The Sony Alpha a33 DSLR

Late last month Sony added to its Alpha DSLR line with new camera bodies and lenses. The products include cameras that feature Sony’s newly-developed Translucent Mirror Technology. This technology means the cameras can continuously and quickly focus while shooting stills and video, even full HD.

The new 16.2MP Alpha a55 can capture up to 10 fps, and the 14.2MP a33 can capture up to seven fps. Both cameras utilize Sony’s proprietary Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, BIONZ high-speed image processing engine and 100% Tru-Finder electronic viewfinder.

The Translucent Mirror technology enables light to pass through the lens, and simultaneously be received by the image sensor and AF sensor, so there’s no need to raise and lower the mirror, hence the cameras are significantly more compact than traditional DSLRs.

Rear of the Sony Alpha a55 DSLR with its LCD folded out

Other features include: a newly developed 15-point AF system with continuous Phase Detect AF. While shooting video, the cameras can maintain continuous focus, which means it will be easier than ever to get great video footage; full-time Live View, using either the viewfinder or LCD;  large 3-inch, fully articulated LCDs; and an ISO range from 100-12,800.

Also new is the Auto HDR feature which gives photographers the ability to capture High Dynamic Range photographs with ease; 3D Sweep Panorama technology that creates two images from a single frame, for viewing in 3D on compatible 3D systems and other devices that support 3D technology; and Sony’s Multi-Frame Noise Reduction The Alpha a55 also incorporates a built-in GPS.

Alpha A560 DSLR

Sony Alpha a560 with its built-in flash popped-up

In addition to the Alpha 55 and 33 cameras, Sony also added the A560 to its line. This new DSLR features a number of proprietary Sony technologies include Sony’s Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor, BIONZ image processor, Multi-frame Noise Reduction, Sweep Panorama, 3D Sweep Panorama and full HD video capture.

At 14.2MP, the A560 also features Quick AF Live View, seven fps continuous shooting and Auto HDR. The camera features a 3-inch LCD that tilts 90 degrees up/down. In addition to the regular Quick AF Live View, the camera utilizes a Focus Check Live View for critical framing and focusing. The camera also has a wide ISO range up to 25600.

All three DSLR cameras accept Memory Stick PRO Duo (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media.

While these are not necessarily pro-level DSLR bodies, we do expect to see them in the gear bags of pro photographers who are Sony shooters as back-up cameras; as well as with semi-pros and enthusiasts looking for a more affordable camera.

Camera Pricing and Availability

The a55 and a33 cameras will cost about $750 and $650 (respectively) for the body only and about $850 and $750 (respectively) for the body and kit 18-55mm zoom lens. The a33 is expected to hit store shelves in September and the a55 in October

The a560 model with the camera body and 18-55mm kit lens has an MSRP of $750 and will be available in October. Body only MSRP is $650.

Three New A-Mount Lenses

(l. to r.) Sony's three new A-mount prime lenses: Carl Zeiss Distagon T*24mm f/2 ZA SSM, DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM, and 85mm f/2.8 SAM lenses. (Images are not to scale.)

Sony is expanding its A-mount lens line with three new prime lenses including the Carl Zeiss Distagon T*24mm f/2 ZA SSM, DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM, and 85mm f/2.8 SAM lenses. MSRP for the three new lenses are  $1,250, $200, $250 respectively. The lenses will be available in October.

— Diane Berkenfeld

With Canon Expo happening next week in New York City, one had to wonder whether or not there would be any photography announcements coming this week from the company. The answer is a definite yes! Canon today introduced the EOS 60D DSLR, a replacement to the EOS 50D. The camera is designed for advanced amateurs but we’re sure to see it show up in the gear bags of pro shooters too. Canon also introduced four pro lenses and two tele-extenders. The lenses include new 300mm f/2.8 and 400mm f/2.8 prime telephoto lenses—pro glass for sure, with hefty price tags.

The 18MP EOS 60D is Canon's first DSLR to utilize a vari-angle LCD.

The EOS 60D is Canon’s first DSLR that utilizes a vari-angle LCD. The 3-inch LCD can be tilted up or down for ease of use when shooting stills or video. Ideal for capturing very low-angle or overhead shots that would otherwise be hard to compose.

The EOS 60D offers 18MP of resolution, utilizing an APS-C sized image sensor, and utilizes Canon’s proprietary DIGIC 4 image processor. Other features include a new 9-point AF system, Canon’s pro-level iFCL Metering System, and a frame rate of full resolution images up to 5.3 frames per second. ISO range is 100-6400 expandable to 12,800. Images are recorded to SD media, and the camera can utilize the newer SDHC and SDXC media cards. The camera also features a built-in pop-up flash with integrated Speedlite Transmitter that can control up to two groups of off-camera Speedlights.

The camera also features a number of EOS “firsts” including a new Multi-Control Dial which offers streamlined camera navigation. Responding to customer requests, the EOS 60D also features a locking mode dial, which makes camera operation more secure by preventing inadvertent changes to the photographer’s selected shooting mode. In-camera RAW image processing features let you edit in-camera, producing optimized JPG files without effecting the RAW data. This feature lets you process Picture Style, White Balance, Color Space, High-ISO Noise Reduction, and more. The EOS 60D also offers a new image resizing function which lets you downsize full resolution JPGs for display on HDTVs or for quick uploading to the web. The downsized image file is saved along with the original high-resolution file.

Canon also added new creative filters, which have been incorporated into the Canon PowerShot point and shoot cameras for some time. These artistic filters let you create a second “filtered” JPG file leaving the original RAW or JPG file unaffected when used applied to a captured still image. The four creative looks include soft focus, grainy B&W, “Toy Camera” and Canon’s Miniature Effect which simulates the look of a tilt-shift lens.

In addition to its new still capture capabilities, the EOS 60D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p. Native 24p recording helps videographers achieve a more cinema-style look for their footage without the need for post-processing. The EOS 60D camera’s movie mode also includes manual controls for exposure as well as manual audio levels in 64 steps, much like the latest firmware update for the EOS 5D Mark II HD-SLR. Standard Def. video can also be captured

An in-camera movie editing feature has also been added to the camera. The EOS 60D also includes Canon’s Movie Crop mode, which allows you to achieve 7x magnification when shooting SD video. When using this mode, the camera crops the image directly from the CMOS sensor at full SD resolution.

The Canon EOS 60D DSLR camera is scheduled to hit store shelves in late September. MSRP for the body-only is $1,099. The camera will also be offered in a kit version with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,399. The Canon BG-E9 battery grip accessory is expected to ship at the same time with an estimated price of $270.

New Pro Lenses and Tele-Extenders

Canon also introduced four new L-series lenses and two tele-extenders for the pro. They are the EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens, EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens, and two fast prime lenses: EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM and EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM super-telephoto lenses; and two new tele-extenders: Canon Extender EF 1.4x III and Extender EF 2x III.

Immediately noticeable to Canon shooters is the fact that these new L-series lenses feature a more neutral white tone than earlier lenses. This new shade of white will be used for all future Canon L-series lenses.

Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens

Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens

According to Canon, the EF 8-15mm f/4L USM is the world’s widest fisheye zoom lens. It delivers 180º diagonal angle of view images for all EOS DSLR cameras whether they utilize a full-frame image sensor or the smaller APS-C sensor. The lens provides 180º circular fisheye images for full-frame EOS cameras. Both still photographers and cinematographers are sure to love this new lens.

The Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens is expected to be available in January 2011 for an approximate retail price of $1,400.

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens

The EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens is the ideal telephoto zoom lens for advanced amateurs. An updated optical image stabilization system compensates for camera shake up to an equivalent of four full shutter-speed steps, a full step improvement compared to earlier EF 70-300mm lenses.

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens is expected to be available toward the end of October for an approximate retail price of $1,500.

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM is the sixth generation of the Canon 300mm f/2.8 lenses that first appeared in 1974. This lens features a lighter weight, improved Image Stabilization, and enhanced durability. The Image Stabilizer provides an equivalent of approximately four full shutter speed steps of shake compensation. Canon has enhanced the durability of this lens by using more magnesium alloy and titanium for lens barrel components, together with weather sealing for all exterior joints and switches. Additionally, a new security slot attachment has been included on this lens to allow a wire-type security lock to be easily affixed, a great safety feature for professionals shooting from high vantage points above arenas and crowds.

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $7,000.

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

Ideal for the professional sports photographer, Canon’s EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM is the fifth generation in Canon’s 400mm f/2.8 series and the successor to the current EF 400mm introduced in 1999. The new lens is lighter than its predecessor. The Image Stabilizer provides an equivalent of approximately four full shutter speed steps of shake compensation. Canon has enhanced the durability of this lens by using more magnesium alloy and titanium for lens barrel components, together with weather sealing for all exterior joints and switches. The new security slot attachment has also been included on this lens as well.

The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $11,000.

Canon Extender EF 1.4x III & Canon Extender EF 2x III

The Canon Extender EF 1.4x III & Canon Extender EF 2x III are direct replacements of the current extenders offered by Canon. They have been designed to provide faster autofocusing and improved AF precision with compatible EF lenses. Each extender features a newly developed microcomputer that increases AF precision when the extenders are used with a IS Series II EF super-telephoto lens.  Both extenders are equipped with rubber gaskets and seals to enhance weather resistance.

The Canon Extender EF 1.4x III & Canon Extender EF 2x III are expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $500 each.

For more information, go to www.cusa.canon.com.

The Vintage Delish presets cost $39. and can be purchased and downloaded from http://www.KubotaImageTools.com/VintageDelish.html.

Look for our review coming soon!

— Diane Berkenfeld

Nik Software today announced HDR Efex Pro, a completely new HDR imaging toolkit designed to help photographers quickly and easily achieve the full spectrum of HDR enhancements from the realistic to artistic.

High dynamic range or HDR photography is the process whereby you capture multiple exposures of a scene or subject (over- and under-exposing), and then align and merge them to generate a single image that enables a much wider range of colors, highlights, and shadows. According to Nik Software, HDR Efex Pro overcomes limitations in other software tools with a revolutionary all-in-one approach that enables both realistic and artistic effects to be applied within a single tool.

The plug-in is ideal for both pro and amateur photographers. HDR Efex Pro gives you single-click HDR imaging with categorized style presets, precise selective fine-tuning using Nik Software’s proprietary U Point technology, advanced alignment and ghost reduction, full access to shadow and highlight details, and new tone mapping algorithms. Color, contrast, and vignette controls enable you to further enhance your images to create amazing results.

HDR Efex Pro also lets you create the dramatic HDR look from a single image. This feature enables you to reprocess images in which either an exposure series was not previously shot or for subject matter that does not lend itself to multiple exposures, such as portraits or moving water.

Nik Software’s HDR Efex Pro plug-in works with Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Apple Aperture. HDR Efex Pro installs as a 32-bit or 64-bit plug-in for Photoshop CS3 or later, Lightroom 2.3 or later, or Aperture 2.1 or later.

Screenshot of an image in Nik Software's HDR Efex Pro. Image courtesy Nik Software.

The plug-in will be available in Q4 in both boxed delivery from photo specialty retailers select online and national resellers (complete list of Nik Software resellers may be found at www.niksoftware.com/resellers) and electronic download from the company’s website . MSRP for HDR Efex Pro is $159.95.

For more information, go to www.niksoftware.com.

— Diane Berkenfeld

Bokeh 2 accurately simulates the distinctive blurring and creamy highlights of real lenses. The company achieved this by working with lenses famous for their bokeh—including the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 and Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro.

New Features

This new version of the software also lets you render film grain to match the original photo, making the image look more natural. The plug-in also has been enhanced so you can see real-time changes to your image while working on it. Other new features include the ability to simulate the effects of tilt-shift lenses and add creative shapes to the highlights in your image. And the addition of factory presets means that new users can begin experimenting right out-of-the-gate.

The Bokeh 2 plug-in is compatible with Adobe Photoshop CS3 or later; Lightroom 2 or later; Photoshop Elements 7 or later; and Corel Paint Shop Pro Photo X3. For photographers using Windows-based PCs, you must have at least a Pentium 4 processor and Windows XP SP3 or later. For Mac users, an Intel processor and Mac OS X 10.5 or later is required. The plug-in works with the 64-bit version of Photoshop CS5 on both the Mac and PC. The company suggests a monitor with the resolution of 1024×768 be used.

Bokeh 2 retails at $199. Upgrades from Bokeh 1 will cost $99. For photographers who purchased Bokeh 1 in April 2010 or later, the upgrade will be free.

For more information go to www.alienskin.com.

Look for our review of Bokeh 2 in the near future!

— Diane Berkenfeld

The Sinar p-slr was designed for photographers who want to the advantages of working with a view camera and the convenience of a DSLR.

(l. to r.) Sinar p-slr with Nikon DSLR attached to shoot horizontal; Sinar p-slr with Canon DSLR attached, ready to shoot vertically.

Large format photography allows for the exact control of perspectives and selective sharpness which can be set and evaluated precisely on a view camera.

The modular Sinar p-slr allows photographers using Canon or Nikon bodies to add view camera movements and the use of Rodenstock or other medium/large format lenses to their photography. Adapters for other brands of DSLRs are available.

A quick locking adapter that comes with the Sinar p-slr allows photographers to switch between horizontal and vertical shooting in seconds. You can also shoot tethered to a computer as well as add an external monitor for easy viewing of images in a studio shooting environment.

A positioning- and centering aid serves for the exact positioning of the digital single lens reflex camera on the optical axis. That ensures that the sensor of the digital camera is positioned perfectly for vertical as well as horizontal exposures. This function is essential for making full use of the advantages of the view camera.

The Sinar p-slr joins such other large format cameras that offer incorporation of 35mm DSLRs such as Horseman and Cambo cameras.

MSRP for the Sinar p-slr is just under $8,000.

For additional information, visit www.bronimaging.com.

— Diane Berkenfeld

An editor’s job is never done, and today—which at the time I’m writing this—is only about 40 minutes old is no exception. Scouring the internet while watching TV late yesterday I came upon a mention of a possible new camera introduction by Nikon. Intrigued, I decided to go onto the Nikonrumors.com website and found not only a DSLR was expected today, but four lenses as well. Figuring that no leaks would appear so close to midnight, I checked the Nikonusa.com and Nikon.com websites regardless. At 12-midnight exactly I was finally rewarded when the pages I’d seen on both sites updated to include the D3100 and four new lenses.

Notice the screenshot on the left, captured at approximately 11:00pm, Wednesday, August 18 and the lonely area at the bottom right corner. Now look at the screenshot on the right, which was taken at 12:01am on Thursday, August 19, revealing the addition of the D3100 to Nikon's lineup of DSLRs. These screenshots were captured off of the Nikon.com website.

Drumroll please… The brand new equipment includes the D3100 DSLR body and AF-S DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR, AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR and AF-S 85mm f/1.4G lenses.

Newly announced Nikon D3100 DSLR with the 18-55 kit lens attached.

14MP D3100 DSLR

The D3100 is designed as an easy-to-use and affordable camera by the press release Nikon distributed at 12:01am. The camera features a DX-format CMOS sensor with14.2MP in resolution, full HD video capture and the new EXPEED 2TM image processing engine. The camera offers photographers full time AF in Live View and D-Movie mode—and according to Nikon, it is the first DSLR offering full time AF while shooting video.

Other features of the D3100 include an 11-point AF system, ISO range of 100 to 3200, expandable to 12,800, an enhanced Guide Mode that offers step-by-step assistance for newbie DSLR users, a 3-inch LCD, and Face Detection that can lock focus on a whopping 35 faces, among other features. The D3100 records images to SD media and is compatible with the SDXC memory card format. The camera also supports use of the Eye-Fi wireless media card.

Like other Nikon cameras, the D3100 incorporates such proprietary Nikon technologies as Active D-Lighting, Nikon’s Scene Recognition system, in-camera Retouch Menu, and more.

The D3100 features Nikon’s Integrated Dust Reduction System, and a shutter tested to 100,000 cycles.

The camera features a Quiet Shutter Release mode, which allows photographers to be as unobtrusive as possible, as it reduces the sound of the mirror flipping up and down while shooting.

The Nikon D3100 D-SLR gives users the ability to capture Full HD, 1080p resolution movies, in cinematic quality 24p video clips, or shoot at 24 or 30 frames-per-second at 720p. Movies are recorded in the H.264 AVCHD codec (.mov file) format. The camera can be connected to HDTVs via the HDMI port, for viewing of both movie and still images.

Pricing and Availability

The D3100 D-SLR camera outfit, including the AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR kit lens, is scheduled to be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in mid September 2010, at an estimated selling price of $699.95.

Lenses Too

Nikon also announced the addition of four new lenses to the Nikkor line—one DX lens, designed for the smaller DX image sensor and three lenses designed for use with both the full frame FX and smaller DX format sensors.

Nikkor AF-S DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens

The AF-S DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR

The AF-S DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is an ideal complement to the kit lens that is available with DSLRs such as the newly announced D3100. Additional features include a Tripod Detection Mode, which allows users to keep VR image stabilization activated and automatically compensates for minute vibrations when mounted on a tripod.

Additionally, a High Refractive Index (HRI) lens element is implemented to keep the lens compact while offering high contrast even at maximum aperture. The optical construction consists of two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) Elements that effectively minimize chromatic aberration, even at the widest aperture settings.

Nikkor AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens

AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

The AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is Nikon’s first FX-format lens with a 10.7X zoom range for both enthusiasts and pros. The lens has an equivalent focal length of 42-450mm when attached to a DX-format DSLR.

It’s optical formula includes two ED glass elements that effectively minimize chromatic aberration, even at the widest aperture settings, and three Aspherical Lens Elements that virtually eliminates coma and other aberrations at wide aperture settings as well.

This lens also incorporates an M/A Focus Mode Switch that enables quick changes between manual and autofocus operation, and Internal Focus (IF) providing fast and quiet autofocus without changing the length of the lens while retaining working distance through the focus range.

AF-S 24-120mm f/4 G ED VR

Nikkor AF-S 24-120mm f/4 G ED VR lens

The AF-S 24-120mm f/4 G ED VR zoom lens maintains a constant maximum aperture of f/4 throughout the entire zoom range. The 24-120mm f/4 also features two ED elements, three aspherical lens elements, a M/A Focus Mode Switch, Internal Focus and Nano Crystal Coat to reduce ghosting and flare for greater image clarity throughout the entire frame.

AF-S 85mm f/1.4G ED

Nikkor AF-S 85mm f/1.4G lens

The AF-S 85mm f/1.4G ED is an ultra-fast classic portrait prime lens boasting amazing picture quality, high performance and the ability to create dramatic background effects (bokeh). The AF-S 85mm f/1.4 is optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness on both FX and DX-format D-SLR cameras, and features two focus modes, M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual) to further enhance versatility and adapt to a shooters needs.

Additional features include Internal Focus (IF) that allows the lens to focus without changing the barrel length, Nano Crystal Coat to reduce instances of ghosting and flare, and a rugged construction build to endure aggressive field use.

Pricing and Availability

The AF-S Nikkor DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6 VR lens has an estimated selling price of $399.95; the AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm f/4 G ED VR has an estimated selling price of $1049.95; the AF-S Nikkor 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR zoom lens has an estimated selling price of $1,299.95; and the AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G has an estimated selling price of $1,699.95. These four lenses will be available starting in September.

For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

Canon U.S.A. has announced a new studio version of the popular 7D DSLR. Today the company introduced the EOS 7DSV (studio version), which is designed for school and event photography. The camera was also introduced with a new optional Canon barcode solution. The EOS 7DSV DSLR Camera features four levels of “locking” camera controls. By giving administrators the ability to “lock” the camera, unwanted features can be disabled. This would give a studio the ability to ensure each photographer’s work is reliable and repeatable.

The camera has four different “lock” levels allowing administrators to enable the appropriate level of camera functionality for any studio operation. Custom functionality is also achieved through each level by unlocking individual features according to operator-specific needs. This complete level of control is guarded by a daily password preventing anyone with a different vision from changing the camera settings and disrupting the overall project and workflow.

Add the barcode solution and customer data is linked directly to the image file. This is highly desired by school photographers but can also be beneficial to forensic and medical photo workflows as well as event and even catalog photography.

Once the barcode option is enabled, customer, organizational, patient and/or other data will be embedded directly into the image file’s EXIF data by scanning a barcode for easy identification when reviewing the completed work. While shooting, the actual reading of barcodes can be easily managed and, based upon each person’s workflow, the critical task of file management is accomplished with less risk of error. Upon completion, a visual confirmation will appear on the camera’s rear LCD screen.

“We know professional photographers are constantly searching for ways to simplify the workflow process,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “With the addition of the new EOS 7D Studio Version camera, professionals and business owners can be confident that data management will be streamlined and they can focus on the current task at hand.”

The EOS 7D Studio Version kit includes Canon’s WFT-E5A unit, which along with the optional barcode reader can scan and seamlessly manage image and customer data through a “wired connection”. A wireless system configuration is also possible through Canon’s BU-30 Bluetooth adapter. Existing WFT-E5A units require a firmware update to work with Barcode functionality. According to Canon, this firmware update will need to be done at a Canon USA Factory Service location. However, once you choose this option, the ability to read and embed GPS data will no longer function.

The EOS 7D and EOS 7DSV feature 18MP resolution utilizing an APS-C sized CMOS image sensor and Canon’s proprietary Dual DIGIC 4 image processors. The cameras utilize a 19-point AF system, Live View, ISO range up to 12800, and new iFCL Metering. The 7D/7DSV can also capture full HD video. Ruggedly built, the cameras utilize a magnesium alloy body that is dust- and weather-resistant; and the shutter durability is guaranteed up to 150,000 cycles. The cameras are compatible with over 60 Canon EF and EF-S lenses, in addition to other EOS system accessories.

The new EOS 7DSV Barcode Kit (EOS 7DSV and WFT-E5A with firmware change) will carry an estimated selling price of $ $2,599. The EOS 7DSV Body only will carry an estimated selling price of $1,829. Both are available by special order through select Canon authorized dealers.

The following Barcode Scanners are compatible; Honeywell 3800, Honeywell 3820, for scanning via bluetooth and Honeywell 4600, for scanning 1D and 2D barcodes.

Email all inquiries and questions regarding Canon’s EOS 7D Studio Version DSLR or Canon’s Barcode Solution to ProSolutions@cusa.canon.com.

For all other information, go to www.cusa.canon.com.

— Diane Berkenfeld

Nikon F Mount Lens will be Available to Photographers August 26

Earlier this week, Tamron announced the release of its anniversary model SP 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens featuring VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization and an ultrasonic auto-focus drive –– USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive). The SP 70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di VC USD (Model A005) high-resolution DSLR telephoto zoom lens will be available in the Nikon F mount on August 26, 2010. The company says Canon and Sony mount SP 70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di VC USD lenses will follow.

The lens is designed for use with cameras utilizing either a full-frame image sensor or the smaller APS-C sensor. When used on a camera with an APS-C sensor, the zoom range will be equivalent to 109-465mm. In addition to using the lens on full autofocus, the lens can be focused manually on-the-fly simply by the photographers adjusting the focus ring. No need to change modes on the lens first. The maximum aperture of the lens is f/4-5.6 and the minimum aperture is f/32-45. The lens’ minimum focusing distance is 59.1-inches. The filter size of the SP 70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di VC USD lens is 62mm.

For more information, go to www.tamron.com.

— Diane Berkenfeld

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(l. to r.) Pentax K-x in Bright Blue, Orange, Purple, Green.

The new colors of the Pentax K-x DSLR: (l. to r.) Olive, Pink, Beige, Chocolate.

(l. to r.) Originally the K-x was introduced in Red, White and Navy. These colors are still available.

The K-x is an entry level body, designed to be small, affordable and easy to use. The K-x DSLR features a 12.4MP CMOS sensor with sensor-shift Shake Reduction image stabilization, the ability to capture widescreen HD video in 720p resolution, true HDR (high dynamic range) image capture that blends three bracketed images into a single photograph, the Pentax Prime II image processing engine and much more. The camera is powered by AA lithium batteries and is also compatible with AA Ni-MH rechargeable and alkaline batteries.

For more information, go to www.pentaximaging.com.

— Diane Berkenfeld