Nikon introduces new DX-format DSLR D5300

From Professional Photographer magazine we hear about a new Nikon DSLR

On sale on 14 November, the D5300 is an upper entry-level DSLR. The camera’s 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor is specifically designed with no optical low-pass filter (OLPF) – the result being more detail and texture in images. Photos can be shared fast with its inbuilt Wi-Fi function which connects the camera directly to a smartphone or tablet, and the GPS function adds geo-tags to pictures in-camera. “This new model is bursting with impressive features, from the high ISO (12,800) capability for low light shooting, to the powerful new EXPEED 4 image processing engine, and large vari-angle screen for a unique view,” says Simon Iddon, senior product manager at Nikon. “Built-in Wi-Fi makes it easy to share stunning images with friends and family, plus you can have some fun by tracking your route thanks to the camera’s GPS functionality. Ultimately, the Nikon D5300 is a pleasure to use and raises the standard of images we share.”

The body only will cost £729.99 and the D5300 kit with 18-55mm VR lens, £829.99

FEATURES LISTED BY NIKON INCLUDE:Built-in Wi-Fi
Photos can be sent directly from the camera to any iOS or Android smart device – after you’ve downloaded the free wireless mobile utility – ready for easy upload to social networking sites like Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. The Wi-Fii function also makes it possible to control the camera remotely using a connected smart device, plus you can preview the scene you’re shooting on the smart device’s screen.Built-in GPS
The D5300’s built-in GPS integrates with the in-camera Wi-Fi function. Images can be geo-tagged simply, without using any external adapters, by logging location information such as latitude, longitude, and altitude in the image’s EXIF data. The GPS logger function works when the camera is turned off, so you can continue to keep track of your route when you’re not taking pictures. Nikon’s View NX 2 software can help create travel on social networking or photo-sharing sites that support GPS.Image quality
At the core of the D5300 is a 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor that has been designed without an optical low-pass filter (OLPF) to make the most of every megapixel, to render exactly what the lens sees.High ISO light sensitivity (up to 12,800, extendable to 25,600 equivalent) combined with Nikon’s new image processing engine, EXPEED 4, allows for better photos and movies when shooting in low light. The 2016-pixel RGB metering sensor sends data to the scene recognition system, enabling optimum auto exposure, AF and auto white balance. It has continuous shooting speeds of up to five frames-per-second and a 39-point AF system, which has nine cross-type sensors in the centre……MORE FROM PP

The always excellent DP Review site has a pre-view of this new camera

Tis the season for iterative updates, apparently. The D5300, Nikon’s second new DSLR in as many weeks comes less than a year after the announcement of its predecessor, the D5200, and while it doesn’t represent a massive upgrade to the older camera it is improved in some meaningful ways.

As Nikon’s ‘advanced beginner’ DSLR, the D5300 takes the D5200’s place between the entry-level D3200 and the enthusiast-targeted D7100 in the company’s APS-C lineup. The D5300 offers 24MP resolution (like its APS-C stablemates), an articulated rear LCD and more physical controls than the D3200, but without the twin-dial interface and professional grade AF system of the decidedly higher market (and much more customizable) D7100.

Both visually and ergonomically the D5300 is a near-clone of its predecessor (it’s fractionally lighter and a tiny bit smaller), but under the hood it is a stronger camera in a couple of important ways. The D5300’s 24MP sensor lacks an anti-aliasing sensor, which – if our experience with the D7100 and D800E is any guide – should give it the edge in terms of resolution over the D5200. We’d expect the difference to be subtle (especially with a kit zoom attached), but it’s always nice to see improvements to critical image quality potential, especially in mid-range models.

The D5300 also offers a beefed-up video mode, which is now capable of true 1080/60p HD video. This, plus the slightly enlarged (3.2in compared to 3in) fully-articulated 1.04 million-dot LCD screen should mean that the D5300 is attractive to videographers as well as stills photographers. Easy to miss, but useful features include built-in Wi-Fi and GPS – both firsts for Nikon’s DSLR lineup. Battery life gets a boost too – according to CIPA figures the D5300 offers an endurance of 600 shots, compared to 500 from the D5200. Remember though that this figure does not take features like Wi-Fi or GPS into account, and we’d expect both to have an impact on battery life.

READ MORE FROM DPR HERE

Nikon have their seasonal cash back offers when you buy new gear

Nikon UK is launching a bumper Christmas promotion, offering cashback on a huge amount of products including selected D-SLR cameras, selected lenses and speedlights, selected Nikon 1 cameras, as well as the EDG binocular range.The promotion is limited to one claim per person per product and will run from 16 October 2013 – 26 January 2014 (inclusive) and all claims must be received by 28 February 2014 in order to qualify. Details here

Sony Alpha NEX-6 Review

When it entered the mirrorless market with the NEX-3 and NEX-5 back in 2010, Sony, along with Panasonic and Olympus, saw vast potential to attract the millions of compact camera users who wanted better image quality but without the bulk of a DSLR. Today, however, as the smartphone market continues to erode compact camera sales we see camera makers increasingly turning their attention to a smaller – but potentially more eager – group. Namely, enthusiasts who want a lighter, more compact DSLR alternative, but still demand the level of customization and camera control to which they’ve grown accustomed.

Accordingly, the past couple of years have seen a rash of high-end interchangeable lens cameras like theSony NEX-7, Olympus OM-D E-M5, Panasonic DMC-GX1 and Fujifilm X-E1, which in both price and feature set are aimed well beyond point and shoot upgraders (ironically, the constituency that was originally supposed to be most profitable for ILC manufacturers).

With the announcement of the NEX-6, Sony appears to be refining the high-end concept by merging much of the technology from the NEX-7 with the connectivity options of the NEX-5R. In essence, the NEX-6 combines the hallmarks of an enthusiast-oriented camera – control dials and a high-quality viewfinder – with Wi-Fi functionality and apps. Oddly though, considering it has created a camera that is obviously designed to appeal to smartphone owners, Sony has removed the touchscreen operation found in the NEX-5N and 5R.

FROM THE EVER EXCELLENT DP REVIEW, SEE THE WHOLE ARTICLE HERE

Sony NEX-6 specification highlights

• 16.1MP APS-C format CMOS sensor
• 2.3 million dot resolution OLED EVF
• ISO 100-25600
• Control dial
• Customizable Fn button
• ‘Quick Navi’ interactive settings display
• Multi interface hotshoe (supports standard contacts and proprietary connector)
• Built-in Wi-Fi for connection to smartphones or computers, for photo sharing
• Proprietary in-camera apps
• Built-in flash (GN 6, ISO 100)
• Electronic First Curtain shutter
• 1080/60p HD movies in AVCHD (50p on PAL region models)

Canon 6D First Review

Hot on the heels of the new Nikon D600 comes the Canon 6D, bit like buses…. Calumet Photo are quoting about £1800 for the body only

The 6D is apparently not a replacement for the 5D but a stable mate designed with features for landscape, travel and outdoor photographers. It is lighter than the 5D so easier to carry around and has geo-location GPS facilities so you can tag images with their exact location and built in wifi for transmitting and sharing images. Here are some details

A 20.2-megapixel DSLR featuring a full-frame sensor and compact design. Ideal for portrait, landscape and travel photography, offering tight control over depth of field and a large choice of wide-angle EF lenses.

• Enjoy the full-frame advantage with a 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, for a wider choice of wide-angle lenses, great image quality, and more depth-of-field control
• Tough magnesium-alloy body and compact design
• Great in low-light. Shoot at max ISO 25,600 (expandable to ISO 102,400) and with precise AF, even in conditions as dark as -3EV
• Follow the action with 11-point AF and 4.5 fps shooting
• Built-in GPS geotags images with location
• Wirelessly control and download from your camera with built-in Wi-Fi • 14-bit DIGIC 5+ processor for accurate colour reproduction
• Shoot Full-HD video
• Live View composition on a 1,040,000-dot 7.7cm (3.0″) ClearView LCD screen
• 
• The ever reliable people at DP Review have a full preview available here

The EOS 6D is best seen as a full frame version of the EOS 60D – indeed it’s very similar in both control layout and dimensions. Its front profile is very similar to the Nikon D600, but it’s rather slimmer front-to-back, and lighter too. However it differs from the Nikon in a number of key respects; for example it has Wi-Fi and GPS built-in, while the D600 offers a distinctly higher spec’ed autofocus system, dual card slots and a built-in flash.

The EOS 6D is built around a new Canon CMOS sensor, which offers a pixel count of 20.2MP (compared to the D600 and A99’s 24MP, or the 5D Mark III’s 22MP). In concert with the DIGIC 5+ processor it offers a standard ISO range of 100-25600, expandable down to 50 and up to 102,400. The AF system has 11 points, but only the central one is cross-type (i.e. sensitive to both vertical and horizontal detail). However according to Canon to will operate at extremely low light levels; right down to -3 EV – a stop dimmer than the 5D Mark III.

The EOS 6D’s most eye-catching additions are integrated GPS and Wi-Fi – their first appearance on a Canon SLR. The GPS unit includes exactly the same functionality as on the company’s compacts – it can embed location data into every image, and has a logging function that can keep track of where you’ve been through the day. This, we suspect, will be most-popular with landscape and travel photographers.

The integrated Wi-Fi unit has the basic functionality you might expect, allowing transfer of images to a smartphone or tablet, and direct upload to social media sites such as Facebook and YouTube. You can also send images directly to a Wi-Fi-enabled printer. But we think more photographers are likely be interested by the fact that it can also be used to turn your smartphone into a wireless remote control via Canon’s EOS Remote app for iOS or Android, complete with live view and full control of exposure settings.

The EOS 6D gains Canon’s silent shutter mode that we saw on the 5D Mark III, which offers quieter, more discreet shooting. It gets in-camera HDR and Multiple Exposure modes, but disappointingly these are JPEG only, unlike on the 5D Mark III that also records RAW files. There’s also a single-axis electronic level to check for wonky horizons. READ THE FULL PREVIEW

You may find this comparison site useful as well as the DP Review pages, this lists the differences between the Nikon D600 and the Canon 6D

Nikon D600 Released September 18th

New cameras come along at an alarming rate, is it true that we are expected to buy a new camera every three years, I am sure I read that somewhere. There is no doubt that as technology improves daily it is very tempting to want the latest and best, not because it is the latest but because we can produce better images under more difficult conditions. One thing I don’t particularly like about the march of technology is the way that the camera manufacturers always seem to want to wrest control from us, the photographers, and have us use their, the cameras, automatic functions more. The idea seems to be that the camera knows best and can make better judgements about the picture we are about to take. WRONG. A camera that delivers better quality, images with smoother tone, less noise, better colour, able to handle subject brightness range better, all the things that make an image just better are to be applauded but e.g. some auto focus gizmo that means it is harder for me to focus where I want is not a help, it is a hindrance.

There is a new Nikon camera that will no doubt have many salivating. It is a full frame dslr 24 megapixel with HD video, sounds like a competitor for the Canon 5D.

Here is a bit from a Nikon website The D600 is a new model added to the Nikon FX-format digital SLR lineup with a smaller size and lighter weight–approx. 141 x 113 (H) x 82 (D) mm, 760 g*¹ for excellent portability, yet offers the superior image quality and rendering performance, operation, and durability of high-end FX-format D-SLRs. The D600 is a compact and lightweight camera that offers excellent cost performance. In addition to a new FX-format CMOS image sensor with an effective pixel count of 24.3-million pixels and the same EXPEED 3 image-processing engine built into high-end models, the D600 inherits a number of advanced features from its high-end cousins, including an optical viewfinder with frame coverage of 100%*², a large and clear, 3.2-inch LCD monitor with a wide viewing angle for superior visibility, and the same dust- and water-resistance as the D800

The best go to site for camera reviews DP Review only has a preview so far but anything they have to say is always worth reading, you can find that here

Nikon D600: Key Specifications

• 24.3MP Full-frame CMOS sensor (10.5MP DX-format crop mode)
• ISO 100-6400 (expandable to ISO 50-25,600 equivalent)
• Maximum 5.5fps continuous shooting
• 39-point AF system with 9 cross-type AF points
• 3.2in 921k-dot LCD screen
• 1080p30 full HD video mode with stereo sound recording
• Headphone jack for audio monitoring in movie mode
• Uncompressed video recording via HDMI
• Single-axis electronic level in viewfinder, duel-axis (pitch and roll) in live view
• Dimensions: 141mm x 113mm x 82mm (5.5 × 4.4 × 3.2 in).
• Weight: 760 g (1.6 lbs) (camera body only, no battery)
• Calumet here in the UK say the camera will be released on September 18th the price listed in the US is about $2100 so expect to pay about the same in pounds here
  

Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras, Spring 2012

By Mike Perlman on May 9, 2012 in Photography

The Point-and-Shoot market has evolved substantially within the past few years. Pocket-sized models can shoot better in low light, are faster with up to 10fps full resolution burst modes, have enhanced optics and focusing capabilities, to name a few general improvements. But it wasn’t until the end of last year that we began to see a major shift in the point-and-shoot market: the bigger sensor. Up until then, even advanced point-and-shoot models were saddled with smaller sensors, but that’s not the case anymore. While manufacturers continue to crack the code that enables them to outfit portable, fixed lens models with sensors from DSLRs, we’re only in the beginning stages of the point-and-shoot revolution.

That’s why it’s harder to buy a point-and-shoot now than it ever was. I guarantee in a few years, most serious point-and-shoots will have DSLR sensors inside of them. But for now, I’ve rounded up my top point-and-shoot models to prevent you from a bogus buy. These are models that have raised the bar time and again. Some models I’m in the midst of testing, but they are proving themselves worthy adversaries. So, if you need to buy a decent point-and-shoot before the summer, have no fear! Heed my Best Point-and-Shoot list and all will be well...Read the reviews here

Relates Links

Squidoo

PRweb

PCWorld

DPReview forum

Canon EOS 650D

Canon have added a new model to its range and all the evidence before full user reviews are available is that it has the new Digic 5 processor plus other new technologies like a dual focusing system and articulated screen with touch screen capabilities.

Introducing the latest model in the Canon EOS system, the 650D featuring a 270 degree vari-angle clear view touch screen – a first on any Canon DSLR. View your images, pinch to zoom and even fire your shutter on the 1,040,000 dot LCD screen.

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The Canon EOS-650D also features

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• 18 MP CMOS sensor
• Full HD movies with continuous AF and editable video snapshot modes
• Digic 5 processing
• 63 zone light metering for optimum exposure in all light conditions
• 4 ways to focus
• Integrated Canon Speedlite transmitter

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As always my first place for decent info rather than just rumours is the excellent DP Review

Here is a brief summary of what they have to say

“The EOS 650D offers outstanding image quality and performance. Its newly-developed 18MP APS-C Hybrid CMOS sensor provides super-fine resolution, capturing poster-sized images that are rich in colour and detail. Ideal for shooting in low light without flash, the camera features a native 100-12,800 ISO range, allowing the capture of naturallooking shots with minimal noise, while an expanded ISO 25,600 range also offers the ability to shoot in more extreme low-light conditions.

The EOS 650D is the first entry-level EOS to be powered by Canon DIGIC 5 processing, offering greater speed, responsiveness and advanced colour rendition. DIGIC 5’s 14-bit image processing provides beautiful and subtle transitions between colour tones, such as those of an evening sky, and its vastly-increased power also makes the camera ideal for capturing fast-moving action such as football or other sports.

The new dual AF system makes it easy to capture sharply-focused shots of all subjects, whether capturing stills or movies. A superior 9-point all cross-type AF system provides exceptional performance during stills shooting, offering precision accuracy when capturing sports, action and wildlife. Additionally, a new Hybrid AF System offers continuous autofocusing during movie recording, and when shooting in Live View1 mode…….

Touch control and Vari-angle flexibility

Getting the perfect shot has never been easier thanks to the new 7.7cm (3.0″) Vari-angle Clear View LCD II Touch screen. Featuring capacitive technology, the screen is highly responsive and supports a variety of multi-touch gestures, such as pinching and swiping – making it easy to access shooting modes, alter settings and even capture a shot using the screen alone.

Touch control adds a different dimension to Live View shooting. You can select AF points, track faces and objects, and fine-tune image settings via the camera’s Quick Control screen. Navigation is instant and intuitive, while pinch-zooming in playback provides a great way to check the finer details of a shot. The Vari-angle hinge allows the screen to be angled and tilted to suit virtually any situation, while a super-sharp 1,040k-dot resolution ensures every detail is clearly displayed.”.…MORE

The expected price upon release is from £699 so it is not excessive expensive for a state of the art digital slr camera, release dates seem to vary but will be generally available over the summer.

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Here is a bit more info in easy to digest points Canon EOS 650D: 10 things you need to know

Canon Powershot G series new G1 X

The G series of compacts from Canon have been very popular with the more discerning and let’s be honest professional end of the photographic community. One of the few compacts with a viewfinder but also with exceptional image quality and complete technical and therefore creative control. The G9, 10, 11 and 12 were standbys, spare or back up cameras for many professionals. I have a G10 and as a camera it is perfect to have around, it isn’t ever my first choice, that is my 5D but as a backup and quick grab camera the G10 has been great.

Now Canon have re-worked that standard and produced the G1X which has significant improvements based on the reports. Here Author: Olivier Laurent writes in the BJP

“The Powershot G1 X, which adopts the same naming convention as Canon’s new EOS-1D X digital SLR, packs a 18.7x14mm CMOS sensor – representing a significant boost from the G12 7.44×5.58mm CCD sensor, but still short of Canon’s usual DSLR sensors (22.2×14.8mm). The sensor is said to offer the same pixel size and structure as Canon’s EOS 600D DSLR.

“The increased sensor size allows photographers to have greater control over the depth of field, with increased potential to creatively and artistically isolate a subject from its background……..The PowerShot G1 X will be available from late February, priced at £699.

There is an in depth preview article at the excellent DP Review site here

“The Canon PowerShot G1 X may look like the company’s existing G-series compacts, but is a very different prospect. It’s a large sensor camera with a flexible 28-112mm-equivalent, 4x zoom lens and extensive manual controls. The company says it sees it as a camera for photographers who already have a high end DSLR such as a 5D Mark II or 7D, but at a price of $799, we think it’ll appeal much more widely than that. After repeated waves of cameras aimed at point-and-shoot upgraders, it’s heartening to see a camera really living up to the billing of a ‘serious compact.’

Sounds like it is time for me to buy a new camera

Read more: http://www.bjp-online.com/british-journal-of-photography/news/2136123/canon-revamps-powershot-series-g1#ixzz1kNB7aDAe
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Canon unveils revolutionary large sensor PowerShot G1 X compact

Canon has unveiled its most advanced PowerShot compact camera ever – the revolutionary 14.3 Megapixel PowerShot G1 X – that incorporates a large Canon CMOS sensor, a DIGIC 5 processor and an exceptional 4x zoom lens to offer DSLR levels of control and image quality in a compact metal body.

Designed for professional and serious photographers the PowerShot G1 X is the new flagship model in Canon’s legendary G-series line-up that, due to its superb specification and image quality, stands in a category of its own and redefines the performance achievable from a compact camera.

A top quality camera in its own right, or the perfect ‘second camera’ complement to a professional DSLR, the PowerShot G1 X combines EOS sensor technology with DIGIC 5 processing power, a new, precision Canon lens and extensive manual control to create the finest compact camera Canon has ever produced.

Designed to be a highly portable camera the PowerShot G1 X’s precision Canon 28-112mm 4x zoom lens retracts into a robust metal body, providing an unimposing camera that delivers high quality images and can be used discreetly in any shooting situation..……..MORE

Hands On with the New 16.2MP Full-Frame Nikon D4 Professional DSLR

Things just got interesting again. Yes, as has been rumored and leaked for several weeks (months?) now, Nikon just officially unveiled its new flagship professional digital SLR: the Nikon D4, which uses a 16.2-megapixel FX-format (aka full-frame) CMOS sensor that can shoot at up to 11 frames per second and capture full 1080p HD video.

“The D4, which is the successor to the 12.1MP D3s announced back in 2009, will start shipping in late February 2012 for $5999.95. So start counting your pennies now!

The announcement of the new Nikon D4 comes several months after Canon also announced a new flagship professional DSLR, the 18MP Full-Frame EOS-1D X. Though the 12-frames-per-second shooting, 1080p-capable Canon 1D X was announced back in October, it won’t start shipping until March 2012 and will sell for quite a bit more than the Nikon D4: $6,800.

The Nikon D4 will makes its debut at the CES show in Las Vegas next week.” By Dan Havlik..………..MORE

Nikon D4 Specs

• 16.2MP Full-Frame (FX-format) sensor, sized at 36 x 23.9mm

• 91,000-pixel sensor dedicated for 3D Color Matrix metering to assist with autofocus and scene recognition

• EXPEED 3 image processor

• Back-illuminated buttons

• 51-point AF System which is same as in previous model but with new cross-type sensors

• ISO range from 50 to 204,800

• 10 frames per second still shooting for up to 200 JPEGs; 11 fps shooting but focus and exposure are locked at the first frame

• Full 1080p HD video at 30p; 720p shooting at 60p for slow motion

• 0.012 second start time; shutter lag rate at 0.0042 second (same as previous model)

• Two memory card slots: one for CompactFlash cards, the other for new XQD memory cards

• 3.2-inch 921,000-dot LCD screen on back

Nikon 1 mirrorless cameras

“Nikon has announced the release of what it calls a “revolutionary digital camera system,” entering the mirrorless market with the Nikon 1 V1 and Nikon 1 J1 compact cameras.

The Nikon 1 system has been built from scratch, says Nikon, with the goal of offering still image and movie recording capabilities “without compromise,” according to the firm. “This next generation pioneers amazing photography features such as pre and post capture technology that starts before you – enabling groundbreaking new shooting modes that mean you’ll never miss a thing – even the most fleeting of moments, bringing shots to life to help you to capture images you didn’t think possible. And that might be Nikon 1’s most important feature, setting it apart from the other camera manufacturers that have entered the mirrorless camera market more than three years ago now.” Author: Olivier Laurent at The BJP

“You just press the shutter once and, utilising the pre and post capture technology, the camera starts to take the pictures before you’ve even fully depressed the button.” The camera then automatically selects the best five shots, which are saved based on facial expression, composition and focus.”  Do we need cameras that decide which expression is best?

Read more: http://www.bjp-online.com/british-journal-of-photography/news/2110726/nikon-goes-drawing-board-releases-nikon-mirrorless-cameras#ixzz1YgUDDPld

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