Apple today introduced Aperture 2, the next major release of its groundbreaking
photo editing and management software with over 100 new features that make it
faster, easier
to use and more powerful. With a streamlined user interface and entirely
new image processing engine, Aperture 2 also introduces new imaging tools
for highlight recovery, color vibrancy, local contrast definition,
soft-edged retouching, vignetting and RAW fine-tuning, and lets users
directly post their portfolios on the .Mac Web Gallery for viewing on the
web, iPhone, iPod touch and Apple TV. At a new low price of $199,
anyone can easily organize, edit and publish photos like a pro.

...

Apple has released Aperture 2.1, which introduces an open plug-in architecture
that makes it easy for photographers to use specialized third party imaging
software right from within Aperture. Available today as a free software update,
Aperture 2.1 includes the Apple-developed plug-in, Dodge & Burn, which adds
brush-based tools for dodge (lighten), burn (darken), contrast, saturation,
sharpen and blur. Over the coming months, third party software developers will
deliver image editing plug-ins for localized editing, filters and effects, noise
analysis and reduction, fisheye lens correction and more.

...

Kingston Technology Company, Inc. announced it has posted an interview with
National Geographic photographer Gerd Ludwig on its `Icons of Photography'
microsite. The 20 Questions interview gives site visitors an up-close-and-personal
look at the world-class photographer who's captured life in conditions
ranging from -55° F to radioactive "hot zones."

...

Nikon Inc. has unveiled a completely redesigned Web site with a new visual
user interface that among other features utilizes images to display information
about Nikon's products and services. Visitors to the site will also have
an ongoing opportunity to offer feedback and suggestions about the site's
content and usability to help define the evolution of the site over the coming
months and years.



Similar to Nikon's imaging products, which rely on customers' feedback
for development, the new site will be a continually evolving forum thanks to
the addition of an innovative blog called "Your Shot" that encourages
users to comment and share their ideas to improve the Web site's design,
interface and content. This open environment creates an online space that is
better adapted to the needs of consumers and provides an unmatched level of
functionality for visitors.



The launch of the newly revamped Nikon Inc. Web site emphasizes a strong commitment
to photography. The Web site, www.nikonusa.com,
is accessible starting February 27th at 8 p.m. EST. To access the new interactive
site blog, please visit http://blog.nikonusa.com.

...