LATEST ADDITIONS

News
Microsoft Announces HD Photo, a New Imaging File Format
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 19, 2007

Microsoft Corp. has formally announced HD Photo, a new file format for end-to-end
digital photography that offers higher image quality, greater preservation of
data, and advanced features for today's digital-imaging applications.



This new, next-generation digital image format is said to offer the best solution
for digital image editing and storage and unlocks the potential for digital
photography on devices, applications and services. Microsoft also announced
that it intends to standardize the technology and will be submitting HD Photo
to an appropriate standards organization shortly.



HD Photo offers compression with up to twice the efficiency of JPEG, with fewer
damaging artifacts, resulting in higher-quality images that are one-half the
file size. In addition, HD Photo offers increased image fidelity, preserving
the entire original image content and enabling higher-quality exposure and color
adjustments in the image. This new format offers the ability to decode only
the information needed for any resolution or region, or the option to manipulate
the image as compressed data.



In addition, HD Photo offers both lossless and lossy image compression, and
can retain the full dynamic range and color gamut data from a camera's
sensor. Also, because making adjustments to common color balance and exposure
settings won't discard or truncate data as other common bitmap formats
typically do, it's easier to "undo" those changes at a later
time. As a result, significantly smaller files can be created while still retaining
optimum picture quality.



Microsoft also announced the beta release of a set of HD Photo plug-ins for
Adobe Photoshop software, developed with the help of Adobe Systems Inc. These
plug-ins enable users to both read and write HD Photo files from within Adobe
Photoshop software, and include support for high dynamic range pixel formats.
The plug-ins support both the CS3 and CS2 versions of Adobe Photoshop software,
and will be available for Windows Vista and Windows XP, as well as Mac OS X
(Universal Binary). A beta version of the Windows plug-in is available today
for download at the Microsoft Download Center at http://www.microsoft.com/downloads.
Microsoft expects to release finished plug-ins, which will be free of charge,
in approximately 60 days.



The HD Photo Device Porting Kit is also available for download at the Microsoft
Download Center, allowing manufacturers to add HD Photo support in devices and
to other platforms.



HD Photo is natively supported in Windows Vista by a Windows Imaging Component
(WIC) codec, and can be similarly supported in Windows XP and Windows Server
2003 through a free WIC download. HD Photo is also included in Microsoft .NET
Framework 3.0. With support on popular platforms such as Windows XP, Windows
Vista and Mac OS X, HD Photo will allow consumers to easily view, edit and share
images without conversion or special applications. The format also allows for
flexible metadata handling and supports industry-standard metadata formats.



www.microsoft.com

...

Continue Reading »
News
Lowepro Announces New Bag Lines
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 16, 2007

Lowepro has announced three new camera bag lines and styles. They include:



Primus AW: Unlike any bag currently on the market, Primus AW,
made from 51% recycled materials, enables photographers to carry and access all
the necessary components for outdoor photography while providing the highest possible
comfort and extreme protection. The main camera compartment is padded and holds
a digital SLR Pro body with zoom lens attached, in addition to 1-2 extra lens
or flash units. The camera compartment is expandable, enabling large equipment
capacity and quick equipment retrieval. The Primus AW offers photographers quick
and easy access to their equipment, without removing the bag, through expandable
side zipped camera pockets.



Vertex: Uniquely designed to deliver maximum comfort with minimal
bulk, the Vertex series is capable of carrying 1-2 pro digital SLR units, a large
35mm or medium format system, a number of lenses, a tripod or monopod, a flash
and digital accessories. Exterior features include the All Weather Cover, Lowepro's
adjustable Glide-Lock accessory attachment system for securing tripods and other
outdoor accessories, two outer pockets for memory cards and filters, plus a mid-pocket
which is large enough for most notebook computer models.



Napoli Pouches: Lightweight and compact, the Napoli series of
pouches are the perfect option for consumers to carry and protect their ultra-compact
digital camera, such as the Nikon CoolPix L3 and the Canon PowerShot SD450. With
its durable, fine-grain, nappa leather exterior and soft padded suede interior
this new line of pouches protects digital cameras against scratches and impact
when transported by hand, in pockets, purses or bags.
...

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Lexar High-Capacity Platinum II CompactFlash and Memory Stick PRO Duo Cards
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 15, 2007

Lexar has announced today that the company has further increased the capacity
of its widely popular Platinum II flash memory card line-up by introducing a Platinum
II 4GB CompactFlash (CF) card and Platinum II 2GB and 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo
flash cards.



Customers purchasing the new Platinum II 4GB CompactFlash card -- or other
select CompactFlash and Secure Digital (SD) cards within the Platinum II family
-- can also download free of charge a comprehensive software suite that includes
the full version of Image Rescue 3, the recently introduced edition of the company's
award-winning image recovery software, now featuring an easy-to-use redesigned
user interface. Also included is Corel® Snapfire Plus SE, an ideal application
for users who want to entertain friends and family with stored still images and
video. In addition, customers can download free of charge Lexar Backup n Sync
powered by Sharpcast, a simple-to-use application for automatically backing up
cherished images and syncing them across multiple devices and the web.



The Lexar Platinum II flash memory card line-up includes CompactFlash cards in
capacities of 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB, Secure Digital (SD) cards in capacities of 1GB
and 2GB, and a 4GB Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) card, announced earlier
this year, each of which includes the comprehensive software suite. The Platinum
II flash memory card line-up also includes Memory Stick PRO Duo cards in capacities
of 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB.



Lexar 4GB Platinum II CompactFlash and Lexar 2GB and 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo
cards will be available in late March.



www.lexar.com
...

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Legion Paper's Moab Colorado Fiber
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 14, 2007

Legion Paper has announced Colorado Fiber, the first of many new products to
be introduced by the new Moab by Legion Paper brand. Colorado Fiber, named after
the Colorado River, which breathes life into the Moab Valley and much of the
West, is a revolutionary new fiber art paper compatible with desktop and large
format printers.

...

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Adobe Unveils Plans for Two Editions of Photoshop CS3
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 13, 2007

Adobe Systems
Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) has announced that it will expand its digital imaging
product
line, offering two editions of Adobe Photoshop CS3. In addition to
the highly anticipated Photoshop CS3 software for designers and
professional photographers, Adobe will also deliver Photoshop CS3
Extended, a completely new edition of Photoshop which allows cross-media
creative professionals to stretch the limits of digital imaging.
Photoshop CS3 Extended includes everything in Photoshop CS3 plus a new
set of capabilities for integration of 3-D and motion graphics, image
measurement and analysis. Photoshop CS3 Extended also simplifies the
workflow for professionals in architecture, engineering, medical and
science.

...

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Control Your Focus With The ExpoAperture Depth-of-Field Guide
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 12, 2007

ExpoImaging, Inc., developer of innovative camera accessories, including the
ExpoDisc Digital White Balance Filter has announced the availability of the
ExpoAperture Depth-of-Field Guide, a pocket-sized circular calculator that gives
photographers creative control over their depth-of-field. The ExpoAperture2
Depth-of-Field Guide is available for purchase at select photography dealers
nationwide or online at www.expoimaging.net.



The ExpoAperture Depth-of-Field Guide is a simple and convenient reference tool
designed to enable the photographer to quickly evaluate the relative depth-of-field
(what will be in focus) given a chosen aperture and lens focal length. The guide
will just as easily provide the best aperture to achieve a desired depth-of-field.





The ExpoAperture Depth-of-Field Guide is printed front and back on three tough
circular plastic discs that rotate against one another, functioning as a compact
mechanical calculator. The Guide's ease of use makes this a perfect tool
for new photographers, helping them to determine the best aperture to achieve
a desired depth-of-field.



The ExpoAperture Depth-of-Field Guide is intended for the educational, hobbyist
and professional markets. The ExpoAperture Depth-of-Field Guide is compatible
with all film and digital SLR cameras and includes a Quick Start guide, instructional
CD, Camera Sensor Reference Chart, and a handy storage pouch.



www.expoimaging.net

...

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Nikon Introduces The D40x
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 08, 2007

Nikon has introduced the new D40x digital SLR camera. The D40x maintains the
same compact size, portability and ease-of-use as its already successful sister
camera, the D40, and adds features like higher 10.2 megapixel resolution, faster
continuous shooting capability and wider ISO sensitivity.

...

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Olympus Outlines the Next Chapter of its Professional DSLR and Family of Lenses
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 08, 2007

Olympus Imaging Corporation (President: Masaharu Okubo) is pleased to announce
the plans to significantly expand the Olympus E-System, its lineup of interchangeable-lens
digital SLRs compliant with the Four Thirds System standard. Two new cameras
are being announced today -- the E-410, an ultra-compact, ultra-lightweight
go-anywhere camera, and the E-510, a versatile, high-performance camera with
advanced functions including new Mechanical Image sensor shift image stabilization
A third, the successor to the revolutionary E-1 designed for professional use
and destined to take over as flagship of the Olympus lineup, will make its debut
this year.

...

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Kodak Easyshare Digital Cameras Combine High ISO and Image Stabilization
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 08, 2007

Eastman Kodak Company has announced the latest additions to its line of consumer
digital cameras, including the Kodak Easyshare Z712 IS and Z885 Zoom Digital Cameras,
with high ISO and image stabilization for taking great action pictures in any
lighting conditions.



The Kodak Easyshare Z712 IS Zoom Digital Camera combines a 12X optical zoom lens
(36-432 mm equivalent Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon) with optical image stabilization,
delivering superior performance to aspiring photographers. The 7.1 megapixel camera
is said to deliver best-in-class click-to-capture performance (0.26 sec.) with
superb picture quality at an affordable price, making it a solid alternative to
digital SLRs. Available in April, the Kodak Easyshare Z712 IS Zoom Digital Camera
will retail for US $299.95 (MSRP).



The Kodak Easyshare Z885 Zoom Digital Camera boasts a 5X optical zoom lens and
8.1 megapixel resolution. When combined with high ISO (up to 8000), it tackles
low-light environments and action situations with ease. The fast AF 5X optical
zoom lens (36-180 mm equivalent) combined with 10 automatic smart scene modes
makes it easy to get stunning shots every time. Available in May, the Kodak Easyshare
Z885 Zoom Digital Camera will retail for US $199.95 (MSRP).



Two additional digital cameras are announced today, including the Kodak Easyshare
C613 Zoom Digital Camera with 6.2 megapixel resolution and 3X optical zoom lens
in a compact and stylish body; and the Kodak Easyshare C763 Zoom Digital Camera
with 7 megapixel resolution and 3X optical zoom at a truly affordable price point.
Available in April, the Kodak Easyshare C613 Zoom Digital Camera will retail for
US $119.95 and the Kodak Easyshare C763 will retail for US $179.95 (MSRP).

Continue Reading »
News
News From PMA
Lexar Announces Extensive Software Suite to Enhance Its Flash Card Offering
Shutterbug Staff  |  Mar 08, 2007

Lexar has announced that it is making a new and extensive software suite available
for free download with purchase of select Lexar CompactFlash(CF) and Secure Digital
(SD) flash memory cards. The value-added software suite is designed to enhance
and improve the digital photography experience by providing customers with the
tools necessary to accomplish many common digital photography functions such as
image editing, storing captured content online, and recovering seemingly lost
images. In addition to sought-after image editing and management applications
from Corel, select Lexar flash memory cards now include downloadable Image Rescue
3, the recently introduced version of the company's award-winning image
recovery software that features a redesigned user interface, as well as Lexar
Backup n Sync powered by Sharpcast, a simple-to-use application for automatically
backing up important images and syncing them across multiple devices and the web.

...

Continue Reading »

Pages

X