Nikon Release Two High Performance Wide Angle Lenses

The Ultra-Wide 16-35mm f/4 VR and Ultra-Fast 24mm f/1.4 Lenses Provide Photographers With New Perspectives and Creative Versatility

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Feb. 8, 2010) – Nikon Inc. today announced two new lenses for professional and enthusiast photographers that epitomize NIKKOR leadership in optical excellence. The highly anticipated AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED lens is engineered to meet the demand for an ultra-fast professional lens for wide angle applications, while the AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR offers Nikon’s widest FX-format focal range with VR, offering additional versatility to a broad range of photographers.
“The 16-35mm f/4 VR and 24mm f/1.4 are two new lenses designed to address the needs of an ever-expanding number of Nikon FX-format photographers, delivering dramatic perspectives, amazing clarity, contrast and color when capturing stills or HD video,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “Customers that choose these new lenses will experience excellent image quality and sturdy handling, which is made possible through our commitment to excellence and expert NIKKOR engineering.”
World renowned NIKKOR technologies play an essential role in the design of these two new lenses, and both feature Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology for quiet, fast and accurate autofocus performance. The optical construction of both lenses also utilizes precision Nikon ED glass elements along with multiple aspherical elements to suppress chromatic aberrations resulting in sharp, high contrast images. Additionally, Nikon’s proprietary Nano-Crystal Coat minimizes instances of internal “ghosting” and flaring, further ensuring exceptional image integrity.

The 24mm f/1.4G ED Lens
Perhaps one of the most hotly anticipated lenses in recent memory, the new AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED lens blends a natural yet versatile 24mm perspective with an ultra-fast f/1.4 aperture to expand an existing collection of well over 60 NIKKOR interchangeable lenses. The f/1.4 maximum aperture allows photographers to shoot handheld in low light and provides dramatic separation between subject and a softened background. In a wide variety of photographic situations, both FX and DX-format shooters will enjoy the benefits of extra-bright f/1.4 viewing, superb image quality and the dramatic perspectives afforded by a picture angle of 84 degrees (61 degrees when mounted on a DX-format body).

The 16-35mm f/4 VR Lens Brings a New Perspective to VR
The new AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR lens is an ideal lens for enthusiasts and professionals craving a constant maximum aperture and ultra-wide angle zoom versatility with the benefits of Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) II image stabilization. As the widest FX-format NIKKOR zoom lens with VR, users can realize the ability to shoot up to four shutter speeds slower than otherwise possible, expanding low light shooting opportunities and contributing to dramatically sharper handheld photography and video capture. Nikon VR II image stabilization technology is engineered specifically for and optimized to function most effectively for each lens, ensuring optimum performance. Whether joining the growing ranks of FX-format photographers or using the Nikon DX-format, photographers will appreciate the perspectives possible when shooting architecture, interiors, landscapes and more.

Pricing and Availability
The versatile, wide angle AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is scheduled to be available in late February 2010 at Nikon Authorized Dealers with an estimated selling price of $1259.95*. The ultra-fast AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4 G ED lens will be available in late March 2010 for estimated selling price of $2199.95*. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

Amazing Turnout for Rick Sammon's Seminar This Past Sunday!

Despite being postponed one day due to the weather forecasts, this past Sunday's "Exploring Digital Imaging" seminar with Canon Explorer of Light Rick Sammon had the largest turnout we've seen in the Unique University!  It was a busy day, and we'd like to thank Rick Sammon, Canon's Rick Berk and Matt Thompson, and everyone for making the effort to attend! To see more photos from the event, please visit the Unique Photo Flickr!  If you have your own photos, please be sure to join the Unique Photo Flickr Group and share them!

Photos courtesy of Mike Zawadzki and Robert Huber

Canon: New Canon Rebel T2i Digital SLR Takes Aspiring Photographers Beyond the Still with Advanced Video Features

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., February 8, 2010 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today introduced the new flagship model for the Company's highly popular Rebel DSLR line: the Canon EOS Rebel T2i Digital SLR camera. Today's photo enthusiast is looking for a camera that will grow with them as they learn, and that is a perfect description of the new EOS Rebel T2i Digital SLR camera. Retaining all of the traditional characteristics that have made the EOS Rebel series beloved by entry-level photographers and an industry best-seller, the new Rebel T2i succeeds in bridging the gap between an entry-level camera and a true pro-sumer camera.

The Rebel T2i Digital SLR camera includes a variety of new features for photographic assignments as varied as grabbing that action shot from the sidelines or creating memorable family portraits, including: 3.7 fps shooting, an ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800), a 63-zone Dual Layer Metering System, and Canon's DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor. There are some moments in our lives where video helps capture the moment better than a still image, and the Rebel T2i offers the best of both worlds with Full HD 1080p video as well as 18-megapixel still images. The Rebel T2i DSLR continues Canon's industry-leading trend in Full HD DSLR video capture with manual exposure control, selectable frame rates and a new external microphone input. There is also a new feature for standard definition recording, Movie Crop, which provides an approximate 7x additional zoom with no loss of image quality when shooting SD quality video.

"There is no question that HD video is the biggest trend in DSLR technology and because of this we are seeing the creativity of still photographers transferring to the moving image. Still photographers are using the various lenses and accessories they are already familiar with to create amazing video footage," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. "Taking that HD video quality and putting it in the hands of entry-level photographers with cameras like our new EOS Rebel T2i, we are seeing a new generation of creative digital artists emerge."

Lights, Rebel, Action – EOS HD Video
Canon's EOS HD video capture has helped spark a major movement in digital imaging, empowering still photographers with the ability to experiment, learn and capture stunning high-definition video through a variety of creative lenses. Continuing this imaging revolution, the new EOS Rebel T2i puts entry-level photographers on the frontline equipped with all the latest EOS HD video features including full HD video at 1920x1080 resolution, selectable frame rates, full manual exposure control and the visual options of interchangeable lenses. Manual video exposure control provides novice filmmakers with the image control they are accustomed to in a still camera, all while shooting professional-level cinematic video. Professional photographers utilize creative lighting, adjustable depth-of-field and a variety of lenses to create powerful still images and video footage, and these are exactly the tools that the new Rebel T2i gives to budding photo and video enthusiasts. Adding a new professional-level feature for EOS cameras, the Rebel T2i includes an Auto ISO function that works in all Creative Zone exposure modes including Manual where users can set a limit to the highest ISO the camera will use, enabling them to retain the lighting and look they desire for a scene. By setting an Auto ISO range, videographers can retain dark shadow areas and avoid blowing out highlight areas in a scene while still retaining the benefit of automatic ISO adjustments. The Rebel T2i DSLR captures video in both NTSC (National Television System Committee) and PAL (Phase Altering Line) standards at selectable frame rates including Full HD 1920 x 1080 at 30 (29.97), 25 or 24 (23.976) fps, and HD 1280 x 720 or Standard Definition 640 x 480 quality video, at 60 (59.94) or 50 fps.

To read the entire press release, please click here.

Canon: Four New Additions to PowerShot Digital Camera Lineup

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., February 8, 2010 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the addition of four new PowerShot Digital cameras, the PowerShot SX210 IS, PowerShot SD3500 IS, PowerShot SD1400 IS and PowerShot SD1300 IS, offering today's photographer a compelling blend of cutting-edge photo capture technology and superior styling. The new PowerShot cameras offer increased shooting flexibility in a number of settings through advancements to the Smart Auto mode while offering greater photo personalization and enhanced creativity with new Scene Modes and Image effects. The addition of Fish-eye and Miniature Effect modes help photographers add a creative element or lend a humorous look and feel when capturing images of their favorite household pet or landscape scene.

From untimely blinks and awkward smirks to hard to shoot back-lit situations, the compact PowerShot SX210 IS, PowerShot SD3500 IS and PowerShot SD1400 IS cameras offer a variety of technologies to secure the best pictures under the most challenging conditions. In addition to the Face Detection self-timer, the new Smart Shutter scene mode now has Smile and Wink self-timers where the camera looks for a wink or smile which will act as the trigger and release the camera's shutter.

The advances to Canon's Smart Auto mode increases the number of shooting scenarios where each PowerShot camera can automatically adjust to different lighting or movement levels to obtain the best image possible. In addition, Canon's Smart FE (Flash Exposure) function improves image quality by automatically adding the optimum level of flash illumination, aperture, ISO and shutter speed while the Low Light Mode features a wide ISO range (up to 6400), allowing more light to be captured creating sharper more vivid images and further enhancing the overall quality.

"The new Canon PowerShot Digital cameras are designed for consumers seeking a blend of eye-catching style and advanced image capture technology in a compact, easy-to-use form," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. "Offering a unique blend of features and functionality including new Scene Modes, Smart FE and Smart Shutter, Canon once again brings image-taking and personal photography expression to new levels."

For users interested in expanding beyond still images, three of the four new PowerShot cameras announced today have the ability to shoot 720p High Definition (HD) video offering extraordinary resolution and clarity when capturing moments such as a child's dance recital or the latest trip to the local zoo. Also, the built-in HDMI mini-connector allows play-back of video and photos on an HDTV. With the camera tethered to a computer and the included software, movies can be uploaded directly to YouTube via the Camera Window. To further enhance a users ability to capture images and video, all of the new Canon PowerShot Digital cameras will support the high-spec SDXC memory cards with a maximum storage capacity of two terabytes (TB) in SDA standard.

To read the entire press release, please click here.

Olympus Pen E-P2: A Camera in its own Class

In between digital SLR cameras and point and shoot cameras, there are EVIL cameras.  These cameras don’t want to hurt you or steal your lunch money; EVIL stands for Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens.  What this translates to is a camera that does not have a mirror or optical viewfinder, but does have interchangeable lenses.  EVIL cameras combine the smaller size of a point and shoot camera with the versatility and functionality of a digital SLR camera.  One of the most exciting offerings in this genre is the Olympus E-P2.  An upgrade from the Olympus E-P1, the E-P2 adds a removable electronic viewfinder, faster auto focus, and a few other tweaks and fixes.

Take one look at the E-P2 and you might think this is a classic film camera.  In fact, its design hearkens back to Olympus’ Pen series of film cameras.  Even when holding the camera, it is easy to mistake it for a classic 1980s era rangefinder.  The Olympus E-P2 embodies the epitome of class and style within its small frame.

Shooting with the E-P2 is an absolute pleasure.  I had the camera with me for 4 days in Nashville at the Imaging USA trade show.  I did not want to bring my heavy digital SLR, but I also wanted to avoid a traditional point and shoot camera, since most of my shots would be in low light, and that is where those cameras traditionally suffer most.  The Olympus was the perfect middle ground.  It's small and light enough for me to carry with me everywhere, all day, but has the large sensor and low noise that make for great indoor shots.  The included 14-42mm zoom lens, a 28-84mm equivalent on full frame 35mm, is highly versatile; I rarely found myself wanting for anything more.  This shot was taken inside the resort where the trade show was happening.  Camera settings are indicated in the caption.

Olympus E-P2, Shutter Speed 1/5 sec, Aperture F3.5, ISO2500, 14-42mm lens at 14mm.  No noise reduction applied, basic toning and color adjustments made in Adobe Camera Raw.  Click to download the RAW file.  Thanks to the amazing sensor-based image stabilization in the E-P2, I was able to successfully hand hold this shot at such a slow shutter speed.  Photo by Josh Lehrer

When the camera is not in use, the lens retracts in on itself with a simple twist, making the camera even more compact.  It's important to note that there is another option when purchasing an Olympus E-P2.  For the same price, you can get the camera with a 17mm F2.8 "pancake" lens.  This lens has a very low profile, it is so small that it barely protrudes from the camera at all.  This lens is great for those who want a fixed lens with a fast aperture, and the smallest size possible.

To show how small this camera really in relation to what it can do, I put it side by side against the Canon Rebel XS, a small camera in its own right.  The Olympus is dwarfed by the Canon, even with the Canon 50mm F1.8 lens mounted, which is one of the smallest lenses that Canon makes.

The large screen on the camera makes for a fine shooting experience, especially since the camera lacks any kind of optical viewfinder.  The including electronic viewfinder performs well in normal conditions, but in low light, the viewfinder becomes increasingly grainy and hard to use.  There is no built in flash on this camera, something that at first felt like a major omission.  However, after seeing how well the camera performs in low light, and reminding myself how bad the typical direct flash pictures from a point and shoot look, I realized that the lack of a flash was not a problem at all.  If you really do want a flash, the Olympus FL-14 is a small unit that goes right on the hot shoe of the E-P2.

Image quality of the camera is fantastic; jpegs, normally the weak spot of any camera, look great.  The E-P2 also shoots RAW for those photographers who want full control over their images.  I find myself wanting to take more pictures than usual, just because the camera is such a joy to use.  With its current retail price of $1099, the Olympus E-P2 occupies a peculiar but lonely place in the digital camera market.  It won't take the place of your digital SLR, and it won't fit in your jeans like a small point and shoot, but what it does do is bring the power, speed, and quality from a digital SLR into a small, light weight form factor.  Features and gizmos aside, the Olympus E-P2 is the kind of camera that it is hard to put down, it is so easy to simply throw it over your shoulder and go that there is no excuse not to have it with you all the time.

In the chart below, you'll find test shots from the Olympus E-P2 at a variety of ISO settings, and also the same setup shot with the Canon EOS 7D and the Nikon D300s.  (Please click 'Save As'.)  While these full blown digital SLRs have larger sensors and cost over $500 more, and have the ability to use the full suite of Canon or Nikon lenses, it is remarkable how well the Olympus files compare, even at high ISO settings, usually what is essentially a kit lens.

ISO Setting	Olympus E-P2	Canon EOS 7D	Nikon D300s
200	Photo	Photo	Photo
400	Photo	Photo	Photo
800	Photo	Photo	Photo
1600	Photo	Photo	Photo
2000	Photo	Photo	Photo
2500	Photo	Photo	Photo
3200	Photo	Photo	Photo
4000	Photo	Photo	Photo
5000	Photo	Photo	Photo
6400	Photo	Photo	Photo

Nancy Ori's Workshop Concludes; Students' Photos Coming March 1st to the Unique Gallery!

This past Saturday's last session was a great conclusion to the 4-session-long "Color, Design, and Light" workshop with Nancy Ori, and we hope that you enjoyed it!  We'd like to give a special thanks to Nancy for instructing, as well all who attended and made this workshop such a success!

Nancy will be present in the Unique Gallery on March 1st, from 6 - 8pm, where her students' photographs will be displayed for the opening reception.  There will be hor'dourves and refreshments, so be sure to stop by!

Photos courtesy of Mike Zawadzki

"Betrayed" - A film shot exclusively w/ the Canon 5D Mark II

Unique Photo Shootout participant, and superbly skilled photographer/videographer Robert Caplin, has been involved in filming and producing the short film "Betrayed."  What makes this film so revolutionary is that it was shot with Canon's 5D Mark II digital SLR.

Check out the trailer here:

Betrayed - The Trailer from Robert Caplin on Vimeo.

From the "About" Page at www.betrayedshort.com

Co-written, directed and produced by Joshua Grossberg, senior journalist for E! Online, Betrayed is a 9-minute short that serves as a prelude to his feature-length screenplay, DISAPPEAR, a mystery thriller in the vein of Michael Clayton and LA Confidential.

The film chronicles husband and reporter James Vance who mysteriously disappears, but not before leaving a cryptic video diary leading law enforcement to unravel the crime of his demise.

As one of the first narrative films shot on the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera, Betrayed: the short will mark the beginning of an era of high-quality cost-effective digital filmmaking. What makes the 5D so revolutionary is its ability to beautifully capture high-definition video with natural light with minimal or no artificial aid, allowing for faster, more efficient productions in less time and with less equipment. This intense nine minute thriller will serve as a laudable example of what can be achieved using state-of-the-art technology on a low budget and limited time. 

With the amazing dedication and dexterity of it's cast and crew, Betrayed was filmed over the course of four days in May, 2009, in multiple locations in and around Manhattan, Brooklyn and Fire Island, Long Island . Four Canon 5D Mark II cameras were utilized which enabled the production to cover a lot of ground during that period. Then 2nd Unit photographer Robert Caplin completed pickup shots and a final cut of the film was completed in September.

Sound cool?  I like most of you reading am very interested in the equipment and accessories used in this shoot.  In my next post, I'll have some in-depth information about this to satisfy all the "photo nerds" out there like myself.  In the meantime, check out the trailer above!