Pixel Magazine - July 2017

ISSUE NO. 977

July 2017

www.pixel.co.uk

INSIDE PIXEL REVIEW: TOSHIBA EXCERIA PRO M402 64GB MICROSD AFTER MAY’S REVIEW OF THE TOSHIBA CANVIO PREMIUM DRIVE, HERE PIXEL REVIEWS THE TOSHIBA EXCERIA PRO M402 64GB MICROSD CARD

PHOTOKINA: AN ANNUAL AFFAIR

AS OF 2018 THE LARGEST EVENT IN THE PHOTOGRAPHIC INDUSTRY, PHOTOKINA, WILL TAKE PLACE ANNUALLY. HERE, PIXEL PROVIDES ALL THE INFORMATION AND SPEAKS TO SOME OF THE LEADING BRANDS TO HEAR THEIR THOUGHTS

THE LATEST NEWS...

TESCO AND DIXONS CARPHONE STRIKE SHOP-IN-SHOP DEAL, SAMYANG INTRODUCES THIRD AUTOFOCUS LENS, MANFROTTO PRESENTS THE NEW MANHATTAN COLLECTION AND MUCH MORE...

THE BIG INTERVIEW:

JASON MITCHELL

FOR THIS MONTH’S BIG INTERVIEW, PIXEL GOT INTO CONTACT WITH CAMERAWORLD’S MANAGING DIRECTOR, JASON MITCHELL, WHO GIVES HIS THOUGHTS ON THE CURRENT IMAGING AND PHOTOGRAPHIC INDUSTRY, DISCUSSING SOME OF THE MAJOR POINTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RUMOURS PHOTO -

IMAGING -

VIDEO

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AUDIO

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TV

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PRINT

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MOBILE

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STATS

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PEOPLE

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RETAIL

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BUSINESS

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NEWS

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NEWS

WELCOME To Pixel Magazine Now in the second half of 2017, Pixel is on hand yet again to provide you with the latest and most exciting industry news!

This month we bring you our review of the Toshiba EXCERIA PRO M402 64GB MicroSD card, plus the latest news from Fujifilm. Also, following on from last month’s announcement

of photokina becoming an annual affair as of 2018, Pixel investigates the effect this will have on the industry, speaking to some of the biggest brands along the way.

We also take a detailed look at the change in wedding photography over the years, while InPrint News focuses on nPhoto.

In addition to all of this, July’s Big Interview is that of Cameraworld’s Managing Director, Jason Mitchell, who discusses the latest goings on in the industry.

Enjoy your July read!

Jess Saunders, Editor

Samyang Introduces Third Autofocus Lens Samyang Optics has announced the release of Samyang’s third autofocus lens: the AF 35mm F2.8 FE. A tiny lens with a mighty performance, it is ideal for daily photography as well as travel photography.

This new compact and lightweight lens, together with the existing AF 14mm F2.8 FE and AF 50mm F1.4 FE lenses, now expands Samyang’s autofocus lens line-up to three.

This new lens is specifically designed to work in harmony with full frame mirrorless

cameras in Sony E mount.

For full frame sensors, the focal length resembles the human eye the most. For APS-C types for Sony alpha 6000 and 5000 series users, the lens is the equivalent to approximately 52mm, which is also one of the most popular focal lengths among photographers.

The Samyang 35mm F2.8 FE lens will be available from July, with a suggested retail price of £279.99 inc VAT.

Industry News Bites Find out more info on this month’s news bites at Pixel.co.uk

Tesco and Dixons Carphone Strike Shop-in-Shop Deal Tesco and Dixons Carphone have announced plans to roll out concession trials in some of the grocer’s largest stores.

Currys PC World, owned by parent company Dixons Carphone, is set to launch two new shop-in-shop outlets in Tesco Extra stores in Milton Keynes and Northampton.

Tesco said the new partnership seeks to offer customers the “best possible range of services” and looks to be in direct response to its key rival, Sainsbury’s inclusion

of Argos stores across its estate.

Dixons Carphone’s UK and Ireland Chief Executive, Katie Bickerstaffe said: “Customers tell us they want to pick up the latest electrical products conveniently and at competitive prices, with expert advice and from someone they trust to keep them working seamlessly.

This trial gives them all of this during a weekly grocery shop, which we hope they will enjoy.”

Hireacamera.com Introduces New London ‘Click and Collect’ Service Last month saw the launch of Hireacamera’s all new ‘Click and Collect’ service. As part of an expansion of services offered by Hireacamera, it will now be possible to collect and return hired equipment to their new London base at Cherryduck Studios in Wapping.

Hireacamera’s Managing Director, Guy Thatcher commented: “We know that flexibility and convenience are of paramount importance to our customers. So, giving them the option to collect and return the equipment they hire

to a central London location enables them to work around their busy shooting schedules more efficiently. And what’s really exciting about having a permanent presence in London is that we will be able to respond to hire requests faster than ever before.”

At the moment, this service is only being offered to photographers, filmmakers and creatives working within London, but this is the first stage of wider plans to roll out a ‘Click and Collect’ service Nationwide.

Visit Hireacamera.com for more information.

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www.pixel.co.uk 3

NEWS Digitalab Wins Large Trader of the Year at The Newborn Photography Show Digitalab has won big at the prestigious Newborn Photography Show, the largest show of its kind in Europe, held last month at Fillongley, Warwickshire.

The highly competitive Large Trader of the Year category is voted for by photographers and includes many of the best professional photography services from across Europe.

This award reflects the focus Digitalab have directed toward the booming newborn photography sector. Through proactive and targeted

marketing campaigns, Digitalab have spoken directly to baby and children photographers of all levels.

“The printing market has changed a lot in recent years and we have adapted with it to meet our customers’ changing needs, while at the same time sharing our expertise and knowledge. We use the very best materials, including Fujifilm Crystal Archive Professional Photographic Paper, offer a full suite of printing solutions and are onhand to guide and advise when needed.”

New NanGuang LED Studio Light from Kenro Kenro Ltd has introduced a new NanGuang studio light panel. The new Combo 40C light is an innovative flat panel light that combines a powerful light source with a built-in soft diffuser to create a 2-in-1 studio light and softbox for photo and video use.

The ultra-thin design offers space savings in and out of the studio, and this light utilises high performance, low energy LEDs for maximum efficiency and best results. It features

0-100% dimming and stepless colour temperature adjustment 5600-3200K. With 400 LEDs producing 40W of power and 2115 LM at 5600K, the Combo 40C gives fantastic, even illumination across its entire surface, and comes with an additional diffuser for even softer lighting.

Power source is 100-240V AC mains and average LED life is 50,000 hours. The light head measures 230 x 400 x 60mm.

4 www.pixel.co.uk

The new Manhattan Camera Bag Collection is designed for today’s busy urban dwellers with a passion for photography.

Manfrotto’s new Manhattan Camera Bags have been conceived by an NYC-based designer to be perfect for amateur and advanced hobbyist photographers who shoot with a DSLR, CSC and/or a premium mirrorless camera with multiple lenses.

These bags support busy urban lifestyles and effortlessly adapt to keep a wide array of kit choices safe thanks to Manfrotto’s New Flexy Camera Shell at the heart of the bag.

Designed to be highly functional, the bags effortlessly

taking up no more space than a pack of 4 AA batteries.

With prices starting at under £6.00 speak to your regional sales manager or visit the Swains website www. swains.co.uk to see the full range on offer.

transform from photography to media carrier, comfortably holding all the equipment you need on an action-packed day around the city.

The new Manhattan Collection bags are made of tough, high-quality, resistant ballistic fabric, premium zippers and pullers that stay perfect despite prolonged use.

The coated material on the bottom part can be cleaned in an instant. The external fabric is water-repellent, but a rain protector is also supplied just in case.

For more information, please visit www. manfrotto.co.uk

Introducing the Garmin VIRB 360 – a Waterproof 360 Degree Camera that Shoots 5.7K

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Garmin last month unveiled the VIRB 360, a waterproof and dustproof camera that records both audio and video in 360 degrees, taking 15-megapixel spherical stills and video in 5.7K at 30fps. With a retail price of £650, it’s not cheap, but the money will buy you industry-leading resolution.

The camera offers a rare 5.7K video, and Garmin has

also built-in 4 microphones to record 360° audio, and is water-resistant down to 30 feet (10 metres) for underwater 360° footage, with a battery life of up to 1 hour 5 minutes of continuous recording.

Videos up to 4K can be stitched in-camera, and when processed with the accompanying smart phone app, they can be stabilised using Garmin’s 4K spherical stabilisation.

At £650, the VIRB 360 is one of the most expensive 360 cameras available, but with all of its available features, it appears to be well worth the cost.

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www.pixel.co.uk 5

THE BIG INTERVIEW

The Big Interview:

Jason Mitchell Continued...

“Service is king and we employ some of the best industry staff who actually care about photography and making sure our customers are treated as we expect to be treated ourselves”

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Jason Mitchell is the Managing Director at Cameraworld – one of the industry’s largest independent retailers with an expert team, demonstrating many years’ experience within the photographic trade.

After his mum realised he didn’t go to school that much, Jason was frog marched to the job centre where he eventually found a position at Londonbased City Camera Exchange in 1979.

After a few years of learning to make tea, Jason’s friend and mentor, Ken Mackinnon, realised his potential and Jason was promoted to Sales Director.

CCE was sold to Jessops in 1998, where Jason was briefly employed as a Director. Jason was then head hunted

by Tecno (owned by Charles Dunstone,

the founder of Carphone Warehouse and Julian Richer of Richer Sounds) before it was sold to Jessops in late 1999. Jason then took a short golfing sabbatical with Steve Sainsbury and Ken Mackinnon before teaming up with Tony Stent to develop the plans for the launch of Cameraworld in 2000.

Here, he explains the current industry and answers some of our burning questions…

Pixel: The industry has changed massively over the last 20 years and has seen the demise of the independent retailer. Once there were thousands and now there is a couple of hundred. Why do you think the survivors have survived and the others have slipped away?

SONY UK Jason Mitchell: Firstly, there is no demise. We have been greatly reduced to the few strong retailers such as Park Cameras, Clifton Cameras, Bristol Cameras, Castle Cameras, London Camera Exchange and ourselves who have embraced the changes and challenges that modern retailing entails.

Personal service and knowledge is king.

Sometimes competing on price from the likes of Amazon and John Lewis is difficult and that is why service is so important and we employ some of the best industry staff who actually care about photography.

They make sure our customers are treated as we expect to be treated ourselves.

It’s not all doom and gloom and we are actually growing our business and making plans for future expansion.

Pixel: Another big change in the industry was the introduction of cameras on mobile phones. How has this affected a photo specialist retailer? Are there any opportunities in that arena?

JM: This has obviously affected entrylevel compacts up to around £200. The manufacturers had a thriving business through the mass-market channel with these products, which offered huge volume and margins. That sadly has greatly declined and has affected the whole market value. We’ll never be able to compete with mobile phones simply for the reason that everybody carries one and has therefore, always got a camera with them. Most people are aware of the quality issues but they are good enough for most and people just can’t be bothered to carry a camera with them. If there were any opportunities in that area, they have already been tried and failed.

Pixel: There are lots of rumours RE manufacturers, and key manufacturers at that. What do you put their difficulties down to and could they have been prevented?

particularly poor on stock supply and we know we could have increased our mutual business by over 30% if we had stock available when we wanted it.

Pixel: Others are very strong and are growing. Equally, what is your view on their success and why they have managed to achieve this?

“Having stock available is key. Having desirable stock available is vital.

Having an effective marketing team to create demand for products through simple and easy to execute promotions are essential”

JM: Yes, what would this industry talk about if it wasn’t for some Japanese blogger spreading rumours without foundation? Mostly they are unfounded. However, I do think that if manufacturers made enough product to feed the market we wouldn’t have seen such declines over the past few years.

Some manufacturers (everybody knows whom I’m talking about!) have been

JM: Having stock available is key. Having desirable stock available is vital. Having an effective marketing team to create demand for products through simple and easy to execute promotions are essential; my three points of wisdom!

Pixel: photokina is looking to go annual. In your opinion, how does that change this international show and do you think it will affect the UK attendance?

JM: What a joke. Where do they think manufacturers are going to generate the

extra funds needed to support this annual show? I think it was poor last time so how can making it annual improve it? Why don’t they allow retailing there and fully open it up to the consumer market? That way at least manufacturers could see some sort of a return.

Pixel: With photokina taking place annually, will this affect The Photography Show as, at present, they are very close together?

JM: Well that’s a stupid question! TPS is a consumer show and appeals to a different audience. The Photography Show offers much more than photokina to UK visitors and of course visiting is a lot cheaper and so is the beer.

Pixel: You have a very exciting event coming up, Cameraworld Live. Can you give us a run down of the event and what we can expect from it?

JM: Yes we are excited about this too.

We recently had our supplier Open Day where we showcased the venue and it was very well received by all. We will have all the major camera manufacturers

www.pixel.co.uk 7

THE BIG INTERVIEW

“We, as an industry, have to continue to extole the virtues of photography and encourage the young market into photography� there including Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Fujifilm and many more. We already have over 30 exhibitors signed up. This will be the biggest London consumer Photo Show where consumers will be able to touch and try and get expert advice from professionals. We have an extensive line up of speakers for our seminar sessions and will have many photo opportunities including photo walks and a live stage.

The venue offers an amazing location in the heart of the city and is a large space, fully serviced and air-conditioned. It also has a great loading area, which is almost impossible to achieve in London!

Pixel: What is your prediction for the coming years of our industry?

JM: I think there might be a few surprises where some key manufacturers pull away from photography altogether.

There may also be a few less retailers.

8 www.pixel.co.uk

However, the few of us left will not just survive, we will thrive! We, as an industry, have to continue to extole the virtues of photography and encourage the young market into photography. I believe that the next generation will naturally be interested in photography as this is their main way

of communication through social media.

They use it every day. That can only be good for the industry a few years ahead as the idea of photography is natural and not alien. The transition to having a decent camera from a mobile phone should be easy!

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www.pixel.co.uk 9

REVIEW

Pixel Review:

Toshiba EXCERIA PRO M402 64GB MicroSD After May’s review of the Toshiba Canvio Premium Drive, here Pixel reviews the Toshiba EXCERIA PRO M402 64GB MicroSD card

B

ack in May, Pixel reviewed the Toshiba Canvio Premium Drive, and after being pleasantly surprised by the product’s capabilities, we could hardly wait to get our hands on the EXCERIA PRO M402 MicroSD. So let’s get straight to the point – the brilliant thing about this card is that it automatically comes with an adapter, which means it can instantly be used in lots of devices, including cameras, sound recorders, tablets, laptops, TV’s and drones. It’s ideal for the consumer that works with a variety of electronic devices, which is most of the photographic population these days.

First we tested the card on a DSLR at 20fps. There wasn’t any noticeable lag from the click of the shutter to image on the screen. This is a great plus for any highspeed shooter who hates waiting those few seconds to see the images appear.

10 www.pixel.co.uk

We then tested it on a drone and came to the conclusion that it read the images quickly and efficiently with no problems whatsoever.

The third test was back to the DSLR to shoot some 4K. Again, it was completely faultless.

One of the outstanding things about this card is that you can use it as a capacity expansion for your smartphone.

The new Application Performance Class A1 gives high-speed performance and reliability when storing and running Android applications on MicroSD cards.

During use, we didn’t have any problems with the card, and it comes with some great bonuses; included with your purchase is free data recovery software that can be downloaded up to a year after your purchase date. It’s never guaranteed that the data can be recovered in a card failure but it’s highly likely.

Unfortunately we didn’t take a trip to the Sahara or Arctic, but these incredible cards can be used across an operating temperature range of -25°C to +85°C. They are water, shock and x-ray proof. What more do you need?

Technical Specifications Capacity Interface Speed class Write speed Read speed Application Performance class Random read IOPS Write IOPS Sustained Sequential performance Dimensions Weight Operating temperature Storage temperature

64GB UHS-I UHS speed class 3 95MB/s 95MB/s Class 1 A1 1500 500 10MB/s 15mm (L) x 11mm (W) x 1.0mm (H) Approx 0.4g -25°c to +85°c -40°c to +85°c

www.pixel.co.uk 11

photokina:

An Annual Affair

Last month, some exciting news was revealed – as of 2018 the largest event in the photographic industry, photokina, will take place annually. Here, Pixel provides all the information and speaks to some of the leading brands to hear their thoughts

p “Trade shows are a great opportunity for us to talk to our customers and to hear from them about why they love our systems” - Sony UK’s Head of Photo Specialist Channel, Fred Lange

12 www.pixel.co.uk

hotokina is the world’s largest trade fair, held in Germany for the photographic and imaging industries. Last month it was announced that the event in the industry will become an annual affair as of 2018, rather than taking place once every two years.

Usually taking place in September of every other year, as of 2019, the trade fair will also acquire a brand new date, set to be in May. The first photokina was held in Cologne, Germany, in 1950, and since 1966 it has been held at the Koelnmesse Trade Fair and Exhibition Centre in Deutz. Many photographic and imaging companies introduce and showcase state of the art imaging products at photokina.

The show has two main competitors, both annual shows held in different parts of the world; the CP+ show in Yokohama, Japan (originally the Japan Camera Show) PMA@CES, which since 2012 has

coincided with the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

As of 2019 the trade fair will also have a new date in May. In addition to innovations from the core areas of the imaging workflow, the entire range of products, applications and services of relevance for imaging shall, in future, be presented in Cologne. With these changes, the transformation process that begun in 2016 shall be consistently continued: under the umbrella of “Imaging Unlimited”, photokina last year inspired both exhibitors and visitors and accessed new target groups for the industry.

Chairman of the PIV (Photography Industry Association), Rainer Führes, said: “The digital transformation of the imaging industry is advancing, and thus opening up new perspectives and value creation potential. The new date and the annual cycle should in future make

photokina even more attractive to all providers of the imaging ecosystem.”

“In this way, we show the specialised trade, the media and our users an even broader bandwidth of state-of-the-art products, applications and services in Cologne which especially suits the young imaging culture.”

Pixel spoke to some of the industry’s leading brands to hear their thoughts on this photokina news. Fujifilm UK’s General Manager, Theo Georghiades commented: “Although photokina started in 1950, Fujifilm’s first appearance was in 1966. We have attended every show since, showcasing many different areas of our business, all with the same common goal - helping and inspiring people with photography.

“There is always a huge air of anticipation and excitement around the event, and we hope this continues into 2018 and beyond. We look forward to seeing how photokina evolves over coming years, and we do not envisage this having a knock-on effect on any UK show.”

Sony UK’s Head of Photo Specialist Channel, Fred Lange also said: “We recognise that engaging with our retail partners and consumers at trade shows and through workshops is increasingly important and therefore, we dedicate a lot of our resource to these events.

Customers are increasingly savvy and are striving for more knowledge and insight and these platforms are a perfect way for us to engage with them.

“Trade shows are a great opportunity for us to talk to our customers and to

hear from them about why they love our systems. We are choosing to work with the best professionals in the industry and pick them to be part of our ambassador programme; as part of that programme they run workshops and talks to showcase how our Sony products give them the possibility to produce beautiful photography and videography.”

Of course, the Koelnmesse in Germany, which has been the host of photokina for a number of years, has played a huge part in the show’s success over the years, inviting people from all over the world to experience al kinds of photographic and imaging success.

Katharina C. Hamma, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse also had a lot to say: “photokina 2016 has shown us that this traditional brand in our portfolio has lost nothing of its attraction worldwide and in the region. The new concept has been a complete success. photokina has continued to develop further over time, as have the products, services and the market environment presented there.

Now we are taking the next logical step by offering a digitally powered product environment an attractive annual platform for presenting the latest innovations and for entering into discussion with traders, specialist users and end customers.”

“There is always a huge air of anticipation and excitement around the event, and we hope this continues into 2018 and beyond. We look forward to seeing how Photokina evolves over coming years, and we do not envisage this having a knock-on effect on any UK show” - Fujifilm UK’s General Manager, Theo Georghiades

For the 2018 event, though, only the series of days is changing: it will take place from Wednesday 26th September to Saturday 29th September enabling a more compact, more intensive trade fair experience.

www.pixel.co.uk 13

The Fashion of

Wedding Photography

Pixel explores the substantial rise in wedding photography, the demise of unique styles and the methods photographers of this kind can take as a step towards maintaining an original image in both senses of the word

E

verything in life evolves, including wedding photography. People who have been in the industry a long time will see the fashions. From the traditional bright looking photos to the faded blacks era which is now transitioning into the VSCO era.

Fashions in wedding photography can be a very dangerous thing. What your clients think look really cool now, might not be the case in 50 years time when they are old and grey. The problem is, photographers aren’t really to blame; it would be bad business to not create images that everyone likes. This is a business after all. The knock-on effect from this is that more and more clients’ end photos look exactly the same. Let’s be honest for a minute, the only way to tell wedding photographers’ images apart, really, is by the filters used in editing.

Five years ago, everything was better.

Photographers were forced to create their own presets, which meant that the public could tell most people’s photos apart, even with using the faded blacks. These days more and more people are switching to VSCO or creating presets to mimic its effect, which is taking people’s identity

14 www.pixel.co.uk

away. This is great for making money right now, but bad for the art.

It’s an interesting time. As much as we here at Pixel love the effect of VSCO, we are looking forward to the next era, which hopefully involves bride and grooms wanting something more individual and photographers reverting back to their own style and maintaining it.

Of course, wedding photography is a service, and it’s not just the end product that counts; an all-round professional and efficient service will make any wedding photographer more distinctive in such a competitive industry. According to USB2U, there are ways in which photographers can ensure their clients endure a stressfree day, minus the worry of ensuring the printed (or digital) memories will be just as wonderful as their special day…

1. A comfortable and appropriate outfit Try to make sure that what you’re wearing on the day is in keeping with the tone of the wedding, particularly if it is a glamorous and formal affair. Nobody would expect you to wear anything outside of your comfort zone of course,

“Wedding photography is a service, and it’s not just the end product that counts; an all-round professional and efficient service will make any wedding photographer more distinctive in such a competitive industry” but if the guests are wearing Christian Louboutins and you turn up wearing battered Converse, you will certainly stick out like a sore thumb. A little bit of thought can go a long way, and your clients will thank you - especially if you get papped in the background of a candid shot that a friend or family member have taken! Find out the colour scheme of the wedding and see if you can wear something of a similar colour or style.

2. Back up equipment Batteries, flashes, different lighting, even umbrellas! A wedding photographer must

be prepared for all outcomes, from rain to snow, low batteries to terrible inside lighting. There would be nothing worse than running out of battery half way through the ceremony, or not having the correct protection for your camera should it start to rain heavily. Lighting indoors, particularly in old buildings can be hit and miss, so a range of portable lights that can work indoors and outdoors would be useful.

3. Branded marketing materials Branding and business cards are vital.

Communicate this with the bride and groom before handing out cards on the day, some people won’t appreciate it, and some people would be more than happy for you to. You would hope that you would do such a good job that your client would refer you to their friends and family anyway, but taking marketing materials wouldn’t hurt your chances of securing another booking.

while you are capturing other people and things. A second set of ‘eyes’ in a second photographer or assistant will cover your back. And for that little extra cost, your clients will be able to see their special day from everybody’s point of view.

5. A presentation of the photos that will wow your clients Make those photographic memories even more special with beautiful presentation when you’re sending your images to your

clients. USB2U have the ability to enhance a professional photographer’s offering, providing unique and personalised wedding USB sticks as well as for births and other special occasions. Not only can the USB stick be branded, whether it be your logo or an image, you can order accompanying wooden boxes to store the USB in, which too can be personalised. A really beautiful way for clients to look back on their special day, and remember that you made that possible.

4. Have a second set of eyes There are so many different moments just waiting to be snapped at a wedding, to children making funny faces on the dance floor, to the moment the Father of the Bride wells up with pride when he leaves his daughter at the alter. No matter if you are the most talented photographer in the world, you are bound to miss some of these raw and amazing moments

www.pixel.co.uk 15

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“Let’s Get Back to a Silver Future”

A group of leading UK pro labs visited Fujifilm’s vast photographic paper manufacturing plant in Tilburg, Holland, to see for themselves that silver halide technology is alive and very much kicking Continued on P18...

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T 360mm

he Fujifilm Europe B.V challenge was to assemble a cluster of print experts from professional labs around the UK, secure their undivided time and attention for a full two days and create an opportunity to not just see the creation process first hand, but to hear about the exciting future of silver 430mm halide.

460mm The tour was also timed to coincide with the launch of Fujifilm’s new ‘Make it an Original’ silver halide photo paper campaign – which focuses on creating awareness of the blossoming silver halide marketplace and Fujifilm’s own inventory 6”x4” a range of paper sizes of twenty-seven different colour papers and finishes with varied surface types and sizes.

For those believe Gloss, Lustre,that Matte & Finethat Art.the

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or PC behind the scenes 6”to keep Fujifilm ahead unstoppable tide of digitisation has 6” all but of the game and to hear about the plans carried away traditional processes it might that are afoot to ensure that silver halide come as a surprise to hear that silver products 8” continue 6”to hold their own. halide has a future at all in fact, but 8” the Those making the trip comprised pro labs know better, and Fujifilm’s classic owners and senior managers from Crystal Archive paper, revered for its Loxley Colour, Metro, G.F.Smith, One exceptional quality and archival qualities, 1 2 3 unit units Bayeux, Digitalab, Genesis and Vision, is still the media of choice for units professional *sheets/hr *sheets/hr *sheets/hr Colorworld, who had flown in from and hobbyist photographers right across airports all around the UK. One of the truly the board. great things about the pro lab business is But nothing stands still, and the lab that, despite the fact that all of those on representatives who had been invited to the Tilburg trip are in serious competition Fujifilm’s vast Tilburg plant in Holland, an with one another, there was still a great enormous 150-acre site that, amongst 8”x39” (203x1000mm) 8”x10” sense of camaraderie in evidence, along many other things, outputs the photo 5”x7” with a willingness to network and to paper on which over a third prints made share experiences. So, it was a buzzing, worldwide are output, were keen to see lively crowd that donned the mandatory for themselves the work that goes on white overalls on that first afternoon to undertake the factory tour and to see for themselves where the papers they use actually come from.

360

720

1440

For more information call Fujifilm on 01234 572138 or email photoimaging_uk@fujifilm.com Focus on quality

Frontier-S DX-100 230x320mm advert.indd 1

Nothing was off-limits, barring those areas where coating processes need to be carried out, for obvious in 25/10/2016 reasons, 13:53 complete darkness. So, guide Wil der Kinderen who, like so many of the Fujifilm employees encountered on the tour, has worked for the company for decades, proudly showed his guests everything from the store where the vast rolls of

in print paper waiting to be coated were kept – along with the ingenious automated traverser system employed to move them around – through to the high-tech systems that cut the paper to size and take care of quality control. Everything is checked thoroughly at every stage, and attention to detail is impressive: Fujifilm’s reputation and that of its customers is on the line, and that message has clearly been received loud and clear.

There was no shortage of questions on the way round the building as the various processes were explained. Ken Sethi, CEO of Genesis Imaging, a lab that handles the printing for many major exhibitions as well as the fine art print requirements for Getty Images, was one of those that was having his eyes opened as to how much goes into the production of silver halide print materials in terms of r&d and physical production methods.

“It’s incredible when it’s all explained to you,” he enthuses, “a real eye-opener, and not at all what I imagined it to be.

Silver halide paper still represents the vast bulk of my business. It’s what brings photographers through my door, so it was reassuring to hear from Fujifilm about their confidence in the future of the product. When you hear this first hand you realise that you’re in safe hands and that you can rely totally on silver halide papers being around for the long term.”

Tim Berry, Commercial Manager at G F Smith, was another taking a huge interest in the tour, appreciating the opportunity not just to get an insight and a deeper understanding of the products that his lab uses extensively but to get a feel for what the future might hold for silver halide papers in general.

“G F Smith has worked with Fujifilm products since the start of 2001,” he says, “but I’ve personally had dealings with the company for over thirty years now on various projects. I was very impressed with the whole papermanufacturing process, but equally it was really good to see the knowledge of the staff at the factory and the pride they had in their work.”

The following day the pro lab party was back at the Tilburg plant, this time to hear from Fujifilm Product Manager Judith

van Linden and key Account Manager Evert Groen, who both gave presentations that focused on the bright future that lies ahead for silver halide paper. In particular, a dedicated website that will focus on the massively growing market for fine art prints has been launched with the aim of this driving custom to professional labs that can evangelise the supreme qualities of the silver halide papers that they’re working with.

“We are constantly working to achieve ever greater print permanence,” Evert told his audience. “Statistics show that the amount of prints still hanging on a wall after fifty or sixty years is less than 1%. That’s a reasonable lifetime but we want to extend that longevity still further.

Fujifilm paper prints are officially the best

in class amongst silver halide print types – especially our renowned DPII Professional Paper. Fujifilm professional paper prints will last 48 years under 250 lux and 12 hours’ indoor light exposure.”

The growth of albums There’s also going to be a strong focus on the booming market for albums that are printed on silver halide paper, especially those that feature a lay flat design, with Fujifilm looking to secure 50% of the album market in the not-toodistant future.

“We are seeing an exponential increase in growth,” says Judith. “Today 95% of all professional albums within the EU are created with Fujifilm colour papers. We currently have an inventory of twentyseven different colour papers with varied surface types and sizes – and of course innovative new products such as Album XS paper. Our album papers are growing

Fujifilm

“Today 95% of all professional albums within the EU are created with Fujifilm colour papers” by 17% a year and we have new papers for wall décor in the pipeline.”

“It’s great to see that Fujifilm is continuing to invest in silver halide papers in this way,” says Metro Imaging Director, Tony Window, who has worked with the company’s products for around twenty-five years now. “I was delighted to learn that the company’s paper range is going to continue to expand and obviously we’ll be looking to incorporate any new products that are introduced going forward. We’ll also be continuing to work with Fujifilm to promote the value of printing on professional photo papers, and it’s great to be hearing that silver halide has such a positive future.”

Overall this was a valuable bonding exercise, a chance to cement relationships, for those that base their businesses around the quality of silver halide paper to be able to see first-hand how much goes into the manufacturing process and to share the news about the exciting plans that will firmly establish traditional printing at the heart of professional photography for many years

to come. All of those who made the trip came away enthused and inspired, and now it’s the turn of their customers to reap the benefit of the considerable investment and development that is currently going on in the depths of that cavernous Fujifilm plant in Holland.

Make it an Original The new Fujifilm website is focused exclusively on creating awareness of the blossoming silver halide marketplace and Fujifilm’s own inventory of twenty-seven different colour papers with varied surface types and sizes.

Peter Wigington, Fujifilm UK’s Marketing Manager, Photo Imaging Group, explained: “This new ‘Make it an Original’ campaign is all about highlighting the compelling advantages of photographers using silver halide papers.

We are seeing exciting exponential growth in this sector and the website will provide access to a raft of information, including background stories, tutorials, videos and tips, alongside invitations to special events.”

He added: “We are also making available new marketing toolkits for photographers, complete with ‘Make it

an Original’ support artwork and logos to be used as a key ‘call to action’ for their customers. This is all part of a Fujifilm drive to ensure photographers’ customers can store and showcase their most significant images printed on quality papers with matchless longevity assurances.”

Enha nc the m e the valu e of ost on beco Fujifilm your phot me os ’s orig colour a one- of-a inal ph by printin s for g thos oto a very -kind item e you , keep paper. Yo long love ur ing its time. w w w.o It will intens photo will riginal be yo e and photop ur pe aper.c rsonal brilliant om ‘origin al’.

“Our new ‘Make it an Original’ campaign is all about highlighting the compelling advantages of photographers using silver halide papers.

We are seeing exciting exponential growth in this sector, so are making available new marketing toolkits for our trade partners, to be used as a key ‘call to action’ for their customers.”

- Fujifilm UK Marketing Manager Peter Wigington

Browse the new Fujifilm website dedicated to photo papers at www.originalphotopaper.com

MAKE IT AN

Original

in print

You can always trust in our photo paper, whether you’re a professional or a keen amateur photographer. Whatever you need, our range of silver halide paper types delivers exceptional quality and has the perfect product for you.

All our photo paper types guarantee: • Amazing colour longevity • Brilliant whites • Continuous tone CREATIVE PAPERS

ALBUM PAPERS

SHARING PAPERS

PROFESSIONAL PAPERS

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Professional Textured Paper Canvas

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Album Paper

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Paper

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Digital Pearl Paper

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Professional Textured Paper Linen

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Album HD Paper

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Paper Supreme

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Digital Paper Type DP II

These high-end photo papers are for professional use and requirements. They have a luxurious look and feel and a thick base, and produce deep blacks and exceptional sharpness.

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Professional Textured Paper Leather

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Premium HDX Paper X-Tra Coat

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Paper Supreme HD

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Professional Velvet Paper

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Album Paper XS

Fujicolor Crystal Archive Writable Paper

For ultimate creativity: this creative, professional range has an impressive, unique surface finish, making it ideal for all photo ideas.

Turn pictures into masterpieces for the fine art market.

Preserve and enjoy your most precious moments. These album papers are designed for beautiful lay-flat photo albums and offer ultimate paper thickness or outstanding thinness.

Turn moments into everlasting memories with this supreme paper range. Create beautiful prints and keep memories alive with excellent image stability.

www.originalphotopaper.com

NEWS

nPhoto: Printing Success

For this month’s news section, InPrint looks at nPhoto’s journey to printing success and takes a look at the newest additions to their product lines; the Canon DreamLabo 5000 and the DreamBook 4K

n

Photo is the largest digital printing company in Central and Eastern Europe. They have been successfully catering and supporting professional photographers all across Europe, since 2007 as the proud distributor of the finest quality lay-flat photo albums, photo books, prints, canvas art, USBs and more to over 12 countries in Europe. All the products are handmade with passion and professionalism. Using the newest printing technology, they strive to meet and exceed their customer’s expectations.

The ongoing investments include the manufacturing site, implementation of the newest technologies and development of new systems all to cater the rapid grow of the company. One of the latest additions to nPhoto’s printing machinery are two Canon DreamLabo 5000 production colour inkjet printers.

Canon DreamLabo 5000 uses new FINE high-density print head technology and enables an incredible image resolution of 2400 DPI. Seven dye-based

CREDITS & CONTACTS

in print

RETAIL SOLUTIONS FOR THE PRINT PROFESSIONAL

inks (including CMYK and three additional colours: photo cyan, photo magenta and gray) deliver photos with smoother gradations, faithful colours and natural

Managing Director: Lee Mansfield 01323 819007 lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Editor: Jess Saunders 01323 819007 jess@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Sales: Barry Kosters 01323 819007 barry@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Operations Director: Clare Fermor 01323 819016 clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Curator: Luke Woodford 01323 819007 luke@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Accounts: Anne Greenwood 01323 819007 anne@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Production Manager: Amy Watson 01323 819018 amy@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Sales: Jon Dawson 01323 819007 jon@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Subscriptions: Linda Grace 01323 819015 linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk

skin tones. High-density print head technology guarantees high resolution photographs, not seen at any other product before. nPhoto created a brand new lay flat DreamBook 4K that allows their customers to experience the ultra high definition in printing. Incredible image resolution is the watchword of DreamBook 4k.

It’s printed exclusively on genuine Canon paper using Canon’s DreamLabo 5000 printer. This product is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in printing.

And because it’s not only what’s inside that counts each DreamBook 4K has a handcrafted hardcover that determines the collection. Right now it’s available in three lines: Exclusive, Creative and Acrylic Prestige. nPhoto is currently working on adding more products printed on Canon DreamLabo 5000.

Published by: LMG SE LTD (Life Media Group) 1 Swan Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2BY Printed by: Gemini Press, Unit A1 Dolphin Way, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, BN43 6NZ

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.

Copyright Life Media Group LTD 2017©

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Save the date!

Tetenal Open Day Wednesday, 13th September 2017 Leicester

Fine Art Printers, Giclée Masters in Cardiff, choose the perfect time to upgrade

Meet the experts of leading photographic brands at Tetenal We are delighted to announce that we are holding a Tetenal Open Day in conjunction with leading brands Epson, EIZO, Wacom and Hahnemuhle at our centrally located headquarters just off the M1 in Leicester.

As part of this informal event you will have the opportunity not only to engage with our Area and Product Managers at Tetenal but to meet representatives of leading brands in the industry. Product experts from Epson, EIZO, Wacom and Hahnemuhle are joining us for the day to demonstrate their products and answer your questions.

For more information on the Tetenal Open Day and to register for a free ticket, visit: www.tetenal-open-day.eventbrite.co.uk

24 www.pixel.co.uk

“

Product Demonstrations: • Epson (SureLab D3000, D700 and Large Format Printers) • Kodak (APEX and Kiosk Systems) • DNP range (Dye Sub Photo Printers and Kiosks) • CS1 Kiosk • Wacom (Graphic Tablets) • EIZO (Colour Monitors) • Sunbounce & Sun-Sniper (Reflectors and Camera Straps) • JOBO (Analogue Processing Equipment) • Canvas Wrapping & Stretching

Contact us for more details | TEL: 0116 281 5741 | marketing@tetenal.uk.com