Archive | May, 2011

Canon 5D Mark II Firmware Update 2.0.9

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Canon released the newest firmware update for 5D Mark II users today aiming to correct some minor issues. Firmware 2.0.9 includes the following fixes.

1. Improves writing/reading speeds when using UDMA 7-compatible CF cards.
2. Fixes a phenomenon where the IS function will not work when custom function C.Fn III-2 is set to [5: IS start] and the lens attached does not have an AF stop button. This is because custom function C.Fn III-2 allows users to assign IS start to the AF stop button on the lens
3. Corrects misspellings in the menu screens displayed in Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Thai languages.

Download the update HERE

Via Canonrumors

1923 Leica 0-series auctioned for 1.89 million

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And you thought that Hasselblad H4D-60 was expensive? The Leica 0-series has just taken the crown for “The World’s Most Expensive Camera,” fetching an outstanding 1.89 million U.S dollars or 1.3 million euros respectively. The auctions description read:

“This is the 7th camera of the Leica 0-series. Only approximately 25 of these cameras were produced to test the market in 1923, 2 years before the commercial introduction of the Leica A. It is the only camera known with “Germany” engraving on the top plate. The factory record indicates delivery to New York for patent applies. This means that this camera is not only one of the major existing rarities, it is also the first Leica being exported. It is the unique chance to buy the most important collectible Leica camera.”

The Associated Press reports the camera “went to a private Asian collector after a nail biting, 20-minute bidding process.” The winning bid can be viewed in the attached video below.

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Via Engadget

 

Redrock Micro Reveals New Universal HDSLR Rig Bundles

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Redrock Micro has released a new way for the HDSLR filmmaker to set-up the appropriate equipment for the particular job on hand. The new universal bundles allow for the mixing and matching of components to build virtually any rig needed. There are a total of seven rigging configurations available making it possible to have many different variations from just one purchase. Click on the image below to view all the details.

Via Planet5D

The Digital Visual Pick of the Week – “ON THE OTHER SIDE”

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It’s that time of week again! Time to indulge in the cinematic and creative projects that earn The Digital Visual’s stamp of approval and are served here for your viewing pleasure. This week’s showcase comes from Rezcreativelabs, a multi-platform advertising agency based out of Montreal whose creativity serves the film, music, and gaming industries. On The Other Side is a story about “a detachment of French soldiers that are pinned down in their trench by a German sniper. The commanding officer is desperate to eliminate the threat, but his methods betray a disturbed psyche.”

On The Other Side was filmed in three days and one night with a production team totaling 30 talented individuals. To see more from Rezcreativelabs, visit their website for all the details on prior and future projects.

Nikon Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against Sigma

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In some startling news, Nikon announced yesterday that proceedings against the Sigma Corporation for “Patent Infringement” will continue despite an attempt to resolve the issue through negotiation. According to the official Nikon website,

“Nikon’s lawsuit seeks an injunction against Sigma’s manufacture and sale of infringing interchangeable lenses with vibration reduction for single lens reflex cameras, along with damages for past infringement. Although Nikon attempted to resolve Sigma’s patent infringement through negotiation, a non-adversarial resolution could not be reached. Consequently, Nikon concluded that filing a lawsuit was the only way it could protect its intellectual property.”

Reuters states that Nikon is seeking compensation of nearly 12.6 billion, or 150 million dollars. Stay tuned for more updates on the situation as it unfolds.

Via NikonRumors

Adobe Lightroom Updated To 3.4.1

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In some quick news, Abobe has released another update to their popular photo editing software, Lightroom, in hopes to correct a “serious bug” that was present in version 3.4. Adobe states that the bug “impacted customers who are saving metadata to JPEG files with a rare characteristic.”

Lightroom users can download version 3.4.1 HERE

Via PhotographyBlog

The Sigma SD1 Priced and Dated – June 9th for $9,700

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The Sigma Corporation announced that their long awaited, flagship DSLR, The SD1, will be available to the masses this June for the hefty price tag of $9,700.00. What exactly do you get for the price? Well how about a 46 megapixel Foveon 23.5×15.7mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor, magnesium alloy body, weather-resistant O-ring sealing, dual ‘TRUE II’ image processing engines and an 11 Point Twin Cross AF system. According to Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America, “the SD1 will carve out a new category in the marketplace by providing high-end photographers with an alternative to very expensive medium-format cameras and digital backs, while offering unrivaled image quality.”

Sigma is hoping to make a lasting impression to medium-format photographers looking for a high-end, rugged, and professional DSLRs. However, will the high asking price keep this model competitive in the medium-format market? Time will tell if the newest entry from Sigma has what it takes to contend.

Via Engadget

Picaspot.com Launches Newest Tool for Photographers on the Hunt

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Ever wonder where some of the photos you see online were taken? Ever wish you could be able find out the exact location of that particular still? Well Picaspot recently launched a website devoted around that very same concept. According to founder Juan Jose Reyes, “information, such as exact location, how to get there, map, parking, fees, subway stops, things to avoid, the best times to get pictures at that location etc, is the main value offered by our website and is what differentiates us from photo websites.” Picaspot is shaping up to what could be a valuable asset to photographers on the hunt for portfolio expansion by shooting new locals. Give it a try for yourself and be sure to share your experiences with us!

Via photographyblog

Zacuto Discounts DSLR Products and Accessories for NPPA Members

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The good folks over at Zacuto have teamed up with the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) to award members with an effective 12% discount on all products at the Zacuto online store. The discount includes HDSLR rigs, accessories, and the wide-range of products offered.

For all the membership information and discount qualifications, visit NPPA.org