British Photographic Industry News September & October 2021

Photographic British

Industry

news

SEPT / OCT 2021 • £3

Putting the photo trade in the picture for over 35 years

www.bpinews.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY COMES HOME! After 18 months of hurt

returns to the NEC – essential details inside!

BPI S: NEW NLY

K’S O THE U O TRADE PHOT AZINE MAG

P

20

P

19

P

12

P

6

IN THIS ISSUE…

MEDIUM FORMAT FOR LESS

HOLDAN BUYS INTRO

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

BUSINESS ADVICE

A medium format camera with lens for under £4K? Fujifilm has crunched the numbers and the camera size. We go hands-on with its latest device

Acquisitions and mergers are in the news, as Intro 2020 becomes part of Holdan, a Midwich Group subsidiary. BPI News discovers what this means for our trade

We try out Nikon’s retro-styled Z fc mirrorless camera, based on the 1980s FM2 film SLR. Has the brand’s past really helped to deliver it a brighter tomorrow?

Our experts refresh the trade on making the most of business opportunities at an exhibition.

Plus multi channel sales and marketing advice in the digital age

Photo Ken Hubbard: 150-500mm | 500mm | F / 6.7 | 1/ 2500 | ISO 800

We‘ve got you covered

Tamron Sony E-mount lenses are specifically designed

ability to shoot close-ups, especially with a shallow

to maximize the potential of your Sony full-frame and

depth of field. All lenses in this series also feature a

APS-C mirrorless camera. Their extreme portability and

moisture-resistant construction and amazing coatings

light weight design enhances the limitless versatility of

to keep them protected from the elements. Who says

each lens. A key feature of these lenses is the amazing

great things can’t come in small packages?

5

year warranty

Transcontinenta UK Ltd. | Distributor for Tamron UK and Ireland | W: tamron.co.uk | F: tamronuk | I: tamron_uk

5YEARS.TAMRON.EU REGISTER NOW FOR FREE 5 YEAR WARRANTY

Editorial | Sept / Oct 2021

Logo based around Anders font.

3 possible logo uses.

NEVER STOPPED DREAMING C

Photographic British

Industry

news

Published monthly by

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

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 ©2021 Legacy Media Ltd. ISSN: BPI News (Print) ..................................ISSN 2634-1344 BPI News (Online) ..............................ISSN 2634-1352

BPI News is a member of

REQUEST THE BPI NEWS 2021 PRODUCTION PACK for crucial dates via info@bpinews.co.uk Anders around . based uses Logo ible logo 3 poss

font.

raphic Photog

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

& P RO ED I A

DUC

TI

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

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

EW BPI N

Adve

g rtisin

and Pa

S M

ge siz

es

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

le Page

Spread

m (h)

x 333m m (w) Trim Page

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

240m

480m

x 333m m (w) Trim Page

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

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

m (h)

240m

246m

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

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

246m

(h)

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

486m

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

Quarter

(Reme

Half Page

Half Page

Page

Vertical

Portrait

m (w) x m (h) 148m

108m

al Horizont

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

ontal Horiz m (w)

220m

Strip

x 72mm

Vertical

Strip (w) m (h)

52mm x 300m

(h)

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

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

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

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

Tech

ni

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

ACT US

CONT

to the piece r mouth s: you BPI New

tog UK pho

an it really be true? After 18 months of pandemic hurt – and a full two-and-a-half years since the last exhibition took place in March 2019 – is photography really coming home to the NEC this month, with the return of The Photography & Video Show in its physical incarnation? With the demise of Photokina blamed on both Covid-19 and a shrinking market, this is now the biggest trade event on the calendar. That said, with the virus not having gone away and us heading into autumn, no one will be surprised if perhaps this year’s event feels slightly muted compared to pre-pandemic.

While not all of the contacts we’ve spoken to will be attending – adopting the ‘wait and see’ approach which has been sadly typical of recent times – the big names we’d expect to see, including Canon, Epson, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus and Sony, along with CameraWorld, LCE and Wex offering those all-important show deals, are all present and correct.

Another key manufacturer we spoke to expressed optimism, reasoning that the majority of those usually attending will

already have been ‘double jabbed’, so will, hopefully, feel less cautious about travelling to and attending such an event. Like anything in recent times, it’s hard to predict how this one will go, but, as indicated by our news items this issue, there are plenty of exciting new goodies to touch and try. And yes, the same manufacturer tells us it will indeed be allowing visitors to touch the goods, albeit with the usual healthcare precautions taking place.

We’ll have a full ‘TPS’ report in our next (November cover dated) edition, of course – just one of two remaining issues to be published before Christmas – but, for now, we’d like to draw your attention to the contents of this one. One of the biggest stories this past month has been the acquisition of Intro 2020 by Holdan, part of the Midwich Group, and we’ve further details on just what that means for the rest of the trade from those involved. After a relatively quiet summer we’re also seeing the typical Septembertimed rush to announce goods that will be on sale this autumn in the allimportant run-up to the gifting season; we could barely fit all the Fuji news into the page 6 slot we’ve given it, to take just one example. Elsewhere, Elinchrom, MAC Group, Tetenal, Hahnemühle, DPS Group and Tamron likewise update us, while we share who won what in this year’s EISA trade awards. r o f y nuall NEWS n Plenty to digest as usual; a e PI crib so make yourself a brew, pull Subs or ‘BUY B £3 cover £30 e our , via up a chair and dive in.

NLY onat t

ORT SUPP ONLY R YOU E MAG! D TRA

O d oa EW’ & eep us afl ws A BR k to bpine / e e c i r m . p al .payp www

:

NOW

2

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

BPI News | September / October 2021 3

News

INTERCHANGEABLE LENS ‘VLOG’ CAMERA IS SONY FIRST Building on its popular ZV-1 camera aimed at the online blogging or ‘vlogging’ community, the electronics behemoth has launched the APS-C sensor equipped Sony ZV-E10. Described as the first Alpha series interchangeable lens ‘vlog’ camera, as one might anticipate from a glance at the rest of the manufacturer’s line up it also features a Bionz X processor alongside its 24.2 megapixel chip.

Claimed to be optimised for video creators, vlogging-specific features found in the ZV-1 have been carried over, including Background Defocus to smoothly switch between a blurred and sharp background, as well as a Product Showcase Setting that allows the camera to automatically shift focus from a subject’s

face to an object being highlighted.

“The new ZV-E10 pairs the versatility and excellent image quality of a largesensor interchangeable lens camera with user-friendly features that are specifically designed for vlogging, making it an ideal tool for video creators looking to transition to a more advanced set up,” believes Sony Europe’s Director of Product Marketing Yann Salmon Legagneur.

With a side opening vari-angle LCD allowing for creators to connect external microphones on top of the camera, a further feature being trumpeted is its lightweight form factor at a portable 343g.

The ZV-E10 was launched at the end of August and retails for a suggested £680, while a bundle that adds an E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS zoom lens is available at £770 SRP. To coincide, up until September 27th the manufacturer is running its second annual Sony Vlog Challenge Contest, which

requests video creators in Europe create a vlog that highlights something they are enthusiastic and passionate about. www.sony.net/united/ sonyvlogchallenge/europe/en/

COMING ‘ZOOM’: SONY E-MOUNT TAMRON LENS TRIO September is usually a busy time for new product announcements in the photo trade, and even in a pandemic, the new gear keeps on coming. Aimed at users of Sony’s E-mount is the Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD (middle pic), which we covered the announcement of last issue and are now told is available from Sept 24th, with the version already promised for Fujifilm X mount users arriving ‘later this year’.

Recommended retail price is £679.99, with distribution being handled by Transcontinenta UK.

Photographic British

Industry

In related Tamron news, the distributor tells us two further Sony E-mount lenses are currently in development in the 35-150mm f/2-

2.8 Di III VXD (left), described as the world’s first mirrorless zoom lens with a maximum wide-open aperture of f/2, plus the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (right), which is a second generation fast aperture standard zoom for the Sony E-mount. Availability for both of these lenses is promised ‘within 2021’. See also the advert on page 2 for the burgeoning range. www.tamron.co.uk

Supported by

news

4 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

News

Intro 2020 business & assets acquired by Holdan As the effects of the Covid crisis play themselves out, we’ve entered a period of mergers and acquisitions for the photo trade. The latest to change ownership is distributor Intro 2020.

It’s had its business and certain assets acquired

by Holdan Limited, a subsidiary of Midwich Group PLC. Holdan offers pan European tech distribution for the pro video, broadcast and media industry and says the move ‘strengthens and extends Holdan’s imaging & photographic offering, perfectly complementing our broadcast and professional portfolio.’

The photo trade will be aware that Intro 2020 was originally established back in 1971, and has carried brands including CamRanger, Cokin, Cotton carrier, Hoya, Kenko, Lenspen, Op/Tech, Plustek, Samyang, Slik, Steiner, Summit, Tamrac and Velbon. Its founder Norman Harrington passed away last year.

Keith Ruffell, Intro 2020 MD, who now takes up the role of Commercial Manager at Holdan, says: “I am delighted that we have been able to reach a deal for Intro 2020 to become part of Holdan.

This not only secures the future of our business, but also opens up a bright future of growth with the backing of a large, successful multi-national company. Our brands and products have great synergy with those that Holdan already offer and we look forward to providing a bigger and

even better service to our valuable customers.”

Holdan MD Allan Leonhardsen comments: “Intro 2020’s extensive imaging portfolio and established client base in the professional photography segment is extremely attractive to Holdan as they perfectly complement our broadcast & professional video offerings. Strategic acquisitions such as this allow Holdan to take full advantage of emerging segment crossover opportunities to maximise revenue going forward.”

While BPI News understands that the Intro 2020 name will live on as an imaging division within the Midwich Group, any sales queries should be directed to sales@holdan.co.uk or call 01457 851000. For more on this story, please see our page 13 article.

In related news, former Intro 2020 regional Sales Manager Paul Williams has been in touch to tell us he’s taken retirement after “30 plus happy and productive years” with Intro 2020. He tells the trade: “I want to express my sincerest gratitude for the excellent support that you and your colleagues have offered me over the years and the friendship we have shared. With regards to the team at Intro and others; I will miss them all and I wish them every success under the wing of Holdan.” www.holdan.co.uk

NIKON’S THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW PLANS With the first ‘TPS’ since March 2019 due to take place at the NEC later this month, the photo stalwart has revealed its stand will once again be hosting a roster of photography talks across the four days. Naturally its full ‘Z’ series camera and lens line up will also be on display, allowing visitors to get hands on with the Z fc and the new Z series macro lenses. Alongside Nikon School Trainers Neil Freeman and Ricci Chera, the line up for the Nikon School Stage features maternity photographer Tianna Williams, wildlife photographers Harry Skeggs and Andy Parkinson, wedding photographers Gurvir Johal and Frøydis Geithus, plus landscape photographer Nigel Danson, portrait photographer Carolyn Mendelsohn and video production company Beyond Content. Find Nikon at the show on stand B600. www.nikon.co.uk

Value what you’re reading here? Then ‘Buy BPI a brew’ to help us continue publication. Donate via www.paypal.me/bpinews

UK STOCK - NEXT DAY DELIVERY £50 MINIMUM ORDER - £100 CARRIAGE PAID

YEARS WARRANTY

0870 609 2233 @bpi_news

www.ansmann.co.uk

info@ansmann.co.uk BPI News | September / October 2021 5

BPI News Extra

FUJIFILM DEBUTS MEDIUM FORMAT FOR LESS THAN £4K An ‘affordable’ GFX and lens kit, a new ‘X’ series camera, plus a shedload of lens releases and development announcements see Fuji roaring into autumn with gusto

F

ujifilm has revealed up to 10 new products being rolled out from now until 2023. Firstly, inform your medium format camera aspiring customers that its five-year-old GFX 50S has been replaced with the GFX 50S II (below, left). With the GFX 50R now also discontinued, the Mark II iteration of the GFX 50S retains a 51.4 megapixel sensor 43.8x32.9mm in size yet adds an X-Processor 4, while, says Fujifilm UK’s Group Marketing Manager for Imaging Solutions Andreas Georghiades: “it has gone on a bit of a diet and shrunk down a fair bit.” As well as being more compact and lightweight, the price is smaller too. SRP is £3499 body only, or it’s £3899 bundled with equally new GF3570mm f/4.5-5.6 WR kit lens. “That’s an unheard of price for a medium format camera with a lens,” Andreas continues.

“The kit is the big opportunity for us.”

While making medium format more affordable than ever, contrast AF and low light performance is said to have been given a boost with this iteration, which features the same weather resistant magnesium alloy body as the 100S (“the only difference is the panel on the side,” adds Andreas).

Image stabilisation is claimed to provide an equivalent 6.5 stops and, for those able to keep the camera really still, there’s the offering of a 205MP pixel shift mode. A familiar PASM control wheel features as does a 3.69 million dot OLED EVF, which, in our brief try-out delivers an experience best described as life-like. Further making life easier is a 3-way tilting (but not flip out) LCD and new AF joystick, as well as dual SD card slots, a 3.5mm microphone/headphone input and a NPW235 battery good for around 455 frames (an improvement over the 50S’s 400 frames). In total, Fuji says the new camera features over 79 upgraded functions.

In terms of where the GFX 50S II sits in the line up, Fuji suggests it will appeal to landscape and portrait photographers, sitting beneath the GFX 100, which it says is more suited to commercial and fashion photography, and the GFX 100S,

55mm kit. Specifications include 26.1 MP sensor, X-Processor 4 and 1.62 million dot back screen; Fuji admitting the LCD resolution is the only external difference from its predecessor. Newly added on the inside however are Classic Neg and Eterna Bleach Bypass film simulation modes, with AF and face and eye detection capability of identical spec to the X-T4. Completing the package is Full HD 240P high-speed video recording.

aimed at landscape, portrait and sports photographers. While the GFX 50S II features video capability, this is Full HD rather than the 4K offered by its bigger brothers. That said its contrast rapid AF functionality delivers a 0.272 second response. Both body-only and camera plus lens kits are available September 23rd. The new lens will also be available

standalone from this November, at £849 SRP. Additionally, a new GF lens roadmap details three more new lenses in development: a GF20-35mm zoom due in 2022, a much requested tilt/ shift lens plus a GF55mm f/1.7, both due 2023. No further details for now.

RETURN OF THE ‘X’ ‘X’ series camera and lens fans haven’t been forgotten. Coming this October in black or silver is the X-T30 II (above, right), at £769 SRP body-only, £849 with 15-45mm lens or £1099 with the 18-

Everything on the table: Fuji UK’s Andreas Georghiades with new 33mm lens (left) and PR Manager Jeannie Corby with new GFX 50S II on right

A handful of new ‘X’ series lenses are on the way too. Available September 23rd is the XF33mm f/1.4 R LM WR at £699 SRP. A new addition to the range, it offers the equivalent of 50mm in 35mm terms, has a 30cm minimum focus, fast and silent AF thanks to the use of a linear motor and weighs 360g. This and the XF23mm f/1.4 R LM WR (below, left), replacing its previous iteration, are both weather resistant. The 23mm offers 19cm minimum focus, is constructed from 15 elements in 10 groups, offers a 58mm filter size, weighs 375g and is available November at £819 SRP. “This new generation of lenses is future proofing for high resolution sensors,” reveals Andreas.

Again, Fuji has updated its lens roadmap and shared two new zoom lenses in development, promised sometime next year: the XF150600mm (229-914mm equivalent) and XF18-120mm (27-183mm equivalent), the ‘hybrid’ latter of which caters to both stills and video shooters.

For more on the latest gear be sure to visit Fujifilm on stand J500 at The Photography Show. www.fujifilm.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 6 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BOOK TICKET S N OW

18-21 SEPTEMBER 2021, THE NEC BIRMINGHAM

WE’RE BACK AT THE NEC THIS AUTUMN THE EVENT FOR EVERYONE PASSIONATE ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY AND MOVING IMAGE Free entry for pros and members of photography trade*

V I S I T P H OTO GRA P HYS HOW.CO M/B P I TO BO O K

*Professional photographers, videographers and image-making industry representatives can apply for FREE entry to the show.

All applications will be verified against specific criteria and must be made before 15 September 2021.

BPI News Extra

EISA AWARD WINNERS 2021-2022 Started in 1982, each year the Expert Imaging and Sound Association, made up of 60 technology magazines, websites and social media commentators from 29 countries, singles out the coolest tech around. We survey what it highlighted this year in the category of ‘photography’… and what it omitted

A

wards are always good as an extra carrot for both manufacturers and specialist retailers to tempt a purchase from their photographer customers, as well as offering a curated selection of what’s supposedly worth looking at. With commentators noting the lack of any Olympus or Panasonic gear among the winners this year, other familiar names were nevertheless well represented amongst those garlanded by EISA in mid August.

Heading up four awards from EISA for the photo stalwart this time around – and all for its burgeoning ‘Z’ mirrorless system as opposed to any DSLR – was the Nikon Z 6II, named Best Advanced Camera, while its Nikon Z 5 took Best Buy Camera (Full Frame). The judges raved: “It’s very pleasant to use and overall the best value full frame camera on the market.” Best Professional Telephoto Zoom Lens was the Nikkor Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S, according to the committee of experts, while the Nikkor Z MC 50mm f/2.8 picked up Best Macro Lens.

Bagging two wins this year, and interestingly also for its own mirrorless camera system, was its arch rival. The Canon EOS R5 nabbed Best Premium Camera with the compatible Canon RF 100 f/2.8L Macro IS USM taking the prestigious Best Lens Innovation.

Also getting two mentions from the EISA experts was Fujifilm, with its GFX 100S (top) being named Best Professional camera and the Fujifilm X-S10 being awarded Best Buy Camera (APS-C).

Of the latter the EISA panel said: “All in all the Fujifilm X-S10 is an excellent camera at an affordable price.”

Sony’s lenses were also in the experts’ prize giving frame, with Best Wideangle Lens given to the Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 GM, Best Wideangle Zoom Lens (Full Frame) going to the Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM, and Best Standard Lens won by the Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM.

Big names are back in the frame with the EISA judges, though DSLR has clearly been squeezed out this year in favour of mirrorless

HARDWARE IN THE SPOTLIGHT A trio of awards this time went to popular lens brand Tamron, as distributed by Transcontinenta UK. In fact its 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD picked up Lens of the Year from EISA. The judges said: “For enthusiast photographers who use Sony cameras with APS-C sensors and are in search of a high quality zoom, this might be the perfect choice.” This award was joined by the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A EXD winning Best Wideangle Zoom Lens (APS-C) and its 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD picking up Best Telephoto Zoom lens, making it a good year for the manufacturer.

Not to be outdone, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art lens (below) was highlighted as Best Portrait Lens. The judges said: “Sigma has created a lens that redefines portrait photography. Designed specifically for full frame mirrorless cameras, it produces beautiful artistic bokeh that will satisfy both professional and advanced amateur photographers.”

Industry number two Sony wasn’t left out in the cold either. Camera of the Year went to the Sony Alpha 1, with its Sony Alpha 7S III named as Best Photo/Video Camera.

Third party manufacturer Laowa likewise got a couple of nods this year.

Best Manual Lens went to the Laowa Argus 33mm f/0.95 CF APO while the award for Best Special Purpose Lens was given to its 15mm f/4.5 Zero-D Shift.

Best Photo Service went to CEWE Photoworld, while Best Photo Printer was named as the Epson SureColor SC-P700. Of the latter, the experts said: “This A3+ printer allows professional and ambitious amateur photographers to make long lasting prints of their most-cherished images.”

For more background on all of the above wins and more besides, please direct your browser to https://eisa.eu/awards/photography/

Value what you’re reading here? Then ‘Buy BPI a brew’ to help us continue publication. Donate via www.paypal.me/bpinews 8 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Advertorial

TETENAL LOOK TO THE FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE The Leicester based distributor has faced challenges like everyone else during this difficult time but sees a promising future ahead with the addition of some new faces to the team.

Throughout the pandemic, the Leicester based distributor continued to service the needs of the UK photographic print industry and remained in constant communication with their customers through phone calls and a series of informative e-newsletters. We chat to Marketing Manager Craig Bird to see how the business has fared over the past 18 months and how they are looking to a positive future.

Hello Craig, it's been a tough period for the UK photographic industry and retail in particular, how have Tetenal managed through the pandemic?

Hello! Yes I think it's safe to say that these have been challenging times for everyone in the industry but we met the challenges head on and decided to remain open throughout the whole pandemic, albeit with reduced staff numbers, to ensure we could offer continuity of service to our customers who needed us.

It sounds like an exciting time for Tetenal.

To be honest, it is. In consultation with all of our staff, we've recently published a new Corporate Vision with the tagline of "Proud of our Past - Driven by our Future".

We've set in place some Core Values and a shared vision for where we want to take the business whilst encouraging all of our team to continue to develop, both personally and professionally.

It's more important than ever in this day and age to be respectful and supportive employers and this in turn will hopefully help the business, and the individuals within it, to thrive.

Beth Perkins Southern Account Manager

Kevin Steptoe Technical Sales Manager

Completing the new arrivals is Kevin who brings with him a wealth of experience, gained over many years in the photographic industry, predominantly with Mitsubishi, to Tetenal as our new Technical Sales Manager.

All have fitted in superbly and brought with them fresh ideas and boundless enthusiasm to add to the strength that was already here.

So what does the future look like for Tetenal and what is your message to the industry?

I think the future for both is extremely bright and our message is a positive one.

Consumer facing businesses will have to continue to adapt to how people have become accustomed to shopping so retail needs to be even more about the customer experience than it was before, but that presents an opportunity as well as a challenge.

Have you implemented many changes to the business during this period?

It may be a cliche but any business really is only as good as the people who work in it and we've been able to take a step back to look at where we could implement new practices for the benefit of our team whilst also bringing in additional knowledge and fresh thinking with a number of key additions to the company.

Gemma Astbury Analogue Product Manager

We've also refreshed our office space, improving our Inkjet Room and creating a new Analogue Room to reflect the continued growth in that area of the business.

We're a company who have always prided ourselves on customer service and value and the enforced lockdown gave us the opportunity to look at the business, assess where we were and where we wanted to be in the future.

Tetenal has always been a company that is forward thinking and in MD Mike Fawcett and the rest of the Management Team we have people who are constantly looking at ways to improve the business.

Aren Roache Marketing Content Creator

You mentioned you've added new members to the team, can you tell us a little more about that?

Yes indeed! Our long standing Account Manager Mark Wilkins is now enjoying a well earned retirement but our new additions bring a wealth of photographic and print knowledge with them.

Analogue photography continues to be a growth area with film stock disappearing off our shelves as soon as it arrives, such is the demand. With that in mind we appointed Gemma as our new Analogue Product Manager to deal with all our key photographic dealers.

Beth joins us as our new Account Manager for the South, whilst Aren is responsible for producing content for use across all our marketing activities including the website which is continually being developed and improved.

Photography is as popular as ever and as we've mentioned, analogue really has seen a phenomenal revival as people crave the physical nature of the medium following years of digital dominance.

The industry can rest assured that Tetenal will continue to adapt and move forwards, being that consistent and dependable companion throughout whatever challenges the future may throw our way.

We are always happy to help and advise customers, new and old alike. Our new appointments have given us fresh impetus and Tetenal as a company will never stand still.

Change is in our DNA and that's what continues to give us the drive and enthusiasm to keep delivering the best possible experience for our customers.

Tetenal • Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1WX • 0116 2893644 • www.tetenaluk.com NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | September / October 2021 9

News

SIGMA INTRODUCES FILM BRAND SPORTS LINE’S FIRST ULTRA TELEPHOTO ZOOM KONO ON A ROLL Already available is a new telephoto zoom for both frame L-Mount and Sony E-mount cameras from the third part lens specialist, in the shape of the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS, which slots into its ‘Sports’ family of lenses at a cool £1,199.99 SRP. Claimed by Sigma to have been designed

exclusively for mirrorless, full frame cameras, it further claims this is, in fact, its first ever Sports line lens for mirrorless systems. It can be used with Sigma’s 1.4x and 2x L-Mount teleconverters, with AF effective up to 1200mm. A dust and splash resistant structure, customisable switches, plus a Dual Action Zoom system also feature. www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

German based Kono has introduced a 35mm iteration of its new Kono! Delight Art 100 roll film – we previously featured the 120 medium format version in our June 21 issue. Just like that original release, this second offering in its Delight line is claimed to be based on first class professional film stock and boasts ‘intense colours, the finest grain and a very unique look.’ Each roll is carefully tinted by professionals and is hand made in Germany.

The brand is distributed

by SJF Photographic (www.sjfphoto.co.uk) in the UK.

Capix Ltd Hosts Worldwide Launch of The Colenta Roboline Film Processor at The Photography Show

A

s previously reported, Capix Ltd will host the worldwide launch of the RoboLine Film Processor from Colenta at the upcoming Photography Show. A totally new and unique concept in ‘Dip and Dunk’ film processing, RoboLine allows batch processing of B&W, C41 & E6 films. The processor can always be ready and online for both B&W & C41 and separately for E6! The patented, fully robotic transport system and microprocessor process control ensures safe and accurate processing to exacting film manufacturers’ specifications.

Key Advantages of the Colenta RoboLine Film Processor:

Flexible in use – C41, B/W & E6 within one unit!

Small Tank Volumes

Low operating cost

Small Footprint

Uses Smart & Intelligent Technologies

Moderate Investment Level

Get in touch with Capix to take advantage of the demand for film processing, and boost revenue with the Colenta EcoLine and RoboLine processors

Also on display at The NEC will be the latest Colenta EcoLine Processor. Designed specifically for Photographers, Labs, Colleges, and Universities, the EcoLine represents incredible value for all your photographic paper processing needs.

You can see the Colenta RoboLine Processor on Stand E401 at The Photography Show or get in touch with Capix NOW on 01480 472233 or email info@capix.co.uk www.capix.co.uk

Get in touch with Capix NOW on 01480 472233 or email info@capix.co.uk. Visit www.capix.co.uk 10 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Product Focus

Elinchrom helps photographers find the ‘ONE’ Exclusively distributed by the LUMESCA Group, the lighting brand has an exciting new offering for photographers and retailers in the unique and future facing Elinchrom ONE

A

s regular readers will be aware, fast-rising distributor LUMESCA Group acquired The Flash Centre, and with it the Elinchrom lighting brand, in late 2020. Now the first major launch to bear the Elinchrom name since its sale has appeared in the portable and lightweight ‘ONE’; an aptly-named product indeed, given the new era for the company.

The name also resonates via the fact that this is Elinchrom’s first battery powered monolight. Claimed to be a long requested product, it’s been born from what’s bravely described as a companywide effort to step out of its collective comfort zone, in an attempt to define the brand’s modern identity and mark the start of Elinchrom’s next chapter.

THE ‘SHAPE’ OF THINGS TO COME As any photographer learns quickly, the ability to work with and control light is at the heart of what makes a good photograph a great one. Boasting a low profile and a minimal footprint, the Elinchrom ONE provides the versatility to add an off-camera flash with light shaping capabilities to any photographer’s kit bag. Its design is based around an unconcealed flash tube for optimal light spread. Weighing 1.5Kg and being similar in size to a 70-200mm lens, the pitch is that the ONE is ready to travel anywhere and everywhere with your photographer customers.

Part of this portability is thanks to the device utilising an internal lithium ion battery, which can

conveniently use any USB-C source for recharging, meaning photographers on the go aren’t tied down to any proprietary spare batteries or a mains power source.

In terms of power, the Elinchrom ONE impresses in being capable of a generous 725 full power flashes from a single charge – or of course it can be hooked up to a mains power source, so shooting can continue whilst charging the device and whatever the battery’s current power level.

There’s efficiency here too. Designed to enable photographers to be able to achieve more for less, the device’s 131W capacity is claimed to generate a light output more typically seen from 200W+ units.

At one metre and ISO100, it can achieve f/11.9 with the Diffusion Dome attached.

A further selling point is that, in being designed for use with the newly developed Elinchrom OCF modifier mount, the ‘ONE’ is also natively compatible with most Profoto OCF light shapers, thus greatly expanding photographers’

Above: Campaign image captured by photographer Brenda Bavan (shown right) using the Elinchrom ONE

access to available light shaping tools. Designed for versatility yet speed with it, an included Elinchrom OCF to Bayonet adapter enables quick mounting to speed-rings and reflectors that use the traditional Elinchrom Bayonet.

Operation is similarly swift and streamlined, thanks to a newly designed menu structure and a touchscreen interface – thus enabling photographers to avoid missing that decisive moment.

Available now, the Elinchrom ONE has an SRP of £799, while further good news for photo retailers is that there are further compatible accessories to piggyback on a sale. Accessories, including an Elinchrom OCF Diffusion Dome, OCF Adapter, 20000mAH 18W Power Bank, ONE Case and ONE Backpack, start at just £50 SRP. Find out more at www.LUMESCA.com

Your Elinchrom ONE crib sheet:

Portable at a weight of 1.5Kg and of similar size to a 70-200mm lens

Integrated lithium ion batteries provide up to 725 full power flashes on a single charge (via USB-C charge port)

Active charging, enabling photographers to continue shooting while the battery is being replenished

Natively compatible with Profoto OCF light shapers and the regular Elinchrom Bayonet mount via an included adapter

Touch screen interface, making for quicker operation and adjustments

Fast recycle time of 0.9 seconds at full power, maintaining a +/- 150K colour temperature

Removable tilt head and smart, ‘pro-active’ cooling; in other words learning the photographer’s shooting style and adapting its cooling cycle around it

Trade customers should get in touch directly by calling 0330 440 0189 or emailing sales@lumesca.com NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | September / October 2021 11

BPI News Extra

HOLDAN & INTRO 2020: A POWERFUL COMBINATION One of the largest trade suppliers for the pro video, broadcast and AV markets has acquired Intro 2020. BPI News learns how this benefits both parties, as well as our wider industry

A

s the effects of the Covid crisis play themselves out, we’ve entered a period of mergers and acquisitions for the photo trade. The latest to change ownership is distributor Intro 2020, which has had its business and certain assets acquired by Holdan Limited, a subsidiary of Midwich Group PLC. Holdan offers pan European tech distribution for the pro video, broadcast and media industry and says that the move strengthens and extends Holdan’s imaging and photographic offering, perfectly complementing its broadcast and professional portfolio.

The photo trade will be aware that Intro 2020 was originally established back in 1971, and, as one of the country’s leading suppliers of photo imaging and pro video gear has carried brands including CamRanger, Cokin, Cotton Carrier, Hoya, Kenko, Lenspen, Op/Tech, Plustek, Samyang, Slik, Steiner, Summit, Tamrac and Xeen. Its founder Norman Harrington passed away last year.

As part of the Midwich Group, Holdan has its own high profile brands to bring to the table. These include Atomos, BirdDog, Datavideo, Panasonic and Roland. Intro 2020 products form the backbone of the new ‘Imaging Solutions’ division which will be enhanced with more brands going forward. The aim is to offer the trade a ‘one-stop shop’ for photo and video solutions. Additional brands are, of course, being made instantly available to existing Intro 2020 customers who are reading this, thus providing very welcome continuity in uncertain times.

STRONG GROWTH POTENTIAL Intro 2020’s General Manager Keith Ruffell has now taken up the role of Commercial Manager at Holdan, and reassures the trade: “I am delighted that we have been able to reach a deal for Intro 2020 to become part of Holdan.

This not only secures the future of our business, but also opens up a bright future of growth with the backing of a large, successful multi-national company. Our brands and products have great synergy with those Holdan already offers and we look forward to providing a bigger and even better service to our valuable customers.”

For his part, Holdan MD Allan Leonhardsen adds: “Intro 2020’s extensive imaging portfolio and established client base in the professional photography segment is extremely attractive to Holdan, as they perfectly complement our broadcast and professional video offerings. Strategic acquisitions such as this allow Holdan to take full advantage of emerging

Strategic acquisitions such as this allow Holdan to take full advantage of emerging segment crossover opportunities to maximise revenue going forward” Holdan MD Allan Leonhardsen

Holdan is now your one-stop shop for a host of key photo & video brands, including: Atomos, BirdDog, Cokin, 12 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Extra

Formerly an Intro 2020 brand, Korean lens specialist Samyang is one of the key brands now falling under the Holdan umbrella with the recent acquisition, as is the popular Cokin NX filter series, shown boxed bottom left

®

I am delighted that we have been able to reach a deal for Intro 2020 to become part of Holdan. This not only secures the future of our business, but also opens up a bright future of growth with the backing of a large, successful multi-national company” Intro 2020’s former General Manager Keith Ruffell

Exciting video solutions, such as those provided by Atomos’ Shinobi monitor (left) and the very portable Roland V-8HD video switcher (shown right), are now available immediately to Intro 2020’s existing customer base in the photo trade

segment crossover opportunities to maximise revenue going forward.”

It’s clear to see that the combination of Holdan and Intro 2020 is a powerful one – and will continue to create opportunities going forward. With strong growth plans in place as regards the cine and broadcast markets, with growing popularity for the likes of Xeen lenses, there is the promise of more brands coming on board soon.

Visitors to The Photography Show on September 18th through 21st will have the opportunity to discuss all of the above with the team, who can be found on an impressive 100 square metre stand (floor location H404); surely a statement of intent, if ever there was one that underlines the new ‘Imaging Solutions’ division’s aim to offer a ‘one stop shop’.

While BPI News understands that the Intro 2020 name will live on as an imaging division within the Midwich Group, the trade should direct any current and future sales queries to sales@holdan.co.uk or call 01457 851000. www.holdan.co.uk

Datavideo, Hoya, Panasonic, Roland, Samyang, Tamrac and many, many more! Visit www.holdan.co.uk NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | September / October 2021 13

BPI Product Focus

ENJOY ‘STEADY’ SALES WITH SARAMONIC FROM MAC GROUP With everyone stuck at home for parts of the pandemic, the world of blogging –particularly video blogs, or ‘vlogs’ – has exploded over the past 18 months. Never a better time then to add the new Saramonic VGM Stabilisation Kit with Vmic Mini microphone to stock, aimed at this very market…

S

ocial media experts suggest those of us scrolling through our favourite feeds are more likely to stop and watch videos than any other content type.

Luckily for anyone looking to promote a business and/or product range in this way, there’s a new solution from the Saramonic brand, the experts in audio for video.

Distributed by MAC Group Europe, the Saramonic VGM Stabilisation Kit with Vmic Mini microphone should be pitched to your customers as a complete all-inone stabilisation, accessory mounting rig and microphone bundle. Aimed at users of cameras and smartphones – so, pretty much everyone – it’s a no brainer to imagine this product offering plentiful sales opportunities for specialist photo retailers, electronics outlets and more.

As well as smartphones, the versatile and flexible Saramonic VGM solution can accommodate DSLRs, mirrorless and action cameras plus a variety of shooting styles – providing the ability to capture great sound, steady video and utilise accessories into the bargain. The result? More cinematic and professional looking and sounding footage for content creators – meaning they’re more likely to get the attention and engagement they’re seeking from fellow social media users.

THE ONLY RIG ‘VLOGGERS’ NEED

Saramonic VGM Stabilisation Kit at-a-glance:

All metal construction with rugged integrated shock mount

Features an on-board Saramonic Vmic Mini broadcast quality cardioid condenser mini shotgun microphone

Both TRS and TRRS output cables are supplied for quick and easy connection to any device

Delivers crystal clear audio to cameras with a 3.5mm mic input and smartphones with a 3.5mm headphone jack

Mobile devices with no headphone jack can be paired with an optional Lightning or USB-C dongle

Maximum weight capacity of 5Kg

Numerous accessory mounting 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

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

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

Even if content creators’ smartphones don’t feature a headphone jack, optional adapters are available.

Plus, when it comes to accessories that can be mounted on the rig, there’s the option to include an LED light, audio mixer, power bank, wireless microphone receiver, monitor and more – even at the same time – to bring a higher quality level to videos. For added versatility and extendibility, the VGM features a shoe mount top rail, sliding bottom rails and cold shoe mounts, while both handgrips feature bottom threads, allowing the VGM to be mounted on a tripod or stand. What’s more, an included

wrist strap offers a further degree of stability for those shooting hand held.

The manufacturer adds that the set up can be adjusted from a minimum width of 4.72 inches to a maximum width of 12.4-inches within seconds, meaning that the options, it says, are almost limitless.

Like anything from Saramonic and MAC Group, the device comes at a very affordable price of just £114 SRP; making it an easy sale.

Saramonic Product Marketing Manager Jit Soni, concludes: “The VGM Stabilisation Kit with Vmic Mini microphone provides pin-sharp stabilisation and crystal-clear sound capture at a fraction of what you might usually expect to pay for this level of performance. Saramonic has always prided itself on delivering genuinely class-leading performance without a stratospheric price tag to match, and delivers just that with this kit. We believe it will be a hit with creators looking for a versatile, robust set-up and intuitive operation that they can rely on no matter what their subject.”

For stock of Saramonic products, contact MAC Group direct on 01902 255500 or via info@macgroupeu.com

For stock of the Saramonic VGM Stabilisation Kit or to find out more, head to www.saramonicuk.com 14 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Product Focus

DPS GROUP & EPSON ‘GIFT’ YOU PRE-CHRISTMAS PROFIT Get ready for Christmas demand now by installing Epson’s wide format 24-inch SC-P7500 and 44-inch SC-P9500 printers. Both are ideal for producing photo gifts and canvas prints – with further incentives offered via Print & Save and Photolease schemes

W

ith the autumn term underway, before we know it another Christmas and all the unrivalled sales possibilities it brings will be upon us. Now’s the perfect time to be bolstering your print and photo gifting offerings via Epson’s flagship SureColor P7500 and P9500 printers.

Manessh Patel, MD of Epson reseller the DPS Group, advises seriously considering both workhorse options.

“The 7500 and 9500 are brilliant, cost effective replacement printers for the hundreds, maybe thousands of Epson, Canon and HP large format printers already in retailers that are definitely due an upgrade. Launched last year, these Epson models will improve productivity, provide even higher quality prints and save users money, as they are more efficient than previous generations.”

Both P7500 and P9500 printers boast a solid, proven build and the flexibility of printing on fine art paper, canvases, photo paper and more. The media the printers deploy – also available direct from the DPS Group – is likewise worth highlighting. The 12 colour Ultrachrome Pro ink set with K3 technology offers exceptional dynamic range and can be individually replaced if the inks run low, meaning that there’s no more choosing between ink sets. Speed and accuracy is also guaranteed. The machines’ print heads use up to 800 nozzles for each colour, to produce accurate dot placement and eliminate misprints, while printing up to 4.3x faster.

Epson’s flagship SureColor P7500 and P9500 printers will boost your print and photo gifting options, while the cost of investing in either can be spread over three years if required

DREAM SCHEMES As an extra incentive to arrange installation of the printers, why not take advantage of the tax efficient Photolease scheme if you want to spread the cost and ease any impact on your cash flow? This allows the outlay for your new printer to be spread across three years, avoiding the need to tie up large bundles of your business’ cash in these continuing times of Covid-19 uncertainty.

“Why not lease them instead of buying?” Adds Maneesh. “Paying the monthly rentals will be easy

after just a handful of prints and canvases are charged for.”

On top of this, a second scheme in Print & Save is for businesses able to estimate how much ink they’re going to use over a three-year period and is a contract with Epson, facilitated by the DPS Group. If you make that commitment, you’ll get a better price, with extended printer warranty support too.

“A set direct debit goes out every month to Epson; it’s as straightforward as a phone contract,” Maneesh explains. “Via Epson‘s secure online portal, dealers request ink, maintenance tanks and other supplies up to the contracted value, plus there is the peace of mind of Epson’s three-year enhanced warranty. It’s for discerning companies and customers and is a very beneficial way to give customers lower prices for ink and supplies, as well as full support and warranty on any new printers purchased.” Under the Epson Print & Save direct debit scheme the

A comprehensive ink set can deliver 99% Pantone coverage for increased accuracy when it comes to print

customer merely logs on to a web portal to ask for, for example, five ink sets to be delivered, and Epson will ship them out.

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

Epson SC-P7500 & SC-P9500 at a glance: Both wide format printers offer identical class-leading features, including:

12-colour ink set delivers Epson’s widest ever colour gamut with 99% Pantone coverage for increased accuracy

Advanced print heads use up to 800 nozzles for each colour

High speed & quality are combined, thanks to a μTFP12 print head with 300dpi resolution and 12 channels

4.3-inch touch panel LCD with a range of configuration options

Deeper blacks achieved via black enhancement over-coating technology, producing even more striking and dramatic prints

Support given for fine art papers, canvases, photo paper and more

Go big on print in 2021. Contact the DPS Group about Epson’s ‘P’ series on 020 8466 7230 or email sales@dpsb.co.uk NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | September / October 2021 15

News

CANON EYES COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2022 Hot on the heels of the Tokyo Olympics, Canon has announced it will supply athletes and organisers of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, due to take place in Birmingham, with on-site medical imaging services and dedicated camera support to help bring the games to more than 1.5bn viewers worldwide, while also nurturing a new generation of sports fans as the ‘Official Imaging Supporter’ of the games.

Ian Reid, CEO at Birmingham 2022, says: “We are delighted to have Canon on board. Canon is a clear leader in imaging technologies and has an enviable pedigree when it comes to sports and leisure events and it is this that makes them the perfect partner to help us deliver a truly memorable edition of the Games.”

Staying with Canon and Birmingham, it has also announced its speaker line up for this year’s Photography Show, which will include a returning Chris Packham, along with photographers Camille Seaman, Sanjay Jogia, Brian Worley, Helen Bartlett, Eddie Keogh, Marc Aspland, Hanina Pinnick, Vladimir Rhys and Tina Elsen. Find Canon on stand N500/N400.

In related news, Canon Europe is hosting a series of virtual talks as part of the fifth year of its Canon Student Development Programme. Free and open to all, promised highlights include the manufacturer’s first ‘Thinking Social-First’ panel discussion,

exploring the possible opportunities and challenges social platforms can bring photographers of all levels.

Susie Donaldson, ITCG European Marketing Director for Canon EMEA says: “For the second year running, the Canon Student Development Programme is taking place entirely digitally, meaning our panel talks are easily accessible across the world and available to the widest pool of aspiring talent. Focusing on topics that we know are most relevant to those just starting out in their photography careers, we hope that these talks will be the stepping stone students need to make that

leap into the industry as professionals.”

Canon claims that since 2017 over 800 students have attended the Student Development Programme, with some going on to launch careers with the likes of The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.

Direct interested parties to sign up to listen in and be a part of the 2021 Canon Student Development Programme via: https://www.canon.co.uk/ student-development-programme/ www.canon.co.uk www.birmingham2022.com

Panasonic debuts one ‘L’ of a lens Alert your Leica or Panasonic-owning customers that there’s a new L-Mount lens available at the end of this month in the Lumix S 24mm f/1.8, which Panasonic describes as the third addition to a series of four f/1.8 large aperture lenses for the mount.

Compact and lightweight (at 310g) for its class, and claimed to be capable of smooth silent operation when twinned with the camera’s AF system, further features include a dust and splash resistant design and a construction comprised of 12 lens elements in 11 groups, including three aspherical lenses, three ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lens and one UED (Ultra Extra-Low Dispersion)

lens. Filter diameter is 67mm, with a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm.

SRP is £799.99. www.panasonic.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 16 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI News Product Focus

HAHNEMÜHLE AIMS TO GIVE PHOTOGRAPHERS A ‘NATURAL’ HIGH

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

D

igital FineArt brand Hahnemühle’s focus throughout the pandemic has been on the growing popularity of its TIPA Award winning Natural Line Digital FineArt papers. But the proof of the pudding is in the eating.

So it’s all the sweeter that this month the photo trade finally has a rare chance to get a hands-on opportunity with the media in question. Hahnemühle will be appearing at The Photography & Video Show from September 18th through 21st, and will be outputting prints using its Natural Line papers via Canon and Epson printers – arguably the two brands most commonly used by pro and enthusiast photographers – giving attendees the opportunity to be wowed up-close-and-personal.

As well as the promise of some enticing show-only offers, as an extra ‘carrot’ to draw the crowds, Hahnemühle’s stand G406 will be hosting celebrity portrait photographer Rory Lewis (pictured), who will be conducting halfhour-long shoots starting every day at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm. Attendees can then have a portrait print made on Natural Line paper to either take away as a memento or have posted to them.

As if the trade weren’t already convinced of an opportunity from

Hahnemühle Natural Line Digital FineArt papers at a glance:

Bamboo – a 290gsm thickness, 90% bamboo fibre, 10% cotton, natural white, smooth matt surface, highly lightfast and vegan

Hemp – again 290gsm, 60% hemp fibre, 40% cotton, white, smooth matt surface, highly lightfast and vegan

Agave – 290gsm, 70% agave fibre, 30% cotton, white textured matt surface, highly lightfast and vegan

All three of the above were jointly awarded ‘Best Inkjet Photo Paper’ in the TIPA World Awards 2020

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

Hahnemühle not to be missed, the company tells us several of Rory’s images of famous faces have been acquired by London’s National Portrait Gallery. His photography has also won the prestigious ‘Portrait of Britain’ for four years running and he’ll also be appearing under the banner of ‘Behind the Lens’ on the TPS rostrum on Saturday 18th from 1pm.

Interested parties are directed to book a place now on Rory’s portrait shoots, as space is limited, by heading to: www.surveymonkey.co.uk /r/RoryLewisPhotoShoots

PIN SHARP DETAIL, ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND Enthusiast and pro photographers – alongside retailers looking to stock Hahnemühle’s award winning Natural Line Digital FineArt range – will be impressed by the properties of the paper itself. A special coating delivers pin sharp details rich in colour, with deep blacks and excellent aging resistance.

Highly renewable raw materials involved in the paper’s construction include bamboo, hemp and agave, as indicated on the packaging (shown). These plants

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

So not only is Hahnemühle offering discerning photographers great quality prints, but also utilising materials that are sustainable and plentiful with it. For more, make a date to visit the team and talk to the experts at The Photography Show, while checking out the links below. www.hahnemuehle.co.uk www.rorylewis.studio

Make a date to check out the Hahnemühle Natural Line Digital FineArt paper range in person – and visit www.hahnemuehle.co.uk NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | September / October 2021 17

Are you supporting BPI News with a paid subscription?

Get ws BPI Ne to ed deliver or & your do r just fo in-box £3y0 r! per ea Part of the glue that binds together our industry, British Photographic Industry News has been with you through the thick and thin of the past 40 years, covering seismic shifts for the trade; including the transferal from film to digital and the changing face of retail, as the high street presence has expanded to involve a more multi-platform sales push.

With a lot of misinformation out there, a curated approach to the developments of the day and exclusive input from industry leaders is what continues to ensure the relevance of a trade-focused magazine. As we seek to guide you through choppy waters, you in turn can lend your support from just £30 per year.

Simply click through to www.paypal.me/bpinews to send your £30 subscription direct, or get in touch via gavin@bpinews.co.uk or info@bpinews.co.uk if you’d prefer to pay via bank transfer.

Photographic British

Industry

news

Product of the Month

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH: NIKON Z FC Our occasional series highlighting new releases of note returns, cutting through the Internet ‘noise’ with a curated pick of innovative equipment actually worth talking about…

I

t won’t have escaped anyone’s attention that with the rise in the popularity of everything analogue over the past decade, digital camera manufacturers too have looked to mine the supposedly rich ‘retro’ seam. These days it’s seemingly the more rangefinder-like wheels, dials and levers you can cram onto a camera the better, while at the same time making sure you offer touch screen control for anyone upgrading from a smartphone who wants to avoid all that. Nikon is the latest manufacturer to take inspiration from the past and re-imagine its 1980s era FM2 film SLR for the digital, mirrorless camera age in the Nikon Z fc.

Like its maker’s earlier Z 50 model, this latest 20.9 effective megapixel device opts for an APS-C sensor rather than the full frame chip of more expensive ‘Z’ series siblings. While some will moan this may dissuade the photo enthusiasts whose pupils widen at the sight of all the dials and levers from making a purchase, Nikon is hoping the camera has intergenerational appeal. If Dad or Mum used the FM2 back in the 1980s, now they can share the Z fc with their tech-savvy son or daughter. The smaller sensor has also allowed for a more affordable price of a body-only £899 on launch. The trade will be aware there are also a couple of lens kit options that bundle in a compact 16-50mm f/2.8 zoom in matching silver, or a fixed 28mm f/2.8 lens in regular black that nudges the combined price just north of £1K. When handling the camera it’s fair to say the Z fc’s top plate is fairly busy, with

Old dog, new tricks: Like Fujifilm and Olympus before it, Nikon has seen what works and has gone distinctly retro in looks and handling for its latest mirrorless camera

A camera you’ll want to ‘swan’ around with: punch-y colours and plenty of detail is delivered via the combination of the Z fc with bundled 28mm f/2.8 kit lens

just enough room to get a finger or thumb around the various dials and levers, and various functioning parts stacked one on top of the other to squeeze the most manual functionality possible onto its compact form. The familiar P,A,S,M functions, for example, are selected via a switch that sits beneath the dial for choosing ISO options, while the user swaps between stills capture and video via a lever beneath the dial for shutter speed. As a result there’s an initial short period of getting familiar with where everything is located required.

However when used for more general, everyday shooting, the results are far more impressive. The colours delivered are realistic, rich and warm, without being over saturated. When left on auto setting, particularly when it’s already sunny out, there is a tendency to overexpose, but this again is simply fixed with a quick turn

FULLY ARTICULATE Of course, practicality every camera released these days sub-£1000 has to have appeal for the video blogger and the Z fc is no exception, via the fact that its touch sensitive LCD can be full flipped out and rotated to face whoever is in front of the lens. The increased articulation of the screen is said to be a first for the ‘Z’ range.

What’s missing however for any newbies picking this up is anything approaching weather sealing, or a built-in pop-up flash, even if a hotshoe for accessory flash is provided, so it’s worth noting that core ISO sensitivity usefully reaches up to 52100, though additional ‘H1’ and ‘H2’ settings boost this up to the equivalent of ISO102400 or ISO204800.

Unsurprisingly, results at these top two settings are arguably unusable however.

of the top plate exposure compensation dial. As for low light performance, while photographers will want to steer away from the four uppermost settings to avoid results resembling Pointilist art paintings, we were pretty impressed with the Z fc’s performance.

In conclusion, Nikon’s earlier Z 50 with which the Z fc shares a lot of core features is still a great option for photographer customers wanting a modern-looking Nikon mirrorless. But if vintage bells-and-whistles hold an extra appeal and such nostalgia tweaks those heartstrings, then the Z fc is the one. www.nikon.co.uk

Value what you’re reading here? Then ‘Buy BPI a brew’ to help us continue publication. Donate via www.paypal.me/bpinews NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | September / October 2021 19

Business Advice

EXHIBITING SYMPTOMS OF SUCCESS With restrictions having relaxed, we’re back to a scenario where more than six people – indeed thousands – can now meet in person, and that means trade shows are once again a viable proposition. As it’s been a while, a refresher on how to maximise return from such events, whether as an exhibitor or visitor, won’t go amiss…

G

athering in an enclosed space with hundreds or indeed thousands of like-minded photography fans may seem slightly surreal when we’ve been away from that experience for so long. But, with the majority of the adult population now double vaccinated – and we’d hazard a guess that means practically everyone who’d normally attend the likes of The Photography Show or The Societies’ Convention & Trade Show next spring – such events are emerging from storeroom hibernation, after running various online-only stop-gap events to maintain interest and engagement.

While debate about possible ‘Covid passports’ in order to get into venues in future rages on, and there will doubtless be some understandable caution still on the minds of organisers, exhibitors and attendees – including staggered entry to control the flow of entrants, plus the regular wiping and disinfecting of kit – the aim of those we’ve spoken to is to get back to as close to ‘normal’ (read ‘the new normal’) a show scenario as possible. This means that, if you’re approaching a trade show from a business perspective – namely, in wanting to improve your own business and its chances of success – the same tried and tested rules for how you approach an exhibition largely apply.

seem to be attracting the most interest and footfall. If you’re visiting to test the water in these Covid times with a possible intention to exhibit in the future, all of the above can help sway your decision, as well as providing ideas to emulate.

And, it’s an obvious one, but it’s something in our experience a surprising amount of people forget to do. Namely stock up on business cards and promotional literature

…for those operating on smaller budgets or smaller stands, a clever idea and a bit of retail theatre can help level the playing field with the big boys” – and request them from others. They’re the easiest way to follow up on leads and conversations you’ve had afterwards – and the whole point of going to an exhibition is to converse and interact with people.

Who knows; they could be your clients and business partners of the future.

If, however, you are already exhibiting – or planning to – then you want to make yourself as irresistible as possible. Hopefully the marketing team will have done its job in advance and the show will be sufficiently well attended to make visiting or exhibiting worth it, and, while just by being on the show floor

ANTICIPATE AND PARTICIPATE Trade shows and exhibitions are a place to get inspired as well as informed. If you’re not actually exhibiting, treat it as a scouting trip and look at how other manufacturers and retailers are presenting themselves, examine what attracts your eye and why, and which locations (and products)

Got your own ideas about how the photo industry can counter the challenges arising from the pandemic, 20 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

In Person & Online Marketing you should attract passing trade, you need to think how to draw that passing trade in.

A huge stand, brightly lit display, plenty of new products and some money saving ‘show deals’ will always put you at an advantage, but for those operating on smaller budgets or smaller stands, a clever idea and a bit of retail theatre can help level the playing field with the big boys. A photo shoot happening on the stand is an obvious and easy one to set up, if there’s room. Keep an eye on and befriend those on neighbouring stands too – who knows when you might be able to direct custom each other’s way?

We’ve all heard tales of that customer who, often at the 11th hour, provides the one big sale that makes the exhibitor’s expense of attending all worthwhile.

Finally, if you don’t go to the show in the first place, you won’t know what you’re missing out on. We’ve all got busy schedules and may naturally be cautious about mingling with larger crowds than we’ve been used to for the past 18 months, but you’ve got to sometimes step out of that comfort zone and literally be in the room to close that deal (or see the potential for a future hook-up) in the first place.

Trade shows remain a significant part of any industry, providing some of the glue that binds us all together. Without that, our industry would certainly be a poorer one, so it’s beholden on us all to help make them – and ourselves – a success.

Get switched on to more than one sales channel As our experts have said many times in these pages, having a multi channel or multi platform approach– marketing and selling online, alongside bricks and mortar, and vice versa – is the key to a sustainable, successful business in the present climate. Here Javan Bramhall, founder and CEO at Digital Glue, an integrated marketing agency specialising in the photography and technology markets, looks at one aspect: going on the digital attack to drive online sales success…

In the first three months of the pandemic, online sales saw the equivalent of 10 years’ worth of growth, writes Javan. Those businesses that had a mature online offering and strategy were ready and waiting to take advantage, and many of them did. They had got digital right, and reaped the rewards. For others the story is different, and even if you were one of those who benefitted, new challenges appear regularly; with Google and Facebook making significant changes to the way their systems work, retailers and brands are now faced with new issues to optimise and improve.

THE PROBLEMS WITH A SINGLE CHANNEL APPROACH Our SEO and PPC (Pay Per Click) clients have seen a whole range of different impacts of these macro-economic and technical changes, depending on the maturity of their online marketing.

What do I mean by mature? In simple terms, not having all your eggs in one basket.

If you’ve got one sales strategy that’s working – say

Facebook advertising – when Facebook changes their targeting practices to comply with privacy laws, then that strategy is going to get disrupted to some extent.

To deal with these single channel bumps in the road, you need a plan which covers multiple channels so you can keep driving sales, even when one thing changes. Building this kind of multiple channel, mature digital approach means you’re ready to take advantage when demand increases.

What does that look like? In broad terms, getting a number of tactics all working at the same time, including:

SEO – crucial in lowering customer acquisition cost and driving sales when PPC tactics start to stagnate. You need organic traffic so not everything is a transactional cost.

Google Shopping – drives direct sales and allows you to achieve sales on products where you have a price advantage.

Google PPC – target specific product groups, where you have a margin advantage.

Social media PPC – turns community and interest based prospects into customers.

So, if you want to get on the front foot when things turn in your favour, or protect yourself when times are tough, make sure you’ve got more than one channel driving your sales success.

With change comes opportunity. It’s time to get on the front foot. https://digitalglue.agency

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 | September / October 2021 21

News

H&Y FILTERS PROMISES BLEMISHBANISHING, CINEMATIC LOOK

Hong Kong based H&Y Filters, whose Black Mist Filters are claimed to be able to suppress highlights, smooth skin blemishes and provide both photos and videos with a cinematic look, has announced the launch of a new series of these self-same filters in the form of ‘Revoring’ and magnetic clip-on filters. The H&Y Revoring Black Mist Filter (below) is a combination of the Revoring Variable Step Adapter and black mist filter. The H&Y Black Mist Magnetic Clip-on Filter, meanwhile, is an add-on magnetic circular black mist filter for Revoring VND & CPL users. These two new iterations of black mist filter come in two sizes – 46-62mm and 67-82mm plus three grades (1/8, 1/4 and 1/2).

Available now, H&Y’s solution is aimed at cinematographers striving to create a filmlike ambience while using high-resolution contemporary cameras that, without filter, can offer almost too much sharpness. By contrast, H&Y’s black mist filter is designed to give pictures and video a ‘dreamy’ appearance by applying a pastel effect to the whole picture. It tells us hard edges, especially those around light sources, will be softened, plus a subtle glow added around the light spots. For H&Y products, the UK trade should head to distributor PhotoTEQ (www.phototeq.com). https://hyfilters.net/

MAC GROUP ILLUMINATES NANLITE FOR THE TRADE The distributor has been put in charge of lighting brand NanLite for the UK and Ireland, which offers a versatile range of LED lights and accessories to help ‘image makers and storytellers achieve their vision’. Its LED solutions include monolights, panels, tubes and ringlights.

NanLite owner Nancy Zheng says: “With over 31 years of expertise in launching brands across every creative category, we couldn’t have picked a better partner to help with this incredibly exciting next stage of our company development.”

MAC Group Europe MD Gary Sutton adds: “I can’t begin to list all the things that impress me about the entire NanLite team. NanLite controls nearly 100% of their manufacturing process, unlike many other lighting companies which source components from various third parties. This allows them to respond quickly to customer needs with state-of-the-art technologies and the highest level of quality control.”

MAC Group Europe’s incoming NanLite Product Marketing Manager Terry Caws concludes: “As the photographic industry continues to evolve, many photographers and content creators are finding increasing and ever

more demanding applications for continuous lighting, and as such the requirements for quality, robust and versatile products grow. NanLite products cater to all these needs, and our aim is to become the first choice brand in this market.” en.nanlite.com www.macgroupeu.com

Young people grow photographic skills during pandemic Youth is wasted on the young, runs the old adage. And yet, a survey of 1,000 UK residents commissioned by online mobile phone retailer Mobile Phones Direct suggests that young people have been encouraged to get more into photography during the pandemic by social media sites, including Instagram – with 73% of 16-24 year olds believing their photographic skills have improved over this time – leading the company to wryly christen this period ‘the Gramdemic’. It further suggests that 46% of those in this ‘Gen Z’ age bracket have been inspired by their smartphone to invest more time and money into photography as a hobby and that 44% of them have set up an Instagram account dedicated to photography. As regards handsets themselves, the trade might be interested to learn that one in five people believe the quality of the camera is the most important aspect of a smartphone.

“The rise of social media

has made us all, especially Gen Z, look to perfect our photo and video skills,” says AnneMarie Beardmore, Trading Director at Mobile Phones Direct. “Combine this with the time we had spent isolated over the last year due to the pandemic, and it appears you have a potent cocktail for photography inspiration!” www.mobilephonesdirect.co.uk/advice-andinspiration/super-charge-your-social-snaps/

Value what you’re reading here? Then ‘Buy BPI a brew’ to help us continue publication. Donate via www.paypal.me/bpinews 22 September / October 2021 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

REMEMBER, REMEMBER...

OUR NEXT ISSUE IS BPI NEWS NOVEMBER

JUST 2 ISSUES & 2 CHANCES REMAIN...

To get your products & services in front of the uk photo trade...

Before the crucial gifting season!

DON’T MISS OUT: inews.co.uk bp n@ vi ga a vi W O N al ri to Book your Advert or Adver

Photographic British

Industry

news