British Photographic Industry News November 2019

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NOVEMBER 2019 • £3

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OUT OF THE SHADOWS!

Latest & greatest photo innovations & accessories from Canon, Fujifilm, Kodak Moments, MAC Group, Olympus, Panasonic, PhotoXport, Vanguard, Viking Optical, Ultimat & more to inspire winter sales – SEE INSIDE!

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IN THIS ISSUE…

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With the UK’s biggest photo independent back in the news we separate fact from fiction and ask what’s next for the high street?

Nikon’s ‘Z’ series swells to a trio with the introduction of the mirrorless enthusiast-targeted Z 50, just in time for Xmas

Northumberland’s Stait Photography tells us why it has refocused 85% of business towards photo printing & photo gifts

Our resident business expert explains why you should be placing ‘velvet handcuffs’ on valued staff to prevent loss of talent & knowledge

C AT C H T H E W I N T E R L I G H T W I T H N I KO N

Photographer: ŠAlex Stead

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Editorial | November 2019

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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

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

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e’ve reached November already and with that, the weekend retail bonanza christened Black Friday looms large.

Whether you look on this ‘event’ as an opportunity to clear out old stock and replenish the coffers – some stores tell us it does better for them than the two weeks prior to Christmas – or, conversely, see it as the work of Satan, promoting a race to the bottom, it’s an American import that has in recent times been hard to ignore. While the days of consumers fighting over discounted TVs in the supermarket seem to have passed, it will be interesting to see how things fair this year. Will governmental and economic uncertainty prove a distraction for many, painting it more grey than black?

Talking of uncertainty, more news broke regarding Jessops as we were putting this issue together. While some commentators were already writing its obituary and confessing a lack of surprise, the official word is that it’s the property

“IT’S CHRISSSTMASSS!”

Well, almost. Our combined Dec/Jan edition is next up, with a copy deadline of November 21st. Get your bookings in to us NOW!

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COVER IMAGE: With Black Friday and Christmas getting closer we focus on all the cool, new innovative products arriving this month & next, providing you with the ammunition to make sales and turn a profit in the busiest and most competitive time of the year for photo retail…

arm of the business that has shared its intent to call in administrators, as part of a re-structuring push designed to make its remaining 46 stores more financially viable. As such, this was portrayed to us as a positive step.

Whatever your own personal take on it, it seems like the household name won’t be disappearing from the high street completely. Or certainly the plan is to prevent that happening. A stilldeveloping story at the time of writing, like its staff we await further info.

Talking of staff, our business advice feature this issue focuses on the importance of retaining long serving, knowledgeable colleagues. In this age of warehouse box shifters, being able to offer the USP of sound advice – yes, there may be plenty of advice floating around on the Internet, but how much of it can be claimed as ‘sound’? – just might encourage the customer to spend money in your shop rather than save £1.50 by heading to Amazon. With reports suggesting consumers are keener to spend their money on ‘experiences’ than physical goods these days, ensure a visit to your store is an experience in itself. We’ve more advice on page 26.

And, talking of physical goods, we were party to some exciting launches from Nikon, Olympus and Fujifilm this month, while Canon and Panasonic are pushing their existing flagship ranges this side of Christmas. The traditional seasonal cash-backs and bonus offers from the manufacturers are also getting underway.

Elsewhere we share some exciting innovations in the world of camera bags and tripods, as well as in print.

It’s all designed to put you in the black this festive season, so enjoy the issue!

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CANON WIRED FOR SOUND & VISION THIS WINTER The photographic giant is much in the news this month, with flurry of announcements.

First up, there’s a Mark III version of its flagship EOS-1D X under development, alongside two additional RF lenses launching for its full frame R mirrorless series – see page 11 for more – a new screen-less point and shoot camera in the Canon Ivy Rec, and two new accessories for those looking to shoot video in the Canon HG-100TBR Tripod Grip and DM-E100 Stereo Microphone.

The forthcoming EOS-1D X Mark III (top right) incorporates an all new sensor and DIGIC processor, represents ‘an impressive step change in autofocus’ according to the manufacturer, with image quality,

video and communications all claimed to have been dramatically improved, while it’s also stated that professionals will be confident that they can get ‘the shot’ – and faster than ever before. It also offers the ability to shoot in RAW for both video and stills and boasts built in Wi-Fi. More details to follow when we have them!

While an upgraded DSLR is fairly expected news, less so is Canon’s release of the 13 megapixel ‘Ivy Rec’ (page opposite), which is described as a fun and easy to use activity camera that clips onto a belt or bag or slips seamlessly into your customers’ pockets.

Features include Full HD video capture at up to 60fps, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

connectivity and simple recharging via USB. Being an action camera it’s also waterproof for up to 30 minutes at a depth of two metres and shock proofed against drops from two meters in height. The device comes in four ‘flavours’: Riptide (blue), Dragon Fruit (pink), Avocado or Stone, with sales scheduled for ‘later this year’ at a price TBC. Coming December meanwhile are the aforementioned HG-100TBR and DME100 (both £99 SRP). With the products

Fujifilm hopes for a full ‘House’ this December More news and visuals have reached us in relation to Fujifilm’s planned London Megastore – or ‘House of Photography’ as it has now been named. With latest enquiries suggesting a December opening, and store bosses now named as Manager Gordon Mills and Deputy Manager Shanice Meddings (pictured, with thanks to Alex for modelling), it’s being described as a ‘permanent addition’ to the busy Covent Garden area.

There will be different themed areas within the store and across its three levels.

These will include focuses on Instax instant camera and both X and GFX series, as well as an integral Wonder Photo Shop, which the manufacturer suggests will be the benchmark for all the printing and photo gifting services it has to offer. The idea is that visitors will be able to learn how creative they can be with their photos – whether taken on a dedicated camera or smartphone.

Also within the ‘House’ will be a number of dedicated studios where members of the public can try out Fuji cameras and lenses ‘and directly compare their images from their smartphones’. Further features will include a gallery area – exhibiting portraits of David Bowie by photographer Markus Klinko upon launch – plus a dedicated

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seminar or ‘Fujifilm School & Workshops’ zone. Fujifilm Professional Service members also get their own dedicated space where they’ll be able to network with other professionals at their leisure, while there’ll be a 10m x 5m studio available to rent on site on either a half day or full day basis.

Creative Director Luke Allum of Liberation Build, which has worked with Fujifilm on the project, says: “The House of Photography aims to amplify society’s love of photography via a wonderland of sensory photo opportunities. A hub of activity and learning, encouraging visitors to get hands on with product and explore how only Fujifilm can take visitors on the journey of photo taking through to making and beyond. We are delighted that our strategic

vision, branding and designs have been so fully embraced by Fujifilm. We believe the customer experience will be the North Star for retail, a breakthrough that shows the future of UK retail can be bright.” www.fujifilm.co.uk

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suggested for use with the more compact cameras in Canon’s line up, such as the PowerShot G7 X Mark III, the former is described as a unique tripod grip that enables consumers to capture stable footage and film at a range of angles – in fact it allows the camera to be rotated 360° left or right. An adjustable camera mount further enables the camera to tilt forward 45° or back 90°, which the manufacturer suggests should appeal

to ‘vloggers’, with a further point of interest being an integrated Bluetooth remote control in the BR-E1; this can be operated by the same hand when the product is used as a grip.

The DM-E100 condenser microphone meanwhile boasts the ability to record 120° unidirectional stereo sounds, for more professional results when filming videos. Connection to a camera is via the built-in 3.5mm audio jack. The mic

itself weighs just 64g and is said to be no bigger than the palm of a hand.

In related news, Canon celebrated the production of 100 million EOS series lenses last month, while an EOS R mirrorless camera apparently became its 100th million EOS series camera produced to date. www.canon.co.uk

JESSOPS ‘RESTRUCTURES’ AS PROPERTY ARM CALLS IN ADMINISTRATORS

JR Prop Limited – the property arm of the Jessops business – has ‘filed for an intention to appoint administrators’, a spokeswoman confirmed to BPI News. This is being explained as part of a ‘positive’ process of restructuring, intended to ‘streamline the property estate’ and make Jessops’ current 46 stores more financially viable. Jessops Europe, the holding company of its retail operations, is said to remain unaffected by the planned administration.

While this was a still developing story as we went to press, with the move being widely reported as an attempt to renegotiate and drive down rents, it follows last month’s news that CEO Neil Old had left Jessops over the summer and was not being replaced.

It’s also been confirmed to BPI News that before the restructuring story

Cutting costs?

Chairman Peter Jones, seen here opening the Oxford Street store a year ago, is hoping to make remaining stores more ‘viable’

broke, several Jessops stores had recently been shuttered, including Horsham, Tunbridge Wells and Redditch, plus a mini branch in Oldbury Sainsbury’s. www.jessops.com

Swains’ Christmas Gift Supplement To ensure your till is ringing as loudly as the jingle bells this Christmas, point your browser at www.swains.co.uk to download the distributor’s 2019 Christmas Gift Supplement, described as 12 pages (one for each day of Christmas!) packed full of seasonal gift ideas. Included in the supplement are frames, albums, festive decorations and newly introduced Christmas Eve Gift Boxes and Gift Sacks. Alongside photo gifts, Swains’ guide also features audio products from Nedis, which it describes as great value, plus Swains’ own dye sublimation gift range, destined to be hugely popular.

If you’re not already offering printed gifts then speak to your Swains Regional Sales Manager who can advise on how your business can benefit from this profitable service.

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2019 5

BPI News Extra

NIKON PUTS A ‘Z’ IN XMAS

The festive season looks busy for the brand, in launching a new mirrorless camera and lenses, starting a seasonal promotion and relocating its UK HQ to Surbiton. BPI News reports

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hile the manufacturer’s big reveal last month was a flagship D6 under development, for November we’ve actual product in the 20.88 megapixel Nikon Z 50, its third ‘Z’ series camera, following on from 2018’s full frame Z 6 and Z 7. Nikon Europe Vice President John Walshe described the camera to BPI News as representing “an absolute new era” for the company.

The newest ‘Z’ differs in that it incorporates a smaller APS-C sensor – making it Nikon’s first ‘DX format’ mirrorless – and is identifiably more consumer and blogger targeted than its ‘Z’ forebears. That’s reflected in the sub-£1,000 body only asking price.

UK Marketing Manager Jeremy Gilbert – whose early retirement following The Photography Show next March was also announced at the Z 50’s London launch – described the new mirrorless as: “small, but no lightweight when it comes to features.” Weighing 395g without battery and card and inheriting key characteristics from Nikon’s existing mirrorless and DSLRs, we were told its Xmas ‘19 offering “looks and feels like a Nikon” and resides in its current enthusiast range alongside the D7500.

Nikon’s Head of Business Planning Jake Cundy added that the Z 50 has two target markets. The first is the hobbyist upgrading from its D5000/D7000 series, while the second is influencers and bloggers wanting better image quality than their smartphone can deliver. In offering Nikon SnapBridge Ver 2.6 support, the camera can connect to a smart device via Bluetooth to enable the transfer of Raw files as well as JPEGs.

customisable ‘i’ menu with the ability to preset 12 favoured settings and a ‘silent photography’ mode, which is another first for a Nikon DX model. The camera can also shoot 4K UHD video, or Full HD quality 120fps slow motion video with audio, while it’s compatible with Nikon’s ML-L7 wireless remote control and features a brand new EN-EL25 battery.

Hitting the big 5-0: Nikon’s latest mirrorless differs from the previously released Z 6 and Z 7 in featuring an APS-C sensor, a sub-£1000 asking price, plus a flip-down screen for ‘selfies’

NIKON’S CORE STRENGTH Core features comprise an Expeed 6 processing engine, 3.2-inch touch screen monitor adjustable through 180° for inevitable ‘selfies’, Nikon’s first DX sensor with phase detection AF, the ability to focus in low light conditions down to -4EV, a core light sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 51,200, plus the Eye AF system from the Z 6 and Z 7. In addition it boasts an electronic viewfinder with 100% frame coverage and 2.36 million dot resolution, as well as a

L to R: Nikon’s ‘top brass’ were out in force at the Z 50’s launch, including Nikon Europe Vice President John Walshe and Marketing Director Jeremy Gilbert. John announced that Jeremy is retiring next March and will be succeeded by Charlotte Kemsley

Along with the camera Nikon is releasing two new Nikkor Z DX format lenses in the 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR (the standard kit lens for the Z 50, seen above, left) and a 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR telephoto zoom (above, right), which weighs 405g and has built in Vibration Reduction equivalent to 5 stops. SRP for the lenses is £329 and £379 respectively. In addition Nikon unveiled a new lens roadmap.

As for the camera, body only price is £849, a very useful bundle comprising camera and both 16-50mm and 50-250mm lenses is £1,199, while Nikon is offering a free FTZ mount adaptor to those ordering early as a further enticement. Sales start November 7th, with product roadshows taking place at selected retailers.

Also newly released is Nikon’s previously announced 58mm f/0.95 S ‘Noct’ lens (right)– very much a specialist tool with a price tag of £8,299 – plus a rather more affordable MB-N10 battery pack for its Z 6 and Z 7 at £179 SRP, with sales starting this month.

Finally, retailers will want to know (if they don’t already) that Nikon has launched a Christmas savings promotion, that started on October 15th and runs through until January 15th. Key details can be found at nikonpromotions.co.uk www.nikon.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 6 November 2019 | BPI News

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BPI News Extra

PROS GIVEN THE POWER OF ‘3’ BY FUJIFILM

Following Sept’s announcement that there is an X-Pro3 mirrorless on the way, we now have a release date and price. BPI News attended the London unveiling to get hands-on and grab some images

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fter last month’s unusual step of Fujifilm announcing a new flagship mirrorless camera in a live stream from Japan, we were able to get hands on with the 26 megapixel X-Pro3 ourselves in London. What we didn’t know then, but we know now, is that the camera comes in a choice of three colours: regular Black, scratch resistant Dura Black or Dura Silver. The latter two employ what the manufacturer describes as a cold plasma technology that binds the paintwork to the metal surface.

All three are constructed from hardwearing titanium, as previously reported, though in fact it’s the camera’s top and bottom plates that are titanium, while the rest of the body is magnesium alloy. Pick the camera up and you get the sense that this is a quality, solidly made product, with the laser-etched logo on the top plate being a literal standout. Probably the most striking feature, however, is a flip-open LCD screen that is otherwise hidden facing the body when the camera is not in use – something that Fuji UK’s Marketing Manager Andreas Georghiades admitted was a ‘Marmite’ feature, but is “about making the camera as discreet as possible”.

AT YOUR DISCRETION While we can see the covert screen’s appeal for photographers more used to shooting on film – indeed the Film Simulation mode in use is shown in a smaller LCD window that is visible when the larger screen isn’t – we did find ourselves constantly flipping it open to examine the shot we’d just taken. Over

Unveiled via Japan last month and hitting UK stores this month, Fujifilm’s flagship X-Pro3 includes the self-confessed ‘Marmite’ feature of a hidden larger LCD screen that flips open at the back, as shown

“The hidden LCD is a ‘Marmite’ feature that’s about making the camera as discreet as possible… We also wanted to discourage use of the screen and encourage use of the viewfinder.”

Fujifilm UK Marketing Manager Andreas Georghiades time, though, we could imagine trusting our instincts more as we became more familiar with the camera’s responses and this becoming less of an issue. Also, any photographer used to shooting on medium format may enjoy being provided with a screen that, if you are using it, prompts you to shoot at waist level. Conveniently, the main LCD is also a touch screen.

Despite the above features the manufacturer has been able to keep the weight the same as the X-Pro2 and likewise weather sealed, while the popular hybrid viewfinder has been retained – which Fujifilm now claims is clearer, with the camera offering both a higher viewpoint and a larger angle of view (27° as opposed to the X-Pro2’s 24°). The viewfinder also utilises a new 0.5-inch OLED panel with a 3.69 milliondot resolution and a wider colour space (more of the colour spectrum) than ever before, along with a higher 100fps frame rate. “We wanted to discourage use of the screen and encourage use of the viewfinder,” the company’s Andreas reasoned at our preview session. “We appreciate this means that the camera isn’t going to be for everyone, but

we wanted to make sure it will be appreciated by those who do use it.”

We touched on a new Film Simulation mode in ‘Classic Neg’ last issue following the Japanese teaser, which is described to us as offering lower saturation but higher tonality. There’s also a TIFF output option as well as JPEG and Raw, while, as with any new camera, it’s worth touching on the AF system which here is said to be able to function down to -6 EV. More specialised features include focus bracketing auto calculation – with the user able to select start and end points – as well as an AF range limiter, which in itself is manually adjustable. “We’re listening more to our end users,” reasons Andreas.

Also worth mentioning is the ability to capture 370 frames from a fully charged battery and a core ISO range stretching from ISO160 to 12800.

While camera body pricing was still to be confirmed as we went to press, it’s believed the regular version will be £1699, while the two ‘Dura’ versions will be £1899 SRP. The cameras are scheduled to appear mid to end of this November. www.fujifilm-x.com

We shot sample images on an X-Pro3 plus 35mm lens on a gloomy day in London’s Borough Market. Despite dim conditions, we were rewarded with detail-rich images with colours that really popped if selecting Velvia Film Simulation mode

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 8 November 2019 | BPI News

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BPI News Product Focus

AT THE VANGUARD OF THE PHOTO TRADE FOR 30+ YEARS Tripod and bag specialist Vanguard has come a long way in three decades, including winning 12 TIPA awards since 2009. In 2019 alone it’s launched over 150 products; a record year

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hough we haven’t featured Vanguard in these pages for quite a while, it hasn’t been silent. It’s been quietly introducing a new ‘Collection’ strategy, winning awards and launching a record number of new products, with a growing focus on mirrorless cameras.

On top of this, the brand’s Managing Director Ian Bywater reminds us: “We’re proud to be one of the few accessories brands that designs, manufactures and sells its own products, and we’ve also focused on building ‘Collections’ so that dealers can sell across categories in the knowledge the products within the collection will complement each other.”

PRODUCTS WITH PLENTY OF GET UP & ‘GO’ Hero products worth investigation include the VEO 2GO travel tripod line up (right), released in April.

Perfect for photographers seeking the ultimate blend of portability and performance, these high quality offerings fold down as small as 325mm and weigh as little as 770g. They can nevertheless extend up to 164cm and take a maximum payload of 6kg, with a 10kg maximum capacity model due soon. Great features include an Arca Swiss compatible ball head, three easy set leg angles, a reversible centre column and round rubber feet that can convert to spike feet.

Complementing the VEO 2GO travel tripods are new, stylish and lightweight VEO GO Bags (below). These are focused on the growing mirrorless market, and offer a choice of high quality black or khaki materials. Amongst the options is the VEO GO 34M (RRP £69.99) that includes an internal tripod compartment for a VEO 2GO tripod. It folds down to 32.5cm to disguise the fact that you’re carrying a valuable camera kit as you travel. Alternatively

it can take a small drone, a small gimbal, a longer lens or whatever suits best.

Customers can currently buy a VEO CAPTURE KIT that includes a 23mm carbon or aluminium VEO 2GO travel tripod with a black VEO GO 34M and save £50 off the combined kit price.

Released back in May, VEO SELECT is a stylish executive-look bag series that converts from a backpack to a shoulder bag in seconds. Starting at £129.99 in a choice of either black or green, the VEO SELECT 41 can fit a mirrorless camera or smaller DSLR with lens attached, two to three extra lenses, a flash and accessories, up to a 13-inch laptop, plus a tripod via the side pocket. The larger VEO SELECT 49 (main image) can carry all of the above, plus an additional camera body with lens attached, and up to a 15-inch laptop.

New in October are tri-foot VEO 2S monopods (right) with a choice of smartphone adapter or video head, including aluminium or carbon fibre models (starting from £79.99). VEO 2 PRO tripods are also new, starting at £99.99 and including an incredibly versatile 3-way pan head (patent pending) where the second horizontal handle can swivel 90°

We’ve got your back: Vanguard’s clever VEO SELECT 49, shown above, rapidly converts from shoulder bag to backpack

to allow it to be set up for left-handed photographers, or facilitate video with a DSLR or mirrorless camera.

DRIVING RETAILER SALES PRE-CHRISTMAS As more sales move online, Vanguard remains committed to driving profitable retail store sales, recognising that photographers often want to touch and feel the products before buying, and that the shopper will be all the poorer without stores offering this long term. Evidence of this can be seen with a strong Christmas promotional campaign, developed with the needs of independent specialist dealers in mind.

Products on promotion include the VEO 2 235CB carbon fibre travel tripod for just £120 with a strong dealer margin, a saving of up to £100 on Alta Pro 2+ tripods, plus savings of £50 on Alta Fly roller cases (including the 2018 TIPA winning Alta Fly 55T (left) backpack/roller) and savings of £50 on Alta Sky PRO backpack cases (including the multi award winning Alta Sky 51D backpack).

For more on all of the above, make sure you contact Vanguard NOW on info@vanguardworld.co.uk or call 01202 651281.

For profitable sales on high quality, innovative & feature packed camera bags and tripods, visit www.vanguardworld.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2019 9

BPI News Product Focus

SEE PROFITS ‘INFLATE’ WITH WANDRD & VIKING OPTICAL Even more innovative new product is arriving this month via the Viking Optical distributed WANDRD camera bags range, sure to deliver ‘bags of profit’ for photo retailers this Christmas…

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ack in September we learnt how binocular and optics specialist Viking Optical had acquired a new agency in WANDRD, becoming exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for the American brand’s self-proclaimed ‘world’s best travel camera bag.’

To stand out in an already crowded bag market requires innovation in spades however – and that’s exactly what WANDRD bags deliver. For example, the latest selection introduces clever new inflatable features.

“These new inflatable WANDRD products provide space saving and protective solutions that are as light as air,” Viking Optical Sales Manager Rob Whyatt tells us. “Designed to go wherever you go, they’re perfect for the travel photographer.”

YKK zippers, a theft deterrent buckle and various handy pockets. Offering overall dimensions of 18x11x9-inches, the bag can be packed down to just 6x9x2-inches.

SRP for the bags is £94.95, whereas a Veer Photo Kit bundle adds on the Inflatable Camera Cube for £139.95 SRP all-in.

Not just hot air: WANDRD’s innovative new inflatable bags can be enlarged or decreased in size as the photographer’s necessity dictates

a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens attached. Featuring ‘ProtectAir’ technology, this is a protective case designed to be as light as air and to travel with photographers wherever they go. Dimensions are 7.75x10x5-inches, and it can be squeezed down to just 6.5x3x3inches for packing. As noted above, this product can also be integrated with the Veer 18L pack. If bought standalone, the Inflatable Camera Cube is £45 SRP.

NOTHING TO FEAR FROM INFLATION With the ability to be inflated – or deflated – as necessary, there are four new WANDRD product lines for photo retailers and their customers to focus on.

The Veer 18L Backpack (above) is described as the first packable bag with an inflatable back panel – which is removable – and, as part of a bundle Photo Kit option, also comes supplied with an Inflatable Camera Cube (otherwise sold separately).

There are three attractive colour choices: Black, Cobalt or Rust (below). The idea is that photographers are able to strike the right balance between having enough camera bag space and keeping it minimal, as desired. Features include air mesh shoulder straps, weather resistant outer materials,

Next up is the Detour Hip Pack (above), described as packing down to half the size of a cheese toastie. Its manufacturer adds that there is nothing else like it out there! Sporting dimensions of 10.25x8x5inches, it can be packed down to just 6.25x4.5x2.5-inches. Shoulder and hip belts are supplied – hence the name of the pack – along with organizational pockets and weather resistant zippers. SRP is £55.

A perfect pairing with the Detour Hip Pack for those photo retailers seeking to make an additional sale is the Inflatable Camera Cube (below), which is able to fit the likes of a Canon 5D MK IV with

The fourth new WANDRD product is the Inflatable Lens Case (above), described as a space saving protective solution that will fit just about any size of lens that photographers may deem to carry – from the smallest pancake lens up to a 70200mm. So, very handily, your customers no longer need a specific case for a specific lens! With weather resistant zippers, regular dimensions are 9x5x5-inches, or 3x5x5-inches when packed. SRP is £50.

Further details on the clever carry solutions above can be found at www.vikingoptical.co.uk.

To place an order meanwhile, the photo trade is invited to contact Viking’s Sales Manager Rob Whyatt direct via rob@vikingoptical.co.uk or on 07563 958046. For the North of England, Scotland and Ireland please contact Area Representative Trish Donald on 07754 681399 or trish@vikingoptical.co.uk

Don’t feel deflated this Christmas! Contact Viking Optical’s Rob Whyatt to place your WANDRD bags order now 10 November 2019 | BPI News

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BPI News Product Focus

CANON EOS R: A SYSTEM IN GROWTH The full frame EOS R and EOS RP mirrorless cameras from earlier this year have been joined by an ever broadening range of lenses and accessories, making them sound future investments for enthusiasts and pros wanting lighter bodies yet that renowned EOS performance

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o get ahead in life you need a system, runs the old adage. Sitting alongside the more consumer targeted APS-C sensor incorporating EOS M mirrorless system (swelled in recent months by both the EOS M6 Mark II and EOS M200 – see BPI News Sept and Oct) is the well received and equally thriving full frame EOS R mirrorless system.

As you’ll be aware from our original report on the most recent EOS RP body in BPI News March this year, the more compact and lightweight ‘R’ series bodies mean they’re ideally suited for travel and street photographers.

While the feature set offered by the flagship 30.3 megapixel ‘R’ model will hook the pros, the more keenly priced 26.2 megapixel ‘RP’ model will appeal to advanced amateurs and those who simply want a camera for everyday use.

Building on 30 years of existing EOS innovation, both current camera bodies are supported by an ever-growing army of RF lenses – which underlines Canon’s commitment to the system, now and in the future, encouraging photographers to make the necessary investment or even switch from competing brands.

The manufacturer is also constantly updating the cameras’ properties – with the most recent firmware improving eye detection AF so that it not only starts a lot earlier, but is more accurate with it.

A STRONG INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY In addition to bodies, the EOS R system likewise shows its mettle when it comes to the availability of directly compatible lenses. While any existing Canon EF and EF-S range lens can be added via an EF-EOS R mount adapter, just as we were going to press the manufacturer announced the release of two new RF lenses that were previously announced as being in development: the RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS, which both now arrive this December at £2,699.99 and £3,249.99 respectively.

The RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

completes what Canon is calling its ‘trinity’ f/2.8L series – arriving as it does hot on the heels of the August announcement of the RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM – and is described as the world’s shortest and lightest interchangeable

A pair of aces: Canon’s full frame EOS R shown left, with the newer RP on right

“Interest in EOS R has been strong and sales have followed suit from the outset, meaning that we expect an equally strong showing in the run up to Christmas...”

Canon UK Marketing Director Tracey Fielden lens to deliver such a focal range to full frame cameras. In fact at 1,070g and 146mm in length at its shortest point, the new optic is 28 per cent lighter and 27 per cent shorter than the existing EF mount model. It’s also the first RF lens with a white heat shield coating, so it can perform at the highest standard whatever the weather.

The RF 85mm f/1.2L USM ‘DS’ meanwhile is described as a complementary lens to the previously announced RF 85mm f/1.2L USM, in sharing the same optical excellence but adding a unique to Canon ‘DS’ coating, applied

A touch of ‘glass’: The two newest RF series lenses in the 70-200mm plus 85mm ‘DS’ version

on both the front and rear surfaces of the lens, not just on one side which is common of similar lenses on the market. This is said to help softly and smoothly blur the entire outline of ‘bokeh’ and help subjects to really ‘pop’.

The above recent releases all join the previously announced as under development 10x zoom RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, plus six pre-existing RF series lenses, a mixture of primes and zooms, in the RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM, RF 50mm f/1.2L USM, RF 24240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, RF 85mm f/1.2L USM, RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM and RF 28-70mm f/2L USM. Fast, versatile and uncompromising when it comes to quality, the introduction of all of these creative options shows Canon always responds to customer requests and puts the needs of its photographers first.

Canon UK Marketing Director Tracey Fielden concludes: “The EOS R system is all about resetting the boundaries of photography and making the impossible possible with a system for the future.

It exploits the advantages of the EOS system through compatibility with existing optics via adapter, plus the ability to utilise Speedlite flashes and accessories – all within smaller and more lightweight bodies. Interest has been strong and sales have followed suit from the outset, meaning that we expect an equally strong showing in the run up to Christmas – and beyond!” canon.co.uk/eos-r-system

The Canon EOS R proposition: a choice of two heavy-duty yet lightweight camera bodies & a growing RF lens family in support @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2019 11

BPI News Extra

OLYMPUS BREAKS FREE A new OM-D E-M5 Mark III mirrorless is arriving before Christmas to go with an equally new ‘Break Free’ brand marketing campaign. BPI News reports from a magical London launch…

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travel camera for everybody’ is the pitch for the third generation of Olympus’ 20.4 megapixel OM-D E-M5, arriving the middle of this month (and in the brand’s 100th anniversary year). With the location of magician’s mecca The Magic Circle in London chosen to launch the camera – thereby bestowing it with a sprinkling of virtual fairy dust –differences from the previous generation include that the polycarbonate-bodied Mark III is lighter than the previous Mark II by 100g, it uses a smaller BLS-50 battery with reportedly no reduction in the amount of images captured, plus the image stabilisation system has further been miniaturised. All of this plays into Olympus’ latest marketing push, which focuses on encouraging photographers to ‘Break Free’ from using larger cameras and lenses.

In addition, the third generation of the E-M5 is newly rechargeable via USB, and its auto focus system is described as having been ‘completely remade’, with low light performance improved.

ONCE, TWICE, THREE TIMES AN OM-D E-M5 Talking of the camera’s AF system – the chief battleground for most manufacturers these days – core features include a 121 cross type on-chip phase detection system, five-axis image stabilisation, plus dust, splash and freezeproof construction. In fact, Olympus tells us that its IS system is equivalent to 5.5 EV steps, a performance that it says can be bumped up to 6.5 EV if the camera is twinned with its 12-100mm f/4 Pro lens. The in-camera dust reduction system is also said to match that of the

Your OM-D E-M5 Mk III crib sheet: n Compact and lightweight dust and splash proof body (weighs 100g less than predecessor) n 20.4MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor n 5 axis image stabilisation system offers up to 6.5 EV steps of compensation n TruePic VIII image processor n 121 point all cross type phase detection AF system n Battry chargeable via USB n Weighs 366g body only n Available in black and silver versions from mid November, with SRPs starting at £1099.99 body only

E-M1X, while Olympus UK’s Marketing Manager Georgina Pavelin described its weather sealing as ‘best in its class.’

Enthusiasts will enjoy the fact that camera has a 2.36 megapixel eyelevel OLED viewfinder, offering 0.69x magnification and 100% field of view, as well as a larger thumb rest compared with its predecessor for a more comfortable hold. Live Bulb mode has also been promoted from the in-camera menu to a feature on the shooting mode dial.

Focus bracketing and focus stacking functionality has also been added, while Olympus has updated the image processor to be able to improve the Auto ISO limit by two steps – extending it up to ISO6400 from ISO1600.

Naturally the camera features the ability for users to shoot C4K resolution ‘movies’ at 24 fps, with a Full HD 120 fps slow motion option alternatively. It’s also both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi equipped, thus allowing the camera to be connected to a smartphone via the downloadable Olympus Image Share ‘app’, if so desired.

At the time of writing Olympus was touting a pre-order offer of £100 trade-

Best in class: Olympus UK Marketing Manager Georgina Pavelin with the third generation OM-D E-M5

in plus a free BLS-50 battery (see ad for details), and was planning a series of promotional events with dealers.

With the E-M5 Mk III on sale the middle of this month, SRP is £1099.99 body only, or it’s £1399.99 with a 14-50mm lens, £1599.99 with a 12200mm f/3.5-6.3 zoom or £1699.99 with a 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro lens.

Accessories for dealers to piggyback on the sale of the camera include a ECG-5 grip, which features a shutter release button as well as control dial, while providing an improved hold. www.olympus.co.uk

Magic circle: Olympus chose a location with a sprinkling of fairy dust to launch the camera and allow us to snatch a few sample shots, as above

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 12 November 2019 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

ALL YOU NEED. BREAK FREE. PRE-O RDER BONU S O F Ask in- FER! store fo r detail Ends 0 6/01/20 20

JUST RIGHT. Sometimes a camera comes along that really hits the sweet-spot.

The new E-M5 Mark III is a beautifully balanced combination of size and power. On the surface it is a discreet travel companion that can go with you anywhere, but beneath the weatherproof skin are levels of performance inherited from the flagship E-M1 range giving it hidden talents.

All you need to explore wherever and whenever you like.

Find out more at your local dealer or go to olympus.co.uk. #breakfreewitholympus

s.

BPI News Product Focus

MAKE A ‘TALL’ ORDER FOR BENRO VIA MAC GROUP

Distributor MAC Group has a new limited edition Slim Tall innovation in its ever-expanding Benro range of tripods to share with the photo trade, with ‘one time only’ stock arriving this month in order to boost your Black Friday and Christmas sales. BPI News finds out why you should be adding it to your offerings…

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o photo retailer wants to be legless this Christmas; we’re referring of course to tripods, and the need to order in stock of accessories that will make for an easy sale along with that of a mirrorless camera. In timely fashion, stock of a new Benro tripod kit – Limited Edition Slim Tall tripods – is hitting stores this November. Available via distributor MAC Group, Brand Manager Mark Hoskins describes the choice of either aluminium or carbon fibre models as ‘perfect for the Black Friday sales period’.

He continues: “The extra operating height means that taller photographers will be able to shoot with a Slim at eye height and many more will be able to reduce the centre column extension as required and increase the tripod stability.”

MAC Group adds that Benro’s Slim tripods have been a consistently popular choice since their introduction – which is put down to big tripod quality and features at a great price. But don’t delay if you want the new limited edition Slim Tall kits to boost sales around Black Friday and Christmas, as this is described as a one time only opportunity to purchase.

“Perfect for the Black Friday sales period, the extra operating height means that taller photographers will be able to shoot with the limited edition Slim Tall tripods at eye height.”

MAC Group Brand Manager for Benro, Mark Hoskins ‘Heads’ up: MAC Group believes its latest limited edition pair of distributed Benro tripods not only stand tall but also stand proud of the competition

A ‘HIGHER’ CHANCE OF MAKING A SALE Benro has taken its original TSL08AN00 and TSL08CN00 tripods and extended the tube lengths to bring you ‘Tall’ versions in a choice of both carbon fibre and aluminium construction – delivering the TSL08CLN00 (£140 SRP) and TSL08ALN00 (£100 SRP) respectively. The pair’s maximum extendable height of 164cm is 18cm taller than the standard Slim models with the centre column extended, and with just a small weight ‘penalty’ of 100g for the limited edition versions.

MAC Group reasons that with the market for mirrorless cameras growing along with demand for lighter and more compact accessories, the Slim Tall tripod models will appeal to a broad group of photographers. Maximum load weight for both carbon fibre and aluminium options is 4Kg, and each can be folded down to a length of just 55cm for portability.

So, this winter, aim higher with your sales by taking advantage of Benro’s Slim Tall tripod kits.

For stock, get in touch with MAC Group NOW on 01902 255500 or via info@macgroupeu.com www.macgroupeu.com

Get in touch to match the limited edition Benro Slim Tall tripod to your customers via info@macgroupeu.com or 01902 255500 14 November 2019 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Minilab News

NEW SUBS ‘TO DYE FOR’ VIA PHOTOXPORT & CITIZEN Leicester’s PhotoXport, official partner to Citizen Photo, exclusive UK distributor of Noritsu, and supplier of OKI solutions, returns to update us on latest exciting developments – most notably two new Citizen dye subs

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t’s been a little while since we last heard from Leicester’s PhotoXport – but it’s been keeping as busy as ever, installing its much-in-demand and well-received Noritsu wet and IJ dry labs, LED printers from the OKI brand, plus dye sub printers from Citizen.

The big news this month is that it’s offering the trade stock of the latter’s two newest devices, as showcased at the Photo Booth Show a couple of weeks back, held at the Leicester Tigers Rugby Ground.

“We had a great show with lots of positive interest in the Citizen dye sub printers we were showcasing,” enthuses PhotoXport’s pro-active MD Derek Fieldhouse. “It was really interesting; there were mainly business people there who were really serious about the machines. It was a bit of a mystery to us beforehand, but the number of people who are offering photography and printing at events is surprising. It’s not just weddings but major corporate events which are very buoyant these days, so there’s a major market opportunity there for us and for Citizen – and indeed for our customers.”

A BRAND & DISTRIBUTOR WORTH STICKING WITH In timely fashion, Citizen has launched a new pair of dye sub printers this month. Just announced are 8-inch and adhesive media printers in the Citizen CX-02W and CX-02S. The CX-02W is a new larger format version, producing stunning 8-inch sized prints, while the CX-02S allows its users to create innovative prints on adhesive media: or stickers to you and I.

rs oto Printe Citizen Ph nt. rs of the mome For the keepe

looking for a fast and reliable solution that can deliver outstanding results on adhesive media every time. This is an upgraded version of the original CX-02 and comes with the peace of mind of Citizen’s standard two-year warranty.

Providing plenty of scope for sales, the CX-02S can print 400 6x4-inch (10x15cm) stickers or 200 6x8-inch (15x20cm) stickers from “We had a great show with lots of positive interest a single roll of media.

Citizen is further in the Citizen dye sub printers. Events are a major teasing a new range of market opportunity for us, for Citizen – and indeed premium media, with for our customers.” details promised shortly.

In the meantime speak MD Derek Fieldhouse to PhotoXport MD While it may offer bigger prints, as Derek Fieldhouse and his team for a unit the CX-02W is no deeper than more on all of the above. As usual, the its existing CX-02 sibling at 366mm PhotoXport advantage is that it has (D) x 170mm (H), while its additional stock available in its UK warehouse width at 322mm allows the printer to and can dispatch the same day for next deliver the same print quality the brand day delivery on the UK mainland, for is renowned for, yet on a larger scale. all orders placed prior to 12pm.

Print capacity is 110 sheets per 8x12So for more details and to inch (20x30cm) media roll, with the order in the devices, make sure option to print A4 media also available. you talk to PhotoXport’s Derek It’s not only bigger that potentially at the earliest opportunity. means better, however. The printer additionally offers a new grayscale adjustment feature that gives users greater control of the printer’s colour calibration. This is said to dramatically affect the colour output and enhance Opportunity knocks: the quality of resulting prints.

Citizen’s dye sub The second new printer in the range provides an opportunity to expand CX-02S – which allows retailers to your customer base, capitalise on the surge in popularity as PhotoXport did of personalised printed stickers – is recently at the Photo pitched at those retailers and minilabs, Booth Show (stand photographers and events organisers shown on right) Bring on the ‘subs’: Two new Citizen dye sub printers announced this month in the CX-02W and CX-02S broaden the scope for sales via improvements & innovations over previous models

Both new printers offer an expansive range of printing possibilities for photo retail, plus photographers operating in the event, corporate, photo booth and wedding markets. The introduction is designed to drive opportunities for customers of Citizen and distributor PhotoXport, and further underlines the commitment of both to the photo sector.

Contact PhotoXport about Citizen printers now on 0116 2675907. Visit www.photoxport.com & www.citizen-systems.com NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | November 2019 15

BPI News Product Focus

KODAK MOMENTS ‘GIFTS’ YOU A PROFITABLE CHRISTMAS In time for prime gifting season, Kodak Moments has introduced a new DIY gifting module for its Kodak Picture Kiosks, enabling retailers to profitably capitalise on demand for instant printed gifts…

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ersonalised photo gifts have long been the real growth area when it comes to printed product – encompassing trends for ‘scrapbooking’ and customers getting hands-on when it comes to crafting a means of preserving memories.

Capitalising on such trends it makes perfect sense that Kodak Alaris’ Kodak Moments division should now enable its retail partners to profit from print by launching a new DIY gifting module for its Kodak Picture Kiosks. The pitch is that customers are provided with the ability to print and buy instore now – and assemble anytime.

This installable kiosk module is being made available to retailers and mini labs for an eminently affordable 12-month licence fee. In return retailers are provided with a streamlined process for their customers to be able to order the gifts, with easy to use templates and drag-and-drop photo input promised.

Go the DIY route: With minimal, if any, fuss on the photo retailer or minilab’s behalf, your customers can create their own photo gifts, while you collect the profits. All you need is to install Kodak Moments’ new DIY gifting module on your Kodak Picture Kiosks

A dealers’ best friend: The classic Photo Keyring is one of seven recommended photo gift options made available on launch

The resulting DIY gifting products can then be presented to the customer in fully branded Kodak Moments packaging.

DIY REVENUE BOOSTER Whether retailers are already doing well with photo gifts – or considering adding the service to their current business – there is an exciting opportunity here to increase revenue and bring in new custom. Existing Kodak Picture Kiosk equipment can be expanded upon and premium gifts upsold – with no additional labour involved on the part of the store itself. Your customer simply chooses from an array of products, makes a free print to fit whichever gifting option they’ve chosen, and then assembles it on their own.

As we wrote in BPI News September, equally new Kodak Picture Kiosk software streamlines the customer process with its easy to use templates, enabling for swift photo sizing and positioning.

The customer is presented with one purchase price, which includes the print and gift. There are seven high quality DIY photo gifting products being made available on launch. These are a 4x6-inch Acrylic Photo Frame, 4x6-inch Confetti Hearts Photo Frame, 4x6-inch Glitter Photo Frame, Photo Keyring, 4x6-inch Photo Magnet, Glass Photo Coaster and a 4x6-inch Glass Photo Frame.

To make the most of this DIY opportunity order your Kodak Kiosk DIY Gifting Module now via Tetenal on 0116 289 3644.

7 DIY gifting products at a glance: n 4x6-inch Acrylic Photo Frame – with unique high gloss hand polish to the edge and brushed finish stainless steel back; the photo or design sits behind the full depth of the acrylic n 4x6-inch Confetti Hearts Photo Frame – safety certified and filled with red hearts confetti and liquid.

Shake it up for a pretty effect! n 4x6-inch Glitter Photo Frame – described as a fun way to make images sparkle, the frame is filled with glitter and liquid and is again safety certified n Photo Keyring – as it sounds, this hard wearing brushed metal item is supplied with a Presentation Box and holds two UK passport sized photographs n 4x6-inch Photo Magnet – ideal for photos or postcards, this features an adhesive front and perforated edge so aligning the print is easy n Glass Photo Coaster – described as practically unbreakable, this is fashioned from toughened safety glass and is heat resistant, providing a black border and 80x80mm display space n 4x6-inch Glass Photo Frame – an extraordinary frame for ‘ordinary’ 6x4-inch prints, this features 4mm toughened safety glass and can be displayed in portrait or landscape fashion

Get in touch with Tetenal NOW about installing your Kodak Kiosk DIY Gifting Module before Christmas!

16 November 2019 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

NEW

Create photo gifts in minutes.

Your customers can now create quality gifts in minutes, thanks to our new Kodak Moments Kiosk DIY gifting module. It’s a great opportunity to increase sales with people-pleasing gifts.

To make the most of this photo gifting opportunity, order your Kodak Kiosk DIY Gifting Module today.

Call Tetenal on 0116 2893644 Š 2019 Kodak Moments Division, Kodak Alaris Ltd. The Kodak trademark and trade dress are used under license from Eastman Kodak Company.

BPI News Product Focus

JOIN PANASONIC’S ‘S’ CLUB TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A STRONG ALLIANCE

One of last year’s biggest talking points was the exciting L-Mount Alliance between Panasonic, Sigma and Leica – with the former adopting the latter’s L-Mount to deliver full frame Lumix S series mirrorless cameras. With a third model just unveiled to further underline Panasonic’s commitment, we examine the advantage for photo retailers & their photographer customers…

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nnovative mirrorless cameras, and particularly full frame mirrorless cameras, have prompted the majority of activity in the photo market over the past year, with manufacturers looking to outdo each other with each subsequent release for their competing camera systems. With Panasonic’s own Lumix ‘S’ series, however, there’s strength not only in numbers, but also strength in a union – namely the L-Mount Alliance, formed in conjunction with fellow specialists Leica and Sigma and unveiled at Photokina last September.

As it sounds, the alliance is based around Leica’s L-mount, also adopted

by Panasonic’s Lumix S series, while Sigma has either delivered or announced 14 directly compatible lenses (see BPI News October issue). Panasonic’s Vice President Junichiro Kitagawa originally described the adoption of the mount as ‘like a rocket for us into the high end camera business’, it leading to ‘significant growth for the DSC market’ as well as ‘additional business opportunities for all partners’. That, of course, continues to be the case, with the Lumix S series being a specialised product for professionals that merges Lumix DNA with worldwide optical technology.

Now the original Panasonic Lumix S1 and S1R – its first-ever full frame L-mount models – have been joined by the Lumix S1H, as we reported last month.

The difference between the original full frame pair is that the Lumix S1R offers 47 megapixels for ultimate stills creation, while the Lumix S1 provides 24MP for next generation photo and video creators, making it a true ‘hybrid’ product.

Other features to note include Venus Engine processor, 4K video at up to 60P, double card slot for both SD and XQD media, plus three axis tilting LCD, a large, high resolution EVF offering a quality ‘very close to human vision’, dual image stabilisation system (body IS and lens IS), and dust and

Ross Dickie’s choice: Lumix S1R

Loch-ed & loaded: Photographer Ross Dickie (pictured) admits he’s ‘blown away’ by the amount of detail the Lumix S1R delivers and its low light performance when shooting landscapes

splash-proof body with sealing on all seams to prevent moisture ingress.

Edinburgh-based photographer Ross Dickie (www.rossdickie.com) has been using the high resolution Lumix S1R and has real world experience to share. When asked what, for him, are the system’s three main selling points, build quality is the first thing he highlights. “In the hands the S1R has the feel of a professional camera. It is an absolute workhorse, and I’ve used it to shoot everything from landscapes to studio portraits. Importantly for me, I know it can handle the extremes of the Scottish climate, making it my go-to camera for every season.”

Image quality is also of paramount importance for Ross, who adds that: “The S1R is the first full-frame camera I’ve had the opportunity to work with over an extended period of time, and I’ve been blown away by both the level of detail it captures and the way it performs in low light.”

Finally, his third main selling point is lens quality. “While the range of lenses available for the S1R is still fairly limited, it is set to expand massively in the years ahead,” he notes. “Crucially, the lenses for this system produce spectacular imagery, and I’m excited to see where Panasonic take it over the coming months.”

Meanwhile, the Lumix S1 has been the preferred tool of award winning wildlife photographer Matthew Maran (matthewmaran.com). “Immediately the quality of the build is apparent as you unpack the camera,” he enthuses.

“The manual dials and controls are refreshing as keeping the layout simple is paramount for my needs as a wildlife photographer. I don’t want to miss the moment by fumbling around trying to work out settings!”

This means that the camera’s operational responses – including, of course swift auto focus – are also key to Matthew’s success. “The auto focus in tracking mode is superb,” He acknowledges. “It’s incredibly accurate

Panasonic currently offers a triple whammy of full frame mirrorless cameras in the stills-focused S1R, 18 November 2019 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Panasonic Lumix S Promotion

Matthew Maran’s choice: Lumix S1

‘Fur’ real: Wildlife photographer Matthew Maran uses the Lumix S1 and is a big fan of its images’ smooth quality and minimal noise

and once locked-on to the subject there’s no letting go, particularly with subjects moving directly towards the lens. Coupled with the shooting rate of up to 9 fps, I’m very confident the majority of frames will deliver the sharpness I require.”

Ultimately though, the S1’s high ISO performance is the real stand out feature for Matthew. “For any nature photographer, shooting at low light is one of the biggest challenges. Any marginal gain achieved with faster shutter speeds in ambient light, either before sunrise or after sunset, is most welcome. I’ve shot at ISO6400 on a number of occasions and, after reviewing the images at 100% in my studio, their smooth quality with minimal noise more than stands up to my test.”

CLOSE ENCOUNTER OF THE THIRD KIND It’s not just all about stunning stills, however. Panasonic has long focused on delivering high quality video too – and that’s certainly the case with the Lumix S1H, its third full frame mirrorless release. This is very much a professional cinema camera.

In fact, the 24.2 megapixel model is notable for being the world’s first full frame camera capable of recording 24fps video at 6K resolution in 3:2 aspect ratio. It can also manage 5.9K at 30fps in 16:9 widescreen ratio, as well as 10-bit 60p 4K/C4K. Unsurprisingly, stills shooters also get a 6K-photo mode

Peter Hamlin’s choice: Lumix S1H

– which allows for the ‘best’ image to be selected from a 30fps 6K-resolution burst, providing the equivalent of a whopping 18-megapixel image file.

Other Lumix S1H features include body integral anti shake system, 3.2-inch touch screen LCD, 1.8-inch top plate status display panel, plus compatibility with L-system lenses and accessories.

Off the back of the camera launch, a firmware development (due for availability in early 2020) has also been revealed that enables the output of maximum 5.9K/29.97p RAW video data from the Lumix S1H to an Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR monitor-recorder over HDMI. Again, this should make it even more appealing for serious videographers. As we noted last issue, SRP for the S1H is £3,599.99.

Independent film maker and director Peter Hamlin (hamlinimagery.com) has been one of the first professionals to make extended use of the Lumix S1H and says: “I think what is exciting about the S1H is that here is a small form factor camera that has complemented my process perfectly, with no compromise in quality.” Peter’s creative process is that he shoots anamorphic with vintage Cineovision lenses to achieve a dated-looking aesthetic and “something that feels a little bit lost in time.” The S1H has aided his creative quest, he adds, due to the camera’s more than 14 stops of dynamic range “allowing for great scope in the [image] grade;

Cable guy: Director Peter Hamlin is filming with the newest Lumix S1H and is ‘excited’ by its small form factor complementing his creative process

it really did exceed expectations.”

In addition a new Lumix S Pro 2470mm f/2.8 lens (below) for Panasonic’s L-mount cameras went on sale at the end of September for £2,249.99 SRP and, in being suitable for shooting a wide range of subjects (in a wide range of conditions), it features a rugged dust and splash resistant build – just like the cameras themselves.

In terms of accessory support for the system, it’s worth noting that Panasonic now has 10 directly compatible L-mount lenses of its own, while there are over 45 L-Mount interchangeable lenses in total available in conjunction with those from Leica and Sigma. And of course L-mount adapters extend creative possibilities even further for your photographer customers.

It all adds up to a Lumix S system worth further investigation, whether you’re a professional photographer, filmmaker, or, like the cameras themselves, someone whose professional life involves a combination of the two. www.panasonic.co.uk

the hybrid stills & video S1 plus the newest S1H cinema camera. For more see www.panasonic.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2019 19

BPI News Product Focus

DPS GROUP ENCOURAGES YOU TO AIM BIG WITH EPSON With December availability promised, retailers looking to aim big this Christmas can broaden their horizons with Epson’s latest SC-P7500 and SC-P9500 large format printers – that’s the message from re-seller the DPS Group

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he busiest season of the year for anyone in retail is coming up fast – so now is very definitely the time for those in the photo trade to make sure they’re suitably equipped to make the most of any opportunities.

“If you’ve been thinking of adding a wide format printer to your set up for a while, to meet demand or expand your customer base, then last month’s announcement of two new Epson offerings in the 24-inch SC-P7500 and the 44-inch SC-P9500 should have you sitting up and taking notice,” enthuses Maneesh Patel, Managing Director of Epson re-seller the DPS Group.

As we learnt last issue, both of the manufacturer’s ‘big beasts’ offer the ability to print on fine art paper, canvases, photo paper and more. They’re very much workhorse devices, boasting a solid, proven build, with Epson itself proudly claiming they set a new benchmark.

Part of this is down to the SC-P7500 and SC-P9500’s deployment of a 12 colour Ultrachrome Pro ink set with K3 technology, which, conveniently, can be individually replaced if they run low.

Top: The DPS Group is offering up Epson’s new wide format printers in the SC-P7500 (left) & even larger SC-P9500 (right)

print heads use up to 800 nozzles for each colour to produce accurate dot placement and eliminate misprints, while printing up to 4.3x faster.

FASTER, MORE ACCURATE & MORE EFFICIENT Furthermore, the SC-P7500 and its bigger brother in the SC-P9500 are almost completely sealed to prevent any

“If you’ve been thinking of adding a wide format printer to your set up for a while, then two new Epson offerings in the 24-inch SC-P7500 and the 44-inch SC-P9500 should have you sitting up and taking notice.”

DSP Group MD Maneesh Patel The promise is that these inks – like the printers, available directly via the DPS Group – offer exceptional dynamic range, meaning that there’s no more choosing between ink sets. The devices’

Left: Both printers feature a larger 4.3-inch usercustomisable touch screen

possible intrusion of dust via their front and back covers. That said there’s the ability for operators to still access the print head, if needed, for maintenance purposes. A quicker change of media is promised too, thanks to a new auto feed mechanism, while a newly installed 4.3-inch touch screen further improves usability this time around. The user can also customise the screen’s background colour and layout if so desired.

“In short, whichever of the new printers you choose it all adds up to exciting new business potential for our customers,” confirms DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel. “Don’t forget that we are also able to offer you the complete solution – in supplying inks and media too.”

Interested parties are strongly advised

At a glance: Epson SC-P7500 & SC-P9500 n Epson’s first ever 12-colour ink set, claiming to deliver its widest ever colour gamut with 99% Pantone coverage for increased accuracy n Advanced print heads use up to 800 nozzles for each colour n High speed & quality are combined, thanks to a μTFP12 print head with 300dpi resolution and 12 channels n 4.3-inch touch panel LCD with a range of configuration options n Deeper blacks achieved through black enhancement over-coating technology which results in even more striking and dramatic prints n Support is given for fine art papers, canvases, photo paper and more

to book a demo with the DPS Group in their Kent showroom, or simply make a call in order to chat through prices and the bespoke options the re-seller can tailor to your business.

So don’t miss out on the opportunity to take your income to the next level in the run up to Christmas.

Contact sales@dpsb.co.uk or call 020 8466 7230 now. www.thedpsgroup.co.uk www.dpsb.co.uk

Book an Epson large format demo with DPS Group now on 020 8460 3690, email sales@dpsb.co.uk or visit www.dpsb.co.uk 20 November 2019 | BPI News

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BPI News Product Focus

‘OVER 125 PHOTO RETAILERS HAVE ALREADY SWITCHED TO ULTIMAT’ Offering UK manufactured frames and mounts straight from stock with no minimum order quantity in a range of customisable and standard sizes, MD Dru Cook explains why a growing number of retailers are switching to Ultimat

T

he range of ready-made frames and mounts manufactured by Ultimat goes from strength to strength. Based in Wokingham, Berkshire, Managing Director Dru Cook tells us that the specialist’s market share has doubled each year for the past three years. The range was launched in 2016, born out of a lack of choice and design, particularly from UK based manufacturers.

Rather than looking just to reproduce what already existed in the marketplace, Ultimat decided on a different approach, concentrating on how the product would appear on the shelf, along, of course, with the important considerations of quality and price.

Each frame finish has been paired with an optional colour-matching double mount, encouraging an easy up-sell.

Dru believes that he has a strong proposition on his hands, in that it’s “UK manufactured, better designed, better quality, there’s no minimum order quantity and it’s supplied from stock. Simple!” No wonder then that the MD adds that over 125 photo retailers have already switched to Ultimat.

MULTI MEANS MORE SALES A selection of multi-aperture frames was added to Ultimat’s offerings earlier this year. Following the premise of the original products, each is supplied with a colour-matched mount.

Photographic blocks are the latest addition to entice photographic retailers. Offering the potential of a high-margin, these self-adhesive blocks are supplied to the trade in a range of sizes and edge finishes, all ready to have a photograph applied in store.

For those who do want to add value and increase margin, Dru adds that Ultimat’s range of ready-made frames and mounts are available in any custom size, giving the

It’s the dog’s...

Ultimat’s USP is that its photographic blocks, frames and mounts (as shown) are all UK designed and manufactured.

Additionally, its ranges are available in custom sizes. Get in touch now to place an order!

opportunity for retailers to offer a more bespoke framing service, cost effectively and efficiently. Custom frame sizes are supplied in just five working days, giving retailers plenty of opportunity to assemble customers’ artwork in a reasonable turnaround time, when compared to dedicated high street picture framers.

With the above in mind Ultimat is anticipating 2020 to be yet another bumper year, promising its largest launch of new products to date will be showcased at the Spring Fair in February at the NEC, Birmingham.

For further information and to place your own order, contact the sales office on 01344 383035, or representative Doug Morgan on 07706 289522. Alternatively email sales@ultimatframes.com or doug@ultimatframes.com www.ultimatframes.com

At a glance: Ultimat’s ultimate advantage n UK manufactured product n No minimum order quantity n All ready-made frame and mount ranges available in custom sizes n 22 standard sizes are available from stock n 14 frame finishes and growing – manufactured from solid wood and from sustainable resources n Full colour insert sheets n Barcoded for EPOS systems

Grow your business! Place an order for Ultimat frames & mounts now on 01344 383035 or email sales@ultimatframes.com @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2019 21

Minilab News

INDEPENDENT IN A GREAT ‘STAIT’ WITH FUJIFILM With two shops in Hexham and Morpeth, Fujifilm Print Services partner Ken Stait of Stait Photography thinks he’s got it cracked – turning 85% of his business over to print fulfilment.

BPI News learns how this partnership is, as a result, witnessing increased profits

R

unning a business begun by his father back in 1953, there’s no doubt Ken Stait has witnessed some seismic changes – and indeed been prompted to implement some fairly major changes himself – since he joined the family firm back in the early 1980s. Not moving with the times is obviously something that can hold businesses back – but not Ken’s, who has wholly embraced his threeyear-old partnership with Fujifilm Print Services – installing two DX100 printers and seven front-of-house kiosks across his two stores in Northumbrian market towns Morpeth and Hexham, which he describes as “a winning formula”. On top of this, a number of Ken’s staff have recently attended workshops at Fujifilm’s Bedford HQ. Having a comfortable number of kiosks is something seen as necessary to promote trade. Ken wants his customers to feel they can come into his shops and spend time selecting and creating the photo gifts, without feeling intimidated or harried by the surroundings.

“We’ve got a good customer demographic and a nice wide catchment area,” Ken says of his set up. “You get customer loyalty in market towns like Hexham and Morpeth and customer service wins through. We

MAKE YOUR STORE A DESTINATION

Double whammy: Ken Stait has the advantage of owning two photo stores; one in Morpeth (shown above) and the other in Hexham (page opposite). Having a near identical Fujifilm set up in each allows him to move staff freely between both

switched to Fujifilm three-and-a-half years ago and it was the best thing we did. Their back office, which is there to support you, is so flexible.

“If you’ve got items you want to introduce to the marketplace – like printing on slates or photo cushions – the attitude from their software people is ‘yes, we can do it, no problem; give us a week or two and we’ll get it on the kiosks so you’re ready to roll.’

Ken has a similar Fujifilm set up in both stores. This allows him to move staff freely between the two premises, as they’re already up to speed on how everything works. “We’ve got four kiosks in Morpeth and three kiosks in Hexham. And the more kiosks that you have, the more of a destination you become, because people feel that they’ve got ‘dwell’ time and they’re more likely to be able to jump on a machine and spend time doing their order without feeling that there’s someone standing behind them waiting.

“It’s about giving the customer the opportunity to do it themselves. A lot of independent retailers like to get involved and press this and that for them, whereas I think a little bit of ‘tough love’ works better. Thankfully, it’s a really good system that Fujifilm has got on the kiosks and very flexible.”

When asked which are his most popular printed products, Ken responds that part of the battle is explaining to the customer the wealth of choice available.

“Back in the day you had 6x4-inch prints and maybe a few other items you were promoting – but now you’ve got so much.

Photo slates and cushions are doing really well. And it’s not just seasonal. As long as you’ve got photo gifts well displayed, sales seem to tick along throughout the year,

Switching to Fujifilm was the best thing we did. It’s minimum fuss and maximum help, which is really good, because as a small business you need your partner to step up to the plate and say ‘we can do that for you.”

Ken Stait, MD Stait Photography

The frame game: Owner Ken Stait is happy to have refocused his business so that a whopping 85% of it is based on print

“It’s minimum fuss and maximum help, which is really good, because as a small business you haven’t got that resource yourself. You need your partner to step up to the plate and say ‘we can do that for you,’ so you can concentrate on putting money in the till. Fujifilm are there to support you in giving you the right products and getting them onto the kiosks so that customers can find them.”

rather than just peaking at Christmas.”

That said, the retailer admits the festive season ‘does go absolutely crazy’, and with healthy margins on the prints and products, it’s still “a really great time of year for us. You’ve got to start a lot earlier and be prepared a lot quicker to maximise on it, because people start to look a lot earlier. The first week of November we’ll get our Christmas window together, or start adding Christmas elements in. But

To discover how Fujifilm can inspire ideas and help boost the profile and bottom line of your own store or minilab, 22 November 2019 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Fujifilm advertorial the trickiest thing is getting the message across to the customer about exactly what you do within the store – and it’s about trying to get all those elements over in such a way that doesn’t look too cluttered, or like you’re ‘shouting’. I’m looking at digital signage a little more earnestly for next year, as another way to convey what we can do with people’s images. The travel industry are using them a lot and I think it’s something the photo industry could get into, because it’s very visual and allows you to get several messages over in a classy way, as opposed to having 25 posters in your window.”

Like many Fujifilm retailer partners, Ken Stait and his team have enjoyed visits from the brand’s business adviser Wendy Gray, whose help he highly rates.

“Wendy has credibility because she’s running her own business, as well as an understanding of where your issues and pinch points are in the business.

Armed with that knowledge, she can come up with constructive techniques to move your sales figures. You need to understand where you’re at, what your business is doing, where you want to go and how you’re going to get there – as well as tracking your performance.”

As part of this proactive push, the

Wonder-ful: Recent store re-fits have been inspired by Fujifilm’s Wonder Photo Store concept, with wood floors and brick effect wallpaper helping print options to really stand out to customers

Local loyalty: Stait Photography has been trading in Northumberland for 60+ years, having been established by Ken’s father way back in 1953, as shown

retailer has re-fitted his stores in soft colours, shabby chic whitewashed wood, brick-effect wallpaper and good lighting to make it more ‘female friendly’, and has additionally had a new website built to improve its compatibility with mobile devices. Ken adds that he was able to take advantage of the ‘Wix’ website building package that was promoted at Fujifilm’s Dealer Conference in May. “Customers are increasingly wanting to use their mobile phones, so we needed to be more mobile friendly,” he reasons. “You’ve got to be available on all channels and reach out to your customers to raise awareness. We’ve been going since 1953 but still get people coming into the shop and saying ‘oh, I didn’t realise you were here.’ It just shows that there are still challenges in getting people through the door!

We’re doing Facebook competitions and bits and pieces on Twitter, but it’s also about finding the staff who are ready to get stuck into the social media aspect because you need to have a dedicated person who is on the ball and watching what is happening in order to capitalise on it. Fujifilm are talking about putting

on a social media workshop, so we’re always looking to improve our skills!”

As regards the re-fit, Ken reckons that having old-fashioned wooden units filled with cameras is a thing of the past. “We’ve been looking to make Stait Photography a less tech-y environment.

It’s a bit intimidating for someone who is just looking to make a few prints when you see walls full of cameras. So now we’re an open and welcoming, brightly lit creative environment, which gets a whole new type of customer through the door.

“Profits are better too because there is a good healthy margin on print. Getting away from just selling equipment is definitely the thing to do when there’s less and less people buying on the high street. Through necessity you’ve got to find business somewhere, so we’ve turned our efforts towards that market to the extent that print is now a huge 85% of our business.”

To learn more about how Fujifilm Print Services can help advise, inspire and improve your own business and turnover, get in touch with Marketing Manager Gloria McCann now on 01234 572138 and visit www.fujifilmphotoservices.co.uk

get in touch with Fujifilm’s Marketing Manager Gloria McCann on 01234 572138 or view www.fujifilmphotoservices.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2019 23

News

MAJOR MANUFACTURERS CONFIRMED FOR ‘TPS’ 2020

NIKON UNVEILS FUTURE LENS ROADMAP

With 32,000 visitors claimed to have attended the last TPS, organisers will be hoping for more of the same

Despite the news last month of Nikon, Olympus and Leica dropping out of Photokina 2020, the outlook appears slightly more favourable for The Photography Show, taking place next March. Organisers of ‘TPS’ have confirmed to BPI News that “despite pressure on the industry from the rise of camera phones” companies returning to Birmingham’s NEC include Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, Sony, Fujifilm and Olympus, who will be joined by familiar names including Sigma, Samyang, Epson, Hasselblad, Joby, Manfrotto, Zeiss, Profoto and Atomos. Once again, Future is hosting a ‘Video Show’ element within the same venue. Exhibiting here will be Sennheiser, DJI, AKM Music, Blackmagic Design and Benro.

Jonny Sullens, Future’s Head of Events adds: “Planning for the 2020 event is

24 November 2019 | BPI News

well underway and we’re delighted that the industry’s key players have already booked their spots, particularly considering the revolution that the camera market is currently experiencing.

The Photography Show has always been an inspirational event and the addition of The Video Show has only added to the buzz at The NEC over four days. We’re excited to welcome experienced and budding photographers and filmmakers to Birmingham in March for what will undoubtedly be another fantastic event.”

The dates next year are slightly earlier in the month, with the show running March 14th to 17th, 2020.

Tickets go on sale to the general public this month. Head to the below URL to register as a member of the trade. www.photographyshow.com

As touched on in our page 6 news article, the photo giant has shared a new lens roadmap for its ever growing ‘Z’ series that reveals 13 new lenses scheduled to arrive by 2021. Forthcoming S-Line lenses – Nikon’s name for its optics directly compatible with its full frame Z cameras – include 20mm f/1.8 and 50mm f/1.2 prime lenses, 28mm and 40mm compact prime lenses, plus 60mm and 105mm micro lenses. Forthcoming zooms under development for the series include a 14-24mm f/2.8, 70-200mm f/2.8, 24-105mm, 100-400mm, 24-200mm, 200-600mm, plus, for the new APS-C sensor Z 50 (see also page 6), there’s a DX format 18-140mm lens on the way. More news on eventual lens pricing and availability as we have it! www.nikon.co.uk

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Business Advice

Think of velvet handcuffs and you may imagine a scene from Fifty Shades of Grey (no, we haven’t read/seen it either). But, in fact, business expert Adam Bernstein insists that placing a metaphorical pair around the wrists of your best staff could be one of the best business decisions you ever make…

W

e’re in an age where technology has disrupted – some may say ‘evolved’ – retail markets beyond all belief. Combined with the ever-increasing push by consumers for more for less, some firms have swallowed others as they pursue lower costs and the maximisation of profit.

So where does this leave the independent retailer and specifically the photographic independent? Well, the answer you get will inevitably depend on whom you ask. Ask some what photography means

to them and they’ll grunt and point to their smartphone. But speak to others and you’ll find having the right people, knowledge and service is still king.

Consider the second bout of trouble that a certain high street chain is currently going through. Some would argue that the problem is that it’s a box shifter with no true specialism or genuine expertise; that it lacks the feeling that it’s staffed by individuals who know exactly what they’re talking about.

This leaves a space for the smaller

independent to not just survive but thrive.

Knowledge won over many years of trading is power: especially when dedicated photographic products have become more specialised, higher priced and arguably more niche with it. The reality is that customers ‘buy people not products’. Think about it: if you find two identical products at similar prices, then who do you buy from?

You’d buy from the person you like, who may not necessarily be the cheapest.

Got an idea for a photo trade-related business issue you’d like us to cover? Let us know direct via info@bpinews.co.uk 26 November 2019 | BPI News

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Business Advice DRESS THE PART Customers want to feel reassured that they’re not being sold a pup, that a product will work as described, and that they can ask questions and get suitable answers back without being made to feel stupid.

Even John Lewis, the former gold standard of retailing, has seen its halo slip.

Once it was possible to dial a store and speak to an expert on the shop floor (Mr Cook… your Mac Pro advice has saved me from countless viruses and hacks, but has cost me a fortune in Apple kit over the years). Now, more often, we get to speak to a call centre and hope that the staff member taking our call knows what the product is, let alone how it works.

Pressing home the point that it’s people that make a business, I can still fondly recall being served by a ruddy-faced staff member in his early 60s on the shop floor of the lighting department, notable for being perfectly turned out in a grey pinstripe suit, double cuff shirt, Windsor knotted tie, polished black brogues and not a hair out of place.

In many businesses now, however, staff are dressed down in trainers, black jeans and black polo shirts or T-shirts. While they may be trying to ape the relaxed air of an Apple Store, the problem is that the only thing that marks out someone as a member of staff, there to help the customer, is their name badge – and often that’s not obvious. Perhaps in such cases the brand has been forced to box shift and cheapen itself. We’ve mentioned it before, but while ties and pinstripe suits may remain optional (unless we’re talking about a gentleman tailors), investing in some form of ‘uniform’ for your staff – even if it’s only tops branded with your store logo – can help create a sense of identity and impart an air of professionalism to your customers.

The lesson here for the trade is very simple. Know the product, know the customer, treat them as you’d like to be treated yourself and offer the best price and service possible, but also look the part with it, and you’ll be head and shoulders above the rest. Essentially, give customers a reason to buy from you rather than just treat your shop as an exhibition space.

VELVET HANDCUFFS But to do this means having – and keeping – the best staff possible; those with years of experience, whom customers can place their confidence and trust in. While everyone should be treated equally, there is a case for keeping hold of those members of staff with more years under their belt

than fingers and toes. Experience and knowledge take time to accumulate – and can be expensive to replace.

According to Acas, the government’s conciliation service, the average cost of replacing a member of staff can be more than £30,000. The analysis from Oxford Economics found that by far the greatest expense, more than £25,000, comes from loss of productivity caused by the time it takes – 28 weeks on average – for a new recruit to get up to speed. The remaining costs arise from the logistics of finding a replacement. This includes agency fees, advertising costs, HR and management time, and the possibility of hiring temps before the new staff started in the role.

Beyond that, an employee’s departure can have an effect on morale of those that remain, may lead to other resignations if staff feel loyalty to the departed, and may even result in customers following the departed employee to their new place of work. Customers can be very loyal.

Put simply, the suggestion is that each time a key employee quits, a large chunk of business profitability leaves and will never be seen again. However by deploying ‘velvet handcuffs’ it’s possible to make employees think that a business is so attractive that they don’t want to move on elsewhere. Unless a business is using the ‘warm body’ approach, they’ll leave themselves open to the time, effort and expense of fresh recruitment.

Most employees – those who aren’t direct stakeholders in the business – will be constantly running a mental calculation of the merits of staying or leaving. Of course, each will be using different metrics, but no doubt factors influencing their decision will be a combination of money, environment, people, culture, perks, career progression, management style and personal factors.

The first crucial task for a business is to hire correctly in the first place. The fit between employee and job(s) and the business culture must be right. If this isn’t attended to, then either the employee will leave, or will stay and create problems within the business until they’re fired. This isn’t good for anyone. Whatever happens, a bad fit is expensive no matter how it’s looked at.

Just as time is spent in hiring a member of staff, so time should equally be spent inducting them into the company.

Whether it’s a few hours or few weeks (depending on the company size and the role), being properly introduced and shown around rather than being thrown into the deep end is the right thing to do. It’s important to not lose sight that that induction is where an employee learns about the policies and procedures of the business.

In terms of a velvet handcuff – the retaining mechanism – there is ‘no one size fits all’ solution – as we noted earlier, people have different motivating factors when running the go/no-go calculation.

All an employer can ever hope to do is create a number of options from which employees can draw solace, comfort and value. Remember, velvet handcuffs are a metaphorical way of locking valued staff into the business. So what form can such gentle ‘handcuffs’ take?

Money. Let’s face it, unless there is private wealth involved, we all work for money. But that won’t maintain interest for long, as staff become used to what they receive or find that they lose too much in tax. The reality is that pay should be fair and competitive considering the person and the job they’re being asked to do. Correctly set pay won’t stop departures, but it could be one reason less to move if it’s good.

Career. Few want to stay static at work as that can become monotonous very quickly. They’ll invariably want to see some way to rise through the ranks. This might mean moving from assistant to supervisor to manager or learning new skills – IT, finance, negotiation and so on.

These options should be on the horizon for employees. If they see nowhere to go, then a move elsewhere is inevitable.

One potentially short-term solution could be to send staff to trade shows to glean information that will help the business.

Flexibility. Flexible working for most is necessity. Employees need time for the doctor, childcare, or other personal and private matters. Just a little flexibility – via flexi time, better holidays or a job share – can make an employer seem so much more valued to an employee. And best of all for the business, if flexibility is offered and managed correctly, it needn’t cost very much at all.

Recognition. This costs little but can mean much to many employees; everyone likes to receive praise and recognition… the feeling that they count and are noticed. Many retail firms run ‘employee of the month’ type schemes which give an opportunity for every employee to have a deserved 15 minutes in the spotlight.

Managers should be actively looking for opportunities to praise employees for a job well done; it’s surprising the difference acknowledgement can make to staff morale. And it’s especially important to reward positive comments from customers.

Ultimately, no matter the challenges facing our industry and the retail and manufacturing sectors in general, independents have a future. But they need to not only look after the customer, but also one of their biggest assets: their staff.

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | November 2019 27

END THE YEAR ON A HIGH WITH BPI

ll a h c a e R the UK de ra photo tne via o e. n ma gazi

… Just one combined Dec/Jan issue left to advertise in, before we return in February 2020!

The days are shorter, the nights are longer… so you should be working doubly hard to get your products noticed, stocked and sold in order to maximise the potential of this prime trading period! Luckily BPI News can help, allowing your

message to reach the entire photo trade via one publication. Please note our next issue is the big one – our annual combined December and January edition – meaning you’ll want to get your booking in by Nov 21st to secure a space!

Get the best return on investment by advertising in BPI News. Contact gavin@bpinews.co.uk

CAPTURE A FRESH PERSPECTIVE 14 - 17 MARCH 2020

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News

FUJIFILM’S PRINT CAST OF THOUSANDS As trailered in our past couple of issues, Fujifilm’s ‘My Life’ crowdsourced photographic print exhibition took place at London’s Truman Brewery over four days last month.

The commendably proactive idea was to highlight that photos are worth printing – with a whopping 11,000 images showcased over two warehouse-sized spaces. Over 7,000 of these were from UK entrants alone, according to Fuji. Cutting the ribbon on the opening night were, left to right in our main image: Fujifilm UK General Manager Photo Imaging Neill Harris, Zoe Bailie from charity The Mix (who received a £2.50 donation from Fuji for every image featured), Fujifilm UK MD Yoshitaka Nakamura (previously interviewed in BPI News Sept 2018), plus Hiromoto Matsushima, Senior Vice President Photo Imaging, Fujifilm Europe.

Fuji tells us its photo exhibitions were first held in Japan in 2006, and in recent years have been held worldwide to promote the “value of photography” and the importance of taking photos and printing them out. This is the first time such an exhibition has appeared in the UK. fujifilm-printlife.eu/London

CameraWorld Director retires

Hot on the heels of the independent retailer’s third CameraWorld Live consumer show in London last month, its Director Tony Stent – a core part of the business with Managing Director Jason Mitchell since it began trading nearly 20 years ago – has decided to hang up his hat.

In total, Tony tells us he has spent a whopping 50 years in the photo trade, adding: “It’s been a pleasure working with many hundreds of people over the decades. The trade has been special to me and I have had a wonderful time… including over 20 Photokinas!”

Tony tells us that he intends to spend his immediate future “on the beach”. At BPI News, we wish him all the best. www.cameraworld.co.uk

DNP unveils new printer, ID software & e-commerce site DNP Photo Imaging Europe is introducing a new dye sub printer this December for both events use and what it describes as non-specialist retailers who might want to add an ID photo service to their business. The QW410 is compact at half the size of the DS620 model, weighs ‘only’ 6Kg, and is designed to deliver high quality photo prints instantly, everywhere. There are two media formats offered in 4x6-inches and 4.5x8-inches, and it can handle two grades of media: Premium media with a higher glossiness or thickness; or more cost effective Digital media. Power consumption has been reduced by 35% compared to the DS620 and if opting for an external battery – not sold by DNP – it can print for more than one hour without mains electricity.

In addition DNP has announced a software version 1.3.33.3 update for its ID+ Photo Identity System. Downloadable

direct from www.dnpphoto.eu, it includes various bug fixes along with a Quick Workflow update – reducing the number of steps required when making Identity Photos – and, most interestingly of all, UK ePassport features. It notes that a licence purchase is required to use this latter feature and advises contacting your DNP sales rep for more.

In related news, DNP partners with a client account can now make orders direct from its new e-commerce website, launched at the start of last month.

The site provides the ability to check order status, track orders, download invoices and consult previous e-orders.

An email from eorder@dnpphoto.eu has been sent to the addresses for each client account containing a link to access the website and create a password.

Finally, DNP PIE, a subsidiary of the DNP group, has acquired a major player

Box of dye sub delights: DNP’s QW410 has been designed to provide the ultimate in instant photo printing portability

in French tourist, amusement and event photography. Photopointcom already has operations at some of the most prestigious tourist sites in France including the Eiffel Tower, and is said to photograph 3.2 million visitors every year. The idea is that the new acquisition accelerates DNP’s momentum in the event photo business.

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 30 November 2019 | BPI News

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The first 4.5-inch dye-sublimation printer in the DNP range is especially designed for event photographers who need to produce high-quality photo prints instantly, wherever they are! Nomadic, the QW410 also makes it possible to design smaller and easier-to-carry photo kiosks. Furthermore, for retailers, the space-saver QW410 is the perfect printer to develop a profitable ID photo service as a complementary business.

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