Pixel Magazine - Issue 964 - June 2016

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ISSUE NO. 964

www.pixel.co.uk

INSIDE

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June 2016

BEHIND THE COUNTER, MAKING A SPLASH! NEW OLYMPUS TOUGH ACTION CAM, IMPOSSIBLE I-1 02/06/2016 16:41 press-adverts.indd 2 02/06/2016 LAUNCH, FROSTS PHOTOCENTRE STORE REFIT, BOOK OF THE MONTH, AND ALL THE LATEST NEWS

In This Issue...

• Pixel takes a look at portable power solutions to keep cameras alive and to keep the tills busy.

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• Marking ten years of Olympus Tough cameras, the brand have announced their latest addition to the action range: the TG-Tracker.

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• Pixel join the team from Impossible for the UK launch of their new Instant Camera: The I-1.

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Pixel Launches TradeOnly Photography Competition This month Pixel’s very first photography competition launches, giving our trade readers the opportunity to demonstrate their photographic skills in a number of disciplines

Tetenal Continue To Grow Staff Numbers Tetenal, the Leicester based photographic distributor and technical support provider have added to their staff once more with the addition of Dave Beck who brings with him over 30 years’ experience of the UK photographic industry. This appointment brings the number of staff based at Tetenal’s Leicester HQ to 32.

Dave Beck has been in the photographic and video trade since 1983, starting in retail at Jacobs in Leicester where he looked after the darkroom and studio areas and recommended and sold Tetenal chemistry and papers.

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Having been the industry news provider since 1989 and hosts of the prestigious Pixel Trade Awards for over a decade, Pixel VIDEO

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announcements at the Trade awards ceremony in London this December.

has announced a brand-new photographic competition, open only to those working in photographic retail, which will culminate with -

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PEOPLE

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RETAIL

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BUSINESS

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NEWS

www.pixel.co.uk 1 OFFER AVAILABLE BETWEEN 1 JUNE AND 31 AUGUST 2016. FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND A LIST OF QUALIFYING PRODUCTS VISIT WWW.FUJIFILM.EU/UK *THE CASHBACK AMOUNT IS ONLY DOUBLED ON ONE LENS WHEN YOU PURCHASE AN ADDITIONAL LENS WITH THE X-PRO2, X-T1 OR X-E2S

New Photo Hatchback Series

Strike the perfect balance of carrying photo gear and everyday essentials with our next generation, split level Photo Hatchback II. Lightweight, flexible, sporty daypacks available in two sizes, 250 AW II and 150 AW II. Both styles provide secure, body-side access, a removable camera compartment, a CradleFit™ pocket to protect a tablet, plus a built All Weather AW Cover™ to safeguard your gear from the elements.

T F E W

0845 250 0790 0845 250 0791 info@daymen.co.uk www.lowepro.co.uk

©2016 DayMen Canada Acquisition ULC.

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NEWS

WELCOME To Pixel Magazine Welcome to the Great British summertime.

Here we are; we blink and suddenly half of the year has passed!

The good news is, though (if The Mirror is to be believed), is that our great nation is poised for a supermega-heatwave, which will burn us all to a crisp for a full three months.

At this time of year, we are all thinking about clearing off for a week or so in the sun, so in this issue we have dedicated some space to explore the many and various power solutions that are currently on the market. Essential tools for any traveller, these are must-have gadgets for holiday makers and represent margin-makers for your store, so take a look at pages 8-9 to

make sure that you’re stocking the right kit this summer.

Alongside this, we are announcing our very first Pixel Photography Competition. A trade-only competition, that could win you a seat at this year’s Pixel Trade Awards, which will be held on December 2nd at the Grange City Hotel in London. See pages 6-7 for the details.

Elsewhere in this issue, we cover all of the latest news, product launches and announcements along with our focus feature, which peers into the benefits of organising photo events in your area. See pages 12-13 for more.

All of this and so much more in your June issue of Pixel, read on and don’t forget to log in to PIXEL.CO.UK to keep up-todate every day with your industry news!

Simon, Editor Jenny, Deputy Editor

Magix Acquires Sony Creative Software Products MAGIX Software GmbH has acquired the majority of the Sony Creative Software (SCS) products. By purchasing Sony Creative Software products, including the full Vegas Pro, Movie Studio, Sound Forge Pro, and ACID Pro product lines, MAGIX aims to further cement its position in the market and accelerate its international growth.

The SCS Catalyst Browse and Catalyst Production Suite will continue to be developed by Sony for professional broadcast and production applications.

MAGIX CEO Klaus Schmidt said: “These products from Sony Creative Software are the perfect addition to our portfolio. We have already strengthened our presence in the United States in order to propel development and sales. This autumn, we plan to release new versions of the video-editing programs Vegas Pro and Movie Studio, which are heavily oriented toward the customer requirements of today.”

For more visit: magix.com/gb

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

The Photography Show Announces Record Audited Attendance Future Plc. has announced the official BPA audited attendance figure for The Photography Show 2016, held 19-22 March at the NEC. In all 30,804 pure visitors attended the show (a 4% increase on 2015).

Event Manager for The Photography Show, Cassandra Grant, said: “We ended the 2016 show on a high and it’s fantastic to have our expectations confirmed through the official audit. The increase in visitors, and their enjoyment of the event, is also reflected in the hugely positive feedback from our exhibitors - including some of the biggest brands in photography.

We’re already looking forward to the 2017 event!”

Hundreds of speakers took to the various stages across the event with the iconic Super Stage headlined by the legendary David Bailey, BBC Wildlife presenter and photographer, Chris Packham, local-born International Fashion Photographer, Lara Jade, renowed US photographers Scott Kelby, Alec Soth and Bruce Gilden plus Peter Dench and Dan Rubin.

For more visit: www. photographyshow.com

Kenro Announces Summer Arrival Of Award-Winning Ultra-Compact New Nissin Flash Weighing in at just 300g and less than 4.5 inches high, the Nissin i60A boasts a guide number of 60, making it the smallest and lightest in the highpower portable flash market segment.

The 2.4 GHz wireless i60A will be available for Canon, Nikon, Sony, Four Thirds and Fujifilm mirrorless and professional compact cameras, and is fully compatible with the Nissin Air System. Various slave settings offer other flexible optical wireless flash options.

The zoom range can be adjusted automatically or manually from 24-200mm, and the flash comes equipped with a built-in diffuser

that gives a 16mm lens coverage.

A soft box specially designed for the flash head is included to soften light output and reduce shadows, and the bounce card can be extended and retracted even when the soft box is in place. The Nissin i60A also has a video light function, with 9 steps of output level adjustment and a usage time of up to 3.5 hours.

Pricing & Availability: Trade customers, please contact Kenro’s head office directly 01793 615836 to enquire about stock delivery dates and availability.

Passport Photo System ID Station is a very easy to use solution for making passport photos.

Pictures are automatically processed into perfect ID photos.

For any country.

Tel: 01485 536 200

sales@swains.co.uk

Be the first in your area to offer Biometric Passport Photos Contact your Swains Regional Sales Manager or visit www.idstation.co.uk for more information.

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www.swains.co.uk

NEWS Samyang Optics Unveils Autofocus 14mm and 50mm Lenses

Leica M-D: The Return Of Anticipation Leica Camera has extended its iconic rangefinder camera series with a new model: the Leica M-D. The fifth product in the Leica M range, the Leica M-D joins the Leica M and M-P, the Leica M and the Leica M Monochrom, offering a greater choice for photographers looking for specific functionality from their rangefinder camera.

The Leica M-D is the first serial production model of the digital M family to be made without an LCD monitor screen. The standard location of the screen on the back of the camera is taken by the ISO sensitivity setting

dial – one of the few, but essential, features of the camera. Although the Leica M-D embodies the entire range of technical developments perfected over decades for the Leica rangefinder system, it intentionally omits all but the most vital features.

The Leica M-D is available in a black paint finish, and includes a real leather carrying strap in full-grain cowhide.

Pricing & Availability: Available now from Leica stores and authorised Leica dealers in the UK, SRP £4,650 (inc. VAT).

For more information visit: leicastoremayfair.co.uk

3 Legged Thing Announce UK Availability Of New Tripods The latest innovations from UK tripod manufacturer 3 Legged Thing are now available to buy in the UK. The three tripods - Albert, Winston, and Leo, part of the Equinox range, are named after great explorers and innovators and are designed by photographers and seasoned travellers. In addition to that, the AirHed 360 and AirHed Light offer precision engineered ball head technology. Lastly, 3 Legged Thing offer a range of tripod footwear - Heelz, Stillettoz, Clawz and Bootz all compatible with the 3 Legged Thing range of tripods.

Pricing & Availabilty: Available now Albert tripod: £329 Albert kit: £399 Winston: £379 Winston kit: £449 Leo: £250 Leo kit: £299 AirHed 360: £149 AirHed Light: £99 Heelz: £40 Stilettoz: £49.99 Clawz: £49.99 Bootz: £14.99

For further information visit: www.3leggedthing.com

Samyang Optics has announced the long-awaited launch of two autofocus lenses: 14mm F2.8 and 50mm F1.4 lenses for Sony E mount Mirrorless cameras with full frame sensor size.

The new 14mm and 50mm are the brightest lenses in their class and offer superb quality images to photographers.

Both 14mm F2.8 ED AS IF UMC and 50mm F1.4 AS IF UMC are specifically designed to work with full frame mirrorless cameras in Sony E mount. Along with portability of mirrorless lenses, the 14mm F2.8 and 50mm F1.4 are compatible with full frame sensors to deliver

the wideness and sharpness of image to photographers.

The 67mm filter diameter brings the maximum amount of light into the lens to create the best work of light in photography.

The F1.4 of 50mm and F2.8 of 14mm apertures are by far the brightest of full frame mirrorless lenses, they offer a beautiful bokeh effect and the best quality images under various exposure conditions.

Pricing & Availability: Available from June.

For more information visit: www.intro2020.co.uk

Fujifilm Announces Fujinon XF2X TC WR Teleconverter Fujifilm have announced that the new Fujinon Teleconverter XF2X TC WR will be added to the mirrorless digital camera “X-Series” interchangeable lens line-up in June 2016.

The highperformance teleconverter is capable of multiplying the focal length of mounted lenses by two.

It features excellent optical design with a construction of 9 elements in 5 groups to maintain the optical performance of the original lens.

Also, thanks to the unified

design when mounted to a compatible lens, the teleconverter is weather and dust-resistant and operates at temperatures as low as -10℃. This means it can be used with confidence outdoors when used with the weather and dust-resistant X-T1 and X-Pro2 camera bodies, and the XF50140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR and XF100-400mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR lenses.

Pricing & Availability: June 2016, SRP £349.

For more information visit: fujifilm.eu/uk

Fujifilm Hits the Road With a The Wonder Photo Tour Fujifilm have announced the very first Wonder Photo Tour, which will take place between the 18th July and 4th September this year.

Putting the word to the street, Fujifilm are taking the initiative to promote the ‘print’ message directly to consumers.

Taking in a multitude of family based events through the summer

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months, the tour has been designed to drive awareness of the current photofinishing products on offer from Fujifilm and the ‘Wonder Photo Shop’ concept. Events on the list include the Bournemouth Air Festival, Nottingham Riverside Festival and the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, to name a few.

The team from Fujifilm will be

armed with a number of tools to engage with the crowds, such as free Instax photos, photo magnets and demonstrations of the Fujifilm Imagine mobile application.

Full details will be available in

the July edition of Pixel, where we will also catch up with Peter Wigington, Marketing Manager for Fujifim UK’s Photo Imaging Group to get the lowdown on this exciting tour.

NEWS Canon Introduces World’s First AF Lens With Built-in Macro Lite

DJI SDK: Skycatch Launches COMMANDER for iOS May saw the launch of the DJI SDK: COMMANDER by Skycatch - a new iOS app that allows pilots to easily create high-resolution maps and 3D models by planning and safely flying autonomous missions. Data can be automatically uploaded for automated cloud processing and accessed via the Skycatch Dashboard to view, analyse, and share with clients and company personnel. As the advancement of commercial drone technology continues to reveal increasing

economic benefits in the commercial world, the DJI SDK and software solutions enable small and mediumsized businesses from a wide range of industries to adapt the technology to their needs.

“Collaboration is essential in helping industry professionals evolve with technology. COMMANDER opens the doors of aerial data capture so any project manager can become a drone pilot and any job site can benefit from this new data set and workflow.” said Christian Sanz, CEO of Skycatch.

Sigma Mount Converter MC11 Firmware Update Sigma have announced a new firmware update for their mount converter MC-11 EF-E and SA-E. The latest firmware update improves upon an issue that occurs when some lenses that are not compatible with the Sigma Mount Converter MC-11 are attached to the MC-11.

Sigma have said that the firmware update is not necessary for customers who are only using compatible lenses, as the issue does not occur when

compatible lenses are attached and the LED lamp on the MC-11 is green. However, they recommend that all customers update firmware for both the MC-11 and lenses to the latest version using Sigma Optimization Pro. This firmware update does not guarantee accurate operation with lenses that are not compatible with the MC-11.

For more visit: sigma-imaging-uk.com

Canon has unveiled the EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM, a new macro lens for EOS M series cameras. Compact and lightweight, the lens offers unprecedented macro capabilities and includes the world’s first built in Macro Lite, removing shadow and darkness.

With class leading magnification, the ability to focus on subjects as close as 13mm, and a body weighing just 130g, the EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM is also the world’s lightest macro lens for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.

The dedicated Macro Lite allows the user to bring the lens as close as they need without compromising on light. It can be controlled by a switch, letting the user change the lighting intensity and direction on one or both sides of the Macro Lite, allowing the creation of dramatic lighting, while the design reduces shadows cast by both the camera and lens.

Pricing & Availability: Available from June, RRP £294.99.

For more information visit: canon.co.uk

Introducing The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS Canon has released the PowerShot SX620 HS, a compact superzoom camera with 25x optical zoom. Designed to capture moments when a smartphone snap won’t cut it, thanks to the 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ processor.

With intuitive handling and a unique range of creative effects, the PowerShot SX620 HS helps the user unlock their creative side, and has effortless connectivity capabilities.

When shooting on the go, the eight mode Intelligent Image

Stabiliser adapts to virtually any scenario, ensuring subjects stay detailed and crisp.

The SX620 HS also gives the freedom to shoot Full HD movies.

Dynamic IS offers visual stability in every frame, keeping footage steady, even at high zoom or when shooting handheld.

Story Highlights stitches photos and clips together, to create memory filled snapshots of holiday or family moments.

Pricing & Availability: Available from June, RRP £219.99.

For more information visit: canon.co.uk

Samsung Introduces EVO Plus 256GB MicroSD Card Samsung has unveiled its newest memory card globally. The EVO Plus 256GB offers the highest capacity for a microSD card in its class, delivering fast speeds and an expanded memory storage for use in premium smartphones and tablets, 360-degree video recorders, action cameras, and

drones. Consumers can now record up to 12 hours of 4K UHD video or 33 hours of Full HD video on their mobile device or action camera without needing to change or replace the memory card.

The EVO Plus 256GB offers high read and write speeds of up to 95MB/s and 90MB/s, respectively.

This level of performance will provide consumers and professionals with superb user convenience for storing heavyloaded, high-resolution photography and 4K video recording.

Pricing & Availability: June 2016, SRP £170.

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THEO GEORGHIADES

Pixel Launches Trade-Only Photography Competition Continued...

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his year has seen the launch of the new industry communication, information and education platform, PIXEL.CO.UK, which will facilitate all submissions for the competition during the open stages of each category.

To properly celebrate this milestone, we are presenting the launch of the Pixel photography competition!

The brand new, web based resource for the imaging sector, PIXEL.CO.UK provides personalised product training modules and daily news updates via an interactive newsfeed.

Among the tools within the platform are market-leading training facilities and reporting functions, all developed and managed by the team at Pixel HQ. In line with the platform aims, the photography competition will only be open to retail members, giving them a chance to shine.

Limited to five categories, the 2016 Pixel Photography Competition will recognise photographic excellence in the following disciplines: 1. Landscape 2. Portraiture/Fashion 3. Wildlife 4. Street 5. Monochrome The Pixel Trade Awards will take place on the evening of December 2nd 2016 at the lavish

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Grange City Hotel, right behind the Tower of London. During the event, accolades, awards and prizes will be handed out by our celebrity host and by the judges of the competition, with all category winners being invited to join us for the evening.

A host of competition prizes will be announced shortly, but the ultimate accolade of being one of the very first Pixel Photography Competition winners, gaining a ticket for the awards ceremony will be hard to beat!

Speaking of the competition, Group Director of Life Media Group, publishers of Pixel, and Pixel Magazine Editor, Simon Skinner said: “After more than a decade of presenting the UK Photographic Industry awards, we are hugely excited to be extending the format to further include the people that really matter. Counter staff are the lifeblood of our sector and the knowledge, passion and expertise is what makes the difference between selling product or not.”

Simon continued: “With the recent launch of PIXEL.CO.UK we have seen the perfect way to organise such a competition, making it simple to submit images for each category through the trade platform and setting hard-wired reminders into the users’ calendars. The platform represents a huge leap in communication and training for the imaging industry and, along with the valuable e-learning function, we are keen to make the experience as enjoyable and engaging as possible. The Pixel Photography Competition is just the start.”

Joining Simon on the panel of judges for 2016 will be photographer and filmmaker, Clive Booth, along with a representative from sponsors of each category. Clive Booth is widely known for his distinctive style of selective focus in natural, available, continuous and found light which gives his work an artistic, impressionistic, atmospheric, intimate and etherial quality. Clive’s recent commissions include ad campaigns, commercials and short films for George Michael, Asus, Intel, House of Amouage, H&M, Ernst & Young, Fiat, Shu Uemura and L’Oreal. His clients include Louis Vuitton, Silhouette Eyewear, MAC Cosmetics, The Mail on Sunday and You magazine.

Clive told Pixel: “I’m hugely excited to be a part of this special competition. As an imagemaker I am always asking myself the question: how can I better interpret the way I see and feel about the world around me and then communicate that to an audience? It

PIXEL COMPETITION sounds simple and yet it’s possibly one of the most challenging aspects of photography and film. What occupies the space between us and our subjects is of critical importance and it is this which becomes our paintbrush, pen and voice.”

All participants for the inaugural Pixel Photography Competition will need to submit their entries between the given dates via PIXEL. CO.UK So what are you waiting for? The first category ‘Landscape’ runs from the 13th June, so grab your camera, pack your tripod and get shooting!

3. Wildlife: Opening date 22nd August and submissions by 16th September 2016

1. Landscape: Opening date 13th June and submissions by 15th July 2016

4. Street photography: Opening date 19th September and submissions by 14th October 2016

2. Portraiture/Fashion: Opening date 18th July and submissions by 19th August 2016

5. Monochrome: Opening date 17th October and submissions by 18th November 2016

PJ Camera Trade Repairs The Midlands based photographic repair company, PJ Camera Repairs Ltd offers a comprehensive, reliable and professional repair service for the trade – improving your retail customer service whilst taking the work off your hands The Midlands based Photographic and Optical Repair Company, PJ CAMERA REPAIRS Ltd, covering the whole of mainland UK offers: • A comprehensive, reliable and professional repair service to the trade • Improvement to your profit margin, whilst improving customer service PJ Camera Repairs realises just how tough it is in the retail sector. Margins are constantly under pressure from the Internet and larger multiple retailers.

Day after day it becomes a bigger challenge.

However, it is clear that what these competitors cannot offer is an efficient and reliable Photo and Optical Repair back up service.

Tailored to you and your customers needs.

Both amateur and professional equipment is expertly undertaken at PJ. With over 20 years of experience it means PJ can tackle…

Digital Compact and DSLR, Film cameras, Medium Format, Lenses, Flash Guns, Binoculars

and Spotting scopes. Plus, Camcorders and Studio lighting are also undertaken.

Not forgetting a full Sensor Cleaning service for digital cameras.

Many different brands can be accommodated, just ask!

You will find that by adding a Repair and Service back up to the business that your profitability and customer flow will improve.

PJ can make this so simple.

• FREE van or courier pick up (ask for details)!

• FREE protective courier “Bluebox” available (ask for details)!

• FREE fast estimates…. and we mean FREE (no hidden charges)!

• VERY competitive pricing!

• EFFICIENT and fast turn around!

• FREE van or courier return…. whether the estimate is accepted or not!!

each individual repair at any point in the process.

To top it all and to support their expertise, PJ will cover a full service with a 12 MONTH WARRANTY…. not only on the job undertaken, but on the whole camera!!

Of course small and partial repairs are welcomed!

It’s never un-repairable until you ask!

This is a service that will be valued by you and your customers.

What are you waiting for? Contact PJ Camera Repairs on: 01782 711990 and quote DG/PJ. Visit our website www.pjcrdirect.co.uk

ALL THIS AND WITH NO FINANCIAL OUTLAY TO YOURSELVES!!

A technician will always be on hand to discuss

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POWER

We Have the Power!

With the Great British summertime at our doorstep and the masses booking holidays across the globe, Pixel takes a look at portable power solutions to keep camera gear alive and to keep the tills busy

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et a Grip Aside from carrying around a load of spare charged batteries, which perhaps isn’t such an awful idea, battery grips are a well-known source of extra power for DSLRs. They also have the additional advantage of providing extra control and comfortable handling when using the camera to shoot vertically – ideal for portraits and perhaps pictures on the beach. However, they’re chunky and specific to DSLRs, CSCs and generally, a higher-end option. So for those who aren’t shooting vertically or in possession of a DSLR they become rather redundant. Thankfully, there are alternatives.

Surprisingly, there are relatively few camera specific power solutions. Most are designed to work universally and as a result, charge devices via the ubiquitous USB or microUSB connections. These are great providing the camera in question has a USB

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panels deliver their power as direct current charging port on it; a feature that finally (DC), and the chances are that the charging appears to be becoming more prevalent after cradle supplied with your camera is alternating an apparent reluctance by camera companies, current (AC), so you’ll need to source a DC in particular with their DSLRs, to join the party. charging cradle for Embracing USB makes customers that want to sense to many, especially charge their batteries those that travel around using these sources. a lot as it means that “We believe there will be One player in this you won’t need a host of an increase in Powerbank arena, who has been different charging cables sales as people are looking prominent in the photo and adapters for keeping sector is Ansmann. A devices juiced up. for additional, mobile ways solid supplier of power of charging their cameras, solutions (and good AC/DC smartphones, tablets, iPads, profits) to the photo For products without etc, whilst on holiday or trade for many a year, a USB charging port indeed, on location” we caught up with and where the battery Peter Turnell, Product must be removed to - Peter Turnell: Ansmann UK Ltd Marketing Manager be recharged, for Ansmann UK charging Ltd, who told us his cradles are thoughts: “The holiday necessary season is certainly fast approaching and we to bridge the gap between believe travellers will be looking for high quality the power source and the charging and power solutions that they know camera battery. Before we get are safe and reliable whilst giving them the too ahead of ourselves, it’s worth flexibility that our products offer. Picking one noting that USB devices and solar

POWER case in point, the ANSMANN Powerline Vario comes complete with a multi-country USB Power Supply with interchangeable mains plugs (for the particular country visited), and USB to MicroUSB power lead. It also comes with an in-car adapter. It’s capable of charging AA or AAA rechargeable batteries, most camera or smartphone batteries and it offers a lightweight charging solution to keep a vast array of popular mobile devices running. Being powered from a standard USB power source it can also take its power from a laptop or PC.” Stick It In The Bank A popular solution with many, and perhaps the most compact, is the power bank. Most power banks, of which there are many, are simple battery packs that appear much like external hard drives, with the capacity to provide multiple recharges. They tend to be designed as a general charging solution for smartphones, tablets and other such electronic devices, charging via USB connections. Capacities, charging speeds, weights and physical sizes vary depending on price and desired levels of portability (carrying in your pocket vs in a bag). Some offer impressive capacities and can charge camera batteries a good number of times. Predicting the growth of powerbanks, Peter Turnell continued: “We believe there will be an increase in powerbank sales as people are looking for additional, mobile ways of charging their cameras, smartphones, tablets, iPads, etc whilst on holiday or indeed, on location. ANSMANN Powerbanks offer a safe and reliable solution, coming in three sizes to suit the photography market; 2.6Ah, 5.2Ah and their flagship 10.4Ah. Peter Mott, Sales Manager at Intro 2020 said: “The summer is indeed a time when people start to plan their summer holidays, so we will experience a peak in sales of universal travel chargers, travel adapters, spare batteries for cameras and action cameras, along with an increase of sales of portable USB powerbanks which are handy for powering mobile devices whilst access to a mains plug is non-existent.

With a powerbank you will still be able to share your personal experience on Facebook and twitter over the period of the festival whist still topping up the charge on your mobile device.

Using a Digipower 13000mh power bank, users can expect to charge their IPhone 6 up to 7 times, for example.

Solar Power Solar power is obviously great for those that find themselves out and about and likely to be away from mains power for a while (camping

trips/festivals etc). Unlike normal powerbanks that will need recharging from the mains or from a PC once exhausted, powerbanks with a built in solar panel (such as the Freeloader products) have the additional boon of being able to recharge themselves by harnessing the power of The Sun. In theory this means that buyers need never charge their devices via mains power. This is unlikely though as the powerbank’s battery takes much longer to replenish via the solar panel as opposed to using the mains; not to mention the lack of strong sunlight in the UK. An alternative is to look at portable solar panels such as the Goal Zero Nomad or Xtorm SolarBooster. These larger, yet still conveniently compact solar panels will be able to make more of The Sun’s energy than that found on the Freeloader Isis, for example.

These solar panels are just that though: they generate electricity from The Sun but do not hold a charge. This isn’t a real problem though, as they can be plugged directly into a USB camera charge port or charging cradle.

They can of course also be used to replenish powerbanks too so it is possible to store the electricity that they generate.

Portable Power Packs for Lighting Your customers may well find themselves on a location shoot, which necessitates the use of additional gear such as strobe or constant lighting but where mains power is still scarce. For just this eventuality, Bowens have developed a neat solution. Their range

of Gemini flash lights can be powered via a rechargeable battery pack. There are a couple of different capacities depending on the number of lights or duration of shoot etc, and because strobes are so power intensive these battery packs are not as portable as those for cameras (of course). They vary, with some about the size of a car battery (but thankfully not as heavy).

Some others in this field come in the form of Interfit Strobies Proflash and Quantum Turbo 3 battery packs. While they won’t provide the same capacity and duration levels as the Bowens packs, they can at least be worn about your person. When used with a flash gun however, they make for a much more portable set up and give the user the ability to shoot for longer sessions, and in the case of the Quantum, they can be used to provide back up power for a camera too.

Mobile power solutions have always been a factor in our industry but with the progression of battery technologies, all manner of users, from the iPhone-ographer, the holiday maker to the wedding photographer, there are a greater number of options available than ever before.

Peter Mott rounded off: “The summer does provide an opportunity to range a larger selection of products to cater for the busy summer period. Often consumers are time poor and are looking for a solution to match their immediate requirements. The distress purchase does become more apparent at this time of year, it is an opportunity to increase your sales on these lines.”

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Olympus Get Tough With Video Marking ten years of Olympus Tough cameras, the brand have announced their latest addition to the action range: the TG-Tracker

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he immediate points of difference with the TG-Tracker, are that it incorporates comprehensive new tracking and field logging capabilities, leading to a higher quality, more immersive way of re-living and sharing action moments, such as sky diving, scuba diving, kite surfing or white-water rafting.

Its promise is that, contrary to what has previously been a given in action cameras, the TG-Tracker maintains high image quality, shot selection and a long-lasting battery life.

The camera is made to withstand the harshest environments too: it’s shockproof to a height of 2.1 metres, crushproof to a weight of 100kg, dustproof, freezeproof down to -10°C and waterproof down to 30 metres below sea level.

Also incorporating a detachable grip, an ultrawide angle lens that captures a 204° field of view, 5-axis image stabilisation and a flip-out colour

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LCD monitor, the camera offers flexibility and ease of use even when doing extreme sports. In addition the TG-Tracker records 4K video with ease, powered by the same TruePic VII image processor found in several high-end Olympus interchangeable-lens cameras.

What makes it stand out from the rest on the market is its five sensors, which allows the camera to sense acceleration, altitude or depth and temperature as well as direction an up to 60 lumen spotlight for shooting when of movement – in addition to latitude and it would otherwise be too dark. longitude.

When reviewing footage, Using the free App, transferring stills and video Olympus Image Track to the phone via Wi-Fi is Ver 2.0, it’s possible simple. OI.Track offers the “it’s shockproof to a height to review outdoor option to browse images of 2.1 metres, crushproof adventures incorporating and related log data all this information together, in split-screen to a weight of 100kg, bringing the physical mode. The log for each dustproof, freezeproof challenge to life. For clip or still can be viewed example, when reviewing down to -10°C* and from two perspectives: as footage on smartphones, a birds-eye map or as a waterproof down to 30 scuba divers can see at chart plotting depth/altitude metres below sea level” a glance at what depth, against time. By comparing water temperature and past logs stored in the distance from the entry App, it’s easy to calculate point they encountered distance covered, speed a spectacular fish and other variables – great for serious thrillor species of coral. The camera even logs seekers who wish to take their sport to the next changes in G force – like a parachute opening level. or the take-off and landing that bookend a The new TG-Tracker is compatible with many snowboarder’s 360 – then tags the chapter harnesses and mounts for all sorts of outdoor for easy retrieval. For diving purposes, when and sports equipment (adapter supplied). underwater, the camera automatically adjusts white balance and other settings, and there is Available from July 2016 for £279.99

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WWW.FUJIFILM.EU/UK OFFER AVAILABLE BETWEEN 1 JUNE AND 31 AUGUST 2016. FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND A LIST OF QUALIFYING PRODUCTS VISIT WWW.FUJIFILM.EU/UK *THE CASHBACK AMOUNT IS ONLY DOUBLED ON ONE LENS WHEN YOU PURCHASE AN ADDITIONAL LENS WITH THE X-PRO2, X-T1 OR X-E2S

www.pixel.co.uk 11

DEALER EVENTS

Wilkinson Cameras’ Digital Splash

Wilkinson Cameras’ Digital Splash

Wilkinson Cameras’ Digital Splash

Wilkinson Cameras’ Digital Splash

Wilkinson Cameras’ Digital Splash

Making a Splash!

From its early beginnings as a relatively small regional dealer showroom event, Wilkinson Cameras’ Digital Splash has now grown to form what will, in 2016, be a significant national imaging event for the UK

T

he team at Wilkinson Cameras have announced details of their 2016 Digital Splash and have promised that, this year, it will be bigger and better than ever. Taking place on 15th & 16th October 2016, Digital Splash has moved from its traditional location in Preston and will now take place at the waterfront Echo Arena in the historic docks in Liverpool.

Having kicked off in the Best Western hotel in Leyland, just outside of Preston in 2009, the event was organised as a test bed for Wilkinson Cameras, who were looking at ways in which to better engage with their customers. MD David Parkinson told us: “The show spent two years at the Best Western and we launched at a time when the country was in deep recession. Seven years ago, we had no idea if it would be a success or not but we were well and truly bowled over. That’s when we decided to grow the event.”

Since then, Digital Splash has steadily grown, changing location as it did, to the University of Central Lancashire, Preston where it spent a further two years before outgrowing the facility once more. The event then moved to another (larger) space at the University, where it has taken place right through to the 2016 announcements. The move this year now means that Digital Splash has grown to a scale where it is now the biggest photography exhibition in the North of England.

The show has also grown in opening hours too and will now span a whole weekend, offering talks and workshops with an impressive

12 www.pixel.co.uk

selection of top pro photographers (see list below) plus live shoots, demonstrations, photowalks, inspiring exhibitions and a great deal more.

David continued: “For us, the event has become a very important part of our business mix. Getting equipment into customers’ hands really has become a primary focus for us. The days of everyone wanting the next compact digital camera are long gone and now we have to work hard for our business and the show gives us the opportunity to get close to our customers. We can get close to them, engage them with our programme of events and keep them on a learning pathway with expert advice and inspiration through the weekend. What we gain ultimately, as a business, is customer awareness, data collection, and the opportunity to get close to our customers means that we are more likely to retain their business. We want to gain all of the resources from the event to improve and grow each year.”

Exhibitors confirmed for the event this year include the likes of Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, Olympus, Fujifilm, Pentax & Ricoh, Sony, Sigma, Tamron, Lowepro, Manfrotto and many, many more. The list of seminars will be given by an impressive list of professional image makers including, Jonathan Chritchley, Michael Freeman, Steve Bloom, Ann & Steve Toon, Tim Wallace, Kate Hopewell-Smith, Ross Grieve and Trevor & Faye Yerbury, with many more being announced over the coming weeks and months.

It’s also hoped that an additional draw

for the event will be its new location. With purpose built facilities, excellent travel links and waterfront vistas; perfect for shooting and testing the all-important camera gear, Liverpool’s Echo Arena promises to have something for everyone.

Digital Splash will take place on the weekend of 15th & 16th October 2016, with doors open from 10am to 5pm each day.

DEALER EVENTS As proven by the team at Wilkinson Cameras, organising events is a smart business move.

Pixel takes a look at what else is going on and asks the question: “if you’re not working on your own event… why not?”

You could argue that there’s nothing new about organising and hosting retailer events.

They offer exceptional opportunities to attract both existing and potential customers in store, both pre, during and post-event through marketing offers and general comms via the data captured. Not only that but there is a real appetite from manufacturers to engage with photo enthusiasts on a regional level, offering support and manpower to bolster store’s sales staff and to work with dealers with space to play host. More importantly, to work with them on deals – helping them to sell.

Bundle deals, end of life stock, cash backs and the next big thing, are all ways to attract visitors to these events and it seems that it’s a real growth area in the industry right now.

There appears to have been a small explosion of dealer events making up the calendar in recent years, with some offering specific focus on certain segments within the imaging arena, and others giving an all-round offering for visitors. All have one thing in common though; they are all built to (ultimately), drive sales.

Regular customers in a specialist market are hugely important for business; we all know that. They come in store, time and again and will largely keep the wolf from the door during leaner months. They already know your staff, probably know what products are new or on their way to market and possess a skill level that’s slightly more advanced than most. Surely though, the opportunity to meet new customers has to be the main driver for building in-house events? Encouraging curious, inquisitive new people through the door has to be the primary focus. Gaining the trust, offering expert knowledge and building loyalty through quality of service are all elements that form the cornerstones of good retailing but there is a need to encourage a regular flow of people

The Wex London Lens Show - Katie Dix, Wex Photographic ©

through the door to start on their photographic journey with you.

In fact, alongside specific ‘calendar’ events, you only need to take a look at how photo training has grown via retail to see that there is not only a thirst for knowledge but a sound business model formed from engaging with those with an interest in developing their skill level. No matter what that skill level may be.

One new event that emerged this year was the The Wex London Lens Show. Organised

by Wex Photographic, this took place in a three storey venue in central London, this (30th) April; The Ugly Duck in Tanner St, South London. Historically a tannery, the venue near Tower Bridge has played host to various BBC productions including the Great British Sewing Bee and previous series of Dragon’s Den. We spoke with Matt Devine, Social Marketing Manager for Wex Photographic about the launch of the London event and he said: “We regularly carry out successful events such as workshops, seminars, photo walks and general shows in and around Norfolk, where our showroom is based; but this is the first time we’ve held a major show in London.”

Matt continued: “We could see a gap in the market with a lens specific event and we were also keen to give our London-based customers an opportunity to come and meet the team from Wex Photographic. As it turned out, we

The Wex London Lens Show - Katie Dix, Wex Photographic ©

managed to welcome over 1000 people on the day.”

On the content of the event, Matt said: “We were bowled over with the response from manufacturers. Everyone that we approached could see the benefit of such a niche event and joined us and we had a number of people calling us to get involved too. This ultimately included gear, demos and advice from leading brands such as Atomos, Canon, DJI, Fuji, Lee Filters, Lensbaby, Manfrotto, Miller, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Samyang, Schneider, Shape, Sigma, Sony, Tamron, Tiffen, Tokina and Zeiss. On the day we had a pro video element, photo walks, macro workshop and plenty of manufacturer support.

We had a feeling that it would be successful but not to the extent that it was and we will definitely make this a regular annual event. It’s possible that we may switch venues but will stay as a London show.”

Everyone likes a superstar and, fortunately for us (as an industry), there are many prolific photographers and filmmakers out there who would be regarded as rock stars by their enthusiast peers.

Take a look at how quickly the show floor cleared at The Photography Show in Birmingham this year when David Bailey turned up on the Super Stage and you’ll know what a draw these people can be.

Talking about the classes and seminars that took place at The London Lens Show this year, Matt told Pixel: “We arranged a range of interactive events through the day, including photo walks with Damien Demoulder, Rob Pugh and Jeremy Walker, along with creative fashion workshops, 4K demos with Panasonic and sensor cleaning from Fixation. All great draws and hugely engaging with our visitors.”

This all points to one conclusion; there are a multitude of reasons (and ways) to host events as a retailer, regardless of the market you’re in. Pop up shops, specialist one-off events, right down to photo-talks and even sponsoring other people’s events that attract the right visitor demographic, are all ways in which to promote photography, products and ultimately, business. Let’s be honest, the more ways we have to promote that, the better for us all.

www.pixel.co.uk 13

BEHIND THE COUNTER

Behind The Counter

Pixel’s Behind The Counter section shines the spotlight on counter-staff to delve into the daily life of photo retail

Jamie Dye, Showroom Manager at Calumet Photographic Drummond Street, Euston, London

Laurence Fenton, Store Manager at Calumet Photographic Wardour Street, Soho, London

Ross Double, Sales Associate at Calumet Photographic Drummond Street, Euston, London

Angus Bicker, Store Manager at Calumet Photographic Belfast

James Carpintero, Sales Associate at Calumet Photographic Drummond Street, Euston, London

Behind the Counter turns the spotlight on counter staff in photographic shops across the country with a mix of silly and (slightly more) pertinent questions. Here, counter staff at Calumet have kindly provided the answers you’ve been dying to know. If you own/run/work in a camera shop and you’d like to get involved, please email jenny@pixel.co.uk

What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s happened in store for you?

Laurence: Spending ages explaining the pros and cons of a camera, only to realise I had been talking about the wrong camera the whole time – I just had to play it cool.

Ross: Ripping my trousers during my first week.

If you could have any camera equipment you wanted for free, what would it be?

Ross: Nikon D5 and a bag full of Nikon Glass.

Laurence: Phase One XF IQ1.

James: Phase One Medium Format.

Jamie: Mamiya 7 II. Angus: Nikon D5, Canon 1DX MKII, Fuji X Pro 2 or a Profoto B1 location kit, any one would be gladly accepted.

How have you seen the photography retail trade change over the last decade?

Angus: It has changed drastically from the market I would have dealt with when I joined Calumet. Back then it was mainly the professional as our customer, whereas today we are dealing more with semi-pro photographers and hobbyists, though the one thing that hasn’t changed is that good customer service will win customers.

14 www.pixel.co.uk

What new camera or camera equipment releases have excited you in the past year?

Jamie: Definitely – and in five years (maybe less) EVF will be as good as optical VF, meaning no more mirrors.

Laurence: The DJI Osmo was really exciting; Sony, in general, have really interested me with their mirrorless and compact systems; and how could I forget Blackmagic’s Ursa mini and pocket cinema cameras.

Angus: We certainly have a lot of interest in the Fuji and Sony ranges, and they are popular for their size but a DSLR still has its place.

Angus: There have been many exciting releases in the past few months; the Nikon D500 I think will sell in quantity, the Fuji X Pro2 is a fabulous evolution of the best of the X range and is such a great user experience.

Jamie: Lyrtro continues to bring exciting kit to the table and others adopting the same idea will bring on the new wave. The DxO One camera is also a great piece of kit.

Do you think the ‘digital revolution’ is to blame for many independent retailers going out of business more recently?

Laurence: Yes, and no; digital holds most of the market now and if you are not in the right area to sell analogue, you won’t succeed.

Soho, for example, is an area where I see a huge market for film.

How do you make buying and selling equipment easier for enthusiasts?

James: Keep the camera jargon language to a minimum and explain everything in a universal manner.

Is the market going more towards mirrorless technology?

How do you make buying and selling equipment easier for enthusiasts?

Laurence: It’s all about pricing and being efficient; enthusiasts aren’t at the point where they can buy the very best equipment, and manufacturers know that, so working closely with the manufactures helps a lot, knowing how you talk about their products to different people. Being efficient is always helpful as nobody wants to be told about a camera they can’t afford or that won’t do exactly what they want; they want simplicity and great images for their money.

Angus: As a company we have many options for the enthusiast to upgrade or afford better equipment, but the most important thing is to deal with them at a level that they are comfortable with and respect what they are doing. Calumet deals with many household names in the photography world and this can be intimidating for some enthusiasts. For enthusiasts it is also great for them to get their hands on the camera equipment rather than just reading specification online, our stores have lots of demo equipment and our open days also give people the chance to try the latest gear.

www.pixel.co.uk 15

CRUMPLER & SIRUI

Crumpler and Sirui Announce Joint Distribution

After a number of switches when it comes to responsibility for the relatively new tripod brand, Sirui in the UK market, Pixel learns about a new agreement which will bring distributor, Marchwood into the frame for supply

I

t’s always an interesting time when a new brand emerges in the UK market. Some come to stay, with others culminating as more of a flash-in-the-pan. The reasons for this are many, but one significant factor has to be the people representing the brand in our territory.

Relationships between Product Managers, Sales Representatives and Buyers make a significant difference in the success of a product in any sector but it could be argued that in the photo arena, these relationships are more important than anywhere else. The ability to bring new brands and products to a dealer’s attention (and be let through the door), are essential ingredients for the health and progression of business. Sure, there are exceptions, where consumer demand has stores clambering to get hands on products to be sure not to ‘miss the boat’, but in general, and to be able sell a product, we need to be convinced that a product will be popular, desirable or will serve a purpose, perhaps improving a predecessor.

16 www.pixel.co.uk

Crumpler brand across the whole of Europe.

Given the natural crossover in both Crumpler and SIRUI’s philosophies, (Crumpler bags offer a 30 year guarantee, whilst Sirui offer six years on tripods) NoBrainer GmbH will combine their strengths Full with Sirui Germany effective marks then immediately to handle for the early distribution of products throughout Germany, ambassadors the United Kingdom and other European of the Sirui countries. brand, entering the What this ultimately means for Sirui in the UK market as it did on UK, as it does already for Crumpler, is that 1st September 2014. At this time, the the long-established distributor Marchwood man leading the brand was Vic Solomon. An will become the point of contact for supply industry veteran, having worked for many years as they continue the good work. as a product manager for Pixel spoke with Manfrotto, he was well Charlotte Newcombe positioned to bring a new Lancashire from “Marchwood is very brand to the attention of Marchwood the UK dealer channel. upon hearing the pleased to announce that Between that day and this, news, she said: through our Partners at it’s clear that Vic had made “Marchwood is very a decent fist of it, getting pleased to announce Crumpler/NoBrainer we Sirui products into a great that through our will be representing Sirui in deal of stores and even partners at Crumpler/ the UK” gaining a lot of attention by NoBrainer we will be clambering to the top of a representing Sirui - Charlotte Newcombe Lancashire tall, fully extended tripod in the UK. Sirui is a from Marchwood to prove its strength at an multi award winning exhibition. For those who brand with many know Vic, he is not a small unique products in its man and this stunt was range. Feedback we indeed an impressive stunt. have had from existing stockists has been After Vic’s watch, (latest reports suggest great; they all love the product, so we look that Vic has sadly moved on from the photo forward to supporting them and expanding trade) a former colleague (of Vic’s) and serial our dealer network as we progress. We have brand representative, Andy Bennett stepped had great success with Crumpler in the time in for a brief period, to look after the brand, we’ve been working with the brand, and right through to the news of their latest switch, we love working with them. Adding another announcing a partnership with the German great brand to our portfolio makes us feel company, NoBrainer, who also look after the very privileged.”

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• 16-megapixel X-Trans CMOS II sensor • Compact rangefinder-style design • Full Auto mode for high-quality point-and-shoot simplicity

*PLEASE CHECK WITH THE RETAILER FOR ALL TRADE-IN MODELS THAT QUALIFY FOR THIS PROMOTION. www.pixel.co.uk 17 TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. ASK IN STORE FOR MORE DETAILS. FUJIFILM MODELS MAY CHANGE AT A LATER DATE.

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 As an option, the ideal solution for events without dedicated laptop.

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18 www.pixel.co.uk

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in print

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PIXEL JOIN THE TEAM FROM IMPOSSIBLE FOR THE UK LAUNCH OF THEIR NEW INSTANT CAMERA: THE I-1

On May 11th in the swanky surroundings of London’s Shoreditch Studios, selected members of the photo industry were invited to mingle with fashionistas, models, style bloggers and a host of lifestyle journos to celebrate the launch of the Impossible I-1.

Continued on page 20...

STRIP FOR ADVERTISERS mitsubishielectric-printing.com

www.pixel.co.uk 19

ROUNDTABLE COVER FEATURE: OF CEWE THE IMPOSSIBLE I-1 IMPOSSIBLE LAUNCH PIXEL’S PICTURE GALLERY FROM THE UK LAUNCH OF THE NEW INSTANT CAMERA FROM IMPOSSIBLE

20 www.pixel.co.uk

in print

INSTANT: HERE: NOW of Impossible products in the UK, Swains International PLC, told us: “The Impossible I-1 launch was a huge success. It was very interesting to see the mix of people from photo, fashion & art in one place all interested in instant photography. The camera was the highlight and everyone who attended got to see it in all its glory and go home with a portrait as a memento of the night. It was also great to see all the social media coverage the camera and event received the next day. All in all a very successful event and an exciting time for Impossible and Swains.”

The camera from Impossible promises to reinvent instant photography for the digital age, with a variety of new and unique features never before seen on an instant camera. From what we could see, The I-1 is certainly well positioned for a certain, stylish consumer demographic and is a product that is likely to transcend its immediate market and will appeal to a fashion and gadget hungry CONTINUED... customer The camera, which appeared on that will want to be seen the front cover of our May edition and with it. It also ticks the boxes for people was recently announced at Bloomberg discovering analogue/instant photography for Businessweek Design 2016, had been used the first time as its functionality, and connectivity by some of the world’s most respected with mobile devices & apps, makes it both photographers, designers and artists to create familiar and new at the same time. instant photo works that were exclusively We spoke with Pierre Darnton, Managing unveiled during the event. Work by Jack White, Director UK and Ireland for Impossible after Anthony Vaccarello, the event: “We are Ellen von Unwerth, extremely happy with Matt Irwin, Tim Barber, the response we’ve had Jake Chessum, from the launch party “The I-1 is certainly well Joey L, Maripol and with over 300 people positioned for a certain, stylish Emily Soto was on attending. We had set consumer demographic and display throughout the out to showcase the I-1 is a product that is likely to evening, on the walls in a different way from of the East London the average product transcend its immediate market venue. Plenty of drinks launch, which I felt we and will appeal to a fashion and were consumed in achieved. Blowing up gadget hungry customer that will celebration of the the photographs into want to be seen with it” long awaited camera, art work was very well the first new camera received and the photo system in over 20 studio was great. The years for the original blown up photographs Polaroid® format. are now on display in Paris via a short stop in The evening included a DJ set from Faris New York at the MoMA. It was nice to see a Badwan (The Horrors/Cat’s Eyes) and we were varied mix of established photography retailers invited to find out how the I-1 was designed attend as well as the press, fashion, technology with the intention of making great portrait shots bloggers and artists. It has given us the feeling in mind. that people want to see more so we are Stuart Boston, Sales Director from distributor planning events all through the year.”

New Chemistry, New Packaging, New Film Just as quickly as we heard about the Impossible I-1 coming to light, Impossible shared details of their new colour film, which now develops in half the time.

To celebrate this great leap forward they’ve also introduced a completely new packaging system for all their films.

The new colour-coded system lets the consumer quickly and easily find exactly the film they need.

All Impossible colour films for Polaroid and Impossible cameras now develop fully in just 20-30 minutes (down from 40+ minutes). Images begin to emerge within 2 minutes (down from 4+ minutes), and the user gets a more accurate preview of the image as it develops, with less of a blue tone.

Perhaps the greatest news here for any sceptics though, is that Impossible have also introduced a completely new type of instant film - Impossible I-type film, which has been optimized for use with the I-1.

Impossible I-type film comes in both colour and black and white, and features their latest chemistries. Importantly, what makes I-type film so special is that the film packs don’t contain batteries, (which the I-1 doesn’t need). That means I-type film is less expensive and produces less waste.

Pricing & Availability: Colour I-Type film: £14.99, B&W I-Type film: £14.99.

Available now.

www.pixel.co.uk 21

FROSTS PHOTO CENTRE DRIVE FUJIFILM PARTNERSHIP (AND PROFITS) WITH STORE REFIT WENDY GRAY, OWNER OF FROSTS PHOTO CENTRE AND PROVIDER OF RETAIL SUPPORT FOR FUJIFILM DIGITAL IMAGING CENTRES COUNTRYWIDE, LEADS FROM THE FRONT WITH A BRAND-NEW LOOK FOR THE STORE. HERE, IN:PRINT’S SIMON SKINNER CATCHES UP WITH WENDY TO FIND OUT MORE

S

imon Skinner: Hi Wendy, it’s great to see the store looking so good, can you tell us what led to the refurb?

Wendy Gray: Hi! Well, I knew that I really needed to re-fit the store after taking over 3 years ago. It’s been a great driver for business, having the Fujifilm branding on the fascia, but I felt that it could be improved upon and with the

new (50 years in Europe) branding and lots of new print innovation in general, it was time to freshen up in order to attract new customers through the door. Fujifilm have been showing their new ‘Photo Wonder’ store concept at shows, such as Photokina and at this year’s Photography Show in Birmingham and we were looking closely at the physical Photo Wonder store in Barcelona but we just found it too full-on.

As many of your readers will know, and especially a good number of FDIS franchisees with which I’ve worked over the last few years in retail support, I’m a big champion of the Fujifilm brand. That said, I didn’t really want ‘Digital Imaging Store’ on the fascia and I wanted to find a balance, using the elements that we think work for us, and leaving others out.

SS: So which were the stronger elements in your opinion?

WG: The elements that we wanted to push at Frosts were the colour scheme from the new branding and heavy use of Mr. Appy. We wanted to make a complete look and feel, so now the colour scheme runs through the whole store and Mr. Appy is on all of the POS, signage and pretty well everywhere else too.

SS: So Mr. Appy features highly. Is that in recognition of existing clientele or are you trying to encourage more people to discover the benefits of the mobile app?

WG: Both really. We’re always looking at ways to capture clients through promotions and to attract mobile users and we’ve found that 70% of our customers are now coming in with smart devices and not media cards.

22 www.pixel.co.uk

To install Fujifilm Imagine for your own business or for further info

FUJIFILM

SS: Hold on, Smartphones and tablets instead of media cards?

WG: Yes, a surprising amount of people are coming in with phones and tablets and wanting to use them to print from. Lots of them probably don’t know what a media card is but they still want to print their photos.

SS: So what other things have you put in place to facilitate this demand?

WG: We’ve had Airdrop put in, to function with our new kiosks and it’s been hugely beneficial.

It allows for high volumes to be processed quickly from mobiles directly to kiosks.

WG: Definitely. We are very aware that there are 100s of pictures on people’s devices, real weekend once per year. Along with the break, potential for volume sales and at worst, up there’s an amount of team building through the selling to existing customers. We have a set weekend and we talk at length about how to of sales standards and procedures to follow focus on the next 12 months, what we can do at Frosts. All with sales to improve the business, targets attached and how to work better with with the ultimate goal our customers and each “We’ve found that 70% of encouraging greater other. volume of printing. 4-5 of our customers are now years ago, I introduced a SS: Getting back to the coming in with smart sales formula, which was refit, tell us a little more devices and not media hated at first, but now it about the changes cards. Lots of them has been adopted and it you’ve made. definitely works. probably don’t know what We’ve put 5 new a media card is but they still WG: SS: So how far do you kiosks in and they’re want to print their photos” go with integrating the 10s, which is one your team with kiosk less than we had sales objectives and previously but they are so incentives? much faster; we haven’t lost any volume in output.

WG: Everyone here is an important part of the We’ve also installed a DX100 printer for instant team and I make everyone aware of general printing. It’s great. business strategy, daily figures sales targets etc, so that we can all work together to achieve SS: And what about the general reaction them. There’s a real sense of democracy and from your customers? that breeds support from each other too. That extends to me taking everyone away for a WG: General reaction has been incredible.

Fujifilm and Frosts Photo Centre team, with Wendy Gray (centre)

SS: Essential then, if that kind of percentage of clients are looking to use mobile devices?

Greater numbers of people are coming through the door. We’re seeing a bigger spend per customer and, in fact, we haven’t had a single negative comment! Our intention was to grow footfall and it has definitely worked. We’ve opened up the window, which has allowed people to see in much more easily, encouraging them in. We’ve taken a leaf from some of the most successful retailers, like Apple, who have very clear window space and clean, simple navigation through the shop. These are all appealing elements for a customer. Having the Fujifilm partner branding above the door really helps too.

SS: Thanks Wendy, let’s catch up again soon.

www.pixel.co.uk 23

please contact Peter via pwigington@fuji.co.uk or call 01234 572138

BOOK OF THE MONTH

BOOK OF THE MONTH Walker Evans: Depth of Field Wall Street Windows, 1929 Gelatin silver print Private Collection © Walker Evans Archive, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Ice Cream Store Sign, New Jersey, 1973-­‐75 Pigment print Yale University Art Gallery © Walker Evans Archive, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

T

his book from one of Pixel’s favourite publishers, Prestel, represents the most comprehensive study of Walker Evans’ work ever published, containing masterful images accompanied by authoritative commentary from leading photography historians.

The name Walker Evans conjures images of the American everyman. Whether it’s his iconic contributions to James Agee’s depressionera classic book, ‘Let Us Now Praise Famous Men’, his architectural explorations of antebellum plantations, or his subway series, taken with a camera hidden in his coat,

24 www.pixel.co.uk

Evans’ accessible and eloquent photographs have a voice to us all. Not least us here at Life Media Group, having been inspired by his phrase, naming passionate image makers as, ‘Those with a hungry eye’, for the mast of our specialist film & Photo Journal.

This comprehensive book traces the entire arc of Evans’ remarkable career, from the 1930s to the 1970s. The illustrations in the book range from his earliest images taken with a vest pocket camera, to his final photos using the then new SX-70 (because his regular equipment became too heavy to carry around).

Within the pages, you will find commentary from three of Evans’ longtime friends,

photographers Alan Trachtenberg, Jerry Thompson and John T. Hill. Their insight and first-hand experience give depth to their critical writings on Evans’ work. In addition to offering a broad perspective on Evans’ work, the book also clarifies the photographer’s ‘anti-art’ philosophy.

Evans always maintained that he wanted his pictures to resonate with a wide audience and at the same time, his natural curiosity made him one of the most inventive photographers of all time. What these photographs and writings attest to is a huge and timeless talent, which came not from a camera, but from Evans’ uniquely hungry eye. $ 85.00 | £ 55.00 Hardcover with jacket ISBN: 978-3-79138223-4

in print

www.pixel.co.uk 25

NEWS BITES BITES NEWS

NEWS BITES

FIND OUT MORE INFO ON THIS MONTH’S NEWS BITES AT PIXEL.CO.UK

New Additions To The Kenro Wood Frames Range Kenro have announced two new frame series, for spring / summer 2016.

The Torino Series frames have a distressed, vintage finish that chimes perfectly with the popular shabby chic style. With a generous moulded profile of 52x30mm, shaped to match its antique feel, this neutral wooden frame adds warmth and

freestanding easel back.

The Rocco Series of wooden frames comes in three beautiful colours and a choice of four sizes. This classic and versatile frame has a textured wood grain finish, with a deep, cushioned profile of

character to any environment.

Torino Series frames come in two sizes, each with a removable picture mat so that the frame can be used at the size of the mat, or at full size. Supplied with

35x15mm and a removable mat that allows them to be used full-frame or with the mats for the listed picture sizes. Supplied with freestanding easel back.

For further details, please visit www.kenro.co.uk.

Trade customers, please contact Kenro’s head office directly on 01793 615836.

Fujifilm Wallpaper Raises the Roof…

Photographer Nick Turley recently turned to Fujifilm’s Wallpaper Media, and Leeds based lab CC Imaging, to help him fulfill a brief to provide imagery for the ceiling of a new restaurant opening.

The spaces to fill on the ceiling came in a range of different sizes and Nick needed to find a pro lab that could understand the unusual nature of the job. “I chose to work with CC Imaging in Leeds because it was a lab I knew well and I was aware of their

reputation for high quality printing and attention to detail. They advised that Fujifilm Wallpaper would be the perfect media to use.”

Mark Senior of CC Imaging, said: “The images were created in Fujifilm ImageHunter software and printed on an Epson Stylus Pro 11880 64-inch inkjet printer.

The ink went down really well, with no smudging or banding, and, importantly, the colours from roll to roll also matched perfectly.

The media also quite lightweight despite coming in rolls that were 42 inches wide.”

For more information contact Mark Wade at mwade@fuji. co.uk or call 07747 017216

Lomography Release Lomo’Instant Honolulu and San Sebastián Edition Packages Lomography have released two new editions of their Lomo’Instant Camera.

Aimed at being the most creative instant camera ever, the Lomo’Instant package includes unlimited multiple exposures, four colour flash gels, B setting for infinite long exposures, and three additional lens attachments.

CREDITS & CONTACTS

in print

RETAIL SOLUTIONS FOR THE PRINT PROFESSIONAL

The Lomo’Instant has an auto flash shooting mode so you can easily shoot fantastic instant photos with flash in the touch of a button. You can also switch to the two manual shooting modes to open up all kinds of experimental shooting possibilities.

The camera has a built-in wideangle lens and is compatible with multiple lens attachments that can

be screwed onto the Lomo’Instant for tons of creative and experimental photography options.

With its maximum aperture of f/8, the Lomo’Instant Camera has the largest aperture setting currently in the instant photography world.

Pricing & Availability: £129 each, available now For more information visit:

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

Features Editor: Thomas Allen 01323 819007 tom@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Sales: Geoff Diamond 01323 819007 geoff@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Group Director/Editor: Simon Skinner 01323 819017 simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Features Editor: James Marchant 01323 819007 james@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Production Manager: Harriet Weston 01323 819010 harriet@lifemediagroup.co.uk

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

Title Manager: Elliott Mansfield 01323 819012 elliott@lifemediagroup.co.uk

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

Deputy Editor: Jenny Ardagh 01323 819011 jenny@pixel.co.uk

Sales: Lou Dobson 01323 819007 lou@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Accounts: Amelia Wellings 01323 819016 amelia@lifemediagroup.co.uk

26 www.pixel.co.uk

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

http://shop.lomography.com/ en/lomo-instant-honolulu

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 2016©

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