Pixel Magazine - February 2015

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ISSUE NO. 944P

February 2015

www.pixel.co.uk

INSIDE

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LP_Pixel_Ears_46x53mm.indd 2 30/09/2014 30/09/2014 11:47 INTERVIEW WITH INDUSTRY VETERAN ALEX FALK, SWPP TRADE SHOW AND CES EVENT ROUNDUPS, TOP JANUARY PRODUCT LAUNCHES, CANON CONNECT SELLING GUIDE AND MORE...

This Issue Includes...

• MAC GROUP launch in UK. Full interview and details on page 20.

• LUMIX GF7 Our retailer guide offers top selling points for this new camera. Page 14.

‘Record Breaking’ CES 2015 We report some of the highlights and feedback from CES 2015 - Continued on Page 9

• MR CAD A quick chat with industry veteran Alex Falk. Page 16.

Olympus Stylus 1 Firmware Update

The new update introduces a number of new features: • Interval Shooting and Time Lapse Movie for capturing footage over 24 hours.

• Compatibility with OI.Share App v2.5 for remote shutter release from a smartphone via WiFi. • Step Zoom for instantly setting 35mm focal lengths in steps from 28mm to 300mm.

• 35mm equivalent shown in focal length display. www.olympus.co.uk PHOTO -

IMAGING -

Drone Insights...

It seems everyone’s droning on about drones. These little flying contraptions are storming the news pages, with stories about airspace, regulations and privacy raising concerns about how people are using them. CES in early January dedicated a whole floor to them for the first time – showcasing the

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variety of models available, from creditcard sized contraptions, to large drones designed for military use. The potential for the photographic market could be huge, but it’s early days. In this issue we ask analysts at GfK to give their expectations for the

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market, ahead of the launch of their drone retail sales tracking panel.

Will drones follow the same pattern as action cams?

Or is it a bubble waiting to burst?

Find out more on page 12.

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NEWS

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NEWS

WELCOME To Pixel Magazine It seems like the industry woke up in January. There’s a renewed sense of purpose in the air (or is it the left over curry I had for lunch?) and product launches are flying into my inbox at an exciting pre-photokina rate. You can find all of the top launches from January in the news pages of this issue.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Neil Old, Chief Operating Manager of Jessops. I asked him to sum up the current photographic industry in one word. He chose ‘revolutionary’. It’s a strong word, but I think he’s right. There is something of a revolution underway – photography has opened up to a much wider audience, cameras are changing, retail is changing, and we’re skimming the edges of brand new industries that could breathe life into what I’ve heard many refer to as a ‘dying’ industry.

I also had the pleasure this month of speaking to Alex Falk, who’s been in the industry for over half a century, and has a fair few tales to

tell. You can read our interview on page 16.

Counter staff might be interested in our retailer guides this month, which pick out some of the top selling points and features of the new Panasonic GF7 and the Canon Connect Station, due out in the summer.

Trade shows and conventions always help to lift the atmosphere in the industry; this month we cover CES and SWPP, as well as a preview of the Photography Show coming up in March. Enjoy your read!

Share gains in mobile contributed to an 8% revenue boost for Dixons Carphone Dixons Carphone CEO Seb James revealed the company had seen a major uptake of wearable devices in recent months, selling 13 times the number of fitness bands compared to the previous year.

He said: “I am very pleased with the end result. In all of our largest trading markets we have excellent like-for-like performance against fairly tough comparables.

At the same time, we have also experienced stable gross margin.

“There is no doubt that the huge

scale and success of our Black Friday promotion impacted the three weeks that followed, but it was good to see customers respond positively to the deals that we had on Boxing Day where we saw growth from our record-breaking numbers last year in both the UK and Nordics.

“Online has risen as a proportion, with excellent growth in both home delivery and click-and-collect.

Prepay phone sales have continued to fall, replaced by postpay contracts to a large extent.”

Stocking the Sony QX1?

Impressive macro shots from Sony’s smartphone lens

Zoe, Editor zoe@pixel.co.uk

New Full-Frame Samyang Lenses for Stills and Movie The 135mm F2.0 ED UMC Telephoto Lens and 135mm T2.2 VDSLR ED UMC Telephoto Cine Lens have been announced Samyang has announced the launch of two new 135mm lenses, one for stills and one for shooting movie.

The manual focus telephoto 135mm F2.0 ED UMC ‘expresses vibrant colour and soft bokeh’, according to Samyang. This makes it ideal for portrait, scenery, wildlife and photo-journalism. It has an aperture of F2.0 and the lens features 11 elements in 7 groups, including extra low dispersion (ED) to offer high resolution across the image.

Close focus is 0.8m and the floating element design

Dixons Carphone Enjoyed 8% Christmas Boost

captures as much light as possible, minimising spherical aberration and distortion. The body is compact and solid, made of high-strength aluminium alloy and the detachable lens hood protects from flare and ghosting.

RRP: For Nikon AE fitting, £419.99 / for Canon, Sony A, Pentax and Sony E fittings, £389.99 Available: Early Feb 2015

On the Pixel website we’ve posted a number of macro shots taken with a smartphone, using the Sony QX1 Lens-Style Camera.

If you stock the Sony QX1, you can give an example of what they’re capable of by showing them these shots of frost in the woods by Hampstead Heath, and The 135mm T2.2 VDSLR ED UMC Telephoto Cine Lens is designed for ‘high quality movie shooting’, according to Samyang. It has a decoupled T2.2 aperture, allowing for versatile control when shooting under ‘tricky lighting conditions’.

The lens features 11 elements in 7 groups, including extra

extreme close-ups of weird and wonderful insects at Haslemere Museum – all pics by Mikael Buck.

You can use these photos as examples of what the attachable smartphone lens is capable of.

See more at pixelmagazine.co.uk low dispersion (ED) to offer high resolution across the image.

Samyang’s Ultra Multi Coating (UMC) is used to optimise light transmission whilst minimising flare and ghosting. Close focus is 0.8m and the floating element design captures as much light as possible, minimising spherical aberration and distortion. The body is compact and solid, made of high-strength aluminium alloy and the detachable lens hood protects from flare and ghosting.

RRP: For Nikon, Canon, Micro 4/3 and Sony E fittings, £429.99 Available: Early Feb 2015

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NEWS

Fujifilm X-A2 Unveiled WIth 175º Tiliting LCD Fujifilm has launched a new version of the X-A2, its entry-level interchangeable-lens camera New features on the X-A2 include a 175º tilting LCD for ‘easy selfportraits’, eye detection AF, auto macro AF and multi target ‘MULTI AF’. It is also equipped with a new longer life battery and wireless image transfer for connecting with smartphones, tablets and – as with the X-A1, the Instax Share SP-1 printer.

Fujifilm has also developed

UK Online Sales Topped £100 Billion in 2014

Photo by Peter Hellberg - Creative Commons

New figures show that online sales grew by 14% in 2014 compared to the previous year, totalling £104 billion.

The IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index said this was the first time online spending has ever broken the £100 billion barrier.

Now, the analyst has forecasted a further growth of 12% in 2015, estimating a total spend of £116 billion by December.

Christmas spending certainly gave the totals a boost last year, with shoppers spending up to £21.6 billion on gifts and bargains in the eight weeks to 27 December.

However, sales growth yearon-year for this period was just 5%, the lowest ever recorded on the Index.

Adgild Hop, Principal Head of retail consulting at Capgemini, said: “Black Friday was unquestionably a success for the value-seeking consumer, but for retailers themselves, its success is not quite as clear. As the Index reveals, spending was brought forward a month earlier, at much lower margins for retailers, as a result of the discounts available to customers in November.”

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two new kit lenses, the XC1650mm F3.5-5.6 OIS II and XC50230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS II which, according to the company, feature an updated design and improved performance. The 16-50mm is the shortest lens in its class, with a minimum working distance of 15cm for macro photography.

The 50-320mm has optical image

stabilisation so photographers can zoom in with minimal shake.

The Classic Chrome mode we saw introduced for the X series in August 2014 also features on the A2.

Top Selling Points • 16.3MP sensor and EXR Processor II for high quality images in a compact camera • Smooth bokeh effects possible • ISO200 to ISO6400 normal sensitivity range, and ISO12800 and ISO25600 for extended settings for minimising camera shake • Easy to use command dials to adjust settings • New 175º tilt screen

• Super Intelligent Flash controls light output according to particular scenes • Full HD movie shooting • Wireless sharing Accessories • BLC-XM1 Leather Case (black or brown) • HG-XM1 Hand Grip • MCEX-11 and MCEX-16 Extension Tubes RRP • X-A2 kit with XC16-50 mk II silver lens: £449.99 • Lens sold separately: £TBC Availability March 2015

New All-Weather Compact From Fujifilm Weather-proof, shock-proof, freeze-proof and dust-proof FinePix XP80 unveiled

Fujifilm has announced the new all-weather FinePix XP80.

The new tough camera is ‘ideal for snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking and other leisure activities’, according to the company.

The XP80 comes with a 16.4MP sensor with 4x optical zoom that can be doubled with Fujifilm’s Intelligent Digital Zoom technology.

It shoots Full HD video and can be transformed with an optional

Action Camera Lens, turning the fixed lens into an 18mm.

This mode enables hands-free shooting so the camera can be mounted onto the user or their sporting equipment.

The camera features four levels

of protection for harsh conditions, including waterproofing up to 50ft. It can also withstand a drop of up to 5.8ft, withstands temperatures as low as -10º and is dustproof.

Availability: March 2015 RRP: £199.99

New Line-Up of Pentax Sports Optics Ricoh Imaging Unveils 34 high quality optical devices

S-Series Consists of both roof and porro prism models with objective lenses greater than 40mm.

The new range of Pentax binoculars has been divided into four clearly defined categories to make choosing easier for customers: Z-Series As the flagship series of the range, the Z-Series offers ‘premium quality and clarity at an affordable price’, according to Pentax. They feature a newly developed ‘Full MultiCoating’ (prevent flare and ghosting) and ‘Enhanced Light Transmission Coating’ (for bright images with accurate colour rendition) as well as

A-Series This series is considered the compact, portable and durable smaller brother of the S-series.

‘Hydrophobic Protective Coating’ to make water droplets ‘peel’ off the lens surfaces, ideal for outdoor use.

U-Series These compact, inverted porro-prism models feature a dual-axis, single body design with synchronised IPD adjustment and full multi-coating for better light transmission.

NEWS

Rotolight Welcomes New Team Member

Tiny SnapCam Previewed

Pinewood Studios-based brand appoints Sales Manager

Rotolight, which manufactures studio and location LED lighting systems, has appointed Barry Grubb as their new International Sales Manager for Europe and Australasia.

Barry joins with a wealth of varied experience both in the UK and overseas, and has an extensive background in manufacturing sales and distribution across brands associated with the photographic and broadcast industries.

When asked why he chose

the atmosphere at Rotolight.

“With the imminent launch of Rotolight Neo, a gamechanging product for ENG / Location lighting, now is a very exciting time for the company and I am delighted to be part of the team.”

Email: barry@ rotolight.com

to join Rotolight, Barry replied – “With the innovation and constant level of development in the Rotolight products, it was an easy choice.

“Being based at the world famous Pinewood Studios UK, adds further credence to the values that the team at Rotolight stand for: ‘Creative thinking in innovation and application’ is very much

Firmware Upgrade For Samsung NX1

A number of improvements have been made to the NX1

Samsung has promised major firmware improvements with v1.2 for the NX1 mirrorless camera.

In an interview with DP Review at CES, Samsung revealed that a number of changes

have been made to the camera’s firmware to benefit movie shooters.

Among the changes, two gamma curves have been added, as well as higher-end features such as the output of time code

over HDM1 for external recorder users.

Other improvements include a higher nitrate setting for 1080p shooting, luminance limit options (0-255, 16-235 and 16-255), and master black level controls.

For a full list of the 27 proposed updates, head over to DP Review.

Hasselblad Appoints New CEO

Action-cam manufacturer iON has branched into wearables with the new 1.5 sq inch SnapCam. The tiny camera can allegedly snap up to 5,000 photos on a single charge and when not in use, it can last on standby for seven days.

Controls are simple: it turns on with just a swipe to the body. A single tap snaps a photo, two activates video and three begins live streaming which works via built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. Alternatively, the camera can be controlled via smartphone.

The SnapCam has an 8MP sensor and records 750p HD, at 30fps.

New Board Member at Zeiss

Perry Oosting will take over from Ian Rawcliffe as CEO Established member of the Hasselblad Supervisory Board Perry Oosting has been appointed as the CEO of the Swedish luxury camera manufacturer.

Bringing over 25 years of experience with brands such as Gucci and Prada to his new role, Mr Oosting looks forward to welcoming future growth.

He said: “It is an honour for me to accept this new role at Hasselblad and become an integral part of this iconic brand. This company has an incredible history and with its core DNA has a sound foundation for further development. The recent and widely acclaimed launch of our ‘back to the future’ CFV-50c CMOS back is a great example of our ongoing commitment to the total Hasselblad brand experience that enables customers to benefit

from our advanced and exclusive digital engineering know-how.”

He added: “My former experiences will certainly be an advantage, but I see Hasselblad as a unique opportunity and therefore it will need a tailor-made strategic direction and implementation to support future growth.”

Dr Helmut Vorndran, Chairman of the Supervisory Board Hasselblad added: “We are delighted Perry has accepted this new role to further

develop and strengthen our brand and product proposition. Now with the combination of a solid foundation, and Perry’s priceless expertise, we feel confident we can achieve our ambitious goals. We also thank his predecessor Ian for setting the base within the agreed time schedule and for his valuable contribution to Hasselblad.”

A Hasselblad spokesperson commented: “Former CEO Ian Rawcliffe’s focus was to enhance the company‘s operations and build a solid base. With this in place together with Perry’s extensive experience, the company now has the best foundation to successfully implement its long term strategy - based on its unique positioning and strength in its core product proposition.”

As of 1 July 2015, the currently four-member Executive Board of Carl Zeiss AG, headed by President and CEO Dr. Michael Kaschke, will be expanded to include a new member responsible for the Vision Care and Consumer Optics business groups.

Dr. Matthias Metz will joint the board, marking ‘a further consistent implementation of the goal to position the company as a portfolio enterprise organised in line with market segments’, according to Zeiss.

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NEWS DNP’s New Flagship Printer

Polaroid Launches Instant ‘Zip’ Printer

The iconic instant camera brand unveiled the Polaroid Zip at CES

DNP’s new flagship printer, the DP-DS620 is now available for the UK market. With new key features of enhanced durability, cost effectiveness and innovation, it sets the path to become a bestseller. We will be publishing a piece in our next issue [March], which will outline key features of the new DNP lab, so watch this space...

Polaroid has unveiled a new pockedsized instant printing device, enabling users to print photos from any Bluetooth enabled smartphone or tablet.

Claiming to have been the ‘first social network by enabling consumers to instantly print and share images’, Polaroid now wants to take its original concept into the modern age.

The Polaroid Zip works via a dedicated Android and iOS app that allows users to instantly print 2” x 3” colour photographs.

“Instantly sharing life’s special moments is what Polaroid’s legacy and heritage are all about, ” said Scott W. Hardy, President and CEO of Polaroid.

“Our smartphones are always with us and have become an important device consumer’s reach for to capture life’s most memorable moments.

“Some photos are uploaded to social networks and shared with

others digitally; however, there will always be a need to share and show actual ‘physical’ photos.

“The new Polaroid Zip mobile printer doesn’t just streamline and simplify the process it makes it as much fun as sharing an image online. That’s why we’re excited to bring the “updated” version of the Polaroid experience to a generation of consumers known for always being on-the-move.”

Key Selling Points • Light and compact, 186g, 2.91” x 4.72”, less than 1” thick.

• Simple use with just one on/off button.

• Free app.

• Connects via Bluetooth 4/0 or NFC. UK Pricing and availability TBC

Two New Waterproof Action Cams From Sony Sony has announced two new action cameras for ‘superior, steadier’ pictures

Sony has announced two new action cameras for ‘superior, steadier’ pictures.

The new models are the 4K Action Cam FDR-X1000VR and the Full HD Action Cam HDRAS200VR. The 4K Action Cam FDRX1000VR can be fixed to a helmet to capture sports and other outdoor endeavours in Full HD at 120p and HD at 240p for slow motion effects.

Sony said: “In an Action Cam first, the FDR-X1000VR can capture high - bitrate recordings at 4K 30p 100/60Mbps, using the XAVC S format which is developed for consumer use based on the XAVC 4K/HD format suited for professional use. Taking you closer still to true

broadcast quality, you can clearly capture complex motion as seen in water spray or large crowds with stunning resolution.”

Both new models feature a 170° field of view, with an ultra-wide angle ZEISS Tessar® lens.

Newly-enhanced SteadyShot ensures footage is clear and stable.

Sony said it is ‘three times more effective’ than its predecessors at combatting the effects of rapid vibration, recommending it for aerial

shots with Action Cam rigged on a drone.

Also new is Loop Recording on both the FDR-X1000VR and HDR-AS200VR, which continuously records video into its memory card buffer. Users can press the record button when something happens suddenly – like a freak wave – and the camera’s already captured the start of the scene.

Both cameras now feature new

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The Photography Show Stand H61

Tel: 01485 536 200 email: sales@swains.co.uk web: www.swains.co.uk

21-24th March 2015 THE NEC, BIRMINGHAM

Wind Noise Reduction.

New In-Cam Highlight Movie Maker assembles an automatically generated highlights package which can then be uploaded as an MP4 to social media.

The free Action Cam Movie Creator application enables users to overlay GPS data to map their route. Music can also be added to the edited video.

The new Action Cam FDRX1000VR and HDR-AS200VR video cameras from Sony are available to pre-order now at www.sony.co.uk.

The FDR-X1000VR will be available from April 2015 and the HDR-AS200VR from March 2015.

DS620

Profitable photofinishing with flexibility, quality and speed!

Reliability

Great choice of formats

High-quality finish

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The DS620 is to take over as the new flagship model in DNP’s printer line-up. With the new key features of enhanced durability, cost effectiveness and innovativeness, it sets the right tone to become a bestseller. Compact and well-designed body, it is attractive for kiosk integrators and photo retail alike. DNP offers an enhanced warranty included for you, featuring 2 years standard warranty and up to 100,000 prints on the thermal print head.

The new DS620 allows you to offer even more photo formats, including the popular square format 15x15cm. The rewind function allows you to offer multiple formats from the same media allowing you to benefit from cost savings and a reduction of media stock keeping units. Last not least, the standby mode reduces your power consumption to a minimum (<0.5W) when the printer is not in operation. The DS620, a reliable performer!

Available from first quarter 2015. *Available 2nd quarter 2015

www.dnpphoto.eu sales@dnpphoto.eu www.pixel.co.uk 7

NEWS Lumi Teams Up With Lomography

Lumi kits all use a photosensitive dye called Inkodye, which is activated by UV or light. Negatives can then be pressed to fabric (with the light parts of the image activating the dye and the dark parts remaining blocked), creating a print.

Kits available include: • Photo Printing Kit - enabling screen-printing without the ‘hassle and costly equipment’.

• Sunfold Printing Kit - for hasslefree tie-dyeing.

• Shadow Printing Kit - allowing an object to be used as a stencil for blocking the light, producing interesting designs in orange and magenta.

To find out more about Lumi, head to http://lumi.co

New Storage Accessories From Mindshift Gear

The US outdoor photography brand announced a range of accessories at CES. Mindshift Gear unveiled three new products in Las Vegas last week: the Filter Nest Mini, the Filter Hive Mini, and the House of Cards.

Both the Filter Nest Mini and Filter Hive Mini are designed to, as the name suggests, store filters, while the House of Cards is a wallet for memory cards.

To find out more about stocking the new products, contact Mindshift Gear on 707-284-9999.

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Asus Unveils Smartphone With 3x new phone should appeal to Optical Zoom The smartphone photography enthusiasts The Zenfone Zoom is Asus’ latest attempt to break into the smartphone market, having previously released the quirky Padfone range.

The new smartphone allegedly has a 3x optical zoom, using

a system involving two lenses that slide horizontally between the lens, which takes up less space and doesn’t require an elongating extension.

The sliding technology has been paired with optical image

stabilisation to keep the image blur-free with the zoom in use.

There is also an autofocus sensor with 13MP. The phone is still in the prototype stage but according to Digital Trends, it will be ‘95% finished’ at Mobile World Congress, in the first half of 2015.

ASUS is expected to launch the phone in both the US and the UK.

Smallest Compact Camera in Fujifilm X Series Unveiled Announcing the super compact XQ2 Fujifilm has unveiled its smallest ever premium X Series compact camera, the ZQ2.

The compact will appeal to amateurs and enthusiasts who want simplicity teamed with portability and power.

It comes with a F1.8 4x zoom lens and many of the same features seen on the

recently-launched X30, including the same 2/3-inch X-TransTM CMOS II sensor, EXR Processor II, AF and new “Classic Chrome” Film Simulation mode.

With just 100 x 48 width, 5 x 33 height and 3mm depth, it is an extremely pocketfriendly. It has also been designed for easy operation, with a manual focus

control ring to speed up operation.

The XQ2 also benefits from wireless image transfer, enabling instant prints when teamed with the Instax Share smartphone printer.

Fun modes and a choice of body colours will appeal to customers looking to express their creativity.

Optional Accessories • BLC-XQ1 Leather Half-Case • WP-XQ1 Waterproof Case Availability: March 2015 RRP: £329.99

Nikon Announces Yet More COOLPIX compact cameras have this week been added to the Compacts New popular COOLPIX range Despite industry figures indicating that compact cameras are on a downwards spiral, Nikon is still adding to its range with three new compact digital cameras: the COOLPIX S3700, S2900 and L31.

Each camera targets a different market segment, with the S3700 appealing to tech-savvy buyers looking for built-in WiFi and NFC2 for easy photo sharing. The S2900 is ‘slim and stylish’ with a 20MP sensor for enthusiasts looking for better quality pictures, while the L31 is designed for entry-level

photographers who will appreciate the easy-to-use interface.

Top Selling Points 1. COOLPIX S3700 • Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC support.

• Slender styling, portable and colourful options.

• 8x NIKKOR optical zoom lens, extendable to 16x Dynamic.

• Fine Zoom320 MP CCD image sensor: With a high megapixel count, images are sharp with clear details – perfect for photo or poster enlargements.

• Panorama assist: Panoramas

can be shot by tilting vertically or panning horizontally.

• HD movie recording: Record in HD (720/30p).

2. COOLPIX S2900 • 20MP CCD image sensor: Ideal for enlargements.

• 5x NIKKOR optical zoom lens: • HD movie recording: HD (720p) with a one-touch movie record button.

• 16 Scene Modes.

• Target Finding AF. 3. COOLPIX L31 • Easy to use: The button layout is designed to be simple, with Easy Mode making automatic shooting easier.

• 16 MP CCD image sensor.

• 5x optical zoom.

• HD movie recording: HD (720p).

• Easy-hold grip.

CES 2015

‘Record Breaking’ CES 2015

Here Pixel takes a look at the imaging technology showcased at the ‘biggest show in history’, CES 2015

Drones and other unmanned aerial vehciles take flight at the Unmanned Systems Marketplace

“Tech innovators showcased the latest products and prototypes across at the whole industry spectrum, from unmanned vehicles, personalised health care solutions, virtual reality, smart homes, 3D printing and much more”

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ccording to organisers, the Consumer Electronics Show 2015 was the biggest show in history, bringing together technologies and services that will ‘solve world problems and improve lives’. Here we look at the photographic side of things…

CES, run by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) was held between 6 and 9 January 2015 in Las Vegas. It wrapped up as the largest show in the organisation’s history, with more than 2.2 million net square feet of exhibit space featuring more than 3,600 exhibitors, including a record number of startups.

Tech innovators showcased the latest products and prototypes across at the whole industry spectrum, from unmanned vehicles, personalised health care solutions,

virtual reality, smart homes, 3D printing and much more. With so many cutting edge, controversial and often bizarre ideas being explored at the show, it’s no surprise it attracted a huge range of people – from gadget enthusiasts, to government officials and global influencers.

Between the more bizarre offerings – gadgets that monitor your fridge, devices that measure the UV rays on your skin, appcontrolled cocktails and robotic hoovers – CES revealed a host of exciting new imaging products for 2015.

Nikon, Canon, Samsung, Pentax, Panasonic and Sony were just some of the major photographic brands with new cameras and accessories to unveil at the show’s Digital Imaging Marketplace.

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CES 2015

Scenes from the show floor at the 2015 International CES on January 8 3D printing comes to life at the 2015 CES.

Mercedes-Benz new concept car F 015 was revealed during their keynote address

GoPro Founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman delivering a keynote address at the Leaders in Technology dinner at the 2015 International CES

Scenes from the show floor at the 2015 International CES on January 8

Top CES Camera Launches • Sony FDR-X1000V and HDR-AS200V 4K camcorders.

• Nikon D5500 entry-level DSLR. • Panasonic LUMIX SZ10 compact camera with tilting screen for selfies, LUMIX TZ70 LUMIX TS6 and TS30 rugged cameras, camcorders HC-W570, HC-V270 and HCV160.

• Canon PowerShot: SX710 HS, SX610 HS, SX530 HS, SX710 HS and SX610 HS, ELPH 170 IS, ELPH 160, Connect Station.

CES Imaging Trends Drones

One of the biggest trends of the show – with huge potential to impact the photographic market – was the rise of the commercial drone.

In fact, a whole section was dedicated to them.

“Drones are arguably the most hyped product at CES,” said CSS Insight analyst Ben Wood.

But it can’t all be hype: the CEA said the drone market should be worth as much as £86m in 2015 – that’s a 50% increase on 2014.

Exhibiting drones included:

• EHang Ghost, designed to capture aerial

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Having fun on the CES show floor

Clyde Drexler at the ZTE press conference

photo and video, controlled by smartphone or tablet.

• AirDog comes with an accompanying armband that relays data back to the drone, so it can keep track of your movements.

• Hubsan FPV X4 is a palm-sized 6-axis drone with an HD camera. Radio control has a built-in screen so the operator gets a first person view from the camera.

• Maxaero X-Star with an HD camera on a 3-axis gimbal.

• Zano, another palm sized drone controlled with a smartphone that can avoid obstacles and know where it is in conjunction with your smart device.

consumer goods, from toys and electronics to clothing, shoes and even food.

“The vast expansion of the 3D printing footprint at the 2015 CES speaks to the category’s potential to become a major disruptor in the global economy, and confirms that CES is the platform to see the future of printing come to life.”

3D Printing

• HTC Desire 826 with 13MP front and rear camera for selfies that are just as high quality as other photos.

• Kodak IM5 13MP aimed at the older generation .

• Oppo N3 had a motorised spinning camera for ‘superpowered selfies’.

• LG G Flex, with curved display.

• Huawei Honor 6 Plus with two 8MP cameras with dual focus technology.

• Lumix CM1 Smartphone/camera hybrid with 4K video.

There were 57 3D print companies exhibiting at CES 2015, showcasing a variety of different devices, with costs ranging from $70 to $100,000.

The 3D Printing Marketplace covered more than 14,000 net square feet of exhibition space. Karen Chupka, Senior Vice President of CES, said: “With huge advancements in digital technology, 3D printers are moving toward more compact units that are more suitable for consumers and capable of printing a variety of

Mobile Photography

The selfie buzzword might seem ‘so last year’, but the trend was still rife at CES, with companies producing a variety of products making it easier than ever for consumers to take self-portraits.

Mobile Launches included:

CES 2015 Both Panasonic, Nikon and Pentax attended CES this year. Here, we catch up with Filipe Sa Nogueira and Simon Iddon to find out how the show went for them: ‘In 2006 Panasonic launched the first compact camera with 10x optical zoom in the industry (TZ1) and “created” a totally new segment of compact cameras with high optical zoom: the new “traveller zoom” cameras were an immediate success and as a consequence the superzoom category has been quickly joined by all major brands and is nowadays very popular with consumers.

Panasonic is the market leader in technology breakthroughs in superzoom: in 2014 Panasonic launched the first superzoom model with EVF (TZ60) which continues to be an USP. Now the new model TZ70, launched in March, features enhanced picture quality in low light conditions thanks to its sensor with larger pixels.’

- Filipe Sa Nogueira, Product Manager DSC, Panasonic UK

“The Nikon D5500 was announced at CES this year, along with a number of COOLPIX cameras. It’s an Advanced Beginner level DSLR camera that appeals to a wide audience; from people new to SLR photography to enthusiast photographers looking to take their images to the next level.

Features such as the Effects mode and vari-angle screen encourage photographers to get creative and shoot from new perspectives particularly useful when shooting video. Smart phone users will appreciate the responsive touch screen technology that has been included in the D5500, along with the built-in Wi-Fi that allows photographers to upload images immediately to their social networks. All of this packed into the newly designed slim and lightweight DSLR body.”

“The Nikon D5500 is available as body only or kit options which include the 18-55mm VR II lens or 18-140mm lens for those looking for more flexibility.”

- Simon Iddon, Group Product Manager, Nikon

Pentax Ricoh Imaging made some interesting suggestions during CES and since the event, news of new product has come through to the UK market. We asked Jonathan Martin, General Manager UK & Ireland to give us the lowdown. He told us that...

“Our Continued development of our range of DSLR products is highlighted again today with the announcement of the new KS-2 DSLR. This is a mid range product with full feature set including 20 meg cmos sensor without AA filter weatherproofing, wifi and, flip screen. Available in 9 different colour variations and in the UK market from the end of February”.

“We are also very encouraged by the continued development of our range of lenses. This was highlighted by the announcements made recently which included two lenses the HD 150-450MM f4 5.6ED and the D-FA 70-200 F2.8ED DC AW, both of which will add to the already available extensive range of K mount lenses. At CP+ we will showcase a new reference product which will feature a full frame size sensor, the plans are to come to market with this product during 2015 so exciting times ahead”.

- Jonathan Martin, General Manager, Pentax UK & Ireland

www.pixel.co.uk 11

GFK REPORT

What Can We Expect From The Drone Market This Year?

GfK Account Director Richard Gregory reveals his predictions for the up-and-coming drone market

Photo by http://photojojo.com

W

e have seen the continued importance that changeable lens cameras have in the total imaging market, although overall sales have declined there’s a multitude of accessories that can be bought after the initial sale - a natural way to keep the tills ringing.

At GfK we track most of these and understand the attachment ratios of bag, tripod and lens sales in addition to memory cards, filters, flash guns and even selfie sticks.

In 2014 we saw great results from these areas, even though the hardware was struggling. All are natural extensions to an existing piece of hardware but some products buck the trend and are harder to predict.

Action cameras have grabbed the attention in the last couple of years and the continued exaggerated growth rates (the envy of most electronics markets these days), show that an exciting new product, category, or innovation can transform a market. A great example of this is tablets for mobile computing.

So in advance of the launch of our drone’s retail sales tracking panel, I hope to deliver some insight into a potential trend that we can expect to see.

up to the £200 mark – the market entered its teenage years, before the real growth spurt from 2013.

So what can we expect for drones? Sales have begun, but we shouldn’t anticipate large volumes to appear overnight. The need for the category has to be understood by the mass market, prices need to stabilise and brands have to become regular household names. Not to mention that regulation seems to be on its way following privacy and security concerns. We could see another two years of modest sales before a significant growth stage.

The drone market already exists but is still in the niche zone. Huge amounts of column inches are devoted to these products.

Manufactures aim to get drones into the mass market in the next 12 months before the mood swings. Key household brands need to be established and the pricing stabilised, but we expect more modest sales before this stage.

“The drone market already exists but is still in the niche zone. Huge amounts of column inches are devoted to these products. Manufactures aim to get drones into the mass market in the next 12 months before the mood swings.”

12 www.pixel.co.uk

I will be using action cameras as my comparative base due to the specialist nature of the product. As predicted, there were small sales to begin with, but this carried on for some time even as one of the main brands, GoPro, entered the market in a significant way in Q4 2010. 2012 even saw the market decline for most of the year as launches of the more recognised products pushed the average price

THE NEW PHO TO COLLECTION

www.pixel.co.uk 13

LUMIX GF7: A Retailer’s Guide Panasonic has announced the launch of its latest interchangeable lens compact camera, the LUMIX GF7 – due to go on sale in March 2015. Here, we’ve compiled a brief retailer’s guide to help convey the camera’s top features to customers.

“This is for young, welleducated city dwellers.

They’re ambitious, career focussed and always on trend.’’

- Barnaby Sykes

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I

ntroducing the all-new Panasonic GF7. The GF range of cameras from Panasonic have been targeting the entry level photographer since its arrival, but since we’ve seen the GM series arrived, the GF seems to have stepped back a little. Superseding the GF6 though, (after a short period) the GF7 promises to shine through with the 16mp sensor, found in the GX7.

With wifi connectivity and a full 180 degree tilting monitor, this model promises its user the ability to take the ‘ultimate selfie’, here’s a complete rundown of the new model’s features and target, outlined specifically from a sales perspective.

Pixel asked Barnaby Sykes, Head of Imaging Marketing at Panasonic UK who this new model is aimed at. He told us that the target

audience for the GF7 is those who have ‘got to have it’.

He continued by telling us that the market are, “Young, well-educated city dwellers.

They’re ambitious, career focussed and always on trend. They have the cash to flash and do so. 1/3 have kids whilst the rest are still living the single life. They have a high income which they need to support their material focus and love of designer labels.

They’re drawn to the latest trends but also like a brand that gives something back.

“Their camera is a fashion accessory so they must have the latest, best looking camera and accessories. As it’s just to look good their spend isn’t that high, but they frequently update and they like sharing via photo applications”.

LUMIX GF7 ‘A joy to hold’

The LUMIX GF7 is Panasonic’s latest foray into the world of mirrorless photography, feeding the market demand for heightened control and quality in a simple, compact and affordable camera body.

According to Panasonic, the new model has been ‘ergonomically designed’ to be a ‘joy to both hold and operate’, with a stylish leather-feel grip and compact structure.

Higher-end style

Panasonic diverts from the rounded, plastic designs of its previous GF-series cameras, this time drawing inspiration from its GM mirrorless full-sensor line. Like the GM1, the GF7 sports a classic-style design, all leather and magnesium plating. However, it is also about 20% bigger as - according to Panasonic, people wanted ‘just a little bit more camera to hold onto’.

“This large, advanced sensor - in combination with a Venus Engine image processor – reduces overall noise in your photography and videography, mean you can achieve clear, smooth results even when shooting in low light or at night”

Higher quality imaging

The LUMIX GF7 comes with a 18MP Micro Four Thirds Digital Live MOS Sensor - larger than those found in standard point-andshoots, allowing for higher quality images.

Panasonic said: “This large, advanced sensor - in combination with a Venus Engine image processor – reduces overall noise in your photography and videography, meaning you can achieve clear, smooth results even when shooting in low light or at night.”

Easy Movie Shooting

LUMIX GF7 owners can get their filmmaker’s hats on with 1920 x 1080 Full HD video in AVCHD Progressive (50p) or MP4 (MPEG-4 / H.264) format. Touch Auto Focus can also be used during recording for easy focusing, while AF Tracking locks onto a subject as it moves around.

Me Culture

It seems Panasonic has kept the vanities of the younger generation in mind with the GF7, incorporating a 3.0” 1040K-dot touchscreen that can be tilted by 180º – ideal for taking selfies (users can point the lens at

Overview Camera Type

Interchangeable lens digital compact system camera.

Target Customer

Enthusiasts looking for an upgrade from point and shoot, with versatility and quality in a compact body. Young people in particular will appreciate the easy wireless sharing capabilities and new hands-free ‘selfie’ mode.

Quick-Fire Selling Points

Small, compact, stylish, easy-to-use, WiFienabled and bursting with fun, creative features.

themselves while reviewing what they look like on the screen).

The team said: “2014 was the year of the ‘Selfie’ with the term mentioned more than 92 million times on Twitter. We expect this new feature for the GF7 to be a firm favourite with users.”

The camera even makes sure that, regardless of how photogenic users are, their selfies come out looking as flawless as possible. Soft Skin mode makes skin look smoother and blemish-free and Slimming Mode sharpens the subject’s face to make it appear slimmer, giving users the celebrity airbrush treatment, without needing to be a Photoshop pro.

Encouraging Creativity

The LUMIX GF7, is positively ‘bursting’ with artistic functions, according to the company.

This includes 22 filter options, inviting users to explore Retro, Dynamic Monochrome and Toy Effect with their scenes.

A neat feature here is that the camera will take two photos at once - one with the filter and one without, so users can compare the results later.

Other modes to tell customers about include Time Lapse mode for documenting changes over long periods of time, and Stop Motion Animation – which makes static objects look as though they are moving.

Sharing

It’s 2015; customers expect to be able to easily share the photos they take with friends and family online. The GF7 is equipped with integrated WiFi connectivity so the camera can be linked up with a smartphone which then acts as a remote control for the shutter, zoom, focus and aperture. The remote control function can be used in conjunction with Panasonic’s new Jump Snap function. When a group of people jump into the air, the remote control will detect the highest point of the jump and release the GF7’s shutter to get the perfect shot.

RRP: £429 Available: March 2015

www.pixel.co.uk 15

BIG INTERVIEW

No Selfie Sticks Please, We’re Photographers Zoe Thomas interviews Alex Falk, founder of legendary photographic dealer Mr Cad

“I didn’t spend the last 55 years building Mr Cad up to sell a selfie stick. We are never going there.”

16 www.pixel.co.uk

“

Selfie sticks? Why would I ever sell selfie sticks?” Alex Falk responds, as if he can barely process the enormity of my question. Far from suggesting he set fire to his new photography shop in Pimlico, London, I had merely asked whether the 76-year-old industry veteran intended to capitalise on one of the biggest photography trends sweeping the world. No, was the resounding answer. “I didn’t spend the last 55 years building Mr Cad up to sell a selfie stick. We are never going there.”

Mr Falk could be forgiven for his outrage at such a suggestion. For a traditional film photographer who’s been selling ‘serious’ camera equipment for over half a century, something as gimmicky as the selfie stick, a monopod for taking self-portraits with a smartphone, must seem more like a scourge of the disposable modern age than a trend.

But behind the disdain, there’s a tone of

sadness. Alex Falk’s world has changed. The photographic industry as he knew it is dying.

“Today, dealers are at the mercy of the manufacturers,” he laments. “They are murdering the prices of cameras so there is no profit left to invest. The customer is gaining, the industry is losing out. That means more and more dealers will collapse. We will be left with one or two big chains. People won’t be buying cameras. They will be buying boxes from the Internet without understanding them. It’s happening every day now.”

Mr Falk’s connection with photography is deeply personal. It sparked into life on his 13th birthday, when he received a Microcord (a 6x6 twin lens reflex) made in Kingston. Where did it all go from there, I ask? “Downhill,” he replies dryly.

“My late father said if I wanted to get into photography, I had to learn all parts of it. So I

BIG INTERVIEW did. I worked in hospitals, I worked with a 3D lenticular printing firm, and when I was 16, I worked on Fleet Street.”

After pausing briefly to check if I knew about Fleet Street (the selfie-stick question seems to have shaken his confidence in me), he continues: “I was a runner for Reuters. I was there on Coronation Day 60 years ago.”

His job was to assist photographers during the ceremony and afterwards make his way as quickly as possible back to Fleet Street from the Abbey, carrying a satchel full of precious 5 x 4 inch double dark slides to be processed.

“It was a very, very long day with a lot of fun and tension. On the scaffolding, we were looking down the aisle towards the entrance,” he recalls. “For a young lad it was very, very impressive. It was overwhelming because it was very awe-inspiring. People from all over the world were there. London was heaving. I had never seen anything like it. It was packed - every inch.”

Mr Falk opened his first Camera shop, named ‘Camera Corner’, on Pit Lake Bridge in Croydon, Surrey. By the ‘80s he had expanded to nine outlets from Brighton to Colindale, renaming the business Mr Cad. But this model didn’t last. With a major change in direction and re think, Mr Cad downsized to the 700sq ft head office building in Croydon..

In 2013, the shop relocated to Pimlico in London. “Aren’t you going to ask why?” he asked. Why? “Because we are now focusing on the overseas market. That is the core of our business. We’ve found a lot of our overseas customers would not come to Croydon because it’d got a bit of a reputation.

“China never had film, so now it’s in demand over there because it’s more creative than digital. People think film’s dead but the reality is far from it. If I said you could have a tiny proportion of a colossal market, or the entirety of a small market, what would you choose?

You’d choose the small market. That’s exactly what we’re doing.”

He says the move has been ‘very traumatic’ – due in part to adjusting to a much smaller space. Mr Cad’s stock is still varied and plentiful, offering everything from antique APeM box cameras, to the latest digital cameras.

Eight years ago, Mr Falk was approached with the idea of getting involved in the Impossible Project, a campaign to keep producing and selling classic Poloroid cameras and films.

He explains: “Having been involved in the Impossible Project from the very beginning, we are continuing to bring the instant films for Polaroid Type 600, SX70 and Image camera’s into the UK, as well as 10x8 and 5x4. We are still selling outdated film from 35mm to 10x8 Colour, B&W, Neg or Slide - it’s a Mr Cad speciality.”

He also reveals that February should see the relaunch of 5 x 4” polaroid film, with more details to follow.

So, if not selfie-sticks, what does 2015 hold in store for Mr Cad? “Much of the same,” Mr Falk replies sagely. “Much of the same but better.”

www.pixel.co.uk 17

THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW

Go Photography Show!

In the run up to the 2015 Photography Show, we chat to the team about what’s coming up in March...

I

t seems quite hard to believe that it was almost two years ago that our beloved Mary (Walker) put on her last event at the NEC in Birmingham. Pixel had awarded her with the Outstanding Contribution to the Industry award just a year earlier and Focus on Imaging had given so much to the imaging industry over the years, some thought it would carry on forever.

Such a shock it was, when Mary decided to stop producing the event, that the entire industry was in turmoil for a considerable period, trying to figure out what would happen to fill the void. Every industry needs its specialist show and this was ours after all.

Lots of plans were hatched and eventually, calm was restored when Future Publishing announced that they would pick up the mantle and continue to produce an imaging event at a similar time of year, in the venue that had delivered year after year.

It’s been quite unanimous and hard to argue the fact that Future delivered a fantastic event in 2014, with a re-energised audience and a

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hugely dynamic event program to boot.

Regardless of any dealer-specific content in the programming, we are steadfast in our belief that every UK dealer should attend this event, if for no other reason than to be enthused and motivated by the sheer numbers of potential customers that there are out there.

Photography continues to be of huge interest to consumers and a substantial market for enthusiasts and professionals. Where better to see the latest trends and products?

With promises of a bigger and better event in 2015, we thought we ought to catch up with the team to find out what’s on offer for the UK imaging dealer this year…

Hi TPS team. The Photography Show is largely a consumer & pro facing event, what would you say are the main reasons for the UK dealer channel to attend?

The Photography Show is the only UK event hosting all of the major manufacturers so it’s a great opportunity to see the products they are

putting in the spotlight and catch up on their plans for 2015.

There’s also no better place for dealers to see what’s creating a buzz for consumers in imaging, plus they’ll get a chance to network with their customers around the show and keep abreast of the competition.

Do you have much of a trade programme lined up?

For the trade we’ve focused on providing as many exhibiting companies as possible to give them a truly comprehensive view of the market.

An increasing number of our exhibitors are at the show to meet the people involved in the UK photographic industry - not just consumers and professional photographers.

This year’s event is looking bigger and better than last year. Can you give us an overview of what’s new this year?

It’s hard to believe that it’s nearly time for the second ever Photography Show! After the

THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW

Important information: • The Photography Show takes place from 21-24 March 2015 • Location: Hall 5, NEC Birmingham • Free entry for trade visitors when registering in advance at www.photographyshow.com before 18th March.

success of last year the aim for this year is to develop areas of the show and build on that success, creating a top quality industry event for both our exhibitors and visitors.

This year we’re delighted to present a full line-up of the major camera manufacturers.

That will include Sony, Pentax and Leica, all notable absences from last year.

We also wanted to provide some new experiences for our visitors based on the photography trends we’re seeing. Our visitors can enjoy practicing their street photography with live demos from professionals on our urban street stage ‘Streetscape.’ Keen mobile photographers will be able to get advice from top mobile photographers and speak to experts from tech website TechRadar.com about the best photography apps at our new theatre ‘Mobileography.’

It’s important for The Photography Show to be accessible to everyone who has a passion for photography, so we’ve created

a ‘Beginners’ Mastercass’, which aims to demystify terms and techniques for complete beginners, this should also create a new audience of aspiring photographers for our exhibitors.

We’ve created even more opportunities for professional photographers this year by extending the ‘Pro Conference’ across two days (Monday 23 and Tuesday 24). This conference is designed to address difficult business issues faced by today’s professional but also aims to discuss creative challenges.

The Creative Advice Network have also come on board and will be running the ‘Ask Us Anything Hour’ in the Bowens Lounge (Tuesday 24) which is ideal for any pros seeking business or creative advice. The Master Photographers Association (MPA) have organised a networking session (Monday 23) to connect pros with models and top stylists, giving them the chance to meet a team of creatives who can inspire their shoots. There will be a further networking opportunity taking place on Monday evening where ten top pros will be delivering ten top tips ’10 by 10’ followed by some drinks on us to say thank you for visiting.

You’ve also probably seen by now that the show has a brand new Super Stage line-up which we’re particularly excited about. This year the stage will be graced by none other than the legendary Don McCullin and world famous documentary photographers Mary Ellen Mark and Martin Parr. The A-list line up also includes; Michael Kenna, Susan Meiselas, Lynsey Addario, Simon Norfolk and Tim Flach.

“An increasing number of our exhibitors are at the show to meet the people involved in the UK photographic industry - not just consumers and professional photographers” There have been a number of developments to the overall visitor experience. The show has moved to Hall 5 for 2015, which is a shorter walk from the train station and a larger space, giving visitors a more spacious experience.

We’ve also added a ‘Food Gallery’ for visitors to enjoy more varied food and beverage options, they’ll also be able to browse our photo galleries while they eat or take a break from the show.

It’s also worth mentioning that Virgin Trains are offering a 25% discount to visitors to the NEC this year, which is well worth taking advantage of.

Do you have any trade entry deals that our readers can take advantage of?

The Photography Show is free for members of the trade when they register in advance at www.photographyshow.com. Registration closes on 18th March and the standard adult ticket price applies on the door.

www.pixel.co.uk 19

BIG INTERVIEW

Return of the MAC MAC Group Global launch UK and European division, introducing new brands

O

K, so it maybe a slightly cheesy opener but Pixel recently learned the news that MAC Group Global have pieced together a UK and EU division of the business, launching with a handful of brands which, until now, have either been unavailable to dealers or distributed by third parties. Namely Benro, Induro, Tenba and the extremely colourful MeFoto range.

Having pieced together a ‘dream team’ of UK industry professionals to bring these brands to market, MAC Group Europe Ltd has been born and is open for business.

We caught up with Jan Lederman over lunch to lean more about the operation, the people involved and of course, the opportunities for the UK dealer channel.

Hello Jan, can you give us a brief history of Mac Group and an overview of the global setup?

25 years ago, MAC Group began their legacy in the photography industry by importing and distributing Mamiya cameras exclusively into the United States. Soon after, as photographers began looking for better

20 www.pixel.co.uk

solutions for their image-making needs, MAC Group expanded their distribution of cameras to also include accessories, with the explicit purpose of providing professional photographers, filmmakers, educators, and students with the world’s finest image-making tools, education, and inspiration.

However, what makes MAC Group special isn’t just their long-standing history of importing and distributing some of the world’s best photographic equipment; it’s actually the way they approach the distribution of those products. This is best exemplified by the MAC Group logo, which symbolises our focus on integrating three critical components: 1. Our marketing communications group builds brand identity and delivers its message across a full range of relevant touchpoints.

2. Our sales group focuses on the reseller channel and the professionals who create images.

3. Our distribution group handles all aspects of customer service, finance, warehousing and shipping, with the ability to also service every product we sell.

By providing these all-encompassing marketing services with a singular vision, MAC Group can quickly adapt to changing market trends. We continually modify campaigns already underway, refocus shipping, and otherwise coordinate and alter promotional and distribution efforts to promote our brands with unparalleled precision.

Active photographers and filmmakers ourselves, we recognise professional creators of stills and video demand and deserve only the very best tools and technology. Accordingly, we are proud to represent market-leading brands which comply with this ethos.

What have been some of the key moments in the business that have led to your EU launch?

The photography and filmmaking categories are evolving faster than ever in their history.

As an organisation, we are deeply committed to not just keeping pace but to lead the way towards meeting the ever-changing needs of dealers and customers in the photo and video markets. We were there when photographers switched from film to digital. We were there

BIG INTERVIEW

when photographers started using DSLRs for high-end professional photography. We were there when DSLRs started capturing motion. And we will be there for the next great technical advancement that pushes the ability of our filmmakers and photographers to create world-class imagery. We care about our customers and the imagery they create.

We continually look at the needs of dealers and customers - not just in the US but also in the rest of the world - and saw an opportunity in Europe in helping dealers in that region of the world become more successful. Our fully integrated approach and commitment to maximizing dealer profitability comes from a simple place. We love photography and filmmaking and will do everything we can to offer passionate customers with the best and broadest range of gear available.

Can you condense your company philosophy into a single paragraph?

We have a “company within a company” philosophy. Each product brand we market is run as its own company, with its own needs and marketing demands. We appoint a product marketing manager and technical sales manager to each brand.

Their sole responsibility is to make sure the needs and goals of the brand are met and be brand champions. In addition, each brand draws strength from being part of MAC Group, both in respect to our Dealer Network and long-standing relationships in the industry. The net effect is a strong unity of professional products.

How does the line up of brands stack up globally/market shares etc?

We are a strong number 2 with a 10% market share and naturally our sights are firmly set on becoming the market leaders.

What are the key opportunities for the traditional UK photo dealer and what kind of support can they expect from Mac Group?

In Europe, MAC Group Europe Ltd. will be responsible for the sales and marketing of 5 brands: Benro - tripods, monopods, heads & photo bags, Induro - Pro photo and video tripods, MeFOTO - colourful tripods, Tenba camera bags and Aircases and Vü - filters for photographers and filmmakers. We believe that we can offer significant opportunities for the UK photo dealer, we want dealers to stock our products knowing that we are working to create demand for the brands we supply and their customers will understand what makes these brands unique and be asking for them by name. We appreciate that margin is important for dealers selling accessories and we want them to enjoy healthy retained margins on all of our products.

Lastly, but by no means least, we aim to excel at service. We will be keeping substantial stocks in our warehouse so that products are readily available when required.

Tell us a little about the UK and EU team.

We have built an experienced team focused very much on sales and marketing.

Nigel Fielden will lead the European team as Managing Director, having set up and managed Lowepro in Europe for a decade and

“We have a “company within a company” philosophy.

Each product brand we market is run as its own company, with its own needs and marketing demands.”

later having held a senior European role with Manfrotto Distribution.

Our UK team will be headed up by Gary Sutton, well known for his time with Minolta, Samsung and GE cameras. Mark Hoskins will be bringing his expertise to our product and marketing as the Brand Manager for Europe.

Guy Shirm, Export Sales Director, will be responsible for the independent distributors in Europe.

Credit Management will be looked after

by Gaynor Jackson who has considerable knowledge of the photo industry.

The European Headquarters will be based in Wolverhampton with sales offices in France and Germany. Distribution will be from a central warehouse in the Netherlands.

Finally, what do you tend to do with your spare time Jan - if you ever have any?

When Jan isn’t travelling the world in search of new business opportunities, he’s on the phone talking about new business opportunities. Or doing whatever his wife Debbie asks him to do.

Otherwise scuba diving, boating and jet skiing brings him big smiles.

MAC Group Europe Ltd. will be fully operational from Monday March 2nd. For further information please contact Gary Sutton at gary@macgroupeu.com or Nigel Fielden at nigel@macgroupeu.com

www.pixel.co.uk 21

Canon Connect Station CS100: A Retailer’s Guide

Canon’s Connect Station CS100 was announced at the beginning of CES in January. Here’s our overview of the device’s top selling points and features, with commentary from a Canon spokesperson

22 www.pixel.co.uk

CONNECT STATION

“In an age where practically every electronic device in the home has the capability to take photographs, it would be useful to have a single device that collates all of those images in a single place”

I

n an age where practically every electronic device in the home has the capability to take photographs, it would be useful to have a single device that collates all of those images in a single place. At least, that seems to be Canon’s thinking with the recently announced Connect Station CS100. The WiFi and NFC-enabled storage device has been described as a ‘natural evolution’ from the brand’s cloud-based service, irista.

Our Canon spokesperson said: “The Connect Station CS100 is designed for anyone who wants a simple way of consolidating their images and movies, from which it is easy to view, manage and share. It will appeal to people with large volumes of images who value simplicity, and photography enthusiasts who are looking for a central storage location for images.”

The product is the result of Canon’s own research, which found that: • People take an average of 191 photos a month, equating to 2,292 a year and 22,920 in a decade.

• On average people store 2,200 images across multiple devices.

• 78% use a mixture of storage solutions, including CDs, DVDs, USB hard drives and memory cards.

• Over 1.8 billion photos are shared over social networking and messaging apps every day.

Our Canon spokesperson elaborated on this, saying: “Previously people have been frustrated with storage on their computers and worried about hard drive failures, so the Connect Station CS100 will provided a good solution.

Additionally, Cloud services, like our very own irista, have increased in popularity and the evolution is a simple transfer/storage solution like the CS100.”

Top Selling Points

• Collate all images from all devices in a single place.

• Upload images/videos to and from Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and cloud services with WiFi or NFC tap technology.

• HDM1 output enables Full HD. • 1TB hard drive.

• Send straight to wireless printer.

• Send and receive images from other Connect Stations.

Canon, best known for its expertise in camera technology, says the Connect Station represents its mission to assist in every part of the customer’s ‘imaging journey’ - not just taking the photos, but sharing, displaying and storing them too.

The spokesperson said: “With the launch of Connect Station CS100 we are enhancing our services offering, and providing an additional storage option for customers. The CS100 is compatible with other Canon products, for example cameras and printers that feature NFC, so therefore acts as another imaging solution to help manage and store photographs. This give retailers another solution to offer customers who want to store their images.”

RRP: £199 Available: June 2015

www.pixel.co.uk 23

SWPP

SWPP CONVENTION IS A SUCCESS

We recently caught up with The Societies’ Company Director Colin Jones to find out how the photography event went.

“There was a real buzz around the Hilton hotel and this continued after on social media with photographers inspired and re-energised, ready for 2015.”

- Colin Jones, The Societies’ Company Director

24 www.pixel.co.uk

“

We were very pleased with the event,” Colin said. “There was a real buzz around the Hilton hotel and this continued after on social media with photographers inspired and re-energised, ready for 2015.

“Exhibitors are re-booking their trade space ready for 2016,” he added.

PermaJet, which later won Best InkJet Paper of 2014, said: “The convention was once again a success. Friday and Saturday were busy days with a great amount of footfall during the event, Sunday always by nature has less footfall but we did feel that it was even less than previous years.”

Project Manager Vij Solanki, who attended the show alongside Business Manager Steven Price, said: “Lots of people had read the many supporting reviews of the Smooth Pearl, Smooth Gloss and FB Gold Silk.”

While Vij enjoyed the venue’s central location, he felt the draw back was that people

were less inclined to take products away with them, instead asking about postage and delivery.

Connecticut-based Photo Flash Drive crossed the Atlantic especially to exhibit at the Convention, with Deb Eschinger, Director of Marketing, saying: “It was VERY busy for us and many photographers would return to our booth again later each day with colleagues and friends to show them our products.”

Deb said their most popular product was their Custom Image Wine/Champagne Box, which is a black or white box with a customised plate at the front.

Aside from a few minor bumps in relation to the venue - “Trade shows in England are a little different to those in the US,” Deb and her team enjoyed the show. She added: “We were able to connect with thousands of potential customers and met dozens of event speakers - which was wonderful!”

NEWS

Sony UK Recruits Six ‘Imaging Ambassadors’

Top photographers have been enlisted to promote the brand

Sony UK has added some Joe Cornish, Sony Imaging Ambassador new faces to its Imaging Ambassadors programme: Gavin Evans, Joe Cornish, Michael Wayne Plant, Nick Webster, Dominic Fraser and Andrew Scriven.

The programme has been designed to show customers how Sony cameras can enhance their photography skills. Through video and devestation and environmental demonstrations, esteemed shifts. photographers tell the story of their Frederik Lange, DI Category own work in fame, fashion, culture, Head, Sony UK and Ireland, sportsmandship, war, human

said: “Sony is delighted to be working with such an esteemed collection of photographers. Through our work with the Sony World Photography Awards, this announcement continues our commitment to photographers out there – Sony provides photographers with a variety of different kit options from the revolutionary full frame a7 Series to the portable detail of the RX. We look forward to seeing the work of these photographers in the future.”

GoPro Announces New Features on GoPro Hero4 The action-cam manufacturer announced firmware update at CES 2015 GoPro is set to launch a firmware update for the Hero4 action camera.

The update will enable timelapse video mode to take images continuously before turning them into a video on the camera itself, as opposed to on the desktop software as it currently stands.

GoPro will also add two new video capture settings: 720p resolution at 240fps for HD-quality super-slow-motion video, and 2.7k resolution at

6fps, which offers smoother footage for fast-moving scenes at a higher than full HD resolution.

Other updates include a frame tagging function, so users can tag moments during

playback that then flag up when it comes to editing Also, the update will activate an auto-rotate function, turning the screen upright when the camera is mounted upside down. http://gopro.com

Fujifilm Unveils Two New 50x Bridge The S9900W and S9800 have been announced Cameras The two models are essentially the same camera, the only difference being is that S9900W has wireless connectivity for image sharing, while the S9800 does not, thus making it slightly cheaper.

Top features of Fujifilm’s new bridge include a 5-Axis image

stabilisation system for movie recording, Full HD video capture, a selection of creative filter effects and of course the 50x optical zoom.

The lens has an F2.9-56.5 maximum aperture and 24-1200mm optical range that can be boosted to 100x magnification. Close ups are also easier to achieve with Super Macro mode that focuses down to 1cm.

The bridge also has a 16.2MP BSI CMOS back-side illuminated sensor with ISO sensitivity of 12,800.

A number of creative filter and lens effects are included on the camera, enabling fish-eye, pop colour, soft focus, miniature mode and much more.

Both cameras will appeal to enthusiast photographers moving from compact digital photography towards the higher quality photography.

Availability: March 2015 RRP: S9900W £299.99 S9800 £259.99

A Really Hard Drive G-Technology has launched a rugged all-terrain storage device.

The new G-DRIVE collection of portable hard drives

by G-Technology are designed to withstand difficult conditions.

There are two models available, each equipped with Thunderbolt or USB 3.0 connections and encased in an All Terrain Case that can survive a 2-6.5ft drop and float in rivers and the sea.

A new lightweight version of the G-Drive ev RaW has also been announced, complete with a ‘rugged bumper’ that increases its shock resistance.

RRP: £99.95 (1TB), £29.95 (500MB)

Kodak Branded Smartphone Announced Kodak has unveiled its first Android smartphone at CES 2015, leaving critics disappointed.

Tech Radar said the phone was ‘hardly show stealing’, while DP Review offered a scathing review, saying: “The Kodak IM5 is simply a nondescript, mid-tier Android smartphone with the Kodak name slapped on it in an attempt to attract customers who still associate the brand with quality and innovation.”

Coming from the brand that revolutionised consumer photography, expectations were always going to be high. The IM5 sports mid-range features including a 1.7 GHz octa-core processor, Android 4.4 KitKat and 8GB internal storage expandable to 32GB with a microSD. The main camera is 13MP and the front selfie camera is 5MP. It comes with its own app store called Apps, which apparently offers easy access to select applications tailored for the user.

The phone was manufactured in partnership with the British company behind the CAT tough smartphone, Bullitt Mobile.

CEO Oliver Shulte said: “This is a phone for consumers who appreciate the value and heritage of the Kodak brand. It looks great, is easy to use and offers real value for money.”

www.pixel.co.uk 25

NEWS Photo Sync App Eyefi Launches Cloud

Eyefi has released new a new cloud function enabling photographers to automatically organise and sync pictures taken on any WiFi enabled device as soon as they are taken.

It also transfers all existing photos from synced devices to the cloud so photographers can access them any time they like.

“Our customers want to focus on photography rather than on the details of photo management,” said Sam Hui, VP of Product Management at Eyefi.

“We are extremely pleased to offer photographers an engaging and integrated photography experience for all their cameras and photos so they can continue taking great pictures and enjoy them whenever they choose and wherever they may explore.”

Eye-Fi recently signed a deal with Olympus, where the company’s photo syncing and management solutions will be offered with WiFi cameras including Olympus OM-D and Olympus PEN. Additional features include: • Enhance and organise on the spot.

• Preview all photos, make adjustments.

• See what camera settings (EXIF visualisation) were used to create the perfect picture.

• View and find photos by camera.

• Browse photos by camera type to quickly find the best ones.

• Enjoy every shot, everywhere.

• Sync photos to other devices.

Smartphone Cameras Reign on Flickr Flickr has published tables mapping its users’ most frequently used cameras

The top 5 most used camera brands are: 1. Apple 2. Canon 3. Samsung 4. Nikon 5. Sony

Out of the top five brands, the most commonly used models were:

Although the figures are not an entirely accurate representation of the cameras being used by Flickr’s members (data cannot be automatically collected for some cameras), they do offer some indication of how prolific smartphone photography is becoming.

1. Apple – iPhone 5s, iPhone 5, iPhone 6.

2. Canon – EOS Rebel T3i, EOS 5D Mark III, EOS 5D Mark II. 3. Samsung – Galaxy S4, Galaxy S5, Galaxy Note 3.

4. Nikon – D7000, D7100, D3100.

5. Sony – Xperia Z3, Xperia Z2, Xperia Z1.

In terms of the most popular point and shoot cameras, the Sony RX100 came out trumps, followed by two Fujifilm models: the X100S and the X-E1.

Samsung Reveals Business-CardSized Drive The new SSD T1 has been unveiled at CES

Samsung Electronics has announced the Samsung Portable SSD T1, a portable solid state drive (SSD) designed for speed, security and style.

The company says the device

is ideal for business travellers, creative professionals and content creators ‘who need secure local storage that they can take on-the-go and use quickly to transfer large amounts of data’.

The SSD T1 is available in 250GB, 500GB and 1TB storage capacities.

It is set to launch globally in 15 countries, including the UK. “The Portable SSD T1 allows people to store their entire digital portfolio locally in one place, take it with them anywhere and have blazing fast access to their

data, all without worrying about reliability or security,” said Unsoo Kim, Senior Vice President of Branded Product Marketing, Memory Business at Samsung Electronics.

“Our digital lives demand storage that surpasses the limits of existing options, which requires consumers to compromise, when it comes to mobility, capacity, security and performance.

The Portable SSD T1 overcomes the drawbacks of alternative options on every major pain point, making it the next external storage device of choice.”

RRP: Starts at £154.79

Nikon Announces DSLR with Tiltable Touchscreen

The compact touchscreen D5500 has been unveiled at CES The D5500 is the successor to the D5300, launched back in 2013. It is smaller, lighter and this time has a touch-screen.

The new DSLR has a 24.2MP DX-format image sensor and an ISO range of 100-125,600.

Nikon said: “Combined with the power of a compatible NIKKOR lens, you get images that explode with clarity. Even when printed large

26 www.pixel.co.uk

or shown on a big screen, your photos and movies will be crystalclear reflections of the way you see the world.”

Top Selling Points: • New tiltable touch-screen allows photographers to use the camera like a smartphone.

• 9-point AF system with nine crosstype sensors.

• Continuous shooting speeds of up to 5 frames-per-second.

• Full HD video clips at frame rates up to 50p/60p.

• Compatible with the full range of DX-format lenses.

Red): £639.99

Availability: 5th February 2015

Nikon D5500 body and 18-55 VR II lens (Black or Red): £719.99

RRPs: Nikon D5500 body only (Black or

Nikon D5500 18-140mm VR (Black): £899.99

ARE YOU READY?

The Next Step in Communication for the Imaging Industry Contact amy@pixel.co.uk for more information

www.pixel.co.uk 27

NEWS Curves are in: LG Launches Flex2 Smartphone at CES

The LG Flex2 smartphone was showcased at CES this week, introducing a new concept to the mobile scene: curves.

The smartphone’s display and casing is curved for ‘better grip’ making it ‘easy to hold’ and ‘intuitive to operate’, according to LG. The phone is the first to be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 810, and runs the latest Android 5.0 Lollipop.

It features a 13MP main camera with image stabilisation, a dual-LED two-tone flash and laser-guided AF (nothing new from the previous LG G3). It also has a front camera with 2.1MP for selfies.

Another nifty camera feature is the Gesture Shot control, which enables users to take a photo simply by raising their hand with an open palm, or using a clenched fist to activate a countdown.

The Flex2 is expected to go in sale in Korea in January, with release in global markets soon after.

Pricing TBC

New Lens To Be Added to Fujifilm X Series

February will see the launch of the FUJINON XF16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR, a new weather-resistant zoom lens

The FUJINON XF16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR lens will have a focal length equivalent to 24mm – 84mm (in 35mm format equivalent), and a constant F2.8 aperture throughout the range.

Fujifilm has incorporated a newly-developed coating to reduce ghosting and flare – this is called ‘Nano-GI’ (Gradient Index).

The lens is versatile, designed to cover a wide range of shooting scenes from landscape to portraiture.

As well as versatile, the XF 16-55mm is hardy. It features weather and dust-resistant casing

that withstands temperatures as low as -10º. Fujifilm said it: “Can be paired with the “FUJIFILM X-T1” premium mirrorless camera to take advantage of the fully weatherresistant system.”

Top Selling Points: • Versatile - Fast standard zoom with constant aperture.

• Crisp - designed with 17 elements in 12 groups, including three aspherical lens elements to control spherical aberration and distortion, and three ED glass lens elements to reduce lateral chromatic aberration (wide-angle) and axial chromatic aberration (telephoto).

• Rounded aperture blades for

smooth, circular bokeh.

• Best performance when teamed with an X Series camera body. Fujifilm said: “With Lens Modulation Optimiser (LMO) technology, the performance from the lens is improved even further. LMO corrects for diffraction to produce images with edge-to-edge sharpness and create a realistic threedimensional effect, even at small apertures.”

• Quiet, high speed AF. • Weather resistant.

• High quality finish with metal focus and aperture rings.

• Light - when combined with a body, the lens is approximately 60% of the weight of a full-size system.

Availability: The lens will be available in the UK from February 2015 RRP: £899.99

Phase One Releases Updated Software Capture One 8.1 launches with new updates

Capture One 8.1 has been released by camera and software manufacturer Phase One, offering new tools, increased flexibility and support for additional cameras.

Superseding version 8, launched in September 2014, the new Capture One 8.1 now allows users to edit files in other applications, including Photoshop,

from within the programme itself.

It also allows up to 16 adjustment layers to be used simultaneously.

The company claims the number of cameras that can work tethered with the program totals 350.

Version 8.1 also comes with a variety of bug fixes, including issues with preview generation, importing and dates among others.

For full information, visit http:// www.phaseone.com/en/ Imaging-Software/CaptureOne.aspx

All Photos in One Place: New Connect Station by Canon

Canon has unveiled a new photo storage device, the Connect Station CS100 The Connect Station CS100 enables users to save, view and share photos and videos from a range of devices from a single location.

The device acts as a central hub for up to 1TB of data that can be transferred via NFC, WiFi, card, or USB. Canon said: “Once stored, the Connect Station CS100 is the perfect way to relive your special moments – from holidays to weddings – with your friends and family at home.”

28 www.pixel.co.uk

The Connect Station CS100 can connect to large screen TVs via HDMI, allowing users to view their images and films in Full HD resolution. They can also be wirelessly viewed from smartphones, tablets and computers.

Using CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, the Connect Station CS100 lets users easily share their images and movies to a range of social media sites – as well as to irista, Canon’s cloud-based image management platform. Albums can

also be sent in full resolution to other Connect Station CS100s, allowing users to share with friends and families around the world, so they can enjoy and print at a later date. Users can even print stored images, without the need for a PC, using a connected PictBridge via Wireless LAN compatible printer.

RRP: £199 Availability: June 2015

NEWS

Lexar Launches Two New Professional Professional 1000x microSDHC and MicroSD Cards Lexar microSDXC UHS-II cards have been launched The cards have been designed for sports camcorders, tablets and smartphones, offering Ultra High Speed II (U3) to ‘provide faster capture, playback and transfer of photo and video files’, according to the company.

The cards captures, plays back, and transfers more than 15 hours of 1080p full-HD, 3D, and 4K video.

Lexar said they would be

‘an excellent choice’ for photographers using quadcopters to capture aerial content, as they need multiple memory cards for extended use.

Wes Brewer, Vice President and General Manager at Lexar, said: “While the new UHS-II technology allows us to boost read performance in our microSD product line by more than 50%, we’ve retained full backward

compatibility to older SD 2.0 and UHS-I SDR-104 hosts, allowing consumers to have full use in older devices while benefitting from the higher read speeds of the new interface.”

Available: First calendar quarter of 2015 RRP: £46.99 (32GB), £84.99 (64GB), and £145.99 (128GB)

GoPro To Develop Drones

Rumour has it that GoPro is developing its own range of consumer-targeted camera-equipped drones GoPros are already used by quadcopter hobbyists so it comes as no surprise to hear that the company is preparing to sell the whole kit in the near future.

The news was published in the Wall Street Journal at the end of 2014, marking a move into a brand new – and lucrative – market for the wearable action cam innovator.

According to the Journal, GoPro is looking to launch a ‘multi-rotor helicopter’ priced between $500 and $1,000 at the end of 2015.

The leap into drone technology

follows record sales last year of the GoPro cameras, up 15% since 2013. However, there will be tough competition from rival manufacturers such as established Chinese quadcopter maker DJI. But it is hoped GoPro’s established brand will give the new quadcopters lift off in this emerging consumer market.

New High-Performance Prime Lens From Nikon

Nikon has unveiled the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR at CES

Nikon has announced the launch of the first F-mount NIKKOR to be be equipped with a Phase Fresnel (PF) element, a technology that reduces the number of lens elements required to achieve highquality results – meaning clearer images with less weight.

Target Customer: Pro photographers who want performance and portability – especially sports, wildlife and travel photographers.

Nikon said: “Use of a Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element noticeably reduces the size and weight of the lens, while the combination of an f/4 maximum aperture, 300mm focal length, and impressive VR technology

enables superb results.”

Outdoor photographers will appreciate the fluorine coat, which is designed to repel water, dust, and dirt to keep images clear.

Edward Allinson, Junior Product Manager, Lenses & Accessories, Nikon UK, said: “Nikon constantly strives for new and innovative ways to ensure that each new lens offered is even better than the last. The new 300mm is a perfect example of this. The new and improved lightweight design makes portability even easier than before, allowing photographers the freedom to shoot whenever the opportunity arises. With new and improved features and optical quality, DSLR users can benefit from unrestricted usage and optimum shooting.”

Top selling points: • PF for crisp images in a light body.

• Three focus modes: A/M (prioritises autofocus even when the focus ring is in use), M/A (allows instant switching from autofocus to manual operation in AF mode), and M (manual).

• Reduction (VR) technology enables shooting speeds of up to 4.5 stops slower.

Accessories • The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4 comes with the new HB-73 Lens Hood and CL-M3 Lens Case.

• The optional RT-1 Tripod Collar Ring enables the lens to be rotated freely for better balance, and smooth transition between vertical and horizontal orientation when using a tripod.

Availability: 29th January 2015 RRP: £1,639

Tesco Begins ScaleDown

The supermarket giant has announced the closure of 43 unprofitable stores across the UK and cancels plans to open 49 ‘very large’ new stores.

After two years of falling sales and profit warnings, Tesco is now taking steps to cut its losses.

The plan involves closing its staff pension scheme, resulting in cuts of £250m, and reducing its overheads by 30%.

Investors welcomed the company’s announcements, causing shares to rise by more than 13%.

Despite plans to scale down, the supermarket enjoyed betterthan-expected sales over the Christmas period, noting a 0.1% increase on the previous period (fuel sales included).

In addition, two of Tesco’s businesses – Tesco Broadband and Blinkbox Movies will be sold to TalkTalk.

BBC Business Editor Kamal Ahmed said: “Store openings are still a vital route to gaining new customers. Aldi and Lidl are opening shops as fast as they can find the sites.”

Third Generation FlashAir III Wireless SD Card from Toshiba

Toshiba has introduced the FlashAir III Wireless SD Card, serving its own wireless LAN point which allows users to share images, videos and other files wirelessly.

The new card is equipped with new features such as the passthrough feature, allowing users to access the card and Internet simultaneously, so images can be uploaded in real-time.

The card can support simultaneous access from up to seven devices, including computers, smartphones and tablets.

Available: March 2015 RRP: 16GB - £52, 32GB - £66

www.pixel.co.uk 29

NEWS

Seven New Compact Cameras From Canon

Canon has marked the start of 2015 with seven fresh additions to its PowerShot and IXUS camera ranges

Canon’s new models, announced earlier today, include three new superzoom PowerShots, three compact IXUS cameras, and the palm-sized, square-shaped PowerShot N2.

Here, we give retailers a brief run-down of the new offerings: The bridge: PowerShot SX530 HS Canon’s latest bridge camera features 50x optical zoom with 100x ZoomPlus, fuelling the demand for compact cameras with greater zoom.

RRP: £329.99 Availability: January

Pocket-sized zoom: PowerShot SX610 HS and PowerShot SX710 HS With 16x and 30x zoom respectively, the SX610 HS and SX710 HS are designed to help novice photographers ‘get closer to those ‘hard to reach subjects’, according to Canon. Auto Zoom helps keep subjects in the frame by automatically detecting the number of people and adjusting the zoom level to determine the optimal size. Images are then shareable via WiFi and NFC. RRP: 610 – £229.99, 710 – £329.99 Availability: February 2015

Sony 4K Camcorder

Smart camera: PowerShot N2 This unique looking square-shaped camera is the second of its kind, replacing the PowerShot N which was released exactly two years ago.

The new model is designed with the selfie generation in mind, featuring a touchscreen which tilts up 180º, automatically activating selfie mode.

It also features zoom and shoot lens rings so users can take pictures from a variety of angles. Like the first version the camera, Creative Shot mode automatically generates a selection of unexpected creative treatments with every shot taken.

RRP: £289.99 Availability: January 2015

Small but perfectly formed: IXUS 160, 165 and 170 These new compact cameras are Canon’s smallest cameras to date, yet they are still designed to produce high quality images with 20MP sensors.

The 170 has the greatest optical zoom at 12x, while the 160 and 165 feature 8x.

RRP: 170 – £149.99, 165 – £129.99, 160 – £99.99 Availability: January 2015

New Camcorders in Canon’s LEGRIA Series

Trio of handheld family camcorders unveiled by Canon

Sony has launched the FDRAXP33, allegedly the ‘first 4K camcorder to feature Balanced Optical SteadyShot Stabilisation’ for clearer footage.

The new camera films at 4K 100Mbps high-bit rate and comes with Highlight Movie Maker, Live Streaming, Multi Camera Control and a built-in projector (FDR-AXP33) with powerful 50 lumen brightness.

RRP: TBC

CREDITS & CONTACTS

Canon announced the launch of three new LEGRIA HF R cameras on 5 January 2015, all featuring family-friendly functions such as ‘Baby Mode’ and file lock function to keep sentimental videos safe.

The LEGRIA HF R68, R66 and R606 all feature a 32x optical zoom lens with a 57x advanced zoom. Novices won’t have to worry about getting lost while zooming, thanks to the Zoom Framing Assist

button, which tells the camera to automatically pan out to relocate the subject before zooming back in again.

The R86 includes a Wide Attachment lens, which can be mounted on the camera to widen its view and shorten the focal length to 26.9mm (ideal for big groups at family gatherings).

Canon has added new recording modes to the models, including slow motion recording

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allowing users to cut speeds by 1/2x, and speed up events by up to 1200x.

As the first camcorder launch of the year, it’s no surprise to see sharing options on all three models, allowing images to be shared with other devices via NFC. The R606 is compatible with FLashAir SD cards, which enable users to share their footage without a dedicated Internet connection.

RRP and Availability: • R68 – £349.99, February 2015 • R66 – £329.99, February 2015 • R606 – £249.99, February 2015

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Pixel Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of Life Media Group LTD. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Pixel Magazine assume no reponsibilty for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisment contained within Pixel Magazine.

All prices featured in Pixel Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

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s d e l tr e Exp

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200

The Photography Show is the event for aspiring photographers. Join us this March and:

• See what’s new from over 200 leading brands including Canon and Nikon

• See Don McCullin, Mary Ellen Mark,

Martin Parr and more on the Super Stage

• Get top business advice and enhance your creativity at the Pro Conference

Book your ticket today (for free) at:

photographyshow.com Advanced registration closes at 17:00, 18 March, adult ticket rates apply after this date.

www.pixel.co.uk 31

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