British Photographic Industry News May 2017 by British Photographic Industry News (BPI News)

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Putting the photo trade in the picture for over 30 years

MAY 2017 • £3

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The Innovation Issue Hot new photo gear to shake up the market & inspire fresh ideas – inside!

PLUratSio!n of

A celeb phy: a r g o t o ph WARD A S W E BPI N NERS! +

Motivational May: Ideas to incentivise and inspire your photo store’s sales team to snap to it & boost trade for summer 2017

Illuminating the way to creativity and profit: Rotolight’s innovative AEOS hybrid LED and flash enters the new product spotlight

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EDITORIAL | May 2017

Photographic British

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published monthly by

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

Follow us on Twitter... @bpi_news 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 ©2017 Legacy Media Ltd. ISSN: to be advised.

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Innovation still key to success

hen people are excited about a logo, to stick on your product or point of sale product, they tend to want to buy (to give customers that extra confidence to it. So how to get people suitably buy) can never hurt. enthused? Well, producing something Innovation can also extend to the art of truly different to what has gone before is a selling itself – and our business feature for good start. In a time of (typically) Firmware May looks at motivating and incentivising upgrades instead of hardware upgrades, sales staff. But this time of year I’m always it’s tricky to get potential customers overly reminded of how we – not only magazines, excited about a few under-the-bonnet but retailers, manufacturers and suppliers Gavin Stoker, tweaks. But once in a while we are pleasantly – could do better yet. Chiefly from looking Editor surprised by a piece of new camera gear: Fuji’s at the success of Record Store Day gavin@bpinews.co.uk (recordstoreday.co.uk), which takes place GFX was one such product at the start of the @GavinStoker year, and this month it’s the turn of Sony’s α9 annually. Having just celebrated its 10th year, to likewise provide a potential game changer. this innovation – arriving via the States – was Nobody will have failed to notice that both are premium set up to stem the tide of independent music shops priced – as that is where the market is at the moment. closing, faced with the threat to bricks and mortar from The people buying cameras are not only those with the the Internet, rising rents etc. Sound familiar? money to spend, but are those who actively love their I’ve long thought the camera trade would greatly hobby (or for whom photography is their business). benefit from its own ‘Photo Store Day’, to get people Innovation is also rewarded this month via the who wouldn’t regularly visit a shop or mini lab back TIPA Awards – voted on by specialist photo and tech through the doors, tempted by double cash backs, magazines – and we also announce the winners in our visiting photographers dishing out advice, and timeBPI News Trade Awards, voted for by you the readers. limited deals. It would need manufacturers, suppliers Turn to pages 24 and 10 respectively for the lowdown and retailers to pull together, but in this social media on both. There’s debate, of course, as to whether awards age, it wouldn’t be that hard to set up and promote. truly make a difference to sales, but everybody likes the So who’s with us? Thoughts on a postcard, or email recognition of a job well done. Plus an extra badge, or equivalent please!

CONTENTS

16 PISTON POWER YOUR SALES WITH MANFROTTO’S NITROTECH Innovation is a key theme this issue; Manfrotto steps up to the (camera) plate with its new Nitrotech N8 Video Head, providing continuous counterbalance

04 NEWS New camera bonanza: Nikon drops a new DSLR in the D7500, Canon pitches the PowerShot SX730 HS, plus how to sell the new Sony α9 and Panasonic TZ90 10 BPI NEWS AWARDS 2017 For the past few months we’ve asked you to vote for your Product of the Year and Promotion of the Year. The results are finally in and we speak to the victors!

20 ROTOLIGHT LAUNCHES PORTABLE AEOS LED LIGHT The lighting specialist follows its innovative Neo and Anova products with another potential game changer in the ‘AEOS’, pitched at location photographers

12 FUJIFILM EXPANDS THE GFX SYSTEM The photo specialist has announced two new lenses for its fledgling GFX system, an updated roadmap, plus an innovative new Instax camera in its popular range

22 SIGMA’S TIPA TWOSOME BROADEN DEALERS’ SALES FOCUS We discover why its 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art and 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lenses picked up a trade accolade, and why you should be stocking them!

George Mayer’s image was a WPO Award winner. See news page 10

Subscriptions, back issues & BPI News online Overseas annual subscription £50 (Cheques payable to Legacy Media Ltd). For details email info@bpinews.co.uk. View current and back issues online at www.bpinews.co.uk

SPECIAL OFFER FREE VW Hamper Barbecue. *When you spend £350 on Frames & Albums in May.

GIFT OF THE YEAR 2017 WINNER The ultimate BBQ companion. Carry your food in the cool bag that attaches to the light weight metal frame. When the bag is detached it folds out to become a stand for your portable BBQ. Fits regular and large BBQ’s. Includes disposable BBQ *Speak to your Swains Regional Sales Manager for details

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@bpi_news

sales@swains.co.uk

BPI News | May 2017 3

NEWS

FLAMING JUNE FOR NIKON DSLR NIKON HAS EARMARKED the end of June for the launch of a new enthusiast DSLR in the D7500, at £1299.99 (body only SRP). Promised this time around is the same image quality as its flagship APS-C DSLR, the D500. Like that model it offers 20.9 megapixels and an ISO range extending up to an equivalent ISO1,640,000. A maximum shooting speed of 8fps is also offered. Ergonomic improvements, according to the manufacturer, come in the shape of a new tilting, touchscreen monitor, plus a deep grip for added stability. In a nutshell, “the D7500 delivers the same superb image quality as the D500 but in a smaller, more lightweight

body with easier handling,” according to Senior Product Manager Tim Carter. “For amateur photographers who are looking to up their game and deliver best-inclass imagery, but perhaps don’t need so many of the professional features that the D500 offers, the D7500 is perfect.” Nikon is also offering your

customers a bundle with its AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens for £1599.99 all-in. www.nikon.co.uk

SONY DRESSES PROS UP TO THE ‘9’S THE ELECTRONICS BEHEMOTH has dropped a high-end full frame interchangeable lens camera in the £4,500 α9 – which is available from June. Pitched at professionals and described as ‘revolutionary’, the

©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

24.2 megapixel camera promises Dealers should pitch Sony’s to marry speed with operability new swift shooting camera at pros, including wildlife and and versatility; as a case in point, sports photographers a continuous shooting speed of a whopping 20fps for up to 241 Raw / Lumix National Trust POS 362 JPEG images is promised. worth mentioning to Complimentary 12 month national Also trust membership with the lumiX FZ200 or FZ72 Description • Complimentary National potential customers are a massive Trust Membership limentary 12 month national trust POS 693-point phase detection AFCampaign points, ership with the lumiX FZ200 or FZ72 further pro features including an Ethernet port for file transfer, dual SD card slots, 4K video capture and five axis in-body image stabilisation. In conclusion Sony makes the bold claim that its α9 ‘offers a level of imaging performance that is simply unmatched by any camera Also aimed at the same potential A3 Poster ever created – mirror-less, SLR or audience is the manufacturer’s ‘Master Wobbler otherwise.’ G’ lens, shown right A bunch of accessories to complement the camera launch have Joining the new camera from ou need to go to speCial plaCes also ben announced. These include July will be the equally new FE 100ver hundreds of new special places re every stunning detail with the a Vertical Grip, Grip Extension, 400mm GM Super Telephoto Zoom FZ72. Eyepiece Cup, Battery Charger, lens. The Master G series lens, which Yann Salmon-Legagneur, Product shatterproof glass screen protector Sony claims as its furthest reaching Marketing at Sony Europe, shows off its Hang Tag latest full frame beast and Multi Battery Adapter kit. E-mount optic, has a suggested ©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

to take a speCial piCture you need to go to speCial plaCes Now you and your family can discover hundreds of new special places with the National Trust and capture every stunning detail with the award-winning new LUMIX FZ200 or FZ72.

Promotional period: 22/08/2013 – 31/12/2013. Promotional terms apply, please see panasonic.co.uk/promotions *Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH. ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG

T48046 Panasonic_A3_Poster.indd 1

21/08/2013 13:54

©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

Complimentary 12 month national trust membership with the lumiX FZ200 or FZ72

tional terms apply, please see panasonic.co.uk/promotions R GmbH. ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG

21/08/2013 13:56

T48046 Panasonic_A4_Cling.indd 1

price tag of £2500. Unsurprisingly the target audiences for the lens are sports and wildlife photographers. www.sony.co.uk

21/08/2013 13:59

A4 Cling

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NEWS

SMALL CAMERA, BIG REACH THAT’S YOUR PITCH to potential customers for Canon’s latest compact super zoom / travel camera. The new PowerShot SX730 HS weds a 40x optical zoom to a 20.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, and at 39.9mm ‘thick’ is conveniently pocket sized. Further selling points include continuous shooting up to 5.9fps, 0.12-second AF response, Full HD video, tilting 7.5cm LCD screen, plus Bluetooth connectivity. SRP is £379.99 and availability is from this month.

In related news, the photo giant has also launched a new lens for its APS-C DSLR owner

customers in the EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM, looking to enable crystal clear close ups. Featuring the manufacturer’s built-in Macro Lite technology to illuminate small objects whilst minimising shadows, it’s claimed as the first lens of its kind in the EF-S range. Offering life size 1x magnification, closest working distance is 30mm, whilst the lens is also optically image stabilised. Again available this month, SRP is £399.99. www.canon.co.uk

Have Panasonic(s), will travel WITH ATTENTION TURNING to possible summer holidays, Panasonic has picked June to unleash a new pocket-friendly travel zoom compact in the Lumix DCTZ90, which again arrives with a 4K video shooting capability, and this time a 30x optical reach, offering a 35mm equivalent focal range of a versatile 24-720mm.

Resolution has been given a boost, up from the 18.1 megapixels of its TZ80 predecessor to 20.3 megapixels this time around. Functions include Post Focus and Focus Stacking, plus the camera claims a swift 0.1-second AF response. Burst shooting of up to a maximum 10fps is offered, whilst a 3-inch, 1040K dot resolution LCD screen can be tilted to face the subject for selfies. Another new feature is ‘Panorama Selfie’, putting the photographer at the centre of a sweeping landscape. SRP is £399. John Lewis has an exclusive on a DC-TZ93 kit that adds a case and a spare battery for £499 all-in.

Passport to success with Swains THE DISTRIBUTOR is offering the photo trade its new biometric passport system in ‘fastID’, describing it as an affordable solution for small businesses. The pitch is that it comes equipped with the same software as the normal ID station, meaning that it can produce passport and visa photos for any country in the world. Each system has over 100 pre-set templates, with more able to be added on request. With the past year seeing UK and Irish governments introducing online services for renewing passports and driving licenses, Swains has built in special templates for FastID to satisfy

@bpi_news

requirements. Digital copies can now be saved to customers flash drives or simply e-mailed. Discover more via your Regional Sales Manager or call Swains on 01485 536 200. www.swains.co.uk

In related news, Panasonic’s mirrorless camera owners get a new wide zoom lens in the Leica DG VarioElmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0 ASPH (left), which offers the 35mm equivalent of 16-36mm. Presented in metallic black, the added pitch is that this is a useful daily lens for your customers, as it covers a wide variety (no pun intended!) of possible shooting scenarios. Its manufacturer adds that it excels at video performance. SRP is £1049, with availability from the end of May. Panasonic also promises that

The electronic’s giant’s TZ compact series has always been a strong seller, the new TZ90 looks to continue that trend

its lens line up will further expand with an additional 50-200mm telephoto zoom (100-400mm equivalent, when attached to one of its cameras). More news as we have it! www.panasonic.co.uk

Tetenal’s new man at the top TETENAL UK’S PARENT company, Tetenal Europe GmbH, has a new man at the helm in MD Daniel Middendorf (below). Daniel succeeds Matthias Hübener, who had led the company for more than 24 years. Matthias says: “I am delighted to be handing over the reins of the Tetenal Group to an experienced businessman in Daniel Middendorf, who, together with the international Tetenal management team, will continue to actively drive forward the customer-oriented strategy and development of our company.” Although Matthias Hübener is withdrawing from the day-today operational running of the company, as the main shareholder, he will continue to be associated with Tetenal in an advisory capacity.

During the course of his own career, Daniel has held management positions in the consumer goods industry, in companies supplying technical-industrial consumer goods and in the automotive industry. “My objective is to continue to develop Tetenal with its brands in the next few years as a b2b-oriented imaging specialist, to strengthen and expand its leading position internationally,” explains the new MD. www.tetenal.co.uk

BPI News | May 2017 5

NEWS

SOUVENIR NIKONS COMMEMORATE 100TH YEAR IT’S TIME FOR the photo stalwart to receive a telegram from the Queen. As part of this year’s centenary celebrations, it’s inviting your customers to treat themselves with one of its exclusive anniversary products. These include 100th Anniversary Editions of its flagship D5 and D500 DSLRs in a metallic grey finish, with the D5 bearing a stamp noting Nikon’s contribution to the study of space. The D500 comes with a metal case stamped with logo and serial number, while the logo also appears on its body cap and leather strap.

Happy birthday dear Nikon: The photo stalwart is going big on celebrating its 100th year - offering its customers pin badges, miniature versions of the classics, and souvenir-stamped iterations of its current DSLR flagships

Its Nikkor 70-200E lens also gets a special anniversary edition, arriving supplied with the individual glass elements that make up its internal workings, plus a special display stand and case. Additionally, three lenses that the manufacturer suggests best represent its ‘Nikkor’ brand – in the

wide-angle AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, the standard AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR, and the telephoto AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR – are also being made available in the Nikkor Triple f/2.8 Zoom Lens Set 100th Anniversary Edition. Each lens has the same commemorative serial number. Finally, in terms of working products, there are also commemorative editions of three Nikon binoculars

in the WX 7x50 IF and WX 10x50 IF plus the 8x30 E II. Further anniversary goodies include a crystal reproduction of the Nikon Model 1, its first 35mm camera from 1948, a collection of label pins, including its corporate logo, a half scale miniature model of the iconic Nikon F camera (above) – plus a 100th Anniversary Premium Camera Strap range (far left), made with Italian leather. www.nikon.co.uk

ANSMANN PHOTO OUTLET BEST SELLERS

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WITH A FREE 3 YEAR WARRANTY THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO BUY AN EPSON LARGE FORMAT PRINTER

AY2017 • O tM

Long known for their ability to produce professional prints and proofs of the highest quality, Epson are now offering a FREE 3 year warranty on selected Large Format Printers for a limited time.

Contact Tetenal now to secure your 3 year Free Warranty on all these Epson models SureColor SC-P6000 STD

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NEW!

Epson SC-P5000 wins prestigious Best Printer TIPA Award Designed for proofing, fine art and photography applications, the SC-P5000 can be selected with a violet or LLK inkset, and can achieve nearperfect colour matching of up to 99% of Pantone Solid Coated Colours

EPSON AUTHORISED PARTNER 2017

Fine Art Printers, Giclée Masters in Cardiff, choose the perfect time to upgrade

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My experience of reproduction first began in the early 1980s when I studied at Reading University gaining a degree in commercial and advertising photography. When I first realised that the giclée process and the digital copying age was superior to any of the print reproduction techniques used I started SkyBlue Digital, working primarily with publishers, as well as artists, galleries and art estates. I have worked closely with publishers to reproduce limited editions of works by well known artists such as William Turner, Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas and Gustav Klimt. I have also, through my prints, been one of the first to have giclée prints exhibited at the royal academy exhibitions – back in 2003. In my business, quality is critical which is why I choose to print with Epson. I get superb consistency with excellent results every time. Our print room is always busy so the ease of use is also something which I appreciate greatly. When it came to upgrading our Epson printers, Tetenal were the obvious choice. They gave me all the information I needed and their installation team were exceptional. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.

Contact Tetenal now for further For more Tetenal Ltd | TEL: 0116 289 3644 | www.tetenaluk.com details anddetails our verycontact best pricing

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NEWS

©Frederik Buyckx

HASSELBLAD X1D-50C DOUBLE WINNER FOR DESIGN

NOT CONTENT WITH winning a TIPA award for its design this month – see page 24 – Hasselblad has done the double and bagged a Red Dot Design Award too. For those not in the know, the Red Dot jury assesses thousands of products from all over the world before deciding which have the year’s most extraordinary and innovative designs. The X1D-50c was recognised for its high quality, ground-breaking realisation, based on three principles: an iconic design, outstanding performance and

Scandinavian sensibility. Manufacturers and designers around the globe were invited to enter their products in the 2017 competition. The jury of 40 independent designers, design professors and specialist journalists tested, discussed and assessed each individual product. In total, the competition received more than 5,500 entries from 54 countries for 2017. www.hasselblad.com http://en.red-dot.org

In Memoriam:

Edgar Ansmann 1947 - 2017

BATTERY AND CHARGER specialist Ansmann has sadly announced the death of its founder and Chairman, Edgar Ansmann.

8 May 2017 | BPI News

The 69-year old had recently been working part time and was due to fully retire this summer. Ansmann UK’s MD Paul Channell

SONY WORLD PHOTOGRAPHY AWARD WINNERS IT’S A BUMPER ISSUE this month for both awards and innovation – and both are equally embodied in the winners’ images from this year’s Sony World Photography Awards, held last month. Winning images from the 10th year of the open competition were due to be on show at Somerset House until May 7th, but if you missed it we’ve showcased one of our

told BPI News that his passing was ‘totally unexpected’. He adds: “He was fit and well when I spent time with him in Germany this March and so it has come as a great shock to us all. He suffered a heart attack whilst walking in the forest near to his home in Assamstadt. “His funeral took place on what was, ironically, due to have been one of his proudest days. He was going to receive the German Federal Cross of Merit, which is the equivalent of the British MBE.” Edgar Ansmann’s family were presented with the award instead. The Federal Cross of Merit is bestowed by the public as well as authorities, institutions, economic and sports associations, and is naturally a highly honored special acknowledgement of achievements. Before his passing, the company put out a press release to say he was ‘filled with pride and encouragement’ on being selected. “Edgar founded our company in 1991, working from his garage, and from those humble beginnings developed Ansmann into the international organisation we have today, employing over 400 people worldwide,” adds Paul Channell.

personal favourites here. With the quirky images of Martin Parr, taken over several decades, winning him an Outstanding Contribution to Photography Award, Belgian Frederik Buyckx was named overall Photographer of the Year, collecting a $25,000 prize. www.worldphoto.org www.sony.co.uk

Forward planning: Ansmann already has a new CEO in place with Juergen Dietz

“He was a modest, downto-earth family man, and will be greatly missed by his family, employees and customers alike.” On a more positive note, due to Edgar’s forward planning, Ansmann already has a new CEO in place in Juergen Dietz. He started with the company at the beginning of the year and will now fully take the leading role, supported by Ansmann’s joint Managing Directors Markus Fuerst and Georg Schifferdecker. Last year Ansmann celebrated 25 years of trading. www.ansmann.co.uk

www.bpinews.co.uk

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This has long been the issue with prints from mobile devices. Getting the images from the phone or tablet has, in the past, been a time consuming process. Whether it’s transferring to a computer, then a memory card, or trying to transfer via different wireless methods. Kodak Alaris have recognised the issue and embarked on a crusade to make printing via kiosks simpler and more convenient. The latest version of their software means customers can now transfer 1000 images in

“the value of something only really appears once it’s lost” This is the scenario presented by Kodak Alaris in a video produced on the streets of London to illustrate the value people place on their images. A value which only becomes clear once they have been lost. You can discover the outcome of the stunt by viewing the video at the address at the bottom of this page. But the message is clear. People don’t realise that the best way to preserve their images is to print them. But that’s only half the story.

less than 10 seconds!

The perpetrator of the “crime” offers monetary compensation but no value can be placed on those precious memories which appear to have been lost forever.

“I know I should print more, it’s just so time-consuming”

Together with the addition of new cable connection kits supplied via Tetenal, Kodak’s new software has meant a faster, more enjoyable user experience for customers and brought added benefits to store owners. “On the day we upgraded a customer printed off a range of photos from his tablet and mobile. He was so impressed with the upload speed he placed a £72 instant print order!” Rob Thomson, Photo Factory, Shirley. “Love the cable solution. My customers are very happy and processing orders with ease and little help” Jemma Lewis, Wessex Photographic

That means more images for the customer to choose from to print, plus a faster transaction period leaving you not only with a happy customer but also your kiosks are ready for the next person to use.

Prints via tethered connection have grown from 1% to nearly 19% from 2015 to 2016 Overall prints from mobile have increased by 15% YoY

SK T R

The reaction of the phone owner is emotional, overwhelming and above all, extremely encouraging for photo retailers.

1000 images in approx 10 seconds!

Under the pretence of testing a new wireless charger, the unsuspecting member of the public hands over their mobile phone. Within seconds a message appears saying that the phone is being wiped.

The first thing the phone owners are worried about is the loss of the images on their phone.

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Creating the desire to print is not enough. It has to be fun, easy and convenient.

watch the Kodak video at www.tetenaluk.com/phonewipe

For more details on upgrade options contact us | TEL: 0116 289 3644 | www.tetenaluk.com

BPI NEWS AWARDS NEW INSIDE: HAND S ON WITH NIKON

OM-D E-M1 NIKON 1 AW1 + OLYMPUS

Photographic British

Future best sellers from top tech show IFA

E D OV E R 2 5

N D U S T RY I N

WINNER

No need to check it twice as we spotlight bags, lenses, straps, T FOCUS filters BPI NEWS PRODUC & more to order now for Christmas!

PROMOTION OF THE YEAR ds Cullmann Bags and Tripo

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May 2016

Photographic aware, trade will be As those in the has plenty of Intro2020 already it comes to experience when supplying camera marketing and from latest line up in bags – and the slot seamlessly Cullmann should current offerings. among your

to place without having to the camera whilst a on the floor, the backpack inside partition flexible yet robust lining can be with a soft inside the backpack to convert removed to A rain/sun cover a leisure backpack. and against wet offers protection flap is a convenient heat, plus there jacket transport your provided for Inner dimensions or bicycle helmet. . are 160x140x290mm

Industry

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MAY 2016 • £3

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Your inside track on the UK photo trade for more than 30 years

ing ago, is re-introduc some 30+ years seen in for the past with the brand hasn’t been which worked – a location it to bag themselves the UK market news for retailers looking Distributor Intro2020, and tripods to why this is great Cullmann bags t… News finds out two years. BPI margins and resulting profi some excellent

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Discover why Rotolight’s new Anova Pro lighting solution is the toast of Hollywood & photographers too

Motivational May: Expert tips & tricks for the photo trade to inspire your staff and boost your business!

MUSTARD N CUTS THE CULLMANERA BAGS & TRIPODS FOR CAM

LENS TEST

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BPI News gets to road test two brand new lenses from Sigma in the 30mm f/1.4 & 50-100mm f/1.8

DSLR now via Intro2020, for CSC &available for tablet or bag from Cullmann, and has space 425+ camera videographers The Sydney Maxima photographers and ambitious and lenses is pitched at camera body notebook alongside

Photo Trade Award Winners

to large own medium punters who the direction of into a slew of gears, in the Gladstone We then move Madrid DSLR Maxima 520 ed bags. The Amsterdam is the destination-them is a a special feature 125+ (Above) (Right) bag – along Sports Maxima orange which opens of grey with unique opening, the top of the attractive mix of for storing CSC the entire length to all detailing. Suitable and two lenses), rapid access there and enables expect, again equipment (camera a sporty leisure bag The bag is well As one would so equipment. used for choice here, and their it can also be inside with numerous is comprehensive back of the bag padded on the out some highlights. anti bag. The padded plus two lockable we’ve picked padding with compartments medium DSLRs flaps the wide shoulder to comfortable with additional Accommodating front pockets 18-55mm zoom memory slip strip contribute also includes a for access to with a standard Pro interior on both sides is the Ultralight of the carrying. The up to 10 lens attached in black. The outer material for a tablet of (Above) bag are cards. compartment Maxima 120 bag is hardwearing a high Interior dimensions Amsterdam and to order lightweight, inches in size. The interior Despite being For further details and water repellent. is claimed, thanks . to 230x90x150mm. of the new Cullmann level of protection RipStop nylon south we come stock of all19:25 covered 23/09/2013 measures 360x200x170mm on this Moving further and accessories spotlight Maxima to Pro to to use of tear-proof bag oor tripods, bags nal fl Sydney regular Our fi 600+ a waterproof the Cullmann speak to your Lima Backpack material with here, please in This should be spread is the your customers’ NOW or get 425 (Top Right). at ‘outdoor loving’ the bag to keep is Intro2020 contact bag for ‘ambitious (Below) aimed be when the bag pitched as the on 01628 674411. This is said to camera kit dry is a net touch direct and videographers’, please photographers. ground. There amount of for more info photographers with a large placed on wet size DSLRs and Alternatively, cope smartphone, to a medium up for able side browser at: suitable for plus a laptop size. The pocket on the point your web 13-inches in camera equipment a ventilation lid pocket contains a tablet up to and whilst the inner is made of rubberised, to 15.6-inches, whilst compartments o.uk/pages/ is base of the bag what Cullmann several stowage to be www.intro2020.c material, which system ensures skid-resistant padding is said airy feeling’ and easily the shoulder are as a ‘pleasant cullman.html to be durable describes dimensions said is Velcro Inner the bag Convenient ‘skid proof’. cleaned. Inside on the back. . the camera you to open 200x160x120mm a detachable fasteners allow securely A further carry insert and convenient camera compartment to remove in the enough option comes organiser at and just wide the of Inner shape the front. A notebook camera quickly. . is suited the Cullmann Ultralight are 290x150x390mm compartment dimensions Pack up to Sport 300 Day to tablet PCs size, (Right), available 13-inches in or in black/blue and once again grey/orange. we get a rain/ The camera sun cover. Inner are compartment dimensions . is opened 350x230x110mm from the back, Alternatively to protecting you might want lowdown equipment from cations and point your photographer opening the full specifi theft. A side 2016 21 | 20.co.uk for access BPI News May provides direct visit www.intro20

Discover who won what in: ES + MORE! + FEATUR • The TIPA Awards + COMMENT + NEWS • The BPI News Awards OPEN NOW FOR ANALYSIS See inside for full details! I xxx

height of 19cm, 168cm, a minimum a maximum extensive legs and therefore an four section of all Intro2020 is A special feature accessories bearing load of 4kg. renewed its range of photo ntro2020 has models is what’s bags Cullmann branding. new Nanomax with Cullmann aluminium the rejuvenated partnership a triangular rst described as centre – a brand it fi and tripods tripod legs and dealers to the profile for the than three decades the Supporting according to distributed more anticolumn, which, was Introphoto. (Nano)max makes for reliable ago when it nished manufacturer, must have fi 1 “We BPInewsOct13.indd as it wasn’t looking to introduce twist protection. before 1986 Those dealers stocking and their stock distributing I joined,” Also well worth of tripods to looking line up when a new range to professionals the fourth in our product ideally suited slick to investigate Manager Jane support is the the will want ‘Nanomax’ Intro’s Marketing for a ‘workhorse’ of Cullmann’s “Not sure where oking ‘Titan’ Nicholson recalls. us, but I know that iteration 460M. This model and contemporary-lo the in after to tripod silver, featuring brand went pan-head, distribution model in gunmetal and solid had limited includes a two-way center the product watertight legs that platform and heavy-duty We didn’t feel trapezoidal quick-release for many years. of anodized can be removed body made so have brought the tripod column which it was acceptable, photographer aluminium. Unsurprisingly friend to re-introduce a heavy body – allowing the a as support back an old to 460M is designed and a fresh generation to use the Nanomax at up – with maximum to the trade Fashioned from and lens set New in stock 21kg. monopod instead. in a whopping of photographers.” tripod comes sustainable load aluminium, the height of a maximum black, offers

up available product line tripod, Cullmann’s comprehensive Nanomax 460M aimed includes the ‘Titan’, via Intro2020 and the contemporary above and left, top right at pros, shown

Call Intro2020 20 May 2016

now on 01628

| BPI News

674411 to place

your order

for Cullmann

an of note include Other features helping centre column, air-cushioned for a solid platform to guarantee used for – whether it’s jitter-free shots height work. Maximum stills or video is minimum height is 162cm and precision is this tripod with 74cm. Not only it also comes made in Germany, for 20 year warranty an impressive peace of mind.

camera bags

and tripods,

020.co.uk or

email sales@intro2

simply

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With the April 20th deadline having passed, the email votes, Tweets and re-Tweets have now been counted (and re-counted), with our democratic criteria decreeing that the product and/or promotional campaign with the most mentions

No need to check it twice as we spotlight bags, lenses, straps, BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS filters & more to order now for Christmas!

British All you need is… DP SL Ind620’s ustry all-in-one track on the news UK photo trade printing for more than system 30 years NEW

8 P1

Photo-Me ‘Life’ kiosk launches at The Photograph y Show & we get exclusive demo!an

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BPI News Trade 2016 finalists Awards profiled in pictures. Who do you want to win? Cast your vote now!

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range of distributed products and photo accessories. BPI News got to talk to Fotospeed’s resident Kaiser expert Julia Walker and take a look at the brand new competitively priced Kaiser ‘Action Strap’ aimed at DSLR, bridge and mirror-less camera owners. This boasts an ergonomic fit, and runs diagonally across the chest and back. A wide padded shoulder rest features a non-slip layer and quick release lock with 120° swivel joint. There is also an additional tether strap to keep the main strap in position during fast moves, and a coupling piece to attach to the tripod thread of the camera itself. Another exciting Kaiser product was the ‘Dome’ studio light tent measuring 62x62cm – typically a best seller (£40 SRP) at the Photography Show for the Fotospeed team, and the recipient of five star reviews in the past. The selling point is that this is ideal for any photographers who do their own product photography.

TRADE CONTACTS: For Kaiser enquiries and orders, get in touch with Julia Walker in the Fotospeed office via Julia@fotospeed.com or 01249 714 555 – whilst out in the field is sales rep Peter Bowerman, reachable via 07802 903079 or peter@fotospeed.com.

DNP’S ‘BEST ALL-INONE PHOTO KIOSK’

If you want to add photo finishing to your retail business’ offerings, look no further than the SnapLab + DP-SL620 combo from DNP

INVESTING in any lab service customers a square format to for your photo business is a big print Instagram snaps. Formatting decision. However DNP has made photos is easy too, thanks to an that decision easier with the on-screen step-by-step guide, launch of a combined printer, whilst the device has the ability software and order terminal. The to utilise both wired and wireless SnapLab + DP-SL620 marries its connections. 6-inch DS620 printer to a 10.1-inch DNP believes that as the growth order terminal, the DS-T mini, to of printing from mobile phones provide the complete package (see becomes more widespread, the also advert opposite). The idea is demand for instant prints from that, for a small initial investment, photo kiosks, such as this set up, you can start your photo business is also growing. Additonally, there right away. are other opportunities presented Advantages of the DP-SL620 by such instant print services – include its tiny footprint of 0.11 including ID photos and event square metres, plus the fact that photography. Plus, if you did want the DS620 printer is equipped the option of generating more with a rewind feature to optimise sales, there is the ability to add media consumption. Part of this DNP’s DS80 or DS80DX printer. optimisation is the ability to print By bolting these on you gain multiple print sizes from a single access to value added products set of media. including prints up to 8x12-inches, Indeed the DP-SL620 can double side prints, photo books, produce prints in nine different calendars and greetings cards. sizes up to 6x9-inches (15x23cm) sales@dnpphoto.eu – with the ability to offer your www.dnpphoto.eu

+ NEWS + FEATURES

INTRO2020 PROMOTION

to the camera without having to place the backpack on the floor, whilst a flexible yet robust inside partition with a soft inside lining can be removed to convert the backpack to a leisure backpack. A rain/sun cover offers protection against wet and heat, plus there is a convenient flap provided for transport your jacket or bicycle helmet. Inner dimensions are 160x140x290mm.

From Amsterdam to Sydney, it’s in the bag As those in the trade will be aware, Intro2020 already has plenty of experience when it comes to marketing and supplying camera bags – and the latest line up from Cullmann should slot seamlessly in among your current offerings.

CULLMANN CUTS THE MUSTARD FOR CAMERA BAGS & TRIPODS

is re-introducing Distributor Intro2020, which worked with the brand some 30+ years ago, in for the past Cullmann bags and tripods to the UK market – a location it hasn’t been seen bag themselves two years. BPI News finds out why this is great news for retailers looking to some excellent margins and resulting profit…

ntro2020 has renewed its partnership with Cullmann bags and tripods – a brand it first distributed more than three decades ago when it was Introphoto. “We must have finished distributing before 1986 as it wasn’t in our product line up when I joined,” Intro’s Marketing Manager Jane Nicholson recalls. “Not sure where the brand went to after us, but I know that the product had limited distribution for many years. We didn’t feel that was acceptable, so have brought back an old friend to re-introduce it to the trade and a fresh generation of photographers.” New in stock at

Intro2020 is therefore an extensive range of photo accessories bearing the rejuvenated Cullmann branding.

Supporting dealers to the (Nano)max Those dealers looking to introduce a new range of tripods to their stock will want to investigate the fourth iteration of Cullmann’s ‘Nanomax’ tripod in the 460M. This model includes a two-way pan-head, quick-release platform and center column which can be removed – allowing the photographer to use the Nanomax 460M as a monopod instead. Fashioned from aluminium, the tripod comes in black, offers a maximum height of

Intro2020, The Sydney Maxima 425+ camera bag from Cullmann, available now via for tablet or is pitched at ambitious photographers and videographers and has space notebook alongside camera body and lenses

xxx

As one would expect, again there is comprehensive choice here, so we’ve picked out some highlights. Accommodating medium DSLRs with a standard 18-55mm zoom lens attached is the Ultralight Pro Maxima 120 (Above) bag in black. Despite being lightweight, a high level of protection is claimed, thanks to use of tear-proof RipStop nylon material with a waterproof floor to the bag to keep your customers’ camera kit dry when the bag is placed on wet ground. There is a net pocket on the side for a smartphone, whilst the inner lid pocket contains several stowage compartments and the shoulder padding is said to be ‘skid proof’. Inner dimensions are

168cm, a minimum height of 19cm, four section legs and a maximum load of 4kg. A special feature of all new Nanomax models is what’s described as a triangular aluminium profile for the tripod legs and centre column, which, according to the manufacturer, makes for reliable antitwist protection. Also well worth stocking and ideally suited to professionals looking for a ‘workhorse’ support is the slick and contemporary-looking ‘Titan’ model in gunmetal silver, featuring heavy-duty watertight legs and solid body made of anodized trapezoidal aluminium. Unsurprisingly the tripod is designed to support a heavy body and lens set up – with maximum sustainable load a whopping 21kg.

Cullmann’s comprehensive product line up available via Intro2020 includes the Nanomax 460M tripod, above and left, and the contemporary ‘Titan’, aimed at pros, shown top right

Call Intro2020 now on 01628 674411 to place your order for Cullmann

200x160x120mm. A further carry option comes in the shape of the Cullmann Ultralight Sport 300 Day Pack (Right), available in black/blue or grey/orange. The camera compartment is opened from the back, protecting equipment from theft. A side opening provides direct access

Other features of note include an air-cushioned centre column, helping to guarantee a solid platform for jitter-free shots – whether it’s used for stills or video work. Maximum height is 162cm and minimum height is 74cm. Not only is this tripod precision made in Germany, it also comes with an impressive 20 year warranty for peace of mind.

punters who own medium to large DSLR gears, in the direction of the Amsterdam Maxima 520 Gladstone (Right) bag – a special feature is the unique opening, which opens along the entire length of the top of the bag and enables rapid access to all their equipment. The bag is well padded on the inside with numerous compartments plus two lockable front pockets with additional flaps on both sides for access to memory cards. The outer material of the Amsterdam bag is hardwearing 230x90x150mm. and water repellent. The interior Moving further south we come to measures 360x200x170mm. the Cullmann Sydney Pro Maxima Our final bag to spotlight on this 425 (Top Right). This should be spread is the Lima Backpack 600+ pitched as the bag for ‘ambitious (Below) aimed at ‘outdoor loving’ photographers and videographers’, photographers. This is said to be suitable for medium size DSLRs and able to cope with a large amount of a tablet up to 13-inches in size. The up base of the bag is made of rubberised, camera equipment plus a laptop to 15.6-inches, whilst a ventilation skid-resistant material, which is system ensures what Cullmann said to be durable and easily as a ‘pleasant airy feeling’ describes is bag the Inside cleaned. on the back. Convenient Velcro a detachable camera fasteners allow you to open the insert and convenient camera compartment securely organiser at the and just wide enough to remove front. A notebook compartment is suited the camera quickly. Inner dimensions are 290x150x390mm. to tablet PCs up to 13-inches in size, and once again we get a rain/ sun cover. Inner dimensions are 350x230x110mm. Alternatively you might want to point your photographer

We then move into a slew of destination-themed bags. The Madrid Sports Maxima 125+ (Above) is a attractive mix of grey with orange detailing. Suitable for storing CSC equipment (camera and two lenses), it can also be used for a sporty leisure bag. The padded back of the bag and the wide shoulder padding with anti slip strip contribute to comfortable carrying. The interior also includes a compartment for a tablet of up to 10 inches in size. Interior dimensions are

email sales@intro2020.co.uk or simply visit www.intro2020.co.uk

camera bags and tripods,

For further details and to order stock of all of the new Cullmann tripods, bags and accessories covered here, please speak to your regular Intro2020 contact NOW or get in touch direct on 01628 674411. Alternatively, for more info please point your web browser at: www.intro2020.co.uk/pages/ cullman.html

for the full specifications and lowdown BPI News | May 2016 21

20 May 2016 | BPI News

Why they won: Volume of votes aside tipping the balance in their favour, as a familiar name to anyone in the UK photo trade, distributor Intro2020 ran a promotional piece on its latest Cullmann bags and tripods back in our May edition last year.

Jim Mackay, Managing Director of Intro2020, says: “We are so pleased to hear that we have won the BPI Promotion of the Year for our range of Cullmann bags and tripods. “We launched the Cullmann range of products just over a year ago and sales are going from strength to strength. Our dealers love the quality of the products, together with their realistic price points and excellent margin opportunities. “We would like to thank everyone who voted for us. This award really does mean a great deal to us.” BPI News Editor Gavin Stoker says: Maybe it was our ‘Cullmann cuts the mustard’ headline that won it? Joking aside, as a long-serving

As easy as 1-2-3

f The right combination of DS620 Printer, DS-TMini Order Terminal and an integrated editing Software within a single Dye-sublimation compact kiosk system.

A great potential

f A tiny footprint, for multiple value added products in a variety of formats and finishings with high quality prints.

NEWS

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

HUNDREDS SIGN UP TO SIGNATURE & KAISER AT TPS

All you need is… DP SL 620’s all-in-one printing system

Fotospeed’s big name photographer ambassadors & BPI News Trade Awards nomination drew big crowds to the distributor’s stand… here’s what you might have missed

NEW

otospeed had another very successful year at The Photography Show meeting old and new faces,” enthuses Fotospeed’s Toby Herlinger. “We were thrilled with the attendance to all of the Fotospeed talks – which was a new addition to the stand for this year – and look forward to what the rest of 2016 brings us.” A product particularly focused on at TPS was the Fotospeed Signature range of fine art papers, promoted in the trade by big name photographer brand ambassadors including Joe Cornish, Charlie Waite and Trevor and Faye Yerbury – seen in, on, or around the stand – as was fellow photographer Dave Kai-Piper, who has recently been accompanying Joe Cornish on a number of fine art printing challenges in the great outdoors, known as ‘epic printing’ (see also BPI News March). Paper aside, another big push for Fotospeed Distribution at the show was obviously its Kaiser branded

“

Andrew and Julia of Fotospeed UK with Kaiser strap and tent

DNP’S ‘BEST ALL-INONE PHOTO KIOSK’ If you want to add photo finishing to your retail business’ offerings, look no further than the SnapLab + DP-SL620 combo from DNP INVESTING in any lab service for your photo business is a big decision. However DNP has made that decision easier with the launch of a combined printer, software and order terminal. The SnapLab + DP-SL620 marries its 6-inch DS620 printer to a 10.1-inch order terminal, the DS-T mini, to provide the complete package (see also advert opposite). The idea is that, for a small initial investment, you can start your photo business right away. Advantages of the DP-SL620 include its tiny footprint of 0.11 square metres, plus the fact that the DS620 printer is equipped with a rewind feature to optimise media consumption. Part of this optimisation is the ability to print multiple print sizes from a single set of media. Indeed the DP-SL620 can produce prints in nine different sizes up to 6x9-inches (15x23cm) – with the ability to offer your

customers a square format to print Instagram snaps. Formatting photos is easy too, thanks to an on-screen step-by-step guide, whilst the device has the ability to utilise both wired and wireless connections. DNP believes that as the growth of printing from mobile phones becomes more widespread, the demand for instant prints from photo kiosks, such as this set up, is also growing. Additonally, there are other opportunities presented by such instant print services – including ID photos and event photography. Plus, if you did want the option of generating more sales, there is the ability to add DNP’s DS80 or DS80DX printer. By bolting these on you gain access to value added products including prints up to 8x12-inches, double side prints, photo books, calendars and greetings cards. sales@dnpphoto.eu www.dnpphoto.eu

Design bb&b - Photos: iStock, DNP

Ben and Toby of Fotospeed flank brand ambassador and landscape photographer Joe Cornish

As easy as 1-2-3

A great potential

Let’s “party print”

The winning formula

f The right combination of DS620 Printer, DS-TMini Order Terminal and an integrated editing Software within a single Dye-sublimation compact kiosk system.

f A tiny footprint, for multiple value added products in a variety of formats and finishings with high quality prints.

f As an option, the ideal solution for events without dedicated laptop.

f A little initial investment for any retail environment. f Small shops, photo retailers, event photographers, you can start your photo business right away!

DNP PHOTO IMAGING EUROPE sales@dnpphoto.eu www.dnpphoto.eu

30 April 2016 | BPI News DNP_ad_240x333mm_DP-SL620_EN_0-1.indd 1

10/02/2016 12:56

one photo kiosk’ and plenty of you guys seemed to agree, pushing DNP over the finish line to grab our fiercely contested Product of the Year rosette in the face of some stiff competition from perhaps more widely reported product. Roch Hollande, President of DNP Photo Imaging Europe, says: “We are very pleased that the DNP Snaplab SL620 all-in-one photo kiosk has been awarded Product of the Year by BPI News readers. The Snaplab SL620 continues to be a counter top kiosk for photo shops and retailers. This distinguished award means a lot to all involved in the development and launch of the Snaplab SL620, as it acknowledges a global leader in the innovative printer kiosk concept.

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DNP_ad_240x333mm_DP-SL620_EN_0-1.indd

The winning formula

f A little initial investment for any retail environment. f Small shops, photo retailers, event photographers, you can start your photo business right away!

AC, ROTO LIGHT, SIGMA , KENRO, DNP & MORE! DNP PHOTO IMAGING EUROPE

30 April 2016 | BPI News

sales@dnpphoto.eu www.dnpphoto.eu

of a bag, or vice versa, whilst staying within the Cullmann range. On top of this, Intro2020 obviously has plenty of experience and expertise when it comes to offering the right products to the trade at the right price – indeed it first distributed Cullmann products three decades ago before bringing them back last year – thereby enabling a competitive margin to be made. www.intro2020.co.uk

voting for it, far and wide. Not only is this a small and efficient solution from DNP, in offering both wired and wireless connectivity it’s a flexible one too, allowing for printing from mobile phones as well as providing ID photos – the cornerstone of many small photo businesses. As the trade will be aware, though Japanese print specialist DNP is based out of Paris to serve the European market, Tetenal is a key representative closer to home in the UK. www.dnpphoto.eu

Agree or disagree with how your peers voted in our 2017 awards? As ever, direct your opinions to info@bpinews.co.uk 10 May 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinew s.co.uk

f As an option, the ideal solution for events without dedicated laptop.

“We are very pleased that the DNP Snaplab SL620 all-in-one photo kiosk has been awarded Product of the Year by BPI News readers” – Roch Hollande, President of DNP This is a great encouragement and inspiration for us to go further. We will keep applying our expertise and experiences, to provide the market and our customers with products that are reliable, functional, high-performing, easy-to-use and inspiring.” BPI News Editor Gavin Stoker says: Whilst its campaign began with our April issue last year, DNP has been consistent in its promotion of this device throughout the past 12 months, which must be why the DPSL620 lodged in the brains of those

April 2016

SCRUM IN BRUM!

Product of the Year winner: DNP SnapLab & DP-SL620 all-in-one photo kiosk Why they won: A slick, efficient and value-for-money proposition for those looking to add a print solution to their shop, that can be used in situ but is also, thanks to its tiny footprint, sufficiently portable to be used for pop-up events and providing print output on location (without the need for a dedicated laptop). We called it DNP’s ‘Best all in

U S T RY I N S

BPI News brave s the crow to get to ds Photograph the heart of The y Show & bring our special report issue you

“We would like to thank everyone who voted for us. This award really does mean a great deal to us.” – Jim Mackay, Managing Director of Intro2020 distributor to the trade it is clear that Intro2020 is held in high regard, and dare one suggest even affection, by its peers in the photo industry. Going through the votes it was clear that, on this occasion, they had it ‘in the bag’ as regards its Cullmann line up, which, in offering bags and tripods alongside each other, provides ample solutions for photographers on the go – and ample opportunity for dealers to piggyback the sale of a tripod to that

IND

23/09/2013 19:25

Promotion of the Year winner: Intro2020 BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

Photograp hic

wins. It’s as simple as that. As you’ll recall, as in previous years, we set out with the intention of having one Promotion of the Year and one Product of the Year. So our winners for this year are fortunate in joining a rather exclusive club. Andrew and Julia of Fotospeed UK with Kaiser strap and tent

ED OVER

Your inside

NEW

www.fotospeed.com www.kaiser-fototechnik.de

in spreading the word – a perfect opportunity for PRs and marketing teams to leap into action. We also dished out commemorative framed certificates to those finalists we hooked up with at The Photography Show this year.

Ben and Toby of Fotospeed flank brand ambassador and landscape photographer Joe Cornish

t’s the will of the people…” go the rallying cries. Since our February edition of BPI News we’ve been highlighting the finalists in our BPI News trade awards for 2017, inviting those nominated as potential winners overall to get involved

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WINNER

“

PRODUCT OF THE YEAR DNP SnapLab And DP-SL620 All-In-On e Photo Kiosk

For the past couple of months we’ve been asking you, the photo trade, to vote for your Promotion of the Year and Product of the Year – via social media and regular email. Well, time’s up! We can exclusively reveal this year’s two victors for 2017... F

OCTOBER 2013 •

WE’RE MAKING OUR LIST…

Fotospeed’s big name photographer ambassadors & BPI News Trade Awards nomination drew big crowds to the distributor’s stand… here’s what you might have missed

“

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Design bb&b - Photos: iStock, DNP

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10/02/2016 12:56

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BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS Fujifilm’s new wide angle GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR lens is capable of delivering stunning vistas and pin sharp detail, as these shots by photographer Ben Benvie demonstrate

FUJIFILM EXPANDS THE GFX SYSTEM

The camera brand’s announcement of its GFX system was arguably the highlight of Photokina 2016. With the first camera in the 50S officially launched early 2017 and now available to stock, Fujifilm is already expanding its offerings – and appeal – as BPI News discovers…

oming this June are two new lenses for Fujifilm’s exciting GFX medium format mirrorless system, plus further accessories to expand its offerings and photographers’ creative possibilities. The new lenses, designed to deliver the best from the camera’s ultra high 50MP resolution, are the Fujinon GF 110mm f/2 R LM WR and the GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR. The Fujinon GF 110mm f/2 R LM WR is a medium telephoto lens pitched at portrait photographers, providing the equivalent of an 87mm optic in 35mm film terms. In offering a bright / fast f/2 aperture, there is the possibility of the photographer achieving beautiful shallow depth of field effects (or ‘bokeh’), which Fujifilm claims will deliver a ‘realistic three dimensional feel’ that’s unique to medium format lenses. Chromatic aberrations are limited by the utilisation of four ED lens elements in its construction, which comprises 14 elements in 9 groups. Nine rounded aperture blades create a beautiful bokeh effect at both the front and back. Aiding operation, the aperture ring has a ‘C’ position (command dial mode), which allows the lens aperture value to be changed

via the command dial on the camera body in line with the photographer’s preference. A locking mechanism has been added to the A (auto) and C positions to prevent unintended movement of the aperture dial. The Fujinon GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR meanwhile boasts a focal length equivalent to 18mm in the 35mm format, making it perfectly suited to landscape and architectural photography, according to its manufacturer. Despite the ultra wide angle performance, its maker claims distortion is kept to a minimum, with detail resolved right into the edges of the frame to produce an ‘outstandingly sharp’ image. Ghosting and lens flare occasionally associated with wide angle lenses is suppressed due to the effective use of ‘Nano GI’ coating, according to Fujifilm, which targets light entering the lens from diagonal angles. Low distortion and high resolving power is delivered via a lens construction comprised of 12 groups and 15 elements – featuring two aspherical lenses, one super ED lens and three ED lenses. Again its aperture ring has a ‘C’ position and there is the option of a locking mechanism.

Accessories for this lens include a protective filter in the PRF-82 and a front lens cap (FLCP-82). In operation, both lenses can deliver a swift and silent auto focus performance due to their on-board linear motor, whist the pair also benefit from being dust and weather resistant (hence the ‘WR’ suffix to the model names) and are capable of being used in temperatures as low as -10°C. In short Fujifilm makes the point that these are professional grade tools for the working photographer. Suggested pricing is £2399 for the GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR and £2599 for the GF 110mm f/2 R LM WR.

Ready to accessorize Also on the way for GFX system photographers is a new eyecup

for the GFX 50S in the EC-GFX (below), for which the pitch to your customers is that it effectively shields light – making it easier and more comfortable for the photographer to see the viewfinder – whilst the soft material used for its construction aids comfort for use with the naked eye, or when wearing glasses. Arriving this June is the View Camera Adapter G, which can be used with the GFX 50S when utilising older Fujinon large format camera lenses, such as the CM Fujinon. The adapter is mounted in the film camera loading position of the view camera, which adopts the film format of the 4x5 size. Pricing for these GFX accessories was still to be set as we went to press, as was the release date for the eyecup.

New accessories for the GFX system arrive soon in the View Camera Adapter G and EC-GFX eyecup - both shown here

To order in stock of Fujifilm’s latest GFX lenses and Instax SQ10 camera, speak to your local Fujifilm sales rep. 12 May 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

FUJIFILM LENS LAUNCH PROMOTION

Innovation continues… with new Fujifilm SQ10

The new GF 110mm f/2 R LM WR portrait lens proves a very able partner for the GFX 50S in this image captured by Fernando Moleres

Plus… GFX lens road map updated Fujifilm has revealed that its directly compatible lens line up for the GFX 50S will soon include eight lenses in total, with the revelation that it is developing a new telephoto prime lens and a tele converter, due to arrive in 2018. This is all part of the plan to accommodate the varying needs of photographers. Last year the company officially announced six lenses were on the way for its GFX system, three of which have already been released

in the GF 63mm f/2.8 R WR (50mm equivalent), GF 32-64mm f/4 R LM WR (21-51mm) and GF 120mm f/4 R LM OIS WR Macro (95mm equiv.). With the Fujinon GF 110mm f/2 R LM WR and the GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR just launched, that leaves the GF 45mm f/2.8 R WR (36mm equiv.) to come, along with the telephoto prime lens and a tele converter mentioned above to bring the total to the aforementioned eight. As usual, watch this space and BPI News will bring you all the details in due course! www.fujifilm.co.uk

Away from the high-end photo market, the latest Fujifilm Instax camera in its popular range appears to be cleverly targeting Instagramusing ‘millennials’ – thanks to its adoption of square format instant prints. But that’s not all; like said app, this analogue and digital hybrid allows photographers to edit and apply filters to a shot – all before printing. In short the SQ10 is the first Instax equipped with a digital image sensor (a 1/4-inch CMOS chip), which brings other new features including exposure control, auto focus, and ‘human detection’ to the series, along with the ability to achieve photography as close as 10cm. There are also 10 on board filter effects to choose

from – which can be applied at the time of shooting or afterwards. Image editing status is displayed in the LCD monitor and there is both built-in memory (sufficient for storing 50 files) and the option of using a micro SD or micro SDHC card. Camera battery life is sufficient to be able to produce up to 160 prints from a full charge. Available at the end of May, SRP for the camera is £249, whilst a pack of 10 Instax Square film sheets is a suggested £8.99.

Fujifilm has added two new products - a telephoto prime lens and a teleconverter - to its G mount lens roadmap, bringing the total to eight

For more information on all products to share with your customers, please visit www.fujifilm.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | May 2017 13

NEWS

Nikon springs cashback offer

HELPING TO DRIVE CUSTOM to its retailer partners, Nikon UK has launched what it is calling a ‘travel and macro’ cashback offer, which began late April and extends all the way until August 4th. All claims must be received by September 4th, inclusive. Included in the deal are the manufacturer’s D5600 and D3400 digital SLRs with 18-55mm lenses (at a cashback value of £45) and a whole host of standalone lenses, with cashback deals ranging from £25 returned to the customer

(via BACS) up to a whopping £130 for purchasers of the AF-S Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8E FL ED VR or AF-S Nikkor 80–400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. The usual T&C’s apply, including the fact that all products submitted for cashback need to have been bought on one transaction from the same retailer, and cashback cannot be claimed fro the same product more than once. For the full details head to the URL below: www.nikon.co.uk/promotions

DJI & HASSELBLAD’S 100-MEGA COMBO TAKES FLIGHT YOU WANT INNOVATION? Announced at the NAB show in Las Vegas last month, leading drone manufacturer/supplier DJI and high-end camera stalwart Hasselblad have teamed up to introduce what they’re calling the world’s first 100 megapixel integrated aerial photography platform – whereby the DJI M600 Pro drone, Ronin-MX gimbal and the Hasselblad H6D-100c camera

combine. The purpose, says DJI, is to enable the creation of rich imagery for landscape and fine art photography, with users being able to control camera operations when in flight via the DJI ‘Go’ app. The high flying combination will be released in the third quarter of 2017, says DJI, at a price yet to be set at the time of writing. www.dji.com

BLACK & WHITE ISSUE FOR PERMAJET YOUR BLACK AND WHITE printing customers will get a real buzz out of the new product from fine art inkjet paper specialist PermaJet. Following months of research and development, it has unveiled a new fibre-based inkjet paper dedicated to monochrome printing in the FB Mono Gloss Baryta 320. Swelling PermaJet’s existing Fibre Based range, this unique addition is aimed at digital darkroom printers and emulates traditional silver halide papers, right down to the smell, claims its maker. A reassuringly heavyweight 320gsm, properties of the Mono Gloss Baryta paper are said to include a unique glazed gloss finish, providing a smooth surface that works hand in hand with black and white images. PermaJet notes that it has the ability to reproduce rich blacks and smooth gradations throughout wide tonal ranges. It adds that images appear to leap off the paper, thanks to superb clarity and pin-sharp detail. What’s more, with the Mono Gloss Baryta paper having been

14 May 2017 | BPI News

Ready to stock & sell: PermaJet’s new FB Mono Gloss Baryta 320 inkjet is available in 25 sheet packs at A4, A3, A3+ and A2 in size - mono sample print shown on right from an image by pro photographer Damian McGillicuddy

created with the most advanced paper production and coating technology to date, further attributes include excellent ink absorption, sitting flawlessly on the top layer with no traces of bronzing or colour shifts. Meanwhile its alpha cellulose, acid-free base has been

buffered to enhance fade resistance, helping to ensure your customers will have prints they treasure in the years to come. But don’t just take PermaJet’s word for it. Pro photographer and editor of PAGB e-news Rod Wheelans says:

“Mono Gloss Baryta has a pleasing, smooth-looking surface. Upon testing, it gave very clean blacks and sparkling whites, with the image looking better defined on Mono Gloss when compared to other products. I’m looking forward to using this in future for all my black and white prints that require a smooth surface.” All being said, PermaJet notes its monochrome paper also works well for colour images, bringing the excitement and beauty of the darkroom into the digital world. The paper is currently available in 25 sheet A4, A3, A3+ and A2 packs, with 17-inch, 24-inch and 44inch 15-metre roll options. To place an order and/or try out the paper, get in touch with PermaJet on 01789 739 207. As usual, competitive margins are offered to its retailer partners. www.permajet.com

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MINILAB NEWS

PHOTOXPORT’S NEW RECRUIT STRENGTHENS NORITSU’S UK COMMITMENT

Japanese print specialist Noritsu has sent one of its technical experts to work closely with PhotoXport, exclusive UK distributor of Noritsu printers, and forge a stronger connection with its customers in the UK. PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse tells us more about this exciting development…

s UK trade members will be aware, Leicester-based PhotoXport, exclusive distributor for Noritsu in the UK, is currently taking orders for its new entry-level D705 Green series duplex dry lab – as launched at The Photography Show in March, and which was incredibly well received according to PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse. In addition PhotoXport is seeing a resurgence in sales of its wet lab offering in the 3704G – the ‘G’ denoting a new type of laser – for those looking to maintain the silver halide route. “We’ve had a massive run on wet labs, which have out sold

The new Noritsu D705 dry lab key advantages: PhotoXport is reporting a marked increase in orders for Noritsu’s impressive 3704G wet lab, as shown above - whilst its freshly-launched D705 drylab (see panel, right) is also witnessing major interest from the trade

“Noritsu is showing even more commitment than ever to the UK market, which we’re obviously really pleased about. They’re making a big effort in sending someone over from Japan to work with us. It’s really about getting closer to the manufacturer to facilitate the best possible support.” –PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse on new recruit Tomoji Sando dry labs this year,” enthuses Derek. “Part of that’s down to the new papers that are coming out, and for people with real volumes then the wet lab still makes sense. We’ve sold seven times what we’ve sold last year, which is pretty phenomenal. The new generation G laser is becoming a bit of a hit – it lasts longer and makes for greater efficiency.” With such exciting developments occurring, it’s perhaps no surprise that Noritsu is strengthening its commitment to its partnership with

PhotoXport by sending over one of its men from Japan to join the UK firm. “Noritsu is showing even more commitment than ever to the UK market, which we’re obviously really pleased about,” says PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse of new recruit Tomoji Sando. “They’re making a big effort in sending someone over from Japan to work with us, not to mention the cost. His job title in Japan is Technical Support Supervisor. So it can’t be criticised that there is no commitment from Noritsu in the UK.

Satisfied customers: New recruit Tomoji has just helped Opus Digital, Northern Ireland, with a new installation (L to R) Gareth McCourt, Glenn Cairns, Tomoji Sando and Roy Clements. The company says it it is so impressed with his professionalism it is sending a bottle of Black Bush Irish Whiskey as thanks!

“We’re also setting up a training school here that he will be helping us with. In the middle of May we’ll have eight engineers here for two weeks for training. His expertise will be invaluable there. It’s really about getting closer to the manufacturer to facilitate the best possible support. These guys just know their onions. And Sando-san is here for a year, so there is going to be a massive sharing of knowledge.”

The trade is keen on green As we flagged up last issue, the D705 Green series duplex can print either on one or both sides of the media, with print size options ranging from 9x9cm up to 25x61cm. This includes the choice of panoramic format prints at 25x171cm. For those looking to save on space yet splurge on output, the D705 is also a compact allrounder, with a footprint of just 0.35 square metres. The other new option is a simplex

n Compact footprint, freeing up space for other retail needs n High quality prints (6 gradations per dot) with excellent image permanence n No messy chemicals, environmentally friendly, safe and clean n Scalable system configuration to meet individual needs n Substantially lower investment cost than silver halide printers n Produces up to 650 prints per hour using roll paper (or up to 1300 prints per hour if double stacking two units) n Easy operation via intuitive user interface (EZ controller sold separately) machine – in a nutshell a Green II lab on which the duplex facility has been removed. “This means that the flagship product is now available even cheaper,” Derek explains. “If someone has a high output minilab and they want to migrate to a dry lab without any interruption then they should choose the Green II simplex.” Having read the above, you’d probably like to consider an appointment with PhotoXport’s man from Japan and/or place an order to get your own Noritsu dry lab installed. Simply contact Derek Fieldhouse now on 0116 2675907. www.photoxport.com

Call PhotoXport’s Derek and the team 0116 2675907 for more on Noritsu’s leading dry and wet lab solutions @bpi_news

BPI News | May 2017 15

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

PISTON POWER YOUR SALES WITH MANFROTTO’S NITROTECH

Traditional stills photographers have been branching out into shooting video on their DSLRs for a while, whilst the rise of the Internet means there’s a constant need for moving images and content generation. Taking advantage of this growth market is the new Nitrotech Fluid Video Head from Manfrotto, described as a ‘game changer’ by the brand. So, could stocking it boost your own sales?

ooking to attract new customers, or at least customers seeking something new? Then look no further than a revolutionary product that combines the most successful features of its maker’s Video Heads range with a ground-breaking, unique-to-themarket Nitrogen gas-filled piston mechanism to guarantee continuous counterbalance. That’s the pitch for the Nitrotech N8 Video Head from well-respected Italian brand Manfrotto. It’s the first in a promised range of flawlessly constructed professional video heads that it promises will deliver ‘superlative’ videography. In short, the nitrogen piston technology allows for combinations of different cameras and accessories to be utilised – the camera clicks in from above – and for precise results to be achieved. Additional features of the 8Kg capacity, high-tech head to pitch to your customers include the creative fluidity of variable pan and tilt action for smooth, judder-free, but moreover accurate shooting. The new head features a side-lock sliding plate attachment for quick and easy camera attachment; a precise, continuous counterbalance that effortlessly holds and operates a wide array of video camera models in a variety of sizes; for professionals it even features an Easy Link connector with an anti rotation function that enables an external monitor and other accessories to

“The Nitrotech N8 Video Head from Manfrotto also looks beautiful – no wonder it’s already a Red Dot Award winner 2017 for its impactful design.” be fitted. It also looks beautiful – no wonder it’s already a Red Dot Award winner 2017 for its impactful design.

Bubbling under… Lightweight (manufactured from aluminium) and intuitive to operate, well-implemented features include an illuminated leveling bubble (powered by a CR1220 lithium battery) for easy set-up, counterbalance adjustment knob, and variable fluid drag system

The Nitrotech N8 is available in various kit configurations that also include a tripod, if required

for smooth pan and tilt movements. A pan bar is included to enable complete 360° rotation and a replaceable intermediate rosette is included to save wear on the head’s main casting. Working height is 14.8cm. The first model in the Manfrotto Nitrotech range in the Nitrotech N8, at £449.95 SRP, is available in a few different configurations: the MVKN8C which includes the 535 Carbon Fibre tripod, 75mm half ball and padded bag, MVKN8CTALL, which includes the 536 Carbon Fibre Tripod, 75mm half ball and padded bag, MVKN8TWINM and MVKN8TWING which include the 546 aluminium tripod in mid and ground spreader configurations, with 75mm half ball and padded bag. As those in the trade will be aware, Manfrotto has been part of the UK-based Vitec Group since 1989, and has the advantage of possessing its own direct distribution system in this country, Manfrotto Distribution. So, if you’re seeking success by adding innovative new products to stock, then give Manfrotto a call about the Nitrogen N8 solution now on: 01530 566090. www.manfrotto.co.uk

Innovative features of the Nitrotech N8 – at a glance: n Continuous counterbalance (from 0Kg to 8Kg) guaranteed via innovative Nitrogen piston mechanism n Side lock plate for fast and precise set up n Sliding plate with metric ruler n Easy link connector for accessories with anti rotation (for easier gear changes and more solid support of offcamera accessories) n Illuminated leveling bubble for easy set up n 75mm flat base allows a wide variety of applications (for example fitting to sliders, jibs or even cranes) n Variable Fluid Drag system ensures smooth pan and tilt movements n Counterbalance can be adjusted manually via provided knob n Attract new customers to your business with this innovative product!

Give Manfrotto a call about their award winning Nitrotech N8 Video Head now on 01530 566090 and visit www.manfrotto.co.uk 16 May 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

There is more to see inside. A fluid video head with a technologic core featuring a nitrogen piston capable to continuously counterbalance your gear. Discover the new Manfrotto Nitrotech N8.

Manfrotto Fluid Drag System for smooth and free movements.

Versatile flat base suitable for tripods, crane, jibs and sliders.

Continuous Counterbalance System holding a wide array of videocamera models.

manfrotto.co.uk

MINILAB NEWS

FUJIFILM PRESENTS PRINT IDEAS TO INSPIRE

We speak to one of the winners from Fujifilm’s 2017 Business Endeavour Awards – Andover’s Cartridge & Photo Shop – a prominent member of Fujifilm’s Digital Imaging Service network, to discover how this year’s National Conference & Awards have inspired them to make their business even better – and more profitable…

n the back of winning one of four Fujifilm Business Endeavour Awards, given out at the manufacturer’s National Conference back in March (and covered in BPI News last issue), Cartridge and Photo Shop in Andover, run by owners Lesley-Ann and Mark Simmonds has wasted no time in taking inspiration on board and upping the ante further. “We’ve just done a complete revamp,” enthuses Lesley-Ann. “We took our inspiration from Fujifilm’s Wonder Photo stores, which are dotted around the world, and from the Barcelona branch in particular. Like them we wanted to make photographic printing fun. Over the past couple of weeks I’ve been working on ideas for how we can achieve that for people – by giving them more ideas for what they can

do with their photos, rather than just leaving them on their phones.” The $64,000 question for the photo trade is always: ‘how do we encourage people to print more?’ But it sounds like Lesley-Ann’s business is making in-roads. “Yes we are,” she agrees. “We’ve just started to do ‘scrapbooking’ – which is where people can come in, have loads of pictures printed out, which they can then lay in a blank album. We have lots of little graphics they can buy – such as little hearts, Instaxtype surrounds or messages they can add – which is also great fun for kids.”

Innovation inspires creativity…breeds innovation “We’ve set up a creative table at the front of the shop, which is designed to get families involved with using their photos – being creative and making things using photo prints,” adds Lesley-Ann. “Other ideas include hanging their prints on a washing line with little pegs, which then goes into a frame. We can even print a background using their photo, to put into the box frame. Kids can come in and colour images that can then be printed onto a mobile phone case, mugs or chopping boards.

“We took inspiration for our revamp from Fujifilm’s Wonder Photo Store in Barcelona. Like them we wanted to make photographic printing fun.” – Cartridge and Photo Shop, Andover, Fujifilm Business Endeavour Award winner There are lots of creative ideas with regard to what you can do with your photos!” The whole idea behind the revamp was to get away from the idea of going into a photo store and just having your pictures printed at 6x4-inches. “If you look at the way the Wonder Photo store in Barcelona has been set up it’s really interactive and it’s fun to walk in. I do plan to visit in person, but so far have taken inspiration purely from their website, along with speaking to Fujifilm’s Marketing Manager Peter Wigington quite a bit, in order to come up with a similar concept here. It just doesn’t look like a photographic shop now. We’ve got a lovely coffee area and a magic mirror coming that can be used for taking selfie pictures. It’s very upbeat and trendy.” In short, Cartridge and Photo Shop in Andover has been made the archetypal ‘destination store’. Lesley-Ann further describes it as the only ‘assisted’ photo shop in town.

“There isn’t another that will assist you in printing out your photos,” she explains. “To be honest, there are so many people who don’t know how to do it, and who will walk in with their camera or mobile phone

Boost your print sales in 2017! Get in touch with Peter direct on 01234 572138 or via peter.wigington@fujifilm.com 18 May 2017 | BPI News

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FUJIFILM PHOTO PRINT SERVICES PROMOTION

Lesley-Ann Simmonds and husband Mark been so inspired by Fujifilm at home and abroad that they have recently revamped their store to introduce a wealth of fresh and very clever ideas to generate footfall and increase print orders

“From attending the FDIS Conference we realised that we are in a very competitive environment and that online sales are increasing. Therefore, it’s even more important to make sure we are on top of our game as a shop retailer. Like the larger companies, we need to now offer an online shopping experience, as well as a great in-store shopping experience.” wanting to print something but just not knowing how. Fujifilm is still one of the most recognised brands for photography. We’re created a new area just for Instax cameras and all the accessories – and are

encouraging people to use them for making scrapbooks or for framed pictures, collages or montages.” She adds that her business does very well for photo montages reproduced as canvas prints, as well as passport photos and photo restoration. Further innovations added to

the shop’s options include a hire service, whereby the store will loan eight 20-megapixel cameras out for weddings and events, as an alternative to guests shooting on disposable ones – and also to encourage guests to take lots of photos at the event, which can in turn (you guessed it) be made into prints, for themselves and the happy couple. “We are also waiting delivery of a Magic Mirror Photo Booth, for hire at weddings and events,” Cartridge and Photo Shop’s owner adds. “Once again all images will be posted online for guests to order up extra sets, and we’ll also be offering promotions on gift sets, such as photo mugs and photo books. Ultimately we want people to think photo, think Fujifilm.”

Meeting the demands of a competitive environment With the store’s website and social media also currently being overhauled, a loyalty card system

being introduced – and the business generally sounding so ‘on the ball’ – it’s not hard to see why it picked up a 2017 Business Endeavour Award from Fujifilm. “From attending the FDIS Conference we realised that we are in a very competitive environment and that online sales are increasing,” Lesley-Ann concludes. “Therefore, it’s even more important to make sure we are on top of our game as a shop retailer. Like the larger companies, we need to now offer an online shopping experience, as well as a great in-store shopping experience. To me that means that we needed to re-invent our store, to make it a destination that people are delighted to go to/shop in. “I had seen online what Fujifilm have done with their new concept stores in New York and Barcelona and felt that they must have put a lot of thought behind this and if so, market research would probably also show that people need creative ideas when it comes to their images. Hence why we completely revamped our store and are now focusing our marketing spend on providing an online shop that will be full of creative and fun ideas regarding what customers can do with their images. Only today I’ve researched a supplier that will enable us to personalise a frame background – for any occasion – so that’s another innovative idea we’re going to be launching shortly!” To find out more about how Fujifilm could help inspire your own business, call 01234 572138 or email photoprintservices_uk@fujifilm.com

Boost your print sales in 2017! Get in touch with Peter direct on 01234 572138 or via peter.wigington@fujifilm.com @bpi_news

BPI News | May 2017 19

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

ROTOLIGHT LAUNCH AEOS: ULTRA THIN, LOCATION LED LIGHT

Showcased for the first time at last month’s NAB trade show in Las Vegas, UK lighting specialist Rotolight shares its latest innovative ‘AEOS’ location LED light solution with photo retailers and suppliers. With excellent trade margins promised, as ever, BPI News learns why you should be adding it to stock and pitching it to customers

e’ve featured innovative British lighting specialist Rotolight, based at the world famous Pinewood film studios, in the pages of BPI News before – showcasing its award winning LED lighting products the Neo and Anova. Now it has another potential game change on its hands to share with the press and the trade in the ‘AEOS’, a cleverly portable yet powerful LED location light for photographers and videographers on the move.

A movable feast… of light Under wraps until its exciting debut at the Las Vegas-based trade show NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) last month, the ‘AEOS’ is being pitched to photographers as an ‘industry first’. This is a bi-colour LED with a unique ‘ultra thin’ design concept. Weighing 1.5Kg and just 1cm thick, the AEOS is claimed as one of the most portable lights on the market. It’s powerful too, with a light output of 5,750 lux at three feet. Coupled with this, it’s one of the most energy efficient LEDs on the market too; able to run for three hours at 100% power on a single 95W battery – more than twice as long as the industry standard.

“The AEOS allows photographers and videographers to take a powerful LED light to locations and remote environments, enabling users to achieve shots not otherwise possible…” – Rotolight Chairman Rod Gammons “By being so portable and lightweight, the AEOS allows photographers and videographers to take a powerful LED light to locations and remote environments, enabling users to achieve shots not otherwise possible,” enthuses Rotolight’s

Chairman Rod Gammons. “Being both a continuous LED light, as well as a HSS flash with no recycle time, provides a huge amount of versatility for photographers, in a highly compact package.” Another industry first is that

this LED light includes integrated aluminium handles, which gives its users the freedom to work with light at angles and positions not otherwise possible. Flexibility here is key. Breaking from tradition with regard to LED lights in its form factor, the AEOS does not feature a conventional yoke, as this typically limits movement of the light to just 30 to 40 degrees of tilt, reducing control over light spill. Instead Rotolight’s AEOS includes a professional level ball head made from high quality aluminium as standard, thus providing complete

For more on the new AEOS portable location LED, visit www.rotolight.com/aeos 20 May 2017 | BPI News

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ROTOLIGHT PROMOTION “The Rotolight AEOS is the ultimate light for location and portrait photographers who want something powerful, yet portable and easy to carry, with a beautiful soft light output. AEOS will simply enable you to get shots no one else can.” – Pro photographer Jason Lanier 360 degree rotation and 200 degrees of tilt if mounted on a light stand. Obviously this affords creative lighting set-ups not hitherto possible with more conventional light sources. The ball head is also sufficiently solid to support the full weight of the AEOS at any angle, with battery and barn doors mounted. Naturally AEOS also features dual controls for brightness and swift, tune-able colour on location, thanks to accurate colour temperature

AEOS is available as a single light (£749.99 ex VAT), and as a two light Kit (£1583 ex VAT)

display. Its ‘AccuColour’ LED technology does away with the need for timely colour correction of skin tones in post production.

Professional grade tool But don’t just take Rotolight’s word for it. Award winning pro portrait photographer and Sony Artisan of Imagery Jason Lanier has fast become a convert, calling the AEOS “the ultimate light for location and portrait photographers who want something powerful, yet portable and easy to carry, with a beautiful soft light output. AEOS will simply enable you to get shots no one else can.” Rotolight’s Rod Gammons adds: “The one thing that we’ve always understood is that photographers all work with light in so many different ways. However, they’re often hindered by the size, weight or manoeuvrability of the light. We’ve developed the AEOS as a result of clear feedback from our customers that they wanted something

powerful, but highly portable. The ease of use with AEOS allows photographers to be more creative and spend more time composing their perfect shot, rather than spending time on cumbersome lighting setups.” It goes without saying that Rotolight’s latest LED is packed with its industry first patented technologies, including High Speed Synch Flash (HSS), providing a powerful colour temperature adjustable flash at 200% of the maximum continuous light output for traditional photographic workflows – with no recycle time at all. Its maker says that this eliminates the need for users to buy a strobe; in a nutshell this is an all-in-onesolution. We also get True Aperture Dimming, which calculates and displays f-stop settings for a subject at a given distance, eliminating the need for a separate light meter. As mentioned we also have ‘AccuColour’ LED phosphor technology on board, which helps to ensure the AEOS delivers exceptional colour rendering (CRI:96+) and scores in the highest category on the independently tested Television Lighting Consistency Index (TLCI). Dealers and photographers will further want to know that the AEOS comes as standard with a full set of filters. This includes two diffusion

Rotolight AEOS LED’s key advantages at a glance: n All-in-one solution: Both a continuous LED light and HSS flash with no recycle time n Ultra thin design (just 1cm ‘thick’) aids portability n Powerful light output of 5,750 lux at three feet n One of the most energy efficient LEDs on the market n Runs for three hours at 100% power on a single 95W battery (more than twice as long as the industry standard) n Aluminium handles allow the light to be ‘worked’ and positioned at angles not otherwise possible n Includes a professional grade, aluminium ball head as standard, providing the possibility of 360° rotation n ‘AccuColour’ LED technology does away with the need for timely colour correction of skin tones in post production n Weighs 1.5Kg n A full set of filters are included as standard, with optional extras available

filters, a cosmetic peach skin tone diffusion to ‘warm’ the subject, a magenta filter plus an AC/DC power supply and aforementioned ball head. Further optional accessories include a custom made soft bag capable of carrying up to two lights with barn doors, two batteries and two stands, plus V-lock batteries, barn doors, rain covers, soft boxes and a yoke for studio truss mounting. Good competitive margins are available to trade partners. Call Rotolight on 01753 422 750, or Digital Distribution (for independent photo dealers) on 01442 230022 or sales@ddltd.co.uk to get info and pricing. Photo by Jason Lanier, lit with 1x Rotolight AEOS. Taken with: Sony A7Rii, 1/60 sec at f/2.8, 128mm at ISO 800. Sony 70-200 G Master lens

www.rotolight.com

Independent retailers get in touch with Digital Distribution on 01442 230022 or sales@ddltd.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | May 2017 21

BPI NEWS EXTRA

SIGMA’S TIPA TWOSOME BROADEN DEALERS’ SALES FOCUS The third party lens manufacturer has once again been lauded in the annual TIPA Awards, picking up Best DSLR Wide Angle Zoom for its Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art and Best DSLR Prime Lens for the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art. BPI News focuses on the glass behind the glory…

ooking to serve up a pair of aces to your lens-seeking enthusiast photographer customers? Then the TIPA winning 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art and 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art should be top of your pitch list. Sigma is a brand that regularly pops up on the list of recipients when award season rolls around, and this year is no exception. For anyone in the trade not already up to speed, the Technical Image Press Association – TIPA for short – is made up of judges representing 25 specialist tech magazines across Europe. Interestingly, when TIPA surveyed whether print magazines or the Internet were the source their collective readers trusted the most,

Another pair of aces from Sigma: The TIPA judges for 2017 agreed both lenses were well worth looking into..!

“We’ve long known both of these lenses were winners – thanks to feedback we get from the trade and photographers alike – but now the esteemed experts at TIPA have confirmed it.” – Graham Armitage, Sigma UK they weren’t surprised to discover that over 50% said ‘magazines’ – and this was even higher when expensive or professional equipment was considered.

Wide zoom meets Prime mover Earmarked by TIPA as the best wideangle lens for your customers to wed to their DSLR, the Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art was singled out by its expert journalist judges thanks in part to its specification, with ‘the largest aspherical element in the industry’ having particularly enthused them, going by the official awards statement. Those in the trade will already be aware that this lens is suited to full frame DSLRs, but can also be used with an APS-C sensor camera to deliver a still impressive 1836mm focal length (approximately, according to the camera model).

The constant f/4 aperture and ninebladed rounded diaphragm allows for outstanding bokeh effects, whilst its updated Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) allows for a fast AF response. Available for Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts, an ultra wide performance

with zero distortion, ensuring pin sharp picture quality from centre to edges, is the thrust of the pitch here. Minimum focus distance is 24cm and the mount construction is dust and splash proof. In terms of the attributes of the full frame 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art, which has bagged ‘Best DSLR Prime Lens’, this one is described as an ‘ultimate’ option for portrait photographers and those who want to create dramatically shallow depth of field effects, according to TIPA. To minimise chromatic aberration and help deliver a peak performance, it

deploys two FLD (fluorite equivalent) elements and one anomalous dispersion (AD) high-refractive index element, whilst its quality build incorporates a durable brass mount and a ‘TSC’ constructed (Thermally Stable Composite) barrel. Also utilised by its fellow award winner in the 1224mm, this is a material used to enable consistent performance at extreme temperatures that is considerably lighter than other material yielding similar benefits. It goes without saying that both lenses also boast the virtue of having been made in Japan and tested with Sigma’s own rigorous MFT measuring system, which goes by the apposite name of ‘A1’. “We’ve long known both of these lenses were winners – thanks to feedback we get from the trade and photographers alike – but now the esteemed experts at TIPA have confirmed it,” enthuses Sigma UK General Manager Graham Armitage. “Get in touch with your local Sigma rep to order stock now, so as to not be caught short when customers come asking.” www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

New Sigma Cine lenses & 100-400mm pricing/availability In related Sigma news, the manufacturer has confirmed a £799.99 SRP for its 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM ultra telephoto lens, which joins its Contemporary lens class line up, and is available now. Once again supplied in a choice of Sigma, Canon or Nikon mounts, it’s said to match the performance of a much pricier unit, incorporates a push/ pull zoom mechanism

and is compact for its class. Builtin optical stabilisation allows for sharp shots in challenging conditions, while its ability to compress perspective ensures subjects appear to ‘jump out of’ the image. The manufacturer has also announced the development of two new Sigma Cine lenses in the FF High Speed Prime lens line up: the 14mm T2 FF and 135mm T2 FF. With these additions it now has seven lenses covering 14mm

to 135mm and T1.5 to T2. The new models were due to be presented for test shooting at the NAB, Las Vegas, at the end of April. Delivery is expected this June or July, at a price to be set.

All lenses sold via Sigma Imaging UK come with the benefit of a three year limited warranty. 22 May 2017 | BPI News

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PHOTO RETAIL NEWS

A simple offer, explained simply

FOR A BUSINESS BUILT ON QUALITY, THERE WAS ONLY EPSON IN THE FRAME High Quality Printer, Photographer & Picture Framer, Robbies Photographics, worked with Tetenal and Epson to help the next stage of their business development. Left: Colin Bradbury, Operations Director. Right: Ron McRobbie, Managing Director ROBBIES PHOTOGRAPHICS Robbies Photographics was the dream business for Ron McRobbie, who, after a career in the food industry, decided to follow his longterm passion of photography and established his store in 2005. The business, based in Balham, South London, offers a broad variety of photo services, ranging from simple printing services, to passport and ID prints as well as lots of portraiture, product and location photography. In order to continuously fulfill the changing demands of his customers, Managing Director Ron decided the time was right to upgrade his printing equipment and move the business to larger premises:

“I’m constantly looking into developing the business and moving it forward. With the new year, I decided it was time for us to bring our photo printing equipment up to date with the latest technology before moving our business to new premises". NEW PREMISES The business previously occupied two shops next to each other but the opportunity to move into a larger single unit prompted Ron to get in touch with Tetenal to discuss his options for new printing equipment. "It seemed the perfect time to get in touch with Tetenal to discuss the latest Epson professional printing range.”

DEMONSTRATION AT EPSON HQ Tetenal Hardware Manager Chris Castle invited Ron to Epson's HQ in Hemel Hempstead for a full demonstration on the latest Epson equipment to try and create the perfect mix of products to fulfill his requirements for the expansion of the business. "After the demonstration we decided to exchange our Agfa DLab for the Epson D3000 and the existing Canon IPF8100 for an Epson P9000 44" Large Format Printer. For us the outstanding print quality of the Epson range was the convincing factor that led to our decision of upgrading both printers with the Epson counterparts as our business is built on the quality of service we provide. Allied to the ease of use, cost savings, increased range of print sizes we can offer and on-going support with the 3 year warranty, it was really an easy decision in the end.” NEXT STEPS Following the hardware upgrade Ron is now focusing on the move for Robbies Photographics to the new premises within the next two months to complete his business development.

TEL: 0116 289 3644

Managing Director of Robbies Photographics Ron McRobbie explains why he decided to work with Tetenal for the next stage of his business development: “For me it was been a nobrainer to go with Tetenal for our equipment upgrade. They are a long-established business with a very good reputation and excellent customer support. The installation was smooth and seamless. Tetenal provided on-site training in addition to calibration of the printers which gave us a great starting point to confidently move forward with the new equipment.”

Official Distributors Epson Photographic Print Solutions TEL 0116 289 3644 phil.barker@tetenal.uk.com www.tetenaluk.com

Robbies Photographics in Balham, South London

Tetenal Ltd

Tetenal - the perfect Business Partner

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BPI NEWS EXTRA

INNOVATION ACROSS NATIONS: THE TECHNICAL IMAGE PRESS ASSOCIATION AWARD WINNERS 2017

Do you have an award winner on your shelves or amongst your stock? Helping with your sales pitch to customers, editors from the imaging press have once again met to dish out their annual photo hardware recommendations via the medium of the TIPA Awards. BPI News drills into who won what… and how it could help boost your own bottom line

wenty seven editors from the imaging press, spread as wide as Asia, Australia, Europe and North and South America, can’t be wrong, can they, when judging the best cameras, lenses, printers and accessories from the past 12 months? Unsurprisingly, familiar names crop up time and again amongst the victors in each of the mammoth 40 categories for 2017, with, from BPI News’ perspective at least, mainly sensible choices made. Since TIPA also has a cooperative partnership with the Camera Journal Press Club (CJPC) in Japan, the grand awards ceremony was due to take place in Tokyo, Japan, on June 16th. But to save you the price of a plane ticket, we’ve rounded up the key winners below!

Trade celebrated by the trade A big winner last year with its D5 and D500 DSLRs, Nikon once again makes the grade with its D5600 being named Best Entry Level DSLR for 2017. At the other end of the scale the manufacturer also took TIPA’s accolade of Best Professional Lens for its tilt ‘n’ shift Nikon PC Nikkor 19mm f/4 E ED lens. The judges said: “Pros shooting architecture and tight indoor spaces will appreciate its quality and features.” Nikon’s rugged compacts also got a look in, with

“With several highly innovative products of late, Fujifilm had to make a showing – and it proved to be the biggest winner in this year’s awards, taking five in total.” whilst the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM was Best DSLR Standard Zoom Lens. Its third award was for Best Camcorder in the XC15. In terms of accessories, Manfrotto ‘bagged’ – forgive the pun – Best Photo Bag for its Pro Light 3N1-36 and the Italian manufacturer’s Lens Filter Suite took Best Camera Accessory overall, whilst rival Vanguard nabbed Best Tripod for the snappily named Alta Pro 2 with 263AB 100 ballhead. Best Lighting accessory went to the Nissin Air10s, as distributed by Kenro in the UK.

its Coolpix W100 taking the prize of Best Rugged Camera, whilst its KeyMission 360° bagged Best 360° Camera (it was also our Product of the Month for BPI News November 2016 – Ed).

Staying with DSLRs, the Pentax KP was awarded Best Expert APS-C DSLR, the manufacturer’s only award in this year’s line up. Doing slightly better was Canon, who took three gongs. Its EOS 5D Mark IV was named Best Full Frame Expert DSLR,

Not to be outdone, Sigma also made a showing, with two of its third party lenses also getting the nod from the experts. Its 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art bagged Best DSLR Prime Lens and the 1224mm f/4 DG HSM Art took Best DSLR Wide Angle Zoom Lens. See page 24 this issue for more on the manufacturer’s winning products. Staying with third party lenses, the Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 – as distributed by Intro2020 – was chosen as Best DSLR Telephoto Zoom Lens.

Best Inkjet Photo Paper went to the Canson Infinity Baryta Prestige 340gsm, as featured in our Photography Show Review edition (April cover) of BPI News this year. With several highly innovative products of late, Fujifilm had to make a showing – and it proved to be the biggest winner in this year’s awards, taking five

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the industry. Send your news to info@bpinews.co.uk 24 May 2017 | BPI News

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TIPA AWARDS 2017

in total. Unsurprisingly its GFX 50S – which we featured extensively in our February edition of BPI News – stepped up to the plate to take Best Medium Format Camera, whilst its X-T20 takes Best Entry Level Mirrorless CSC. Best Expert Mirror-less CSC was also bagged by Fujifilm’s X-T2. Taking Best Professional Compact Camera was also Fujifilm’s X100F, while its Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 WR was rewarded with the title of Best CSC Prime Lens.

BPI News’ top picks also tempt the TIPA’s Panasonic has made much of its cameras as ‘hybrid’ devices in its marketing, so perhaps it is no surprise either to see its Lumix DC-GH5 – which also takes our Product of the Month on page 30 this issue – named

No slouch when it comes to innovation itself, electrical giant Sony also took its share of the spoils this year, with its A99 II acclaimed as Best Professional as Best Professional Photo/Video Camera. A second award from the manufacturer was snapped up by its (deep breath) Lumix G Vario 1235mm f/2.8 II ASPH/Power OIS lens as Best CSC Standard Zoom Lens. The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80/82 also bagged Best Superzoom Camera.

Staying with mirror-less cameras, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II (which featured as Product of the Month in our BPI News Dec/Jan edition) took Best Professional Mirrorless CSC, and its M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f/1.4 IS Pro was named Best CSC Telephoto Zoom Lens.

took Best Portable Flash. With DJI having cornered the market in unmanned aerial vehicles of late, its high-flying DJI Phantom 4 Pro was Best Camera Drone in the eyes of the TIPA judges.

DSLR and its pocket rocket DSC-RX100 V named as Best Expert Compact Camera. Best Action Camera also went to Sony, for its FDR-X3000R. Best Photo Printer meanwhile went to the Epson SureColor SC-P5000 (see page 26 this issue for more), whilst Best Design went to the covetable Hasselblad X1D-50c. The Profoto D2 likewise had its name in lights – as Best Professional Flash System, whilst the excitingly monikered Metz mecablitz M400

Share your opinion… Some fairly obvious and uncontroversial choices this year, all in all, but nothing we would particularly take issue with. Send us your own thoughts and opinions though via info@bpinews.co.uk – we’d be happy to hear them. For more on the annual trade awards and the organisation behind them, simply visit the below URL. www.tipa.com

To find out more about the voting process behind the TIPA Awards, direct your browser to: www.tipa.com @bpi_news

BPI News | May 2017 25

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

AWARD WINNING SOLUTION FROM THE DPS GROUP Epson’s newest SC-P5000 printer – available via Beckenham-based re-seller The DPS Group – has just won a TIPA Award. All the more reason to add it to your own business, as the re-seller’s MD Maneesh Patel details…

s a leading supplier of Epson product, BPI News readers will be very familiar with Kent based print solutions provider The DPS Group. We’ve not only showcased the media – but also the ‘hero’ Epson hardware product it can provide. New in to furnish its trade partners with is Epson’s SureColor SC-P5000 printer – already winning acclaim throughout the industry – and most notably a recipient of a Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) Award last month (see also news page 24). Epson’s new printer is a veritable beast of a machine that as our product images on this page reveal, is also a beauty with it. There is flexibility built in too; it is more than capable of handling anything a photo business may demand of it: from panoramic prints, through A2+ posters, to fine art sheet media, including poster board. The 17-inch, ten colour printer replaces the Stylus Pro 4900 and features Epson’s UltraChrome HDX inks, 1.5x denser than the previous iteration. A wider contrast ratio and optically clearer images are also promised. As we’d expect, it offers versatile media handling, autoswitching between its high capacity front paper cassette (holding 100 sheets of premium media or 250 sheets of ‘standard’) and roll media

feeder. Its roll media spindle enables the production of panoramas and roll printing up to 30.5m. In short, the SC-P5000 brings all the SureColor printing technology into a 17-inch desktop model, giving photographers, designers and prepress professionals precise colours and the very best results. So we can’t see anyone in the photo trade getting bored of this print workhorse in a hurry. “Speak to us to discover how the SC-P5000 may make for the perfect partner to your print or photo business,” enthuses the DPS Group’s

Maneesh Patel. “Or better still give us a call to arrange dropping by in person and receiving a demo before you buy.” www.thedpsgroup.co.uk/ www.dpsb.co.uk Get in touch: Trade members interested in ordering an Epson SC-P5000 or booking a visit to the DPS Group’s showroom are strongly advised to contact Gary Crawley or David Harrison on 0208 466 7230, or email sales@dpsb.co.uk

Key Epson SureColor SCP5000 features at a glance: n 17-inch desktop printer n 10 colour ink set n Auto switches between high capacity front cassette and roll media feeder n Roll media spindle enables production of panoramic prints n Other media includes poster board and posters up to A2+ in size

Book an appointment now to demo the Epson SC-P5000: There’s nothing better than getting hands-on with a product before deciding whether it’s a perfect match for your business’

print requirements. Get in touch with the DPS Group team now to book a showroom appointment.

For enquiries about DPS Group products, call Gary Crawley or David Harrison NOW on 020 8466 7230, or email sales@dpsb.co.uk 26 May 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Available from :

01442 230022 sales@ddltd.co.uk www.ddltd.co.uk

BPI NEWS BUSINESS ADVICE

kic k

* That’s R’s, as in Retailers and Retailing - Ed

th e

R’ s*

The days are getting longer. The sky is (perhaps) cloud free. Summer holidays and ample opportunities for taking photographs – and selling the necessary kit to enable your customers to do so – are on the horizon. But is everything rosy in your own business, or could some aspects be improved? Resident expert Adam Bernstein has some tips on motivating your workforce to make hay… while the sun shines

28 May 2017 | BPI News

“By incentivising your staff correctly you can watch your profits increase; but you’ll only do this if you set reasonable sales targets. Many make one of three common errors: they make the target too easy to achieve; too difficult to achieve, or it’s based on what other people have achieved.”

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‘MOTIVATIONAL MAY’ SPECIAL

eing a manager in retail is anything but easy. You have responsibilities, need to generate business, fight the web and make decisions that will affect everyone the business employs. You are the leader that staff will follow. With such burdens on your shoulders it’s easy to see how employees and their daily concerns can be forgotten about. Take your eye off the ball and minor signs of dissatisfaction can rapidly deteriorate into problems and resignations. When employees are happy, they feel good about themselves and this feeling of wellbeing rubs off on others. More importantly, happy employees walk with a spring in their step and are, quite simply, more productive. The biggest payoff from having happy employees is that they’re less likely to leave, taking knowledge, experience and possibly custom with them. And of course, if staff leave they will need to be replaced and new recruits trained. That takes time and money. ‘Lucky’ employers will be told when an employee is unhappy: they’ll vocalise their issues. But in the real world, employers more often than not will be ‘unlucky’ and will only find out there’s an issue when an employee quits. So, what are the warning signs that you need to look out for? Well, unhappy, disincentivised and disinterested staff rarely go the extra mile. They make no attempt to exceed standards and expectations, let alone meet them. In other words, they just don’t care about the shop, their work, or even their career. If you find staff in this situation you need to intervene, establish what the causes are and find solutions that may remedy the situation. Remember: meeting the bare minimum isn’t going to help anyone.

Clocking on, or clocking off? It’s rare that employees don’t feel (or display signs of) relief when the clock says they can take a break, go for lunch, or leave for home. That’s entirely natural, especially when a holiday is just around the corner. But what is altogether a different situation is

@bpi_news

Motivating staff & setting sales targets

Stacked in your favour: Take care to incentivise your staff, as unhappy, disincentivised staff rarely go the extra mile, and in challenging commercial times, everyone needs to be on their ‘A game’ to ensure the best for the business

where an employee is perpetually looking at their watch and counting down the time before they can depart. Anyone in this situation is clearly unhappy with their lot and action needs to be taken. Most people are naturally sociable and want to feel that they are part of an organisation (your shop or company) with some sense of belonging. So if you find an employee who is deliberately cutting themselves off from the rest of the team (and it’s especially out of character), it’s time to ask questions and see what can be done. Another manifestation of this is where what used to be a jovial and chatty workplace is now deathly quiet and dull. Isolation isn’t good for anyone.

Promoting an open & transparent workplace Happy employees are enthusiastic employees who have a desire to be creative and the best at what they do – they have pride in the shop, the job, and themselves. Just as importantly, they’re free with ideas they generate and are in such a positive mood that they can take (constructive) criticism on the chin. If you find your employees are dull and uninspired, you need to ask why. Is it their general personality and demeanour… or has their positivity been squashed by unhappiness? Having an open and transparent work place should propagate itself throughout the business. Apart from key and critical executive level matters, there should be no secrets held – by anyone. One of the biggest indicators of trouble is when staff

talk behind a manager’s back, or when there’s an elephant in the room but no one wants to talk about it. Action here is urgently required, or else unhappiness is only going to entrench itself.

Cooperation is key It’s entirely right that in any organisation there is a chain of command and that employees do whatever is reasonably (or lawfully) requested of them. Of course, there will be times when the employee will question what is being asked, possibly because they want clarification of the task. But when staff become reluctant, unwilling to do as they’re told, or contribute to the team effort, you know there’s an issue that needs tackling. It’s been said that communication is part visual and part verbal. As discussed above, it should be easy to pick up on verbal-related clues (the quiet office, private conversations just out of earshot), but visual clues can be a little bit harder, especially as they vary from person to person. One person might huff and sigh, another might have some form of tic that becomes noticeable when they’re stressed, and another might just be not interested or bothered anymore about their appearance, or that of their workspace. Look for signs that people are grimacing rather than smiling. Do the same for body language that is passive or aggressive. If ever you see anything wrong it’s time to act. That way you can keep your staff happy, enthused, and most importantly, motivated to do the best they can for themselves, and for the business as a whole.

While having happy staff is key to success, so is having staff who are selling. After all, no sales equals no revenue. Your objective, as the manager, couldn’t be more straightforward. Your job is to generate enough footfall to realise the sales plans of the business. By incentivising your staff correctly you can watch your profits increase; but you’ll only do this if you set reasonable sales targets (although not all retailers want to offer commission top-up). Many make one of three common errors: they make the target too easy to achieve; too difficult to achieve, or it’s based on what other people have achieved. Any sales target should take into account the individual’s ability, but don’t be afraid of setting ambitious sales targets. You can always reduce a target which turns out to be unrealistically high, but if it is set too low you will have to deal with a good deal of resentment when you have to increase it. Consider setting targets based on the overall sales per individual per month, say for the number of memory cards sold with each new camera, or the overall value of each sale – your POS system should help you monitor this. It must be made clear to your staff that hitting these specific activity targets is just as important as their overall level of sales. There’s no point concentrating on shifting more camera kits if profitable case sales fall. It is accepted nowadays that a salesperson’s basic salary should be sufficient to enable them to pay most, if not all, of their household expenses, whilst leaving them ‘hungry’ for more. Devise packages that mean that about 60-70% of on-target remuneration is basic salary, with the rest coming from performance related payments of various types. Don’t forget the ability to ‘charge back’ commissions, or bonuses, paid on sales which are subsequently returned. This imposes a discipline on staff to sell honestly and to take care over the quality of their sales. A customer pushed into buying a camera when his iPhone will do will either return it soon after, or resent you for not offering refunds. Lastly, salespeople have a comfort zone – a routine with which they have become familiar and comfortable – beyond which it is not necessary to step. Make a point of shaking your sales staff up by reviewing their targets and performance, introducing new products and services and forcing them to compete with others.

BPI News | May 2017 29

NEWS

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Digital Distribution’s speed demon

BPI NEWS PRODUCT OF THE MONTH: PANASONIC LUMIX DC-GH5

THE PHOTO TRADE IS being offered Sony’s self-proclaimed ‘world’s fastest SD card’ via Digital Distribution (see also ad, page 27). The SF-G series has been launched to appeal to photographers now shooting 4K video, up to 50MP stills and having to deal with such data hungry demands, as originally reported in our March

edition. Available in 32GB, 64GB or 128GB capacities on launch, this family of cards provides writing speeds up to 299MB/sec and faster reading speeds up to 300MB/sec for quick file transfer. Email sales@ddltd.co.uk or call 01442 230022 now. www.ddltd.co.uk

THE CHANGING FACE OF IMAGING INTERESTING READING for anyone in the photo trade: Industry watcher Futuresource Consulting has just published a new Consumer Photo Sharing Report, covering the UK, France, Germany and the USA, to investigate the way consumers take, share and print photos. The latest consumer study takes in the recent Snapchat IPO, where it was valued at a whopping $28 billion on its first day of trading. Whilst stock value dropped in subsequent days, it demonstrated the value placed on this type of platform, suggests Futuresource. “People wonder why their daughter is taking 10,000 photos

a day,” says Evan Speigel, CEO of Snapchat’s parent company, Snap. “What they don’t realise is that she isn’t preserving images, she’s talking.” Unsurprisingly, the report notes that there is a clear difference in how different age groups, from ‘millennials’ upward, take and share pictures. But the young shouldn’t be discounted when it comes to physical prints and photo gifts. Interestingly, a higher proportion of millennials had intentions to buy photo products than any other age group, according to Futuresource. www.futuresource-consulting.com

INTRO CATERS FOR DSLR VIDEO SHOOTERS NOT CONTENT WITH announcing two Samyang ‘Xeen’ lenses last month, the Korean lens manufacturer’s UK distributor Intro2020 is following up with the unveiling of a new VDSLR 16mm T2.6 lens this month. This is the 13th

VDSLR cine lens for DSLR cameras in this Samyang range released since 2012, with a further six currently available for mirror-less cameras. SRP for the VDSLR 16mm T2.6 lens is £529, with availability from June. In total Samyang now offers 51 lenses: two premium XP photo lenses, two auto focus lenses, 19 manual focus photo lenses, 19 cine lenses and nine professional video cine lenses specifically under the ‘Xeen’ brand. www.syopt.com www.intro2020.co.uk

30 May 2017 | BPI News

ou want innovation? Launched at the start of the year, this chunky DSLR design ape-ing beast of a mirror-less camera fits comfortably in a small rucksack – so a perfect companion for the great outdoors now the UK weather is improving. Panasonic supplied us with the kit that includes a Leica-branded 12-60mm zoom (24120mm equivalent in 35mm terms) – which is a perfect jack-of-all trades option, especially for any customer of yours who doesn’t already own compatible lenses on purchase (of course, a body-only camera option is also available for those who do). The flagship camera in its manufacturer’s range, complete with sturdy feel magnesium alloy body and comfortably implemented grip, the CSC itself is also a jackof-all-trades, being pitched as a hybrid product, as equally suited to videographers as photographers (for which it has just won a TIPA Award – see page 24). In essence, the GH5 ticks the boxes for everything we could expect of a modern mirrorless camera; this is a one size fits

all solution for professionals and enthusiastic amateurs. So we get 4K video, naturally, alongside 4K photo and the ability to record 6K photos at 30P, thus enabling a 18 megapixel still to be grabbed – otherwise it’s a case of a 8 megapixel still from a 60fps burst of 4K resolution frames. Five-axis in-built image stabilisation – something it’s easy to forget wasn’t offered at one time – helps achieve sharply focused imagery handheld at maximum zoom, whilst the 20.3 megapixel Four Thirds sensor helps pack plenty of detail into each frame. As this is a Panasonic, images are well saturated and colour-rich straight out of the camera, with plenty of punch, whilst the eye-level viewfinder is sufficiently high spec to make you forget you’re viewing a digital image (and also overlook the otherwise useful flip out and twist touchscreen LCD) when composing your frame. Price wise, SRP for the body only is £1699, it’s £1899 with the Panasonic 12-60mm lens, or £2199 with the Leica 12-60mm lens, which is the kit we used to take the sample shots here. www.panasonic.co.uk

Fair play: Well-saturated, punchy images are the order of the day with the TIPA winning GH5

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• Personalised screen surround and personalised home screens

• Burn to CD/DVD in over 30 different file formats

• Remote log-in for configuration, pricing changes and tech support

Pre-loaded gifting templates enable you to produce a wide variety of products in-store or through our off site fulfillment providers The CS1 can slot into virtually any workflow or mini lab set-up on the market. Endless print channels for all print sizes and surfaces to Wet Labs, Inkjet Labs/Printer and Epson LFPs

Off-site fulfillment available on any items

OVER 90 GIFT PRODUCTS INCLUDING;

FAST & EASY IMAGE LOADING

Clocks Calendars Photo Mugs Phone Cases Aluminium Panels & much more

Multiple options to connect via Phones, Tablets, USBs, Memory Cards & Social Media

It's the Photo Gifting Kiosk that everybody's talking about... "The kiosk is so easy to use and customers find the image transfer process easy and efficient. The quality of all the gifting products ordered is fantastic."

"The purchase of the kiosk is proving very worthwhile, bringing in additional revenue that we wouldn’t have normally got. It's very easy for customers to use. Great for the iPhone with customers loving the AirPrint."

"The Creative Station has enabled us to offer a much wider range photo gifts in store. Our customers love the ease of use"

Plus 2 Print, Downpatrick

Alta Image, Hertford

Kodak Express Kilburn

Exclusively from Tetenal Ltd | TEL: 0116 289 3644 | tetenaluk.com/cs1kiosk

* ” & 12x16” PRINTS 12 8x ”, 10 8x , 9” 4x6”, 5x7”, 6x r or minilab formats * Subject to printe

AS SEEN AT:

Y G O L O N H C E T T S E T A L E TH

T C A P M O C IN A K! PHOTO KIOS

Choose from our range of printers to connect your Life Kiosk.

• • • • • • •

23” touch screen Wide range of photographic products Transfer your photos from smartphones or tablets Photo-Me software to print Passport & VISA photos Get a share of the multi-million pound UK ID photo market! Compatible with many printers or minilabs User-friendly interface

NEW! DISCOVER OUR SELFIE BOOTH The trendy Selfie Booth will bring fun and entertainment to all your events. Create a lasting memento that your guests can instantly print or share on social media. Order yours today: 01372 453 399 and ask for Marketing

Tel: +44 (0) 1372 453 399 @: marketing@photo-me.co.uk WWW.PHOTO-ME.CO.UK