Shutterbug Staff

DxO Labs has made available a public beta version of its soon-to-be released
DxO Optics Pro version 3.0 software. DxO Optics Pro V3.0 automatically enhances
images produced by Digital Single-Lens Reflex (Digital-SLR) cameras and their
lenses with revolutionary optics, noise and lighting corrections packed in an
all-new, easy-to-use feature rich application.



Serious photographers worldwide are invited to download and test-drive DxO Optics
Pro V3.0 from the DxO Labs Web site (http://www.dxo.com) and provide feedback
on all aspects of this landmark application.



DxO Labs' unique, automatic optical corrections are a core part of DxO
Optics Pro V3.0. Based on sophisticated models of camera and lens performance,
DxO Optics Engine together with the associated lens correction modules automatically
removes lens distortion, vignetting, lens softness and lateral chromatic aberration.
Corrections can be accomplished automatically with no user interaction required
even though the corrections required can differ greatly from one image to the
next.



Based on a set of unique algorithms developed by DxO Labs and on precise camera
sensor modelization, the all-new DxO Noise Engine automatically achieves a reduction
of up to two stops in image noise while preserving maximum detail. For example,
an image shot at 1600 ISO and processed by DxO Noise Engine will present a noise
level equivalent to an image shot at 400 ISO.



A brand new DxO technology included in this release, DxO Lighting is a unique
local exposure and dynamic range optimizer. Automatically replicating analog
film techniques known as "dodging and burning", DxO Lighting Engine
brings out shadow detail of digital image files while preserving highlights,
textures, colors and a natural look.

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Singular Focus

This photo was taken one late afternoon in Port Ludlow, Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula. The day was overcast, gloomy, and colorless, until the sun finally peeked through leaden skies. The colors of the kayaks looked particularly bright, in contrast to the gray surroundings. It appeared as though the sun was focusing on the only...

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Incorporating
upgrades based on user feedback and advancement in technologies, Nikon (www.nikondigital.com)
today introduced the D70s 6.1-effective megapixel digital SLR camera. The D70s
builds on the success of the D70, with multiple internal and external refinements
including an improved autofocus system, larger LCD monitor, the addition of
a remote cord port, new graphic user interface, among several other enhancements.
The Nikon D70s has a DX format 6.1-effective megapixel CCD sensor and an improved
autofocus system delivers enhanced performance, especially in Dynamic area AF
and Dynamic area AF with closest subject priority modes. This combined with
Nikon's unique Dynamic Buffer technology (that allows the camera to continuously
take up to 144 pictures at a speed of three pictures per second) makes the D70s
even more responsive and when photographing fast moving subjects.



The D70s incorporates a host of new enhancements and refinements internally
and externally, in addition to all of the advanced features and innovations
found in the D70:

· A refined 5-area autofocus system now has an all-area search priority
to go along with the camera's single area, dynamic area, and close subject
priorities, improving the camera's ability to acquire focus on fast moving
subjects within the frame.

· The camera now boasts a larger 2.0" LCD monitor, making it easier
for users to review images and access menus.

· A new remote port for the MC-DC1 electronic cable release (optional)
allows users to trigger the camera and hold the shutter open via an electronic
cable release

· A built-in Speedlight with a wider angle of coverage, supports 18mm
lenses.

· A new easier-to-read menu design in the D70s uses color-coded menus,
and a larger type-face.

· A higher capacity EN-EL3a battery offers users more pictures per charge.
The EN-EL3a battery comes with a new, smaller MH-18a battery charger. Both the
new battery and charger are included with the D70s.

...