FedeoJanuary 7, 2009

CaptureOne Version 4.6 with D3X Support

Digital imaging innovator PhaseOne has updated their flagship software suite, CaptureOne, to Version 4.6. New features of interest to Nikonians include tethered shooting support for a variety of DSLRs, from the D3 to the D40 (Pro Version) as well as new driver support for the top-of-the-line D3X and Phase One's own P 65+ digital back.

For complete details, see Phase One's latest newsletter and download a free 30-Day Trial.

Posted by covey22 at 4:34 PM | Comments | TrackBack

iPhoto '09 Now With Face Sorting and GeoTagging

Apple unveiled iLife '09 at Macworld this week, and iPhoto received a number of feature updates, including the ability to sift images by face (using the Face Detection function), assign names and sort by that attribute. Geotagging has also been integrated, and Nikon Coolpix 6000 users or owners of the add-on Nikon GP-1 GPS receiver can take full advantage of the new capabilities of this categorization. (via MacNN and CNet)

Posted by covey22 at 4:09 PM | Comments | TrackBack

iPhone Gains MyPicturetown App

Nikonians who also own Apple iPhones or iPod Touch PDAs will be pleased to hear that a My Picturetown application is now available on the iTunes store. The free app will let owners

• gain ccess to the My Picturetown online storage site
• create photo albums
• tag and organize images
• upload images taken via the iPhone camera

Posted by covey22 at 3:52 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJanuary 5, 2009

Lexar Card Capacity Graphical Tool

Lexar has a useful graphical tool for showing the capacities of their memory cards, based upon whether you're storing photos, music files or video. Be sure to click on the details link to the left of the tool display, to show the basis by which the the storage is being calculated. If your device or files are much larger than the baseline being used, you can expect less capacity than displayed.

Posted by covey22 at 5:51 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoNovember 19, 2008

Nikon SB-900 Speedlight Firmware Update

Nikon has released update 5.02 for the SB-900 Flagship Speedlight. The fixes include:

• Improved continuous shooting performance that previously resulted in overexposure
• Fixed mode persistence problems with TTL-A use on CLS/iTTL equipped bodies

Nikon D3 and D300 owners need to make note of the caveats that they should have the latest firmware loaded on their camera bodies before using an SB-900 equipped with this version update. The Speedlight firmware is available for Mac and Windows (NikonUSA Support Site).

Posted by covey22 at 6:32 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoNovember 5, 2008

Apple Camera Raw 2.3 Now Supports Latest Nikons

Apple's latest update to their Digital Camera Raw decoders now supports the latest Nikon models, including the D90 digital SLR and the Coolpix 6000 flagship compact. DCR 2.3 is available for Aperture 2 and iPhoto 2008.

Posted by covey22 at 3:22 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoOctober 15, 2008

Oxford Eye's ToneUp Studio 3 and TetherPro

For Digital SLR shooters who are on the cutting edge of configuration settings to maximize their image quality, ToneUp is a familiar name. Todd Gibbs' software tool gained popularity early on by overcoming Nikon Capture limitations such as the ability to swap built-in curves between Nikon DSLR models. Nikonians is pleased to announce that Todd is offering a significant fifty (50) percent discount on all products to our Silver, Gold and Platinum members, including his latest iteration of the custom curve program - ToneUp Studio 3 and his newest addition - the TetherPro tethered shooting utility.

Posted by covey22 at 3:03 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoSeptember 25, 2008

Nikon and HP Create Fine-Art Repro System

Nikon and Hewlett-Packard have joined forces to create a fine-art reproduction system featuring the full-frame sensor D3 digital SLR, StudioPrint RIP software and the DesignJet Z3200 photo printer. The venture aims to put a capture-to-print system for that is superior in workflow and efficiency to large-format DFA offerings. (via WebWire)

Posted by covey22 at 7:53 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoSeptember 17, 2008

Nikon Updates Software Suites for D90, Coolpix P6000

Nikon has updated both Capture Control Pro and Capture NX2 with support for the D90's RAW images. Also receiving a refresh is Nikon Transfer, with both D90 and P6000 support. All versions can be downloaded in full and updater binaries. (Nikon USA site)

Posted by covey22 at 8:39 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoAugust 1, 2008

Nikon and Microsoft in Contest Brouhaha

Nikon has apparently withdrawn sponsor support for Microsoft's Iconic Britain photo contest due to the software manufacturer's lack of diligence in supporting copyrights of the submitted images.

Led by the website Pro-Imaging, a notice was sent to Microsoft to change the terms and conditions of the submissions sent into the contest. Originally, the images would be drawn from the archives of Microsoft's Live Search - participants could pick any images from that collection, regardless of whether they were under third-party copyrights or not. According to Pro-Imaging, "...implication is that Microsoft have not excercised any care over the Live Search feature with regard to whether the images are under third party copyright or not. By allowing entrants to select such images and post them on the Microsoft website they are enabling the entrants to infringe the copyright of the image creators." (spelling errors are accurate - this was taken verbatim from the web-site being quoted).

The lack of immediate response from the Seattle software maker and the resulting negative feedback compelled Nikon to withdraw from the contest while continuing to honor provision of the prizes being offered.Microsoft eventually relented and agreed to take steps necessary to securing proper rights for each and every image submitted. (via Pro-Imaging)

Posted by covey22 at 8:49 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJuly 31, 2008

Nikon Sets Up Shop in Moscow

Good news for our members in the Russian Federation - Nikon has established a sales unit in Moscow aimed at strengthening digital imaging sales. Nikon (Russia) LLC was capitalized at just under USD2M and has a staff of thirty employees. (via Japan Corporate News)

Posted by covey22 at 3:53 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJuly 28, 2008

Nikon Updates Codec for D700

Nikon has updated the Windows codec (coder/decoder) to include D700 generated files. Codecs allow native viewing of NEF files without having to use any programs such as ViewNX or CaptureNX.

Posted by covey22 at 2:34 PM

FedeoJuly 17, 2008

Nikon Optional Picture Control Sets Updated

For our members who were not previously aware - Nikon has made Picture Control sets available for free download since the inception of the new feature in View NX. The latest update is a set of Landscape controls.

Posted by covey22 at 4:25 PM

FedeoJune 20, 2008

Capture NX2 Now Available for Sale

Capture NX2, the latest iteration of Nikon's premier RAW editing software, is now available for sale in boxed copy and download (registration key) versions. Previously, only trial versions were available via Nikon's Digital Knowledge Base portal.

Shutterbugs can choose from full NX2 versions and upgrades from Capture NX1.x. Currently, the Nikon Mall (USA) shows both boxed versions out of stock while download key models are available. Authorized retailers will likely show availability very soon.

Posted by covey22 at 5:59 PM

FedeoJune 19, 2008

Geotagging On the Cheap

Want to geotag your photos but your camera doesn't have the ability? A new software comparison system may be able to help.

The IM2GPS software program takes your photos and compares them to a database of images from known locations, namely the popular photo-sharing site Flickr. By looking at the characteristics of the photo, it has a "30 times better than chance" of determining where your photo was taken. Shutterbugs should not expect pinpoint accuracy - the variance could be as far out as a couple of hundred miles, but it is another step down the road of more sophisticated image analysis.

Posted by covey22 at 10:10 PM

FedeoMay 27, 2008

Inside Nikon's Scene Recognition System

Nikonians wishing to know more about the ground-breaking Scene Recognition System (SRS), first introduced in the Nikon D3 and D300 Digital SLRs, will want to read this interview with designer Hiroshi Takeuchi.

"Until now, we have been improving AE, AF, and AWB technologies independently, but when these technologies matured, there was no technology capable of linking them. The Scene Recognition System is thus a core technology that links the superior aspects of these three technologies.

Posted by covey22 at 7:29 PM

FedeoMay 8, 2008

Viveza for Adobe Photoshop and Aperture

Imagine being able to control color and brightness selectively in Adobe Photoshop and Apple Aperture, without having to use masking techniques. With Nik Software's Viveza, you don't have to imagine any longer. Utilizing Nik's popular U-Point control technology, you can select any point within a photo an manipulate an object's color, contrast or brightness in a fraction of the time it would take using more traditional techniques. Viveza is available now for Windows or Macintosh platforms.

Posted by covey22 at 9:28 PM

FedeoApril 18, 2008

Nikon Confirms new D3 Firmware V1.10 Corrupted

Nikon USA confirms that the recent D3 Firmware v1.10 release is corrupting photos.

The details of the corruption circumstances are as follows (direct from Nikon's Digital Knowledgebase):

On April 15, 2008, an announcement was made on the Nikon website that the Ver. 1.10 firmware update for the D3 digital-SLR camera was available for download. However, it has been confirmed that when the following settings are applied with the updated firmware, image data may, in some rare cases, be corrupted. Therefore, we have terminated the firmware update download. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this issue may have caused.

* Release mode: Continuous high speed (CH), or Continuous low speed (CL) with Custom Setting d2 set to 9 fps
* Image area: FX format (36x24) or 5:4 (30x24)
* Image quality: NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW) + JPEG fine/normal/basic
* NEF (RAW) recording>NEF (RAW) bit depth: 14-bit

*The issue related to NEF (RAW) recording>NEF (RAW) bit depth may occur regardless of the option selected for NEF (RAW) recording>Type (Lossless compressed, Compressed, or Uncompressed).

If you have downloaded the D3 Ver. 1.10 firmware update but have not yet updated the camera’s firmware, please do NOT perform the update. If you have already updated the D3 firmware, please do not shoot with the combination of settings indicated above. This issue does not occur with other combinations of camera settings (for example, when NEF (RAW) bit depth is set to 12-bit, or when shooting in continuous low speed (CL) release mode with Custom Setting d2 set to 8 fps or lower.)

The download version of the revised firmware update is expected to be available in late April. For more information regarding this matter, please contact Nikon Customer Support.

Again, we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this issue may have caused. We hope that you will continue to choose Nikon for your photography needs.

Posted by covey22 at 6:31 PM

FedeoApril 15, 2008

RAW 4.4.1 Updated for Adobe Products

Adobe updates their RAW converter for the latest round of Digital SLRs including the Nikon D60. Matching updates to the Lightroom suite and the DNG converter have also been posted.

Posted by covey22 at 5:21 PM

FedeoApril 14, 2008

Nikon Jazzes Up My Picturetown Service

Nikon has announced a series of enhancements to My Picturetown, the proprietary photo-sharing site that accompanied the D40 marketing campaign.

Use of the service is free with a 2GB storage limit; more space can be purchased by upgrading to a subscription account. The enhancements include the ability to upload NEF files that can be viewed online as JPEGS - an industry first. Additional search engine options such as calendar based or date-based inquiries, expanded music backgrounds for slideshows, links to the Flickr online system and Eye-Fi compatibility round out the list. These new features are due in May of this year.

Posted by covey22 at 3:27 PM

FedeoMarch 28, 2008

FotoNation on The Wall Street Journal

The little company that made smile and other face attribute-detection in cameras a reality has hit the big-time. Today's electronic edition of the Wall Street Journal focuses on FotoNation and it's founder Eran Steinberg.

Posted by covey22 at 7:54 PM

FedeoMarch 27, 2008

Time-Saving Image Edit Software shows muscle

Our recent News Blog entry announcing the latest version of Arcadia's PhotoPerfect 2.90 now includes a follow-up from our editing and publishing staff.

The free download version of this Windows-based program provides plenty of room to explore the convenient features that simplify the editing process, and for less than $60 USD for the licensed version it is well worth checking out. Comparison work on a random selection of images was accomplished with PhotoPerfect and Adobe Photoshop, both opened on a Vista OS PC. The two image editors did not conflict with each other. A fast method for exploring some of the key features included in PhotoPerfect is to open Arcadia's Image Editing Examples page and follow along.

At first glance the operating controls are so numerous that first-timers to the world of digital editing may be overwhelmed, but with the help of simple online tutorials, the buttons and functions are easy to understand.

You will find built-in batch processing functions for a variety of uses, including the handy eBay processor, which took this image of a GPS unit and within seconds condensed it to a handy eBay-compatible size.

Likewise, you will find a simple email function that quickly takes a pile of your favorite photos and compresses them to the proper size (screen width and file size) for emailing to family and friends.

It even opens your email program and attaches the files.

These are just two of the handy easy-step functions.

There are plenty more to choose from the minute you open the program.

The fun part comes when you start exploring the other (some optional) features also available.

PhotoPerfect incorporates plug-ins originating from image editing software experts across the globe, each with unique professional level methods for adjusting your image.

Different images benefit most from different plug-ins, and you don't have to understand the complex formulas that took years to research and design.

A few simple clicks of your mouse give you instant access to different versions of the original, allowing you to first choose a pre-set version, and then fine-tune that version. Once again, only a few clicks gets the job done. For a preview, cost options and sample galleries and testimonials make sure you check the Arcadia Extensions/Add-ons page.

Our conclusion: PhotoPerfect is a stable and surprisingly powerful Windows based image editor with user friendliness obviously a high priority.

Posted by flashdeadline at 9:30 AM

FedeoMarch 3, 2008

DxO Optics with Support for 10 Nikkor AF Lenses

DxO Labs has released ten new modules for optimizing lenses with the Nikon D3 and D300 digital SLRs. This version of DxO Optics is currently only available in Windows.

Nikon D3 - AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED
Nikon D3 - AF-S Zoom-Nikkor 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED
Nikon D3 - AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D
Nikon D300 - AF-S Nikkor 14-24mm f/2.8G ED
Nikon D300 - AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED
Nikon D300 - AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED
Nikon D300 - AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED
Nikon D300 - AF Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm f/4-5.6D ED
Nikon D300 - Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM
Nikon D300 - AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED

Posted by covey22 at 4:04 PM

FedeoFebruary 29, 2008

Nikon Updates View NX and Transfer Programs

Nikon has updated the View NX preview utility to version 1.03 and Transfer photo-download program to version 1.02. Both versions are available for the Macintosh and Windows platforms.

Posted by covey22 at 3:57 PM

FedeoFebruary 21, 2008

Nikon Capture NX and Control Pro Updates

Nikon has updated Capture NX and Camera Control Pro to support the D60 and the new Tilt-Shift (TS) lenses as well as a slew of other changes. The updates are available for both Macintosh and Windows.

Posted by covey22 at 5:47 PM

Photoshop Port To Linux Funded by Google

The most requested application port to Linux is, not surprisingly, Adobe Photoshop and Google is happily funding the effort.

Posted by covey22 at 5:38 PM

FedeoFebruary 15, 2008

MacWorld Weighs In on Aperture 2.0

With the recent release of Aperture 2.0 this week, MacWorld's Editorial weighs in on the implications of this long-overdue update from Apple.

Posted by covey22 at 4:49 PM

FedeoFebruary 14, 2008

Cocoon Creations Releases SOFTalk 2000 Code

Our film-loving members have a great Valentine's Day gift from Cocoon Creations.

The makers of the HARTALK cable and other accessories allowing Nikon film cameras to communicate with computers and triggering devices are giving away their popular SOFTalk 2000 software for free to the public.

Posted by covey22 at 3:15 PM

FedeoFebruary 13, 2008

DxO Labs Releases Support for Nikon D3, D300

DxO Labs has released an update that supports the Nikon D3 and D300 digital SLRs, as well as modules for the AF Nikkor 50mm/f1.4 and the new AFS 24-70mm/f2.8 and the AFS 14-24mm/f2.8.

Posted by covey22 at 10:41 PM

FedeoFebruary 12, 2008

Mac OS X 10.5.2 Adds D3 and D300 Support

Apple has released the 10.5.2 update to their Mac Operating System. RAW support for images from the Nikon D3 and D300 are now supported.

Posted by covey22 at 4:17 PM

FedeoJanuary 7, 2008

Outlook Reminds You To Bring Your Camera

For photographers who depend on Outlook for event management and calendaring, Microsoft has built a very useful plug-in that allows you to specify what equipment you need to bring when creating an appointment.

The Pro Photo Shoot plug-in allows you to create an equipment pool that predefines what you have in your inventory. This is great for on-the-fly event management; while you're on the phone with a client arranging a photo shoot, you can start to check off what you need to bring - camera, lights, background etc. The pool also lets you plug in information such as serial numbers and purchase dates - great for creating insurance coverage lists.

Posted by covey22 at 4:55 PM

CNN Money Rates Picture Scanning Services

CNN's Money Magazine rated six of the more popular print and negative scanning services available and put ScanCafe on the top of the list. This is a great quick reference guide for shutterbugs who have been putting off the digital conversion of their albums and scrapbooks.

Posted by covey22 at 4:40 PM

FedeoDecember 14, 2007

Nikon ViewNX Updated to Version 1.03

Nikon has released another update to the ViewNX utility (Windows/Mac); the changes include bug fixes to Coolpix Movie and still photo integration, IPTC compatibilities with other editing programs and light-falloff corrections with the Nikon D3 and 70-200VR and 80-200 AF-S telephoto zooms.

Posted by covey22 at 5:17 PM

FedeoDecember 10, 2007

Snippets from Newsline International 10-Dec-2007

Some interesting snippets from today's Newsline International:

CompUSA, a national chain of technology stores across the US, will shutter an undisclosed number of stores after the holidays. The downsizing follows the recent sale of the conglomerate to the Gordon Brothers group.

Fujifilm aficionados will be pleased to hear about the revival of Velvia 50 in 35mm format, at least in Japan. Availability is expected after 16-December.

Posted by covey22 at 8:40 PM

FedeoDecember 6, 2007

Adobe Camera RAW 4.3.1 Is Released

The latest Adobe Camera Raw release fixes a problem where compressed .NEF files from the D100 would not properly open. (Windows and Mac)

Posted by covey22 at 5:36 PM

FedeoDecember 4, 2007

Thom Hogan's Guide to Fujifilm S5 Pro

Thom Hogan's Guide to the Fujifilm S5 Pro digital SLR is now available for orders.

Posted by covey22 at 4:09 PM

Nikon Capture Control Pro 2.0 Now Available

Nikon Camera Control Pro 2.0 is now available for download in both upgrade and full versions. Registration Keys are for sale through the Nikon Mall. This latest version adds support for the recently released D3 and D300 Digital SLRs.

Posted by covey22 at 4:01 PM

FedeoNovember 30, 2007

Nik Software Color Efex 3.0 Now Available

Nik Software has made their Color Efex 3.0 post-processing suite available in trial download and upgrade versions. The highly-anticipated set of filters and processing plug-ins was first seen at PDN Expo in New York City earlier this year.

Posted by covey22 at 5:34 PM

FedeoNovember 28, 2007

D2X Mode Picture Controls for Nikon D3/D300

For owners of the D300 and the anticipated D3 cameras, Nikon has released emulation mode software using the new Picture Control function first revealed in the View NX software. This program will allow the D3 (Windows or Mac) and the D300 (Windows or Mac) to emulate current D2X Color Reproduction in all three hardware color spaces. This will be useful for former D2X photographers who have priority shooting needs and cannot immediately recalibrate their color workflow from their legacy cameras.

Editor's note - this program does not replace the need to recalibrate your color workflow; it should be seen as an expedient tool for professionals and other photographers whose shooting requirements cannot allow them to immediately recalibrate.

Posted by covey22 at 6:08 PM

Nikon Updates Vista Codecs for D3/D300

Nikon has released RAW Codec 1.1.0 which gives the Vista operating system the ability to read D300 and D3 RAW images.

Posted by covey22 at 3:23 PM

FedeoNovember 23, 2007

Nikon D300 and Capture NX 1.3 Hit Store Shelves

Nikonians have been reporting the arrival of the much anticipated D300 in both pre-orders and store shelves. Capture NX 1.3 has also been released, so it should be a very festive time for all. And if you have D300 questions, be sure to join our forum to get answers!

Posted by covey22 at 4:23 PM

FedeoNovember 16, 2007

Lightroom 1.3 and Camera Raw 4.3 with D3/D300 Support

Adobe has posted Camera Raw 4.3 and Lightroom 1.3 updates.

These upgrades will be of interest to Nikonians since they contain official support for the D3 and D300 digital SLRs due to be released at month's end. For developers, the Lightroom update also includes an SDK to allow communication of photo exports to third-party tools.

Posted by covey22 at 4:30 PM

FedeoOctober 30, 2007

Capture NX 1.3 With Each D3/D300 Purchase

Entries by Nikon USA personnel on a popular mailing list indicate that a limited time offer for a full version of Capture NX will accompany each D3 and D300 Digital SLR. In essence, each body will be bundled with an activation code for the proprietary RAW processing software. This has been one of the major complaints about Nikon in the past, as competitors (including Canon) have bundled their converters at no extra cost.

Posted by covey22 at 2:04 PM

FedeoOctober 23, 2007

Adobe Camera Raw Still Tops for Shutterbugs

Our colleagues at Imaging-Resource report on a recent InfoTrends survey showing Adobe Camera Raw is the most preferred way to digitally post-process. By contrast, Nikon Capture NX came in a distant fourth and fifth on Windows and Macintosh systems respectively.

Posted by covey22 at 4:26 PM

FedeoOctober 22, 2007

Nik Software Announces Color Efex Pro 3.0

At Photo Plus Expo in NYC this past weekend, Nik Software announced the 3.0 upgrade of Color Efex Pro; their award-winning collection of photographic filters. The main draw is the appearance of the proven U-Point technology pioneered in DFine and Nikon's Capture NX. The add-on will be available for both Photoshop and Photoshop Elements and will continue to be sold in tiered Complete, Select and Standard Editions.

Posted by covey22 at 4:16 PM

FedeoSeptember 30, 2007

DxO raises the noise reduction bar

DxO Optics Pro v5 has been unveiled by the DXO Labs headquarters in France. This latest version of the DXO automatic image quality enhancement software application will deliver digital noise reduction at a "new standard" according to the announcement made today.

DxO Optics Pro v5 is planned to be available at the end of October, and purchasers of DxO Optics Pro v4.5 on or after August 1st, 2007 are eligible for a free upgrade.
The new version also features dust and blemish removal, an improved user interface, increased speed and expanded camera support.

Details on the newest version of Optics Pro are provided in the following DxO Labs News Release:

Paris, France, October 1st, 2007 --DxO Labs today announced DxO Optics Pro v5, the latest version of its award-winning flagship software application for automatic image quality enhancement for Digital SLR camera users. Due to be released later in the fall, DxO Optics Pro v5 sets a new standard for image quality with its new RAW conversion engine.

A breakthrough in demosaicing; the 'holy grail' of RAW conversion
DxO Optics Pro v5's RAW conversion engine includes a completely new demosaicing algorithm which produces images with much more detail and fewer artifacts, setting a new standard in image quality. Demosaicing is the crucial step of RAW conversion during which the camera's image sensor pattern is reconstructed as a visible image for the human eye. Inherently, demosaicing involves trade-offs between image sharpness, details, noise, processing time and conversion artifacts. The quality of demosaicing determines the amount of detail and artifacts in the final image. These artifacts, particularly visible and unsightly, are compounded at high ISO settings and are in large part responsible for what is deemed the unnatural look of digital images.

"DxO Labs' approach to demosaicing turned a number of classical solutions on their head: instead of only considering pixels with respect to their direct neighbors, DxO's new RAW Engine uses a 'non local' approach looking much further than is usual from each pixel in the image in order to reconstruct detail. This significantly reduces demosaicing artifacts," said Frédéric Guichard, Chief Scientist at DxO Labs.

Performing noise removal directly on the RAW data for best lowlight performance
The other key characteristic of DxO Optics Pro's new RAW Engine is that instead of applying noise reduction techniques after demosaicing, a newly-developed noise reduction is performed upfront, before noise has a chance to be amplified by the RAW conversion process and absorb important fine details.
Combined with other proprietary techniques, DxO Optics Pro v5's new RAW Engine produces both the most detailed and most natural looking images yet - its very fine and homogenous grain translating into subtle shades and textures. DxO Optics Pro v5's new RAW conversion engine has been fine-tuned and optimized with the rest of the software's automated image enhancement features (optical corrections, color rendering, exposure optimization, highlight recovery, etc.) to produce best-in class results.

Dust/Blemish Removal now available in version 5
DxO Optics Pro v5 now incorporates a new tool to remove dust and blemishes from any digital image. Once dust and blemishes have been marked by the user, DxO Optics Pro v5 can automatically process any number of images with this particular dust/blemish template.

A revamped User Interface
Based on extensive research and communications with photographers, DxO Optics Pro's user interface has been reorganized to improve workflow and ease of use. In particular, tools are now organized into four main sections that match the photographer's approach: Light, Color, Geometry, Details. Users of DxO Optics Pro v5 can also customize their workspace to their particular way of working or choose to keep the tool organization of the previous version. DxO Optics Pro's powerful project and preset functions have also been overhauled for increased ease of use and functionality.

Increased speed and camera support
Benefiting from an entire rewrite using Microsoft's .NET and Apple's ObjC-Cocoa technologies, DxO Optics Pro v5 is up to four times faster than version 4.0. This is due in particular to the use of GPU processing; where the power of dedicated video card chips is used to accelerate an application.

DxO Optics Pro v5 will also support the latest Canon and Nikon Digital SLR camera bodies. Support for the Canon 40D, Canon 1Ds MKIII, Nikon D300 and Nikon D3 will be included in DxO Optics Pro v5 over the next few months following the availability of these cameras.

Pricing and availability (Europe)
DxO Optics Pro v5 for Windows is planned to be available at the end of October 2007. DxO Optics Pro v5 for Macintosh is planned to be available approximately one month after the Windows version.
DxO Optics Pro v5 will be available in Standard and Elite versions at pricing unchanged from version 4.5:
DxO Optics Pro v5 Standard: £99
DxO Optics Pro v5 Elite: £199
(Prices include 17.5% VAT)
All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro v4.5 on or after August 1st, 2007 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 5. For customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro before August 1st, 2007, the pricing of upgrades is as follows:
DxO Optics Pro Standard (any version) to DxO Optics Pro v5 Standard: £59
DxO Optics Pro Elite (any version) to DxO Optics Pro v5 Elite: £75
(Prices include 17.5% VAT)

Pricing and availability (USA)
DxO Optics Pro v5 will be available in Standard and Elite versions at pricing unchanged from version 4.5:
DxO Optics Pro v5 Standard: $169
DxO Optics Pro v5 Elite: $299
(All prices are excluding sales taxes)
All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro v4.5 on or after August 1st, 2007 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 5. For customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro before August 1st, 2007, the pricing of upgrades is as follows:
DxO Optics Pro Standard (any version) to DxO Optics Pro v5 Standard: $95
DxO Optics Pro Elite (any version) to DxO Optics Pro v5 Elite: $125

Operating System Requirements
Windows:
Intel® Pentium® 4 processor or AMD® equivalent (Pentium® Dual Core or higher or equivalent recommended)
Microsoft® Windows XP Service Pack 2 or Windows VISTA
Macintosh:
Universal Binary (G4, G5 or Intel)
Mac OS X.4 or X.5 when available
120 MB of available disk space
DxO Optics Pro Standard Edition: 1 GB RAM
DxO Optics Pro Elite Edition: 2GB RAM

About DxO Labs
DxO Labs offers products and solutions ensuring excellence in digital imaging. DxO Labs develops and licenses intellectual property serving the entire digital imaging chain: licensing of optics and silicon architectures for embedded still and video image processing; image quality evaluation and measurement tools and methodologies; image quality enhancement software for consumers. The company's key customers and partners include:
Consumer electronics manufacturers such as digital camera vendors and cameraphones vendors;
Imaging components suppliers: camera module manufacturers, sensor vendors, and processor vendors;
Demanding photographers, as well as photography journalists and imaging experts.
DxO Labs' product portfolio is steadily finding a place at the heart of advanced consumer electronics and world-class industry imaging systems where "Image Science by DxO" becomes a reference for quality.
For more information or a list of distributors and resellers, visit DxO Labs online at www.dxo.com.

Posted by flashdeadline at 9:41 PM

FedeoSeptember 27, 2007

Color Efex 2.0 for Capture NX Upgrade Released

Nik Software has released the long-awaited FREE Upgrader for Color Efex 2.0 for Nikon Capture NX.

Please note - this is the Upgrade ONLY - you must own a previous version of Color Efex 2.0 for Capture 4.x in order to use this program. This is NOT a trial version. The full version of Color Efex 2.0 for Capture NX is expected to be made available very soon.

Posted by covey22 at 6:44 PM

Adobe Photoshop Elements 6 Released

Adobe has upgraded their popular consumer editing software package yet again. Photoshop Elements 6 has some very appealing new tools such as PhotoMerge, which simplifies combining several pictures to get the best features located in each frame onto a single photo, and a much improved Quick Selection tool that promises to ease the click burden of selecting a complex area in a frame.

Posted by covey22 at 12:07 AM

FedeoSeptember 14, 2007

Adobe Lightroom 1.2 Update

Adobe has updated their Lightroom workflow software to Version 1.2 Changes include improvements to cataloging functionality and error fixes to the interface and program behavior. The update is available for Windows and Macintosh.

Posted by covey22 at 3:09 PM

FedeoSeptember 11, 2007

Nikon View NX, Transfer and Picture Project Export Released

Nikon has released the much-anticipated View NX and some additional new utilities.

Nikon View NX replaces the aging Nikon View 6 series, and includes an expanded set of editing controls using the new Picture Control system which makes it's debut in the upcoming the Nikon D3 and Nikon D300 digital SLRs. Download View NX for the PC or Mac.

Transfer was previously part of Nikon View 6, but has been separated into a standalone application. The utility now can copy files from the camera to multiple locations simultaneously and supports the Label and Rating system introduced in Capture NX. Download Transfer for the PC or Mac.

Finally, in a sign that PictureProject's demise may be near, the PictureProject Export utility allows you to transfer your photo and album information to View NX or selected image management capabilities in Windows or MacOS. Download PictureProject Export Utility for the PC or Mac.

Posted by covey22 at 5:33 PM

FedeoSeptember 10, 2007

Nikon Knowledgebase Watch: 10-September-2007

As always, Nikonians is on the lookout for new Nikon Knowledgebase articles of interest to our members. This week's selection includes:

*Updated shutter release count information (including scenarios where they could be reset!)

*Defect Pixel information and visual samples

*Updated List of Nikon Capture How-To articles (up to 32 now!)

*How To Load, Save and Edit IPTC Information on a Nikon DSLR.

*Updated Shipping Instructions for Warranty and Estimate repairs to Nikon USA's new El Segundo facility in California

Posted by covey22 at 5:24 PM

FedeoSeptember 7, 2007

Image Doctor Comments on Nikon View NX

Image Doctor and Nikonian Rick Walker comments on the upcoming features of Nikon View NX, the anticipated upgrade to the long-in-the-tooth Nikon Viewer utility. The updated program will have many features that tie into the latest digital SLR technology such as the Nikon D300 and the Nikon D3 cameras. The Image Doctors have been beta-testing many of Nikon's upcoming applications, so be sure to check into our forums and keep up to date with the latest developments.

Posted by covey22 at 9:15 PM

FedeoAugust 27, 2007

Nikon Camera Control Pro 2 Announced

Nikon has announced an update to Camera Control Pro. The newest version will have enhancements that complement the upcoming D3 and D300, such as support of the Live View LCD mode and Picture Control settings.

Posted by covey22 at 7:34 PM

FedeoAugust 8, 2007

Edit Your Way To Perfect Photos

If this group of researchers can perfect it, the days of layering, cloning and erasing imperfections such as unwanted subjects in your image may be numbered.

Posted by covey22 at 4:45 PM

FedeoAugust 7, 2007

Capture NX 1.2 Full Updater Released

A long-awaited point update for Capture NX has been released for Macintosh and Windows. The upgrade details include speed improvements and a variety of fixes to the interface.

Update 1: See the insightful comments by Jason O'Dell regarding the changes in this release.

Posted by covey22 at 5:30 PM

FedeoJuly 11, 2007

DxO Labs Optics Pro 4.5

DxO Labs has released version 4.5 upgrade to their popular Optics Pro correction and enhancement program. New features include:

* support for Nikon D40X and Canon 1D Mark III
* support for newer lenses such as the Tokina 10-17 DX fisheye
* Integration with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
* The long-awaited Flickr Export plug-in
* Auto-crop automatic tool
* Free Presets by pro and expert photographers
* Optimization based on available RAM and utilization of video cards equipped with GPUs

As always, it's a free upgrade for all DxO Optics Pro v4.x users.

Posted by covey22 at 4:26 PM

FedeoJuly 3, 2007

Caution on Lightroom Update

Join the discussion in our Postprocessing Forum regarding the latest bugs in the Lightroom 1.1 update.

Now after talking with Adobe this morning, they clearly stated that they are aware of a catalog corruption issue, and that this issue is more severe with customers who have started using LR from a beta version. That also stated that because getting a corrupted catalog during an update was not repeatable, that (the directors) chose to NOT release this information!

Posted by covey22 at 8:19 PM

FedeoJune 27, 2007

Adobe Lightroom 1.1 Now Available

Adobe's Lightroom workflow version has been updated to 1.1; a free upgrade for current 1.0 owners. The latest version has added functionality, support for 13 digital camera models including Nikon, Canon, Olympus and Phase One, improved noise reduction and support for Windows Vista.

Posted by covey22 at 5:11 AM

FedeoMay 31, 2007

Capture NX Tutorials Updated

Nikon has updated the Capture NX tutorials on their Digital Knowledgebase to include additional content on printing and color profile management.

The tutorials can be downloaded as Adobe Acrobat files. The new content includes how to make contact sheets, soft proofs, borderless prints, auto levels contrast, and color profile batch conversion.

Posted by covey22 at 4:18 PM

FedeoMay 30, 2007

SilverFast 6.5.0r6 With Auto IT8 Calibration

For our members using SilverFast scanning software, version 6.5.0r6 now features Auto IT8 calibration without having to prescan or even accurately align the paper target.

Posted by covey22 at 5:02 PM

Camera RAW 4.1 Delayed

Adobe has delayed releasing Camera RAW 4.1 until Friday 01-June-2007. The update will feature additional support for newer DSLRs such as the Fujifilm S5 Pro, the Nikon D40X as well as improvements to sharpening and noise reduction tools.

Posted by covey22 at 12:20 AM

FedeoMay 20, 2007

Free Capture NX with D200 Purchase

Our members in the UK will be pleased to hear that Nikon is offering full versions of Capture NX free with every D200 purchased between 18-May and 13-July of 2007.

Posted by covey22 at 9:12 PM

FedeoMay 8, 2007

Adobe CS3 One Day Conferences

Adobe is offering One Day conferences on the new Creative Suite 3 in a variety of U.S. cities, starting 16-May-2007.

For USD79, participants will learn about the newest image editing during the morning, get an opportunity to speak to Adobe experts about specific needs in the afternoon, and browse the Solutions Showcase for a wide variety of Adobe partners and their offerings. Registered attendees also receive a Lynda.com training package and plug-ins from onOne software at no extra charge.

Posted by covey22 at 9:25 PM

FedeoMay 1, 2007

Fujifilm Firmware Version 1.06 for the S5 DSLR

Fujifilm has posted another firmware revision for the S5 Pro Digital SLR.

Changes to this latest firmware include:

1. Better white balance when setting FLASH-mode for the WHITE BLANCE.
2. Better white balance when setting AUTO-mode for the WHITE BLANCE and using Nikon non-CPU lenses. *It requires to set the maximum aperture according to the FinePix S5 Pro Owener's Manual(p.121- p.124).
3. Upgrade of Barcode-reading function
4. Upgrade of [FUNCTION LOCK] function

Posted by covey22 at 5:25 AM | Comments

FedeoApril 27, 2007

D40X is TIPA's Entry-Level DSLR of the Year

Congratulations are in order to Nikon on winning the TIPA award for best entry-level Digital SLR with the D40X.

Other notable winners include the Coolpix P5000 for Best Digital Compact camera, the Nikkor 55-200 DX VR for Best Entry-level Lens, and Apple's Aperture workflow program for Best Photo Software. Congratulations to all the winners!

Posted by covey22 at 1:15 AM | Comments

FedeoApril 24, 2007

Adobe Photoshop CS3 Ships

Eagerly awaited by many Intel Mac owners, the latest edition of Photoshop has finally shipped and is available for order. For our members still on the fence, check out the Macworld Review that gives it a thumbs-up with some minor nits about the interface.

Posted by covey22 at 12:59 AM | Comments

Aperture 1.5.3 Now Available

The latest iteration of Apple's workflow program focuses on overall reliability and performance. For Mac platform users, Apple recommends installing OSX 10.4.9 for it's ability to read a variety of DSLR RAW files, including Nikon models.

Posted by covey22 at 12:43 AM | Comments

Camera RAW 4 - Not For CS2

Adobe pushed out Camera RAW 4.0 and it's latest DNG Converter late last week. But CS2 owners beware; the RAW converter is not backwardly compatible with Photoshop CS2 and Elements 4.0 or earlier.

Posted by covey22 at 12:34 AM | Comments

FedeoMarch 9, 2007

Adobe Offers Dual Versions of CS3

Adobe has widened the role of CS3, offering an Expanded Version suitable for digital imaging, but integrates 3D and motion graphics, as well as image measurement and analysis. Both CS3 versions are expected to be released on 27-March, during the program's formal launch.

Posted by covey22 at 4:04 AM | Comments

FedeoMarch 6, 2007

Nikon View Pro Cancelled

In a simple press release, Nikon announced the death of the the View Pro software; the successor to the free Nikon View/Editor that came bundled with many Coolpix and Digital SLR cameras.

The promised software never had the chance to come to fruition. First announced on 16-February of 2006, Nikon View Pro drew mixed reactions, many shutterbugs were unconvinced of the quality of a pay-for-play image browser, especially given the manufacturer's rocky track record with Capture 4.x at the time. As taken directly from the release:

We decided to suspend the release based on our judgment that the new software's performance would not be optimal for the new environment. We are currently developing a new generation of image management and browsing software for download from our website, and plan to begin offering this before the end of 2007.

Join the discussion on this issue at Nikonians.

Posted by covey22 at 6:53 PM | Comments

FedeoMarch 3, 2007

Photoshop: Coming to a Web Browser Near You

Our colleagues at Imaging-Resource report that Adobe is planning to integrate Photoshop-brand editing software into popular online photo communities.

Posted by covey22 at 2:44 AM | Comments

FedeoMarch 1, 2007

PMA Pre-Show Announcements: 01-March-2007

PMA updates are starting to pour in; the pre-show frenzy is underway. For today's roundup - Corel and Lexar continue their bundling of PSP 10 Pro and Snapfire, Quantum announces a very portable softbox and XRite's latest i1 calibration device features an ambient light sensor.

Corel and Lexar are extending their offer of bundling a full version Paint Shop Pro 10 with select Professional media cards, and select Professional II cards will come with a full version of Snapfire Plus Standard Edition.

Looking for a very portable Softbox for your Quantum flash? The QF69 will fit your Quantum Q4d, 5d and 5d-R flashguns and thanks to it's near 180-degree coverage, it's a perfect diffuser match for wide-angle lenses.

X-Rite announces a new line of calibration devices called i1Display. The i1Display LT features a removable ambient light sensor and the i1Display2 has all the features of the LT plus the ability to color-match across groups of monitors.

Posted by covey22 at 7:52 PM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 20, 2007

Adobe Releases Camera RAW 3.7

Adobe has put up the latest point release for Camera RAW in Photoshop CS2. This version adds support for the Nikon D40 as well as the promised cross-read capability between CS and Lightroom. The updated plug-in is available for both Mac and Windows.

Posted by covey22 at 2:34 AM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 14, 2007

Nikon Capture NX 1.1 updater

Nikon has updated Capture NX to version 1.1. This free update to Nikon's NEF converter and image editor is available to Mac and Windows users of Capture NX from the Nikon USA website. New features include Windows Vista support, Native Intel Mac support, improved batch performance and resizeable histogram windows.

Posted by drjay32 at 2:18 PM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 2, 2007

Vista Reads RAW: Microsoft Posts Nikon NEF Codec

Nikon has released a codec (coder/decoder), enabling the new Vista Operating System to read Nikon RAW/NEF files natively. All Nikon DSLRs from the original D1 onwards are supported, as is all Coolpix cameras capable of writing RAW file output; namely the 5000, 5400, 5700, 8400, 8700 and 8800 models.

Not surprisingly, there are some teething problems with the codec. A noticable one is that editing the file in Vista with the codec will render the photo unreadable in Adobe Camera RAW. Users are advised to read the FAQ and peruse the developer blog for this and other exception conditions.

Posted by covey22 at 3:02 PM | Comments

FedeoJanuary 26, 2007

DxO Optics Adds D40, Additional Nikkor Support

DxO Optics now supports the Nikon D40 as well as the associated kit lenses.

Version 4.1 of the popular image correction tool also expanded lens support for the 18-55 AFS DX II, the 55-200 AFS DX, the 50mm 1.8D, the 18-135 AFS DX, the 70-200 VR, the 24-85/2.8-4, and the 24-120 VR.

Posted by covey22 at 4:05 AM | Comments

FedeoJanuary 10, 2007

Intel Mac-Friendly Capture Demos at MacWorld

Nikon demonstrated a version of Capture NX at Macworld that is specifically designed to run on the new Intel-based Macintosh platform. Initial reports from our members indicate it's much improved from version 1.1 in terms of performance and features.

Posted by covey22 at 2:42 AM | Comments

NAPP Launches Darkroom Magazine

The National Association of Photoshop Professionals has launched Darkroom Magazine, a periodical dedicated to advancing the use of Adobe's Lightroom workflow software. The magazine will be distributed alongside the veteran Photoshop User publication, which is free to NAPP paid subscribtion members.

Posted by covey22 at 12:02 AM | Comments

FedeoDecember 17, 2006

Adobe Posts Public Beta of Photoshop CS3

Encouraged by the feedback and reception of the user community on the Lightroom product, Adobe made a public beta of CS3 available as of Friday 15-December.

The debut of CS3 marks the first natively-compiled version of the editing suite for the new Intel Mac Pros. Note that a fully licensed copy of CS2 or equivalent product is required to allow this trial to function beyond two days. You will also have to submit your current product's serial number to obtain a corresponding number for the beta. Windows and Macintosh versions are currently available.

Posted by covey22 at 11:16 PM | Comments

FedeoNovember 4, 2006

Aperture Updated to 1.5.1

Our colleagues at Imaging Resource have the low-down on Apple's latest iteration of Aperture, with over 100 documented changes.

Posted by covey22 at 5:07 AM | Comments

FedeoNovember 2, 2006

DxO Optics V4 Adds Nikon D80 Support

Our colleagues at Imaging-Resource report that DxO Labs has added support to the Version 4 program for the Nikon D80, with a Macintosh binary due to arrive in late November.

Posted by covey22 at 1:43 PM | Comments

Adobe Camera Raw 3.6 Out of Beta

Adobe has officially blessed Camera Raw 3.6 with production status, and contains support for the Nikon D80 as well as other recent camera model releases.

Posted by covey22 at 1:35 PM | Comments

FedeoOctober 24, 2006

Macworld Focuses on Aperture 1.5

Macworld has the latest review on Apple's Aperture 1.5.

If you plan to use Aperture primarily to import, cull, and organize photos, and you rely on Photoshop for image editing - by all means consider the latest version. Aperture 1.5 also deserves a close look if you've outgrown iPhoto and you primarily shoot in JPEG format.

Posted by covey22 at 2:11 AM | Comments

FedeoOctober 22, 2006

Adobe Posts Lightroom Beta 4.1

Adobe Labs released Lightroom Beta 4.1 on Thursday October 19th. Changes include:

* Resolves external editor conflict
* Corrects export orientation for constrained portrait images
* Resolves missing image error with large web galleries
* Provides Photo Binder platform compatibility on optical media

Posted by covey22 at 12:38 AM | Comments

FedeoOctober 17, 2006

Nikon Establishes Australian Subsidiary

Our members Down Under will now have access to a direct subsidiary of Nikon locally. Nikon has announced the establishment of NIKON AUSTRALIA PTY LTD as an official sales and service channel provider with offices in Lidcombe, a suburb of Sydney. It's unclear at this time what the status of the relationship is with Maxwell Optical Industries Pty Ltd, the longtime presence of Nikon on the continent since 1959.

Posted by covey22 at 5:59 PM | Comments

FedeoOctober 3, 2006

Firmware Updates for Nikon D200, D2X and D2Hs

Nikon has released awaited firmware updates to the top-end Digital SLRs: the D200, D2X (not Xs) and D2Hs.

The D200 receives an update to use the WT-3 wireless transmitter, and Image Authentication capability.

The D2X and the D2Hs have a lot of improvements, including:

H 0.3 (ISO 1000 equivalent), H 0.5 (ISO 1100 equivalent), and H 0.7 (ISO 1250 equivalent) options will be added between the ISO 800 and HI-1 sensitivity settings (D2X only).

Autofocus subject acquisition and tracking capability will be improved.

A "Black-and-white (sRGB)" option will be added to the "Color mode" settings in the shooting menu (D2X only).

An "Image authentication" item will be added to the setup menu. However, the optional Image Authentication Software is required to verify image authenticity.

A "Trim" item will be added to the shooting menu (D2X only).

The "Custom" option in the shooting menu's "Tone compensation" item will be modified so that up to 3 user-defined curves can be downloaded to the camera.

An upgrade of Nikon Capture 4 Camera Control is scheduled to support download of 3 curves to the camera. The optional Camera Control Pro software can also be used to download curves to the camera.

A "Save/load settings" item will be added to the setup menu.

The "Mirror lock-up" item in the setup menu will be modified so that the mirror can be locked in the up position under battery power as well as AC adapter power.

The number of options available for the "Lock-on" item in the Custom Settings menu will be increased to 4: "Long", "Normal", "Short", and "Off".

"Max. sensitivity" and "Min. shutter speed" options will be added to the "ISO auto" item in the Custom Settings menu.

The "Maximum shots (Max No. of shots taken in continuous shooting)" item in the Custom Settings menu will be modified to allow a maximum setting of 60 shots.

The "FUNC. button" in the Custom Settings menu will be divided into two items: "FUNC. button press" and "FUNC. button + command dials" (D2X only).

A "Recent settings" item will be added to the setup menu.

Posted by covey22 at 9:28 PM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 26, 2006

Photokina Day One Updates

As we noted earlier, updates have been coming in fast and furious from the show floor. It would seem some vendors have been waiting for Day One to reveal some of their best stuff. While not a comprehensive report, here's what's been seen to date, courtesy of our colleagues at LetsGoDigital and Imaging-Resource.

Sigma has been saving up a lot of buzz energy for today - the SD14 Digital SLR specs were finally revealed and the good news is the camera is no longer a RAW only device - there's three JPEG recording modes. The 14MP Foveon X3 sensor should put the company back in the playing field. The new sensor also makes an appearance in the Sigma DP1 digital compact camera, featuring a 16.6mm/f4 fixed lens which gives a 28mm field-of-view. On the lens front, Sigma updated several lenses to the Four-Thirds family mount - the 18-50mm f2.8 DC lens with macro, the 24mm/f1.8 EX DG wide angle also with macro (7.1" at 1:2.7), the APO 135-400mm/f4.5-5.6 telephoto zoom and the supertele APO 300-800mm/f5.6 EX DG HSM lens. But the kicker came last - Sigma's second Optical Stabilization (OS) lens: The 18-200mm/f3.5-6.3 DC OS appears to be a direct competitor to the Nikkor 18-200 VR!

On the storage front, SanDisk updates their Extreme III family to a whopping 16GB CompactFlash card, and Pretec responds with their 80x version. SanDisk also made inroads in the Secure Digital segment with their new 4GB SDHC (High Capacity) card rated at Ultra II speeds. Epson updates their image tank/viewer line with the 40GB P3000 and the 80GB P5000, both have an enormous 4.0" LCD and fast USB 2.0 connectivity.

Finally, if you can't make the show, then enjoy some of the sights of the event from ground level with Imaging-Resource's roving reporter Mike Pasini.

Posted by covey22 at 3:12 PM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 25, 2006

Photokina 2006 Updates T Minus 1

With one day to go before the official opening of Photokina 2006, a last burst of announcements has hit the streets.

First off - the big news that many of our members have been waiting for - the Fujifilm S5 Pro Digital SLR has been announced. While not a complete product offering, the fact that it's in the queue has relieved much anxiety over the S3 Pro's successor.

Olympus took the covers off their E-1P prototype DSLR as well, but fans here will have to wait as this too was a product development announcement.

Canon has jumped on the "me-too" image tank bandwagon with the M30/80 series portable photo storage. Featuring a 3.7" TFT wide-angle viewing screen, CF/SD slots and kudos to the manufacturer - the ability to share BP-511 batteries with the Digital Rebel and EOSD series cameras.

In software news, Bibble 4.9 is released, with the much requested cloning/healing tool and Nikon D80 RAW support. Light Crafts Inc. updates LightZone to version 2.0 in beta format. Our friends at Nik Software have bundled all three of their popular programs; Color Efex 2.0 (Complete Edition), Sharpener Pro 2.0 and Dfine 1.0 into the Nik Professional Suite. And just hot off the presses, DxO Labs announced the immediate availability of DxO Optics Version 4 for the PC.

On the business front, it appears Leica is making moves into the medium and large format segment with it's majority share purchase into Jenoptik's Sinar division - known for it's manufacture of digital backs. No immediate plans were announced other than "This is a first step on the strategic path towards growing the business of Leica Camera AG," said the firm.

And the strange-but-true: Olympus reveals a digital camera body made entirely of cypress wood to showcase it's advances in molding technology. While stylish and unique, one would have to wonder how sturdy such an item would be. The good news - it would float on water...

Posted by covey22 at 4:29 PM | Comments

Adobe Posts PhotoShop Lightroom Beta 4

Adobe has posted the latest updates to their workflow program and given it what appears to be the official moniker - Photoshop Lightroom. The download requires registration and there's a fair amount of release note information.

Posted by covey22 at 3:16 PM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 19, 2006

Corel Paint Shop Pro XI Announced

Our colleagues at Imaging-Resource bring us word of Corel's latest Paint Shop Pro release...

Posted by covey22 at 7:52 PM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 12, 2006

PhotoShop Elements 5.0 Announced

Adobe has announced the latest upgrade to their popular entry-level photo-editing program. Adobe PhotoShop Elements 5.0 brings even more editing and publishing capabilities to your still photos, such as a built-in photo service to put your memories online, enhanced RAW editing, a much awaited Color Curves capability, Black & White conversion, animation tools and much more. The upgrade is expected in October of 2006 for both Mac and Windows at an MSRP of USD89.99.

Posted by covey22 at 5:21 PM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 9, 2006

International Internet Photo Community Incubates New IT Solutions Services Company

Putting people first - Internet-based online photography site takes lessons learned from in-house technology success to form custom software development outsourcing company.

The global business need for efficient, customized software development and supporting IT-services has found a home in the heart of Europe.

A new IT-outsourcing specialist called enprovia Software Engineering s.r.o. has emerged from the in-house needs of Nikonians - Worldwide Home for Nikon photographers.

The Nikonians site was faced with the challenge of responding to over a million daily hits from a base of more than 50,000 members in over 140 countries. New members wanted a reliable search engine that could provide quick access to frequently asked questions.

"We began with existing software," said Nikonians co-founder Bo Stahlbrandt, who founded Nikonians with his partner J. Ramon Palacios six years ago. "But the specialized nature of our community soon had us developing our own in-house software solutions." One of those solutions was a dedicated search engine, NikoScope.com, which helps members quickly find information on the site's nearly 500,000 pages.

See the press release for more details.

Posted by covey22 at 10:10 PM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 7, 2006

ACDSee 9 is Coming?

PhotographyBlog brings us word that an update to the popular ACDSee photo filing program is in the works.

Posted by covey22 at 4:40 AM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 5, 2006

PhotoStudio Darkroom for RAW Editing

MacWorld brings us word on ArcSoft's PhotoStudio Darkroom which promises non-destructive editing of RAW files from Canon, Nikon and Panasonic. It also features fixes for perspective and lens corrections and chromatic abberation.

Posted by covey22 at 4:43 PM | Comments

FedeoSeptember 1, 2006

Capture NX Update Version 1.01

Capture NX has been updated to version 1.01. Changes include:

* D80 Raw files are supported
* Batch processes have been improved
* Browser menu, File Directory palette, Camera Settings palette and Control Points have been improved
* Print Layout Dialog has been improved
* Lasso & Marquee tools have been improved
* Edit List has been improved
* Options from the View menu have been improved

US Mac and Windows versions are available. Europe and Asia have the updates as well.

Posted by covey22 at 5:32 PM | Comments

FedeoAugust 30, 2006

Coolpix Connect: Send Your Photos Wirelessly

Nikon and T-Mobile have partnered to provide a new service called Coolpix Connect; aimed at Nikon Coolpix S7c owners that allow photos taken to be sent wirelessly using T-Mobile's HotSpot nation-wide network.

By activating the camera's wireless mode when located near a T-Mobile HotSpot, owners will automatically be signed up and receive a year's complimentary subscription. The subscription includes 50MB of photo storage for up to two weeks at a time; and e-mail recipients of the photos will receive a thumbnail and link to a customized web page where they can view the full-size image.

Posted by covey22 at 8:55 PM | Comments

FedeoAugust 23, 2006

Birders Delight: Nat Geo Field Guide now on PDAs

Wildlife photographers who want to know more about the avian they have in their viewfinders no longer need to lug about paperbound manuals. National Geographic has made information on more than 1600 birds accessible from your PDA. Based on their best-selling Field Guide to the Birds of North America, the National Geographic Bird Software puts an interactive field guide in your Palm OS-capable PDA, complete with details such as ranges and song and call playback.

Posted by covey22 at 4:56 PM | Comments

FedeoAugust 15, 2006

Tourist Removal Tool

In what must be one of the quirkiest developments in photo post-processing, Snapmania is marketing their Tourist Removal technology which claims to be able to parse out objects such as people or vehicles. The catch, however, is that the tool is online only and you must sign up for a Snapmania picture hosting account.

Posted by covey22 at 3:30 PM | Comments

FedeoAugust 4, 2006

DxO Labs Annouces DxO Optics Pro V4

Coming soon: A Nikonians Review on this product!

New Yor