Shutterbug Staff

Sigma Corporation has announced their new 500 F4.5 APO EX DG HSM lens.
This ultra-telephoto lens has a fast maximum aperture, and also features a new super multi-layer coating, which optimizes the characteristics of digital SLR cameras.
Two ELD glass elements in the front lens elements reduce chromatic aberration to a minimum and also ensure sharp, quality images of high contrast. The overall length of the lens does not change during focusing, ensuring convenient handling and ease of use.
...

Phase One has updated Capture One RAW Workflow to support more cameras, more
RAW file formats and Intel-based Macs. Capture One 3.7.4 is a Universal Mac
application designed to run natively on both Intel and PowerPC-based Mac computers.
Initial tests by the company show that the capture rate has increased by up
to 40 per cent when version 3.7.4 is run on an Intel-based Mac. Processing RAW
files with Capture One 3.7.4 is now 15 per cent faster on both Intel-based and
PowerPC based Macs. Windows users will also enjoy enhanced capture rate and
RAW processing speed with Capture One 3.7.4. Initial tests show performance
gains of up to 200 per cent in capture rate made possible by an improved high-speed
capture option in the Capture One software. Tests also show a 10 per cent increase
in the processing speed of RAW files.

...

Nikon Inc. has announced version 4.3.1 updater of their Capture RAW (NEF) image
processing software. A complimentary copy of the update is available for current
users of version 4.2.x; if using version 4 that is earlier than 4.2, customers
must first upgrade to Version 4.2 and then install the new updater. All Version
4.x updaters are complimentary for owners of the full Version 4.0 and higher.
Upon installing the Capture 4.3.1 update, the D2X, D2HS, D70S, and D50 digital
SLR cameras, as well as earlier Nikon D-Series digital SLR cameras and their
NEF files will be supported. A highlight for the new updater is its significantly
faster performance for NEF operation. Depending upon the platform (Mac or PC),
CPU, and processes in use, this latest updater for Capture software delivers
increased processing speeds ranging from 11% up to 40%, compared to previous
versions.



A key component of Nikon's Total Imaging System, Capture software enables
photographers to perform comprehensive image processing and editing on NEF (RAW)
files produced by their Nikon digital SLR cameras as well as NEF files generated
from Nikon scanners or converted NEF files that have been generated from JPEG
or TIFF file formats. The NEF file structure has been idealized for operation
within the Nikon Total Imaging System. Key imaging data from the Nikon camera
is embedded within the NEF, and is available to strengthen the image processing
capabilities of Nikon Capture software. This nexus of Camera to NEF to Capture
embodies a key element of the Nikon Total Imaging System's ability to
optimize image quality.



www.nikonusa.com

...

The Tamrac Model 5261 is a rolling photo/computer briefcase that was designed
to go everywhere. It holds a large digital or film SLR, several large lenses
(with shades) and a compact laptop. The unit is carry-on compatible and is constructed
of strong ballistic nylon and rigid plastic. A foam-padded laptop pocket holds
laptops like Apple's 12" PowerBook G4, or other small laptops up
to 12 ½" x 1 ½" x 10". A weather-protected Speed
Pocket on the front flap keeps important items available for quick access while
a telescoping handle stows away in a zippered pocket. Ball-bearing, in-line
skate wheels ensure a smooth, stable ride and a front accessory pocket with
internal paraphernalia pocket organizes CDs, a PDA and a mobile phone. The 5261
can be customized with Tamrac's Modular Accessory System and Strap Accessory
System products.

www.tamrac.com

...