Gorillapod Focus Tripod for Big Cameras

Joby announced a version of its popular Gorillapod tripod that is designed for DSLR and larger video cameras. The Gorillapod Focus is aimed at both pro and amateur photographers. The tripod weighs 1.1 pounds and can support cameras up to 11 pounds.

It ships with a 1/4-20 thread universal camera screw and a 3.8-inch adapter for ball heads. The flexible design allows the tripod to be wrapped around a tree limb and used in other unorthodox situations.

The Focus retails for $149.95 and it measures 11.4" x 3.6" x 3.6". The Focus is the biggest and strongest Gorillapod yet according to Joby. I wonder why they don’t make a taller Gorillapod for use like a normal tripod.

[via Joby]

Photokina Day 2 updates

Just a couple updates... but I'm still too lazy to post each and every one of them... eheh... so instead of that, I'll just post a rundown of what have been happening at Photokina based from yet again, Photography Bay and DPReview.

1) Lexar has upped the speed of its professional CF card line from 133x to 233x. The new cards offer a read/write speed of 35MB per second to accommodate higher megapixel cameras and video capture. The new CF cards are available in 2GB, 4GB and 8GB flavors. Full article at Photography Bay.

2) 32-Gigabyte SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash Cards. The recent release of Canon’s EOS 5D Mark II DSLR camera represents an emerging trend in digital imaging: the convergence of high-megapixel still photograph and High Definition (HD) video capture in a single digital single-reflex lens (DSLR) camera and the need for large-capacity memory cards to support these added capabilities. Full article at Photography Bay and DPReview.

3) Nik Software Announces “Complete Collection” of Award-Winning Digital Photographic Filters. This new product bundle includes all of the latest versions of Nik Software’s products available at a discounted price of $599, which represents a savings of $450 if purchased separately. Full article at Photography Bay.

4) Eye-Fi doubles upload speed. Upload speeds from camera to computer are now twice as fast, and existing owners will be able to avail themselves of this benefit by simply downloading a firmware update. Full article at DPReview.

5) Tokina to add in-lens AF motors for Nikon users. The first optic to benefit will be the popular AT-X Pro SD 12-24mm F4 (IF) DX wideangle (gaining a 'II' suffix in the process), and a motorised version of this lens is being exhibited for the first time at Photokina; more lenses in the lineup are expected to be updated in due course. Full article at DPReview.

Well... that's pretty much I can gather as of now... for complete details of what have been happening for the past two days, you can check them up at Photography Bay or DPReview.

Sungkai di Orchid Garden

Gearing up for raya

Raya is just less than one week to go and BIBD Kiulap Branch have done with their decoration... yeah it's simple... but what can you expect from 50 buck? eheh...

Majlis Bertahlil di rumah... suasana sebelum sungkai...

more will be posted nanti... eheh... :)

Photokina tonnes of updates!

The first day of Photokina ain't finish yet, but there are already tonnes of announcement made by several companies... and since there is a lot of it, so I'm quite lazy to post each and every one of them here and this is also to avoid my blog from being congested by all of the announcement... so instead of that, I'll just give a rundown of what have been announced taken from Photography Bay and DPReview...

1) Leica unveiled the Leica S2, equipped with 37.5MP CCD sensor and sensor that is 56% larger than full frame. Full article at Photography Bay and DPReview.

2) KODAK CCD Image Sensors Power New Cameras for Professional Photography, with the like of the LEICA S2, the HASSELBLAD H3DII-50, and the SINAR Hy6-65 all using the KODAK CCD sensors. Full article at Photography Bay.

3) Pretec Releases 64GB and 100GB CF Cards... yepz... that's a double zero there... Full article at Photography Bay and DPReview.

4) The new Samsung HZ1 is a new 10.2 megapixel point and shoot camera, which features a 2.7″ LCD, a 10x zoom lens at 24mm on the wide end and the ability to capture 720p HD video. Full article at Photography Bay.

5) Lowepro Lens Trekker 600 AW II. The Lens Trekker 600 AW II addresses the needs of the professional who has a significant investment in expensive telephoto lenses. The Lens Trekker AW II features an ergonomic, removable and fully adjustable-torso harness system with contoured mesh straps, plus a padded waist belt for added comfort-especially important when carrying heavy equipment to and from locations. Full article at Photography Bay.

6) Sony at Photokina. This year, Sony has the largest stand at Photokina and will showcase Sony’s latest products from its digital imaging range. This is the first official public showcasing of the new flagship model – the Alpha A900, Sony’s 24.6 megapixel DSLR with full frame sensor - in Europe since its announcement. There will also be a selection of Sony’s new DSLR lenses with seminars held by professional photographers in the professional photo studio. Full article at Photography Bay.

7) Adobe Introduces Photoshop CS4 and Photoshop CS4 Extended. Photoshop CS4 leverages the power of the latest hardware to extend imaging possibilities and offer faster, more flexible ways to accomplish core tasks like image adjustments and masks. Full article at Photography Bay.

8) Sigma announces DP2 large sensor compact. The Sigma Corporation (COO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the new Sigma DP2 compact digital camera featuring a 14 megapixel FOVEON X3 direct image sensor (2,652 × 1,768 × 3 layers) as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR. Full article at Photography Bay and DPReview.

9) Sigma announces SD15 DSLR. Sigma has today announced the SD15 digital SLR as a successor to the SD14, which was originally announced in Photokina 2006. The SD15 uses a 14Mp Foveon X3 sensor, and incorporates a new True II processor for improved image processing speed, operation and performance. This camera also features a larger 3.0” LCD than its predecessor. Full article at Photography Bay and DPReview.

10) Lensbaby Revamps Line. Lensbaby is changing up its line of bendable lenses, according to an announcement at Photokina. The company is also adding an entirely new lens, the Composer. The Composer relies on ball-and-socket twisting with a focusing ring, rather the bellows bend/focus system of older Lensbaby lenses. It also has an Optic Swap system, allowing you to swap the lenses inside the Composer for different options. Full article at Photography Bay.

11) Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG HSM. Sigma has today announced a new HSM version of its popular 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG lens. This large aperture standard zoom is considerably more compact than its predecessor, thanks to a brand new optical design which features 14 elements in 12 groups, including three aspherical, one ELD and two SLD elements. Full article at DPReview.

12) Other announcements from Sigma. Sigma has also announced the introduction of a number of existing products in new mounts. These are the 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM medium telephoto lens for the Four Thirds System, the APO Tele converter 1.4x EX DG and APO Tele converter 2x EX DG for Sony cameras, and the 4.5mm F2.8 EX DC Circular Fisheye HSM and 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM lens for Sony and Pentax. In addition, the EM-140 DG macro flash will also be made available for Sony and Pentax users. Via DPReview.

13) Fuji promises better than F31 performance. Fujifilm says its new Super CCD EXR technology will allow its next generation of premium compacts to produce high-ISO images "superior to the F31fd," while also offering improved dynamic range in other shooting conditions. Full article at DPReview.

There you have it... all the announcement made up to now (17.00 GMT)... You can check for more update by keep on checking at Photography Bay or at DPReview.

Preparation for raya

Raya is just less than 10 days to go, so we decided to start decorating our branch today... decoration haven't finish by the time i have to leave for my school... so i will take more pictures once the decoration is done...

Nikon launches the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G lens

Cologne, Photokina 2008 – Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of a new wide aperture fixed-focal length NIKKOR lens, the 50-mm AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G. This lens has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.4 respectively for a bright viewfinder experience, beautiful background blur with shallow depth of field.

It also incorporates Nikon’s ultra-compact Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ring-type for silent, fast and accurate focusing and enables autofocus in cameras without a built-in motor such as the Nikon D40 and Nikon D60.

"This new fast prime lens redefines the standard lens concept,” said Robert Cristina, Manager Professional Products and NPS at Nikon Europe. He added: “The fast apertures, silent AF and compact dimensions deliver brilliant image quality with new creative options for Nikon digital photographers.”

AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G

The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G lens is a fast, fixed focal-length lens with normal picture angle when used with Nikon’s FX-format D-SLR cameras. Its newly developed optical system delivers high performance, as it efficiently corrects sagittal coma flare and chromatic aberration.

The SWM ring type offers smooth and quiet AF operation. Although all lens groups shift during focusing, the front element and filter mount does not rotate and the barrel length does not change, ideal for close-up photography or when using SB-R200 Wireless Remote Speedlight units.

The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G has two focus modes, M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual focus). With its rounded nine-blade diaphragm, out-of-focus elements appear more natural. When mounted on a DX-format SLR, the picture angle is equivalent to a focal length of about 75mm in 35mm format.

Pentax K-m announced

PENTAX U.K. is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX K-m digital SLR camera (US Version is called Pentax K2000 DSLR). Designed primarily for entry level digital SLR photographers, it offers simplified, user-friendly operation, and an easy-to-maneuver compact, lightweight body.

The PENTAX K-m was developed to enable first-time digital SLR users and family photographers to enjoy high-quality digital SLR photography with ease. The camera features an upgraded version of the PENTAX-original Auto Picture mode, which automatically detects the type of subject or scene, and sets the proper shooting mode for the photographer. It also features a host of advanced features and sophisticated functions — including the innovative in-body Shake Reduction mechanism — to assist the photographer. It also offers a compact, lightweight body, designed by incorporating PENTAX’s advanced downsizing technologies.

Along with the PENTAX K-m, PENTAX will also launch two DA L-series interchangeable zoom lenses: the smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mmF3.5-5.6AL and the smc PENTAX-DA L 50-200mmF4-5.6ED. Designed for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras, these DA L-series lenses are designed to be more compact and lightweight than conventional counterparts, without sacrificing any of the exceptional optical performance common to all PENTAX lenses.*

Main Features

1. Compact, lightweight body for enhanced portability and maneuverability

Despite the incorporation of a large-sized image sensor (23.5mm by 15.7mm), the PENTAX K-m offers a compact, lightweight body to assure remarkable portability and maneuverability. This was made possible by the development of a compact, lightweight and high-rigidity stainless-steel chassis, the downsizing of the Shake Reduction mechanism and circuit boards, the employment of latest high-density packaging technologies assuring most efficient positioning and layout of various parts, and the repositioning of the battery compartment. The camera grip has also been redesigned to assure firm, comfortable hold of the camera body.

2. Simplified operation system for easy camera handling

The PENTAX K-m features a newly designed control system, which positions most of the buttons and levers on the camera’s grip side, making it easier for first-time digital SLR users to operate the camera. What’s more, the functions of each button or lever are instantly displayed on the camera’s LCD monitor with a single press of the help button to facilitate camera operation — especially for those who are unfamiliar with digital SLR cameras.

3. PENTAX-original Shake Reduction mechanism for sharp, blur-free images

The PENTAX K-m comes equipped with the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions — such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark or at night without supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes. This innovative SR mechanism shifts the position of the image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed using magnetic force, while adjusting the shifting speed in proportion to the amount of camera shake detected by a built-in sensor. It offers an outstanding compensation effect — up to the equivalent of approximately four shutter steps. As a result, it does not require special anti-shake lenses, and can be used with almost all existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses.**

4. Comprehensive Dust Removal system with prevention, removal and confirmation devices

The PENTAX K-m features the user-friendly DR (Dust Removal) system to prevent dust from appearing on captured images. Applied to the CCD image sensor surface (or low-pass filter) through the vapor deposition process of a fluorine compound, the PENTAX-original SP (Super Protect) coating effectively removes dust and stains from the surface. In the next step, dust that still remains on the surface will be shaken off when the SR system shifts the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor will fall onto an adhesive sheet positioned at the bottom of the SR unit, eliminating any possibility of it returning to the image sensor surface. This DR system even offers a Dust Alert function, which allows the user to confirm the dust-adhesion status of the CCD in advance.

5. Auto Picture mode for automatic selection of optimum shooting mode

The PENTAX-developed Auto Picture mode is programmed to automatically select the most appropriate shooting mode — from such choices as Portrait, Landscape and Macro — for a given subject. With the PENTAX K-m, this user-friendly mode is further upgraded, with automatic detection of situations requiring the Night Scene Portrait mode. Since all camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, white balance, saturation, contrast and sharpness, are automatically adjusted by the camera for optimum results, the user can concentrate on image composition and shutter opportunity.

6. High-quality image

The PENTAX K-m combines a large, high-performance CCD image sensor (23.5mm by 15.7mm) with the sophisticated PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) as its imaging engine. With its approximately 10.2 effective megapixels, it produces beautiful, fine-detailed images with subtle gradations and delicate texture description. It also features a Custom Image function, which offers a choice of six finishing touches.

7. High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 3.5 frames per second

The PENTAX K-m lets the user keep shooting images at the speed of approximately 3.5 frames per second (in the JPEG recording format), allowing the user to capture a sequence of a fast-moving subject with great ease.

8. High-precision 5-point AF system

The PENTAX K-m incorporates a five-point wide-area AF system (SAFOX VIII with five cross-type sensors) to assure dependable, high-precision autofocusing. Using the five sensors positioned in a cross pattern over the image field (one in the middle, two at the sides, and two at the top and bottom), this system automatically and unfailingly selects the optimum sensor for a given subject. It also allows the user to fix the AF detection point at the middle sensor. Thanks to a thorough review of the AF algorithm, this AF system also offers improved autofocusing speed under poor-lighting conditions, in which conventional AF systems take longer to focus on the subject.

9. Auto sensitivity control up to ISO 3200

The PENTAX K-m’s auto sensitivity control function automatically sets the optimum sensitivity between ISO 100 and ISO 3200, based on such data as the subject’s brightness level and the lens’ focal length. Since this function allows the user to take advantage of faster shutter speeds in poor lighting situations (such as indoor sports events and night time scenes), it helps the photographer to effectively reduce camera shake and subject shake and prevent blurred images.

10. Effective gradation compensation

The PENTAX K-m’s dynamic-range expansion function allows the user to expand a dynamic range (or a range of gradation reproduction) to minimise white-washed areas in the image. On the other hand, its shadow compensation function minimises pitch-black areas lacking details. Combined, they help the user to produce beautiful, rich-gradation images when shooting high-contrast subjects.

11. Large, easy-to-view 2.7-inch LCD monitor

The PENTAX K-m features a large 2.7-inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots on its back panel. This monitor’s wide-view design allows the photographer to check the on-screen image from approximately 170 degrees both vertically and horizontally. It even offers digital zooming of playback images up to 16 times for easy confirmation of the image’s focusing status and details.

12. Bright, clear viewfinder

Thanks to a combination of a lightweight penta-mirror prism, a PENTAX-original finder optics and the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte focusing screen, the PENTAX K-m’s viewfinder delivers a large, bright subject image with an approximately 96-percent field of view and an approximately 0.85-times magnification.

13. Digital filters for unique visual expressions

The PENTAX K-m’s built-in digital filters let the user effortlessly add some creative and artistic touches to recorded images — without the use of a PC. The user can select one of 14 different digital filters — including the new Toy Camera and Retro filters — to create a desired visual effect.

14. Other features

1) 10 Scene modes, switchable with simple icon selection

2) Energy-efficient power supply, recording approximately 1,650 images with four AA-size lithium batteries

3) Status screen, displaying camera settings on the LCD monitor on the camera’s back panel for at-a-glance confirmation

4) Index function, for five different types of display and printing modes

5) Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications

6) Simultaneous recording of RAW- and JPEG-format images

7) Compatibility with SD and SDHC memory cards as external data-recording media

8) In-body development of RAW-format images

9) Compatibility with SDM-equipped lenses for quiet, smooth autofocus operation

10) PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 3 RAW data processing software and PENTAX PHOTO Browser 3 browser software included

Main Features of the smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mmF3.5-5.6AL Lens

1. A compact standard zoom lens with focal lengths from 27.5mm to 84.5mm (in the 35mm format) covering wide-angle to medium-telephoto ranges

2. Latest optical design featuring high-performance aspherical lens element and super-low dispersion glass element for effective compensation of various aberrations

Main Features of the smc PENTAX-DA L 50-200mmF4-5.6ED Lens

1. A super-compact, ultra-lightweight telephoto zoom lens with focal lengths from 76.5mm to 307mm (in the 35mm format)

2. ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical element for effective compensation of chromatic aberrations over the entire zoom range and enhanced image-description performance

Notes:* The smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mmF3.5-5.6AL and smc PENTAX-DA L 50-200mmF4-5.6ED lenses will be marketed only as a part of the PENTAX K-m Lens Kit or PENTAX K-m Double Zoom Kit.** Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: the PENTAX K, KA, KAF, KAF2, and KAF3 mount lenses; screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.

The Ultimate Photo Companion For Travelers

When taking photos on your travels, you don't need to bring your heavy laptop to download your pictures. The Digital Foci Photo Safe II gives you portable on-the-road digital photo storage with 80GB and 160GB hard drives and built-in memory card readers, so you can quickly save your digital photos wherever you go. With Photo Safe II you don't need to worry about losing importantphotos or running out of memory cards while shooting outdoors.

It has a new compact design and additional features, such as support for MS Duo and miniSD, a safer card slot with rubber covers for more protection from dust, and a battery slot that makes it easier to insert/remove the rechargeable battery.

The 80GB goes at the price USD139.00 and USD189.00 for the 160GB model.

[via digitalfoci.com]

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Trailer

Canon EOS 5D Mark II First Look Review by Megawhat.tv

[via megawhat.tv]

Sungkai at Deli Nutreesh

pizza waiting to be eaten...

kesian eh... kan minum pun inda besanang...

look yummy eh?

and in the end... the pizza was left untouched... membazir eh... eheh...

Mysterious rider

Sony A900 with some pretty model

[via scmp.com]

Lowepro Flipside 400 AW

The Flipside 400 AW backpack, designed for a full day of shooting - rain or shin.

Lowepro, creator of innovative carrying solutions for the imaging world, announces the launch of Flipside 400 AW, a high-performance camera backpack designed with a large capacity, premium security, all-day comfort, plus protection from the elements.

Flipside 400 AW features a unique back-entry compartment that provides easy access to gear when setting up - keeping the harness off the ground and clean - plus extra security when on the move. With access to gear placed in the rear of the backpack, roving hands are discouraged from reaching into the bag. With the padded waist belt secured, gear is quickly reached by rotating the entire bag to the front, offering handsfree use and providing a stable work platform while changing batteries, memory cards or setting up for the next shot. To protect expensive gear from the elements, the Flipside 400 AW includes Lowepro’s patented, built-in All Weather CoverTM.

“As consumers continue to add to their imaging portfolio, we understand their desire for protective and comfortable carrying solutions for a larger camera plus multiple accessories,” said Paul Gibbs, Senior Product Marketing Manager, Maxwell. “Flipside 400 AW gives them an ideal option for all the gear they may need on an assignment, for travel or during an allday trek.”

Flipside 400 AW offers expanded capacity with room for a professional DSLR with attached zoom lens and 4-6 additional lenses. Adjustable dividers allow custom organisation inside the main compartment. Other features include: a meshcovered, padded waist belt, back pad and contoured straps added comfort and wicking away moisture; a hideaway tripod holder to secure a tripod or monopod to the backpack; built-in memory card pockets on inside panel; front storage panels and mesh pockets for storing additional gear; attachment loops for SlipLockTM compatible products; and silent zipper pulls.

This newest model follows the success of two smaller-sized companions (Flipside 200 and 300), geared to the amateur who wants the convenience and comfort of a rotating bag. The Flipside 400 AW is ideal for the serious enthusiast or professional photographer who needs peace of mind and a full set of premium features in a sturdy and comfortable camera backpack.