British Photographic Industry News April / May 2022

Photographic British

Industry

news

APRIL / MAY 2022 • £5

Putting the photo trade in the picture for over 35 years

www.bpinews.co.uk

Shield your photo business against the elements

Cost of living crisis… what crisis?

Expert advice on how to keep trading, whatever’s next – inside!

P

P

18

11 P

8 P

12

IN THIS ISSUE…

THE SOCIETIES REPORT

LAOWA LANDS IN UK

FUTURE OF RETAIL

PRINT TO PROVE IT

A snapshot of the photo trade in 2022 at The Societies of Photographers’ Convention & Trade Show, bouncing back for the first time in two years

The fast-rising Chinese lens specialist tempts UK retailers with its extensive offerings, including 2x macro, ultra wide, ultra large aperture & shift lenses

Explore the new home for The Flash Centre Birmingham, part of LUMESCA Group, plus its new 12,000 sq ft warehouse located next door

Fujifilm continues its campaign to get photographers printing with a fresh push that dangles the lure of three free prints in order to showcase achievable quality

OR FO CALL N DE R F OW R D IRS ISC T OU NT

THE ORIGINAL CAMERA SLING BACK IN THE UK!

DIGITAL DDLTD DISTRIBUTION (GB) LTD

01442 230022

VISIT TINYURL.COM/BLACKRAPID OR - SCAN HERE

Editorial | April / May 2022

Logo based around Anders font.

3 possible logo uses.

TRUTH STILL THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON

Photographic British

Industry

news

Published monthly by

I

EDITOR Gavin Stoker Tel: 020 8274 0578 Tel: 07990 974 367 ART EDITOR Michael O’Connell, Crocus Creative EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES Please direct all editorial requests, news and press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk

Gavin Stoker, Editor gavin@bpinews.co.uk @GavinStoker

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Please direct all advertising enquiries and sponsorship opportunities to gavin@bpinews.co.uk Publisher’s Office: 31 New Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 7HZ. Legacy Media Ltd accept no ultimate responsibility for accurate reproduction of digital artwork created by third parties. Insurance and carriage of products submitted for inclusion in reports rests with the owner. News, data, prices, interviews and opinion are printed in good faith E&OE. Content including advertising artwork created by Legacy Media Ltd or its agents is ©2022 Legacy Media Ltd. ISSN: BPI News (Print) ..................................ISSN 2634-1344 BPI News (Online) ..............................ISSN 2634-1352

BPI News is a member of

once went to see my GP and during the appointment he asked me what I did for a living. Replying that I was, at the time, a journalist at the BBC who wrote TV and radio listings for the Radio Times, he countered, with a dismissive sniff: “that’s not real journalism”.

Apparently ‘real’ journalists were those embedded with troops in war zones – Kate Adie being the most famous example – what I was engaged with was mere fluff.

Aside from the fact that in my mid 20s I was very happy writing about fluff, as real life was serious enough, the irony wasn’t lost on me that this was someone who was supposed to be making me feel better.

With Putin’s war on Ukraine having entered its second month at the time of writing, and its effect being felt by the rest of us, not least at the fuel pumps, there’s not a great deal of feel-good news around. But what has been both amazing and horrifying in equal measure is the amount of footage making it out of the war zone, shot not just by TV

REQUEST THE BPI NEWS 2022 PRODUCTION PACK for crucial dates via info@bpinews.co.uk Anders around . based uses Logo ible logo 3 poss

font.

raphic Photog

British IONS ws FI C AT P EC I RK S ry ne Indust O N PA CK - A R T WO

& P RO ED I A

DUC

TI

process ) uction (SCA the prod y Area gin lost in a Safe Cop m mar ion is in a 10m than the informat kept with tes to er no vital content is h equa azine is bigg e sure all ht) whic mag To mak end that request m (heig : BPI News mm ons on x 313m ht). we reco m (width) s. Please note and butt m (heig ers Ad th) x 333m of 220m page edge web bann Half Page for m (wid ht the s size.

240m from to be Full Heig A4. Spec size of lied at this will need it page when standard Ad Page m (w) finished should be suppedges then ly be cut off 120m h Half has a the s m (h) safe Widt ork off Full x 333m to go BPI New ad artw that can page advert d’, an area All full wish your ‘blee Ad 3mm (w) If you Full Page 123mm (h) with a printers. m suppliednished at the x 339m Bleed ) fi (3mm being

EW BPI N

Adve

g rtisin

and Pa

S M

ge siz

es

JUST £30 PA TO RECEIVE THE ONLY PHOTO INDUSTRY MAG! Doub

le Page

Spread

m (h)

x 333m m (w) Trim Page

(w) 110mm (h) m x 313m Safe Copy Area

240m

480m

x 333m m (w) Trim Page

m (h) x 165m m (w) m (h) x 168m m (w) Bleed ) (3mm m (h) x 155m m (w) Area 220m Safe Copy

m (h) x 339m m (w) ) Bleed (3mm

m (h)

240m

246m

m x 313m m (w) Area 220m Safe Copy

m (h) x 339m m (w) ) Bleed (3mm

246m

(h)

Help BPI News to update you with what your peers in the photo trade are up to & have a year’s worth of the mag delivered to your door for just £30 per annum including postage (UK mainland only). See opposite for how to pay via PayPal. Alternatively, please contact gavin@bpinews.co.uk for direct payment details.

486m

m (h) x 313m m (w) Area 460m fold) page Safe Copy for the allow mber,

Quarter

(Reme

Half Page

Half Page

Horizont

Page

Vertical

Portrait

m (w) x m (h)

108m

al

148m

m(w) 108m x m(h) 300m

ontal Horiz m (w)

220m

Strip

x 72mm

Vertical

Strip (w) m (h)

52mm x 300m

(h)

material prepared t. and pre- documen d ments in this downloa advertise sizes given files, a ce. larger supplying to the or, for ar servi by only ats and or simil t to us, ransfer your work ct file form iled direc corre be ema Dropbox, WeT in the either of Files can to the likes ided link prov on IVERY onsib a mini D DEL INSERTS: brief and ided at ). held resp G AN to your properly KIN t be prov can not be requirements files, but not les, FOR uced ers, N mus PAC prod print For sign Media these EPS fi MATIO or Artwork we have direct to our identified.

(Legacy lied beneath JPEG and InDeof PDF and embedded INFOR ething lied , easily s CMYK, 0578. t is som ork supp , EPS, TIFF ts. In the case with all font be supp they can be the inser ts should 020 8274 of artw lied men pt PDF that er on with any Unless is supp colours. lf, inser labeled so We acce Quark docu in Stok packaged artwork t or spot act Gav your beha clearly to us and as se cont Microsof sure thatand without se provide itting, file. packed details plea make nes plea IDML before subm please to outli supplied lied as an delivery work e. convertedsign files are t supp heck your of stag rity men ker.

If InDe and docu flightc at a laterect the integ in Sto used that you ct your files .co.uk prot or Gav fonts mmend corre pinews lines and er & edit We reco be able to t our dead info@b t own . not mee .uk or contac 0 7HZ we may help us to please news.co d, Surrey TW1 Please News, 2015. in@bpi Richmon to BPI ail: gav August Road, since s relating 974 367 Em ia Ltd, 31 New dia Ltd 90 matter cy Med acy Me or 079 For all s, Lega

by Leg 0578, BPI New 8274 lished RESS: e. Pub Call: 020 POSTAL ADD trad raphic m (w) 220m x m (h) 148m

Tech

ni

ation: of 300dpi and quality form resolutionfor the print mum le cal In

ACT US

CONT

to the piece r mouth s: you BPI New

tog UK pho

:

NOW

Main cover pic: Chris Eyre-Walker for OM Digital Solutions

crews, as would have been the case when Kate Adie was reporting in the 90s, but by ordinary Ukrainian citizens on smartphones. These shaky images of bombs shattering tower blocks or wiping out fleeing families seek to share the truth of the situation… just as the Russian government’s propaganda machine tries to deny or twist what we’re witnessing.

There have been reports of Russian soldiers at checkpoints ordering Ukrainians fleeing missile-ravaged Mariupol to delete images and videos – evidence of potential war crimes – from their phones; but while truth is a powerful weapon in war, so too is occasionally truth-twisting digital technology. Software apps are now sophisticated enough to animate a still photo and literally put words in someone’s mouth, while deep fake videos are rife. It may be amusing to parody Tom Cruise in a skit on TikTok, but when the fake is of the Ukrainian President asking his army to lay down weapons, technology takes on a much darker hue.

Photography and video is still the way we make sense of the world when we can’t be there to experience something in person. It also reflects and shares the mood and emotion of a situation – those shots that convey emotion being the most powerful of all, and the type that win awards. Such was the case at the recent The Societies Convention and Trade Show, which we report on this issue. This first industry event of the year was indeed a reason to be cheerful and peers we spoke to at the show seemed engaged and upbeat about being able to mix with others again. The human condition is all about communication and connection, and ultimately sharing our own truth is what sets us free.

2

New Bugg, Claxton &

Kimber Frame Range.

NOW AVAILABLE

Available in Black, White, Gold, Silver, Dark Grey, Light Grey, Oak, Rustic & Dark Wood Check out Swains website for more details.

Also the latest new frame and mount price list is available to view from our home page.

www.swains.co.uk

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

sales@swains.co.uk

01485 536200

BPI News | April / May 2022 3

News

OM SYSTEM WORKING OVERTIME: NEW FLAGSHIP, LENSES & ACCESSORIES With Olympus branding supposedly banished from all things photographic in favour of the new ‘OM System’ name, an OM System OM-1 camera still bearing the classic logo is a surprise. Nevertheless the new flagship Four Thirds system mirrorless camera promises to deliver your customers a ‘one of a kind’ experience, with its manufacturer stating that it delivers ‘high image quality that goes beyond the expectation of its sensor size.’

At £1,999.99 SRP, the body is claimed to be dust and splash proof as well as freezeproof down to -10°C. Other key features include a new TruePic X image processor said to be 3x as fast as its predecessor,

enabling sequential high speed shooting of up to 50fps with continuous AF, or 120fps in single AF mode. As far as AF is concerned, the camera offers on-chip phase detection in both vertical and horizontal directions and 1,053 all cross type AF points. Its AI Detection AF technology is said to use deep learning technology to recognise a range of subject matters, including motor vehicles, planes and birds, as well as cats and dogs.

Image stabilisation is claimed to be the equivalent of 8EV steps, while viewfinder resolution is an impressive 5.76 million dots. Video capability includes a choice of a 4K resolution at 60fps or Full HD shooting up to 240fps.

A pair of new lenses has also popped up alongside the new camera body in the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II and the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40150mm f4.0 PRO, at £899.99 and £799.99 SRP respectively.

The 12-40mm lens is a successor to Olympus’ original 2013 released optic, with this second iteration claimed to offer improved image quality and weather resistant performance. The 40-

150mm, meanwhile, offers a broad focal range equivalent to 80-300mm and is claimed to be the world’s most compact and lightweight model featuring a fixed maximum aperture value of f/4.0.

Along with the new camera body and lenses there’s also a new quartet of compatible accessories available now for dealers to piggyback on a sale. These are: a vertical battery grip in the HLD-10 at £319.99 SRP, the RM-WR1 wireless remote control at £69.99 SRP, a BLX-1 lithium ion rechargeable battery at £79.99 SRP plus the BLX-1 battery charger at £119.99 SRP. www.om-digitalsolutions.com

SPROCKET ‘N’ ROLL: LOMOGRAPHY FILM SCANNER KITS More known for its cheap plastic analogue cameras it may be, but now Lomography is expanding its range via a system that includes two new film scanning kits: the creatively-named DigitaLISA+ and DigitaLIZA Max. Claiming to make home film scanning simple and fun, the £65 SRP DigitaLIZA+ is designed for use with a digital camera for ‘ultimate control’ over the final look of the image, while

Photographic British

Industry

the DigitaLISA Max at £84.90 SRP is configured for scanning with both digital camera and smartphone, with a detachable Smartphone Stand provided. Availability for both is promised from this May, with UK distro for Lomography products offered by sjfphoto.co.uk.

A video, plus tips and tutorials can be found via the URL below. www.lomography.com/digitaliza

Supported by

news

4 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

News

PANASONIC OFFERS TRADE ‘6’ OF THE BEST Direct your customers seeking a sleeker alternative to a DSLR to the fact that another flagship mirrorless camera has entered the retail fray with the launch of the 25.2 megapixel CMOS sensor incorporating Panasonic Lumix GH6. At a body-only £1,999.99 SRP, or £2,199.99 for a kit option including a 12-60mm lens, it continues the hybrid photo/ video ethos that began in 2009 with the launch of the DMC-GH1. Boasting higher resolution and higher bit rates than ever before, the new camera can shoot 5.7K-resolution footage at 30fps or 4K video at frame rates including 60fps and a slow motion 120fps, plus, alternatively, Full HD resolution clips at 240fps or 300fps (12.5x slow motion).

Incorporating the manufacturer’s standard Micro Four Thirds mount, attendant features include a 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen, 3,680K-dot live viewfinder, and for the first time in the Lumix series, compatibility is offered with the CFexpress Type B card. A slot for an SD card is additionally provided.

Panasonic adds that unlimited recording time is offered in all modes thanks to it optimising the heat-dissipating path with a forced-cooling fan mechanism, while a five-axis gyro sensor offers the equivalent of 7.5 stops of body integral image stabilisation. Such features also enable use of the camera’s 100 megapixel resolution

image mode without a tripod; whereby 8 consecutive images are shot automatically while shifting the sensor using the body IS. Photographer customers are also able to enjoy burst shooting using the camera’s electronic shutter at 75 fps at full 25.2 megapixel resolution. www.panasonic.co.uk

SONY AIMS WIDE WITH ‘HYBRID’ LENS

Trade solidarity with Ukraine

Direct your E-mount camera owning customers to the fact they have a new creative option in the Sony FE PZ 1635mm f/4 G series lens, described by its manufacturer as the world’s lightest full frame wide angle power zoom with a constant f/4 aperture. The pitch here is that its compact size makes it a great choice for compact camera bodies, while its overall barrel length remains constant while focusing and zooming.

This, says Sony, makes it as adept a choice for ‘vlogging’ and video production as it is for landscape photography.

“There is a growing need for ‘hybrid’ products that deliver for both stills and video as the demand for quality content creation continues to grow, especially online,” believes Sony Europe’s Director of Product Marketing for Digital Imaging, Yann Salmon Legagneur.

Weighing 353g, for the first time in an Alpha lens, the 16-35mm uses six of Sony’s ‘XD’ (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors for both focus and zoom drive. This enables

With the conflict in Ukraine into its second month as this issue goes to press, major western brands continue to shut stores in Russia and pause or discontinue trade with the country in protest at Putin’s aggression. There has also been fundraising here and abroad in aid of the humanitarian efforts to help the Ukrainian people. BPI News understands several photo manufacturers are fundraising internally with their staff, without wishing to publicise the fact, as, to quote one we contacted, ‘now is not the time for brand promotion.’

Currently, photo and video related brands that have either suspended sales or product deliveries (or both) to Russia as the conflict in Ukraine continues include Sony, Samsung, Nikon, Canon, Peak Design, Leica, Zeiss, Fujifilm, Panasonic. As ever, this continues to be a fluid situation with many moving parts.

The official response from Nikon sums up the approach of many in our industry: ‘We are saddened by the tragic events in Ukraine. Our thoughts very much remain with all those affected and we are hoping for a peaceful resolution.

We are continuously evaluating the changing situation.

We stand together in our desire for peace in the region.’

accurate focus to be maintained while shooting stills continuously at up to 30fps, promises the brand.

Availability is expected from this May, at a suggested retail price of £1,300. www.sony.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to reach peers in the photo trade, so use it. Send ad bookings & press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | April / May 2022 5

News

NIKON GOES FOURTH The photo stalwart is once again sponsoring the 2022 Marilyn Stafford ‘Fotoreportage’ Award, which will be the fourth year it’s been involved.

The international competition, first launched in 2017 and facilitated by FotoDocument, aims to provide female photographers with a prestigious platform to celebrate their work, while highlighting various important social and cultural issues. A prize of £2,000 enables a professional female photographer to complete a documentary photo essay addressing important issues, while Nikon’s sponsorship recognises its continued commitment to foster female talent in our photo industry.

The competition is free to enter and is open to applications from female photographers at any stage in their career. Entries close on May 20th, 2022, with the winner announced on June 28th this year. Direct your customers to enter here: https://fotodocument.org/fotoaward/

Wex’s parent company acquires major stake in Polish retailer Wex Photo Video’s parent company, European Imaging Group, has been in touch to reveal it’s acquired a majority stake in Cyfrowe.pl, which it describes as Poland’s market leading omni-channel retailer of camera and video equipment. The acquisition marks the further expansion of the EIG’s pan European growth strategy, with Cyfrowe running five retail stores across Poland – a market new to the group – plus an e-commerce platform claimed to be ‘well established’.

The European Imaging Group operates regionally, with Calumet Photographic in Germany, Wex in the UK and CameraNU.nl in Benelux. EIG, the umbrella brand under which sit Aurelius Equity Opportunities’ photo and video businesses, has grown organically and through acquisitions, claiming annual sales of over 300 million Euros in the UK, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. www.european-imaging-group.com

Ricoh goes streetwise with ‘Urban’ edition

Award founder Marilyn Stafford adds: “I look back at my life’s work and what stands out for me most is the humanitarian work; my heart lay with the victims of tragedy and neglect.

Although I very much enjoyed shooting celebrity portraits and fashion, I did it largely to support my family and to self-fund my reportage work. I fully understand how women need additional support to make the reportage sustain itself, which is why I founded this award with FotoDocument and we are honoured to be supported by Nikon.” www.nikon.co.uk

Clockwise from top: Marilyn Stafford in Lebanon, 1960; Ready-to-Wear, Paris, 1950; Orthodox Priest, Balamand Monastery, Lebanon, 1960; Edith Piaf, Paris, 1950

Promised to ship at the end of April is a special limited edition camera kit in the Ricoh GR IIIx Urban Edition.

The enthusiasttargeted camera body has been treated to a metallic gray finish and a swish navy blue ring encircling its lens, which its maker claims is a ‘representation of deep blue skies reflected on a pool after the rain’. The metallic gray finish is said to be inspired by the ‘gritty city’ setting that street photographers might be using it in. Accessories included in the bundle are a genuine leather hand strap and black metallic hot shoe cover engraved with ‘since 1996’ – a reference to when the acclaimed GR series was first launched.

A regular body-only version without accessories is due to follow this summer. Limited to 2,000 units worldwide, the bundle has a price of €1099, while a dedicated site for the camera has been launched at the URL below. https://ricohgr.eu

Published for over 35 years, BPI News is your industry’s only dedicated title aimed at retailers, distributors, minilabs and manufacturers 6 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Product Focus

WAITING FOR GODOX

Leading distributor Transcontinenta UK is supplying and promoting Godox lighting products in the UK, whose range has grown significantly in recent months to over 600 items. We get the lowdown on why retailers should be stocking and selling the brand, and their customers buying it

I

f you attended March’s Societies Trade Show you’ll have seen an impressively diverse yet thematically linked product portfolio showcased by Transcontinenta UK, one highlight being the latest offerings to sit under the literal umbrella of its distributed lighting brand Godox.

The manufacturer’s stock has risen considerably in recent months, with some initial 200 Godox SKU’s having multiplied to well over 600 at the time of writing, according to Product Specialist Alex Cooke (pictured). As a result there is a new promotional push supported by Transcontinenta UK to their photo and video trade partners, inviting them to take advantage of their improved availability of Godox stock. Dealers are directed to the updated product listings and pricing in Transcontinenta UK’s online trade shop (transcontinenta.co.uk/tradeshop), allowing for 24/7 ordering.

600 reasons to order Godox: the lighting brand, available via Transcontinenta UK, has stepped up the breadth of its product portfolio considerably, with dealers directed to its distributor’s website to view more of the range and request stock 24/7

SEE THE LIGHT WITH GODOX With over 600 products to choose from it’s worth illuminating a few ‘hero’ examples from Transcontinenta UK and Godox, covering studio flash, on-camera flash, RGB lighting and continuous lighting.

First up there’s the Godox QT400III (above), the introductory model in its ‘Quicker’ studio flash line-up, so named because it can help photographers capture an instant so swift it may escape

their own eyes; splashing water and floating powder for example. With a claimed 0.01-0.9 second recycling time, the QT III series can keep up with 20 captures per second and synchronise with shutter speeds of up to 1/8000s, enabling the use of larger apertures. This third generation product can also act as a modelling light, with its upgraded 40W LED adjustable from 0-100% and boasting a longer more environmentally friendly lifespan.

Thanks to a built-in 2.4G wireless system and a 50m operational range, the QT400III can cooperate with other members of the Godox flash family and is compatible with various Bowens’ mount modifiers and Godox’s complete light shaper system.

The Godox MF12 macro flash (left) meanwhile can be utilised individually by photographers looking to shoot close ups of smaller subjects – or as part of a multi flash solution with several units attached to a mounting ring. An adjustable head provides quick positioning, while the compact size aids

its ‘invisibility’, lighting up the subject while avoiding intruding into frame. When used as an off-camera TTL flash, the MF12 works with Godox triggers plus cameras from the likes of Nikon, Sony, Canon, Fuji, OM Solutions and Panasonic, with additional accessories and colour filters available.

Thirdly we have portable and creative Godox TL30/60/120 tube lights (right). The TL120 is 117cm in length, weighs 1.27Kg and can be remotely controlled via a Godox Light App, RC-R9 remote or DMX controller. Providing 30W output, it also has a built-in screen for accessing functions, with battery life good for more than 150 minutes at full power.

Again there are optional accessories available, including light brackets for stacking up to 8 tubes. As it suggests, the TL30 is 30cm in length and weighs just 0.3Kg. An embedded magnet allows for attachment to any metal surface, while a screw hole at both ends enables stand mounting. Output is 8W, battery life is an hour, and again it can be controlled via a smartphone app. Alternatively the middle option in this trio is the TL60, which extends duration of use to two hours, boosts output to 18W and weighs 0.73Kg. Lastly there’s the Godox SZ150R / SZ200BI (left). The former is a 150-watt RGB bi-colour zoomable LED light designed for filmmakers and photographers. Featuring a Bowens mount, a reflector and variety of accessories, its zoom knob allows beam angle adjustment from 20° to 65° for a wide soft spread of light or a stronger focusing light.

We also get 12 cinematic light effects, including firework and ambulance, while a USB port allows for firmware updates. The SZ200BI is also adjustable to the same degree, but ups the output to 200W, with eight built-in effects.

View the full Godox portfolio via www.transcontinenta.co.uk, call 0203 966 5947 or email info@transcontinenta.co.uk

New Godox products to examine include studio flash, on-camera flash, RGB and continuous lighting. See more at www.godox.com NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | April / May 2022 7

BPI News Extra

THE SOCIETIES WELCOME BACK TRADE

March’s The Societies of Photographers Convention and Trade Show – the first under new CEO Colin Jones – looked to be a welcome return to normality and positivity for the photo industry. BPI News reports

T

he once annual Societies of Photographers Convention and London Trade Show, more familiar at one time to the trade for its component element the SWPP, last held its event in January 2020 before successive Covid-induced lockdowns struck. The pandemic unfortunately put paid to the proposed 2021 Convention entirely, meaning that the 2022 show, fortunately held in March just gone, was a longer time coming than expected.

With Juliet and Phil Jones having stepped back from day-to-day operations last year, this one was also the first under newly installed CEO Colin Jones. With the latest generation of the Jones family at the helm and the trade emerging blinking into the spring sunshine for the first major trade event of the year, there was excited anticipation for many, if a suck-it-and-see approach for some after such a tumultuous time.

With the Trade Show taking over one whole floor of regular venue the Novotel in London’s Hammersmith for 2022, BPI News visited on the Thursday and found exhibitors and representatives of the photo industry upbeat and appreciative of being able to interact with photographer customers and enquiring visitors face-to-face again.

This was a sentiment echoed by the organisers during and following the four-day stint; with the regular awards held on the Friday night providing a chance to network and mingle.

“It was absolutely fantastic to be back at the Novotel again, doing what we love doing, helping photographers improve their craft, their business and sharing the passion of photography,” enthuses The Societies CEO Colin Jones.

“It was amazing to see the show bustling again, with many of the trade reporting an increase in sales compared to the 2020 London Photo Convention.

“On top of this we hosted the usual Masterclasses, Superclasses, Business School, 20x16-inch Print Competition,

Qualifications Judging and Presentation Evening, all of which we’ve had such wonderful feedback from.

“I’d like to personally thank every single person that’s helped us to put the event on. Without everyone’s support, it just wouldn’t be possible. I look forward to welcoming you all to the 2023 London Photo Convention.”

The Trade Awards saw some familiar names garlanded. Best Professional Lighting went to Elinchrom (Bottom row, far right), while Best Professional Lab was Loxley Colour (top right of spread). Best Professional Paper went to Permajet Museum Heritage 310 (right), while the Canon EOS R5 was named Best Professional Camera (Bottom row, 2nd from left). The same brand also took Best Professional Lens for its RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM and Best Professional Photo Printer for the Canon ImagePROGRAF PRO1000.

Best Professional Accessory went to Photees, while Light Blue Software bagged Best Professional Software.

Colin concludes: “I’d like to congratulate all the companies who have won an Award, voted for by our members and their customers. This is the 14th year of our trade awards, and they have become extremely popular both with the trade and with photographers who want to recognise these suppliers for the excellent services and products they bring to the industry.”

Next year’s dates for your diary are Wednesday 15th – Saturday 18th March. See you there!

Show and (Novo)tel: the photo industry returned to Hammersmith in force to showcase latest products, many of which picked up awards from The Societies’ voters

www.thesocieties.net

Thinking of booking space to exhibit with The Societies for next year’s London Trade Show? The dates for your diary are 8 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

The Societies Convention & London Trade Show

Wednesday 15th to Saturday 18th March, 2023. Get in touch direct via info@thesocieties.net or call 01745 356 935 @bpi_news

BPI News | April / May 2022 9

News

LEICA SENDS REPORTER TO FIND FRESH WITNESSES The premium camera brand has launched a new round of its ‘The World Deserves Witnesses’ campaign that it ran twice last year – the most recent being June 2021 – with three new promotional images added to the series. These photographs again preserve the initial approach of creating a campaign from existing images, rather than shooting specifically for the concept – the idea being to document and highlight the ‘singular vision’ of Leica camera users.

Leica claims the trio of new visuals – from photographers Elliott Erwitt, Jasper Doest and Donato Di Camillo – will appear in print media, on outdoor posters

and online in more than 15 countries around the globe. They also provide an opportunity to highlight the Leica M series in its three different versions: the M10 Monochrom, M10-R and the recent M11.

In the manufacturer’s other news, it has issued details of a robustly constructed Leica Q2 Monochrom Reporter camera.

As it sounds, the camera is available with a monochrome sensor whilst still featuring protective Kevlar armour instead of the Q2’s traditional leather trim. The latest iteration also sports a matt green finish – which is said to have abrasion resistant properties – for an SRP of £5,250. The camera offers a generous resolution of 47 megapixels, with the absence of a colour filter array leading to an ‘unparalleled’ level of detail and increased sensitivity, according to the manufacturer. www.leica-camera.com

PHOTOGRAPHY HEADS NORTH The third Photo North Festival is due to take place at Manchester’s Bonded Warehouse this May 7th through 9th, promising visitors book stalls, photo walks, workshops, screenings, a licensed bar and networking opportunities.

There will also be an exhibition featuring images from the late Tom Stoddart’s final book ‘Extraordinary Women’.

Other photographers having their work showcased include David Collyer and Chris Floyd, with the festival itself curated

by Peter Dench and Sharon Price.

Peter adds: “We recognise people are passionate about photography. Photo North Festival aims to introduce or advance understanding of the medium through our programme of exhibitions - to inspire and engage debate. We have one perfect venue, with headline events and renowned photographers confirmed and the list growing. The

TAKE A DNA SAMPLE FROM TENBA Direct your DSLR owning customers to the fact that a new Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack is now available to the trade from distributor MAC Group Europe, at an SRP of £200 and in a choice of either blue or black. We’re told it’s been devised to allow for seamless transitions between photojournalism and sports photography, urban exploration and travel, and ‘every conceivable’ kind of social event. As expected going by the name, the ‘pack comprises a lot of the same features found in Tenba’s DNA Messenger shoulder bags. With roll-top type access, the backpack offers weather resistant (but not waterproof) fabric, a removable padded camera insert, a removable and reversible rain cover, a side mounted tripod pocket, plus a trolley strap. Its manufacturer claims there is space for a mirrorless camera or DSLR with 4-6 lenses up to 70-200mm f/2.8, plus flash and accessories including a laptop up to 16-inches in size. www.uk.tenba.com www.macgroupeu.com

creativity in planning the festival format, workshops and seminars is something unique to offer people in the north of England and beyond.” www.photonorthfestival.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to reach peers in the photo trade, so use it. Send ad bookings & press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk 10 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Product Focus

LAOWA LENSES LAND IN UK With sales having risen by a healthy margin during the pandemic, leading Chinese manufacturer Venus Optics is expanding its Laowa lens business in the UK. BPI News discovers why its 2x macro, ultra wide, ultra large aperture plus shift lenses should tempt retailers and photographers alike

D

istributing direct to retailers, photo and cinema camera lens manufacturer Venus Optics says its sales have risen by a remarkable 30% during the pandemic. As a result, it’s now looking to expand coverage of its Laowa lens brand in the UK. It adds that sales of its 2x macro lenses have ‘gone through the roof ’ as photographers have sought to start capturing the world from a different perspective, at home.

Offering lenses compatible with virtually all cameras currently on the market, Venus Optics’ offering is comprised of four major product lines.

The flagship Laowa 2x macro lenses come with a reputation for delivering super sharp images and a unique 2:1 macro magnification, and for a reasonable price. The best selling Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Macro lens was awarded ‘Best Macro Lens’ by TIPA in 2020, while not only does the new 85mm f/5.6 2x (right) offer 2:1, but it’s so tiny it can sit in your palm, making it one of the most compact offerings on the market.

Third party reviews show that the sharpness and distortion control of the lens is on a par with, if not better than, competitors despite being wider, smaller and more affordable. This goes some way to explaining why it gained both TIPA and EISA awards in 2021.

a surge in demand for these compact, high quality ultra wide-angle lenses.

As well as macro and ultra wide angle lenses, Laowa offers ultra large aperture lenses too: a case in point being its new 35mm f/0.95 (below), described as the world’s first 35mm full frame lens with a bright f/0.95 aperture, allowing photographers to isolate their subject with a narrow depth of field but still

THE WIDER PICTURE WITH LAOWA Ultra wide-angle lenses are another leading Laowa product. Landscape photographers are directed to its ‘Zero-D’ line up including the 7.5mm f/2 for Micro Four Thirds mount, 15mm f/2 for full frame mirrorless and 9mm f/2.8 (below) for APS-C sensor cameras. All three have been welcomed by photographers involved in landscape and astrophotography, who want to avoid having to carry heavy glass from another brand. With restrictions lifting and people becoming more mobile, the manufacturer anticipates

retain a wide perspective. While the company acknowledges it is a challenge to build a lens with this kind of spec that is quality, affordable and portable, it believes it has cracked it, delivering a very good optical performance in a product that isn’t too heavy to carry around.

Professional shift lenses might also be tricky to do well, but the upside for those who are able to is a relatively long product lifespan. Claimed to be half the price of other manufacturers’ offerings is the new Laowa 15mm f/4.5 Zero-D (top right) which not only delivers an outstanding optical performance but also claims the title of the world’s widest shift lens.

Finally it’s worth noting all Venus Optics lenses are designed by founder Dayong Li (pictured). Residing in Japan for the past 15 years, Mr Li worked for a range of Japanese manufacturers and was heavily involved in designing DSLR zoom lenses, plus industrial, security and medical lenses. Currently holding over 40 patents worldwide, his forte is designing outstanding compact lenses.

Retailers looking to add Laowa products to stock should get in touch with Venus Optics direct. It’s passing along savings it’s made by not having a distributor by giving retailers an improved margin and investing in local advertising. Local dealers can take advantage of the offer of 30 days credit, free shipping and swift fulfillment; typically 3 to 7 days. www.venuslens.net

Your Venus Optics sales contacts: Kevin Yeung: kevin@venuslens.net and Fion Wan: fion@venuslens.net NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | April / May 2022 11

BPI News Extra

FLASH OF INSPIRATION Significant growth has prompted LUMESCA Group to relocate its comprehensive product warehouse and Birmingham branch of The Flash Centre, acquired in 2020, into adjacent units just outside of town. BPI News heads up the M40 to discover the choice and convenience offered to the trade

L

UMESCA Group has been actively expanding its portfolio in recent years, most notably with the late 2020 acquisition of the formerly familyrun The Flash Centre and in-house lighting brand Elinchrom. The latest news is that it has consolidated these assets and many more into adjacent warehouse units in Rowley Regis, just off the M5 outside of Birmingham.

The result is one central fulfillment hub that also acts as a shop front for the Birmingham branch of The Flash Centre, where it has relocated after 17 years at its previous location. BPI News ventured up the motorway for a walkthough the new premises, which aim to cement the commitment TFC has to both photo industry and local photographic community, while providing the logistics for LUMESCA Group to support its growth in the UK and beyond.

The new site covers 12,000 sq ft and complements their European warehouse based in Karlsruhe, Germany. It also means that The Flash Centre has an, um, ‘flash’ new base of operations where members of the trade and the public alike can meet the team comprising Kevin Treadwell, Brian Collier and TFC General Manager Mark Cheetham face-to-face, and get their expert opinion on a host of new products from the likes of Canon, Fujifilm, Benro, Tenba and, of course, Elinchrom. What’s more, in The Flash Centre store, there is a built-in wall divider enabling the

Ready in a flash: The Flash Centre Birmingham team from L-R: Julian Amoah, General Manager Mark Cheetham, Kevin Treadwell, Simon Burfoot and Brian Collier, front

The new location allows us to provide modern aesthetics on top of our long standing experience and dedicated customer service. It’s been fantastic to be able to welcome customers and partners to the new space for an exclusive look around.”

TFC General Manager Mark Cheetham space to be split in two, so a studio area can be provided for demonstrations, workshops and portrait shoots.

BPI News attended one of the two launch days held at the beginning of March, witnessing an array of industry partners showcasing their wares to customers, including Canon, Sigma, distributor Holdan Ltd with its Samyang lenses, Tenba and Think Tank bags, Pentax, Nanlite (now distributed via MAC Group Europe), Delkin, plus Calibrite calibration tools (formerly branded as X-Rite).

TAILOR MADE FOR THE TRADE “A lot of time, money and dedication has gone into making the new store just right for our customers and we

couldn’t be happier with the outcome,” enthuses TFC General Manager Mark Cheetham, who invites members of the trade who haven’t yet stuck their head around the door to make sure they plan a visit soon. “The new location allows us to provide more modern aesthetics on top of our long standing experience and dedicated customer service. It’s been fantastic to be able to welcome customers and partners for an exclusive look around the new space.”

As indicated, The Flash Centre Birmingham is more than just another camera and photo accessory shop, with its far end housing a studio space that can be easily partitioned off from the rest of the store. Photographers can utilise this space for commercial and personal shoots with the obvious advantage of the store’s rental

Find the new Birmingham branch of The Flash Centre plus the LUMESCA Group’s comprehensive 12 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

LUMESCA & The Flash Centre Advertorial

We’ve enjoyed significant growth over the past few years, which meant it became necessary for us to find somewhere bigger to meet demand and ensure we continue to cater for all our customers’ needs, while providing scope for future growth.”

LUMESCA Group MD Geoffrey Clements

equipment being on hand, plus the option to tether gear onto wall-mounted monitors, thereby providing an accessible and professional solution.

The new warehouse and The Flash Centre premises are all part of LUMESCA Group continuing to buck the trend in uncertain times and expand its

operations, following its 2020 acquisition of The Flash Centre plus the addition of B2B photographic supplier Keyphoto Limited in summer 2021. The aim is to increase both its product offerings and services to the photo trade, helping to firmly establish LUMESCA Group as industry leaders in key segments.

Well stocked and centrally located, the 12,000 sq ft warehouse for LUMESCA Group products and distributed lines sits adjacent to and round the back of the unit space housing The Flash Centre Birmingham.

LUMESCA Group Product Manager Peter Lovelock (on right) shown with Logistics Manager Steve Peachey

The warehouse space behind the shop, which takes up the entirety of the next unit, was acquired with the support of Lloyds Bank and has allowed the group to create five additional jobs.

Geoffrey Clements, LUMESCA Group MD, adds: “We’ve enjoyed significant growth over the past few years, which meant it became necessary for us to find somewhere bigger to meet demand. Our new site ensures we can continue to cater for all our customers’ needs while providing scope for further future growth.”

Geoffrey concludes that his company remains committed and determined to achieve significant growth in the years that follow and is looking at new brands to add to LUMESCA’s portfolio as well as other potential acquisitions within the creative sector. www.theflashcentre.com www.LUMESCA.com

new warehouse facilities at Units 2 & 3, WD Boxhub, Cakemore Road, Rowley Regis B65 0RY @bpi_news

BPI News | April / May 2022 13

News

SAVE THE DATE: ‘TPS’ PROMISES SEPT RETURN Scribble this date in your trade diary: The UK and Europe’s largest annual photo event – The Photography Show & Video Show– is returning to the NEC this September 17th through 20th.

Aimed at everyone practicing the art of photography, from beginner to pro, promised so far are ‘over 250 of the biggest international brands’, alongside the usual demos, talks, workshops and networking opportunities. With the show having shifted to September last year for

the first time in order to get ahead of successive lockdowns, it now finds itself in the spot in the calendar that used to be occupied by the now defunct Photokina.

‘TPS’ will also feature its regular programme of live talks, spearheaded by bigger names appearing on the ‘Super Stage’. Confirmed exhibitors currently include Canon, Epson, Fujifilm, OM Digital Solutions, Nikon, Sony, Sigma, The Flash Centre, Tamron and Pixapro, along with accessory brands including Lee Filters, Benro, Tenba, Saramonic, Godox and RODE Microphones.

Considering exhibiting? Direct your enquiry via email to: richard.macey@futurenet.com or call 020 7042 4284. www.photographyshow.com

A LONG LOOK AT TOKINA France based Cokin KT, member of the Kenko Tokina group, and distributor of Tokina lenses for the UK, is reaching out to the trade direct following the cessation of is distribution deal via Hahnel at the end of last year. Its getting in touch is timely, as there is availability on a host of new Tokina product to share. Worldwide sales have already started on the Tokina SZ Super Tele 500mm f/8 Reflex MF (above), which is described as a super tele lens that offers a compact alternative to standard telephoto lenses as more and more photographers seek easy-to-carry gear. The lens has adopted a T-mount standard that allows the lens to be attached to any camera using mount adapters, and offers specific ‘donut-shaped and super smooth ‘bokeh’ according to its maker.

Next up and designed for use with the above lens and its ilk is the Tokina SZ Super Tele Finder Lens (right),

which can be attached to a camera’s vacant hotshoe and is designed to improve the aim of photographers who practice long distance telephoto shooting of birds, airplanes, celestial bodies, auto racing or the like. This accessory aims to assist in finding the target in a quicker and more accurate manner, with a clear red dot provided even in sunny weather it’s claimed. Power is courtesy of a CR2032 lithium battery.

Got fish-eye lens fans among your customers? Luckily there are two new ones in the Tokina SZ 8mm f/2.8 X Fish-Eye and the Tokina SZ 8mm f/2.8 E Fish-Eye (right). As it sounds the former is for Fuji ‘X’ mount cameras while the latter is for Sony E-mount cameras.

Lightweight at 280g, it offers a fast f/2.8 aperture, minimum

10cm focus distance and clickless aperture ring for smooth operation when shooting video.

Finally for now there’s the Tokina SZX 400mm & 2x Extender Kit (above), which allows the photographer to bring faraway subjects that much closer. The kit includes the Tokina SZX Super Tele 400mm f/8 Reflex MF lens and the 2x Extender TA-020 for T-mount, thus transforming the 400mm lens to the equivalent of 800mm. It’s recommended for long distance shooting when the 400mm focal length is not enough to reach the desired magnification.

For Tokina stock, contact masaaki.kondo@cokin.com www.cokin.com www.tokinalens.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to reach peers in the photo trade, so use it. Send ad bookings & press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk 14 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Extra

HAHNEMÜHLE UK: UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

It’s all swapping places and changing faces at the paper specialist this month, while there’s a new Sugar Cane surface for its Natural Line range of Digital FineArt papers, extending the creative possibilities for the eco-friendly family…

W

ith previous UK GM Simon Waller heading off to take up the position of General Manager Hahnemühle USA, Nancy Janes (pictured) has been appointed Hahnemühle UK & Ireland Managing Director and General Manager. But that’s not all, as Sven Heeren becomes General Manager DACH & The Netherlands. All new appointments became effective from March 1st.

Prior to her new role, Nancy worked at HP for more than 18 years, latterly at a global director level, before taking a short career break.

“Hahnemühle is a company with a long history and ambitious plans which I am delighted to be given the opportunity to be part of,” she enthuses. “Hahnemühle’s vision, passion for customers, innovative products and sustainability mindset, are what attracted me to the company, along with the ‘can do’ team spirit.”

Nancy further notes that the firm’s product mix “results in a diverse set of customers, including artists, technicians and scientists, along with a diverse set of customer needs”. Highlighting the fact that that all of the firm’s papers are vegan, she adds that sustainability is “a living tradition at Hahnemühle”.

HAHNEMÜHLE BRINGS THE SUGAR

texture, while being acid free and archival with it. Images printed on the premium matt paper also possess enhanced contrast, which gives artwork a three dimensional appearance and makes it come alive, says the brand. A natural white paper without the use of optical brighteners, it’s worth adding that it’s compatible with both pigment and dye based inkjet systems.

Staying with the sustainable products for a moment, late last year Hahnemühle also introduced the world’s first hybrid printing paper made from hemp fibres; an uncoated paper for book and brochure printing recommended for HP Indigo sheet-fed digital presses, as well as HP PageWide web presses. Again, like all its paper grades, the new Hemp paper is produced with pure spring water and even the energy used for manufacturing comes exclusively from 100% renewable sources. Speak to your local Hahnemühle account manager for more! www.hahnemuehle.co.uk The production of the new Sugar Cane paper utilises the by-product left over once the sugar has been extracted from the sugar cane plant – something that would otherwise be incinerated or thrown away.

Each plant produces multiple storks and grows between three and seven metres in height, becoming fully mature in 12 to 14 months. The Sugar Cane paper, comprised of 70% sugar cane fibres and 30% cotton, is 300gsm in thickness and, says Hahnemühle, boasts a tactile ‘felt’ like

A case in point is the Hahnemühle Sugar Cane Digital FineArt paper (sample surface & sizes shown), the newest addition to its TIPA award winning Natural Line of Digital FineArt papers for inkjet printers, which becomes the fourth resource-saving paper in its award winning portfolio of papers for photographers and artists (the others being Bamboo, Hemp and Agave). As regular readers will be aware, the Natural Line is notable for using renewable and sustainable fibres in its production. In addition, 5% of proceeds from the sales of these papers go into a ‘Green Rooster Fund’ – the rooster referencing the manufacturer’s logo – that helps finance reforestation and conservation projects.

News from Hahnemühle: new eco-friendly Sugar Cane option added to its TIPA acclaimed Natural Line of Digital Fine Art papers NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | April / May 2022 15

BPI News Product Focus

DPS GROUP ENTICES CUSTOM WITH EPSON’S ‘SURE’ THINGS

Photo retailers, photographers and mini labs looking for a ‘sure’ thing when it comes to adding a pro photo printer to their set up are directed to the Epson SureColor SC-700 and SC-P900, available via official reseller the DPS Group

F

irst launched in 2020 just as the pandemic began to bite, the still current inkjet duo of the Epson SureColor SC-900 and SCP700 – advanced A2+ and A3+ photo printers respectively – are well worth closer inspection. Further impetus is provided by the fact that the SC-P700 was named Best Photo Printer in the EISA Awards 2021-2022, of which the judges said: “This A3+ printer allows professional and ambitious amateur photographers to make long lasting prints of their most-cherished images.”

While the main target market for these advanced printers is the professional photographer, the manufacturer also recommends them to photo labs, studios and, of course, semi pro and enthusiast photographers.

As ever, the DPS Group is the official Epson reseller you need to contact in order to secure your stock, or install either one of the duo on your own premises.

Audience aside, what’s striking here is the printers’ ‘non printer’ look and feel, Epson’s philosophy being to make them as easy on the eye as the prints they produce, while ensuring they’re relatively compact and lightweight with it. In fact their maker claims they offer the smallest and lightest footprint in their class.

PERFECT UNION OF FORM & FUNCTION Substance as well as style is ultimately what’s on offer here. Both printers feature black enhance overcoat technology, Carbon Black Mode and UltraChrome Pro 10 ink to deliver what’s described as the truest, deepest blacks. Other features to entice both you and your customer base include three different paper paths; a black ‘D-Max’ value of 2.95; a 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen with a customisable user interface; a spindle-less integrated roll unit on the SC-P700 (an optional extra for the SC-P900); plus an auto

Black magic: Epson’s SC-700 (left) and SC-900 (right) are claimed by the manufacturer to boast the smallest and lightest footprint in their class, without outwardly resembling what we’d expect of a printer

“These printers have been designed to appeal to those with an eye for detail, combining form with function. The accuracy and quality of the output is further enhanced by the deepest blacks.”

DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel sheet feeding system promising a hassle free fine art media feed. Additionally, the construction features enhanced sealing to protect from dust and dirt.

“In short these printers have been designed to appeal to those with an eye for detail, combining form with function,” enthuses DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel.

“The accuracy and quality of the output is further enhanced by the deepest blacks and an expanded blue colour gamut, producing life-like results.”

Your Epson SureColor SC-900 & SC-P700 crib sheet: Epson Media Installer for ease of use Wider range of media accommodated thanks to three different paper paths 4.3-inch touchscreen LCD can be operated when wearing gloves Expanded blue colour gamut helps deliver ultra realistic results Colour managed printing is made functional and flexible via Epson Print Layout Spindle-less integrated roll unit on SC-P700 (optional for SC-P900) Smallest footprint and lightest in their class Enhanced sealing to protect from dust and dirt

Get in touch with the DPS Group now to place your order for either or both of the Epson SureColor SC-P900 and SC-P700. Contact sales@dpsb.co.uk or call 020 8466 7230. www.thedpsgroup.co.uk www.dpsb.co.uk

To add the Epson SureColor SC-P900 and SC-P700 to your minilab or studio set up, get in touch via sales@dpsb.co.uk 16 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Product Focus

SIGMA’S 3-OF-A-KIND FOR FUJI X MOUNT USERS

The optical specialist is making its acclaimed DC DN trio of lenses – already available in Sony E-mount, Micro Four Thirds, L Mount and Canon EF-M mount – available for Fujifilm X mount cameras this April. BPI News outlines why retailers and photographers alike should seek them out

G

ot Fuji X mount mirrorless camera owners looking for affordable and ultra sharp alternatives to that manufacturer’s own lens line up? The great news is that Sigma has expanded the compatibility offered by its existing trio of DC DN f/1.4 prime lenses for mirrorless cameras to now include Fujifilm’s X series. The lenses in question, which all fall under the manufacturer’s ‘Contemporary’ umbrella, are the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN, 30mm f/1.4 and 56mm f/1.4, with availability for Fuji users promised this April.

The 16mm lens couples a wide-angle equivalent of 24mm in 35mm film camera terms with that fast/bright f/1.4 aperture. Comprised of 16 elements in 13 groups and promising swift and quiet motor drive auto focus, the lens features an aberration-combatting construction incorporating two spherical elements, two SLD and three FLD elements. With a filter size of 67mm and minimum focus distance of 25cm, the lens weighs a sturdy yet manageable 405g. Suggested retail price is £359.

With a construction comprised of 9 elements in 7 groups, the 30mm option meanwhile provides an equivalent focal length of 45mm and promises both fast and quiet AF and a beautiful ‘bokeh’ courtesy of a 9-bladed diaphragm.

With a 52mm filter size and minimum focus distance of 30cm, this lens weighs a manageably portable 275g.

SRP is a value-for-money £289.

Thirdly, the 56mm lens offers the 35mm equivalent of 84mm, making it an

High achievers: Now Fujifilm X mount camera owners also have access to Sigma’s f/1.4 prime lens trio. This sample image of Tokyo’s Shibuya crossing reveals the degree of detail deliverable

ideal lens for portrait photographers. As well as that bright aperture, the £379 SRP lens is compact and relatively lightweight at 280g. With a 55mm filter size offered, construction is comprised of 10 elements in 6 groups, and the lens features the same stepping motor AF and rounded 9-bladed diaphragm as its siblings.

Minimum focus distance here is 50cm.

In all cases the lenses support continuous AF (AF-C) while the mounts are rubber sealed to allow use in a variety of environments. Lens hoods are supplied with each.

THE PERFECT FIT FOR MIRRORLESS As noted in our introduction, as well as being made available for Fuji users, these

three lenses are already available in Sony E-mount, Canon EF-M mount, Micro Four Thirds and L-Mounts, meaning that pretty much whichever mirrorless camera your photographer customer is using, Sigma literally has the ideal fit.

Additionally, if required, Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service is available to convert other mounts of these three lenses to the Fujifilm X mount; useful, for example, if a photographer customer is tempted to swap systems.

In related news and sticking to its current theme of good news arriving in threes, Sigma has announced that development is underway for a new three-layer sensor, a prototype for which is currently undergoing stages one and two of evaluation before progressing to stage three, which will verify the potential for mass production of said chip. The official quote from Sigma’s CEO Kazuto Yamaki states: “Although we have not yet reached the stage where we can announce a specific schedule for mass production, we are determined to do our best to bring this camera to market as soon as possible.” Stay tuned for more news from the proactive manufacturer as we have it, and in the meantime contact your local rep now to secure stock of the three Fujifilm X-mount compatible lenses. www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

All of Sigma’s lenses come with the benefit of a three-year limited warranty. Visit www.sigma-imaging-uk.com @bpi_news

BPI News | April / May 2022 17

Pro Lab News

THE PROOF IS IN THE PRINTING: FUJIFILM EMPOWERS THE PHOTO BOOM Fujifilm continues its ‘Print To Prove It’ campaign to get photographers printing, dangling the offer of three free prints on Lustre or Gloss Fujifilm Professional Photo Paper in order to get them hooked on the quality and finish of a hard copy

W

e first covered Fujifilm’s Print To Prove It campaign in summer of 2021, mid pandemic, when the periods of lockdown and isolation encouraged many of us to dig through hard drives and memory cards groaning with digital files and finally turn them into photo books or standalone prints. Moreover, businesses also witnessed the positive impact adding printing to their services in order to meet this boosted demand had on their bottom line.

Since then, there have unsurprisingly been reports of such activity being part and parcel of a longer-term photo printing ‘boom’, which is all very positive news for our trade. In fact, industry watcher Future Source predicts that we’ll witness growth of up to 57.9% for the photo merchandise market by 2024 (compared with pre-pandemic), with said market worth a staggering £330m.

Fujifilm’s latest Print To Prove It campaign for 2022 sees it working with three professional photographers in order to encourage fellow photographers to take up the offer of three free 10x8 or 12x8-inch photographic prints on a choice of Lustre or Gloss Fujifilm Professional Photo Paper – the hope being they’ll be blown away by the quality and this will kick-start the development of a long-term creative print habit.

MEET THE ADVOCATES The photographers involved in the campaign are commendably diverse: wedding specialist Scott Johnson, newborn and maternity artist Elli Cassidy, plus street photographer Bal Bhatla, known as ‘Mr Whisper’. Each has had a different journey into printing and boasts a very unique style, yet they all share the same love of photographic printing.

Scott comments: “I have been involved with wedding photography since I was 18 working in a pro lab and now professional printing is integral to my business. Prints are the legacy left behind from the big day, so they must

Fujifilm continues to be proactive in pushing the benefits of high quality prints, suggesting they’re the legacy photographers leave behind

be of the best quality for every client.

“I use Fujifilm Pro Labs because I know that the images I have taken with my GFX camera will be true to life when printed. All the details, highlights and shadows will be produced exactly as I want them. The team also knows how

I want my images to look, as well as my style, so I have full confidence that my prints will come back perfect every time.”

Elli says: “I am very much a productbased photographer, and it is really important that every client leaves with beautiful print of their baby. When it comes to getting my portraits printed, I will only use Pro Labs because I know that they will provide accurate colours that match the careful editing that I have done. I can also trust that the prints on beautiful, high-quality paper will last for my clients.

“Ultimately, your printed products are the proof of your skill as a professional photographer, both to your existing and prospective clients. I recommend visiting your nearest Lab and beginning the conversation. They are experts and have plenty of advice and knowledge to give any photographer when it comes to printing. Having a tour of a Pro Lab and seeing the full capability that they have is a fantastic way to see what you could be doing with your own photography business.”

Scan this QR code to be taken straight to Fujifilm’s ‘Print To Prove It’ promotion

Birth of an idea: Newborn photographer Elli Cassidy notes that her printed products are proof of her skill as a pro photographer, both to existing and prospective clients

To discover how Fujifilm can inspire ideas and help boost the profile and bottom line of your own store or minilab, get in touch 18 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Fujifilm Advertorial

FUTURE PROOF PRINTING FOR PRO LABS

Best foot forward: After consultation with a Fujifilm Pro Lab Partner, street photographer Bal Bhatla used lockdown to launch an online shop for his prints

Custom comes flocking: Wedding photographer Scott Johnson says that professional printing is integral to his business and needs the very best quality

Taking Print To Prove It national to Fujifilm Pro Labs across the country is our way of allowing all photographers, professional and enthusiast, to understand the value of high-quality photographic printing for their brand and customers.”

Fujifilm UK General Manager Theo Georghiades Mr Whisper says: “Initially an ad hoc service to my clients, over lockdown I was able to launch an online shop for my prints after having some consultations with a Fujifilm Professional Lab Partner. After discussing my work and understanding the paper options, sizes and other media available with the team, I was able to bring my work to life and show the value to customers.

“In addition, after the initial consultations, I was comfortable that every piece I print through the lab and sell on my online store would be high quality and special for each customer.”

A STRONG WORKING RELATIONSHIP “With a lucrative market at their fingertips, we want to help professional photographers see the impact printing can have on their business,” explains Fujifilm General Manager Theo Georghiades. “Taking Print To Prove It national to Fujifilm Pro Labs across the country is our way of allowing all photographers, professional and enthusiast, to understand the value

of high-quality photographic printing for their brand and customers.

“We are putting our money where our mouth is when it comes to our photographic paper and hope that strong working relationships between photographers and Pro Labs are formed in the process.”

In fact Print To Prove It sees Fujifilm team up with nine of its Professional Lab Partners to offer free prints. With labs in London, the Midlands, South East, North East and Scotland participating, UK photographers will be able to speak to their local expert and visit to discuss what they are looking for from printing.

To claim the prints, photographers must simply submit their interest before being directed to one of the participating Pro Labs. Find out more at www.fujifilmprinttoproveit.com

GET IN TOUCH For more information on how to join up to the Print To Prove It campaign, and to hear more from Fujifilm’s advocates about their printing journeys, visit www.fujifilmprinttoproveit.com

Looking for a new silver halide minilab to meet the most demanding of photo printing environments? Enter the Fujifilm Frontier LP9700. The promise here is a dependable machine boasting high quality output, plus quick processing of photo print sizes from 6x4-inches to 12x10-inches at a rate of an impressive 2,117 prints per hour.

“Now more than ever, consumers are purchasing a greater amount of a wider array of photo print products,” acknowledges Fujifilm UK’s Group Technical Manager Leyton Prosser. “The introduction of the new Frontier LP9700 silver halide minilab enables busy photographic labs to exceed their customer expectations in terms of high speed performance and outstanding print quality.”

The device uses laser exposure technology and image processing claimed to be ‘best in class’ to ensure the best possible print quality from images taken on any device, Fujifilm says, whilst achieving swift processing across a breadth of products.

The latter can include panoramas, square prints, collages, calendars, cards, or enlarged prints of 12x18-inches. For the first time it can also print on ultra thin Album Paper XS for use in photobooks.

Fujifilm’s Leyton concludes: “The way people are taking photos is changing.

The Frontier LP9700 provides all the capabilities for reproducing fine detail, vivid colour tones and definition, enabling the production of the highest quality photo prints that customers expect from their photo lab.

“This latest generation Fujifilm silver halide minilab aims to ensure photo labs have the best possible photo printing equipment, in order to deliver the image processing and exceptionally high-quality output that will support their businesses’ future growth.”

For more, get in touch with your local rep or direct your browser at: www.fujifilm.com/uk/en/business/ photofinishing/frontier/lp9700

with Fujifilm Photo Print Services at photoimaging_uk@fujifilm.com or by visiting www.fujifilmphotoservices.co.uk NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | April / May 2022 19

Business Advice

SHIELDING YOUR BUSINESS FROM RISING COSTS How can we best protect our livelihoods in a world in which changes are fast accelerating and the cost of not only doing business but also merely existing is rising to unprecedented levels, due to higher energy prices and disruption of global supplies? We’ve parachuted in business expert Adam Bernstein to find out

T

he last two years have been miserable. First there was Brexit, which has made life harder and more expensive. Then came COVID-19 that caused societies and businesses to grind to a halt. An inflation-stoking recovery followed. Now we have war between Russia and Ukraine. Restricted supplies, sanctions, and even greater levels of inflation are the corollary of that.

Everywhere we turn prices are on the up.

But is there anything that business owners can do to limit the impact that doesn’t

involving slashing their workforce, asking staff to take a pay-cut, or more drastic action still? The answer is an emphatic ‘yes’.

FIND RELIEF IN TAXING TIMES For starters, although quickly criticised for not going far enough, a modicum of help came from the Chancellor in his March Spring Statement. Fuel duty was cut, for only the second time in 20 years, by five pence per litre until March 2023.

However, a fall in market prices for oil

generally will be of greater interest, as will a rise in Sterling against the Dollar, since oil is priced in that currency. Sites such as confused.com and petrolprices.com can help drivers needing to re-fuel their delivery vans find the lowest cost fuel in any given locality; the latter also has a smartphone app and can send frequent updates on fuel prices at user-defined locations.

Next, there’s help in terms of National Insurance Contributions (NIC) for the lowest paid as the threshold has been lifted by £3,000 per year so that workers

Got great ideas about shielding your photo business against the cost of living crisis that, in generous fashion, 20 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Cost of Living Crisis will be able to earn £12,570 before many retailers could save a small fortune The British Insurance Brokers Association paying NIC or income tax. Those by not heating the outside world. has a broker finder tool on its website. earning above the new threshold, which Another step is to check utility tariffs In the same vein, systems from EPoS comes into effect in July, will save £330 and seek help from an energy consultant – card readers and so on – should be a year, though they will still have to – they’re listed on search engines – in benchmarked for value. The same applies pay the new 1.25% social care levy. finding the best tariff. The market is to any banking facilities; the key is to As for the self-employed, there are in a state of flux at present and good ensure appropriate and flexible facilities plans to align the thresholds where deals have vanished, but if nothing else, that are competitively priced. UK Finance the self-employed start paying class 2 consultants can diarise to remind when no longer has a bank account comparison NIC and class 4 NIC with the personal a current deal is due to end. Similarly, tool, but it does have advice for SMEs allowance, but not immediately. Class 4 advice should be taken from the Energy wanting to change bank. It also has NIC lower profits limit will rise to £11,908 Saving Trust on becoming more energy detail on how to cut down on fraud – a for 2022/23 and then be aligned with efficient, with tools provided on its sure fire way to increase profitability. the personal allowance of £12,570 from website (www.energysavingtrust.org.uk) Beyond that, Which? has a comparison 6 April 2023. And from 2022/23, the for that purpose. guide on business bank accounts. And threshold for paying class 2 NIC will be merchantmachine.co.uk has guides on aligned with that for card processing fees paying Class 4 NIC. and payment services.

We can’t alter the fact that prices are rising for all Income tax has The point is to and businesses, especially those involved with retail, stayed the same examine phone, are being squeezed. However, there are steps that for the moment, Internet, waste can be taken to limit the impact.” but the plan is to management, fuel, cut it from 20p maintenance, and in the pound to 19p by 2024. equipment leases – anything paid for HOLD LESS STOCK Small businesses do however get to on a contractual basis – checking service lower their National Insurance bills ‘Just in time’ manufacturing was levels and what is being charged for. as the Employment Allowance has pioneered in the 1970s by Toyota as If there’s unhappiness, a move should been uprated to help them and will it sought to minimise stock holding be made. Part of this process may be raised from £4,000 to £5,000. while making its manufacturing involve a spreadsheet with costs from The apprenticeship levy – the UK process more efficient. Retail isn’t alternative providers, which can be used tax on employers which is used to quite in the same boat, but firms to negotiate with incumbent suppliers. fund apprenticeship training – is to be may be holding plenty of stock that, We can also seek discounted or free reviewed, although, to be fair, unless a unless it’s unique or in extremely high alternatives. Microsoft recently brought business is a large entity with an annual demand, will only ever depreciate. in huge price increases for users of pay bill of more than £3m, it won’t be Although retailers need stock to its software. However, the likes of paying in. In fact, just 2% of employers sell, they shouldn’t hold more than LibreOffice and OpenOffice are free to pay the apprenticeship levy. However, necessary. So, rather than guessing use. And for those using imagery on a just because a firm isn’t paying in, doesn’t at what sells well and what does not, website or elsewhere, unsplash.com mean that it cannot draw down on funds a wise retailer will go back through has images that are invariably free to train staff. In this instance, non-levy ordering records and compare to stock to use – even commercially. paying employers pay just 5% of the held and if it’s not selling, discount cost of an apprenticeship course; the to crystalise what value it can.

PASS INCREASES ON government covers the remaining 95% Allied to this, especially where an through the process of ‘co-investment’. order is likely to be fulfilled remotely, Lastly, the final way to mitigate the Energy efficiency measures have been some retailers have drop shipment impact of rising business costs is to raise zero-rated for VAT, so the likes of solar agreements with their supplier. prices. In a competitive market this power and heat pumps will fall in price.

They get revenue without having to isn’t overly desirable, but a business Granted, most businesses recover VAT commit space to holding stock, and needs to make money on what it sells on purchases (except for cars) anyway, in exchange, suppliers get to move or else it will fail. Even a small increase but the unregistered should find that more product, with the knock-on effect can help, even if it’s temporary. going energy efficient pays dividends. being less overheads of their own.

However, knowing what the On making businesses more energy We’ve alluded to checking utility bills, competition is doing is key, as customers efficient, there are several steps that but there are other bills that should be will only pay what the market will bear.

SMEs can take. Firstly, managers ought regularly benchmarked (‘regularly’ being Once pricing has been set, next to take a walk around their premises defined as whenever a contract can be work out what can be done to optimise looking for simple changes that can be broken without penalty); insurances business processes that lower costs, made, such as fitting switches that turn are a case in point, of which buildings, which is a better longterm plan than off lights when a room is empty. Fitting contents and motor insurance are perfect simply being reactive and raising energy efficient lighting burns less energy examples. Investing a little time trawling prices from one week to the next. and generates less heat and so requires the market or in engaging a broker to do Ultimately we can’t alter the fact that less work by air-conditioning. Cleaning the same can reap rewards. Insurance is prices are rising for all and businesses, windows and removing obstructions only productive when disaster strikes, but especially those involved with retail, to allow in more (free) natural light, that doesn’t mean that firms must pay are being squeezed. However, turning off equipment when not in use, through the nose beforehand. Be aware there are steps that can be taken lagging pipes and boilers to retain heat, though that cheap insurance isn’t always to limit the impact. It’s just a and when the heating is on, closing shop good insurance – buyers need to be question of examining everything doors are a few relatively easy fixes. So certain that valid claims will be honoured. and leaving no stone unturned.

you’d care to share with fellow members of the trade? Then do get in touch with us direct via info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | April / May 2022 21

News

NANLITE’S SALES ‘PROJECTION’

A world of images Category winners and shortlisted finalists were being slowly teased out by the Sony sponsored World Photography Awards as we went to press, in advance of the overall winner of the Open competition being announced on April 12th, and an exhibition opening at the regular venue of London’s Somerset House, which runs from April 13th to May 2nd this year. Two of the category winners are from the UK this year, with Isabel Salmon (above) being acknowledged in the ‘Creative’ category and Scott Wilson (below) for ‘Natural World and Wildlife’.

The Open competition for 2022 has been judged by Hideko Kataoka, Director of Photography at Newsweek Japan. www.worldphoto.org

The Nanlite range of lighting products, available to the trade via distributor MAC Group Europe, is being expanded with a new FZPJBM Projection Attachment in both 19° and 36° lens versions. These are compatible with the Bowens ‘S’ type mount, thus allowing use with its Forza 200, 300/300B, 500, FS-150, FS-200 and FS-200 products and claiming to make Nanlite’s offerings a great asset for both stills shooters and videographers.

Features include a special treatment on the inner wall that is claimed to make the image ‘more homogeneous’ and the edge of the illumination circle sharper. An aspherical lens has been designed to eliminate aberration effectively with increased uniformity and reduce distortion, with an aluminium alloy die cast metal body striking a balance between durability and weight.

The FZPJBM Projection Attachment and accompanying accessories are packed within a flight case with a choice of either of the two lens options, plus four ‘B’ sized GOBO’s to create complex light patterns and a gel frame that can be added to the front to combat colour casts, at an SRP of £620 for the 19° lens kit and £588 for the 36°. An optional FZPJBMAI adjustable iris at £75.30 SRP is said to provide easy control over the size of the illumination circle via a convenient focusing mechanism, thus allowing for creative lighting choices. www.nanlite.co.uk

Samyang puts Sony users in the frame There’s a further new lens announcement from Holdan and its distributed optical brand this month in the Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE II lens, which is aimed at Sony full frame and APS-C mirrorless camera users. It’s described as a second-generation evolution of its full frame standard prime lens optimised for portraits, landscapes and shooting video, featuring two key innovations in the Focus Hold button and Custom Switch. This means that both 50mm and 35mm, the two major angles of view within Samyang’s f/1.4 FE line up, have now been updated. Other features of the lens include a 29cm minimum focus distance, 9-blade circular aperture design for delivering smooth ‘bokeh’ background blur effects and Samyang’s Linear Stepping Motor (STM) providing precise and quiet AF and tracking.

“We’re very excited about the new AF 35mm f/1.4 FE II lens and what it will deliver to our photo and video markets,” enthuses Holdan’s Divisional Director David Fidler. Email sales@holdan.co.uk for more. www.holdan.co.uk

Published for over 35 years, BPI News is your industry’s only dedicated title aimed at retailers, distributors, minilabs and manufacturers 22 April / May 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

17-20 SE PT EM BER 2022, TH E NEC, B IRMINGH AM

JOIN GLOBAL BRANDS AND REACH A CAPTIVE AUDIENCE OF THOUSANDS LIMITED EXHIBITION SPACE REMAINS CAL L NOW TO DISCUSS OPT ION S! Contact Richard Macey on +44 (0)20 7042 4284 or email richard.macey@futurenet.com

P H O T O G R A P H YS H O W. C O M

Supported by

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES THAT DISPLAY THE TIPA LOGO IS YOUR ASSURANCE OF THEIR OUTSTANDING

QUALITY, DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE

Every year since 1991 TIPA awards have been given to the best photo, video and imaging products. The TIPA logo is awarded by a large group of respected editors of technical magazines and websites from around the world, including the Camera Journal Press Club of Japan.

Visit our website to learn more about our organization and TIPA World Awards www.tipa.com