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Archive for September, 2008

LightForm Grand Opening Party!

September 30, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

LightForm Grand Opening Party!

Well if you never heard of LightForm your missing out. If you ever have been to any resturant in Canada and wondered where all the cool lighting fixtures come from. How they create mood by the lighting, well enter LightForm.

LightForm having finished there brand new store in Edmonton, AB they had a Grand Opening. As its probably one of the nicest building on 124 St, you clearly can’t miss it. Its all GLASS! Not only is there LightForm, but there is Dwell, Appliance, Soak, and EyeQLaser. If you have never had a chance to visit LightForm and the gang you should head down. As there showrooms full of items to dream of.

But enough of the talk on to the pix!

Click HERE to the gallery 1!
Click HERE to the gallery 2!

hfortysixit x Vincent Laforet – Remix

September 28, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment


hfortysixit x Vincent Laforet – Remix

Well as everyone knows now the video capabilities out the New Canon 5D MKII are incredible. I really do think this is going to change the video industry. I just hope Canon does use this technology in there up coming video cam. Maybe at NAB they are going to show up with new goodies. Anyhoo, the Raw footage that was shot with the Canon 5D MKII was released on the Canon USA website. Since i really wanted to know how good the video was i decide to do a little remix of REVERIE(shot and directed by Vincent Laforet). I hope you enjoy my remix!

If you want to see the orginal REVERIE video click HERE!


Rev-Lite OBD II scanner/GPS tracker/G-force meter in iPhone app!

September 27, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment



Rev-Lite OBD II scanner/GPS tracker/G-force meter in iPhone app!

Well seems like the iPhone apps are getting with time. Rev has just annouced there latest automotive app. Rev is a OBD II/GPS tracker/G-force meter and more in 1 application. Rev lite is what is available at the current moment and its totally free thru iTunes app store. As for the full version of Rev is unknow at the moment, looks promising for things to come!

Built-in Metrics (No special hardware required)

* Lateral and Forward Acceleration: Graph your cornering, braking and acceleration G-forces. (Available in Rev Lite)
* GPS Track: Visual track displays your location and acceleration data – see how you are braking and accelerating around corners. (Available in Rev Lite)

OBD Metrics (Requires OBD-II/WLAN interface hardware)

* Vehicle Speed
* RPM
* Fuel Consumption
* Engine Coolant Temp
* Fuel Pressure
* Calculated Engine Load
* Throttle Position
* Intake Manifold Pressure
* Air Intake Temp
* Timing Advance
* Mass Air Flow
* Fuel Level
* Barometric Pressure
* EVAP System Vapor Pressure
* Fuel Trim

Visual Representations

* Gauge: Displays a moving needle and LED display to show current reading
* Graph: Displays current value over time

Engine Code Retrieve and Reset

Want to know why your Check Engine light is on? Rev will tell you why!

* Engine code checking
* Listing of all engine codes thrown by the vehicle
* One-button reset of your codes and Check Engine light

Auto-centric User Experience
Rev has been designed to be easy to use in car-mounted iPhone/iPod Touch installations.
While we OFFICIALLY DO NOT RECOMMEND USING Rev OR OTHER IPHONE/IPOD TOUCH APPLICATIONS WHILE DRIVING, we do think it would be a mind-bendingly awesome experience were anyone to actually try it.

* Quick taps for bumpy rides – double tap gauge to zoom in/out, swipe to graph view
* Car-mount-friendly orientations – landscape or portrait
* Dark background color scheme – easy on the eyes, day and night

Wireless Freedom
Simply connect to the OBD-II/WLAN device by approaching your car. While connected, your iPhone can still access the Internet via EDGE or 3G.

Canon 5D MKII hands on preview from Photokina

September 26, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Canon 5D MKII hands on preview from Photokina.

The good people over at Imaging-resource.com have some videos from the photokina show in Germany. One that really caught my eye is of course, Canon 5D MKII. Dave Etchells walks us through some of the key features of Canon 5D MKII. One interesting feature is creative-auto for entry level users to know what aperture will do to your photo. Just makes you wonder who is this camera for? Pro’s? :P


Canon G10 priced at B&H photo

September 26, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Canon G10 priced at B&H photo.

B&H has pricing of the Canon G10. B&H is not currently taking orders for the Canon G10, but they have a price so you can start saving your penny’s! Specs of the camera look great can’t wait to have one in my hands to compare to semi-retire Canon G9.

Click HERE to the camera store!

Canon 5D MKII video from Vincent Laforet

September 24, 2008 hfortysixit 3 comments

Canon 5D MKII video from Vincent Laforet

As one of the cool new features of the new Canon 5D MKII is its video function. Having the capabilities of shooting 1080p 30p in H.264 at a incredible 38.6 Mbits/sec. The videos coming out of the 5D MKII are out this world! Many are wondering how close is this to AVCHD or even more pro video cameras(ie Sony EX1). Take a look at the video from renowned (Pulitzer Prize-winning) photographer Vincent Laforet. Its been 3 days from first work that Vincent Laforet was putting out the video with a pre-production Canon 5D MKII. Now its out its and its great!

Take a gander HERE!

2008 Honda Challenge National Championship Race-Jonathan Meris H1

September 22, 2008 hfortysixit 2 comments

2008 Honda Challenge National Championship Race. This is from 2nd place car in H1 footage! Thanks courtesy of Jonathan Meris. Enjoy its a great in car video!

B&H photo taking orders for Canon 5D MKII

September 22, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

B&H photo taking orders for Canon 5D MKII

Good friends at B&H have the New Canon 5D MKII up on there site to take pre-orders! You can visit my pro-shop and place your order thru there! Just have to click on the Canon 5D MKII picture to take to B&H photo to place your order!

Thank you!

Click HERE to the Camera store!


Nikon annouces 50mm f1.4 AF-S!!!

September 22, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Nikon annouces 50mm f1.4 AF-S!

Well we knew it was just a matter of time. This was LONG over due, Nikon released today a NEW 50mm f1.4 AF-S. Replacing the aging, but still great 50mm f1.4 AF. I’m sure that this lens is going to be a great hit D40/D40x/D60 users. Due to arrive in stores in December.

# AF-S 50mm lens — a fast, single-focal-length lens with normal picture angle (when attached to a DX-format SLR, the picture angle is equivalent to a focal length of 75mm in FX/35mm format)
# Large maximum aperture of f/1.4
# Well-balanced design realizes both high MTF performance and natural-looking picture blur
# Newly developed optical system effectively corrects sagittal coma flare and coma aberration
# Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures smooth, quiet AF operation
# Two focus modes are available — M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual focus)
# Focus ring does not rotate in AF operation
# Natural blur effects thanks to nine-blade rounded diaphragm
# Although all lens groups shift during focusing, the lens barrel length does not change

Click HERE to the release


Canon 5D MK II Sample Gallery

September 21, 2008 hfortysixit 1 comment

Canon 5D MK II Sample Gallery

Well Dpreview is really on board with Canon here. Today they just released the sample gallery for the New Canon 5D MK II! I can really tell you that the High ISO performance of the 5D MKII are pretty incredible! I would have to say they are right no par with Nikon or even better. You could say its better if were to re-size Canon 5D MK II files down to 12MP. Watch out Nikon cause here comes Canon!

Click HERE to the sample gallery!

Canon 5D MKII release date in Canada!

September 17, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Canon 5D MKII release date in Canada!

Our good friends at Vistek has given a ESTIMATE time for arrival of the new Canon 5D MKII. I know that many people are excited and ready to buy a new camera. Well the time is right! Or is it? Photokina is still about 6 days away. The rumors had it that Canon was going to release another Full Frame body. Does Canon have another ace up there sleeve?

Click HERE to pre-order and see release date!


Canon 5D MK II Hands on Preview!!!!

September 17, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Canon 5D MK II Hands on Preview!!!!

Well our good friends over at Dpreview have already got a hands on preview of the new Canon 5D MKII. I really haven’t had a chance to look it over, but from a quick scan it looks like the new 5D MKII is a clear winner.

Take a look HERE for the preview!


New Canon G10!!!

September 17, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

New Canon G10!!!

High quality, wide angle lens
With a 5x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom lens, the PowerShot G10 combines outstanding wide-angle capabilities – making it perfect for landscapes, architecture or interiors – with the telephoto reach needed for flexible composition. Sharp, blur-free shots throughout the zoom range are assured by Canon’s optical
Image Stabilizer, which offers enhanced performance via a 4-stop advantage.

14.7 Megapixel resolution with RAW
A 14.7 Megapixel CCD sensor – the highest resolution of any PowerShot model – works in combination with Canon’s new DIGIC 4 processor, for uncompromising images that combine high detail with extremely low noise levels. Such outstanding detail allows printing in sizes of up to A2, or creative cropping in post-processing.

For the ultimate in post-processing control, the PowerShot G10 includes a RAW shooting mode – plus support for Canon Digital Photo Professional software, for integration into professional photographers’ workflows.

DIGIC 4 for exceptional images
Canon’s new DIGIC 4 image processor uses improved algorithms and calculation accuracy, allowing the PowerShot G10 to deliver two major advantages: ultra-fast operation, and rich, low-noise images with outstanding clarity and colour reproduction.

DIGIC 4 also powers several intelligent onboard features. Canon’s new i-Contrast feature increases the dynamic range in images to bring out previously unnoticed detail in dark areas, like shadows – without blowing out lighter areas.

Canon’s anti-blur solution combats blur caused by camera shake and subject motion using a range of technologies: optical Image Stabilizer, Motion Detection Technology and Auto ISO Shift, plus new Servo AF – which, when engaged, continually adjusts focus on a subject moving towards or away from the camera.

Designed for more
With a range-leading resolution of 461k dots, a large 3.0” PureColor LCD II allows easy framing and ultra-detailed review of every shot; this is complemented by improved colour rendition and an exceptionally wide viewing angle. For immediate, fingertip access to key settings, the PowerShot G10 includes a new dedicated Exposure Compensation dial and dual ISO/shooting mode dial.

Complete accessory system
A comprehensive accessory system now includes support for Canon’s Macro Ring Lite and Macro Twin Lite, which offer powerful new possibilities for close-up shots and other creative photography. New compatibility with the Remote Switch RS60-E3 allows easy shutter release when shooting with a tripod.

“Like no other compact camera, the PowerShot G10 delivers the power to excel,” commented Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “It will appeal not only to photo enthusiasts, but also to professionals seeking a powerful, compact addition to their kitbag.”

Features at a glance:

* 14.7 Megapixel CCD sensor
* 5x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer
* RAW image recording plus support for Canon Digital Photo Professional
* DIGIC 4 for clear, sharp images, high-speed AF (including Servo AF) and fast response times
* Targets all the main causes of blur with High ISO Auto, optical
Image Stabilizer, Motion Detection Technology and Auto ISO shift
* Great people shots with improved Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB plus
Face Select & Track and FaceSelf-Timer
* 3.0” PureColor LCD II (461k dots resolution) with wide viewing angle and optical viewfinder
* i-Contrast boosts brightness and retains detail in dark areas
* Dedicated Exposure Compensation and ISO dials
* 26 shooting modes with manual control and custom settings
* Accessories include tele-converter, Speedlite flashes and waterproof case
* Smooth, 30fps VGA movies

Printing
The PowerShot G10 features a dedicated Print menu for quick access to direct print options. Full PictBridge support means users can print directly to any PictBridge compatible printer without the need for a PC. A Print/Share button allows one-touch printing and easy uploads to Windows or Mac systems.

Language
The PowerShot G10 features a user interface that supports 26 languages: English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Portuguese, Korean, Greek, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Thai, Arabic, Romanian, Ukrainian and – new for Autumn 2008 – Farsi.

Memory Card Support
In addition to SD, SDHC and MMC memory cards, the PowerShot G10 supports MMCplus and HC MMCplus card formats. It is supplied with a 32MB memory card.

Software and CANON iMAGE GATEWAY
The PowerShot G10 comes bundled with the following Canon Software:

* ZoomBrowser EX 6.2 (Windows), ImageBrowser 6.2 (Macintosh): For organising and editing images, movies and slideshows, or creating and printing digital photo albums. Digital Photo Professional 3.5 (Windows and Macintosh): for editing and converting RAW images.
* PhotoStitch 3.1 (Windows), PhotoStitch 3.2 (Mac): For creating panoramic photos from multiple images.

The bundled software supports Windows Vista (including SP1) / and XP SP2 and Macintosh OS X v10.4-10.5. The PowerShot G10 supports PTP for driverless transfer to Windows XP and Macintosh OS X, along with MTP for image and movie transfers to Windows Vista.

Purchasers of the PowerShot G10 are eligible for free membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, 100MB of online ‘personal gallery’ space for sharing stills and video with family and friends.

Optional Accessories
The PowerShot G10 can be combined with the following accessories:

* Soft Case (DCC-650, SC-DC60A)
* Waterproof case (WP-DC28) plus Waterproof Case Weight WW-DC1
* Tele-converter 1.4x TC-DC850 (requires Lens adaptor LA-DC58K)
* Canon Speedlite flash units (220EX, 430EX II, 580EX, 580EX II)
* Speedlite Macro Twin Lite (MT-14EX), Speedlite Macro Ring Lite (MR-24EX). These are recommended for use with Off Camera Shoe Cord (OC-E3) and the new Speedlite Bracket (BKT-DC1).
* Speedlite Transmitter (ST-E2)
* High Power Flash (HF-DC1)
* Remote Switch (RS-60E3)
* AC Adaptor Kit (ACK-DC50)
* Battery Charger Kit (CB-2LZE)
* Ring Accessory Kit RAK-DC2

Technologies Explained:

DIGIC 4
Canon’s DIGIC 4 (Digital Imaging Core) image processor manages all of the camera’s primary functions to optimize operating efficiency. Advanced image processing algorithms deliver superb image detail and colour reproduction with accurate white balance. High-speed processing results in outstanding responsiveness, rapid auto focus and extended continuous shooting ability.
DIGIC 4 also powers advanced Noise Reduction Technology, i-Contrast and Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB.

Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB, Face Select & Track and FaceSelf-Timer
Canon’s Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB system automatically detects up to 35 faces within a frame before adjusting focus, exposure, flash and white balance to ensure optimal results. It is able to determine which faces are intended to be the subject, instantly reverting to the partnering 9-point AiAF system if no face is the primary subject. Face Select & Track allows the user to select a particular face to be the main subject of a photograph and track it, for the best possible results.

FaceSelf-Timer allows easy group shots by automatically triggering the shutter shortly after a new face has entered the frame.

i-Contrast
Available in either shooting or playback mode, Canon’s i-Contrast function analyses the exposure, dynamic range and other image characteristics of a shot, then adaptively increases the gain in dark areas – to produce heightened detail in darker regions, without blowing out correctly-exposed parts of the image. The noise reduction function of DIGIC 4 ensures minimal noise in adjusted areas.

iSAPS
iSAPS (intelligent Scene Analysis based on Photographic Space) automatically optimises key camera settings before every shot. Each scene is analysed and cross-referenced against Photographic Space – a vast in-camera library of photographic data. This enables the camera to make optimal adjustments to auto exposure, auto focus and auto white balance before image capture occurs.

Optical Image Stabilizer
The PowerShot G10 uses a lens shift-type Image Stabilizer (IS) system to detect and correct slight camera shakes that can cause image blur. The IS delivers a 4 stop advantage for improved performance in low-light conditions, when shooting at the telephoto end of the lens and when vibrations are more severe. It also features increased sensitivity to low frequency vibration, such as the rocking of a boat. Minute vibration gyros detect camera movement caused by hand shake.

These signals – at 8,000 per second, twice the speed of signals in conventional IS – are processed by a single-chip IS controller, which discriminates between hand shake and intentional camera movements. Shake signals are sent to the IS unit, which moves one of the lens elements accordingly to re-align the light rays and cancel out the effects of shake.

For improved accuracy and responsiveness, the moving lens element is supported on tiny ceramic spheres. In addition to minimising friction, ceramic spheres avoid some of the problems that can affect metal systems, such as thermal expansion and magnetism.


New Canon 24mm F1.4 L MKII

September 17, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

New Canon 24mm F1.4 L MKII

The EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM offers:

* Fast f/1.4 aperture
* Aspherical and UD lens elements for correction of chromatic aberration
* Sub Wavelength structure Coating (SWC) to dramatically reduce ghosting and flare
* Circular aperture for pleasing bokeh
* USM for full-time manual focus
* Lead-free glass (RoHS compliance)
* Lens hood and pouch supplied

Superior image performance
Featuring a 13-element, 10-group lens, the EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM is designed to achieve the highest standards of image quality. Two high-precision GMo aspheric lenses are employed to correct various forms of aberration such as curvature of field and distortion, with a floating mechanism ensuring crisp corner-to-corner detail throughout the focal range. In addition, two UD lenses reduce the chromatic aberration common in wide-angle lenses.

A fast, ultra-large maximum aperture of f/1.4 delivers excellent low-light performance, with the circular aperture offering the potential for creative out-of-focus highlights. A focal length of 24mm and a USM focus motor providing full-time manual focus also make the EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM ideal for situations where a wide-angle, high-performance lens is required.

Advanced lens coating
Reflections off a digital camera’s image sensor can compromise images with ghosting and flare. To help reduce this, the inside of EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM’s front element is treated with Canon’s new Sub Wavelength structure Coating. Developed specifically to work with Canon optics, this anti-reflective coating helps reduce flare and ghosting – for consistently crisp, undistorted images.

Robust build quality
The EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM is designed to withstand the rigours of even the most testing shooting environment – with Canon’s advanced weather and dust sealing making it the perfect choice for photojournalists and landscape photographers.


Canon Anounces 5D MK II!!!!!!!!!

September 17, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Canon Anounces 5D MK II !!!!!!!!!

Well its here folks! Canon 5D MK II!!! This is a huge announcement for Canon. So looks to be similar sensor as 1Ds MK III, but they are saying better improvement cause of the Digic IV. Is this what we have all been waiting for? Can it be just as great as the original 5D? Hard to say right now. But wow are the specs great! Price for the 5D MK II they are saying around the $2700US mark.

Here are the specs:

21.1 Megapixel Full-frame CMOS sensor, 14-bit A/D conversion (16,384 colors/each of 3 primary color), wide range ISO setting of 100-6400 (expandable L: 50, H1: 12800 and H2: 25600).

Full HD Video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution for up to 4GB per clip with HDMI output for HD viewing of stills and video.

Next generation DIGIC 4 Image Processor for faster processing of fine detail and color reproduction as well as reduced image noise.

High performance with 3.9 fps continuous shooting, new shutter with a durability of 150,000 cycles and improved weather-resistant body.

Live View Function for stills (Quick, Live and Face Detection AF modes) and video.

3.0-inch Clear View LCD (920,000 dots/VGA) monitor with anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coatings for improved viewing and smudge protection.

Updated EOS Integrated Cleaning System specifically designed to work with a full-frame sensor.

Compatible with over 60 Canon EF/EF-S lenses and most EOS System accessories.
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Highest ISO Range to Date.
21.1 Megapixel Full-frame CMOS sensor, 14-bit A/D conversion (16,384 colors/each of 3 primary color), wide range ISO setting of 100-6400 (expandable L: 50, H1: 12800 and H2: 25600).
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The EOS 5D Mark II features a huge, full-frame sensor. A 21.1-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers images of up to 5616 x 3744 pixels. And since it is full-frame, all lenses will deliver the angle of view they would on a 35mm camera without a conversion factor. This comes in handy especially when shooting with wide-angle lenses. For the flexibility to shoot in even the most dimly lit situations, the EOS 5D Mark II offers Canon’s highest ISO sensitivity to date, ranging from 100-6400 (expandable to ISO L: 50, H1: 12800 and H2: 25600). Thanks to improved noise reduction technologies, images shot even at highest sensitivity will be remarkably smooth.

Type
Digital, single-lens reflex, AF/AE camera with built-in flash
Recording Media
CF Card Type I and II, UDMA-compliant CF cards, via external media (USB v.2.0 hard drive, via optional Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E4A)
Image Sensor Size
36.0mm x 24.0mm (35mm Fll-frame)
Compatible Lenses
Canon EF lenses
(35mm-equivalent focal length is approx. 1.6x the lens focal length)
Lens Mount
Canon EF mount
Image Sensor
Type
High-sensitivity, high-resolution, large single-plate CMOS sensor
Pixels
Effective pixels: Approx. 21.1 megapixels
Total Pixels
Total pixels: Approx. 22.0 megapixels
Aspect Ratio
3:2 (Horizontal: Vertical)
Color Filter System
RGB primary color filters
Low-pass Filter
Fixed position in front of the CMOS sensor
Dust Deletion feature
(1) Automatic sensor cleaning
(2) Manual cleaning of sensor
(3) Dust Delete Data appended to the captured image
Recording System
Recording Format
Design rule for Camera File System 2.0
Image Type
Still: JPEG, RAW (14-bit, Canon original), sRAW1, sRAW2, RAW+JPEG
Video: MOV
File Size
(1) Large/Fine: Approx. 6.1MB (5616 x 3744 pixels)
(2) Large/Nomal: Approx. 3.0MB (5616 x 3744 pixels)
(3) Medium/Fine: Approx. 3.6MB (4080 x 2720 pixels)
(4) Medium/Normal: Approx. 1.9MB (4080 x 2720 pixels)
(5) Small/Fine: Approx. 2.1MB (2784 x 1856 pixels)
(6) Small/Normal: Approx. 1.0MB (2784 x 1856 pixels)
(7) RAW: Approx. 25.8MB (5616 x 3744 pixels)
(8) sRAW 1: Approx. 14.8MB (3861 x 2574 pixels)
(9) sRAW 2: Approx. 10.8MB (2784 x 1856 pixels)
Exact file sizes depend on the subject, ISO speed, Picture Style, etc.
Recording Functions
With the WFT-E4A attached, image recording to the CF card and to the USB external media connected to the WFT-E4A will be possible as follows:
(1) Standard
(2) Automatic switching of recording media
(3) Separate recordings according to image-recording quality
(4) Recording images having the same size
Backup Recording
Enabled with WFT-E4A attached
File Numbering
Consecutive numbering, auto reset, manual reset.
Possible to create new folders and select folders in the CF card
RAW + JPEG Simultaneous Recording
Provided (RAW/sRAW+JPEG also possible)
Color Space
sRGB, Adobe RGB
Picture Style
Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful, Monochrome, User Def. 1-3
Image Processing
Type
Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten Light, White Fluorescent Light, Flash, Custom, Color Temperature setting
Auto White Balance
Auto white balance with the image sensor
Color Temperature Compensation
White balance correction: ±9 stops in full-stop increments
White balance bracketing: ±3 stops in full-stop increments
Blue/amber direction or magenta/green direction possible
Color Temperature Information Transmission
Provided
Viewfinder
Type
Eye-level pentaprism
Coverage
Vertical/Horizontal approx. 98%
Magnification
Approx. 0.71x (-1m-1 with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint
Approx. 21mm (from eyepiece lens center)
Built-in Dioptric Adjustment
-3.0 to +1.0m-1 (diopter)
Focusing Screen
Interchangeable (Eg-D: Grid lines, Eg-S [point of Focus], Eg-A standard focusing screen provided
Mirror
Quick-return half mirror (transmission: reflection ratio of 40:60, no mirror cutoff with EF600mm f/4L IS USM or shorter lenses)
Viewfinder Information
AF information (AF points, focus confirmation light), Exposure information (shutter speed, aperture, ISO speed, AE lock, exposure level, spot metering circle), Flash information (flash ready, flash exposure compensation, High-speed sync, FE lock), Image information (Highlight tone priority, monochrome shooting, maximum burst, white balance correction, CF card information), battery information
Depth-of-Field Preview
Enabled with depth-of-field preview button
Autofocus
Type
TTL-CT-SIR AF-dedicated CMOS sensor
AF Points
9 (Cross-type)
Metering Range
EV -0.5-18 (at 73°F/23°C, ISO 100)
Focusing Modes
Auto, One-Shot AF, Predictive AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF)
AF Point Selection
Automatic selection, manual selection
Selected AF Point Display
Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist Beam
When an external EOS-dedicated Speedlite is attached to the camera, the AF-assist beam from the Speedlite will be emitted when necessary.
Exposure Control
Metering Modes
35-zone TTL full-aperture metering

* Evaluative metering (linkable to any AF point)
* Partial metering (approx. 8% of viewfinder at center)
* Spot metering (approx. 3.5% of viewfinder at center)
* Center-weighted average metering

Metering Range
EV 1-20 (at 73°F/23°C with EF50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100)
Exposure Control
Program AE (Shiftable), Shutter-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Creative Auto, Full auto, Manual exposure, E-TTL II autoflash program AE
ISO Speed (Recommended Exposure Index)
Automatically set, ISO 100-6400 (in 1/3-stop or 1-stop increments)
Basic Zone modes: ISO 100-3200 set automatically
Extension settable (with C.Fn.I-3-1): ISO 50 (L), 12800 (H1), 25600 (H2)
High Tone Priority settable: ISO 200-1600
Exposure Compensation
Manual: ±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments (can be combined with AEB)
AE Lock
Auto: Applied in One-Shot AF mode with evaluative metering when focus is achieved
Manual: By AE lock button
Shutter
Type
Vertical-travel, mechanical, Electronically-controlled, focal-plane shutter
Shutter Speeds
1/8000 to 1/60 sec., X-sync at 1/200 sec.
1/8000 to 30 sec., bulb (Total shutter speed range. Available range varies by shooting mode)
Shutter Release
Soft-touch electromagnetic release
Self-timer
10-sec. or 2-sec. delay
Remote Control
Remote control with N3-type terminal
External Speedlite
Zooming to Match Focal Length
Provided
Compatible Flash
EX-series Speedlites
Flash Metering
E-TTL II autoflash
Flash Exposure Compensation
±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments
FE Lock
Provided
External Flash Settings
Flash function settings, Flash C.Fn settings
Drive System
Drive Modes
Single, High-speed continuous, Low-speed continuous, and Self-timer (10-sec. or 2-sec. delay)
Continuous Shooting Speed
Max. 3.9 shots/sec.
Maximum Burst
JPEG (Large/Fine): approx. 78 (CF)/approx. 310 (UDMA CF)
RAW: approx. 13/approx. 14 (UDMA CF)
RAW+JPEG (Large/Fine): approx. 8 (CF/UDMA CF)
Based on Canon’s testing standards with a 2GB CF card, high-speed continuous shooting, ISO 100 and Standard Picture Style
Varies depending on the subject, CF card brand, image-recording quality, ISO speed, drive mode, Picture Style, etc.
Live View Functions
Shooting Modes
Still photo shooting and video shooting
Focusing
Quick mode (Phase-difference detection)
Live mode/Face Detection Live mode (Contrast detection)
Manual focusing (5x/10x magnification possible)
Metering Modes
Evaluative metering with the image sensor (still photos)
Center-weighted average metering (video)
Metering Range
EV 0-20 (at 73°F/23°C with EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100)
Grid Display
Provided (Two-type grid displays)
Exposure Simulation
Provided
Silent Shooting
Provided (Mode 1 and 2)
LCD Monitor
Type
TFT color, liquid-crystal monitor
Monitor Size
3.0 in.
Dots
Approx. 920,000 (VGA)
Coverage
Approx. 100% (viewing angle: approx. 170°)
Brightness Adjustment
Auto, 7 levels provided
Interface Languages
25 (English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Portuguese, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Greek, Russian, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, 15/15 Romanian, Ukraine, Turkish, Arabic, Thai, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Korean, Japanese)
Image Playback
Display Format
Single image, Single image + Image-recording quality/shooting information, histogram, 4- or 9-image index, magnified view (approx. 1.5x-10x), rotated image (auto/manual), image jump (by 10/100 images, index screen, by shooting date, by folder), slide show (all images/selected by date/folder)
Highlight Warning
Provided (Overexposed highlights blink)
Image Protection and Erase
Protect
Single images can be erase-protected or not
Erase
Single image, check-marked images or all images in the CF card can be erased (except protected images)
Direct Printing
Compatible Printers
PictBridge-compatible printers
Printable Images
JPEG images compliant to Design rule for Camera File System (DPOF printing possible) and RAW/sRAW images captured with the EOS 5D Mark II
Easy Print feature
Provided
DPOF: Digital Print Order Format
DPOF
Version 1.1 compatible
Direct Image Transfer
Compatible Images
JPEG and RAW images
Only JPEG images can be transferred as wallpaper on the personal computer screen
Customization
Custom Functions
Total 25
Camera User Settings
Register under Mode Dial’s C1 and C3 positions
My Menu Registration
Provided
Interface
USB Terminal
For personal computer communication and direct printing (USB 2.0 Hi-Speed)
Video Out Terminal
(1) Video OUT terminal: NTSC/PAL selectable
(2) HDMI mini OUT terminal
Extension System Terminal
For connection to WFT-E4A
Power Source
Battery
One Battery Pack LP-E6
AC power can be supplied via AC Adapter Kit ACK-E6 with Battery Grip BG-E6 attached.
Battery Check
Auto
Power Saving
Provided. Power turns off after 1, 2, 4, 8, 15 or 30 min.
Date/Time Battery
One CR1616 lithium-ion battery
Start-up Time
Approx. 0.1 sec.
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (WxHxD)
Approx. 6.0 x 4.5 x 3.0 in./152.0 x 113.5 x 75.0mm
Weight
Approx. 28.6 oz./810g (body only)
Operating Environment
Working Temperature Range
32-104°F/0-40°C
Working Humidity Range
85% or less

CANON U.S.A. INTRODUCES THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EOS 5D MARK II DSLR CAMERA FEATURING FULL-FRAME HD VIDEO CAPTURE

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Escalates Full-Frame Digital SLR Photography to the Next Level with HD Movie Recording Capabilities, DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor, and 21.1 Megapixel Resolution

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 17, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today introduced the EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera, the long-awaited successor to Canon’s highly popular EOS 5D, introduced in 2005. Building upon the qualities that made the EOS 5D camera so successful, Canon has coupled the creative power of a full-frame CMOS sensor in a relatively compact and affordable camera body, together with groundbreaking HD video capture that opens the door to a much wider range of imaging possibilities for photographers. Along with the ability to capture full HD video clips at 1920 x 1080 resolution, Canon’s EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera features a 21.1-megapixel full frame 24 x 36mm CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 imaging processor and significantly lower noise, with an expanded sensitivity range from ISO 50 to ISO 25,600.

“The anticipation surrounding the launch of this camera model has exceeded our greatest expectations, and we believe our loyal customers will be awed by the level of innovation and features built into the new EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR. Once they have the chance to experience the camera, we believe they will agree that it was worth the wait,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

Among the many advancements in Canon’s new EOS 5D Mark II camera is the Company’s proprietary DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor that powers the camera’s fast 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion for smooth color tones and exceptional gradation. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR offers a full-frame 24 x 36mm, 21.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and continuous shooting at 3.9 frames per second (fps) for an unlimited number of full-resolution JPEGs to the capacity of the memory card or up to 14 RAW images in a single burst when using a UDMA CF card. The camera includes a 15-point Autofocus (AF) sensor with nine selectable AF points plus six additional Assist AF points (three center AF points sensitive to f/2.8 lenses) with enhanced light source detection and AF microadjustment for greater autofocus performance. The EOS 5D Mark II camera also features a large, clear 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen with 920,000 dot/VGA resolution, four times the pixel count of the EOS 5D camera’s 2.5-inch screen, for enhanced clarity and color when viewing images. The new camera is equipped with a high-performance, high-magnification optical viewfinder providing 98 percent coverage, giving a new dimension to the saying, “what you see is what you get.” Professional photographers will also appreciate the enhanced 150,000-cycle shutter durability of the EOS 5D Mark II camera.

Canon, the first company to introduce a full-frame digital camera, has improved the EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera’s newly developed full-frame CMOS image sensor. Utilizing proprietary Canon technology, the Company has reduced noise and expanded the sensitivity of the CMOS sensor up to ISO 25600, which is three full stops higher than the ISO 3200 limit of the original EOS 5D camera. Although the individual pixel dimensions of the EOS 5D Mark II camera are the same as the 21.1-megapixel CMOS sensor used in the EOS-1Ds Mark III digital SLR, the new sensor incorporates an improved output amplifier and a more advanced color filter that improves light transmission while retaining excellent color reproduction. By applying the same kind of advancements in sensor design and image processing technology as the recently introduced EOS 50D camera, but at higher resolution and with larger pixels, the EOS 5D Mark II achieves the highest level of image quality of any EOS Digital SLR released to date.

With the combination of its improved CMOS image sensor and the powerful new DIGIC 4 image processor, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II camera provides ISO speeds from ISO 100 up to ISO 6400 in 1/3-stop increments, along with two high-speed settings – H1 and H2 – of ISO 12800 and ISO 25600, respectively, as well as a low-speed setting of ISO 50. The full-frame sensor maximizes the performance of Canon EF lenses, the world’s largest selection of autofocus lenses.

HD and SD Video Capture
Canon has taken its expertise in imaging, photography and video capture technology to a new level with the EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR. Answering the question of where SLR technology is going next, the EOS 5D Mark II features 16:9 Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 pixels and 30 fps as well as 4:3 standard TV quality (SD) video capture at 640 x 480 pixels and 30 fps, both capabilities appearing for the first time in a Canon SLR camera. Video capture is part of the camera’s Live View function, using the Picture Style that has been set for Live View still image shooting. This allows skilled photographers and cinematographers to adjust image sharpness, contrast, color saturation and white balance, and have those settings apply to the movie image. When recording video, the camera’s rear LCD screen can be letter-boxed by a semi-transparent border to match the aspect ratio of the movie recording size. Moreover, the EOS 5D Mark II camera’s HD video capability enables new levels of creative expression through its unfettered access to the complete line of more than 60 Canon EF lenses, which provide an incredible variety of visual effects including everything from ultra-wide-angle and fish-eye to macro and super-telephoto, including many large-aperture L-series professional lenses that can keep the main subject in razor-sharp focus while blurring the background beyond recognition.

The EOS 5D Mark II will record video up to 4GB per clip or a maximum continuous movie capture time of 29 minutes and 59 seconds, whichever comes first. Depending on the level of detail in the scene, a 4GB memory card can record approximately 12 minutes of video at full HD resolution or approximately 24 minutes in standard definition.i Video clips are recorded in .MOV format using an MPEG-4 video compression and sound is recorded using linear PCMii without compression. The new camera features an input terminal for external stereo microphones as well as a built-in monaural microphone for convenience. To help show off those fantastic movies as well as still photos, the EOS 5D Mark II camera includes an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) output to display crisp, clear images on a High-Definition TV.

Live View Shooting
For both still images and video, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II camera features Live View, one of the most sought after features in digital SLRs today. The 5D Mark II features three Live View AF modes – Quick, Live and Face Detection Live mode – for capturing either still photos or video, each with its own attributes. Quick mode automatically sets One-Shot AF using the camera’s phase detection AF system. It also allows users to select the AF point, even while the Live View image is displayed. Although the camera’s reflex mirror must be lowered briefly to take an AF measurement in Quick mode, it is the fastest way to set focus automatically when the 5D Mark II camera is set for Live View.

Live mode uses contrast-detection AF with the image sensor and here, as with Quick mode, users can change the AF point using the Multi-controller. Face Detection Live mode uses contrast AF to recognize human faces. When multiple faces are detected, the largest face closest to the center of the frame is targeted as the AF point. While Live View is engaged users can still change settings including the AF mode (Quick, Live, Face Detection Live mode), drive mode, ISO speed, Picture style, White Balance, and more.

Peripheral Illumination Correction
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera automatically conducts peripheral illumination correction when shooting JPEG images, a function that previously could only be accomplished through post-image processing using software such as Canon’s Digital Photo Professional, which Canon supplies at no extra charge. Peripheral illumination correction evens brightness across the image field, making an image of a blue sky even toned throughout and reducing light fall-off at image edges. This new feature essentially eliminates one of the limitations of previous full-frame digital SLRs.

Auto Lighting Optimizer
Canon’s enhanced Auto Lighting Optimizer technology helps ensure each picture’s subject is clearly visible by analyzing image brightness and automatically adjusting dark areas in images so that they appear brighter. This function is ideal in high-contrast situations such as urban landscapes captured on sunny days, where the tops of buildings are brightly lit while street level details are obscured by heavy shadows. In this type of scene, the 5D Mark II camera’s Auto Lighting Optimizer technology preserves accurate exposure of the highlights while opening up the shadow areas for a more pleasing tonal rendition.

Canon’s New Creative Auto Mode
Recently introduced with the new EOS 50D, Canon’s “CA” Creative Full Auto setting can also be found on the EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera’s mode dial. This setting allows users to make image adjustments such as aperture or shutter speed through an easy-to-understand navigation screen on the camera’s LCD menu, allowing them to “blur the background” or “lighten or darken the image.” These easy-to-understand image options allow photographers to experiment with image options while still shooting in an automatic mode.

Two Small RAW Formats
For photographers seeking the flexibility and creative possibilities of shooting RAW format images, without the large file size, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera offers two more manageable file size options with sRAW1 and sRAW2 recording formats. At the sRAW1 setting, resolution is 10.0-megapixels with a file size that is approximately 25 percent smaller than a standard 21.1-megapixel RAW image. With the sRAW2 setting, resolution is 5.2 megapixels at less than half the file size of a standard RAW image, retaining all of the flexibility and creative possibilities associated with full-size, conventional RAW images. Wedding and portrait photographers, in particular, will appreciate the options of variable resolution and file size which allow them to fine-tune the 5D Mark II’s operation for their specific needs.

Silent Shooting in Live View
Canon has equipped the EOS 5D Mark II with two Silent Shooting modes in Live View which will prove particularly helpful to law enforcement officials, and for behind-the-scenes shooting on movie sets. In Mode 1, the camera will shoot with the mechanical shutter open at the beginning of the exposure, using the electronic 1st-curtain function of the CMOS sensor and a reduced shutter-cocking noise, allowing multiple shots to be taken with minimal noise. In Mode 2, to minimize shutter noise during single frame photography, shutter cocking does not occur until the shutter button returns to the half-way position after shooting.

EOS Integrated Cleaning System
With the introduction of the EOS 5D Mark II camera, the entire Canon EOS system is now equipped with the highly acclaimed EOS Integrated Cleaning System. The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit for the Canon EOS 5D Mark II has been upgraded with a fluorine coating on the low-pass filter for better dust resistance.

Pricing and Availability
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera is compatible with Canon EF lenses and is scheduled for delivery by the end of November. The EOS 5D Mark II will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $2,699iii. It will additionally be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $3,499iv.

New EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Lens
The new EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM lens is the successor to Canon’s EF 24mm f/1.4L USM professional wide-angle lens released in 1997. Targeting professional photographers, the new EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM lens has been introduced to address the advancements high-resolution digital SLR cameras with re-designed optics and use of a new anti-reflection lens coating called SWC (Sub-Wavelength Structure Coating) to minimize ghosting and flare. Features such as dustproof and waterproof construction that have been adopted make this a high-performance lens with specifications that respond to the demands of professional users. A welcome complement to the EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera, the EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM lens is scheduled to be in stores this December at an estimated retail price of $1,699v.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2007†, with global revenues of $39.3 billion, is listed as one of Fortune’s Most Admired Companies in America and is on the 2007 BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.” To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/pressroom.



Sony A900 priced at B&H photo!

September 15, 2008 hfortysixit 1 comment

Sony A900 priced at B&H photo!

Well many people are interested for the new arrival of the Sony A900 to stores. First we have to get the price out of the way. Our good friends at B&H photo have priced the camera.

Click HERE for the price!


Categories: Gagets, Photo, Tech Tags: , , , , , , ,

Carl Zeiss Lens for Canon EF mount!!!

September 15, 2008 hfortysixit 2 comments

Carl Zeiss Lens for Canon EF mount!!!

Wow this has been a rumor for awhile now and it happened! Now you can get your favorite Lens maker Carl Zeiss for your Canon EF mount! Yay! I’m pretty happy about this, but I’m not too sure if my wallet is! Well we’ll have to see how much the Zeiss 85mm f1.4 will be? I’m certainly pretty happy!

Check out HERE the official press release at Carl Zeiss!


Sony FX1000 priced at B&H Photo!

September 11, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Sony FX1000 priced at B&H Photo!

Well Sony today has announced there latest HDV camera. Seems like the market is just ready to give up on HDV. This is a good for the HDV shooters out there. That major manufactures are not just killing another format for a newer format.

Here are all the specs:

Place the pinnacle of high definition in your hands with the HDR-FX1000 high definition MiniDV Handycam® camcorder. Equipped with 24p progressive scan mode, you’ll experience high-quality, film-like motion for brilliant scene reproduction while CinemaTone Gamma™ and CinemaTone Color™ provide the color and gamma range to give your footage an amazing film-like feel. It also features three 1/3-inch ClearVid™ CMOS image sensors with Exmor™ derived technology which let you capture sharp, detailed images even in lower-light situations. And the 29.5mm wide-angle to 590mm telephoto G-lens with 20X optical zoom brings the action closer and allows for wider angle shooting. Take control of light in extreme settings with three built-in neutral density filters and three manual rings for adjusting zoom, focus and iris. Plus, the 3.2″ Xtra Fine LCD™ and Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization give you an unparalleled recording experience.

Film-like Progressive Scan 1080/24p, 1080/30p, or 1080/60i

In addition to 1080/60i recording, the HDR-FX1000 offers a 1080/24p and 1080/30p Progressive Scan mode that enables shooting with film-like results. Signals scanned at 24p/30p are converted to 60i (using 2-3 pulldown for 24p) and recorded on MiniDV tape, allowing footage to be played and edited using existing HDV products. In this way, progressive images can be handled in the conventional HDV editing environment.

CinemaTone Gamma™ and CinemaTone Color™

Users seeking extra control over image expression can use “Cinematone Gamma” to deepen the color and “Cinematone Color” to recreate film-like color tones. Cinematone Gamma allows operators to quickly set up and load a gamma curve with similar contrast characteristics to a film gamma curve.

3x 1/3″ ClearVid™ CMOS Sensors w/ Exmor™ technology

The HDR-FX1000 features three 1/3” ClearVid CMOS Sensors, each having 1,120K total pixels. The 3 independent CMOS sensors each handle one of the color elements – red, green, blue (RGB) – improving the color reproduction of video recordings. Dark scenes can be captured with low noise thanks to “Exmor”-derived technology that features a new column A/D converter and dual noise reduction. Sensor resolution has been optimized and the photosensitive surface area has been maximized thanks to the unique grid arrangement of the photo diode sensors, in which each is rotated by 45 degrees. This model also features the signal processing circuit, the Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP) which uses Sony’s unique image-processing technology.

Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP) Technology

The EIP processor is able to rapidly process the vast amounts of pixel data read from the “3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor”, and record beautiful HD and colorful video. The ClearVid CMOS Sensor™ has been developed using the most advanced technologies in the semiconductor industry. It handles video data in 1920 x 1080p and 4:2:2 color space for high-quality signal processing before recording it to tape in the HDV format2. Combined use of the EIP and 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor imaging system allows the HDR-FX1000 camcorder to provide extremely high image quality with a smooth gradation and detailed image reproduction.

G Lens: 29.5mm Wide-Angle to 590mm (20x) Telephoto

The HDR-FX1000 is equipped with a 29.5mm wide-angle “G Lens” made from advanced 10 group, 15 element lens including “Extra-low Dispersion glass” which reduces chromatic aberration caused by light refraction, and produces video with extremely low color fringing. Designed for shooting situations ranging from broad landscape shots to conditions where sufficient distance from the subject is difficult to obtain. The 20x optical zoom (29.5mm-590mm: 35mm conversion) lets you zoom in to the subjects you can’t get close to. The optical zoom takes maximum advantage of the lens performance, so image quality does not suffer even at a zoom ratio of 20x, allowing you to faithfully reproduce the subject’s impact. The digital extender increases zoom by 1.5 throughout the range up to 30x at full zoom.

Superior low-light (1.5 LUX) shooting capabilities

Superior low-light ability with high sensitivity enables clear shooting of subjects in light as low as 1.5 lux (at 1/30 fixed shutter speed with auto iris and auto gain). This allows you to capture sharp detail and brilliant colors even in less than perfect lighting, especially when professional lighting cannot be used.

3x built-in neutral density (ND) filters

Gain more color control in extreme settings with three built-in ND filters for adjusting the amount of light entering the Image Sensor through the lens. Depending on shooting conditions, the operator can chose from Clear, 1/4, 1/16, or 1/64 filters. In strong, glaring sunlight these filters give users more flexibility in choosing the shutter speed and aperture for superior creative control.

3x manual rings for superior control: zoom, focus, and iris

The HDR-FX1000 has three independent manual rings (zoom, focus, and IRIS ) for superior control and flexibility while filming which make it easier to promptly make adjustments to meet shooting needs. The IRIS ring allows you to adjust the aperture to attain optimal brightness and express beautiful depth of field shots, highlighting a subject while blurring a foreground or background. Exposure can also be assigned to the IRIS ring enabling the camera to automatically select the optimal iris, gain or shutter speed, seamlessly enabling adjustment of exposure.

3.2″ Xtra Fine LCD™ display1 (921k pixels)

The 3.2” Wide1 (16:9) Xtra Fine™ LCD screen displays sharp, bright, vivid images, letting you compose a shot more easily — even outdoors, while enabling you to change settings to best represent the scene. With 921K pixels resolution and a wide viewing angle, the XtraFine LCD™ screen is like having a HDTV built into your camcorder.

Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization

The Optical SteadyShot® Image Stabilization System from Sony reduces blur caused by camera shake and vibration, so your images stay crisp and clear. This optical stabilization system achieves an even higher level of smoothness without the image degradation that can occur with some digital stabilization systems.

Manual Gain/Shutter/White Balance Adjustment

The ability to manually adjust gain, shutter speed, and white balance makes it possible to fine-tune the HDR-FX1000 model’s settings for near-professional operability and advanced image expression.

Improved Noise Reduction (w/ Exmor™ col. A/D conversion)

Exmor™ technology captures video with high resolution, high sensitivity, and exceptional detail. Advanced on-sensor A/D conversion and dual noise reduction yields rich tonal reproduction with high signal-to-noise ratio.

2:3 pull-down to 60i for editing on most HDV software

The 24p progressive scan signals are recorded to tape as 60i through means of 2:3 pull-down. This 2:3 sequence allows HDV material to be reverted to its original 24p form, as captured by the camera, using a compatible nonlinear editor2. Similarly, a 30p signal is recorded as a 60i signal by dividing each frame into two fields. This approach allows 24p and 30p progressive footage to be played back or fed to an editing suite seamlessly.

Minus Auto Gain Control (Minus AGC)

When shooting in overly bright conditions, this feature enables the selection of gain settings in the negative range for satisfying results with minimal noise.

Assign Buttons

This feature allows you to assign features you use often to shortcut buttons. The commonly used features can be used quickly without going through a menu selection (default: Zebra, AE Shift, and Record Review). Features that can be assigned: Extended Focus / Digital Extender (30x) / Ring Rotate/ AE Shift / Index Mark / SteadyShot / Back Light / Spotlight / Fader / Smooth Slow Rec / Color Bar / Rec Review / End Search / Zebra / Marker / Peaking / Pict. Profile / Shot Transition.

Additional record and zoom lever control on handle

A record start/stop button is featured on the handle as well as on the side grip. The zoom lever enables easy zooming even when shooting from a low angle.

0.45″Xtra Fine View Finder

This camcorder features a high-resolution 0.45” Xtra Fine (1,227K pixels) View Finder1 that offers extra clear visibility.
HDMI™ Connection4

HDMI™ connectivity4 provides a simple, high-quality video and audio connection, with the ability to transmit HD video from the camcorder to compatible HDTVs via a single cable.

i.LINK® Interface (IEEE1394)3

Quickly transfer images from the camcorder to compatible devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface3, including camcorders, digital VCRs, and PCs, using this high speed, bi-directional digital video/audio connection.
Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media Slot5

Capture still images directly onto Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media5 (sold separately) for easy transfer to PCs for emailing, printing, or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick® devices (sold separately).

Multi-Language Menu

Change the menu display from English to English (Simplified), Canadian French, Latin American Spanish, or Brazilian Portuguese

Switchable HDV/DV Format Recording

The HDR-FX1000 is capable of recording and playing back both High Definition and Standard Definition video recorded on MiniDV cassettes.

Picture Profile (up to 6)

Allows the user to set manual adjustments for a scene (color, sharpness, white balance, etc) into any one of 6 customizable presets, so they can be called up at just the touch of a button. This is useful when shooting under the same conditions repeatedly, as options do not have to be re-set each time. 4 settings for various shooting conditions are offered as defaults – portrait/cinema/sunset/monotone.

Shot Transition

The Shot Transition™ function allows for smooth automatic scene transitions. After an operator has programmed a shot’s start and end settings (e.g., for zoom, focus, iris, gain, shutter speed, and white balance) and pressed the start button, a smooth transition takes place over the duration of the shot by automatically calculating intermediate setting values. This is very useful when complex camera settings are required during the scene transition – for example, when panning the camcorder from a distant subject to a close subject

x.v. Color™ Technology

x.v.Color™ technology can capture or display nearly twice as many (1.8x) viewable colors than possible with the traditional RGB color standard. This provides a more accurate and vivid color range, for a more natural, lifelike overall experience.

Zebra display

While you are shooting, you can add a striped pattern to bright areas of the video image, and display it in the LCD and viewfinder. You can use this as a rough guide for adjusting brightness, helping to prevent blocked highlights.

Histogram display

When the histogram feature is turned on, a graph of the image’s brightness distribution appears. This gives you an objective determination of whether the video image as a whole is bright or dim. This makes it a handy guideline for brightness adjustment. You can adjust the camera’s brightness and AE shift while checking this display.

Peaking

This feature emphasizes the screen’s edge in the LCD and viewfinder, making it easier to adjust the focus. You can change the peaking colour to white, red, or yellow according to the color of the subject, and you can also set the peaking level to high, medium, or low. This feature is handy when shooting with manual focus, because it makes it easy to tell where the focus is currently.

Centre Marker/Guide-frame

The LCD and viewfinder feature a Centre Marker that lets users identify the centre of the screen at a glance. Users can also display a Guide-frame grid on the screen that simplifies the vertical and horizontal alignment of shots.

Color Bar

Four types of Color Bars are available for use. These are convenient for color adjustment when playing back images on a TV or monitor.

Fader

To enhance viewing enjoyment, users can create transitions between scenes by using the White fader or Black fader to fade images in and out.

Click HERE to see the price!


New Apple iPod Nano’s!

September 11, 2008 hfortysixit 1 comment

New Ipod Nano’s!

Well today there was a host of new apple products, but the most interesting to me was the Apple iPod. Apple has really tried to push the limits of the nano. Like adding a accelerometer just like the iPod Touch and iPhone. This giving you a really cool feature to change a song by shaking the iPod, and the iPod will just switch to a new song. Very cool! Well i can write about it all day. Just take a look at the Apple page to get all the info!

Click HERE to the Apple iPod Nano page!

Sony A900 announced Full Frame 24MP!

September 9, 2008 hfortysixit Leave a comment

Sony A900 annouced Full Frame 24MP!

Well everyone knew this was coming. It was just a matter of time, Sony’s A900 there first full frame camera! Since Sony is a big player for producing CCD and CMOS chips why would they not throw a full frame into there Dslr. Sametime of this announced they brought out 2 new lenses as well. 16-35 f2.8 and 70-400 f4-5.6. Its only a matter of time when Nikon will be getting this sensor in there full frame camera too. And then all other Dslr brands will follow suit.

Click HERE for hands on preview!

Click HERE for 2 new lenses!