Read the article at: Gizmodo.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

“Le [Canon] 5D Mark III est-il le nouveau cru tant attendu ? En un mot : oui !“

We’ve added another Canon 5D Mark III [Specs] Review to our Reviews Matrix.

FocusNumérique has posted their review of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, a DSLR with 22.3MP resolution using a full-frame (24 x 36mm) CMOS sensor, ISO in the range of 100-25600 (expandable to ISO L:50, H1:51200 and H2:102400) with HD video capture at 1920×1080 pixels resolution for up to 30min recording time (no more 4GB per clip limit), an extra large 3.0-in. high resolution LCD (1040k-dot), Integrated Cleaning System, Live View for stills and video, 6fps continuous shooting, AF 61-point (up to 41 cross-type points), a approx. 100% coverage optical viewfinder, and an improved weather-resistant body.

You can read the Canon 5D Mark III Review @ FocusNumérique [Fr] | Google translation.

Related Links:

• Canon 5D Mark III Press Release
• Canon 5D Mark III Technical Specs

Olympus OM-D E-M5

“The OM-D E-M5 is the best Olympus compact system camera to date, and also a strong contender for best compact system camera full stop.“

We’ve added another Olympus OM-D E-M5 [QuickFact Sheet] review to our Reviews Matrix.

PhotographyBLOG has published their review of the Olympus OM-D E-M5, a Digital Interchangeable Lens Compact System Camera with 16.1MP resolution (on a 17.3 x 13.0 mm 4/3 Live MOS Sensor), Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, Dust Reduction, an extra large 3.0-in. Tilt/Touch OLED (610k-dot), Eye-level electronic viewfinder (approx. 1.44M-dot, 120fps refresh rate), Intelligent AUTO (auto scene recognition), PASM modes, Scene Modes, Art Filters, Shutter speed range of 60 – 1/4000 sec. plus Bulb, Continuous Shooting at 9fps, RAW file format, Digital Leveler, MF Assist, a hot shoe, Multiple Exposure, Wireless flash control, and Full 1080 HD Movie (1920×1080/60i) with stereo sound in a Magnesium-alloy and Aluminum construction coupled with advanced splash and dust protection.

Read the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Review @ PhotographyBLOG.

Related Links:

• Olympus OM-D E-M5 Press Release
• Olympus OM-D E-M5 Technical Specs

Fujifilm X-PRO1

Just Posted! Fujifilm X-Pro1 Review

The Fujifilm X-Pro1 is a rangefinder-styled digital camera that professional photographers are increasingly viewing as a DSLR replacement. Fujifilm touched raw nerves when it introduced this mirrorless DSLR that captures images with quality that rivals and even bests that from some enthusiast and top-end DSLRs.

[ Read more in our Fujifilm X-Pro1 Review... ]

Then you see pictures like this and wow, solar photography is a whole new realm to discover! Of course, most of the time you’d need a telescope, but today’s superzoom cameras (or a mirrorless equipped with a telephoto) are more than adequate. The Sun is also a BIG orb hanging up there in the sky and you do not need much telephoto reach to get a good picture.

But what of the warning about not looking directly at the sun? One thing you absolutely need is a special ND filter made specifically for solar photography. You should not be able to see anything through this filter except when you point it toward the sun. It reflects about reflect 99.999% of the light and let 0.001% through.

There will be an annular solar eclipse May 20, 2012 and a total solar eclipse November 13, 2012.

via bobgalbraith

The WallStreetJournal is reporting that Samsung is shifting its focus from low-end P&S to high-end compact mirrorless digital cameras. This is good news because we have seen what they are capable of with the NX series. More competition in the mirrorless category is good for consumers and, even though the Samsung brand may not be the first one you think of in cameras right now, I predict that is about to change as they size up the competition and push to become #1 in mirrorless. To achieve that, they need to match their offerings to whatever Fujifilm, Panasonic and Olympus are currently offering.

via sansmirror

BJP is reporting that Leica, who had previously promised they would be introducing a new compact mirrorless at Photokina on Spetember 17, 2012, has now backpedaled on that promise, citing a full plate of current projects. Leica is also reconsidering if this new system will be “compact.” The M10, though, is still slated for this year and may well see the addition of HD Video.

Read the articles at BJP: New mirrorless and M10.

I know it’s an ad, but it’s a good one. Except that, as usual, it forgets the moms who do not raise Olympic champions but are nevertheless champions themselves in their own rights, even more so because society does not recognize their efforts and sacrifices. The children do not bring home a medal, teachers complain of their inappropriate behavior in class, society rejects them. But their mothers know better and toil day in and day out to make the best of the situations and raise a responsible kid despite all the odds. There’s no thanks at the end of the day and no videos celebrate their achievements…. To all mothers of the earth, we salute you.

• DCRP (dcresource) finds that the Pentax K-01 [QuickPrice Check] “is a bulky yet stylish camera that offers excellent image quality when paired with a quality lens. The size and ergonomics are certainly not for everyone, and the autofocus is way too slow for action shooters.“
• Steve’s Digicams reviews the Canon PowerShot A4000 IS [QuickPrice Check] and finds that it “performed beyond our expectations for a sub $200 point-n-shoot.“
• DigitalCameraInfo likes the Fujifilm FinePix F750EXR [QuickPrice Check] as “a serious travel zoom with great control.“
• DPReview awards Gold to the Nikon D800 [QuickPrice Check] since it “excels in areas that require no extra effort on your part; notably its impressive high ISO performance, fast and accurate AF system and the wide dynamic range of its image files.“
• Imaging Resource reviews the Pentax Q [QuickPrice Check] and finds that “in terms of image quality, pitting the Q against the mirrorless competition is playing it against a stacked deck: it simply can’t win.“
• PhotographyBLOG recommends the Fujifilm FinePix F770EXR [QuickPrice Check] but cautions that “while the FinePix F770EXR advances Fujifilm’s travel-zoom vision in some ways, in others, most notably image quality and price, it represents a step backwards.“
• DigitalCameraReview loves the Olympus OM-D E-M5 [QuickFact Sheet] concluding that “if I were in the market for a mirrorless, interchangeable lens compact digital and was not wedded to any particular manufacturer or system, the [Olympus] E-M5 would probably be it.“
• ePHOTOzine highly recommends the Canon 5D Mark III [Specs] as “an excellent Digital SLR capable of excellent image quality and fast performance.“
• ePHOTOzine recommends the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V [QuickPrice Check] as “a feature packed travel zoom compact with good image quality.“
• For more camera reviews, to get a second opinion, and just to read the best reviews on the Web, visit our Reviews Matrix.

Isn’t it great when there are so many good cameras to choose from? Getting a headache? Maybe you’re not listening to the best expert reviewers on the Web! Visit our Reviews Matrix and get all the expert reviews written for your favorite digital camera. This way, you’ll make an informed decision based on the best reviews on the Web.

Leica S2 with S-Adapter H

PRESS RELEASE

LEICA CAMERA AG EXPANDS THE LEICA S PROFESSIONAL CAMERA SYSTEM

New Leica S-Adapter H Enables use of Hasselblad H Lenses on the Leica S2

Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) – Leica Camera AG presents a new accessory for the Leica S professional camera system: the Leica S-Adapter H. This adapter allows the portfolio of Hasselblad H-system lenses to be mounted onto a Leica S2 camera body with all lens functions, such as autofocus, central shutter control and automatic diaphragm, retained. The smart electronics of the adapter facilitate the complete integration of the lenses into the Leica S-System.

The Hasselblad H-system features a total of 11 central shutter lenses with focal lengths from 28 to 300 mm. As the S2 features a dual shutter system, users may toggle between the focal plane shutter (FPS) in the camera body or the central shutter (CS) in the lens utilizing the main switch. Photographers now have access to numerous additional lenses that increase the photographic options offered by the Leica S-System.

Hasselblad H-system users also benefit from the new adapter. The versatility of Hasselblad H lenses is expanded considerably when combined with an S2. For instance, as a result of the dual shutter system of the Leica S2, H lenses can be now used with the focal plane shutter at speeds of up to 1/4000th of a second. In combination with the Leica Maestro high-performance image processor, the camera’s image sensor enables perfect, noise-free exposures up to ISO 1250.

Furthermore, the DNG format of images from the S2 enables direct connection to Adobe Lightroom 4 workflow software and seamless data transfer to Adobe Photoshop. The dedicated lens correction profiles computed by Leica for both programs help photographers to achieve maximum performance from the H lenses. In cases of a longer shooting session with high image frequency, the S2 also offers significant advantages due to its low power consumption. The optional multifunctional grip S with separate controls is a particularly useful aid for optimum camera handling for portrait-format shots.

The Leica S-Adapter H is now available from Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC.

Leica APO Macro-Summarit-S 120mm f2.5 Telemacro

PRESS RELEASE

LEICA S-SYSTEM EXPANDED BY FIVE S-LENSES WITH CENTRAL SHUTTER: AVAILABLE FROM OCTOBER 2012

Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) – Leica Camera AG is expanding the product range for the Leica S professional camera system with five new central shutter lenses, available from October 2012. The new models are the Leica Elmarit-S 30 mm f/2.8 ASPH. and Leica Summarit-S 35 mm f/2.5 ASPH. wide-angle lenses, the Leica Summarit-S 70 mm f/2.5 ASPH. standard lens, the Leica APO-Macro-Summarit-S 120 mm f/2.5 tele-macro lens and the Leica APO-Tele-Elmar-S 180 mm f/3.5 telephoto lens, all of which will also be available in a CS version with a central shutter. Designed and constructed exclusively by Leica, the central shutter available for all S lenses is not only especially compact and efficient, but also has a guaranteed service life of at least 100,000 shutter cycles, making it extremely reliable.

The Leica S2-System features a dual shutter concept, allowing photographers to choose a shutter system to meet their needs and the particular situation before every shot. The camera body is constructed with a metal focal plane shutter offering a top speed of 1/4000th of a second and flash sync at 1/125th. The main switch on the S2 camera body allows users to rapidly change to central shutter use as soon as a CS lens is mounted. With a top speed of 1/1000th of a second, the central shutter offers a working range expanded by three f-stops. Users now have considerably more leeway for creative lighting, such as studio flash systems that may be used to suppress ambient light or to create fill light in bright surroundings at larger lens apertures. As a result of the seamless integration of the central shutter function in the camera’s electronics, photographers can switch rapidly between the two shutter systems at any time.

First and foremost in the development of all products is the consistent dedication to creating tools to fulfill the stringent demands of professional users of the Leica S medium format system in their everyday photographic work. The objective of the Leica S-System is to provide absolutely reliable equipment that guarantees extreme precision and a particularly long operational lifespan.

The new central shutter designed and constructed by the Leica engineers in Solms is a masterpiece of high-tech mechatronics. The Leica central shutter offers high performance and is so compact in size that it can be integrated without any problems in all S lenses. With a guaranteed life of over 100,000 shutter
cycles per lens, it is also extremely durable and dependable in constant use. For the first time, the dust- and splash-proof construction of the lenses and camera now makes it possible to use the system under difficult conditions for ‘on location’ shots with the central shutter without any fears of equipment failure.

The first shipments of the CS versions of the Leica S lenses to Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC will be available from October 2012.

Leica V-Lux 40

PRESS RELEASE

LEICA V-LUX 40: COMPACT CAMERA WITH AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF FEATURES

Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) – Leica Camera AG presents the V-Lux 40, a new addition to Leica’s digital compact camera portfolio. Incorporating numerous new features in comparison with its predecessor, the Leica V-Lux 30, this latest model offers greater performance of its 15.3-megapixel (effective 14.1 MP), 1/2.33″ CMOS sensor and a Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3–86 mm f/3.3–6.4 ASPH. lens with a zoom range now extended to 20×. As a result of the broadened range of focal lengths, now equivalent to 24 to 480 mm in 35-mm format, the Leica V-Lux 40 is a much more versatile camera. In addition, the LCD touch screen ensures the fast and simple handling of the camera. Its compact design, comprehensive functions and additional features, such as an integrated GPS module or video recording in full HD quality, make the V-Lux 40 the ideal companion for capturing lasting memories whether traveling the world or enjoying time with family at home.

The Leica V-Lux 40’s new 15.3-megapixel (effective 14.1 MP), 1/2.33″ CMOS image sensor guarantees outstanding picture quality in all situations. It enables a higher dynamic range as well as particularly low-noise images at sensitivities up to ISO 3200. In comparison to its predecessor, the Leica V-Lux 40 now offers significantly improved image quality, even in low light. Additionally, an autofocus speed of 0.1 seconds enables even faster focusing on moving subjects.

The enormous range of focal lengths covered by the V-Lux 40’s Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3–86 mm f/3.3–6.4 ASPH. zoom lens (equivalent to 24 to 480 millimeters in 35-mm format) makes it ideal for almost all photographic situations. For expansive landscapes, finely detailed macro studies at short distances or for shots of distant objects with its super-telephoto setting, this Leica lens with high-precision aspherical lenses and an image stabilizer delivers outstanding results for all still images and video recordings.

Leica V-Lux 40 Top View

The Leica V-Lux 40 offers a comprehensive range of camera functions. Users can choose from a diverse selection of creative imaging options, from a continuous shooting rate of ten frames per second at full resolution and 60 frames per second in high-speed mode, to creative modes with effects like miniature, panorama and retro.

Ideal for capturing video, the Leica V-Lux 40’s entire 20× zoom range is available during recording. In addition, an integrated stereo microphone with an electronic wind noise filter guarantees a crystal-clear soundtrack. Videos can now also be saved in Internet-friendly MP4 format and uploaded directly to social media or mobile devices, for example, without any need for conversion.

An integrated GPS module completes the list of features and functions offered by the V-Lux 40, allowing users to save the geographical coordinates and local time of every shot captured in the Exif data of the image files.* In addition, the camera can display the sightseeing highlights of the immediate neighborhood (1,000,000 so-called ‘points of interest’). A DVD included in the package contains maps of important cities and regions. After transfer to an SD memory card, these can be uploaded to the camera and used for orientation in unfamiliar places. Photos can be stored in the maps as thumbnail images.

Leica V-Lux 40 Back View

The new design of the Leica V-Lux 40 is dominated by classic black. Chromed elements set contrasting accents and complement the camera’s refined and timelessly elegant look. Particularly easy handling is ensured by a large, 3-inch LCD touch screen that allows users to select or set numerous functions in capture and review mode simply by touching controls displayed on the monitor screen. This oversized screen has a diagonal of 7.5 centimeters and its resolution of 460,000 pixels displays images with outstanding brilliance. As a result, the Leica V-Lux 40 is an ideal tool for reliable and precise assessment of images both during composition and after capture.

Leica V-Lux 40

The Leica V-Lux 40 is available now from Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC. The camera is supplied with an extensive software package comprised of Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 10 for still-image processing and Adobe® Premiere® Elements 10, designed especially for video processing. A strong and resilient leather case is also available as an optional extra.

* It is possible that GPS tagging may not function in the People’s Republic of China and neighboring regions. Satellite signal reception may be impossible, depending on the location. In such cases, the positioning data may be recorded inaccurately or not at all.

Related Links:

• Leica V-Lux 40 Technical Specs