Nikon D4S officially out in March

So the after months of speculations, rumours and "leaks" the D4S is on its way, coming in at a head spinning £5,200, but with some rather nice enhancements including an industry leading ISO of (extendable) 409,600! Also updated are a redesigned 16.2-megapixel FX sensor and the Expeed 4 image processor, a burst rate of 11 frames per second at full resolution, and is protected by “a tough weather-sealed full metal body."

From Nikon: Nikon today announces the D4S, a new 16.2 megapixel FX-format flagship built to keep professionals ahead of the game.

The ultimate imaging machine has advanced: as the successor to Nikon’s acclaimed D4, everything about the D4S powers exceptional images at exceptional speed. An expanded ISO range and EXPEED 4 image processing take low light photography to another level, making the D4S a master of the dark as well as the light. Advances to AF performance offer improved acquisition and tracking at 11 fps, plus much finer control over the AF area with the new Group Area AF mode. Nikon’s RAW Size S file format accelerates image transfer onto networks and a Gigabit 100/1000TX Ethernet port enables ultra-fast connection.

Hiro Sebata, Professional Product Manager at Nikon UK, comments:

"The Nikon D4S follows the success of the D4 and brings with it a new level of performance designed to meet the needs of the most demanding photographers.”

He adds: “Nikon engineers have taken on board valuable feedback from professional users in order to implement a wealth of improvements that will make all the difference to professionals working in the intensely competitive fields of sports, press, and nature photography. Equipped to power ahead in the most challenging environments, the D4S ensures serious photographers stay ahead of the game.”

Built upon success

Moving beyond the limits its predecessor was built to push, the D4S blazes a new trail for high-speed professional image making. The camera’s revamped sensor offers the ultimate image quality, and the expanded ISO range of 100–25600 is extendable up to an industry-leading 409600 (equivalent). Nikon’s new EXPEED 4 image processing engine boosts the camera’s overall performance to a whole new level, vastly improving image rendering and ISO performance. A true master of the dark as well as of the light, sophisticated localised noise reduction, edge sharpening and tone control ensure the D4S delivers outstanding results in the kind of ‘dirty’ low light conditions many sports and news photographers are confronted with. The burst rate of 11 fps is not compromised by ISO settings or lens choice, and details are rendered sharp and exceptionally well defined even when Noise Reduction filtering is applied. As with the D4, the D4S is built to sustain peak performance in the most demanding environmental conditions imaginable. The camera is protected by a tough weather-sealed full metal body, and features subtle details that make all the difference to handling: changes to button layout and re-shaped control buttons improve operation in damp conditions whilst the re-contoured design and smoother grip make it easier to hold out in the field.

Full throttle: stop at nothing

Everything about the D4S is built around the need for speed. In a world where the speed of transmission and networking has become as important as megapixels and ISO settings, the D4S delivers on every count. The frame-per-second with autofocus tracking has increased from 10 fps to 11 fps, making the D4S the fastest autofocus D-SLR-camera in Nikon’s history. The camera implements a Gigabit 100/1000TX Ethernet port and offers a new RAW Size S option for accelerated image transfer. When milliseconds matter, the shutter’s 42 ms lag can gain you the critical edge, taking pictures in less than the blink of an eye; and a completely new shutter and mirror mechanism reduces mirror bounce, delivering a stable viewfinder image with minimal viewfinder blackout when shooting at high speed.

Bettering the best: AF advances

The D4S takes the class-leading accuracy and usability of Nikon’s renowned 51-point AF system and advances it further. In addition to improved lock-on, expanded ‘Store by orientation’, and new options for AF mode restrictions, the D4S boasts a brand new Group Area AF mode. Designed to allow much finer control over the size of the autofocus area, Group Area AF constantly monitors five different AF fields, which can be shifted across the 51-point array as composition demands. Shooting in this mode enables fast moving subjects to be tracked with phenomenal precision over long distances, and greatly improves acquisition and background isolation when shooting subjects that are comparatively small and close to a high-contrast or distracting background. As with the D4, the AF system inside the D4S is configurable in 9-point, 21-point and 51-point coverage settings and sensitive down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20°C/68°F).

Multi-area D-Movie evolves

For moviemaking in diverse conditions, the D4S offers broadcast-quality video in multiple frame formats and boasts a range of operational enhancements that allow more control over footage while filming and improve sound recording. D-movies are now possible at 50p/60p, and photographers can set sensitivity and select maximum ISO in M mode, plus select the sensor crop format, control power aperture, and fix shutter speed. In addition, Nikon’s 3D noise reduction reduces random noise and noise flicker when filming at high sensitivities. As with the D4, the D4S offers three sensor crop formats, FX, DX, and native crop (approximately 2.7x), and uncompressed full-resolution HDMI output to external devices. You can simultaneously record full resolution HD movies in-camera and with an external recorder via HDMI (an HDMI cable clip is provided with the camera for a secure connection). Sound recording has improved thanks to more options for audio control, including the option to select the sound range (wide/voice), and reduce wind noise when recording with the built-in microphone.

Summary of key features:

- Revamped 16.2-MP FX-format sensor: offers the ultimate in image quality and excellent cropping flexibility.

- Phenomenal light sensitivity: ISO range of 100–25600 is extendable up to an industry-leading 409600 (equivalent).

- 11 FPS with AF: 11 fps in FX format with AE/AF superior to the D4.

- EXPEED 4: boosts the camera’s overall performance to a whole new level.

- Multi-CAM3500FX 51-point AF system configurable in 9-point, 21-point and 51-point coverage settings and sensitive down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20°C/68°F).

- AF advances: improved lock-on, new options for AF mode restrictions, plus the new Group Area AF mode.

- Multi-area D-Movie: Full HD (1080p) movies in FX- and DX-format at 60p/50p/30p/ 25p/24p frame rates. Offers three sensor crop formats FX, DX and native crop (approximately 2.7x) and clean HDMI-out. Access the ISO range from ISO 200 up and control shutter speed, aperture and audio levels while filming. Nikon’s 3D noise reduction reduces random noise, and the camera offers sophisticated options for audio control.

- Tough in the field: weather-sealed full metal body.

- Fast track: Gigabit 100/1000TX Ethernet port and RAW Size S file format for accelerated image transfer. Compatible with Nikon’s WT-5 Wireless Transmitter.

- Colour adjustable monitor: anti-reflective 8 cm (3.2-in.), 921k-dot LCD monitor that lets you push the colour balance and brightness in any direction.

- Fast durable shutter: Kevlar/carbon fibre-composite shutter unit with 42 ms shutter lag, standard life cycle rating of 400,000 releases and a shutter speed of 1/8000 to 30s, with flash synchronization at up to 1/250 sec. A new shutter and mirror mechanism delivers a stable viewfinder image with minimal blackout during high-speed shooting.

- Spot White Balance metering: easily acquire manual, pre-set White Balance data based on the selected area within the frame: the size of the area acquired can be retained even when the image is enlarged, and consecutive data acquisition is possible.

- High-capacity EN-EL18a battery: ultra-compact and lightweight lithium-Ion rechargeable battery with a capacity of 2500 mAh (10.8V).

- Storage media: two card slots—one for high-speed CF (UDMA 7) cards, and one for high-speed, high-capacity XQD cards.

On sale at selected retailers from 6th March 2014

Fuji X100 Firmware upgrade

So Fuji released a new firmware upgrade (2.00) for the X100 today (or recently anyway!).
I have the X100 about 18 months now and its a fantastic little camera, made even better with each firmware upgrade.

The firmware update Ver.2.00 form ver.1.30 incorporates the following issues:

1. Improvement of AF speed Approximately 20% faster AF speed is achieved in various conditions such as bright scenes, dark scenes and changed focus distance compared to the previous firmware version. 

2. Improvement of close-up focus performance The focus distance from the lens surface without switching to macro mode is approximately 30% shorter compared to previous firmware version. 

3. "Focus Peak Highlight" function for manual focusing is added. The function, which features on FUJIFILM X100S and X20, is added and assists accurate and sensitive manual focusing by enhancing the outline of your subject in high contrast. * With this update, "Focus Peak Highlight" function is selected as a default setting. Pressing the center of the command dial for a while enables you to switch the setting of "Focus Peak Highlight" and "STANDARD" (off of "Focus Peak Highlight"). And "MF ASSIST" is added in SHOOTING MENU where you can select "HIGH" and "LOW" in "Focus Peak Highlight" and "STANDARD". 

4. Improved manual focus operation This makes it easier to capture the peak of the focus by displaying the image with shallow depth of field, using open aperture, when adjusting the focus with the electronic view finder or the LCD. 

5. Faster start-up time The camera start-up time is shortened by approximately 0.2 second with QUICK START mode OFF. 

6. Improved operability of selecting focus area Previously, the focus area was selected while holding the AF button on the back. With the upgraded firmware, pressing the AF button will switch to the focus area selection screen and the area of your choice can then be selected. 

7. The phenomenon is fixed that a camera will automatically turn off during "Bulb (B)" shooting with the "CONTINUOUS" setting in "IMAGE DISP."

Its bucketing down outside so I've only had a quick little look at the improvements listed above, heres what I've noticed (also the more important improvements for me):

• AF much faster, and better in low light
• MF ring is now useable
• Much faster start up, for me its gone from "come on, come on, come on" to "oh its on"!

Upgrade here.

Fuji Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic

I first came across this nice little camera from Fuji a few months back when it got its release in Japan. Over the last week or two there has been lots of talk on websites and blogs about its official worldwide release, which is still looking like will be early next year. MSRP in the US will be $199, no news yet on other regions. A pack of 20 exposures (ISO 800) is set to cost $20.

The camera itself is a nice looking thing, its look fitting in with their recent X range, to use a word I hate "retro". But this is a film camera, as its name suggests, instant film, somewhere around the size of business card.

It has some nice features, a flash, a tripod mount, double exposure option, macro (30-60cm), shutter speed including bulb, and a party mode where background and ambient light doesn't get totally destroyed by the flash.

I love Fuji, have a very old Fuji SLR and the X100, they make great products. The price of the Mini I would like to see maybe 20/25% lower, but obviously not having seen one let alone use one it might well be worth the asking price. 

I'd like to have a mini instant camera in the collection, good job this comes out after Christmas!

http://www.fujifilm.com/products/instant_photo/cameras/instax_mini_90

LowePro Roller 100 AW

After a lot of researching (a number of LowePro's & Think Tank's) I decided on the LowePro Roller 100 AW, its a little bit small for me but it is regulation carry on size, even for the "budgetest" of airlines (i.e. Ryanair!) and other smaller domestic flight operators.

             

Delivery took two weeks, and I was like a little kid on Christmas morning waiting for this (currently no commuting to work means a lot more time in the day)! It finally arrived and I couldn't be more happy with it, realistically fits all the gear I need, sturdy, its a roller!! And like all LowePro bags with the AW - All Weather, it has a weather jacket than is stored in the handle pocket for when it rains. A padlock can be put on the zip, and theres some nice front pockets for quick access to travel documents, photograph release forms etc.

The wheels are sturdy but if do need replacing, only require an Allen key. It can take upto an 11" laptop, I don't have a laptop at present, but I'm hoping at a squeeze it will take a larger one, not the end of the world if it doesn't. 

Fits (as per the LowePro website):

• 1 Pro DSLR or 1-2 Pro DSLRs without grip, with attached 70-200mm f/2.8 lens
• 3-4 extra lenses
• Flash
• Spare batteries and memory cards
• Up to an 11" laptop or tablet
• Extra accessories or personal items

Technical Specifications:

• Notebook Compartment: 33.3 x 1.9 x 24.8 cm (13.11 x 0.75 x 9.76 in)
• Internal Dimensions: 33.7 x 12.7 x 40 cm (13.27 x 5.00 x 15.75 in)
• External Dimensions: 35.6 x 18.4 x 47.6 cm (14.02 x 7.24 x 18.74 in)
• Weight: 3.5 kg (7.70 lbs)

My use:
I used some extra velcro dividers I had from my other bags to divide the bag up a bit more than the provided dividers allowed. This fits pretty much everything I need except my large reflector, but once all airlines allow this as carry on, I'm more than happy.

• Nikon D700 + 85mm lens
• Fuji X100
• Nikkor 14-24mm, 24-70mm, 50mm
• Nikon Speedlight SB800
• 2 x Cactus triggers
• Nikon & Fuji chargers
• AA batteries
• Camera batteries
• Memory card case
• Memory  card reader
• Blower
• Cables (flash, power)
• Torch, Monocular, pocket tripod (for Fuji), lens & body caps, mp3 player
• And other smaller bits in the pocket on the left of the photo

Pros

• Meets all airline carry on specs
• Sturdy, well padded
• Its a roller!
• Adjustable layout
• Handle can be hidden away
• Side handles
• All weather cover
• Front pockets

Cons

• Given that its airline regulation size, I can't really put lack of laptop space as a con

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

Magnum Contact Sheets

This is the coffee table book of coffee table books, coming in at 508 pages, 13.9 x 11.6 x 1.9 inches and a hefty 9.7 pounds, 139 contact sheets from 69 photographers. It's beautifully put together, even the cover is like a package you would find in the darkroom.

I'm old enough to remember when there wasn't the choice for digital or analogue so remember well the negative and contact sheet process, and in some ways it was more satisfying than my current process in the digital age, but in others its not all that different at all, analogue & digital workflow processes have adapted rather than changed.

Most of the photos that people recognize were taken by a Magnum photographer, and I don't think the history of Magnum could have been put together any better than this.

Showing not just "the shot" but the shots that were discarded, and information behind the shot. There is varying sizes of the negatives (35mm, slide, large format, b&w, colour), and with a page at 13.9 x 11.6 inches, there is plenty of room for displaying the contact sheets, and full page shots look fantastic.

Photos included go from 1930 (actually before Magnum was set-up) right up to 2010, and include portraits of likes of Che Guevara, Martin Luther King, JFK, Thatcher, Mother Teresa, Muhammad Ali, documentation of wars, events, massacres, riots, uprisings, disasters and general life. Interesting extras such as comments, notes, press passes and of course details behind the shot from the photographers themselves.

If you are a photographer you will love this, if you are a photojournalist (professional or otherwise) you need this!

Edited by Kristen Lubben, Associate Curator at the International Center of Photography in New York.

http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/Magnum-Contact-Sheets-Kristen-Lubben/9780500543993

Format: Hardback
Number of pages: 508
Width: 295 mm
Height: 348 mm
Thickness: 48 mm
Weight: 4,550 g

McCullin

Donald McCullin, CBE Hon FRPS (born 9 October 1935, Finsbury Park, London, England) is an internationally known British photojournalist, particularly recognized for his war photography and images of urban strife. His career, which began in 1959, has specialised in examining the underside of society, and his photographs have depicted the unemployed, downtrodden and the impoverished. (from wiki) 

A fantastic documentary from his start photographing the people of Finsbury Park, to Civil War in Cypress, The Congo, Vietnam, Lebanon. It was a different before (photo)journalists were officially  "embedded" and they took photos of what the saw and encountered, not just what they were shown. His accounts of what he saw are harrowing and he himself was scared he was becoming a "war junkie", seeing so much devastation that it started to not effect him. He talks of the people, soldiers, mercenaries he encountered. As well as the interview for the documentary, old snippets of interviews are used from news pieces to his appearance on Parkinson.

He speaks very openly and comes across as very honest and humble and you can clearly see how everything he has seen in his photographic life has effected him. When it finished, it didn't seem anywhere near the 90minute running time, always a good sign especially when it comes to documentaries. This is a must see for all, not just photographers, it really shows how much of the horrors of war just one man captured. 

He now lives in the English countryside and takes landscapes, a far cry from his days of putting his life on the line to show the world the horrors of war.

• Buy McCullin on DVD 
• Buy McCullin on Blu-Ray

Helmut Newton 10th Anniversary edition of Sumo

Who really needs an introduction to Helmut Newton?

Helmut Newton (31 October 1920 Berlin Germany - 23 January 2004 West Hollywood, California USA) was a German-Australian photographer famous for his fashion, nude and portrait photography at times even being known for his controversial work. His work has been featured in the likes of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and Playboy.

In 2005, his world famous photograph of Henriette Allais titled "Big Nude III" was sold at an auction for the world record price of $311,000.

SUMO was originally released limitedly in 1999, breaking all records for size, weight and resell price, going for thousands of dollars. Copy number one of the book autographed by over 100 of the books photographed celebrities sold at auction in April 2000 for record breaking whopping $430,000.

Luckily for most of with not so deep pockets, in 2009 this was re-released, smaller and somewhat more affordable (somewhere around the €80 mark).

Although smaller this is still one of the biggest books I have, I had to extend the shelve height to fit it, and at 7KG make sure its a solid shelf! Even with the shelf extension, I have to take other books of the shelf, and tilt it to get it on/off the there.

In fact it even comes with its own plexiglass reading stand, packaged together in a nice box with handle and all! It also comes with a little booklet on the making of the book. With pages being 26.7 x 37.4 cm, and a mixture of square, landscape and portrait photographs, they are all nice a big with some colour but the majority in black & white.

Photographs in the book cover all aspects of his work - portraits, nude and fashion, bringing together 40 years of his life's work - I think 450 photographs in all. Alot of the images are fashion shots for the likes of Vogue, others are more well known people in the fashion industry and movie stars such as Elizabeth Taylor, Catherine Devenue, Karl Lagerfeld, Dennis Hopper, Kate Moss, Winona Ryder, Naomi Campbell, Andy Warhol, Twiggy, Charlotte Rampling, Nicolas Cage, Daryl Hannah, Sigourney Weaver.

Who is this book for? Fashion, nude and portrait photographers. Taschen really out did themselves on this one, 7KG, 480 pages, 450 photographs, making of booklet, reading stand.

A great documentary on the making of the book can be found here.

Format: Hardback
Number of pages: 480
Width: 267 mm
Height: 374 mm
Thickness: 102 mm
Weight: 7,144 g
ISBN 13: 9783836517300
ISBN 10: 3836517302


Buy on Amazon