interesting Sigma 4.5mm F2.8 EX DC Circular Fisheye HSM, this is another prime fisheye that should fill the void for APS–C digital SLR shooters who have long been yearning for a fisheye lens for dSLR bodies. Unlike the other fisheye lens, the image produced is not labeled “circular fisheye” which means it will have exaggerated perspective and distortion.

The produced image will have a diagonal angle of view of 180 degrees for Nikon APS–C (1.5x crop), while 154 and 167 degrees for Sigma and Canon respectively. Other details worthy of note:

  • Fisheye lens designed specifically for APS-C digital SLR cameras
  • 13.5cm minimum focusing distance and 1:3.3 maximum magnification allows close up photography
  • Equipped with HSM allowing full-time manual focus override
  • Equisolid angle projection system is possible for art and scientific use

With two fisheyes coming from Sigma really soon, can we expect other manufacturers to compete with this segment of the market?

Categories
Lenses Product Announcements

Sigma 4.5mm F2.8 EX DC Circular Fisheye HSM

Sigma 4.5mm F2.8 EX DC Circular Fisheye HSM

Sigma has just announced the first circular fisheye lens for APS–C digital SLR cameras in the Sigma 4.5mm F2.8 EX DC Circular Fisheye HSM. When used in a 1.5x crop SLR body like the new Nikon D300 as well as those before it, this new lens will produce an image with a 180 degree angle of view. Worthy of note are:

  • The first 180 degree circular fisheye lens designed specifically for APS-C size digital SLR cameras
  • Fast F2.8 maximum aperture making it ideal for low light photography
  • Minimum focusing distance of 13.5cm and a maximum magnification of 1:6
  • SLD glass minimizes color aberration
  • Equipped with HSM with full-time manual focus override
  • Equisolid angle projection method is possible for art and scientific use

Since this will be the very first lens of this type for APS–C cameras, this should sell relatively well until other lens manufacturers follow suit. Hopefully, this lens will be relatively affordable and good enough for the demands of today’s high–resolution cameras.

Categories
Bodies News

Nikon D300 now shipping!

Nikon D300 now shipping.

In case you haven’t heard of it, the much–awaited Nikon D300 is now shipping and has started its first (though not few) lucky owners. Ken Rockwell shares his first thoughts on it too, just hours after got his D300.

Why do I see myself reading more about Nikon cameras these days?