Nature

Nikon D3s at Nikon Super GP 2009

Downhill at Bukit Tibadak, Selayun

Started a bit late... at 5pm+, we were clearly racing to beat time and trying to get most of the remaining light available... and as for me, I also don't have much time to do some trial shots, it will be a one time shots only, so was hoping I could get it right at this one take only... (all shots taken using Canon EOS 7D except for the final few shots...)

by the time they started to make their way down, the light was already against me... so I have to boost up the ISO... the following shot were taken at ISO 3200, standard NR was applied so sorry for the soft looking image... and as feared, I didn't actually nailed it correctly... I was using the shutter speed of 1/800, and at that speed, it kinda kill the motion of the bike... probably at 1/500 or 1/400 might be the right speed... furthermore, at slower shutter, i could lower down the ISO and get a better quality... oh well, maybe next time... :)

the next four shots were taken at ISO 6400 with low NR applied... light was really low at that time, so the AF couldn't track some of the shots... (setting 1/250, f2.8)

the rest of the shots were taken using Canon EOS 5D Mark II...

overall, it was a great outing for me... learned some stuffs and still loving the 7D's AI Servo... will try to get more better shots of the downhill in the future, so will be waiting for the guys to do their stuffs at Berakas Forest Reserve... cheers...

Canon EOS 7D Review by Ronald Lim

Roland Lim have posted his review of the Canon EOS 7D. Quotes from the review, "Overall, I think Canon have succeeded in most areas in giving us a camera that is better than any previous APS-C offering before. The 7D is undeniably the flagship Canon APS-C camera. I have no hesitation in recommending this camera."

You can read the full review HERE.

Canon EOS 7D Review by DPReview

DPReview have posted their review of the Canon EOS 7D. Quotes from the review, "The EOS 7D is an excellent addition to Canon's range of APS-C DSLRs that is, in terms of build quality, speed of operation, ergonomics and image quality, a cut above Canon's previous APS-C flagship, the EOS 50D."

You can read the full review HERE.

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro Lens Review by Digital Picture

Digital Picture have posted their review of the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro Lens. Quotes from the review, "I called the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Lens Canon's "Most fun per dollar lens". While that lens is less expensive, I'm thinking the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro Lens may be the new holder of this title. The improvements in this lens, especially the Hybrid IS, go a long way toward increasing the fun-ness. And the results are definitely fun-inducing. This is a highly recommended lens."

You can read the full review HERE.

A first look at Nikon D3S high ISO image quality, plus the new 70-200mm f/2.8 by Rob Galbraith

Rob Galbraith have posted downloadable pictures taken using the Nikon D3s and also a brief review of the new Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR.

Check it out HERE.

Sony updates firmware for A380, A330 & A230 DSLRs

Sony has released firmware v1.10 for its DSLR-A380, DSLR-A330 and DSLR-A230 digital SLRs. The latest firmware for all three cameras locks exposure on the focused subject, when the metering mode is set to Center Weighted or Spot. The firmware is available for immediate download from Sony's website.

Click HERE to download firmware v1.10 for DSLR-A380, DSLR-A330 and DSLR-A230 (Mac)

Click HERE to download firmware v1.10 for DSLR-A380, DSLR-A330 and DSLR-A230 (Windows)

Canon EOS 7D captured a blue moon

Using Sigma 50-500mm f4-6.3 EX DG HSM @ 500mm, handheld, auto focus...

Despicable Me Trailer

Olympus E-P2 and two Micro Four Thirds zooms

Welcome back to the PEN story and the next chapter: “Back to Black”. This latest retro-chic digital Olympus PEN builds on EISA’s 2009/2010 “Best Camera of the Year”, an icon of style and quality. To enrich photographic potential, the new E-P2 includes a port for an electronic viewfinder or external microphones. Two additional Art Filters combine with the new i-Enhance function for yet more creativity and image enhancement. Two new Micro Four Thirds lenses are due in the first half of 2010: the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 (18-36mm*) super wide-angle zoom and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-150mm F4.0-5.6 (28-300mm*) high-power telephoto zoom lenses. Cloaked in classic black, the hybrid photo and HD movie Olympus PEN boldly brings fun and simplicity back to SLR quality. It’s the next exciting chapter in a photographic story that is set to run and run. Available from January 2010 for £850 including the electronic viewfinder.

The Olympus E-P2 builds on its coveted predecessor’s wealth of high-performance temptations. “With the first PEN, many journalists and experts already told us that we had defined a totally new camera segment. Adding superb new features like an accessory port, viewfinder and new Art Filters has made an already incredible camera even better” explains Mark Thackara, National Marketing Manager at Olympus UK. This retro-cool model is finished in classic black and will become available from January 2010 at a price of £849 including the electronic viewfinder. An optional, matching black leather body jacket will also be on offer.

The Olympus E-P2 – main features:

Small & stylish design

• Extremely small and light-weight Micro Four Thirds System
• Stylish design with black metal finish
• Accessory port to clip-on electronic viewfinder and microphone adapter

SLR image quality

• 12.3 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor
• TruePic V image processor
• Built-in IS with max. 4 EV steps efficiency
• Adapter for all ZUIKO DIGITAL & OM lenses

Easy operation

• Live Control GUI for intuitive handling & real-time views of effects
• Automatic recognition of common scenes possible with i-Auto
• i-Enhance function to boost colours
• Clear skin with e-Portrait
• AF Tracking
• Two dials for easy handling
• Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology
• 20 shooting modes (5 exposure, i-Auto, 14 scene modes)

Creativity & HD Movie

• HD Movie with stereo sound featuring depth of field and Art Filters now available in M-mode
• 8 Art Filters, Multi-Aspect ratios
• Multi Exposure function
• Art Filters can be applied to previously taken RAW images in the camera and with Olympus software
• Enhanced creativity with special lenses e.g. fisheye is available via Four Thirds lens adapter

Additional features of the Olympus E-P2:

• Based on the Micro Four Thirds Standard
• HDMI interface
• Linear PCM sound recording
• Level gauge
• Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interface
• 3fps with sequential shooting (max. 10 in RAW mode)
• ISO 100-6400
• Bracketing functions for white balance and exposure
• Supersonic Wave Filter dust reduction system
• Wide dynamic range in highly lit areas
• Simultaneous writing of RAW and JPEG
• SD memory card slot (SDHC compatible)
• High-speed data writing and lossless RAW compression
• 7.6cm/3.0” HyperCrystal LCD
• AE/AF lock functionality
• Auto gradation adjustment to prevent blown highlights and
• blocked-in shadows
• Remote release possible via the optional remote cable RM-UC1

New accessories:

• M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 super wide-angle zoom lens (first half of 2010)
• M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-150mm F4.0-5.6 high-power telephoto zoom lens (first half of 2010)
• Leather strap in black
• Leather body jacket in black

* 35mm equivalent

Canon issues EOS 7D firmware update

Canon has posted a firmware update for its EOS 7D digital SLR that corrects the previously reported problem where traces of a preceding frame may be visible in images captured in continuous shooting mode. The firmware is available for immediate download from Canon's website.

Click HERE for more information and to download firmware v1.1.0 for Canon EOS 7D.

Canon EOS 7D shoot the moon

Using Sigma 50-500mm f4-6.3 EX DG HSM @ 500mm + Kenko 2.0x TC, focusing done manually using liveview...

Uncropped version

Cropped Version

Brunei Amateur Softball and Baseball Association (BASBA) Silver Jubilee Tournament

Came a bit late so I didn't get to take a lot of pics... anyway, the final was between Philippines vs Indonesia where the Philippines edge Indonesia by 3-2... you can read the news HERE via Brunei Times...

Here are some of the pics taken using Canon EOS 7D...

Using Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8L

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1000, Aperture f5.6

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f5.0

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f5.0

ISO 200, Shutter 1/6400, Aperture f2.8

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f5.0

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f4.5

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f4.5

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f4.5

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f4.5

and for the rest of the pics were taken using Sigma 50-500mm f/4-6.3 EX DG HSM...

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f6.3

ISO 200, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f6.3

ISO 400, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 400, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 400, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 400, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 400, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 400, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 500, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 500, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 500, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 500, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 500, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 500, Shutter 1/1250, Aperture f7.1

ISO 500, Shutter 1/1000, Aperture f7.1

ISO 640, Shutter 1/800, Aperture f8.0

ISO 640, Shutter 1/800, Aperture f8.0

ISO 640, Shutter 1/800, Aperture f8.0

ISO 640, Shutter 1/1000, Aperture f7.1

ISO 800, Shutter 1/1000, Aperture f8.0

ISO 800, Shutter 1/800, Aperture f8.0

How to Train Your Dragon Trailer

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Trailer

Canon EOS 7D AI Servo Test

After owning the 7D for more than a week, I finally get the chance to try out the AI Servo of the 7D... Using the Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8L, I tried to catch some runs by the players of the recent Brunei Softball Tournament...

Setting: Spot AF, centre AF-point, ISO 200, shutter mode - 1/1250 (i forgot to use manual mode)... focusing was concentrated on the wording on his shirt...

and for the pixel-peeper, i also including the 100% crop...

f4.0

f4.0

f4.0

f4.0

f4.0

f4.0

f4.5

f4.5

f4.5

f4.5

f4.5

f4.5

f4.5

f4.5

f5.0

f5.0

f5.6

unfortunately, i came to the tournament a bit late and didn't get a chance to try out the outer AF point (yeah, there weren't a lots of running during the last 2 inning)... furthermore, centre AF-point + good lighting condition, i think even the 50D would also do well (even the 5D Mark II might excel in this condition)... will try to shoot some indoor sport or football (that's soccer to you Americans) during the night to further test the AI Servo of 7D...

anyway, as for this test, I think the 7D rock! love the burst! and the AF tracking so far doesn't disappoint me... so i guess, so far, the 7D does stand up to it reputation... cheers...

Carl Zeiss launches Distagon T* 2/35 lens for Canon

A squirrel nimbly scampers along a moss-covered tree trunk. It has made a promising discovery amongst the fallen leaves of an oak tree. A deer emerges from the half darkness of the woods. A photographer documents the winter preparations of various woodland creatures. This requires a versatile, high-speed, easy to use lens that produces razor-sharp images of the details and the entire scenery.

Optical expert Carl Zeiss has now added an EF bayonet to its proven lens for photographic reporting: the Distagon T* 2/35 ZE. The high-speed, moderate wide-angle Distagon T* 2/35 ZE fits all analog and digital EOS cameras. Its classic 35 mm focal length is particularly well-suited for advertising, travel and nature photography as it captures dynamic perspectives with high depth of focus and few distortions.

With a moderate wide angle of 53 degrees (horizontal), the Distagon T* 2/35 ZE can easily capture wide scenery without forcing photographers to consider perspective effects as design elements as they would have to with shorter focal lengths. The relatively short angle of rotation of the precision focusing mechanism enables fast but precise focusing when required.

For the growing number of photographers and videographers using DSLR’s for movie making, the Distagon T* 2/35 ZE is one of four prime lenses making a core set, joining the Distagon T* 2/28 ZE, Planar T* 1.4/50 ZE and Planar T* 1.4/85 ZE. These lenses are well suited for HD video applications due not only to their exceptional image quality, but for the smooth focus and long focus rotations.

The Distagon T* 2/35 ZE features high image quality for the entire aperture and focusing range. Thanks to its sophisticated optical design in which nine lens elements are perfectly aligned, it permits particularly high imaging performance across the entire image field.

When a tripod is not available, the fast f/2 aperture allows easily handling under low light, making perfect pictures possible even under difficult lighting conditions. Thanks to its special optical design and the Zeiss T* anti-reflection coating, this lens captures bright light sources without artifacts. The Distagon T* 2/35 is also perfect on-the-go thanks to its all-metal and extremely durable precision mechanics for which Carl Zeiss lenses are well-known.

This is ZEISS’ fourth wide-angle lens with an EF bayonet (ZE mount). It follows the recent introduction of the two ultra-wide-angle Distagon T* 3.5/18 ZE and Distagon T* 2.8/21 ZE lenses, as well as the moderate wide-angle Distagon T* 2/28 ZE.

The Distagon T* 2/35 ZE will begin shipping on November 16th for a suggested retail price of $870.

Halloween Night at Gadong

Canon EOS 1D Mark IV - EOS HD Video Capture Capabilities

Organization Structure

Via Forwarded Email

Nintendo DSi LL Unveiled

Nintendo has unveiled the new Nintendo DSi LL.

The new Nintendo DSi LL features a 4.2 inch screen and measures 161x91.4x21.2mm and weighs 314g. (The DSi weighs only 214g).

The Nintendo DSi LL will start shipping on 21st of November for 20,000 Yen (~$220) in Japan. The Nintendo DSi LL comes in very grown-up Wine Red, Dark Brown and Natural White colors.

If and when the DSi LL will be sold outside of Japan is unclear.

Via the Japanese Nintendo DSi LL page.

New Virus Masquerades As Facebook Password Reset

Another new virus is spreading through social networks, this time, via Facebook. This one – known as Bredolab – masks itself as a “Password Reset Confirmation Email,” appears to come from Facebook, and attaches a file that purports to contain a new password.

That file is actually a trojan horse that will download a host of nasty files from the Web and infect your computer with them. Email security firm MX Lab explains further:

“Bredolab is a trojan horse that downloads and executes files from the Internet, such as rogue anti-spyware. To bypass firewalls, it injects its own code into legitimate processes svchost.exe and explorer.exe. Bredolab contains anti-sandbox code (the trojan might quit itself when an external program investigates its actions).”

Thankfully, the fix to this issue is really simple. Now that you know the virus is out there, all you have to do is NOT OPEN ANY ATTACHMENTS sent to you by random people claiming to be Facebook. As a general rule, don't open any attachments sent to you by untrusted sources. It's also worth noting that Facebook doesn't change your password with no prior prompting.

Via: Mashable.com

Hanging out at CoffeeZone Centrepoint to watch the LFC vs Man Utd match

and this is how coffeezone looks like during the final 2 minute of the match...

EOS 450D vs EOS 50D vs EOS 7D vs 5D Mark II - ISO Comparison

yeah i know there are already a lots of site that have done the ISO comparison, but i just want to see one for myself... so I call the SOS Brigade trio to be my model for this test... :)

All image have been reduced to 3600x2400 to reduce the filesize and I wont bother doing a 100% crop coz i'm not a pixel-peeper and i'm pretty sure, most of you have seen a more in-depth analysis elsewhere... but hey, even at 3600x2400 are still able to produce good print... :)

all focusing was done manually via liveview, focusing on Haruhi's eyes (centre figurine)...

first setting... ISO100, flash on, aperture - f8.0...

Canon EOS 450D + Sigma 50mm f1.4

Canon EOS 50D + Sigma 50mm f1.4

Canon EOS 7D + Sigma 50mm f1.4

Canon EOS 5D Mark II + Canon EF 24-70mm @ 70mm

second setting - ISO1600, flash off, shutter - 0.3", aperture - f8.0

Canon EOS 450D

Canon EOS 50D

Canon EOS 7D

Canon EOS 5D Mark II

and just for fun, third setting - ISO6400, flash off, shutter - 1/13, aperture - f8.0

Canon EOS 50D

Canon EOS 7D

Canon EOS 5D Mark II

as you can see, the 7D is a huge improvement in the ISO department compared to 50D and came close to the 5D Mark II... and for some reason, i feel like the 450D performed better than 50D... does anyone else notice this? or there is something wrong with my camera or my experiment/setting?