ISSUE NO. 873
The magazine that understands the world of imaging, past, present and future
News Olympus Reduce Prices on Pen Range The multi-award-winning PEN Trinity has become an even more attractive option with new lower pricing, just in time for the summer. The E-PM1 is now available at £329.99 for the single lens kit and £449.99 for the twin lens kit, while the E-PL3 is now £399.99 as a single lens kit and £519.99 with two lenses. The flagship E-P3 can be purchased for £699.99 with the M.Zuiko 14-42 mm lens. Olympus are also still offering up to £200 cashback on the purchase of selected PEN lenses, adaptors and accessories until the 31 May 2012. http://olympuspen-lensesandaccessories.sales-promotions.com
Rare Leica Fetches £1.7 m at Auction A rare Leica O-series became the world’s most expensive camera recently when it sold for €2,160,000 in Pic: amateurphotographer.co.uk Vienna. The camera is one of only twenty or so ever produced in the early 1920s, which pre-date the first mass produced stills cameras for 35mm by a couple of years. A similar camera was bought at auction for around £1.2 million last year. The auction house has stated that the buyer wishes to remain anonymous. www.leica.com
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www.pixel.co.uk
22/05/2012
Retail Imaging Show REFOCUSED The Retail Imaging Show has been reimagined for today’s imaging industry.
Pixel is spleased to announce the 2012 Retail Imaging Show will be held on 12th October 2012 in Weybridge. The new look show will incorporate a number of changes which are the result of extensive consultation and research, aimed at futhering the show as a unique and unrivalled opportunity for the imaging industry to share knowledge and conduct business in person - a rare and valuable luxury in today’s digital age. The 2012 Retail Imaging show will take place in an exciting new venue for this year, with entertainment and interest to ensure that there’s plenty of subject matter for the product testing which will be an integral feature of this year’s show. The 2012 programme will also feature longer
opening hours and advanced scheduling options to allow all visitors to make the most of the facilities and features available to them on the day, including brand new seminars and tutorials. For all the exciting details, see our special feature on page 4!
Generation Mobile More than half of under 16s have only ever used a phone to take pictures. New research from a MyMemory.com has revealed that around half of those aged 16 and under have only ever used a camera phone to take photographs; with just a quarter claiming to own a digital camera at the moment. 1,611 parents of children aged 16 and under took part in the photobook website’s survey answering questions in relation to the experiences of their children as well as themselves. Those taking part were asked if their children had experience of taking digital photographs, to which a reassuring 92% of the parents taking part said “yes”. In contrast, the parents in the study were asked if their children under the age of 16 had experience of taking nondigital photographs, to which an unsurprising 88% said “no”. The majority, 52%, admitted that their children had ‘only used a camera phone’ to take digital
photographs. For the adults themselves, a third, claimed to use their camera phone as their main photograph-taking device, with over half explaining that they believed that their camera phone produced ‘just as good quality photographs as a digital camera.’ This reveals a large proportion of parents who use their digital camera more than their phone for taking photographs, but whose children have never used a digital camera, instead having their entire picture taking experience based on the use of cameras in smartphones. When the parents were asked if they still used analogue cameras and film themselves, just 8% of those taking part in the study said “yes”. The study also revealed that over three quarters, 76%, of those taking part admitted that they ‘missed’ taking photographs on film. www.MyMemory.com
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The Insider
Saying what you are thinking and asking the difficult questions. Each issue ‘The Insider’ reports back from the frontline of our industry.
I was recently asked to compile a list of cameras which worked well as both still and moving image cameras across a wide price range (approximately £200 to £2,000) as a possible purchase template for a local camera club. It was something which I was happy to do and something which I did not find difficult to do. Despite the every increasing amount of models currently available, in my mind there are standout cameras from a variety of the different manufacturers and I therefore quickly noted my favourites with a brief description about each and a quick explanation as to why I would recommend each model. Compiling the list had been easy and fun. What I found was neither of these things was finding out how much each of these cameras cost. A few sites did feature RRPs but the majority did not and I was left in the position that most customers are: confused. So I tried the search engine route and this time I got prices, boy did I get prices! Occasionally I would find the RRP but rarely without a sustained search. Instead the prices I did find varied so much that it quickly became impossible to ascertain which market the particular model was aimed at, what was a good deal and which was just too good to be true. Here’s an example: the Canon EOS 60D body only has a RRP of £1,049.99 (I hope this is correct, it took me a while to find and even then I had to find it on a retailers site), I then found that same body for sale at prices ranging from £554.00 to £839.00 via £767.90 and £789.00. Who knows where these cameras are coming from or how these prices are being offered? All I know is that as a consumer I would be utterly
confused by just how far these prices are away from the RRP, if they can even work out what that is or was. I am using Canon here merely as an example as every other manufacturer’s RRP prices seem to be similarly affected and that is without considering their own price drops and cashback schemes. The Nikon D3100, has an RRP of £449.99 but I found it for sale at £348.00. The difference is not as great as with the Canon but it is still substantial enough to put it into another consumer price bracket. I could give you examples from every other manufacturer but this column only has so much space and I am sure that many of you will be able to add your own examples. Suffice it to say that I handed my list into the camera club without prices and told them to get the best deals that they could on whatever they liked the look of. Not the advice I wanted to give but can you think of another industry that would treat its product and consumers in this way? If so let me know, if not then ask yourself why we do.
The Rise and Rise of Chris Bowen
Sony’s new Country Head, UK and Ireland, will be a familiar face to many in the trade, as he steps up to the role from a long career in all things imaging!
Following news of Sony’s reorganisation, Pixel spoke to the newly promoted Chris Bowen about his rapid progression through the imaging industry. “A significant part of my career has been developed within the photographic industry, from where I have many fond memories and which still holds a very special place in my heart. “I started with Olympus where I held several roles within the sales organisation, culminating in heading up their digital business for the UK market. I moved to Eastman Kodak in 2003 as UK Country Manager, then onto Director of Sales for Greater Europe, ending up based in Geneva running their Digital Imaging business for Europe, Africa and Middle East. I then joined Sony as their Head of Digital Imaging for the UK in January 2008, I was promoted to Sales Director for all of the Electronics categories in
2009 and latterly, as of 1st May, to Country Head for UK and Ireland. “I have a real passion for retail and specifically for optimising the consumer experience at all touch points. I believe it is imperative for our industry to ensure that we minimise confusion during the shopper journey, and ensure the consumer is given the best products for their needs not just the latest offer or deal and that we reward retailers that deliver against this aspiration. Doing this will put the value back into the market, good for retailers and manufacturers alike and result in happier shoppers.” We wish Chris the best of luck in his new role! www.sony.co.uk
FOCUS
News JP Announce Sekonic Meter Warranties From May onwards, all Sekonic meters supplied via JP Distribution and its authorised UK dealer network will carry a 5 year warranty. “Having listened to our loyal dealers, JP Distribution would like to show our continued support in helping our partners develop their Sekonic business. JP Distribution will now honour a 5 year warranty for any UK sourced meter purchased from May 1st 2012 onwards,” say JP Distribution. This warranty covers labour and spares for units, which develop any issue due to manufacturers fault or malfunction, but does not cover accidental damage or customer misuse. If servicing is required, the customer should simply return the unit in question with proof of purchase, and a covering letter to JP. Included should be the unit, proof of purchase and a description of the fault encountered. Registration for any authorised UK unit must be made via the Sekonic website, www.sekonic.com
Nikon Launches FX Lens Cashback Promotion Nikon has launched a new, FX lens promotion offering up to £180/€210 cashback on purchases of selected FX lenses. Customers are entitled to claim up to £180/€210 cashback when purchasing any of the selected lenses (listed below) in conjunction with a Nikon D4, D800 or D800E body. Cashback can be redeemed for up to two lenses per body. The promotion will run from 1st May – 30th September inclusive and all claims must be received by the 31st October 2012 in order to qualify. See full details of the promotion below: NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8 £180/€210 NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8 £80/€95 NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G £50/€60 NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G £75/€95 NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G £75/€95 NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G £60/€70 NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G £35/€40 www.nikon.co.uk/cashback.
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It’s Showtime!
Life Media Group Commercial Director Simon Skinner explains why this year’s Retail Imaging Show will not only be an essential marketplace for the industry, but also a unique networking opportunity in which to do business.
Simon Skinner
WHO: Everyone who’s anyone in the imaging trade WHAT: The Retail Imaging Show 2012 WHEN: Friday 12th October 2012 WHERE: Mercedes Benz World, Brooklands, Weybridge WHY: More reasons than there have ever been before. Simon, it sounds like there are plenty of exciting new developments for the Retail Imaging Show 2012. Could you talk us through the basics? So much is going to change for the 2012 show that it’s easier to explain what will remain the same! Basically, the Retail Imaging Show will remain the UK’s premier event for imaging dealers, and will continue to be trade-only because our primary objective is to faclitate business between Pixel readers - that’s the imaging retail channel - and the manufacturers, distributors and bodies that supply them. We have always felt that this simply cannot happen at an event where consumers are present, and feedback from the last seven years of shows reinforces our opinion that visitors really value the ability to speak openly about their business and discuss deals without the risk of being overheard by their customers. So, the objective of the show has not changed, but the way in which we will deliver this to our visitors has. What’s new for 2012 then? There are going to be plenty of new attractions this year. The Retail Imaging Show will host PMA’s 2012 UK conferences, which will be a must-attend for any retailers involved or interested in printing photos and a great addition to the show. Within this, there will be a broad spectrum of seminars, inluding a photokina review, and featuring a celebrity guest speaker. This year will take on a much more structured format than ever before. In previous years, we have seen meetings taking place on stands, in separate rooms and out on that lovely
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veranda at The Grove in 2011! This year, we are offering dedicated meeting facilities and will be scheduling meetings between visitors and exhibitors, with plenty of time and space for ad hoc discussions too. As always, the show will offer a tailored range of exhibitors, which will this year include hosts of innovative new moneymaking opportunities for the retailer. Pixel has reported extensively on the expanding horizons of the imaging trade, and the Retail Imaging Show is going to bring highlights of this to your fingertips, whilst maintaining the core element of essential brands from the traditional imaging sector. There will be a variety of products on show that aren’t yet widely sold in our channel, but offer great margin for imaging retailers. It will be a great way to
Once again the Retail Imaging Show will be the first opportunity to try out products released at photkina in the UK. kick off the run up to Christmas with new stock lines, ideas and promotions, not to mention the exclusive show deals that will be available. Of course, 2012 is a photokina year, so once again the Retail Imaging Show will be the first UK showing of many products which are released around the biannual German show, just two weeks after the event itself. For those who aren’t making the trip over to Cologne this time, it will be a great opportunity to have a hands-on look at some of the latest products and speak to manufacturers and suppliers about their releases and to place orders without the travel costs and with less time out of the shop. On the subject of testing out kit, the new venue will offer plently of visually exciting things which will be interesting subject matter for those testing out cameras as well as being entertainment for all. Seminars from manufacturers and industry bodies will be held in a seperate theatre area to the main exhibition, which will allow people who wish to attend these to give them their full focus. We have also extended the show’s opening time until 6pm, which should ensure everybody has time to see everything they want to.
Why have these decisions been made? We’re aware that lots of people visit the Retail Imaging Show for lots of different reasons. This is just a case of trying to cover and enhance what all of them value about the show, in order to make it the best show we possibly can, and for it to appeal to everyone in Pixel’s readership. We have held extensive conversations and meetings with retailers in order to obtain feedback about previous shows, and we know that what’s most important is the ability to sit down in private with suppliers and talk business - that’s something that really isn’t an option at other, more traditional consumerfacing photographic shows and something which we’ve always been keen to offer. I feel that this year, our ability to provide this is really reaching its maturity and visitors to the Retail Imaging Show this year will benefit from the most exclusive opportunities to talk with new and current suppliers. Similarly, we are able to offer exhibitors a chance to reach key buyers and traders in the imaging retail industry, which is why the show works so well and is able to offer so much. We also wanted to make the event more interesting and varied.The new venue offers plenty of interest in lots of different ways and also gives us the opportunity to run the event for longer, to give people plenty of opportunity to do everything they need and want to even if their visiting time is limited. Tell us more about the new venue, what is available there? The new venue is Mercedes Benz World, located on the famous Brooklands site in Weybridge, Surrey. It is home to all sorts of Mercedes Benz memorabilia, the Silver Arrows display team, tracks and skid pads where they hold driving expereinces and demonstrations so it’s definitely a must for motoring fans, but there’s plenty there for everyone else too. There are displays of legendary Mercedes Benz vehicles, a themed Cafe and the Gullwing Restaurant with impressive trackside views, and beautiful grounds which are often host to live events such as concerts etc. Why has it been chosen? Primarily, we’ve chosen the venue because it offers a stunning exhibition space and convenience for our exhibitors and visitors. It’s easy to access by public transport and has thousands of free parking spaces - enough parking for many more people than we could
THE BIG LAUNCH
and suppliers. No other show at the moment is providing this concise view of our changing industry, and that’s something we are sure the Retail Imaging Show will acheive well. Also, its a frequent complaint in this industry that large exhibitions can be a waste of time, as there’s so much to see and do that you can end up not doing any of it! Wandering around shaking hands and looking at stands from across a walkway is not what the Retail Imaging Show is about. That’s why we’re implementing this plan for our team to organise visitors’ days, so they know that they will accomplish what they want to before they even arrive. This year we have also teamed up with PMA, and this new section will provide an exceptional springboard to the event with invaluable industry insight, analysis, retail training, celebrity keynote speakers, all of which will be announced closer to the event itself.
This show will have a greater representation of the wider evolution of the channel, with a varied cross section of brands and opportunities Above: Mercedes Benz World, Weybride - The venue for this year’s Retail Imaging Show
possibly admit to the show, so we will avoid the problems we had last year when some guests had difficulties parking at the venue. There are also plenty of points of interest at Mercedes Benz World, which will allow manufacturers to hold interesting demonstrations and possibly some fun events for dealers.... we’re a while away from the event so expect plenty of exciting announcements between now and the big day. We’re really looking to host the event somewhere where we can see it evolving and think it has the potential to grow, and this venue is different to anywhere we have hosted the event in the past, so I am sure this move will appeal to visitors. What are the main differences that will set this apart from previous Retail Imaging Shows? I think all the changes are important, but one that coud be overlooked is the longer opening hours, so that every visitor has more time and can sit down to have the conversations they need to, rather than just going from stand to stand taking names.
Crucially, every dealer invited to the show - and as always, numbers will be limited and entrance restricted - will have the opportuntiy to have their day scheduled to a timetable for them, making sure they’re booked in to make the most of all the elements of the show they find of the most value to them and their business. We will be finding out who the manufacturers want to speak with, and then filling up the rest of the limited spaces with selected invited visitors. There will also be ad hoc spaces on the day so those not booked in will still have a chance to see who they need to see. How will it differ from other industry events? The Retail Imaging Show has always stood out in that it’s trade-only, which really sets it apart from other exhibitions. It’s smaller than many others in the sector, becaue we hand-pick a showcase of exhibitors who we believe have interesting products, deals and ideas to offer to our visitors, Pixel’s readers. I think this show will have a greater presence and representation of the wider evolution of the channel, with a varied cross section of brands
The Pixel Trade Awards are usually held on the same day as the Retail Imaging Show, have you any news on that event yet? We’ll be making an official announcement about the awards shortly. Watch this space! Lee Mansfield, Life Media Group Managing Director adds “2012 has seen us develop and launch the Life media Group as a reaction to the everchanging industry which we work in. Similarly, we feel that the Retail imaging Show should evolve into an event which responds to the challenges all retailers face. “I’m really excited about the direction the Retail Imaging Show is now taking, and believe it will offer opportunities and resources of benefits to retailers, the likes of which is not currently available to them at any other industry event.” Admission to the event with advance registration is £5, which includes your personalised timetable, lunch voucher, all day tea and coffee. Tickets on the day are £10, also including lunch and refreshments. To register to attend the show call the hotline: 0870 7779778 - www.pixel.co.uk
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INPRINT The magazine that provides retail solutions for the print professional, distributed free with Pixel magazine.
BOOTS TO CLOSE FILM LABS?
Following the news that Boots is set to close 160 of its photo processing labs, rumours surface that the nationwide chemist may stop film processing altogether.
60 years after bringing photo prodcessing to the high street, Boots has confirmed it will be closing mini-labs at 160 of its stores. Rumours of more closures and job losses from this move are rife around the industry, but Boots is not discussing further closures and says the 200 staff affected will be redeployed within stores wherever possible Amateur Photographer magazine reported that six Boots stores have already seen their labs close as part of the nationwide shake-up, and. a branch in Surrey has cancelled all in-store film processing. The consumer magazine said Boots will not rule out that it may be forced to close its entire fleet of 520 traditional film processing labs and outsource the service. “Digital cameras have been around for a long time,’ said AP’s insider source. “While there is demand, the service will be there.However, we can’t say how things will change in the future.” Boots UK said in a statement: ‘The way our customers use photo services has changed significantly over recent years, and as a result, we are updating the service across our stores. “We are not closing the photo departments
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in stores, but adapting some of their services to respond to changing customer demands. Customers will still be able to use the instant print services and will have the opportunity to order lab quality prints and creative products, which will continue to be available via in-store kiosks. We are working to offer redeployment opportunities for those employees potentially impacted by this change.’ Timings for these changes have not yet been announced. What You’re Saying on the Pixel Forum Mark Amies: How long before they are all gone? No doubt the media will take this as a precedent on the status of the industry, just as they did with the Kodak story. On a postive note, it’s great news for any photo lab in a high street where Boots had one! With a bit of imagination you could even do a poster that says “ Here come the Boys - we still print on site!” Camshop: Is it good for us? Just like Jessops, its the presence of photography on the high street that matters?. Does this mean internet printing is stealing more market Share? Have the likes of Photobox achieved 33% or more?
Dartmoor: What are people charging for d&p? the lab has put them up 15% i dont want to price us out of the market . Cecil: £8.99 for 24 and £10.99 for 36. If you dont get the quantity you must charge a sensible price. In the past few years I can only remember one person asking the price. 10 years ago almost everyone asked. 30 years ago we had 3 firms offering film processing here, inc. Boots, and we were always the most expensive but one by one the others gave up and we are the only ones left. Photoimaging: It’s worked well for us over the years. When we started there were 5 D&P places and we too were the most expensive, now we are the only ones left. www.pixel.co.uk
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THE BUSINESS
A Connected Future
Infotrends predict that connectivity will dictate the future of digital cameras in their latest market report. Infotrends profess that the connected experience is the future of imaging in their InfoTrends’ Consumer Digital Camera Forecast: 2011 – 2017, which examines market trends, market drivers and barriers for cameras. “The consumer electronics trade is promoting ‘connected’ experiences – connecting devices like TVs, set top boxes, game consoles, mobile phones, PCs, and tablets with personal and commercial content as well as services. If digital cameras do not integrate with this ecosystem, they run the risk of being left out of the equation,” says Ed Lee, Group Director of InfoTrends’ Worldwide Consumer and Professional Imaging Service. “As connecting devices becomes the norm, consumers will expect connectivity in future electronic devices. Digital camera vendors must satisfy this expectation or risk losing a customer. “Wi-Fi connectivity is beginning to show up as a standard feature and optional accessory in a handful of point & shoot cameras and digital interchangeable lens cameras. Manufacturers need to increase the speed of these introductions and make 2012 the Year of the Connected Camera. “All vendors should have at least one Wi-Fi enabled point & shoot or DILC model in their
line-up, and move towards offering Wi-Fi as a standard feature. Vendors must also ensure that the workflow for sharing images and videos is well thought out and that user interfaces are simple and intuitive.” The digital camera market is being threatened by outside factors, most notably smartphones. Due to their increased adoption and usage, more consumers are turning to their smartphones for photo capture too. As a result, some consumers may decide not to replace their digital camera, while others might forgo buying one altogether. Digital cameras, however, still offer a higher quality photo-taking experience. Digital camera manufacturers must keep the benefits of their products at the forefront of consumers’ minds so that still cameras will continue to be preferred over smartphones for everyday and planned picture-taking events. www.infotrends.com
Supply and Demand Latest GfK results show positive trends for digital camera sales as we head into the summer of 2012.
The latest market results for March reveal some good news for the digital cameras market, with stable sales in value, despite a 10% decline in volume. The only category in decline in value during March 2012 compared to last year was standard compact cameras (with under 10 times optical zoom). Helped by a good result, the changeable lens camera market grew by 11% in value, compared to last March, and represented more than 40% of the total digital cameras market value in Q1 2012. March was a strong month for compact system cameras, which grew by 64% in value
and 40% in units compared to last year. As for DSLRs, despite some shortages in supply and a 5% decline in units, this segment grew by 11% in value. This shows a trend of increasing demand for changeable lens cameras. Another good piece of news for retailers and manufacturers would be the trend for more premium products being purchased, as the average price for compact system cameras in March increased by 17% and, for DSLRs, by 20% compared to last year. This was also driven by some new top end products being launched in March, both in the CSC and the DSLR segment, which proved to be popular among the consumers. In the fixed lens segment, bridge camera and superzoom (cameras with 10 times or more optical zoom) continued to perform well in March. Bridge grew by 29.5% in units and 32.7% in value compared to last year, while superzoom grew by 32.2% in units and 13.2% in value as the average price dropped from £185 to £158 compared to same time last year. Aline Marchal, Account Manager, Photo, aline.marchal@gfk.com, +44 870 603 8181, www.gfkrt.com/uk, www.twitter.co.uk/gfkrtuk
News Specialist Dealer Sells £100,000 lens One of the few 220º Nikkor fisheye lenses ever made ihas sold through Grays of Westminster. Nikon stunned the photographic world at Photokina in 1970 by introducing the 220º fisheye Nikkor with a speed of f/2.8. It has a massive glass dome which dwarfs the camera attached nd weighs in at an impressive 5200g. The 6mm is for scientific and industrial applications and special effects when shooting portraits, architecture and interiors, etc. The mint condition vintage lens sold for £100,000. www.graysofwestminster.co.uk
Dixons Profits: Better Than Expected The Dixons group has experienced a strong start to the year and it’s expected that profits will exceed earlier predictions and be announced at the top of the range. Key performers were the PC World and Currys businesses, and sales in The UK, Ireland and Scandinavian region rperformed well. Whilst down year on year, sales soared by almost 10% in the first quarter of 2012. Falling sales in areas of Europe experienceing severe financial distress contributed to the overall drop in figures. www.dixonsretail.com
Serif Launches Photography Competition Following the success of last year’s competition, Serif has announced it will run another digital photography contest. The 2012 PhotoPlus Competition launches on 1st June and photography enthusiasts across the world have until 31st July to submit their picture. Individuals entering the competition will be in with a chance of winning over £1,800 worth of photography kit. The competition will also mark the start of National Photography Month, which is sponsored by Serif. www.serif.com
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THE NEW WORLD OF IMAGING
£75 Billion From 4G
The Rumour
Research finds that 4G internet will add billions of pounds to the UK’s Gross Domestic Product, protect jobs and increase business opportunities
The Rumour is a round up of gossip and hints currently circulating the internet. The views here are not necessarily those of Pixel Magazine and have not been communicated through official channels, they are simply things we have heard from those who may know!
Independent research from Capital Economics has found that Britain will see significant economic and social benefits from the introduction of 4G LTE mobile broadband when it is implemented. The research found that the introduction of fourth generation (known as 4G) mobile networks has the potential to: · Add 0.5 per cent – equivalent to £75bn today to UK Gross Domestic Product by the end of the decade · Unlock £5.5 billion of direct private investment into the UK economy by 2015, in addition to revenue from government spectrum auctions · Create or safeguard 125,000 UK jobs and · Provide access to mobile superfast broadband to at least 10 million people who won’t be able to get fixed line superfast broadband within the same time frame, opening up innumerable opportunities for reaching this audience online. The report’s author, Mark Pragnell of Capital Economics said: “The introduction of 4G mobile broadband will create substantial long-term benefits for the economy and consumers, ultimately boosting UK GDP by as much as half a
Rumour has it that... Canon may soon be ready to reveal their much anticipated compact system camera. In fact, it’s expected that two cameras will be released, one with an APS-C sensor and that the two will be at 14 & 24 megapixels. Other expected specs are EF compatibility (but no EF mount), a range of lenses available at the time of body launch and EVF on one camera. Commenters online seemed disappointed that these early rumours do not indicate that Canon’s offering into this sector will have a full frame sensor, but nothing has been officially announced. Via Canonrumours
percentage point. The near-term £5.5bn private industry investment we project is substantial – and opportune for the wider economy given the recent investment slump.” Olaf Swantee, CEO of Everything Everywhere, said: “This research highlights the significant economic and social benefits that 4G will bring to the UK - already enjoyed in over 30 countries around the world. The UK has the highest levels of smartphone penetration and mobile commerce in Europe, and Britons deserve to have the best infrastructure in place to support this growth.” Currently, 4G mobile networks can offer significantly faster and more reliable mobile internet connections. This research shows that rolling out 4G will kick start a new cycle of investment and innovation in internet services and mobile devices for consumers, and productivity benefits for businesses. It also shows how giving Britain a world class digital infrastructure will make it more globally competitive and attract new business start-ups www.4GBritain.org
The White Pixel
Rumour has it that... new lenses for APS-C and Micro Four Thirds format cameras may become available through SLR Magic. SLR Magic plans to release a new 25mm T0.95 lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras and a new 35mm T0.95 lens for APS-C sized cameras, which will be on the same quality level as the full frame SLR Magic HyperPrime 50mm T0.95 lens, which apparently rivals its £8,000 Leica equivalent! Via Photorumours
Smartphone Technology promises new potential for image sensors. One of Sony’s new smartphones is rumoured to feature a 13 MP version of the brands’s new stacked CMOS sensor technology, with additional white pixel and
Rumour has it that... Nikon’s D600 will be announced soon and will feature a 24 mp sensor and GPS. It’s thought the new camera, with in-camera RAW editing, time-lapse functionality and HDR, will be released in the summer, before photokina, and marketed as an entry level full frame camera, with an acheivable price to reach16:44:24 Fuji Quarter Page Advert.pdf 18/11/11 this step-up audience. Via Nikonrumours.
HDR video. With Sony CMOS sensors already implemented in high-quality smartphones such as the iPhone 4S. Sony’s unique RGBW coding function adds a dedicated white pixel which is designed to help to capture high-quality, low-noise photos in lowlight situations. Also included, HDR movie allows brilliant colour to be captured even in bright settings. While the addition of W (White) pixels improves sensitivity, it could slightly degrade image quality. Sony have circumnavigated this problem with imrpoved signal processing. Interestingly, the new tacked CMOS sensors new models are also able to output signals in RGB, so there is no need to change the signal processing in existing devices. www.sony.com
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Frontier Series
DryMinilab Series
Epson Wide Format Printers
ASK Instant Printers
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Call Fujifilm Photo Imaging on 012354 217724 or email photoimaging@fuji.co.uk
Quick Print Station
Xerox Phaser
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Your Essential Guide to the Latest Launches
THE LAUNCHPAD LAUNCH PAD
Name: Olympus Tough TG-1 RRP: £359.99 Release Date: June The new flagship Tough camera will set new standards for compact underwater photography. Its f2.0 aperture lens captures quality images even in the permanent twilight that is found 12 metres underwater, which is where this camera has been designed to excel. A housing, available soon, will enable the TG-1 to be taken to a depth of 45m, with a powerful flash attachment to boost illumination at depth. The TG-1 is waterproof to a depth of 12 metres, shockproof to a height of two metres, freezeproof to -10ºC and crushproof to 100kg.Other benefits include GPS, a built in manometer for checking depth underwater and an LED illuminator for lighting up underwater scenes or macro subjects. Tap Control mode allows the operator to use the camera by tilting or tapping the body. Interchangeable Lens Abilities: For serious underwater photographers, the Olympus TG-1 can be used with new waterproof lenses via optional adapters and converters. The Olympus TOUGH TG-1 - £359.99; Olympus Fisheye Lens - £129.99; Olympus Tele Converter Lens - £129.99; Name: Lensbaby Pro Effects Kit RRP: Release Date: Immediate
Name: Lomography Summer Editions RRP:As below Release Date: Various
It includes: Composer Pro with Sweet 35 Optic- The Composer Pro enhances the Composer by upgrading the swivel ball and focus mechanism for smooth focus and tilt control. The Sweet 35 Optic is a 35mm f/2.5 selective focus optic with a 12-blade adjustable aperture. Edge 80 Optic- When tilted, this 80mm f/2.8 flat field of focus optic, delivers a slice of tack sharp focus through the image bordered by blur; Macro Converters: This set contains one 8mm and one 16mm converter, which can be used together to make a 24mm converter; Lensbaby Lens Cleaning Cloth - The 14”x14” cloth can also protect any Lensbaby lens by swaddling and stowing it away in a camera bag; Lensbaby System Bag: includes a removable shoulder strap, compartments including an outside zipper, an inside mesh sleeve, and velcro straps that allow System Bag to be fastened together. www.lensbaby.com
Lomography has launched a raft of new cameras for summer. Lomography fans can go square, half format or fisheye with these Fisheye 2 Faded Denim - £79.00, Diana Neptune Green - £89.00 and Diana Mini Coral Fusion - £99.00. The new La Sardina Beach Edition is wrapped in ten various fabrics, cut in a different way every time so no camera looks the same. It comes in St. Tropez - £59.00, and Capri - £99.00. The new Fisheye Candy Edition in glossy pink and yellow shoots 170 degrees pictures - £45.00 The new Sprocket Rocket SuperPop! Edition comes in blue, red, pink and mint with scrolling knobs to move the film back and forth -£79.00. A true wide-angle wonder, the La Sardina Guvnor is tinted in Union Jack colours - £99.00. www.lomography.com
Name: Vtec Cam-1209 Telephoto lens RRP: Varies Release Date: Immediate
Name: Tiltpod iPhone 4 and 4s RRP: £12.99 Release Date: Immediate
The Vtec Telephoto lens is a small edition that screws onto the back of an iPhone cover, to give 12x zoom on all photos. Vtec’s Telephoto lens offers impressive zoom quality without distorting the image, and is an ideal gift for photography enthusiasts or iPhone fans. The Telephoto Lens has a manual focus ring and also comes with its own tripod, which attaches to the lens to steady the phone when capturing shots. www.vtec.co.uk
The World’s Smallest Always-Ready Camera Stand is now available for the iPhone 4 And 4s! Without a tripod handy, self timer shots are difficult to take, poorly framed and someone inevitably doesn’t quite make it in the picture. The tiltpod eliminates these issues. The tiltpod’s compact design features a quick-connect magnetic ball pivot. Simply attach your iPhone 4/4s to the ball pivot and magnetically connect it to the base for an instant hold. The Tiltpod is amazingly small and versatile, perfect for taking low-light shots, self timer group photo and stable video. Its magnetic base can be quickly attached and removed from the iPhone 4/4s www.gomite.com
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INSIDE TRACK
Kodak Bonuses Approved by Court Company will be allowed to pay bonuses to key staff Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reports U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Allan Gropper approved spending up to $13.5 million in retention bonuses for key managers and executives of Eastman Kodak Co. According to the article, “The bonus plan specifically excludes top-level executives who set policy and direction and instead focuses more on the level of general managers, directors and vice presidents…Gropper noted during Monday’s hearing in New York City that he has expressed concern in the past about ‘stay-put’ bonuses in other bankruptcy cases, particularly bonus plans that seem top-heavy. But in Kodak’s case, ‘This plan is anything but,’ he said. ‘It excludes insiders altogether’.” Kodak has also announced that Pradeep Jotwani — president of the consumer business, chief marketing officer, and senior vice president — will resign from the company, effective May 31. “We are grateful to Pradeep for his contributions in leading our Consumer Business and our brand management through a period of transformation, and we wish him well in his new endeavors,” the company says. Laura Quatela was elected president and chief operating officer on January 1, and will assume direct responsibility for leadership of the Consumer Business. www.kodak.com
June is National Photography Month Here is a preview of how some organisations are getting involved. For more ideas, visit www.nationalphotographymonth.co.uk National Schools Competition My School in Focus photographic competition is supported by a resource pack for Geography Teachers. The competition is an opportunity for schools to get involved by using photography to engage with key concepts in geography, London Festival of Photography London’s venues will host a city-wide celebration including 18 exhibitions and 40 events including workshops, talks and screenings. ASDA - Asda are planning a nationwide in-store promotion - Buy 50 1 hour prints and get a free photo gift to the value of £10 and Asda Photo Gifts are launching a full wrap photo for iPhone 4 and 3, and Galaxy S2 cases together with a range of photo mugs, cushions, banners and bags. Fuji Digital Imaging Services - The Golden Moments photo competition offers local prizes and the opportunity to enter the national competition with prizes of Fujifilm Finepix X-10 cameras. Royal Photographic Society - The Royal Photographic Society to provide retailers with speakers on a range of topics. Jessops - Nationwide in-store promotions and sponsorship of My School in Focus. London Camera Exchange- Nationwide in store demonstration days during June. Raymond Reid - During National Photography Month Raymond Reid Photo are offering every second same size print for a penny and every second 35 mm film developed and printed for a penny. They are also offering a 10% discount on the purchase of all other goods and services over £10. Park Cameras - Park Cameras have a Schools Competition open to schools in East and West Sussex they also have the following in-store offers: Week 1: 7x5” prints at the same price as 6x4” prints; Week 2: 20% off any canvas; Week 3: 15% off poster prints; Week 4: Buy 50 prints and receive 10 extra free. Early Bird Café, Camden Town - Aruna Khanzada holds a session every Tuesday at the Early Bird Cafe for 2 hours. It is a drop in session and is free to come and get ideas and tips for making one’s own personal photo legacy. www.nationalphotographymonth.co.uk, www.pmai.org
The Samsung Smartphone that Watches You New phone’s camera will be used to enhance user interaction
Samsung Electronics says its third-generation Galaxy S III “recognises how you are using your phone by having the 2-megapixel front camera identify your eyes” to register when you’re looking at the phone, and, for example, keep the screen lit while you’re reading. The phone also features new social imaging features such as the “Buddy” function which shares photos simultaneously “with all your friends pictured in an image directly from the camera or the photo gallery.” The main 8-megapixel camera features a zero-lag shutter speed “that lets you capture moving objects easily without delay – the image you see is the picture you take,” the company says. Also, the burst function captures twenty continuous shots, and the “Best photo” feature selects the best of eight photographs, to “ensure a more enhanced and memorable camera experience.” Both front and rear cameras capture HD video. The phone runs the Android OS on a quad-core processor, and has a 4.8-inch display. www.samsung.com
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