FedeoNovember 3, 2009

DxO Labs unveils New DxO Optics Pro 6

DxO Labs has added to their automatic digital imaging enhancement software line-up with the introduction of DxO Optics Pro 6.

The DxO software, designed for enthusiastic amateur and professional photographers shooting in JPEG or RAW format, is recognized for its unique automated optical corrections (distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberrations, lens softness) and its state-of-the-art RAW conversion.
The new version announcement includes links for downloading free trials of the software, which can tackle such issues as noise removal, exposure optimization, keystoning correction, color control and dust removal.

The software includes support for a long list of Nikon Cameras.

According to the DxO Press Release (Nov 3):
New features in DxO Optics Pro 6 include, among others:
► Workspace customization for easier access to the photographer’s preferred tools;
►Detachable and multi-line “Project” window for multi-monitor display and full-screen image preview;
►Correction comparison between several candidates (for selecting preferred photo rendering);
►Streamlined access to DxO Presets for increased productivity;
►Automatic detection and download of missing DxO Optics Modules;
►More ergonomic user interface for better accessibility.

Availability and exceptional introductory price For Windows:
DxO Optics Pro 6 for Windows Standard and Elite editions are scheduled for release in early November 2009 from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers, and will be available at an exceptional 33 % discount until December 31, 2009:

►Standard edition: $ 109 instead of $ 169 (or a savings of $ 60)
►Elite edition: $ 199 instead of $ 299 (or a savings of $ 100)
All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro 5 after June 1st, 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6. All other users benefit from the following 40% discounts until December 31, 2009.
►DxO Optics Pro Standard (any version) to DxO Optics Pro 6 Standard: $ 44 instead of $79.
►DxO Optics Pro Elite (any version) to DxO Optics Pro 6 Elite: $ 69 instead of $119.
Prices exclude sales taxes and VAT.

For Mac:
DxO Optics Pro 6 for Macintosh is scheduled for release in early 2010. A Macintosh intermediate release,
DxO Optics Pro 5.3.6, fully compatible with Snow Leopard, is scheduled for end of November. It will also include support for additional camera bodies.

Posted by flashdeadline at 3:36 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoOctober 28, 2009

Annotate! Community Edition available

New version of the popular, free Annotate! image commenting software available. Version 1.05 include features such as direct email from application to share your annotations and a new export layout feature. Annotate! is non-destructible, storing all comments in the EXIF portion of the JPG header. Download Annotate!

The Community Edition, V1.05, of the Annotate! software is a new, free version that allows you to use it even if you are not a registered Nikonians user.

Should you have installed a previous version of Annotate! such as V1.04 or earlier, then it is recommended to manually remove that version from your system, since the Community Edition will not automatically remove that application when being installed.

Annotate! is currently available for MS-Windows users only. We are aware of that many Macintosh users would like to use it as well. We are going to launch a Mac OS X version of Annotate! but a final launch date has not been set.

Download the photo commenting software Annotate!

Posted by bgs at 8:31 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoOctober 27, 2009

onOne Software Launches Plug-In Suite 5

onOne Software launches Plug-In Suite 5, encompassing some of the most popular and latest add-on photo editing programs at very aggressive pricing.

The collection of plug-ins includes Genuine Fractals 6, Photo Tools 2.5 Pro, Photo Frame 4.5 Pro, Mask Pro 4.1, Photo Tune 3 and Focal Point 2. The Suite also features compatibility with Photoshop CS2 to CS4 and will run on Mac Snow Leopard and Windows Operating Systems, the latter with 64-bit Support. Four of the plug-ins are will fully integrate with Aperture 2 and Lightroom 2.

If purchased separately, this package would nominally cost USD1299. onOne is also offering an immediate USD200 discount, bringing the Suite down to an aggressive pricing of USD399. The Suite is expected to hit shelves in early November. Pre-order your copy today at OnOne Software.

Posted by covey22 at 1:01 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoOctober 25, 2009

Annotate! by Nikonians® new version released

Annotate version 1.0.5 is now available for free download. This free software enables you to make notes directly on images without having to edit the images themselves. The program is very easy to use and is designed to help you share image critiques, or for teams working jointly on images such as in publishing or architecture.

Annotate allows you to add textual annotations and "virtual crops" bound to coordinates in JPEG. The annotations are stored in a non-destructible way into the EXIF part of the JPEG file and do not change the image itself.

If you have already downloaded Annotate, you can check which version you have by pressing your F1 key. You will see the version near the top, and you will also see (near the bottom of the screen) a handy link for Annotate tutorials.

The new version features include:
— A new export layout allows you to draw annotation text inside annotation boxes
— You can undo an accidental delete of annotation with CTRL+Z
— The application can be minimized to your tray
— There is minimum limit on font size in the export dialog
— You can email an annotated image directly from annotate
— The software now displays a splash screen upon startup, highlighting new features for each new version.

That new export layout is a handy feature and will only take a few seconds for you to master. Once you have your annotations made in the familiar manner (with the notes in a dialog box to the right of the image) all you have to do is hit the Export button and you can now drag your annotations to any position on the image screen itself. In this example of the airplane, we dragged the text to the lower right corner, and while we had it in place, we took advantage of the handy font increase/decrease controls to boost the size of the font for easy viewing. We went a few extra steps up on the font size until we got our desired result (shown below):

For more information, don't forget to check join the discussion that has been helping to shape this software thanks to our community members who are sharing their experiences.

Update from the Developers: Important note for 64-bit users: (10/27/2009)
The 1.0.4 version of Annotate! by Nikonians® had issues with 64-bit versions of Windows operating systems. The 1.0.5 version fixed those issues.

Posted by flashdeadline at 10:12 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoOctober 14, 2009

PhotoShop on the Go: New iPhone Mobile App

Adobe has posted a version of PhotoShop usable on the iPhone. The new program is sure to be a hit with the rapidly growing base of Apple device users. Using the popular finger gesture interface, users can crop, rotate, apply effects, adjust color and more. As a plus, users can also load their images up to their Photoshop.com account for web publication or to ensure backup. Get the free mobile app here.

Posted by covey22 at 9:52 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoAugust 23, 2009

Community helps shape new software upgrade

Your free software upgrade for Annotate! by Nikonians® is now available.

Released less than two months ago, Annotate! by Nikonians® is a free software tool which enables you to easily make notes directly onto images without any image editing required.

The new version adds features inspired by suggestions made through the discussion forum that has been set aside for this software. The suggestions of the community are helping to shape the functionality of the software.
To check which version you have, just press your F1 key and you will be presented with the help screen as shown here. This image was quickly annotated to highlight features of the screen.

New features in version 1.0.3 include: The ability to move annotation textboxes and adjust text size while exporting; adjusting location of the small software stamp (like a watermark) to not obstruct important parts of the image; and an updated user's guide.

Download Annotate! by Nikonians® and join us in fine-tuning it with your own suggestions today.

Posted by flashdeadline at 10:45 PM | Comments | TrackBack

Adobe Plug-Ins Support D300s and D3000

Adobe has provided interim support for the Nikon D300s and the Nikon 3000 in the form of release candidate plug-ins for Camera Raw 5.5 and DNG Converter 5.5. Download the RCs here.

Editor's note: Release Candidate status means these plug-ins are interim and are not yet fully production supported.

Posted by covey22 at 5:19 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoAugust 6, 2009

View NX 1.40 Updated with Nikon D300s, D3000 Support

Nikon has updated the View NX utility to support the newly announced D300s, D3000 and the latest Coolpix models including the camera/projector S1000PJ.

Posted by covey22 at 5:05 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoAugust 4, 2009

Nikonians Exclusive Savings on Datacolor's Spyder3Elite

Have you ever looked at your prints and your monitor and wonder why the colors might sometimes not match? Or even viewing your online photos on two different computers, they seem to be off? Just walk into any technology store and look at the rows of monitors for sale - they all have different color renditions, hues and saturations.

Many of our enthusiast and professional members know the answer - color management. In order to successfully manage your color - you need a colorimeter, such as DataColor's Spyder3.

And for the month of August, DataColor is offering significant savings exclusive to Nikonians members on their Spyder3Elite system. Complete with software and target color patches, your monitor can be calibrated in minutes; and you can be confident that what you see on the screen is what everyone else will see - in print or online.

Posted by covey22 at 3:57 PM | Comments | TrackBack

Topaz Labs Discount for Nikonians

Topaz Labs, makers of popular Photoshop Plug-Ins such as Adjust, Vivacity and DeJPEG are offering a very generous 25% discount for all contributing Nikonians at the Silver, Gold and Platinum levels.

Many of our members have discovered how easy and more powerful their image editing has become using these plug-ins. See the results for yourself by tuning into Topaz Labs online tutorials and keep up with the latest developments on their company blog.

Posted by covey22 at 2:32 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJuly 2, 2009

OnOne Software Summer Campaign - 20% Off for Nikonians

Nikonians Silver, Gold and Platinum members are going to have a great summer; OnOne Software has just increased the discount rate for Nikonians to 20% off their entire product line!

OnOne Software publishes an array of utilities, plug-ins and tools to make your post-processing, faster and easier to help create stunning images. Powerful programs such as Genuine Fractals 6, and the the versatile Plug-In Suite 4.5 help get you back to shooting images sooner.

To claim your summer campaign discount of 20%, login into your Nikonians account and go to our Rewards page.

Posted by covey22 at 4:38 PM | Comments | TrackBack

Nikon Teams Up with Fujitsu for Camera Firmware

Nikon announced today that it will collaborate with Fujitsu Broad Solution and Consulting Inc. to form Nikon Imaging Systems Inc. The new venture is solely intended to create firmware for Nikon digital cameras.

Editor's note: At first glance, this appears to be a good collaboration. Nikon's long-held expertise in camera technology wedded to Fujitsu's disciplined approach to software development is a proof that Nikon is interested in raising the bar again with it's products. In much the same way that Nik Software lent a lot of it's expertise in revamping the Capture product line, we can expect to see improvement if not innovation in future camera model firmware.

Posted by covey22 at 3:28 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJune 30, 2009

Annotate! by Nikonians - New, free software

Annotate! by Nikonians is a free software tool which enables you to easily make notes directly onto images without any image editing needed. The program is very easy to use, making it easy to to give image critique, or to have teams working jointly on images, such as in publishing, architects ...

Direct download of Annotate! Just click the INSTALL button. The program runs on MS Windows only right now. We will likely launch a Macintosh version of the program later. A user guide is available by pressing function key "F1".

More information in the Nikonians Software Forum.

Posted by bgs at 10:57 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJune 26, 2009

nikonians.org continues its Welcoming Contest

nikonians.org — The World Wide Home for Nikon Photographers — continues its Welcoming Photo Contest for New Members. This time, members registering between June 22nd and July 19th will be eligible to enter and have a chance to win one of four Nik Color Efex Pro for Capture NX2 - Complete Edition software packs with 52 Filters by Nik Software, valued at $179.95 USD.

Color Efex Pro 3.0 for Capture NX 2 offers a comprehensive, powerful, and easy to use set of filters to satisfy demanding enthusiasts and professional photographers.

Details on how to enter can be found at the Nikonians New Members forum here

A new winner will be selected every week for the next four weeks.
The first winner will be announced June 29th, 2009
The last one of this series on July 20, 2009

Posted by jrp at 2:19 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJune 20, 2009

Nik Software - The Complete Collection Ultimate Edition

Hamburg, June 17, 2009 — Nik Software today announced that its popular Complete Collection, which bundles all of the company’s award-winning digital imaging software tools, is now also available as a Lightroom Edition at a special price of 299.95 Euros (incl. VAT).

The Complete Collection for Photoshop has been updated to include Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 support as well and also includes installers for Adobe Photoshop and Apple Aperture. Current registered owners of the Photoshop versions of Nik Software products can download and install the Lightroom compatible versions free of charge at www.niksoftware.com/lightroom.

“The availability of the Lightroom versions of our entire product line completes a journey that we began approximately 3 months ago to rapidly update all of our software products for Lightroom compatibility,” said Michael J. Slater president and CEO of Nik Software. “Our goal at Nik Software is to deliver the tools that photographers need on the platforms they prefer in their everyday workflow.”

With the Complete Collection Lightroom Edition, each individual software product is installed as a plug-in for Lightroom 2. Once installed in Lightroom, Dfine 2.0, Viveza, Color Efex Pro 3.0, Silver Efex Pro and Sharpener Pro 3.0 are accessible via the Photo>Edit In… menu. Edits made using the plug-ins within Lightroom are non-destructive in nature, with edits applied automatically to a newly generated TIFF file and not the original. Each product also takes advantage of Lightroom and its efficiencies for every day tasks, like the ability to edit multiple images in one session, saving time for photographers.

All Nik Software products included in the Complete Collection feature Nik’s patented U Point technology which revolutionizes the way photographers edit. U Point powered Control Points give photographers precise selective editing functions without the need to create complicated selections and layer masks. This innovative technology is easy to use and works directly on the image, empowering photographers to make selective enhancements in a fraction of the time needed by using other methods.

Pricing and Availability

The Complete Collection Lightroom Edition as well as the Complete Collection Aperture Edition (MSRP: 299.95 Euros incl. 19% German VAT) are available in electronic form directly from Nik Software (www.niksoftware.com) or in boxed versions from Nik Software and through specialty camera retailers. This applies analogously to Nik Software’s Complete Collection for Photoshop, Lightroom, Aperture and Elements (MSRP: 599.95 Euros incl. 19% German VAT). A complete list of resellers may be found at www.niksoftware.com/resellers.

Customers who currently own Photoshop versions of Nik Software products may use their product keys to install the Lightroom versions.

And remember, contributing Silver, Gold and Platinum Nikonians Members receive an additional 20% off all Nik Software products. Go to Nikonians Rewards to claim your discount now!

Posted by covey22 at 12:01 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJune 9, 2009

Nikon Rechargeable Batteries for Coolpix L100

Responding to "consumer demand," Nikon has updated the firmware for the popular Coolpix L100 camera to support rechargeable lithium batteries.

In addition, Nikon plans to release sets of OEM NiMH rechargeable AA batteries (EN-MH2-B4) and a matching charger (MH-73). Both items will be available as a set (EN-MH2-B4 Set). The availability is projected for this summer, with pricing TBA.

Editor's notes: It is unclear at this time whether the firmware will allow use of third-party NiMH rechargeables. The firmware is not currently available on any of the Nikon Knowledgebase Support portals.

Posted by covey22 at 3:23 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoMay 26, 2009

Adobe ACR v.5.4 RC with D5000 Support

Adobe has let a Release Candidate for Camera Raw out the door. The beta version 5.4 is likely due to pressure for supporting a number of popular camera models, including the Nikon D5000, Canon EOS 500D, Olympus E-450/E-620 and the Sigma DP-2 digital rangefinder.

Posted by covey22 at 12:41 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoApril 29, 2009

Nikon Camera Control Pro 2.5 Now Available

Nikon has updated their remote camera control suite to Version 2.5. Changes include:

• Support for the new D5000 digital SLR
• No backwards compatibility for OSX 10.3.9
• Fixes to AutoDX Crop settings and File Transfer behavior

The update is available on Nikon's Knowledgebase Portal for Windows and Macintosh.

Posted by covey22 at 6:25 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoApril 17, 2009

Nikon D40 and D40X Firmware Updates

Nikon updates the firmware for the popular D40 and D40X digital SLRs to improve compatibility with the EN-EL9a battery, thereby increasing the theoretical number of shots per battery charge. (link to Nikon USA firmware page).

Posted by covey22 at 1:47 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoApril 3, 2009

Ritz Camera to Close 300 Stores

As a follow-up to our earlier story on Ritz Camera's restructuring, the photo retailer chain has announced today that they will close 300 stores with a liquidation sale starting 4-April and continuing until all inventory is sold. A detailed list of stores affected is available here (Adobe Acrobat Reader required).

Posted by covey22 at 4:41 PM | Comments | TrackBack

Capture One 4.7 Now with Nikon D3X Support

Nikonians Corporate Partner Phase One has released their latest iteration of the Capture One 4.7 photo-processing workflow.

Capture One 4.7 new features include:

• Newly designed EIP file format that packages Phase One RAW files and settings together but leaves the original file untouched.
• JPEG and TIFF Files are now accepted as input and can be manipulated using the tools within Capture One, with the exception of the Lens Correction module.
• Added Tethered Capture support for the Nikon D3X and the Canon 5D Mark II.

A Free 30-Day Trial is available.

Update:

Capture One 5 PRO is now available:

Posted by covey22 at 4:21 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoApril 1, 2009

Capture NX2 Version 2.2 Now Available

As reported earlier here, Capture NX 2 Version 2.2 with Coolpix P6000 NRW support is now available for download (Nikon USA links).

Posted by covey22 at 3:43 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoMarch 28, 2009

Capture 2.2 Coming in April, Supports NRW

Nikon will be offering Capture 2.2 as a free upgrade to current 2.x users in April. The new version's features and system specifications are available for perusal. Most notably, Coolpix P6000 NRW support is included, likely in response to earlier feedback from owner communities.

Posted by covey22 at 12:43 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoMarch 26, 2009

ViewNX with P6000 RAW Support Posted

Nikon posted updates this week to the ViewNX and TransferNX utilities. Notably, ViewNX (Windows and Mac) 1.3 now supports Coolpix P6000 RAW (.NRW) files and TransferNX (Windows and Mac) 1.4 adds some features for users of the Picturetown photo site.

(Editor's note: the links above are to Nikon's UK & Ireland website. As of the publication of this article, Nikon USA has still not posted the latest versions to the KnowledgeBase)

Posted by covey22 at 2:16 PM | Comments | TrackBack

Apple Aperture Portraiture 2 plugin now available

NIKONIANS REWARDS PROGRAM Alert: Imagenomic has announced the commercial release of Portraiture 2 for Apple's Aperture imaging application and our Nikonians Rewards program discount is available to Silver, Gold and Platinum members.

Imagenomic has announced the commercial release of Portraiture 2 for Apple's Aperture imaging application. This new product edition extends all of the popular features and benefits of the latest Portraiture plugin to the Aperture user community.

Portraiture 2 for Aperture is a newly-engineered version that fits seamlessly into Aperture digital image management, editing and output.
The release of Portraiture 2 for Aperture follows an extensive public beta test period involving over 1,000 registered Aperture users.
This new edition has been put to use as a professional retouching tool in some of the most demanding client environments involving large production assignments requiring accurate skin retouching adjustments – often in batch processing mode – to meet tight deadlines.
For a complete break-down of all features in this new release and demonstrations of before and after images, check the Imagenomic Portraiture 2 Features page.

Your Nikonians advantage
To use your Nikonians Rewards eligibility (a 20% discount on Imagenomic products), go to your "My User Menu" (see top right corner of the forums for link) and click on your "Voucher and Coupons" section. Scroll to Imagenomic Discounts and follow the link at the end of that section.

Posted by flashdeadline at 9:18 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoMarch 3, 2009

Apple Digital Camera Raw 2.5 Now Available

Apple posted their latest update to Digital Camera Raw today, which brings compatibility to files created by the Nikon D3X and the Epson RD-1X rangefinder.

Posted by covey22 at 12:36 AM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJanuary 26, 2009

Save 20% on Portraiture, Real Grain ...

20% discount offered on the Imagenomic products Portraiture, Real Grain, Noiseware and their Plugin Suite to all Nikonians on Silver membership or higher. For this and other offers available to you, just see our Nikonians Rewards page.

Posted by bgs at 5:11 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJanuary 23, 2009

Save 10% on all OnOne Products

The Photoshop plugin suite from OnOne Software covers a broad range of useful functions. Now you get a 10% rebate on all of OnOne's products if you are on a Nikonians Silver membership or higher. See the Nikonians Rewards Program for currently available discounts.

Posted by bgs at 6:59 PM | Comments | TrackBack

FedeoJanuary 20, 2009

Save 25% on Photomatix

Nikonians on Silver and higher get a 25% discount on the great HDR tool Photomatix from HDRSoft. Voucher code in your User Menu.

Posted by bgs at 6:08 PM | Comments | TrackBack

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 York, NY and Paris, France (July 7, 2006) DxO Labs today revealed details of the next version of its flagship application DxO Optics Pro software which improves the image quality of Digital Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras and advanced digicams. DxO Optics Pro is the award-winning digital image enhancement tool incorporating revolutionary optics, noise and exposure corrections in an easy-to-use, feature rich application for Mac and PC users.

"In just two years, photographers worldwide have come to expect breakthrough solutions to image enhancement challenges from DxO Labs," said Luc Marin, vice president of the Photography Business Unit at DxO Labs. "DxO Optics Pro v4 brings a wealth of true innovations to photographers in search of ultimate image quality solutions."

DxO Optics Pro v4, slated to be available on Macintosh and Windows platforms in September 2006, includes four main areas of exciting new functionality:

NEW: Unique DxO Color Engine with breakthrough features
Thanks to the new DxO Color Engine, DxO Optics Pro v4 provides photographers a complete color adjustment toolbox including two revolutionary features:
*New unique Multi-Point Color Balance tool to easily perform optimal color balance for a given scene.
*New Color Rendition feature offering multiple color renderings and modes for images. In particular, the Color Rendition profile of one camera can be applied to images taken with another camera.
Many other color features are included and in particular the ability to import third party ICC color rendition profiles.

NEW: Third generation DxO Optics Engine comprehensive image geometry control
Now in its third release, DxO Optics Engine, a core component of DxO Optics Pro, expands functionality to include horizon adjustment (rotation), keystoning (perspective) correction as well as a new exclusive Volume Anamorphosis correction feature. This groundbreaking feature automatically brings three-dimensional objects that appear deformed by ultra-wide angle lenses back to their correct proportions. The effect of this unique correction is particularly dramatic for images including human beings. As with previous versions, DxO Optics Engine automatically corrects lens distortion, vignetting, lens softness and chromatic aberrations including purple fringing.

NEW: Improved Performance and Optimized Workflow up to 500% faster
Remaining focused on providing automatic image enhancement, DxO Optics Pro v4 marks a radical overhaul of the application’s ergonomics as well as many important enhancements to the workflow. Both image adjustment and image processing speed have been key priorities in the development of DxO Optics Pro v4 resulting in speed increases of up to 500% compared to the previous version. DxO Optics Pro v4 will also be optimized for Mac/Intel processors.

NEW: Core DxO image enhancement features to be available as Adobe Photoshop Plug-In
Now, DxO Optics Pro features will always be available within the most popular photo-retouching application. Once installed in Photoshop, the new DxO Optics Pro Plug-in will allow users to directly access core DxO image correction features when opening RAW or JPEG images.

Availability and upgrade policy
DxO Optics Pro v4 is planned to be available for Windows, Intel Mac and Macintosh in September 2006. All purchasers of DxO Optics Pro v3.55 after June 20, 2006 are eligible for a free upgrade. Pricing of upgrades and full versions of DxO Optics Pro v4 will be announced at a later date.

DxO Optics Pro has been chosen as 2006 "Best Photo Software" by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA).

About DxO Labs and its DxO Technology
DxO Labs is a software and intellectual property licensing company focused on research in applied mathematics for still and video image processing. We provide advanced technologies and reliable, off-the-shelf solutions to achieve excellence in all aspects of image quality for companies and consumers in the imaging business:
DXO LABS ANNOUNCES DXO OPTICS PRO V4 3/3
*Digital camera vendors;
*Professional and serious amateur photographers;
*Photography journalists and imaging experts;
*Mobile imaging: cameraphone vendors, camera module manufacturers, sensor and processor vendors.
We guarantee state-of-the-art technology in image processing thanks to our significant research efforts. DxO Labs' ambition is for the "DxO" brand to become recognized as the consumer's trusted mark of excellence in image quality.
For more information, visit DxO Labs online at www.dxo.com
Adobe Photoshop is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Inc.

Posted by covey22 at 12:56 AM | Comments

FedeoAugust 2, 2006

Nik DFine Special News

We're bringing you the latest news on Nik Multimedia's DFine noise reduction and optimization program, including awards from CHIP Foto-Video Magazine, D200 support, discounts and more. Click here to see details.

Posted by covey22 at 5:00 PM | Comments

FedeoAugust 1, 2006

Alien Skin Software announces new plug-in for Photoshop for making massive enlargements

Alien Skin Software has announced the release of their newest plug-in for Photoshop and Photoshop Elements users. "Blow Up" is a resizing tool which, according to Alien Skin's website, is "better than bicubic interpolation and any other third party solution".

A free 30-day trial download is available from Alien Skin's website. Current owners of other Alien Skin products are eligible to purchase Blow Up at a discounted price.

Posted by drjay32 at 4:36 PM | Comments

FedeoJuly 29, 2006

Nikonians Offers Capture NX Workshops

With the official release of Capture NX now arriving on store shelves, Nikonians is pleased to announce that our popular Capture 4.4 workshops will be fully converted to Capture NX (lecture and materials) by the following workshop dates:

New York - October 6
Philadelphia - Otober 13
Washington DC - October 20
Chicago - November 3

Class sizes are limited - be sure to sign up early and reserve your space!

Posted by covey22 at 8:44 PM | Comments

FedeoJuly 28, 2006

Capture NX hits the Streets

Nikon's newest RAW converter Capture NX is now showing up in-stock at larger retailers like B&H Photo.

Posted by covey22 at 10:39 PM | Comments

Extensis Portfolio Suite Updated for Intel Mac

Extensis is now offering free Universal Application updates of it's popular Portfolio Suite workflow programs, suitable for use on Intel-based Macintosh computers.

Posted by covey22 at 8:38 PM | Comments

FedeoJuly 10, 2006

Nikon Capture NX Tips and Tricks

If you have recently downloaded the new Nikon Capture NX, you might want to check out our Capture NX FAQ/Tips and Tricks discussion. We'll be adding new topics frequently. We'd also love to hear your suggestions for Capture NX Tips and Tricks topics.

Posted by drjay32 at 6:09 PM | Comments

FedeoJuly 7, 2006

The Wait is Over: Capture NX Trial Now Available

Capture NX Trial Version is now available from Nikon in Windows (172MB w/ .NET and 13.4MB w/o .NET) and Macintosh (61.9MB). As previously stated, this is not a Universal Binary and the manufacturer does not guarantee compatibility with Intel Core. For upgrade information, click here.
UPDATE 1: Find the user's manual here.

Posted by covey22 at 3:01 PM | Comments

FedeoJuly 6, 2006

Nikon Capture NX Trial: Is July 7th the Magic Day?

A translated copy of the Capture NX page on Nikon Japan's website seems to indicate the trial version will be available on 7-July with a sales date of 28-July. (translation courtesy of Babelfish - results not guaranteed).

Posted by covey22 at 5:20 PM | Comments

FedeoJuly 5, 2006

Capture 4.4 Install Workaround for Intel Macs

Nikon has released a work-around that describes how to install Capture 4.4 on Intel-based Macintoshes.

Posted by covey22 at 5:57 PM | Comments

Nikon Capture Control Pro Trial for Windows and Macintosh

Nikonians Member Mallaig informed us that Nikon Europe has posted the Trial Version of Nikon Capture Control Pro for Windows and Macintosh. The Macintosh version supports only PowerPC; Intel Core support is not guaranteed. This product replaces the Camera Control portion found in Capture 4.x. Download the Windows trial here. (23.3MB) For the Macintosh version, click here. (19.5MB)
UPDATE 1: Nikon USA now posts their copies of the Windows and Mac versions.

Posted by covey22 at 2:51 PM | Comments

FedeoJune 28, 2006

Bibble Offers Discounts to RawShooter Premium Owners

On the heels of the announcement that Pixmantec was gobbled up by Adobe, Eric Hyman at Bibble Labs offers a USD30 discount to RawShooter Premium owners to move to Bibble Pro 4.8. The limited time offer is only good through the month of July 2006.

Posted by covey22 at 5:41 PM | Comments

FedeoJune 27, 2006

Intel-based Macs Left In The Cold on Capture

A Technical Note on Nikon USA's Digital Knowledgebase outlines some of the compatibility issues of running programs on the new platform such as Capture or NikonView that were originally written for the Motorola-based Macintoshes. Rob Galbraith offers some insights based on his own field tests. Of interest is the fact that Capture NX, ideally the focus of Nikon's efforts in order to meet a late-summer launch, is not planned to be a Universal Binary at this time.

Posted by covey22 at 3:49 PM | Comments

FedeoJune 26, 2006

Adobe Scoops Up Pixmantec

In a very quiet acquisition, Adobe Systems has acquired Pixmantec, the makers of the popular and lightweight RAWShooter photo conversion software. Of immediate impact to digital shooters is the fact that RAWShooter will be discontinued. The free Essentials version will continue to be marketed and made available until Lightroom leaves beta state. RAWShooter users will then be offered an upgrade path to Adobe's products.

Posted by covey22 at 3:38 PM | Comments

FedeoJune 23, 2006

Bibble Version 4.8-- Lens correction and B&W conversion

Bibble Labs has today announced the release of version 4.8 of their RAW conversion software, Bibble Pro and Bibble Lite. Major additions inlude a new Lens Correction module and a B&W/Spot color module. Bibble 4.8 also adds support for the Fuji FinePix S3 DSLR and is now available as a "Universal Binary" for Intel Macintosh users.

Bibble 4.8 is available as a free update to all current Bibble owners from www.bibblelabs.com

Posted by drjay32 at 4:03 PM | Comments

FedeoJune 22, 2006

Aperture 1.1.2 Update Released

Apple has released a 1.1.2 update to it's Aperture workflow program. The update details are a bit slim:

Aperture 1.1.2 addresses issues related to overall reliability and performance. This update is recommended for all Aperture users.

Posted by covey22 at 2:58 AM | Comments

FedeoJune 14, 2006

Adobe Releases Beta 3 of Lightroom

Adobe has released a third beta of the Lightroom workflow program. This version features improved control over file export size and resolution, metadata selection with print output and RGB value readouts as well as support for over 120 RAW formats.

Posted by covey22 at 6:48 PM | Comments

FedeoJune 1, 2006

Nikon Software Roundup: June 2006

In the wake of the D2Xs reveal, Nikon also announced the new stand-alone Camera Control Pro module and the Image Authentication software that verifies photo integrity for forensics purposes. Finally, there's more buzz on Capture NX including price and availability.

Posted by covey22 at 5:30 PM | Comments

FedeoMay 31, 2006

Nikon Capture NX Beta Previews

Nikonians are anxious to know what will Nikon Capture NX software will be.
Our members indicate that some answers could be found here in regard to the Beta version, apparently with good news for non-Nikon users too. ADDITIONAL UPDATE: Imaging Resource also has a detailed first look at the new program.

Posted by jrp at 10:10 AM | Comments

FedeoMay 26, 2006

Adobe Lightroom Beta Download

The Adobe Lightroom Beta for Macintosh OS X 10.4.3 and greater is available from Adobe. The Windows Beta should be available soon.

Posted by bgs at 3:06 AM | Comments

FedeoMay 16, 2006

Adobe releases update 9.0.1 for Photoshop CS2

Adobe has released a free update to their pro image editing program, Photoshop CS2.
The current update is available free for Windows and Macintosh versions of the program.

www.adobe.com/support/downloads/new.jsp

According to Adobe's website, the 9.0.1 updater offers a number of fixes and improvements.

The most significant fixes in the 9.0.1 release include the following:

*Photoshop no longer hangs for several seconds when using painting tools with quick strokes.
*A runtime error that could appear when mousing over a high-res document with the Brush tool has been fixed.
*Documents containing a large number of text layers now open more quickly.
*Problems related to palettes (slow redraw, palettes go white, possible crash) have been addressed.
*TIFF files from certain scanners can now be opened correctly.
*After editing an image in Photoshop CS2 via the TouchUp tool in Adobe Acrobat software, the image no longer gets repositioned.
*XMP metadata from AI and PDF files is now retained in Photoshop.
*Slow performance when toggling layer visibility has been fixed.
*Info palette numbers are now displayed and updated when moving a curve point in Curves via the cursor keys.
*Problems opening certain TIFF and PSB files greater than 2GB have been resolved.
*The Merge to HDR command now functions properly when using high-ASCII characters in user login.

Posted by drjay32 at 4:52 PM | Comments

Capture NX Preview at Digitalreview.ca

Digitalreview.ca has a great preview of the upcoming Capture NX software, including two sample "before-after" segments showing off the newest features of Nikon's workflow program.

Posted by covey22 at 4:30 PM | Comments

FedeoMay 11, 2006

PrintFIX PRO Color Management Suite gains TIPA honors

Professional photographers have been watching the results of the recent Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) awards, which have already recognized Nikon's D50, D200 and the new 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor We can now add the ColorVision PrintFIX PRO Suite to our list of those to be congratulated.

The TIPA awards, coming from an independent association of 31 of the leading photo magazines in Europe, are often referred to as the "Oscars" of the photo industry.
The cameras and lenses (much like the actors and actresses in a film) get the most attention, and it takes time to give proper credit to the technical winners, which in this case includes ColorVision, Datacolor's Digital Imaging Unit, who received the TIPA award for "Best Color Management System in Europe" with their PrintFIX PRO Suite.
The Suite is used by industry professionals to "combine industrial color technology with user-friendly software in order to ensure optimal color safety in the digital darkroom" says a ColorVision press release.
"Datacolor 1005, a high-precision LED Spectro Colorimeter, is used to identify the exact color values of a print in the L*a*b color space, which gets converted to an XML file for further processing. The PrintFIX PRO software then generates the profile in RGB mode, taking into account a number of factors, such as printer settings, paper type, and ink."
Professional Nikonians will want to check Datacolor's Web-Site at www.colorvision.com to see how this solution could fit into their workflow.

Posted by flashdeadline at 4:34 PM | Comments

FedeoMay 8, 2006

dpmac.com's Lightroom and CS2 Tutorials

George Mann hosts a series of tutorials on digital photography workflow at dpmac.com. A new chapter will be posted daily from 01-May to 31-July 2006 and will be focused on the use of Adobe Lightroom Beta and Photoshop CS2. At the end of the period, the chapters will be consolidated into a single DVD.

Posted by covey22 at 3:23 PM | Comments

FedeoMay 5, 2006

Apple Fires Back on Aperture Team Departure

If proof of the 1.1.1 upgrade wasn't enough, Apple has responded to recent rumors that the Aperture development team had been released.

"The reports of Apple reducing their commitment to Aperture are totally false," Kirk Paulsen, Apple’s Senior Director Pro Applications Marketing, told Macworld. "In fact, we've got more people working on Aperture right now than ever before."

Posted by covey22 at 10:06 PM | Comments

Aperture Version 1.1.1 Released

Apple has updated it's Aperture workflow program to version 1.1.1.

This update addresses several issues related to performance, stability, color correction, and display compatibility and is recommended for all Aperture users.

Prior to upgrading, you must be running Mac OS X 10.46 and Aperture 1.1.

Posted by covey22 at 4:59 PM | Comments

FedeoApril 28, 2006

DxO earning imaging professional praise and awards

The 2006 Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) awards have singled out DxO Optics Pro 3.5 as "Best Photo Software."

TIPA awards are regarded by the whole photo industry as the equivalent of the "Oscars," and it's remarkable that DxO Optics Pro could have won this award less than two years after its commercial launch. TIPA is an association of 31 photo magazines from 12 countries.

DxO Optics Pro has also recently won an award from the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP), and was awarded the Digital Focus "Innovation Award" at PMA 2006.

Nikonians member Neil van Niekerk has published his review, available in our Nikonians Resources library.

Learn more from the DxO site at: www.dxo.com

Posted by flashdeadline at 2:00 PM | Comments

FedeoApril 26, 2006

2006 RAW Survey: Initial Results Released

The initial results from the 2006 RAW Survey have now been released. Based on the feedback from over 19,000 photographers representing the professional and enthusiast segments of the industry, the results are still being analyzed and the report will be released in chapters over the course of the week beginning April 25th, 2006.

Posted by covey22 at 8:05 PM | Comments

FedeoApril 18, 2006

Adobe Offers up DNG SDK

Macworld reports that Adobe is now offering a DNG Software Development Kit (SDK) for third-party firms to allow reading, writing and conversion to the proposed industry format.

Posted by covey22 at 9:32 PM | Comments

FedeoApril 13, 2006

Aperture Updated With Intel, D200 Support

Aperture's 1.1 version is now compatible with Intel-based Macintosh hardware, and introduces enhanced RAW Fine Tuning and export controls, as well as Nikon D200 and Canon 30D file support. Apple has also cut the price by USD200; the program will now retail at USD299 and previous buyers are eligible for a rebate coupon that can be used at the Apple Online Store..

Posted by covey22 at 9:21 PM | Comments

FedeoApril 4, 2006

Kodak Gallery Ad Starring Your Photos

Kodak has launched a free tool allowing photographers to insert up to five of their favorite photos and view them in the well-known TV spot "Kodak Gallery" commercial. The ad can be shared via e-mail and seen for up to 30 days.

Posted by covey22 at 6:16 PM | Comments

FedeoApril 1, 2006

DxO Optics Pro 3.5 Review

Professional and advanced amateur photographers are praising a new computer software release that acts as a customized digital enhancer.

Nikonians are now sharing a detailed hands-on review of this latest offering from DxO Labs.
The Paris-based software company, specializing in digital image enhancement technologies recently unveiled DxO Optics Pro version 3.5, and Nikonian Neil van Niekerk has been testing it with images captured under a variety of professional shooting conditions.

His review, now posted in the Nikonians Resources library provides a step-by-step description of the software's ability to match specific camera and lens data with pre-set algorithms to maximize the digital yield from each frame with a few keystrokes.
The DxO Optics Pro Software acts like a virtual optometrist, correcting minor lens and camera deficiencies in even the most expensive and complex systems.
The "corrections" are made possible because the DxO developers have the technology to prove what professional photographers have known for decades. No lens or camera combination will ever be "perfect."
In his review, van Niekerk quickly points out the DxO software, which also corrects color shifts and light level challenges, is not a replacement for industry standard photo preparation software like Adobe PhotoShop or Nikon's Capture Editor.
"Even where some corrections are available in Photoshop, such as correction of chromatic aberration - you'd still have to manually do it by checking the image," he writes.
"DxO Optics Pro does it automatically for you depending on various factors such as the specific lens, the focal length it was zoomed to, and the focusing distance. The wizards at DxO Labs did your homework for you."
As a professional wedding and studio photographer shooting with both Nikon and Canon digital single lens reflex cameras and an assortment of lenses, van Niekerk heartily recommends the DxO Optics Pro as a "remarkable tool for the digital photographer."

DxO Optics Pro v. 3.5 at a glance:
- Nikon cameras currently supported: Coolpix 8800, D50, D2H, D2X, D100, D200, D70s and D70
- It runs on both Mac and Windows platforms, and works on raw or jpg image.
- There are three modes of operation: fully automatic, key controls and expert controls
- Using expert controls you can fine tune: Distortion, Chromatic Aberration, Vignetting, Lighting, Noise, Colour & Exposure (which contains WB / exposure / Curves / Hue / Saturation / Lightness controls), Image Information (which shows the Exif Data), Output Settings (which controls output file format and colour space), Sharpening and the Histogram.

Learn more from the DxO site at: www.dxo.com

Posted by flashdeadline at 5:40 PM | Comments

FedeoMarch 1, 2006

AlienSkin Exposure and Tutorials

The industry reviews are beginning to show up on Exposure and it looks to be a hit. AlienSkin's plug-in helps the digital photographer bring back the look of specific film stocks and exposure characteristics. And their forum has started hosting several tutorials, such as this B&W conversion.

Posted by covey22 at 8:44 PM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 27, 2006

PMA Day 1: Software Roundup

It's been a blitz of updates and new product announcements in Orlando, so here's a quick roundup of the latest in software and program developments.

OnOneSoftware has bundled both Genuine Fractals 4.1 and Nik Sharpener 2.0 for a significant savings - up to 44% if purchased separately.

In a release timed for the show, word from the UK indicates that a Mac OSX 10 version of Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0 will be available in early March.

Adobe has teamed up with Iron Mountain to securely and transparently back up digital photo files from within Photoshop Elements, Bridge and Album. As long as the PC is connected to the Internet, Iron Mountain's DataProtector agent will send changed or designated files to IM's datacenters for storage and archival. A secure retrieval method is also available. This sounds like a great solution!

Lexar continues to make inroads with it's ActiveMemory system - new integration points include auto-processing of photos while they're being downloaded into Corel's PSP 9, and Lexar's SmartDownload will plug into Adobe CS2 Bridge for simultaneous card downloads from multiple readers and merging of IPTC data.

Pixmantec announces RawShooters Essentials 2006 as a full-featured and - characterized as "free forever" - download. In addition, current owners of the Premium version can update to Premium 2006 v1.02 and Color Engine 1.1 for no charge.

And finally, DxO Optics has announced that their Pro Starter Edition, or the so-called ZLR edition for fixed-lens electronic viewfinder (EVF) digicams, is now available for sale via their electronic storefront. Cameras in this category include models such as the Nikon Coolpix 8800, Sony DSC-H1 and Canon PowerShot Pro S2 IS.

Posted by covey22 at 6:21 PM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 26, 2006

Bibble 4.6 with Noise Ninja Available

Our first news from PMA in Orlando - Bibble Labs has announced the immediate availability of Bibble Pro 4.6 which features an integrated version of the popular Noise Ninja reduction tool from Picture Code LLC and native compatibility for the newest Intel-based Macintosh personal computers.

Posted by covey22 at 6:51 AM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 17, 2006

Bibble Collaborations

Bibble has been busy making strategic collaborations with some key industry players. First up is Kodak - the firms are swapping notable technology components; Kodak will give Bibble it's color management module and ICC input API, and will receive in return Bibble's RAW conversion engine. Next up, Bibble has struck a deal with Picturecode for future releases of the RAW converter/editor to feature fully integrated versions of the Noise Ninja NR plug-in.

Posted by covey22 at 10:53 PM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 15, 2006

Lightroom Beta 2 with Intel Mac Support

Adobe and Macromedia continue to add more features to their Lightroom Workflow Suite, including support for the latest Intel-based Macintoshes, crop and straighten tools, the ability to add music to slideshows and more.

Posted by covey22 at 2:08 AM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 10, 2006

Adobe Hosts Free Photoshop Elements Seminars

For our members in the U.S., Adobe is hosting free Photoshop Elements seminars in a variety of cities over the next several months. Led by editors and contributors to Photoshop Elements Techniques, the official magazine for PSE, you'll learn ways to take control of your photos and get professional-looking results. As a bonus, there will also be free giveaways! For more information and to register, see the official site page.

Posted by covey22 at 3:40 PM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 6, 2006

Adobe Camera RAW 3.3 with D200 Camera Support

The Photoshop Camera Raw plug-in became the latest must-have tool for advance amateurs and professional digital photographers when it was released in February 2003. This powerful plug-in has been updated to support more cameras and includes more features. Available as part of Adobe Photoshop CS2, the news is that Adobe has now posted the final (non-beta) Camera RAW 3.3 plug-in with full official support for the Nikon D200.
For instructions and download visit Adobe

Posted by jrp at 10:41 PM | Comments

DxO Optics 3.5 now with D200 Support

DxO Optics Pro image enhancement suite now supports the Nikon D200 and the 18-200 AF-S DX VR. Download the 3.5 version here.

Posted by covey22 at 3:38 AM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 3, 2006

Submit Your Images to Improve Aperture

In a ongoing effort to improve and refine the handling of RAW images in the Mac OS, Apple is interested in working with a broad range of sample images from professional photographers. If you have images that you feel exemplify particular aspects of RAW handling that require improvement, you can submit these to Apple for testing and evaluation purposes. Please be assured that any image content you send us will be used for internal testing purposes only. None of these images will be distributed to the public, used in any marketing capacity whatsoever, or included in public demos. They will be used exclusively to test and evaluate RAW image processing, with the goal of delivering improved RAW support for your camera in the future."

If you would like to submit a set of sample images, here is what we would like to receive for each image:

1. The original, unmodified RAW image. Please specify the camera model used to create the image.

2. A 16-bit TIFF version of the image created with Aperture using all default settings (no adjustments, no Auto Exposure or Auto Levels)

3. A 16-bit TIFF version of the image created with the RAW decoder of your choice, also using default settings. If using the Adobe Camera Raw plug-in, make sure all the "Auto" checkboxes have been turned off. (EDITOR'S NOTE: When using Adobe Camera RAW, many people forget to click the "details" setting and turn OFF Color Noise Reduction and Sharpness, which are found under the Details tab, in order to turn off all ACR auto-adjustments. This has lead to a lot of the misc-comparison problems, so please be sure to turn these off before submitting images to Apple.)

4. Any notes or commentary you wish to provide regarding whatever weaknesses or strengths you see in the decode provided by Apple's software. When possible, point to specific areas in each image that you would like us to examine. Also include information about the camera, computer, and software used to create the image.

Please put all related files together into a single folder, then upload via FTP to the following server:

FTP Site: privftp.apple.com
username: proappcustomer
password: media

After posting your files to the server, please send an email to aperturefeedback@group.apple.com to notify us that the files are available.

(NOTE: For security reasons, the above FTP site is set up as a drop box with write-only access, so other users can not view or download the images.)

Thanks for working with Apple. With ongoing feedback from the pro photo community, we look forward to continually improving the quality of our image handling in the future.

Posted by covey22 at 3:11 PM | Comments

FedeoFebruary 1, 2006

Software Vendor DxO Labs with a 10.6mln Euro Finance Round

French software vendor DxO Labs, a developer of image processing technologies and applications, announced the closing of a 10.6 million Euro (12.83 million USD) round of funding. Apax Partners France leads the new investment, joining investors Societe Generale Asset Management, SPEF Venture, Thales Ventures/ACE Management, CSK Venture Capital and Hitachi Venture.

More info at DxO's site

Posted by bgs at 8:26 AM | Comments

FedeoJanuary 31, 2006

Photoshelter announces "Seamless Customization"

BitShelter LLC has announced the addition of the "Seamless Customization Option" to PhotoShelter (www.PhotoShelter.com), their professional, online image archiving service and marketplace.

From PhotoShelter's Press Release:

The new product, developed for photographers who maintain their own
websites, makes it easy for PhotoShelter subscribers to add a searchable
e-commerce-enabled archive to their website while matching its
look-and-feel.

By using special PhotoShelter "widget" tags inserted into a website's
standard HTML code, the PhotoShelter Seamless Customization Option is able
to fit into nearly any website design. Photographers with basic HTML skills
are able to complete the customization process themselves. Customization
setup assistance is also available from PhotoShelter for an hourly fee.

Examples of The Seamless Customization Option at work, can be viewed at:
http://www.photoshelter.com/tour/?c=customize

Posted by drjay32 at 3:44 PM | Comments

FedeoJanuary 24, 2006

Alien Skin's Exposure Film Effects

Plug-in maker Alien Skin has released their latest creation called Exposure. The newest addition is a film emulator, which allows you to simulate current and discontinued film stock like Velvia or even darkroom techniques like cross-processing.

Posted by covey22 at 4:29 PM | Comments

FedeoJanuary 20, 2006

Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 Beta with D200 Support

Members in our forums report the availability of Adobe Camera RAW 3.3 Beta which supports the D200.

Posted by covey22 at 3:48 AM | Comments

FedeoJanuary 12, 2006

Apple releases iLife '06

Apple has updated it's iLife multimedia software suite - of interest to shutterbugs are new features in iPhoto 6, such as support for up to a quarter-million shots and PhotoCasting - a new way to immediately share your photos via .Mac.

Posted by covey22 at 4:45 PM | Comments

FedeoJanuary 9, 2006

Lightroom: Adobe's Aperture Killer?

In a stunning move on the opening day of Macworld, Adobe unveiled their new RAW Workflow application called Lightroom. While paralleling many of Aperture's features, Adobe claims that their workflow app will support more RAW camera formats than it's competitor; emphasizing DNG support which is now a native file format in Hasselblad's H2D DSLR and Leica's upcoming Digital-Modul-R back. Lightroom apparently has less strenuous requirements than Aperture - observers of the demo noted the new arrival was running smoothly on a Powerbook G4. A beta of the application (Macintosh only) is available for download. Adobe will be providing PC support, but only under the new Windows Vista Operating System.

Posted by covey22 at 3:04 PM | Comments

FedeoDecember 22, 2005

DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition

DxO Labs, Boulogne, France, announces DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition is on sale via the company's e-store. DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition will be available through selected retailers starting late in January 2006.

Specifically designed for advanced digicams, also known as "ZLR", "SuperZoom" or "Bridge" cameras, DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition supports digital cameras including: Sony DSC-H1, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1, Canon PowerShot Pro S2 IS, Kodak P850, Olympus SP-500, Nikon Coolpix 8800, Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6, Panasonic DMC-FZ30, Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2, Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200, and Sony F-828. More camera support will be added in the future.

DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition can be thought of as a "camera upgrade." The software processes JPEG images and incorporates the same image enhancement technologies as DxO Optics Pro Standard and DxO Optics Pro Elite editions.

DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition is available for Windows and Macintosh. DxO Optics Pro Starter Edition is priced at $79 (excluding VAT and sales taxes).

Posted by covey22 at 5:21 PM | Comments

FedeoDecember 19, 2005

Microsoft Updates RAW Image Viewer and Thumbnailer

Microsoft has updated their RAW Image Viewer and Thumbnailer to version 1.0 (Build 50), usable in Windows XP. For Nikonians, the utility now supports the newer cameras like the D50, and addresses the TIFF file-locking issue. D200 support is not specifically addressed in the documentation.

Posted by covey22 at 2:37 PM | Comments

FedeoDecember 13, 2005

Digital Outback Photo - The Aperture Review

Digital Outback Photo has posted a review on Apple's new Aperture suite. The results appear to be rather mixed.

You are well advised to test Aperture thoroughly before embedding your images into the (rather) closed Aperture environment. Maintaining some projects inside and others outside of Aperture may be a good idea for some time.

Posted by covey22 at 4:40 PM | Comments

FedeoDecember 12, 2005

Capture One 3.73 Now Supports Native Nikon WB

Capture One 3.7.3 LE and Pro now support native Nikon White-Balance settings (pre-defined, auto and custom). This includes cameras like the Nikon D2Hs, D2X and D50. Download the upgrade here.

Posted by covey22 at 4:30 PM | Comments

FedeoDecember 6, 2005

Adobe Buys Macromedia; Creates Product Bundles

Adobe has completed it's acquisition of Macromedia, the well-known maker of content delivery methods. As a result, Adobe has created some very attractive bundles of both companies' products; such as Creative Suite 2 with Professional Flash 8.

Posted by covey22 at 4:04 PM | Comments

FedeoNovember 25, 2005

DxO Optics Now at Version 3.5

NEW DXO OPTICS PRO V3.5 SOFTWARE NOW AVAILABLE IN STORES AND ONLINE

Enhanced optical correction possibilities and greater processing speed are the hallmarks of this free new upgrade which also adds support for the Canon EOS 5D

New York, NY DxO Labs announced today that DxO Optics Pro v3.5 Digital SLR and lens automatic image quality enhancement software is available for download at the company's e-store (http://store.dxo.com) and via selected resellers.

DxO Optics Pro v3.5 incorporates DxO Optics Engine v2, a more powerful edition of DxO Labs' award-winning optical correction engine extending the software's capabilities for automatically removing unwanted color fringes including "purple fringing"; preserving greater image detail through improvements to DxO’s Lens Softness removal capabilities; as well as preserving up to 40% more image area when eliminating geometric distortion. Other improvements include an enhanced user interface as well as dramatically increased batch processing speed (by up to 100%) on multi-processor computers.

"The quality of the corrections and the final results look better than ever with this new version," said Luc Marin, vice president of the Photography Business Unit at DxO Labs.

DxO Optics Pro v3.5 Elite Edition now also supports the new, full-frame, Canon EOS 5D and an initial selection of lenses.

Upgrading to DxO Optics Pro v3.5 is free for registered users of DxO Optics Pro v3.0 Standard or Elite editions. Users of DxO Optics Pro v3.5 continue to benefit from unrestricted access to all DxO Lens Modules for a given set of supported camera bodies.

Availability and pricing
DxO Optics Pro v3.5 is available on both Windows (2000 and XP) and Macintosh (OS X 10.3 and above).
* DxO Optics Pro v3.5 Standard Edition is for use with advanced amateur Digital SLRs including unrestricted access to DxO Lens Modules $149
* DxO Optics Pro v3.5 Elite Edition supports professional Digital SLRs including unrestricted access to DxO Lens Modules $299

Quoted prices in U.S. dollars and Euros are excluding VAT/Sales Tax. Prices in British pounds are inclusive of 17.5% VAT. Full System requirements can be found on http://www.dxo.com.

About DxO Labs and its DxO Technology
DxO Labs is a software company developing image generation and enhancement technologies. We provide reliable off-the-shelf solutions for serious amateurs and professional photographers, photography journalists and experts as well as companies in the imaging business such as digital camera or cameraphone vendors, mobile operators, and printing or photofinishing professionals. The company's patented DxO technologies, the DxO Technology Foundations, are the result of state-of-the-art academic mathematical research. The DxO Technology Foundations comprise a set of software components to generate images or correct major imaging defects, such as color, contrast, blur, various optics faults, JPEG artifacts, etc.

For more information, visit DxO Labs online at http://www.dxo.com.

Posted by covey22 at 6:47 PM | Comments

FedeoNovember 22, 2005

Corel Adds Support for Digital Camera Raw in Corel(R) Photo Album(TM) 6.0

Consumers Can Now Manage Digital Camera Raw Files with the Software They Love

OTTAWA(BUSINESS WIRE) Nov. 22, 2005 Corel Corporation today announced a major enhancement to its popular photo management system, Corel(R) Photo Album(TM) 6, that will enable consumers to easily work with digital camera raw file formats. With support for more than 40 digital camera raw file formats, Corel Photo Album 6 enables photographers to easily open, enhance, process and convert images into the highest quality photos.

Functioning as a digital negative, digital camera raw file formats are gaining popularity among photo enthusiasts and professional photographers who want to preserve their digital image's authenticity. As consumers are seeking more and more ways to produce higher quality photos, they are discovering that the digital camera raw file format provides them with greater detail, true-to-life color and increased control over their image data. Now with Corel Photo Album 6 joining Corel(R) Paint Shop Pro(R) X in support of digital camera raw file formats, photographers have an easy-to-use platform for downloading, organizing, sharing, editing and protecting this valuable photo format.

With digital camera raw file support, Corel Photo Album 6 customers can now:

* Detect digital camera raw images instantly
* Seamlessly download digital camera raw images from the camera to the computer
* Easily preview digital camera raw formats on their cameras
* Manage and organize digital camera raw image formats by time and date, just like they would any other image
* Open and make edits to the digital camera raw file, then save it as a JPG
* Use these files in slideshows, VCD, printed photo projects and web pages
* Quickly e-mail and share digital camera raw file formats with others

"As the digital photography market evolves, photo enthusiasts and professional photographers are seeking more sophisticated ways to maximize the richness and detail inherent in the photos they take," said Blaine Mathieu, General Manager, Digital Imaging at Corel. "By offering our customers digital camera raw file support, we are enabling them to have more control over the photos they take and more choices in how they use Photo Album to manage, store and produce high quality images."

Pricing and Availability

Corel Photo Album 6 - Deluxe Edition is available for a suggested retail price of $49 US and is available from major retailers and resellers across North America including Amazon, PC Mall, Dell.com, Atomic Park, STAPLES Business Depot, Office Depot, CDW, PC Connection, SHI and Software Spectrum. Existing Corel Photo Album 6 users can download the digital camera raw file format update at www.corel.com.

About Corel Corporation

Corel Corporation provides innovative software solutions that help millions of value-conscious businesses and consumers in over 75 countries improve their productivity. The Company is renowned for its powerful software portfolio that combines innovative photo editing and graphics creation, vector illustration and technical-graphics applications along with office and personal productivity solutions. Corel's flagship products include the CorelDRAW(R) Graphics Suite, the WordPerfect(R) Office Suite, the Corel(R) Painter(TM) Natural-Media(R) painting and illustration software and the Paint Shop(TM) Family of digital photography and image editing software. Founded in 1985, Corel is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada. For more information, please visit www.corel.com.

(C)2005 Corel Corporation. All rights reserved. Corel, CorelDRAW, Natural-Media, Painter, Paint Shop, Paint Shop Pro, Photo Album, WordPerfect and the Corel logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Corel Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. All other product, font and company names and logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Posted by covey22 at 10:52 PM | Comments

FedeoNovember 21, 2005

Adobe Posts Bridge 1.03 Update

Adobe has released a 1.03 update to it's Bridge software component. No readme, but the manufacturer comments "improved product reliability." The update is available in both Mac and Windows versions.

Posted by covey22 at 4:18 PM | Comments

FedeoNovember 18, 2005

PDN Gets Hands-On With Aperture

PDN's David Schloss spends a day with Apple looking over the new Aperture RAW Workflow solution. While not a complete hands-on review, Schloss details some interesting points about the new program that separates the hype from the reality.

Posted by covey22 at 4:43 PM | Comments

FedeoNovember 16, 2005

RawShooter Color Engine Announced

Pixmantec has unveiled their latest creation - RawShooter Color Engine; a color profiling plug-in designed for use with RawShooter Premium. Unlike other color profiling systems, this program is designed specifically to certain DSLR makes. Nikonians will be pleased to know that the plug-in supports all Nikon DSLR models with the exception of the D1/H/X series.

Posted by covey22 at 12:45 AM | Comments

FedeoNovember 11, 2005

Adobe Posts Camera Raw 3.3 Update

Adobe has posted the latest versions of Camera Raw 3.3 in Beta form. The plug-in is available in Windows and Macintosh versions.

Posted by covey22 at 7:20 PM | Comments

FedeoNovember 3, 2005

Rawshooter Premium - The Petteri Sulonen Field Report

Independent columnist and photographer Petteri Sulonen of Finland has posted a field report of the latest version of RawShooter from Pixmantec.

Posted by covey22 at 5:16 PM | Comments

FedeoOctober 31, 2005

Pixmantec Announces RawShooter Premium 2006

Copenhagen, October 28th 2005: Danish digital imaging software specialists Pixmantec announce the release of the latest addition to their Photographers’ Toolbox applications for the camera RAW format, RawShooter | premium 2006. Building on the incredible success of the FREE RawShooter | essentials 2005 product (now with several hundred thousand copies installed worldwide), RawShooter | premium 2006 provides unsurpassed RAW workflow functionality and professional image quality at an unbeatable competitive price. In addition to a state of the art feature set, RawShooter | premium 2006 adds camera RAW support for several new DSLRs including the Canon EOS 5D and Canon EOS 1D II N.

More information can be found at Pixmantec.

Posted by covey22 at 4:21 AM | Comments