British Photographic Industry News November 2022

Photographic British

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NOVEMBER 2022 • £5

Putting the photo trade in the picture for over 35 years

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PHOTOGRAPHY’S NEW DAWN A bumper batch of cameras, lenses & accessories arrive this month from the majors to boost pre-Christmas sales & add fuel to Black Friday. Plus the latest photo printing innovations showcased

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RD AWA 22 20 NEW KIT BONANZA

PHOTO SHOW REPORT

BPI AWARD WINNERS

BUSINESS ADVICE

A curated focus on innovative new gear from Canon, Leica, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, Sony, Tamron and OM Digital Solutions to inspire our trade

We brief you on three days at the NEC as The Photography Show returned to its post-Covid September slot, revealing why it’s all change again for 2024

Who has won what in our annual BPI News Trade Awards for 2022, as voted by you, the reader? Open your issue now to discover the names in the frame

How to make the best of the boost the annual Black Friday sales bonanza can bring to your sales, even in uncertain and challenging times for the trade

AS “THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW” REPOSITIONS TO 2024

WE’RE NOW THE ONLY UK PHOTO SHOW IN 2023 CAN YOU AFFORD TO MISS EXHIBITING WITH US?

& London Photo Show

Full Convention: Wednesday 15 – Saturday 18 March FREE* Trade Show Dates: Thursday 16 – Saturday 18 March Venue: Novotel London West Hammersmith, W6 8DR

MEET 1,000’S OF PHOTOGRAPHERS AND POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS AT EUROPE’S LARGEST PHOTO CONVENTION AND TRADE SHOW We are committed to ensuring that your company will find great value in working with The Societies of Photographers.

The Societies have been running successful events and for the last 20 years we have ran the largest photographic Convention in Europe.

Key reasons to exhibit at the 2023 London Photo Convention Don’t get left behind This is a great opportunity to launch your company into the New Year by showcasing your products and services. This event takes place before any other industry show in 2023.

Meet your customers Network with over 10,000 industry specialists and photographers who are looking to make informed decisions on which kit and services to invest in.

Refine your strategy Gain invaluable market insight by speaking to the people who are going to be using your products and services. Find out what they expect and how you could expand your client base.

Raise your profile Join a highly targeted and integrated visitor campaign reaching in a excess of a million contacts and maximise your brand exposure in the photographic industry.

The Convention is supported by the majority of the leading photographic companies in the UK including: Sony, FujiFilm, Epson, Park Cameras, Camera Centre UK and Photomart to name a few.

You can exhibit from just £999 (+VAT) for the three-day show. Call us today to find out more 01745 356935 or email info@thesocieties.net

thesocieties.net/convention/

REGISTER TODAY FOR YOUR FREE TRADE SHOW TICKETS.*

Attend The Societies 2023 London Photographic Trade Show for FREE* NOW IN IT

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20TH

All the latest photographic equipment, products and services YEAR! will be on show, and attendees will be able to watch demonstrations from leading manufacturers on their products.

All the major players in the industry will be exhibiting, so it’s a good opportunity to meet the key personnel behind the latest photography equipment.

Many of the 100+ brands exhibited will also be offering special deals on their products and services, exclusive to the show with Park Cameras and Camera Centre UK the main supporting dealers.

Register today to secure your FREE tickets to the 2023 Trade Show for yourself and staff.

CALL TO ACTION SCAN ME TO DOWNLOAD THE 2023 CONVENTION EXHIBITION PROPOSAL

Open to all from aspiring to pro...

Put the dates in your diary now

*Visitors can Pre-register before 1 Feb 2023 for FREE and avoid £10 entry fee to Trade Show.

Editorial | November 2022

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Photographic British

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Published monthly by

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

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

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

BPI News is a member of

ith The Photography Show confirmed as a ‘no show’ for 2023, as it reverts back to its former March slot for 2024, The Societies’ London Convention & Trade Show is now the ‘only game in town’ for next year, as concerns larger scale industry exhibitions. The Societies had its usual stand at ‘TPS’ this September just gone – see page 12 of this issue for our full report and debrief – and, with TPS now returning to the same March slot that The Societies currently occupies, it will be interesting to observe how both shows evolve and adapt going forward. At one time, taking a year off would have been unthinkable – given the pace at which technology evolves, and with a backwards glance at what happened to Photokina.

But the enforced delays and unavoidable postponements of the past few years have ripped up the rulebook. In fact the old rules no longer apply; now it’s about building in some flexibility in order to pivot in response to the unexpected.

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

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Main cover image: The new Fujifilm X-T5 has arrived, updating the very popular X-T4.

Turn to page 5 for all the main selling points to share with your customers

For we continue to live in interesting times. Since we last sent the magazine to press in September we’ve witnessed a change of Monarch, plus the farce of no fewer than three different Prime Minsters. Any writer of fiction would have shook their head at such a scenario, thinking it too far fetched. And yet here we are, dealing with the consequences of a disastrous mini budget by Number 10’s previous incumbent, on top of a cost of living crisis, the fall-out from a bungled Brexit, continuing war in Ukraine and the real world cost of the Covid-19 pandemic. Our country isn’t alone in such hardships, of course, but it does at times feel like we enjoy deliberately making things hard for ourselves. So where does this leave the photo industry?

Fortunately we never stand still and a glance at this issue’s news pages reveals another tranche of titivating new products to give us hope for the future. On top of this, we bring you news of our BPI News Trade Award winners for 2022 – as voted by you, the reader (see, we believe in the people having a personal say more than our present ‘leaders’ do); an excuse to break out the bunting and streamers if ever there was one. Plus, for those looking for some certainly to anchor themselves to in the coming weeks, look no further than our forthcoming end-of-year combined December/January issue.

Get your news stories, ad bookings and advertorial requests to us by November 24th please, to see out this year and welcome the new one in, in style.

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Enjoy long-lasting lithium-ion power giving you hundreds of photos on every charge Built in over current, overheat and short circuit protection. Dependable power from the world’s #1 consumer battery brand.

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News

CANON FULLY LOADED Claiming the “EOS R system is based on a unique understanding of our customers and the future,” the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is set to retail at a body-only £2779.99.

With the new camera (and lens which we’ll get to in a moment), the EOS R range will comprise 11 bodies and 31 lenses by the year’s end. The latest iteration is said to “take everything that was good about the R6 and make it better”. This includes the fastest full frame continuous shooting in its class, with the camera able to shoot up to 40fps in electronic shutter mode, or 12fps with mechanical shutter. It can now also detect and track horses, aircraft and trains, plus claims to offer the world’s highest level of image stabilisation at 8 stops equivalent. With the camera boasting 4K-resolution video, Canon has added a multifunction hotshoe allowing accessory use. As we’d expect, with a magnesium alloy construction, the same level of weatherproofing as the R6 features, while a fully charged battery is said to last 800 shots. There’s also a 20% resolution increase, to 24.2 megapixels, while a high ISO performance up to ISO102,400 is maintained.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.0 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi, with Canon releasing an updated Camera Connect App (Ver 3.0.0) in tandem, featuring a re-designed interface and easier camera connection. The app can also be used as a remote.

As well as body-only sales, there are two EOS R6 Mark

II kit options: either with RF 24-205mm f/4-7.1 IS STM at £3129.99 SRP, or RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM at £3999.99 SRP. Retail is from November 29th.

Arriving December at £2449.99 SRP is a new RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM lens, said to allow for ‘incredible low light photography’ and 0.7 metres closest focusing.

Two lens function buttons plus a control ring are all customisable, while a Super Spectral Coating reduces ghosting and flare. It further boasts 5.5 stops equivalent image stabilisation or 8 stops if used with the EOS R6 Mark II. Coming February 2023 is a new Speedlite EL-5, said to be similar to the EL-1 but smaller, lighter and at a more competitive price (£499.99 SRP). Offering up to 1.2 sec recycling time, it has a Guide Number (GN) of 60 and works directly with the EOS R6 Mark II ‘s multi function shoe.

Additional features include the ability to access the flash menu from the camera back, while the flash’s joystick is customisable, enabling the camera’s modes to be linked to the flash settings.

On top of this there’s no fewer than five new 4K resolution Canon camcorders available: the pro-level XA65, XA60, XA75 (shown), XA70, plus the ‘prosumer’ targeted Legria HF G70.

All offer MP4 recording,

while the four pro camcorders add XF-AVC recording to support broadcast applications.

At £1089.99 SRP, the Legria HF G70’s features include a 4K UHD 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, 20x zoom lens, USB-C output for streaming, hybrid AF, plus oversampled HD processing. Likewise incorporating a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor are the XA65 (£2089.99 SRP) and XA60 (£1539.99 SRP), boasting a 20x optical zoom (40x digital), dual XLR audio input with four channel audio recording, infra red shooting support plus HDMI and USB connectivity.

Finally the XA75 (landing mid December at £2719.99 SRP) and XA70 (available mid December at £2179.99) include a one inch CMOS sensor and DIGIC DV6 processor for 4k UHD recording, 15x optical zoom (40x digital), Dual Pixel CMOS AF with face tracking, dual XLR audio input with, again, four channel audio recording, infra red shooting support and HDMI and USB connectivity.

Lastly, Canon has a new high-end ‘PTZ’ camera. The CR-N700 is designed for professional broadcast, studios and live event productions. The panning, tilting and zooming remote camera features the same intelligent AF as Canon’s EOS C70 and XF605, and includes a one inch CMOS sensor, DIGIC DV7 processor, 15x optical zoom (or 30x ‘advanced’ zoom if shooting in Full HD) plus 4K UHD 60P footage, which can be streamed if desired.

Also featuring is a Night Mode allowing operators to capture footage in near darkness.

Available this month, SRP is £9,599.99. www.canon.co.uk

TRADE ‘STRONGLY BACKING’ ONLY NATIONAL PHOTO SHOW IN 2023 With The Photography Show repositioning to 2024, it leaves The Societies’ successfully long-running London Photo Show and Convention – now in its 20th year – as the trade’s only national photo show in 2023.

The Societies’ CEO Colin Jones (pictured) reports an encouraging number of new trade exhibitors now signing up to exhibit at its event, which runs March 16-18th 2023 at London’s Hammersmith Novotel.

Trade stand packages for the 3 days are

Photographic British

Industry

£999 + VAT, with more details to be found via the inside front cover of this issue, courtesy of a QR code you can scan.

Colin also reports early strong visitor registrations from recently started advertising campaigns.

There are 100+ brands already confirmed for the trade show, backed by a full programme of free demonstrations and schedules of Masterclasses, Business Schools and Mentoring for qualifications.

Get in touch now for more details by calling 01745 356935 or emailing info@thesocieties.net Finally get your staff and key customers to register for free trade show tickets at www.thesocieties.net/convention

Supported by

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4 November 2022 | BPI News

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News

X MARKS THE SPOT FOR FUJIFILM Fujifilm X system users have a new camera in the X-T5, available in either black or silver bodies, and new lens in the XF 30mm f/2.8 R LM WR Macro.

The former boasts 40.2 million effective pixels, features an X-Processor 5, 0.5-inch OLED viewfinder at 3.69 million dots, 3-inch three-way tilting LCD touch screen at 1.84 million dots, 6.2K video at 30P, five axis in-body image stabilisation, plus SD card compliancy.

Body only is £1699 SRP, while it’s £2049 for the kit with 18-55mm lens in either colour, or £2149 for camera and 16-80mm lens. Optional accessories include an MHG-XT5 metal handgrip at £129 SRP. The lens arrives this month at £599 SRP. With a build comprised of 11 elements in nine groups including three apsherical lens elements and two ED elements, talking points here include a lightweight design, focal length equivalent to 46mm in 35mm terms, macro photography at a 1:1

magnification ratio, plus image quality said to be ‘outstanding’. Added to this, the lens is dust and weather resistant.

Finally, in time for the Christmas gifting season there’s a new Fujifilm Instax Square Link Smarphone Printer, outputting prints at 1.5x the size of its Instax mini printer counterparts. New features, including AR (Augmented Reality), are said to encourage creativity. It’s available mid November at £129.99 SRP in Ash White or Midnight Green.

In addition Fuji’s existing Instax mini 11 is being given a new pastel green colour option at £89.99 SRP. www.fujiflm.co.uk

OM-5 COMES ALIVE

A second new durable mirrorless camera from the former Olympus has arrived in the OM System OM-5 – this time bearing ‘OM System’ instead of Olympus branding.

Landing later this month in either silver or black at a body-only £1,199.99 SRP, it’s claimed to be compact and lightweight (at 366g body only), plus dust, splash and freezeproof with it. Boasting a Micro Four Thirds lens mount as usual, features include a 50MP Handheld High Res Shot option, plus support for vertical video playback on smartphones. We also get up to 7.5EV steps worth of image stabilisation via its built-in five-axis image stabiliser, 4K video shooting and compatibility with separately available accessories, including ECG-5 External Grip and RM-WR1 Wireless Remote Control. Two kits that feature the camera plus either 12-45mm f/4.0 PRO lens or 14150mm f/4.0-5.6 II lens are both priced at £1,499.99 SRP. www.om-digitalsolutions.com

NIKON GETS A GRIP The video market has a new accessory in the weather sealed Nikon MC-N10 remote grip. “This is yet another signal from Nikon that we’re intent on supplying videographers and filmmakers with the kit they need,” enthuses Nikon UK Marketing Director Julian Harvie. The weather-sealed device enables your customers to control their Nikon mirrorless camera remotely, with access given to all video settings and support offered for the Z 9, Z 7II and Z 6 II. Connection is via USB-C, and, with 2xAA batteries inserted, users can enjoy up to 12 hours of use. With sales starting December 1st, SRP is £439.

Nikon users also have a telephoto

lens arriving at the month’s end in the Nikkor Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S, set to land at a pro-level SRP of £15,499. The lens features a 1.4x teleconverter built-in, providing the equivalent of a 840mm f/5.6 lens.

“It’s like having two lenses,” marvels Julian. Key features include a ‘next level’ AF system, Nikon’s in-lens Vibration Reduction, allowing for photographers to shoot at up to 5 stops slower than they would without it, plus the manufacturer’s ‘Silky Swift’ Voice Coil Motor (SSVCM). Also featured is a ‘Meso Amorphous’ coating to control ghosting and flare, while lens construction keeps out dust and moisture.

Weight is 3,260g, which is claimed to be 20% lighter than its predecessor. A lens case, lens hood, rear cap, lens cap and strap are all included in the box. www.nikon.co.uk

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

BPI News | November 2022 5

BPI News Product Focus

A PAIR OF ‘PROS’ FROM ROTOLIGHT

The pioneering British lighting manufacturer has announced exciting new ‘Pro’ versions of its existing NEO 3 and AEOS 2 lights, delivering up to 25% more brightness for photographers and videographers alike. BPI News attended the London launch and reports back

A PROFESSIONAL HIT

©Sam Nash

New on the two ‘PRO’ models are the industry first of built-in Godox wireless flash receivers, building on existing compatibility with Elinchrom (as well as Profoto, Neewer and Pixapro), while the manufacturer says its units feature premium quality solid dials and handles very much designed to last. Users can choose from a whopping 16.7 million light colours, while, if that’s too much

Professional results literally at our fingertips with the NEO 3 PRO (above) and the AEOS 2 PRO (below) Results with the lights are shown below left and top right, courtesy of photographers and Rotolight ‘Masters of Light’ Sam Nash and Jake Hicks, respectively.

Both of which have contributed presets for the lights

choice, then 100+ exclusive ‘Masters of Light’ inspired presets also feature from professional photographers such as Jake Hicks, Sam Nash and Miguel Quiles.

Included are SFX presets designed by industry luminaries such as two-time Emmy Award winner Roy Wagner (of ‘Nightmare on Elm Street’ fame), Visual FX veteran Stefan Lange (‘Batman,’ Tomb Raider’ and ‘No Time To Die’), and 2021 Cinematographer of the Year Denson Baker (‘The Colour Room’, ‘Ophelia’, ‘The Lumineers’). There are four new selectable effects this time around: Fireworks, Candle, Disco and ‘Throb’. Added to this we have HIS/ Gel presets designed by portrait and fashion photographers Jake Hicks, Sam Nash, Jason Lanier and Martin Higgs.

Likewise integral is what Rotolight suggests is a ‘world first’ full colour touchscreen display, which lets users choose and see the above colour presets and their effects, before an image is even captured, thereby saving precious time (and money!) on a shoot.

Featuring all of the above capability, the AEOS 2 PRO is summed up by Rod as a ‘workhorse light’. A relatively lightweight 1.4Kg when compared to rivals in the market, it additionally features custom red anodised handles, true aperture dimming – thereby, says Rod, doing away with the need for a light meter – plus integrated v-lock battery plate. The option to select from 16.7 million colours or 2,500 digital filters is shared by both

©Jake Hicks

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aunched by way of an awareness generating Indiegogo campaign that began October 18th and runs for a month, the new Rotolight NEO 3 PRO and AEOS 2 PRO, for which bundles deals are available at a VATinclusive £629 and £1699 respectively, are claimed to boast up to 25% more output power than previous models, making them, claims Rotolight CEO Rod Aaron Gammons (pictured with the products), “the ultimate all-in-one lights.”

Those already in-the-know with regards to Buckinghamshire-based Rotolight will be aware of the advantage of being able to simply dial in a colour using its LEDs, thus avoiding the need to put a gel on the lights. Users can also dial in a saturation level and save it as a preset. Furthermore, with the lights ability to flash as well as act as an ambient light, we truly do have a case of one light that does it all.

the NEO 3 PRO and the AEOS 2 PRO. The standalone NEO 3 PRO is additionally described as ‘the world’s brightest on-camera LED light’, with 16 built-in special effects compared with 12 on the regular NEO 3. It looks the part too, with snazzy solid red aluminium dials.

Pro portrait photographer and Rotolight ‘Master of Light’ Jake Hicks told us at the London launch that although he was initially reluctant to move from strobes to LEDs he has been won over. He likes the versatility of having built-in flash and finds the new lights “instantly usable”. He adds: “What you see is what you get. One light really does it all. You have the ability to flash as well as have it be an ambient light.

As soon as I saw the light they provided on my subject and how that colour dropped off on the skin, it was immediately obvious it was going to make my life a lot easier.

Ultimately it all comes down to the quality of the light; you have to see it to believe it.”

Rotolight are also running numerous free ‘photo walks’ around the country, as well as additional workshops including one with ‘gel king’ Jake Hicks on the 12th November, at the time of writing.

Independent retailers should get in touch with Rotolight directly on 01753 422 750 or email sales@rotolight.com www.rotolight.com

An illuminating vision for retailers and creatives: Rotolight’s new NEO 3 PRO & AEOS 2 PRO. Discover more at www.rotolight.com 6 November 2022 | BPI News

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BPI News Product Focus

BAGS OF GREAT IDEAS FROM SNAPPERSTUFF

Photo retailers and photographer customers alike will want to make fast to secure stock of Snapperstuff’s new SpeedTop bags from Think Tank Photo, just landed in the UK in time for the busy Christmas trading period…

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ooking for a fresh take on a perennial bestseller? Enter the new SpeedTop 10 and SpeedTop 15 Crossbody Series bags from Think Tank Photo, available now to those of us in the UK via distributor Snapperstuff. Stock is newly landed, with a VAT-inclusive suggested retail price of £143 for the slim-line ‘10’ bag and £165 for the roomier ‘15’ option.

A MAGNETIC ATTRACTION FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS The thinking here is that photographers are gifted faster and easier access to their camera gear. The aptly named SpeedTop bags feature an inventive magnetic lid, affording swift and near silent opening.

Conveniently, lifting the lid requires use of just the one hand, with the bag closing securely without the need for zippers. A tuck-away security latch offers additional peace of mind when traveling through crowded public spaces, while the bags’ slim profile also benefits those in busy scenarios.

It goes without saying that both the SpeedTop 10 and SpeedTop 15 are styled to fit today’s contemporary camera systems, accommodating bodies with up to a 24-70mm lens, flash, extra lens and accessories. A padded, swift adjusting strap, plus belt pass-through, helps stabilise the bag against the user’s body, while still allowing for flexible, active movement so they don’t miss that all-important picture.

US-based Think Tank CEO and Lead Product Designer Doug Murdoch enthuses: “As photographers, we know that

An open & shut case: the slim profile SpeedTop 10 bag (top, left) and roomier SpeedTop 15 (top, right) both feature silent opening and closing thanks to a magnetic lid mechanism, with the interior volume of the ‘10’ shown just above, and that of the ‘15’ revealed below

having fast, easy and oftentimes quiet access to our camera gear is critical.

It can mean the difference between getting a shot or missing it.”

Snappersuff MD Helen Atkinson, whose background usefully encompasses pro photography and video, advises: “These bags are high quality and long lasting. As ever, we’re working close with the retailer – them telling us which cameras are working well, and us telling the retailer in return which of our gear works well with those cameras. At the end of the day it’s about both of us making a sale.”

Think Tank’s SpeedTop 10 bag can fit a standard mirrorless camera, such as, say, the Sony A7 series or Nikon Z6/ Z7, with an attached 24-70mm f/4 or 85mm f/1.4 lens if stashed vertically, or a 24-70mm f/2.8 or 70-200mm f/4 lens unattached. It can also find room for a flashgun. Interior bag dimensions are 21.5x18.5x10cm, while the exterior measures 25x22.5x14cm.

Weight is a very manageable 0.6Kg. The roomier SpeedTop 15 likewise finds space for the above cameras, or standard DSLR, such as the Nikon D780, D500 or D7500, or a Canon 5D Mark IV. Similarly it allows for the vertical stashing of the above with 24-70mm f/4 or 85mm f/1.4 lens attached, or 24-70mm f/2.8 or 70-200mm f/4 unattached. It can also fit a 70-200mm f/2.8 with foot and adapter if this is stored lengthwise.

A flash, or DJI Mavic 3 and controller, can also be accommodated. Interior bag dimensions are 28.5x20x10cm, while the exterior measures 33x23.5x14cm. Weight is just 0.8Kg.

And these bags will continue to look great for years. Like many products in the Think Tank range, the new SpeedTop bags feature abrasion resistant Cordura fabric that should stand the test of time. Fabrics are weather protected too and rain covers come included in order to protect photographer and videographers’ kit from heavy downpours. For further info on both bags head to the Snapperstuff website: www.snapperstuff.com/speedtop

Think Tank SpeedTop 10 & 15 shared features: Magnetic top lid for swift and silent access, with tuck away latch for added security Versatile carry options, thanks to quick-adjusting cross-body strap and belt pass-through, which integrates with the Think Tank Modular Belt Abrasion resistant Cordura exterior Slim profile for navigating crowds, while a flat bottom ensures the bags can be stood up straight on surfaces Inner pocket for small items, plus expandable side pockets, mesh organiser pockets under the lid and adjustable dividers Top grab handle, comfort padded back panel and seam sealed rain cover included as standard

To order in stock of any or all the above products, contact info@snapperstuff.com or call 0207 193 6769. www.snapperstuff.com www.thinktankphoto.com

To order in stock of the Think Tank Photo SpeedTop 10 and 15 bags, contact info@snapperstuff.com or call 0207 193 6769 8 November 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

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BPI News Product Focus

LEICA STAYS TRUE TO A CLASSIC WINNING FORMULA It’s been another busy month for Leica, with the return of a classic camera and vintage lens to its offerings, plus a new ‘reporter’ variant and the showcasing of winning photography entrants

W

e can always rely on Leica to have a surprise or two up its sleeve when it comes to covetable new product announcements that marry a premium build to a premium price. Now the company is bringing back an analogue classic, via an updated Leica M6, formerly something of a hit, with a claimed 175K units being produced between 1984 and 2022. “Conscious analogue photography as an antithesis to the flood of digital images is enjoying great popularity,” reasons Leica’s Executive Vice president of Technology and Operation Stefan Daniels of the return of the film shooter. Available at Leica stores and via its authorised dealer network from this month, SRP is a body only £4,500.

The second ‘new’ Leica camera this month is a ‘Reporter’ variant of the SL2-S, which joins the already released Reporter versions of the M10-P, Q2 and Q2 Monochrom. This sees the camera’s current design updated with a more robust feel and subtle design tweaks to allow, says its manufacturer, for unobtrusive photography and videography in adverse operating conditions. The all-metal body is now painted in a scratch resistant dark green described as resilient and wrapped in an ‘aramid’ fibre coating, said to provide an enhanced grip as well as protection from the elements. The distinctive red Leica dot logo has also been removed, in line with its other ‘Reporter’ editions, in order to create a more subtle finish, it adds. SRP is £4,700.

Another classic Leica product similarly making a return this year is the Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 lens, at £3,450 SRP. Originally launched in 1961 and unchanged for 35 years, this ‘king of bokeh’ has been re-launched in its original vintage design with and identical optical calculation to the first version.

Described by its maker as ‘the world’s fastest wide angle lens’, this becomes the fourth addition to the Leica Classic Line, with a stainless steel front ring, lockable focus ring and black attachable lens hood modelled on the original. A new round lens hood has also been released, with an E46 thread that enables the use of filters included with purchase.

INTERNATIONAL TALENT Staying with everything Leica related, last issue we wrote about the revealed shortlist for the Leica Oskar Barnack Award – aka ‘LOBA’ – the international photo competition which has reached its 42nd year. This month, two winners have finally been announced. They are Iranian Canadian Kiana Hayeri with her project ‘Written on the Ice, Left in the Sun’, focusing on Afghan women, which wins the main awards category, and German photographer Valentin Goppel, who wins the Newcomer category with his ‘Between the Years’ series, exploring the effect of the pandemic on young adults of his generation. The overall winner receives €40,000 and Leica equipment valued at €10,000, while the Newcomer Award winner receives €10,000 and a Leica Q2 camera.

Art Director and Chief

Return of the classics: A re-introduced Leica M6 joins a ‘Reporter’ version of its SL2-S (right) and the Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 lens, below

Representative of Leica Galleries International Karin Rehn-Kaufmann says: “Once again this year, we were impressed by the diversity and high quality of the series submitted; it was particularly delightful to see the many young participants, as well as the higher proportion of women photographers.”

For more see www.leica-oskar-barnack-award.com.

Winning streak: Overall LOBA winner Kiana Hayeri’s (left) image of Afghan women shown below

Finally, a black and white photo taken during a 1963 road trip by veteran Magnum photographer Thomas Hoepker has been chosen as the ‘Leica Picture of the Year’. The shot, taken in the middle of New York’s noisy traffic, depicts the passengers of a public bus.

The expression in their eyes, and the advertisement for a remedy for indigestion on the bus, combined to produce an ironic snapshot, Leica believes. With the aim of sharing a piece of this success with all Leica enthusiasts, each Leica Picture of the Year will be on offer exclusively at the 25 Leica Galleries worldwide for collectors to build up a unique collection of Leica’s best photographers. www.leica-camera.com

Back on sale from Leica: an updated M6, an SL2-S ‘Reporter’ variant, plus the Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 lens. Visit: www.leica-camera.com

10 November 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

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News Extra

PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW DEFIES ‘CURSE’ TO DELIVER 3-DAY EVENT

The UK photo trade and public alike flocked eagerly back to the Birmingham NEC in September. Not even the sudden death of the Queen and revolving door of Prime Ministers could overshadow a very welcome opportunity to reconnect. However, it’s all change again for 2023-2024…

W

ith The Photography Show & Video Show having shifted from its traditional March date to September for the second year running – a move originally made last year in order to stay ahead of successive Covid-19 lockdowns and subsequent lifting of restrictions – the only unexpected fly-in-the-ointment for 2022 was the Queen’s funeral coinciding with the Monday of the show.

Quickly responding, TPS’ organisers made the entirely sensible and respectful decision to cancel that day’s opening, which meant the four-day event was suddenly truncated to three. This led to a handful of exhibitors we visited on the opening Saturday independently (and wryly) observing that the show was perhaps ‘cursed’, given the large Covid-induced gap between March 2019 and September 2021 that we’d all previously experienced. But happily the general mood was upbeat, with the chance to reconnect face-to-face with customers and colleagues appreciated.

In terms of visitor numbers, while neither ourselves or the visitors and exhibitors we spoke to were expecting things to be completely back to preCovid, 2019 levels, with a quoted 250 brands exhibiting we felt the show was respectfully busy – on the Saturday at least. We were able to get to see the people and handle the products we wanted in fairly short order, without having to wait in line. Similarly, upon our arrival around 11am we were able to walk straight in and grab our laminate and printed show guide without joining a queue. In short, it worked for us and there was enough of a bustling atmosphere to give it its customary vibe.

Official feedback from the trade came via Sigma UK’s Marketing Manager Tim Berry, who is quoted by the organisers as saying at the time: “There’s a lot of positivity, people seem to be in good spirits and interested in our lenses,

which is great.” This positivity continues via feedback from Sony UK’s Event & Content Marketing Manager Mark Baber, who adds: “The show has been above what we were expecting – our stand was busy from the moment the show opened on day one. There’s nothing better than meeting face to face – we listen to our customers’ stories and help them solve challenges. That’s integral to what we do.”

As to our own responses from the trade to this year’s event, it was very much as case of ask a different person whether they’re ‘having a good show’ and we’ll get different answer every time. Given that this year’s duration was shorter than expected, one opinion raised with us was whether The Photography Show might, given the current climate, work better as a two-day event going forward. Another major exhibitor with a large stand that meant expensive staffing told us that the original March date worked better for them than September. While the shift to September may have made sense back in 2021 – particularly with the axing of Photokina – that calendar month is when many pro photographers are still booked up with weddings. Ultimately, it appears organiser Future has listened to such concerns, as the next Photography Show will now take place in March… March 2024 that is, meaning that it’s missing the whole of next year while it ‘resets’.

This inevitably means that The Societies’ annual London Convention will be the largest and only UK trade event of its type to take place in 2023 – see News this issue for more.

Asked for a quote and official reason for the switch, Group Marketing Manager for The Photography Show, Hazel Soper, tells us: “We feel that our traditional slot in March is better than September for the market overall, following feedback from and consultation with our stakeholders.”

Future’s Head of Events Jonny Sullens adds: “The next Photography Show and Video Show will take place in 18 months’

Next stop, 2024: The trade and the public alike enjoyed a return to the NEC this year, but ‘feedback and consultation with stakeholders’ sees the show miss 2023 entirely and return to its March calendar dates for the year after

time, from Saturday 16th to Tuesday 19th March 2024. Pre Covid, this was the traditional calendar slot for the show and we are delighted to be able to return to the March dateline that worked so well. We will remain in Halls 2 and 3.”

We can only hope the break and calendar move encourages a bigger, bolder and brighter return – and that the wider economy and world outlook will be brighter by then as well. Meanwhile, once again, the new ‘TPS’ dates for 2024 to ring fence in our diary are March 16th-19th, 2024. www.photographyshow.com

Dates for your diary: The Photography Show & Video Show is missing out 2023 entirely to instead return in March 2024, with another four day

12 November 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

The Photography Show 2022 Report

event scheduled for the 16th through 19th that year. Keep up to date with the latest news and developments via www.photographyshow.com

@bpi_news

BPI News | November 2022 13

BPI News Awards 2022

BPI NEWS TRADE AWARD WINNERS 2022 It’s been a year of many twists and turns, both regarding the world stage and the UK photo industry at large, as we’ve seen brands change hands and a series of mergers and acquisitions. Amidst this maelstrom, however, there are stand-out products and stand-out people, as voted by you, BPI News’ readers…

AWARDS 2022

I

n challenging times, fortune rewards those who rise to the challenge. Such is the case with our BPI News Trade Award winners for 2022 – handpicked by you, the reader. Yes, once again, it’s been a year of uncertainty and outside forces affecting the ability for the industry to

function as it would ideally like to, with issues of stock and supply throwing spanners in the works, as well as the war in Ukraine, and the long tails of Covid-19 and Brexit exacerbating a cost of living crisis affecting businesses and customers alike. Despite it all we’ve seen exciting

RETAILER OF THE YEAR:

photographic products being released to bolster sales and opportunity, while certain individuals and companies continue to be relied upon to display a continuity of excellence. Without further ado then, here are your winners…

PROMOTION OF THE YEAR:

GRAYS OF WESTMINSTER

THE SOCIETIES’ CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW 2022

WINNER PROMOTION OF THE YEAR

‘THE SOCIETIES’ CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW 2022 The Societies Convention & London Trade

Show

BPI News Extra

THE SOCIETIES WELCOME BACK TRADE

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

T

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

“I’d like to personally thank every With Juliet and Phil Jones having stepped single person that’s helped us to put back from day-to-day operations last the event on. Without everyone’s year, this one was also the first under support, it just wouldn’t be possible. I newly installed CEO Colin Jones. With look forward to welcoming you all to the latest generation of the Jones family Show and (Novo) the 2023 London Photo Convention.” tel: the photo at the helm and the trade emerging The Trade Awards saw some familiar industry returned blinking into the spring sunshine for to Hammersmith in names garlanded. Best Professional the first major trade event of the year, force to showcase Lighting went to Elinchrom (Bottom there was excited anticipation for latest products, many row, far right), while Best Professional of which picked up many, if a suck-it-and-see approach for Lab was Loxley Colour (top right of awards from The some after such a tumultuous time.

Societies’ voters spread). Best Professional Paper went to With the Trade Show taking over Permajet Museum Heritage 310 (right), one whole floor of regular venue the while the Canon EOS R5 was named Novotel in London’s Hammersmith Best Professional Camera (Bottom row, for 2022, BPI News visited on the 2nd from left). The same brand also Thursday and found exhibitors and took Best Professional Lens for its RF representatives of the photo industry 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM and Best upbeat and appreciative of being able to Professional Photo Printer for the interact with photographer customers Canon ImagePROGRAF PRO1000. and enquiring visitors face-to-face again.

Best Professional Accessory went to This was a sentiment echoed by the Photees, while Light Blue Software organisers during and following the Software.

Professional Best bagged four-day stint; with the regular awards Colin concludes: “I’d like to held on the Friday night providing congratulate all the companies who a chance to network and mingle. have won an Award, voted for by our “It was absolutely fantastic to be back members and their customers. This at the Novotel again, doing what we love is the 14th year of our trade awards, improve photographers helping doing, and they have become extremely their craft, their business and sharing popular both with the trade and with the passion of photography,” enthuses photographers who want to recognise The Societies CEO Colin Jones. these suppliers for the excellent services “It was amazing to see the show and products they bring to the industry.” bustling again, with many of the trade Next year’s dates for your diary reporting an increase in sales compared are Wednesday 15th – Saturday to the 2020 London Photo Convention.

18th March. See you there!

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

“We are delighted to receive the BPI News ‘Promotion of the Year’ award. The London Photography Convention has become a must do event for photographers looking to take their photography to the next level and see the latest products and services in the trade show. The trade support for the event is incredible, with exhibitors really getting behind to 2023 event. We’d like to RDSsupport, it WallAtheir thank BPI News and the tradeA for 2022 is truly appreciated.”

Thinking of booking space to exhibit with The

Societies for next year’s London Trade Show?

“Winning this award for the fourth year in a row is a great honour and it’s all down to our staff who are, in my view, the very best of the best.

They deliver consistently excellent, engaging and responsive service to our customers, often with a dash of humour and always with discretion.

Led by our General Manager, Becky Danese, our team are what make Grays of Westminster, Grays of Westminster! I would like to thank everyone RETAILER OF THE YEAR GRAYS OF WESTMINSTER who voted for us. We AWARDS are enormously grateful 2022 for all your support.”

WINNER Grays of Westminster

‘WE’RE LEARNING FIRST-HAND WHAT’S ON CUSTOMERS’ MINDS’

retailer Gray Levett has loyalty has ensured that Nikon-only Celebrating 35 years this July, customer loyalty is nurtured & maintained Retailer of The Year.. We hear how again been awarded our BPI News

I get to think, ‘I’m going to make sure safari.’” these lenses before I go off on my That begs the question: who is Gray’s typical customer, currently? “I don’t “We still think there is one,” he chuckles. of the get such a broad selection. A lot camera younger customers want a 35mm F3HP – like the Nikon FM2 or FM3A or reason they’re shooting fi lm for the same people are increasingly buying vinyl records. Then there are those customers their who can’t decide whether to keep ‘well why DSLR or go mirrorless. We say: series not do both?’ The glory of the Z of is that you can take full advantage F-mount lenses using the FTZ mountand adapter with your Nikon Z camera to be of course second-hand continues with a very large market for us. I hope, up major movie-making starting back more again, we’ll see a return to a lot manual-focus lenses being bought.”

Jumping ahead from the present, see where does Grays of Westminster itself in another 35 years? Gray pauses momentarily, then responds: “The a great thing about the future is it’s blank page. You can create whatever produce you want. As long as Nikon still a cameras in 35 years’ time, and there’s market for what we do, we’ll continue.”

To celebrate 35 years of trading, Gray matter: the of is Grays the – retailer OF Nikon-only magazine LACK NO a 70-page celebrating its 35th Westminster Gazette – is being published PEOPLE BUYING anniversary via a details: this June (join the mailing list for special publication https://bit.ly/3uh6aOc) Where Grays of Westminster is the https://bit.ly/3uh6aOc to – while, as well envy of other retailers is with regard – the gazette as our award, the customer loyalty and enthusiasm mile company bagged product of having gone the extra a Platinum Good when needed, literally hand-delivering that Service Award purchases by train – plus the fact from Amateur its Westminster location has historically The Decisive D6 35th Anniversary of

by Moose Peterson Grays of Westminster Photographer brought it into contact with a wide Nikon Z 50 Mighty Mini-me

by Gillian Greenwood that

by Becky Danese for the fifth year variety of clientele. The result is AF-S NIKKOR A Tribute to 120-300mm that running. “That Michael Putland Grays of Westminster has found f/2.8E FL ED Nikon D780 means, hopefully, customers are still spending, whether we are doing more as a form of retail therapy or simply they love. things right than because photography is a hobby made wrong, and it “During the past five days we have one at certainly gives us three lens sales: one at £12,000, Cometh the Hour, under the encouragement Cometh the Z 9 £10,000 and one yesterday at just can get Simon Stafford reviews to carry on. We £8,000,” Gray reveals. “So if you NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8S The & 20mm f/1.8S lenses are honoured that the stock, it is turned over rapidly. and much more… due the public have big lens’ sales, I think, are perhaps voted for us.” to the easing of lockdown restrictions, and a number of people are beginning

F

Gray Levett, Owner Grays of Westminster

or its 35th year, Grays of Westminster has embraced regular customers while adding new ones. As the world locked down, the company expanded its loyal horizons, building on an enviably customer base by entering the world of live streaming and podcasting.

“We’ve added an extra 1,000 to subscribers in the past few weeks US the weekly live-streams, and our audience is now slightly larger than that of the UK,” founder Gray Levett (pictured) reveals. “We’re also finding the same people continue to come back, comment and engage in lively and exchanges with our two talented Danese knowledgeable presenters, Becky us and Konstantin Kochkin. This gives ideas for the future, as we’re learning first-hand what’s on customers’ minds.” more A particular curiosity is that the the bigger the niche the subject matter, response. “One of our earliest streams examined the difference between the pre-AI, AI and AI-S lenses, and audience for it was huge, because it’s not the sort of information you can readily find on the Internet.

“Being a Nikon-only store, our one rather issue has been a supply problem faced than a sales problem. Nikon has some really difficult challenges over all, the last fourteen months. First of the effects created by the Lockdown, at then the massive fire that took place

AKM Nikon’s components manufacturer, last Semiconductor in Japan, in October being year, and, finally, stock that was nearly transported in a giant container, in a quarter of a mile long, ran aground that stock the Suez Canal. Despite the fact a while is now coming through, it will be until it’s back to pre-pandemic levels.”

That said, the market for Nikon all the mirrorless cameras is increasing time and it continues to push forward that aspect of the business. “DSLR we sales may be declining, but where buy remain strong is with people who the as such the high-level equipment once D6 and D850, as well as the D780, they understand its capabilities.”

‘Cast aways: Konstantin Kochkin and Becky Danese present popular podcasts and live streams to keep their customer base engaged and informed

The Periodical for the Nikon

Devotee Founded 1992

• 40 CHURTON STREET • PIMLICO • LONDON SW1V 2LP • ENGLAND Tel: 020-7828 4925 • info@graysofwestminster.co.uk • www.graysofwestminster.co.uk

The Grays of Westminster Gazette

Grays of Westminster, 40 Churton

Street, Pimlico, SW1V 2LP. Visit www.graysofwestminster.co.uk

News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

Wednesday 15th to Saturday 18th March, 2023.

Get in touch direct via info@thesocieties.net

or call 01745 356 935

BPI News | April / May 2022 9

@bpi_news

Colin Jones, CEO, The Societies of Photographers

CONSUMER CAMERA OF THE YEAR:

CANON EOS R7 & R10

WINNER

CONSUMER CAMERA OF THE YEAR

CANON EOS R7 & EOS R10 “On behalf of Canon UK, thank you for the award.

It’s a great honour to receive this accolade for the EOS R7 and EOS R10 from BPI News readers. This is an especially important award for us as it’s for our first APS-C cameras to join the innovative EOS R System. We look forward to further building the reputation of these key cameras together with our retail partners, photographers and content creators into 2023 and beyond.”

• Issue no. 71

GRAYS OF WESTMINSTER

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8 April / May 2022 | BPI News

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or email info@graysofwestminster.co.uk

BPI News | June 2021 13

Neale Conroy, Canon UK Marketing Director

Agree or disagree with the way the voting went this year? Feel there was something or someone 14 November 2022 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Awards 2022

SPECIAL AWARD FOR SERVICES TO THE INDUSTRY:

ALEX H. FALK, MR CAD “We are delighted to have received this very prestigious award within the same year as celebrating 60 years of business. We at Mr Cad are so delighted to be recognised for our hard work and knowledge, with over 150 years of experience within three members of staff. This truly is an honour. As a company we are always trying to deliver the best service we can as well as wishing to be the last ones standing for anything and everything analogue photographic. Looking forward to many more good years. Always looking to purchase stock. Always looking for Staff. Thank you very much BPI News!”

WINNER

THE INDUSTRY FOR SERVICES TO SPECIAL AWARD K, MR CAD

ALEX H. FAL BPI News

much a year – very on industry this to reflect in the photo customers between ing 60 years quick Q&A Falk is celebrat him for a or Alex H. News grabs Mr Cad propriet celebrating. BPI sq ft building next worth shop, a 10,000 was a Kodak new at our milestone and what’s whether it decades – in Croydon, a new computer. the passing

AWARDS 2022

14N or of digital the Q: The advent 2018, when and the Internet a ack in December photography and ways felt like felt exciting world in some BPI News visited With must have at the time. place, H. Falk different have invigorating trade Alex of hindsight, reface in the the benefit long-time Cad, recently of and the Internet retailer Mr both digital of camera Pimlico. Formerly in the business?

London’s hindered court located to helped or now holding in Alex was addresses the Croydon, destroyed most prestigious from another has certainly one of the a digital A: Digital a stone’s throw Gray’s of invested in the capital, industry name, were even value of money now we are buying whereas long established aside, we for more product, . Postcode take-us-asic film items Westminster Cad’s Mr years ago. by photograph set up; the cost new 40-60 more impressed Cave-like 60 years in than they Aladdin’s all of my of floor space every you-find-us “I’ve enjoyed now... to enjoy it unit and inch ic Now continue your customers over photograph slightly every storage Retail legend: business and Q: Who are is getting and 60 massively with covetable reply. “It us of vintage 85 years old changed his I’m crammed is and they day,” 85, photo reminding have or digital years in the however at my Is it film kit; an approachIt’s the sort of place I started year and harder now the years? trade this you now? r days a week! better for Mr Cad stores in Japan. wracking our brains down to four counting, press photographe that does we were Falk ic life as a moved specialist where, if owner Alex and then today? Not photograph he has no to find a particular in Fleet Street e-by roll of (inset) says are our customers to say. on where Fotographia and is for Reuters I am sad A: Where ic retail with or a hard-to-com it. In short, plans to retire the That’s this country, bit of kit, find customer into photograph so many in thinking about undoubtedly rare breed. our largest Sizer in Streatham. film film, we’d a partnership China is probably and Mr Doug next decade never had offered me an increasingly to celebrate They have Mr Cad is never had when a customerretail store on Pitlake base today. our new chat Alex previously, small We kick off the chance.” by asking to open a or film cameras their grandparents, So I took of trading Croydon. of the s of the six decades Bridge in photograph did not have earliest memories happy ones, time they clientele, film about his were the local and at that purchase whether they What was then?

UAE eat, let alone business, BPI News: trade like money to years in Croydon… have the money. and photo Now they and his many for us. the industry cameras. marketplace was is also a growing opened there When we ic shops, you Alex Falk: and enthuses other photograph a motivates already three known chemist with Q: What it, when others door well doing next plus a very still to keep shop? ic department or shut up Street fine photograph in the High have retired & Spencer’s I am a well known to Marks to retire? together with so it I not wish in Croydon, called AGI, A: Why do my long standing maker David, it; English camera central shopping still loving with the company were established has been was a very does not wish manager, rs. Customers and certainly he has set a different area for photographe for 47 years retire, so to us to enjoy darkrooms easy and to enjoy the coming down to take it , to set up continues . and side of photography the photography the bar high of real photography forward now that and selling we are and to take at school, that while films buying been doing rationed and they had Please understandevery moment of no longer cameras were more freely available. being challenged is opened by many of the door were becoming customers every day, as well as new customers, visiting for the past boom years? were the been years Q: Which ours who’ve another 10 Do we have rs up think we 40 years.

I absolutely always front-runne We even started A: We were of our business? and variety of stock 25 years ago. until about department, do; the amount have will hopefully and digital and BBC a computer that we currently will keep on coming. selling Sinclair it was not originally add ensure customers I have to Computers. my colleagues. them, but .co.uk up on a Saturday me selling www.mrcad would queue Customers try something ad.co.uk to come and sales@mrc morning

B

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MEDIA OF THE YEAR:

ACCESSORY OF THE YEAR:

SIGMA 18-50MM F/2.8 DC DN CONTEMPORARY ZOOM “We are absolutely delighted that the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary has won BPI News ‘Accessory of the Year’.

This portable, fast aperture, crop-sensor standard zoom is part of Sigma’s growing DN line-up of lenses, designed from the ground-up for mirrorless systems. It’s currently available in L-Mount and Sony E-mount, and we’re pleased to also be bringing it to Fujifilm X-Mount later this year. We would like to take this opportunity to thank BPI News for its support of the Sigma brand and for recognising this innovative ACCESSORY OF THE YEAR product, which has been a gameSIGMA 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary changer for mirrorless users wanting the right combination of power and portability.”

WINNER BPI News Product Focus

HAS SIGMA’S SMALL ZOOM L BIG MIRRORLESS APPEA

Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 have the choice of a new Sony E-mount customers deals you need to push Not only do L-Mount and Black Friday cashback zoom; its maker also reveals DC DN Contemporary

L

-Mount and Sony E-mount are being mirrorless camera owners and directed to the ultra compact 18-50mm f/2.8 lightweight new Sigma standard zoom.

DC DN Contemporary rst mirrorless Billed as its maker’s fi cameras, it delivers zoom for crop sensor of 27mm to an equivalent focal range It can be 75mm in the 35mm format. such as Sigma’s used on full frame models as well as of own fp L in crop mode, cameras. course with APS-C sensor light With its ultra small and it ideal for day-to-day construction making landscape and shooting – including street portraits photography, as well as to a 12.1cm and close ups thanks – the minimum focus distance are features lens’ other headline ‘incredible’ optical performance, quality construction and ultra-fast AF response.

lens with a big Small wonder: a compact behind Sigma’s performance is the message Contemporary zoom.

18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN below.

Sample image shown

zoom is ideal for “This ultra-small standard because it’s so portable, day-to-day shooting quality are exceptional, and image and build a Sigma optic.” as you’d expect from Paul Reynolds Sigma UK General Manager

f/2.8 maintained The wide aperture of when used range further throughout the zoom in changing attractive ‘bokeh’ allows for smooth and temperatures. diameter of effects. Boasting a maximum Using metal for of 74.5mm, the lens 65.4mm and a length some of the internal and lightest parts is described as the smallest structure has ensured time of writing. boasting in its class at 290g at the can be thinner while as light as in Japan, In fact, to keep the lens a higher rigidity. Made construction a the cameras possible, for its barrel the lens complements (TSC) in being Thermally Stable Composite to which it will be attached used, which is resistant. polycarbonate has been itself dust and splash conductivity zoom was from purported to have a thermal Availability for the new – thus SRP of £429.99. close to that of aluminium October 29th, with an performance even ensuring a consistent

© Damien Dohmen

Tim Berry, Marketing Manager Sigma UK

Extra

NOT OUT! 60… AND MR CAD:

Get cash in with Sigma’s

Black Friday cash back

as Black retail bonanza known This year the annual 26th, yet Sigma’s own Friday falls on November runs across the week, time-limited offer generously to the 30th inclusive. claimable from the 22nd is exclusively on six And once again the focus Contemporary series. mirrorless lenses in its

All of Sigma’s lenses come NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!

three-year limited warranty.

WINNER

MEDIA OF THE YEAR ..

HAHNEMUHLE NATURAL LINE DIGITAL FINE ART PAPERS

“All of us at Hahnemühle are delighted to have won this prestigious award from BPI News. Sustainability is a living tradition at Hahnemühle and has defined the company’s history for more than four centuries. The company has recently been certified for all its sustainability measures and its environmentally sensitive actions according to the ISO 14001 guideline for environmental management. The Natural Line Digital Fine Art Papers are important tangible proof points, of our commitment to the environment and our efforts to support S AWARD the photographic community in 2022 being more sustainable.”

deals

being offered on its There’s £60 cash back AF 65mm f/2 DG DN AF 35mm f/2 DG DN, DN (all three and AF 24mm f/3.5 DG

with the benefit of a

Read BPI News online

HAHNEMÜHLE NATURAL LINE DIGITAL FINEART PAPERS

compatible Contemporary class lenses L-Mount). with Sony E-mount and Thirds, Alternatively Micro Four and L-Mount EF-M, Sony E-mount alike photographer customers cash back may be tempted by £40 f/1.4 offers on Sigma’s AF 30mm DC DN, DC DN, AF 56mm f/1.4 DN. or AF 16mm f/14 DC Contact your local Sigma back rep now for all the cash T&C’s and further details.

BPI News Product Focus

TO HAHNEMÜHLE AIMS GIVE PHOTOGRAPHERS A ‘NATURAL’ HIGH

Line Digital FineArt demonstrating Natural paper specialist will be from pro Rory Lewis The Digital FineArt inkjet providing photo shoots more… at The Photography Show, printers. BPI News discovers papers on stand G406 prints on Canon and Epson and outputting subsequent

D

igital FineArt brand Hahnemühle’s pandemic focus throughout the has been on the growing Award winning popularity of its TIPA papers. But Natural Line Digital FineArt is in the eating. the proof of the pudding this month the So it’s all the sweeter that a rare chance to get photo trade finally has with the media in a hands-on opportunity will be appearing question. Hahnemühle Video Show from at The Photography & 21st, and will be September 18th through its Natural Line outputting prints using Epson printers – papers via Canon and most commonly arguably the two brands photographers used by pro and enthusiast opportunity to – giving attendees the up-close-and-personal. wowed be of some enticing As well as the promise extra ‘carrot’ show-only offers, as an to draw the crowds, Hahnemühle’s celebrity stand G406 will be hosting Rory Lewis portrait photographer conducting half(pictured), who will be every day at hour-long shoots starting Attendees can 12pm, 2pm and 4pm. made on then have a portrait print either take away Natural Line paper to posted to them. as a memento or have already As if the trade weren’t from convinced of an opportunity

Hahnemühle Natural Line Digital FineArt papers at a glance:

Bamboo – a 290gsm thickness,

cotton, 90% bamboo fibre, 10% matt surface, natural white, smooth highly lightfast and vegan 60% hemp Hemp – again 290gsm,

smooth matt fibre, 40% cotton, white, and vegan surface, highly lightfast agave fibre, Agave – 290gsm, 70%

matt 30% cotton, white textured and vegan surface, highly lightfast were jointly All three of the above

Paper’ awarded ‘Best Inkjet Photo 2020 in the TIPA World Awards

Go big on print in 2021.

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!

Get the story from Rory: the celebrity portrait photographer will share the benefits of Natural Line Digital FineArt papers (above and right) on stand G406 at The Photography Show

missed, the Hahnemühle not to be of Rory’s images company tells us several acquired by of famous faces have been Gallery. His London’s National Portrait won the prestigious photography has also four years running ‘Portrait of Britain’ for under the and he’ll also be appearing Lens’ on the TPS banner of ‘Behind the 18th from 1pm. rostrum on Saturday directed to book Interested parties are portrait shoots, as a place now on Rory’s to: space is limited, by heading www.surveymonkey.co.uk /r/RoryLewisPhotoShoots

don’t need require minimal maintenance, quickly; meaning any pesticides and grow be produced that more cellulose can compared with on the same cropland also require other raw materials. They to save valuable much less water, helping – the environment.

Enthusiast and pro photographers resources and protect to stock offering alongside retailers looking So not only is Hahnemühle winning Natural great quality Hahnemühle’s award discerning photographers – will be materials that Line Digital FineArt range prints, but also utilising of the paper with it. For impressed by the properties are sustainable and plentiful delivers pin visit the team and itself. A special coating more, make a date to with deep Photography sharp details rich in colour, talk to the experts at The resistance. links below. blacks and excellent aging while checking out the materials involved Show, Highly renewable raw include in the paper’s construction www.hahnemuehle.co.uk indicated as agave, and bamboo, hemp www.rorylewis.studio These plants on the packaging (shown).

PIN SHARP DETAIL, SOUND ENVIRONMENTALLY

Contact the DPS Group

Read BPI News online

about Epson’s ‘P’ series

on 020 8466 7230 or

email sales@dpsb.co.uk

/ October BPI News | September

at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

2021 17

Nancy Janes, UK MD, Hahnemühle

m

Visit www.sigma-imaging-uk.co

2021 13 BPI News | November

at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

PRODUCT OF THE YEAR:

NIKON Z 9 “We have been blown away by the response to the Z 9, our flagship mirrorless camera. As a testament to Nikon’s proven track record of innovation for more than a century, the Z 9 is a giant leap forward in both photo and video capability, while remaining invaluable to the core needs of the photographers and filmmakers who use our brand. We want to thank all those who voted for it to win this special award.”

WINNER PRODUCT OF THE YEAR NIKON Z9

Product

of the Month 2

PRODUCT OF THE 9 MONTH 2: NIKON Z mirrorless camera it’s Can Nikon’s most advanced audience? manufacturer and intended

ever made justify the

expectations of both its

W

at its ith a built in battery grip sized base, along with a full Z 9 is handgrip proper, the it’s not quite as a bit of a beast. OK, so full sized, full chunky as a comparable DSLR would frame professional grade system camera be, but still… a ‘compact’ with the Nikkor this is not. Twin the body VR S telephoto Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 sent for zoom we were generously gargantuan. review and it’s positively a Of course big lenses require and mount, plus comparably chunky body power a camera offering market-leading going to be one to and punch was never a handbag. Also, slip unobtrusively into that Nikon has with reports suggesting for worldwide slipped into fourth place and Fujifilm sales behind Canon, Sony due to success (the latter’s placing largely it feels like it’s of its Instax snapshots), make a decisive high time for Nikon to is the much hyped statement of sorts. So Z 9 it? / much anticipated Nikon

CHUNKY MONKEY Z 9’s intended Nikon views the flagship pro fashion audience as comprising who and commercial photographers detail its will benefit from the added CMOS sensor 45.7 megapixel full frame landscape and can deliver, as well as Also included wildlife photographers. snappers in its catchment are sports

Julian Harvie, Head of Marketing at Nikon Northern Europe Published for over 35

years, BPI News is your

2022 22 February / March

for Nikon to make a decisive It feels like it’s high time is the much hyped / much statement of sorts. So 9 it?” anticipated Nikon Z slouch either. In and here the Z 9 is no who surely don’t summer’s Tokyo and photojournalists, fact, perhaps with last but will mind, or the require a whopping resolution, Olympics originally in t from a generous taking place, nevertheless still benefi winter games currently with 3D with being 493-point auto focus system the camera has been blessed claims footage for up tracking that the manufacturer able to record 8K 30P implementation minutes at a is its most sophisticated to a movie-length 125 speeds of is currently to date, along with capture time, which unsurprisingly auto focus and mirrorless up to 120fps with full the longest duration for clear this one’s are full exposure metering. It’s cameras. Even the ‘basics’ from the fact that 24fps and a bit of a powerhouse frame 8K video at between Raw 24fps to 120fps, more than 1,000 full resolution 60fps, or 4K video at at 20fps in one in-camera. images can be captured plus time-lapse movies body-only asking is feature burst. Yes, the £5,299 As we’d expect, this camera but it seems they as button festooned as price here is not cheap, and packed capable of smaller size when like the Z 9 is a workhorse come, but the slightly its clock. The does help putting many miles on compared to a pro DSLR well-built when reaching certain camera feels as solid and avoid that feeling that expect for that or thumb held in the palm as we’d controls is a bit of a finger a indeed is it while camera with sort of outlay, and stretch. In gripping the mirrorless camera, essentials are chunky example of a both hands, most of the is 20% smaller feel immediately Nikon insists its body within reach, and will incredibly, handled a pro, than its own D6, while, familiar to anyone who’s robustness. of DSLR. Nikon exceeding that DSLR’s or even semi pro, class while to step was reluctant for a long focus the majority NOT JUST STILLS away from DSLR and but the of its attention on mirrorless, BUT VIDEO TOO its eventual Z 9 would suggest that to pay off.

Photojournalists and commercial change of heart is beginning get photographers may occasionally www.nikon.co.uk moving footage, called upon to capture

industry’s only dedicated

title aimed at retailers,

distributors, minilabs

and manufacturers. www.bpinews.co.uk

| BPI News

more deserving of our accolades? Congratulations or commiserations welcomed via info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2022 15

BPI News Awards 2022

PRINTER OF THE YEAR:

EPSON SC-P8500D, VIA THE DPS GROUP “It’s a huge honour to win printer of the year for the Epson SureColor P8500D. Photographers familiar with previous Epson models will immediately see that this is a completely different beast, from its sleek fresh design to its dual roll feed. The P8500D is the first of a brand new line of photo printers from Epson that promise to deliver enhancements in ease of use, flexibility and running costs.”

WINNER PRINTER OF THE YEAR

EPSON SC-P8500D VIA THE DPS GROUP BPI News Product Focus

BIG WIDE FORMAT,THE DPS APPEAL, SAYS GROUP & EPSON format machine highlights a new wide Re-seller the DPS Group of spaces slot into the most compact retailers, minilabs can

E

AWARDS 2022 a sneak DPS Group if you’d like “Get in touch with the of Epson’s new ‘P’ series preview of the capabilities will make a which we believe really wide format printer, and bottom line.” difference to your productivity Patel DPS Group MD Maneesh

‘P’ FOR ‘POWERHOUSE’

Epson UK Head Of Sales Phil McMullin adds: “It’s a huge honour to win printer of the year for the Epson SureColor P8500D. Backed up by a full 24 month warranty, now is the time to upgrade your printer via trusted Epson value-added partner The DPS Group.”

that

Bringing out the big guns... Epson’s six ink wide format printer is geared towards expanding your personalised photo products business and boosting your bottom line

pson is never a manufacturer to to stand still when it comes its innovating in print, while is always re-seller the DPS Group out for the proactively on the look its customer next big thing to help base turn a healthy profit. off the back Coming this October is the new of a recent announcement printer. It Epson SC-P8500D 44-inch claims features what the manufacturer plus six ink is a completely new design ink added printing, with a new grey worth noting for the ‘P’ series. Also print engine is an embedded Adobe along with plus dual rolls as standard, print speeds pigment ink sets, and per hour. up to 131 square metres

Maneesh Patel, MD of Epson re-seller the DPS Group

from the print innovator

P8500D is the first The 44-inch SureColor new powerhouse available model in the line up.

‘P’ series photo printer is that this is The selling point here deal in high a machine for those who (or would like volume photo fulfilment or to), whether a retail environment features a mini lab. Again the printer MicroFTP a 2.64-inch PrecisionCore for space print head, compact footprint convenient constrained environments, six colour front operation, and uses this time UltraChrome inks (although variety). Further they’re of the ‘PRO6’ roll operation, builtfeatures include dual printing, in take-up reel for roll-to-roll

plus optional easy automatic roll loading stackers. Significant adjustable production versus previous increases in print speed are expected.

8 or 10 colour devices has been The ‘P’ family machine in part due introduced, says Epson, producing to print service providers products, more personalised photo art, including décor and graphic spotted a rising while, in tandem it has quality and need for both higher lower costs. higher productivity at DPS Group As ever, the message from “Get in touch MD Maneesh Patel is: you’d like a sneak with the DPS Group if of Epson’s preview of the capabilities printer, which new ‘P’ series wide format a difference we believe really will make bottom line.” to your productivity and advised to get Interested parties are strongly new ‘P’ series in touch NOW about Epson’s printer via sales@dpsb.co.uk 7230. or by calling 020 8466 www.thedpsgroup.co.uk www.dpsb.co.uk

Go big on print in 2021.

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!

Contact the DPS Group

Read BPI News online

about Epson’s ‘P’ series

Epson SureColor P8500D at a glance

44-inch High volume wide format

printer meeting the increasing

demand for personalised photo products, including décor and graphic art and higher Delivers higher quality

cost productivity at a lower print Significant increase in

previous speed compared with 8 or 10 colour ink devices Utilises six colour inks,

ink including a new grey Features a 2.64-inch PrecisionCore

MicroFTP print head Offers dual roll operation,

rollbuilt-in take-up reel for to-roll printing, easy automatic roll loading plus optional stackers adjustable production space Compact footprint for

constrained environments

printer on 020 8466 7230

or email sales@dpsb.co.uk 2021 17 BPI News | July / August

at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

INNOVATION OF THE YEAR:

DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR:

TRANSCONTINENTA UK “All of us at Transcontinenta UK are thrilled to receive this award. Having started the UK company a little over DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR TRANSCONTINENTA UK three years ago, it’s testament to the hard work and dedication of the UK team during challenging times. We also appreciate the great support of our trade partners and thank you for voting for us. It’s very much appreciated. We are very proud of this achievement and will continue to proactively support the brands we represent.”

WINNER

SARAMONIC VGM STABILISATION KIT, VIA MAC GROUP EUROPE

BPI News Product Focus

S & FACES EXCITING NEW BRAND UK FOR TRANSCONTINENTA lines and three new product Meet three new faces month Transcontinenta UK this

W

ith the UK arm of the Netherlands based distributor Transcontinenta it has having launched pre-pandemic, to enjoy swift batted away challenges of this year it growth since. At the start

on exclusive expanded further to take for the UK and Ireland distribution Zhiyun brands.

Hahnel, Leofoto and in They say everything comes the three new threes, and, as well as UK product lines, Transcontinenta They are: also has three new joiners. up the role David Holley, who takes Hahnel/Leofoto; of Sales Manager for Chris Watts; plus Marketing Coordinator will be handling Graham Crump, who AV channel.

Specialist Sales for the

PRODUCTS TO RE-BOOT YOUR SALES

a steer on Specialist retailers seeking the brands to order which products from Hahnel ProCube in first, are directed to batteries.

2 chargers and Extreme year’ by a host Voted ‘accessory of the magazines, the of familiar photography not only look great cube shaped chargers space – while and take up minimal desk camera batteries allowing for one or two – there are to be charged simultaneously to the various key also options dedicated Nikon, Sony, brands; including Canon,

Gleaming the cube: Hahnel’s ProCube 2 chargers not only look fantastic, they can cleverly charge specific camera batteries or be used for charging regular AAs too. Hahnel can also supply the camera batteries, via its Extreme batteries range

at ever-expanding distributor

and sling build quality, classic structure note grip design aside, of particular flip-out here is an integrated 2.88-inch for high quality touch screen allowing ‘Infineon’ monitoring. A powerful and precise sensor also promises stability jitter, providing compensation for any response for a smoother and quicker version of the stabiliser. The standard a mini tripod the Weebill 2 also includes can be mounted that the whole set up also supports on, if desired, while it of pro accessories. extensions in the shape Fujifilm, with packages Olympus, Panasonic and There are currently four to Weebill 2 and attention grabbing colours available, including the versatile, cabledifferentiate them. The on its own, plus the Weebill LCD display, tripod a sling grip less cubes feature a high-end 2 Combo, which adds UK, Third and case. carrying are supplied with interchangeable and handle with a 12V the Weebill EU and US plugs, come fourth options come via the versatility packages, car lead, plus feature 2 Pro and Weebill 2 Pro+ for 4xAA and of an AA tray that allows which add various transmitters together. batteries to be charged focus/zoom control motors. customers’ selected Also capable of turning Thirdly, available through packaging Leofoto Ranger heads with their contemporary distribution partners are line up, outdoor and is Hahnel’s Extreme battery Series tripods, compact for a come complete offering lithium ion batteries travel ready options that brands. As of legs only. This host of big name camera with heads, or as a set high, long compact grey well as boasting an ultra line up includes the ultra cells promise fibre LS-362C, lasting capacity, these and blue liveried carbon conditions, in length yet extra durability in extreme which folds up to 26cm 500 charge/ load of 45Kg can withstand more than can support a maximum are drop proof (from itself. discharge cycles, plus while weighing just 1.1Kg and shockproof of the new heights of three metres) For full details on any tag. or Leofoto, as with it. Hence the ‘extreme’ brands, Zhiyun, Hahnel the second full portfolio from Worth highlighting from well as full details of the Weebill Zhiyun the visit the website at newly added brand is transcontinental, please three 2 Gimbal (left), a professional www.transcontinenta.co.uk, cameras axis stabiliser for mirrorless or speak direct with Transcontinenta the likes of the or and DSLRs, including UK on 0203 966 5947 D850, with a Canon 5D and Nikon info@transcontinenta.co.uk 4.16Kg. Robust maximum payload of

CONTACT DETAILS FOR ARE: THE NEW RECRUITS David Holley (above left) Chris Watts (middle)

Graham Crump (on right)

T: 07976 256055 E: d.holley@transcontinenta.co.uk T: 07824 047336 E: c.watts@transcontinenta.co.uk

T: 07530 410268 k E: g.crump@transcontinenta.co.u

Don’t miss out! New Hahnel,

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!

tripods of it: Leofoto’s Ranger The long and the short possible creative possibilities

Zhiyun and Leofoto ranges

Read BPI News online

are now available direct

come in a wide range

from Transcontinenta

of sizes and cover all

UK. Get in touch to order

/ March 2022 BPI News | February

7

at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

Simon Coleman, MD Transcontinenta UK

CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR:

FUJIFILM ‘PRINT TO PROVE IT’ CAMPAIGN “We are so passionate about photographers seeing the WINNER potential of professionally CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR FUJIFILM ’ PRINT TO PROVE IT’ printed photos for themselves, which is why we partnered with nine professional labs during the launch of Print to Prove it.

Since launching the campaign, thousands of photographers have expressed an interest in seeing the quality provided when partnering with a professional lab. The feedback on the campaign has been fantastic so far, and winning this award Sis the AWARDon cherry on top of the cake. We are already looking for ways to build 2022 this success in 2023, so watch this space!”

“Thank you, BPI News, for awarding Saramonic the Innovation of the Year award for the VGM Stabilisation Kit. MAC Group Europe has been working hard to develop the Saramonic audio brand and get such high-quality products into the hands of consumer.

To receive this recognition is a real high moment for the whole team involved.

We are extremely honoured and very grateful.”

Loraine Morgan, Head Of Marketing MAC Group Europe

Fujifilm Advertorial

Pro Lab News

THE PROOF IS IN THE PRINTING: FUJIFILM EMPOWERS THE PHOTO BOOM

offer of to get photographers printing, dangling the Fujifilm continues its ‘Print To Prove It’ campaign Photo Paper in order to get them hooked on three free prints on Lustre or Gloss Fujifilm Professional the quality and finish of a hard copy

W

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

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

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

MEET THE ADVOCATES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To discover how Fujifilm can inspire ideas and

18 April / May 2022 | BPI News

be of the best quality for every client.

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

FUTURE PROOF PRINTING FOR PRO LABS

printing for their brand and customers.”

Fujifilm UK General Manager Theo Georghiades

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

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

A STRONG WORKING RELATIONSHIP

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

help boost the profile and bottom line of your

own store or minilab, get in touch

www.bpinews.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GET IN TOUCH

For more information on how to join up to the Print To Prove It campaign, and to hear more from Fujifilm’s advocates about their printing journeys,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

visit www.fujifilmprinttoproveit.com

lm.com or by visiting www.fujifilmphotoservices.co.uk with Fujifilm Photo Print Services at photoimaging_uk@fujifi

BPI News | April / May 2022 19

@bpi_news

WINNER INNOVATION OF THE YEAR

SARAMONIC VGM STABILISATION KIT VIA MAC GROUP EUROPE BPI Product Focus

WITH ENJOY ‘STEADY’ SALES GROUP SARAMONIC FROM MAC video blogging –particularly pandemic, the world of to add the new home for parts of the Never a better time then With everyone stuck at over the past 18 months. very market… to stock, aimed at this blogs, or ‘vlogs’ – has exploded Kit with Vmic Mini microphone Saramonic VGM Stabilisation those of ocial media experts suggest favourite us scrolling through our stop and feeds are more likely to other content type. watch videos than any to promote a Luckily for anyone looking range in this way, business and/or product from the Saramonic there’s a new solution audio for video. brand, the experts in Europe, the Distributed by MAC Group Kit with Saramonic VGM Stabilisation should be pitched Vmic Mini microphone complete all-into your customers as a mounting one stabilisation, accessory Aimed at rig and microphone bundle. smartphones – so, users of cameras and – it’s a no brainer pretty much everyone offering plentiful to imagine this product photo specialist sales opportunities for and more. retailers, electronics outlets the versatile As well as smartphones, VGM solution and flexible Saramonic mirrorless can accommodate DSLRs, as a variety of and action cameras plus the ability to shooting styles – providing steady video and capture great sound, the bargain. The utilise accessories into and professional result? More cinematic footage for content looking and sounding more likely to creators – meaning they’re engagement they’re get the attention and users. media social fellow seeking from

THE ONLY RIG ‘VLOGGERS’ NEED

Gloria McCann, Fujifilm UK Commercial Marketing Manager, Imaging Solutions

Saramonic VGM Stabilisation Kit at-a-glance:

S

with  All metal construction mount rugged integrated shock Saramonic  Features an on-board quality cardioid Vmic Mini broadcast microphone condenser mini shotgun output  Both TRS and TRRS quick and cables are supplied for device easy connection to any audio  Delivers crystal clear mic to cameras with a 3.5mm with input and smartphones a 3.5mm headphone jack no headphone  Mobile devices with an optional jack can be paired with Lightning or USB-C dongle of 5Kg  Maximum weight capacity mounting  Numerous accessory and expandability options

An all-in-one solution for better sound and video, the very flexible Saramonic VGM Stabilisation Kit (above and below) via MAC Group will deliver more professional results, at a price anyone can afford

when As we’ve highlighted previously great quality discussing Saramonic, as a steady audio is just as important with a Saramonic shot. The VGM comes quality cardioid Vmic Mini; a broadcast microphone for condenser mini shotgun detailed, crystal providing videos with

For stock of the Saramonic 14 September / October

with a clear sound. For smartphones or cameras 3.5mm headphone jack TRS and with a 3.5mm input, both included.

TRRS output cables are smartphones Even if content creators’ jack, don’t feature a headphone available. optional adapters are accessories that Plus, when it comes to rig, there’s the can be mounted on the light, audio option to include an LED microphone mixer, power bank, wireless more – even at receiver, monitor and a higher quality the same time – to bring versatility and level to videos. For added features a shoe extendibility, the VGM rails and bottom sliding mount top rail, both handgrips cold shoe mounts, while allowing the feature bottom threads, on a tripod or VGM to be mounted included stand. What’s more, and

VGM Stabilisation Kit

or to find out more, head

degree of wrist strap offers a further hand held. stability for those shooting that the set up The manufacturer adds a minimum width can be adjusted from width of of 4.72 inches to a maximum meaning that 12.4-inches within seconds, almost limitless. the options, it says, are Like anything from Saramonic device comes and MAC Group, the of just at a very affordable price easy sale. £114 SRP; making it an Saramonic Product Marketing Manager Jit Soni, concludes: Kit with Vmic “The VGM Stabilisation pin-sharp Mini microphone provides sound stabilisation and crystal-clear what you might capture at a fraction of for this level of usually expect to pay has always prided performance. Saramonic class-leading itself on delivering genuinely a stratospheric price without performance just that with tag to match, and delivers be a hit with this kit. We believe it will versatile, robust creators looking for a that they set-up and intuitive operation what their subject.” can rely on no matter products, For stock of Saramonic on 01902 contact MAC Group direct 255500 or via info@macgroupeu.com

AWARDS 2022

to www.saramonic.com www.bpinews.co.uk

2021 | BPI News

Share your views on our award winners with your peers in the trade. Get in touch via info@bpinews.co.uk 16 November 2022 | BPI News

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BPI News Product Focus

PROFIT FROM PERSONALISATION WITH DPS GROUP & EPSON With the gifting season coming up fast, it makes sound commercial sense to install Epson’s SC-F100 and SC-F500 dye subs plus ‘direct to garment’ SC-F2100 and offer your customers personalised gifts and promotional goods galore. Official reseller the DPS Group awaits your call

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here’s profit to be had from personalisation and the provision of unique one-off photo gifts for your customers. It’s a market that has been in growth for a long while, and really exploded during the pandemic.

Now, with Christmas approaching, it makes sound commercial sense to look at adding a means of profitably producing such products in-house.

Enter a business-boosting trio of printer choices from Epson in the A4 SC-F100 dye sub and its larger SCF500 cousin, plus the ‘DTG’ direct-togarment SC-F2100. Between them they enable the production of personalised mugs, Santa sacks, stockings, T-shirts, tote bags and pretty much whatever your imagination can stretch to.

As a highly affordable option for photo businesses looking to get started with personalised photo gifts, Epson’s SC-F100 is described as ‘simply brilliant’

by DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel. He adds: “Epson’s SC-F100 allows users to produce and sell a range of photo merchandise on the premises – with no need to involve a third party for the fulfillment of orders. This makes for a fast turnaround and places the profit back in your hand equally quickly.”

Ideal for use in shop scenarios where space is at a premium, the compact SC-F100 can deliver personalised mugs, key fobs, phone covers, lanyards and other popular small merchandise items. With consistent quality provided via a PrecisionCore MicroTFP print head, the printer can also meet the needs of textile producers who want to create bespoke products like cushions, aprons and small bags.

Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct feature as standard as does Ethernet and USB 2.0 connectivity, plus the convenience of a 2.4-inch tilting LCD. With inks, driver and consumables from the Epson range – including its DS Transfer General Purpose A4 sheets – all designed to work together, the dye sub provides a user friendly beginning-to-end print solution. Additional peace of mind comes via a one-year, or 6,000 sheet, warranty; whichever is first.

“Epson’s SC-F100 allows users to produce and sell a range of photo merchandise on the premises – with no need to involve a third party for the fulfillment of orders.”

DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel A personal best: Epson’s printer trio of the SC-F100 (top left), SC-F500 (top right) and direct-to-garment SC-F2100 (below) offer you the chance to profit by offering personalised output

FROM FESTIVE MUGS TO SANTA SACKS The SC-F100 joins the still current larger format SC-F500, which Maneesh describes as “hugely successful”. Despite its 24-inch design, it still maintains a relatively compact footprint, yet extends the possibilities for personalised printed goods to include the likes of T-shirts and cushions alongside phone covers, mugs and mouse mats.

As with the SC-F100, it utilises very affordable refillable 140ml ink bottles, and the DPS Group reassures that no specialist knowledge is required regarding set up, operation or maintenance. In short, the SC-F500 has been built with ease of use, productivity and efficiency in mind, so any businesses can quickly respond to

customers’ needs. For example, there is the ability to switch between cut sheets and roll media, while easy-to-use software helps accurately calculate print costs.

Finally, retailers with bigger ambitions still are strongly encouraged to check out the direct-to-garment SC-F2100 printer from Epson. As we’ve learnt in the past, this option provides a year-round revenue stream via its ability to print Santa sacks in winter, tote bags in spring and T-shirts in summer, attracting customers you may not have served before.

This profitable option enables printing on garments that range from 100% cotton to 50/50 fabric blends. A clever use of four colour inks, plus white ink, ensures that designs truly ‘pop’.

Additionally your mince pies won’t cool waiting for it to finish, as the SC-F2100’s operation is twice as fast as the previous generation, thanks to the likes of a quickload platen plus Light Garment Mode.

Less downtime is promised too, due to an integrated self-cleaning system.

Interested parties are strongly advised to get in touch NOW about Epson’s printer trio via sales@dpsb.co.uk or by calling 020 8466 7230. www.thedpsgroup.co.uk www.dpsb.co.uk

Get Christmas done: Contact the DPS Group about Epson’s SC-F100, SC-F500 & SC-F2100 on 020 8466 7230 or email sales@dpsb.co.uk

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BPI News | November 2022 17

Minilab News

FUJIFILM INDEPENDENT RETAILER PARTNERS GET ‘TICKET TO PRINT’ AT 2022 LIVERPOOL CONFERENCE

Fujifilm Independent Retailer Partners from across the UK descended on Liverpool for this year’s Fujifilm Partner Conference, coming together to network, collaborate, learn, and above all, celebrate a year of hard work together with a Beatles themed awards dinner. It was yet another insightful weekend (and a hard day’s night) for attendees

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ctober marked the 2022 Fujifilm Independent Partner Conference, where retailers came from across the UK came together to network, collaborate and get inspired ahead of the busy Christmas period.

“Our annual Partner Conference is an eagerly anticipated event for the Fujifilm team and our network of independent retail partners – and it didn’t disappoint!”

Enthuses Theo Georghiades, General Manager of Imaging Solutions at Fujifilm UK. “We were proud to share our plans for the brand’s new direction, to be announced next year, and hear how all the attendees’ businesses have been faring over the past year.

“As we face a difficult winter ahead, it was vital we demonstrated our plans for growth and to align all stakeholders in the same direction with the same goal. Everyone seems raring to grow and succeed as we move towards the Christmas period, and so we can’t wait to put into action all of what was learned and discussed here at the conference.”

“Everyone seems raring to grow and succeed as we move towards the Christmas period, and so we can’t wait to put into action all of what was learned and discussed here at the conference.”

Theo Georghiades , Fujifilm UK General Manager of Imaging Solutions

WE CAN WORK IT OUT

A ‘Fab’ Conference: Liverpool hosted Fujifilm partners and didn’t disappoint, with tribute band and chance to get creative with cameras

Supporting with the growth of digital marketing for independent businesses, the visitors attended a social media strategy workshop. Split into two sections, attendees were first shown how to take captivating content that is appropriate for their audience. Then, they were educated on the latest methods to optimise their presence online. This included advertising opportunities, audience targeting and an introduction to pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.

Gloria McCann, Commercial Marketing Manager of Imaging Solutions at Fujifilm UK explains: “We wanted to support

our network of retailers with the digital knowledge to get their businesses in front of the right people. Harnessing the power of low-cost social media advertising and PPC campaigns in their local areas could help to bring in new customers over the busy Christmas period.

“Building on their loyal customer base built up over years, we want to support our retailers with growing their audience in their areas and this kind of digital presence will certainly help them. We will be continuing this great work with a series of workshops for our partners throughout the year, providing expertise and support to our partners on the Fujifilm Partner Programme.”

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

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Fujifilm Advertorial

MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR The second experience of the conference was a photo walk through central Liverpool. Split into teams, retailers were encouraged to put what they’d learnt from the social media workshop into practice. Armed with

With a Little Help From My Friends: Photo walk winners Rickmansworth Photo Express and Knowle Photographic receive their reward from Fujifilm’s Wendy Gray and Gloria McCann

a Fujifilm X-S10 digital camera, an instax SQ1 Square camera, and their smartphones, retailers were encouraged to capture an array of creative content.

Fujifilm hosted a mini competition for the most captivating posts with prizes handed out at the awards evening.

Fujifilm want to support our retail partners by helping them to grow their audience and their businesses. We’ll be continuing this great work with a series of workshops throughout the remainder of the year, which will provide expertise and learnings that can be used to achieve this.”

Gloria McCann, Fujifilm UK Commercial Marketing Manager of Imaging Solutions

FUJIFILM PHOTO PRINT SERVICES 2022 AWARDS In the long standing tradition of the Conference, this year saw a set of eight awards go to Retail Partners to honour their hard work in different areas of business. From showing dedication to promoting the role of photo retail on UK high streets, to recognising the emerging retailers who are growing themselves and Fujifilm’s brands, the awards offer an opportunity to reflect on the successes from across the UK. This year’s winners were: Business of the Year 2022 – Enniskillen Photo Shop (Ennskillen, Northern Ireland) Outstanding Contribution to Independent Photo Retail 2022 – Diane Sampson, Perfect Pictures (Penzance, Cornwall) Business Endeavour Award Winners 2022 – Carmarthen Cameras (Carmarthen, Wales), Winchester Photographic (Winchester, Hampshire), Greens Photo Centre

All You Need is Love: Enniskillen Photo Shop’s Justin McConnell accepts the top award of Business Of The Year 2022

(Halifax, West Yorkshire), Camelot Photographic (Wincanton, Somerset) Fujifilm Fidelity Award – Nick Jones, The Photo Studio (Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire) Best Newcomer – Shackleton Photographic (Abergavenny, Wales)

FUJIFILM EASY PRINT & PHOTO BY FUJIFILM KIOSK Exhibited to all retailers for the first time, the conference also featured the new PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk with FUJIFLM Easy Print software.

Already being trialled in John Lewis & Partners’ flagship Oxford Street store, in addition to other retailers, its innovations have been developed to make photo printing from a smart phone possible with just four simple steps. Customers simply scan the QR code on screen, select images from their camera roll, choose the size and number of copies, then review the order and hit print.

With a small footprint of just under half a square metre (61.6x67cm), the compact PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk uses this innovative software to offer instant prints to customers in stores.

Minimising the retail space taken up on the shop floor, the unit can house up to two DE100XD devices, offering size capabilities ranging between 4x6 to 8x12-inches.

Attendees were able to try the innovation for themselves and get an idea of what it may provide for their own business and customers.

An instant print service that takes up only a small footprint, the new kiosk is a way for the retailers to offer their customers quick self-service photo prints in-store alongside their existing range of photo products.

GET IN TOUCH For more information on becoming a Fujifilm Independent Partner and to learn about the Partner Programme, get in touch with Fujifilm direct via photoimaging_uk@fujifilm.com

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

BPI News | November 2022 19

Business Advice

O G K N A H T BLACK FR An American idea that, like Halloween, has done rather well over here of late, this year the heavily promoted retail bonanza of Black Friday falls on November 25th, with Cyber Monday following in quick succession on the 28th. With consumers reining in expenditure however, how can photo specialists ensure that this year’s Black Friday is as profitable as previous occasions, or as near as dammit?

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ow is your business anticipating this month’s annual shopping frenzy, albeit one this year perhaps tempered by the cost of living crisis? Are you going all out with slashed prices and time limited deals on stock, or simply choosing to ignore what has fast become a ingrained fixture in the retail calendar?

The Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States, when stores offer highly promoted sales complete with heavily discounted prices and which traditionally marks the start of the Christmas shopping season, the import that is ‘Black Friday’ has caught on big time with us transatlantic cousins in recent years. Originally fuelled by the online retail giant Amazon, it’s been adopted by many of our own biggest bricks and mortar chains, and high street

independents alike. It’s fair to say though, that especially since the pandemic of the past three years, most of the action now takes place online. Thankfully fisticuffs in the supermarket aisles over the last of the discounted widescreen TVs appears a thing of the past; that said, spreading offers across online and in-store, for those who do have a physical presence, still makes sound commercial sense. Yes, it’s more of an online event, there’s no doubt, with typically far more orders taking place online than in store, but it does boost in store traffic as well.

Like any oft-repeated sales ‘trick’, each year there’s the suspicion that Black Friday may have lost some of its luster and shine.

Consumers have become wise to ‘deals’ offered at prices that were the same just a few months before, or designed to clear out

old tat that has been stuck, unsold, at the back of the stockroom for years. Retailers too have become weary of the race to the bottom on price, preferring to promote what makes them unique, not just the cheapest, which includes valuing service and knowledge. Each has a fair point.

This year traders need to decide, however, if they want to take part and if the results can still justify the promotional effort involved.

Those who have kept and maintained data compliant mailing lists will have a ready made audience to pitch to, of course, without a huge amount of additional effort being involved – beyond of course sourcing and pricing stock accordingly (with actually getting stock being the bugbear of recent times), and then making preparations for fulfilling potentially an unusually high

Got your own ideas about how the photo industry can counter the challenges arising from the cost of living crisis, 20 November 2022 | BPI News

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Promotions Special

OD IT’S RIDAY

is to expand time limited promotions and link them to specific and different methods of selling – so via your website, in-store and across social media too.

Each promotion can be used to create awareness of the given channel being used. If done correctly this creates a following through shareable email, web links or posts read by followers.

Naturally the problem with Black Friday is also the fact that it’s time limited. Many photo independents have told us that their customers potentially delaying purchases in the hope of a Black Friday bargain kills their trade in the month of October just before, and, to a lesser extent, in usually busy month of December just after. Still, those same retailers also tell us they feel like they are missing out if they don’t offer any tie-in deals at all. While retailers can make hay while the sun shines, they also need to be aware of trying to maintain this artificially inflated momentum for the rest of the year. For this reason business owners need to capture and harvest data collected online and then, carefully, email offers to customers with a call to action. The same offer can be made to social media connections – while trying to avoid merely spamming recipients to such an extent any offers actually become off-putting.

Of course, online sales are just one aspect of Black Friday. There is an argument to say that firms should run in-store only promotions too. Done correctly, you might even get a queue forming outside the store before it opens, encouraging further custom from curious volume of orders in a shortened time of other related products. It’s what passers by. Traders do need to exercise frame, if and when the promotion pays off. Amazon does at the bottom of each web caution though; the typical Black Friday Some may consider that the effort to page, with multi-buy recommendations bargain hunter is unlikely to turn into a put it all together for a short period of or links to products often bought loyal, bread and butter customer who will time, when Christmas is just around the together. While Black Friday deals are reward you with years of return business. corner, is too much to bear – while others generally both stock and time limited, And, indeed, industry experts continue will conclude that they can do as much, thus nudging consumers into impulse to suggest that free shipping seems to if not more, trade over the Black Friday purchases, such offers can be begun in be more important weekend as they do to consumers than in the traditional The aim of the day remains to sell more of a given huge discounts. two weeks just prior discounted product, or ideally products plural, with As we’ve noted to Christmas itself. these sales both making money for you in the long run, previously, the sheer If bigger name while cross-fertilising sales of other related products.” number of Black manufacturers Friday orders could are also running once again mean long delays in shipping promotions on gear that you can dovetail advance of the day itself to spread the and delivery. It’s not been unknown with your own, then so much the better. potential frenzy over a more manageable however for big names to extend delivery period. Flash deals or lightning sales times from four to seven days following can be effective in this respect, with TAKE BACK CONTROL OF Black Friday promotions. The takeaway shoppers able to see how long is left on BLACK FRIDAY is that traders who plan to run a sale the clock and the percentage of stock need to plan ahead and secure supplies So, if concluding that you do want to already claimed, which plays into our while also offering manageable delivery take part this year, how should you go consumer obsession of when to buy. times. This year’s retail bonanza may be about it? The aim of the day remains to Although Black Friday is ostensibly a a little more subdued than usual, given sell more of a given discounted product, four-day weekend, others have spun everything else that is going on in the or ideally products plural, with these this out across a two-week period. world, but on balance it’s still something sales both making money for you in the The multi platform retail approach that many of us will continue to buy into. long run, while cross-fertilising sales has long been key, so another tactic

or care to share what’s working for you (without giving away trade secrets)? Then do get in touch direct via info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | November 2022 21

News

NEW PANASONIC CAMCORDER DUO & LUMIX S LENS It seems to be a bumper month for new camcorders as the electronics giant has two newbies of its own with the 4K resolution, 60fps Panasonic HC-X2 (pictured) (£2,879.99 SRP) and HC-X20 (£2,249.99 SRP), both with integrated wide-angle 24.5mm lenses and a one inch sensor, plus a simultaneous display on their LCD monitors and electronic viewfinders. Attendant features include 20x optical zoom, five axis hybrid OIS, triple manual rings for easy control, XLR audio input terminals, an integrated ND filter, dual SD card slots, unlimited shooting time plus built-in Wi-Fi. The higher end HC-X2 model additionally offers Hybrid Log Gamma and V-log recording for creating 4K HDR content, plus Ethernet connectivity and simultaneous SDI/HDMI output, and HD streaming capabilities.

In addition, there’s a new wide angle fixed focal length lens for

its full frame Lumix S camera series in the Panasonic Lumix S 18mm f/1.8 – described as the latest in a line of affordable f/1.8 lenses from the manufacturer benefitting from a large aperture and compact size. The lens consists of 13 lens elements in 12 groups, including three aspherical lenses, three ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lenses, one UED (Ultra Extra-Low Dispersion) and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index) lens. With a compact lightweight design, the lens is available now at £799.99 SRP. Finally, Panasonic has released a Ver2.2 firmware update for its Lumix GH6 to support direct recording and playback of video/ photo using an external USB-connected SSD. www.panasonic.co.uk

Tamron gifts Fuji X users telephoto power It’s almost hard to keep up with all the new lens releases from Tamron, available to the trade via Transcontinenta UK. The latest, available now at £1399.99 SRP, is for the Fujifilm X-mount. In fact the Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD is the third zoom from the brand compatible with Fuji’s X series and claims to be based on the EISA award winning Sony FE mount version, here covering the full frame equivalent focal length of 225mm to 750mm on an APS-C camera such as the Fujifilm X-H2S, X-T4 or X-T30 II. The optical construction is comprised of 25 elements in 16 groups, and features Tamron’s VXD linear motor focus mechanism said to deliver high speed and high precision movement, while reducing drive noise and vibration. This makes it, says Tamron, ideal for stills and video. www.tamron.eu/uk/ www.transcontinenta.co.uk

Sage advice from Billingham The premium priced, Midlands-based, Britishowned camera bag manufacturer has added a new sage and black colour combination to its line up, which mixes three layer, weather resistant ‘FibreNyte’ fabric with leather and brass buckles and straps, as shown. Ten bags in total are being given this new colour treatment, namely the Billingham 72, Hadley Digital, Hadley Small, Hadley Small Pro, Hadley Pro, Hadley Pro 2020, Mini Eventer, Eventer MKII, AVEA 7 End Pocket and AVEA 8 End Pocket. FibreNyte was first introduced in 2006 and is claimed to offer the highest level of durability and colour-fastness out of the fabrics that Billingham offers. www.billingham.co.uk

ANOTHER MAGNIFICENT ‘7’ FROM SONY

TIPA World Awards 2022 held at Photopia 2022

A new full frame mirrorless camera to entice custom has been unveiled in the Sony Alpha 7R V. Features include a whopping 61 megapixel resolution from a back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and a new AI processing unit said to allow for advanced human subject recognition through deep learning, thereby letting the camera track and recognise humans with ‘extreme’ accuracy. Also featuring are a latest generation BIONZ XR image processing engine – a first for the series – plus built-in image stabilisation, 8K video at 24/25P and 4K video oversampled from 6.2K without binning, plus a new four-axis multi angle LCD monitor, said to combine a regular tilting monitor with the side opening vari-angle variety. SRP is £3,999. www.sony.co.uk

With winners having been previously announced in our June 22 edition, the lucky recipients of this year’s TIPA’s (for which BPI News was also a judge) were given their actual awards at the second four-day Photopia event, which took place in Hamburg last month.

The event was attended by representatives of the winning companies and was broadcast worldwide. Those who missed it should head to www.tipa.com/awards-ceremony-2022/ “The TIPA World Awards are more than just trophies: they lend support to member magazines, publicise the ‘best of the best’ in photo products and services to help guide consumers in their purchases, and ultimately promote the photo and imaging industry in general,” concludes TIPA Chairman Thomas Gerwers. www.tipa.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to reach peers in the photo trade, so use it. Send ad bookings & press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk 22 November 2022 | BPI News

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THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR EXHIBITORS FOR MAKING THE EVENT SUCH A GREAT ONE! SAVE THE DATES FOR 2024 (16-19 MARCH )

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

QUALITY, DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE

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

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