Pixel Magazine - Issue 969 2016

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ISSUE NO. 969

TRADE

AWARDS

2014

www.pixel.co.uk

INSIDE

November 2016

PIXEL TRADE AWARDS 2016, BEHIND THE COUNTER, MAKING A SPLASH! PIXEL RECOMMENDS STOCKING FILLERS, FOCUS: BAGS, VERITEK’S NEW HQ, FUJIFILM’S WONDER PHOTO TOUR AND MUCH MORE...

The Trade Awards are Back!

In This Issue...

• Now is the time to gather together the best gifts and gadgets. Pixel recommends its favourite stocking fillers. P14.

• Pixel delves into the bag and hardware protection sector in our focus for November. P16.

• A ‘resurgence in print’ encouraged by FUJIFILM as their 2016 Wonder Photo Tour draws to a close. P19.

The Photo Industry says Goodbye to ‘NewsHound’ Chris Cheesman

It is with incredible sadness that the team at Pixel is to report the sudden and unexpected passing of Amateur Photographer magazine’s Chief News Journalist, Chris Cheesman.

Details were vague in the days following Chris’ passing but we are to understand that Chris had returned from Photokina feeling unwell. Subsequent tests revealed that he had contracted a rare infection, which saw him being admitted to hospital.

Read more on P8.

PHOTO -

IMAGING -

TRADE

2016

By the time this edition of Pixel lands on your counter, staff room or inbox, the team will be tying up final details for the prestigious 2016 Pixel Trade Awards. Back for the 12th year running, the event promises to deliver an evening that’s second to none

For the 12th year, the Pixel Trade Awards are back and will be returning to the Grange City Hotel in London’s east end. Taking place on Friday 2nd of December, the VIDEO

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rewarding those who provide a professional, efficient and faultless service in their sector of the industry.

Trade Awards are once more on hand to recognise and celebrate the achievements of the photographic industry, including retail, supply, manufacture and innovation, -

MOBILE

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STATS

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PEOPLE

Find out more on page 6.

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RETAIL

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BUSINESS

FOR 49 YEARS AND COUNTING

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NEWS

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WELCOME To Pixel Magazine The dust has settled after the flurry of recent trade events and we’ve been busy taking stock of the new products that have landed. One thing that is becoming increasingly apparent is the imminent arrival of the illustrious Pixel Trade Awards for 2016.

Once more, the industry accolades will be presented at the 5 star Grange City Hotel in London, where we will also be joined, for the first time, by winners of the inaugural Pixel Photography Competition.

Sponsored by Fujifilm, the new competition’s aim is to celebrate the creative skills and technical understanding that exist at the sharp end of our sector - the counter staff.

With submissions only being possible via Pixel.co.uk, the comp represents the first of its kind and gives us an opportunity to extend

the Pixel Awards format to further include the dealer channel.

We’re also announcing our host for 2016!

Elsewhere in this issue, Nikon officially announce their KeyMission range during a swanky event at the Science Museum and so much more in this, your November edition of Pixel and frankly, more than I can write in this space, so please do read on and get stuck in.

Finally, we pay tribute to longserving News Editor at Amateur Photographer, Chris Cheesman, who passed away suddenly this October.

A significant and tragic loss for our industry.

It’s extremely saddening and equally strange to be writing that this issue is dedicated to the memory of Chris Cheesman.

Simon Skinner, Editor Jess Saunders, Deputy Editor

Olloclip Announces Three All-New Lens Sets for iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, Featuring The Connect™ Interchangeable Lens System Olloclip announced its newly designed mobile photography lens sets for iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: the Core, Active and Macro Pro lens sets.

The updated designs feature new premium multi-element optics, the new Connect™ interchangeable lens system and an innovative hinged lens base, keeping the lens flush with the camera for improved optical performance while allowing compatibility with most screen protectors. This new design delivers premium optics in the simplest, quickest and most versatile mobile lens system ever created.

The new lens systems include a wearable Pendant Stand that keeps the lenses readily accessible and opens to create a pocket-sized tripod. Olloclip lenses work with all camera and social media apps and are great for photos and video, live broadcasting, time-lapse, panoramas and 360-degree VR. Pricing for olloclip lens sets for iPhone 7 and 7 Plus – Core Lens Set: £99.99, Active Lens Set: £119.99, Macro Pro Lens Set: £79.99, Combo (Core Lens Set and ollo Case): £119.99.

For more information, contact Swains International PLC on 01485 536 200.

Special

NEWS

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

Leica Introduces the Leica Q ‘Titanium Gray’ Leica Camera has revealed the Leica Q Titanium Gray, bringing a brand new deign to its highperformance compact camera, the Leica Q, which features a fixed fast prime lens and fullframe sensor.

The new model offers a titanium grey paint finish on the top of and base plate and back of the camera, combining the premium look of precious metal with classic black elements.

Pleasing to the eye yet durable, the Leica Q Titanium Gray includes a range of striking design

features that can’t be seen on the original model, for example, the distance scale in feet and the focal length on the lens are highlighted in red. Other key features include a 24 MP, full-frame CMOS sensor, full HD movie recording quality and an integrated Wi-Fi module for wireless transmission of still pictures and video to other devices.

The Leica Q Titanium Gray is available from mid-November with an SRP of £3,800 including VAT.

Manfrotto Presents: The Pro Light 3N1 Camera Backpack Manfrotto’s new Pro Light 3N1 Backpack comes in two models that can be used in 3 different ways by configuring its flexible internal dividers: photo, video or drone equipment. This multipurpose backpack is designed for professional equipment, e.g. models like the Canon 1Dx Mark II or Nikon D5, Canon EOS C100/300 and the DJI Phantom 4 or 3DR Solo.

Both models feature a padded device

protection pocket. The front panel and the tuck away secure strap hold a tripod firmly. They have a specially designed harness system with side release buckles for swapping positions and can be configured 3 ways: backpack mode for maximum comfort; sling mode across the preferred shoulder for the quickest lenschanging speed; cross backpack for a combination of comfort and speed.

The Pro Light 3N1-26 and 3N1-36 backpacks are available from £149.95. For more information, visit www.manfrotto.co.uk

Stretcher Bar Offer

Spend between £100 - £200

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NEWS

Rain Design Launch an Innovative Range of Stylish Stands for Tablets, iPads and Mobiles Rain Design has announced the launch of four exciting new products that provide added comfort and hands-free viewing for Apple users. mStand tablet, mStand tablet plus, mStand tabletpro and mStand mobile are additions to Rain Design’s bestselling mStand range.

Rain Design offer an awardwinning range of stylish products for PC and Apple users. All products offer added comfort and safety, helping to reduce strain-related conditions such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. They

can also help to extend the life of your machine and are designed to complement the sleek style of Apple equipment.

The Rain Design range is distributed by XP Distribution in the UK, Spain, Italy and France.

XP Distribution is Europe’s leading distributor of hardware, software, accessories and consumables into the digital imaging and graphics market.

For more information, visit: www.xpdistribution.com

Sony Announce New Addition to Acclaimed Line of Cyber-shot RX Cameras Sony has announced a new flagship model for their popular Cyber-shot RX100 series of compact cameras, the RX100 V (model DSC-RX100M5). The exciting new camera brings a new level of AF performance and speed to today’s compact camera market.

The camera can shoot continuously at speeds of up to 24 fps – the world’s fastest for a compact camera.

The RX100 V is equipped with a newly developed 1.0type stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor with a DRAM chip, a

ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T 24-70 mm F1.8 – 2.8 large aperture lens and an enhanced image processing system with a new front-end LSI chip that maximises processing speed, expands the memory buffer and optimises image quality, in particular at high ISO settings. The camera also features 4K video recording and super slow motion recording.

The new Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V compact camera is available in Europe in November priced at approximately €1,200. Full product details can be seen at www.sony.net

Ricoh Announce The THETA SC Ricoh announced the launch of the RICOH THETA SC. Developed as the standard-class model of the popular RICOH THETA series, the THETA SC camera provides outstanding usability even for firsttime 360-degree camera users and a full range of basic features and solid specifications.

Developed as a standardclass model in the series, the new RICOH THETA SC provides casual, effortless enjoyment of 360-degree imaging, and also signifies the arrival of a new era of virtual reality. While retaining the

high level of image quality provided by the RICOH THETA S using a high-performance CMOS image sensor and large-aperture lens, this mid-class model is lighter in weight than previous models.

Other key features include highresolution, fully spherical videos; 360 degree live view display; a stylish and easy-to-operate body and design and a large internal memory.

THETA SC is available now with an RRP of £249.99.

Own-brand Speedflash is Another Bright Idea from Kenro Kenro Ltd has introduced a unique own-brand TTL flashgun that fits both Nikon and Canon cameras using the same flash head, making it more convenient for those with both camera systems.

Fitting both Nikon i-TTL and Canon e-TTL systems, the new Kenro Speedflash KFL101 features high speed synchronization (up to 1/8000s), S1 and S2 slave functions, fast recycle time (2.3s), manual or

FLASH MEMORY

autozoom (18-180mm), built-in wide-angle diffuser and reflector card. This versatile flashgun is aimed at both pros and amateurs, with a guide number of 58 (ISO100, 180mm) and a wireless flash distance indoors of up to 30m and outdoors up to 15m.

Other great features include: rear curtain sync, rotating flash head, 4 communication channels and 3 slave unit groups, 5500K colour temperature, flash time 1/200s – 1/20,000s, power saving mode, overheat protection and manual flash control of 1/128 – 1/1 step 0.3EV. For pricing, contact Kenro on 01793 615836.

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Also Announced...

PC NIKKOR 19mm f/4E ED

I AM: 360

Pixel Attends Nikon’s KeyMission Cameras UK Launch at London’s Science Museum

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ikon’s announcements earlier this year, seeing the brand enter into the action camera market in earnest with the announcement of the KeyMission 360 camera, were somewhat of a surprise to many.

However, Nikon have been a company with many a surprise up it’s sleeve through this year, also announcing (as covered in our previous edition) their takeover of the nearlegendary automated robotics company MRMC who have made their name over the years, operating primarily in the motion picture and sports arenas. Nikon are certainly a company with diversity in their sights and we’re as keen as anyone to see where things begin to land as further announcements are made.

For now though, we duly accepted our invite to join the Nikon UK team at London’s Science Museum as they formally announce the launch and availability of the KeyMission range.

With two further products having been announced since the original KeyMission 360 camera, the KeyMission 180 and the KeyMission 70, Nikon essentially ‘took over’ the museum and the IMAX cinema within to present the ambition behind the KeyMission series. After a rousing introduction from UK Marketing Manager, Jeremy Gilbert, our first guest speaker, Henry Stuart, took to the stage to present his take on the imaging innovations that have seen him take the mantle as a leader of the 360 and VR movement.

Then, explorer Pen Hadow took to the stage to tell his compelling story about his one-man trek from Canada to the North Pole.

Two perfect presentations, demonstrating both what is now possible to capture with the latest 360 and VR camera technologies, and what Pen Hadlow could have captured, had he made his voyage today!

During the event, to which both press and dealers were invited, demonstrations were given amongst the hum of an excited room, not to mention, a few cocktails.

KEY: INFO The KeyMission 360 Announced earlier this year during CES, the KeyMission 360 records 4k/24p 360 degree video to allow VR recording with a lens mounted on either side of the camera’s sturdy body. It weighs roughly 180g and is waterproof to 30m, shockproof to 2m, dustproof and promises to work at temperatures as low as -10C. It also has vibration dampening and is compatible with Nikon’s SnapBridge 360/170 smartphone/tablet app and KeyMission 360/170 computer recording and editing software.

RRP: £419.99 The KeyMission 170 Another high def camera in the KeyMission range, the KeyMission 170 supports 4K/30p.

Its 170 degree shooting angle gives the ability to capture ultra-wide footage. Waterproof to 10 metres, (a waterproof case accessory is available to increase this to 40m). It’s also shockproof and dustproof.

The KeyMission 170 offers a range of shooting modes including ‘Add Slow Motion’, ‘Movie + Photo’, ‘Superlapse Movie’, ‘Loop Recording’ and ‘Time-lapse Movie’.

RRP: £329.99 The KeyMission 80 The KeyMission 80 is a tough camera and promises to shoot stills and film footage quickly.

It’s slim body is just at 15mm deep and hosts a rear-facing camera in addition to its primary lens and a built-in LCD monitor.

RRP: £249.00 On top of the official UK launch of the KeyMission range of cameras from Nikon, the company have also announced two brand new products for their more ‘traditional’ ranges of cameras:

Nikon has announced its first FX-format perspective control (PC) lens to host two PC rotation mechanisms. Suitable for architectural, fine art and landscape photography, the PC NIKKOR 19mm. The 19mm angle of view is made for large structures and spaces, and the optical construction ensures the distortion common in wide angle lenses is minimized, even around the edges of the frame.

Key features include the 19mm angle of view, allowing users to capture the true proportions of a scene or take in less of the foreground; doublelayer PC rotation, allowing both the tilt and shift to be engaged either individually or in combination; and superb ergonomics, compact and lightweight with a sturdy mechanism for smooth operation and a fluorine coating which prevents water, dust and dirt.

The PC NIKKOR is available from 27th October with an RRP of £3,299.99

AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR

Nikon’s new telephoto zoom.

Shooting sports, action, news or reportage, the latest version of their FXformat telephoto zoom lens holds a range of enhancements and improvements that promises to make a real difference in the field.

One of the key features is improved Vibration Reduction and lens-to-camera precision. The latest generation of Nikon’s VR allows the user to shoot at shutter speeds up to 4 stops slower than without VR, which activates the moment the shutter is pressed half way. Also hosting SPORT VR mode, the lens provides a more stable viewfinder image when shooting fast action and the improved AF tracking allows swift response to AF changes. The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm also delivers optical precision to the edge of the frame. Its brand new optical construction promises exceptional edge-to-edge performance, while the new design includes 6 ED glass elements, a fluorite lens element and a High Refractive Index element (HRI).

The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR 5 is available from 10thwww.pixel.co.uk November with an RRP of £2,649.99

The Trade Awards are Back!

Continued...

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onsidering the success and feedback received from the last two years of the Pixel Trade Awards, the decision to host this year’s event at the Grange City Hotel rested on the hospitality, accommodation, service and amenities provided by venue, and what better way to spend an evening than with drinks, great company and a breathtaking view of the Tower of London?

Proceedings will kick off with a champagne reception, closely followed by a welcome from Pixel Editor, Simon Skinner, while the Pixel Trade Awards’ guests will get the chance to devour the luxury three-course meal provided

by The Grange City Hotel’s team of talented chefs and waiting staff.

Once dinner has been served, the illustrious awards will then be presented to the victorious industry professionals, and this year’s award categories are as follows: 1. Independent Minilab Retailer of the Year 2. Print Franchise of the Year 3. Print Manufacturer of the Year 4. Mass Channel Retailer of the Year 5. Multiple Specialist Retailer of the Year 6. Independent Specialist Retailer of the Year 7. Web Specialist Retailer of the Year 8. Consumer Specialist Magazine of the Year 9. Distributor of the Year 10. Accessory Manufacturer of the Year 11. Camera Manufacturer of the Year 12. Outstanding Contribution to the Industry

6 www.pixel.co.uk

Last year saw a variety of industry professionals take home trophies from a variety of different categories. 2015’s winners included Digipix Ilford FDIS, Fujifilm Imaging Services, Kodak Alaris, John Lewis, London Camera Exchange, Park Cameras, WEX Photographic, Amateur Photographer, Intro 2020, Manfrotto and Sony itself, while just some of the almost-victorious brands in the form of runners up included Swains International, Sigma Imaging, Phoenix Photographic, Snappy Snaps, DNP, Argos, Calumet and Canon.

During the 2015 awards, our host, Hal Cruttenden, whose comedic presence lifted the evening to a real fun-filled state - albeit near the knuckle at times - the awards have earned a reputation for delivering great entertainment for all those present. This year is set to be equally, if not more upbeat than ever before, with the announcement of our 2016 host.

While sponsors of this year’s event – Sony and Nikon – have been known for some time, the celebrity comedian for the Pixel Trade Awards 2016 has yet to be announced… But without keeping you waiting any longer, we are proud to announce that our host for the event is none other than Adam Bloom!

Performing at the 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2004 and 2007 Edinburgh Festivals along with his own sell-out tour of Britain, Adam Bloom is one of Britain’s most inventive comedians, and is set to bring a completely fresh, comedic angle to the Pixel Trade Awards.

To further emphasise his popularity, he has also sold out theatres and festivals in Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland, Wellington and Cape Town. Back in July 2013, Adam Bloom made his 5th appearance at ‘Just For Laughs’ in Montreal, as well as being a part of the 2004

“This year is set to be equally, if not more upbeat than ever before, with the announcement of our 2016 host” ‘Just For Laughs Comedy Tour,’ playing to more than 42,000 people in 17 cities across Canada. He has also written 3 series of ‘The Problem with Adam Bloom’ for BBC Radio 4, as well as making a number of TV appearances on programmes, including The Young Person’s Guide to Becoming a Rock Star and Comedy Lab – (both of which aired on Channel 4) BBC 2 programmes, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Mock the Week, The Stand-up Show and Edinburgh Nights; BBC 1’s Head on Comedy, along with The World Stands Up and The Comedy Store on Comedy Central.

Adam Bloom has also been celebrated in the past with a number of awards himself. Back in 1998, Adam was the winner of the Polygram Video Punters Comedy Award and the Time Out Award (for best stand-up), as well as being nominated for the Stella Artois Award in 1999.

He also won the Shooting People Comedy Award at the 2011 London Short Film Festival and was a nominee at the Chortle Awards for Best Club Comic.

Get booking! Seats are filling fast, so to book your space for this year’s event, contact Lee Mansfield on 01323 819007 or email lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk

TRADE

2016

Pixel Editor, Simon Skinner said ahead of the awards: “It’s hard to believe that we are so close to the 12th annual trade awards ceremony. It remains one of the only opportunities for the trade to get together behind closed doors and to really let our hair down. The event offers a fantastic opportunity for the whole trade to meet, be they manufacturers, dealers/buyers or suppliers. Returning to the Grange City Hotel has been a really simple choice as they have looked after us so well since the awards first moved there in 2014. Needless to say that I am really looking forward to Adam’s set too. I’ve seen him live before and he’s a comic at the top of his game”.

Jason Clark, Sales Manager of Photo Channel at Sony UK Ltd commented on their sponsorship of the 2016 event: “Sony is pleased to be sponsoring the Pixel Trade Awards for the 2nd year running. As an industry we face opportunities and challenges together and the awards are a great chance to recognise retailers and manufacturers who are making a difference. There has never been a more exciting time to be part of the photographic industry and we look forward to celebrating with the winners on awards night.”

Nikon also stated their excitement on sponsoring the Pixel Trade Awards: “Nikon are delighted to be involved again in this year’s Pixel Trade Awards. We’re pleased to show our support for our retail partners and their colleagues in the photographic industry through this prestigious event. Despite this year’s challenging conditions it’s been a great year for us here at Nikon. We continue to be at the forefront of technology with our SnapBridge Bluetooth transfer app and the announcement of our flagship D5 and D500 cameras at the start of the year. We are looking forward to celebrating these accomplishments and the achievements of others at this year’s Pixel Trade Awards.”

Adam Bloom

www.pixel.co.uk 7

CHRIS CHEESMAN

Photo Industry Says Goodbye to ‘News-hound’ Chris Cheesman Continued...

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hris had worked as resident, chief newshound within the walls of AP mag for 17 years, during which he forged a reputation as the best news journalist in the photographic industry.

Nigel Atherton, Group Editor, Photography at Time Inc UK, explained in an email last week that: “Chris’ tenacity and determination brought him more scoops and big stories than anyone, but he was also admired for his honesty and integrity. He never forgot that he was on the side of the reader, and of getting to the truth”.

Furthermore and in a direct message to Pixel magazine, Nigel explained: “Everyone at Amateur Photographer is shocked and devastated at the news of Chris Cheesman’s unexpected passing. During his 17 years at AP Chris made an immeasurable contribution to the success of the magazine. Few would argue that he was the best news journalist in the industry. Quite simply, he broke more big stories than anyone else and gained a reputation as tenacious and determined to get the story, but also a man of honesty and great integrity. The esteem with which he is held in the industry, both in the UK and internationally, is a measure not only of how good he was at his job but how well liked he was by everyone.”

Chris was a man that very few people didn’t know or admire in the photo industry. Retailers respected him, manufacturers often feared his presence during press conferences and his fellow journalists all learned something from him. Everyone, it seems, will miss him dearly.

He had recently announced his departure from Time Inc and AP magazine and was looking to make his next steps as a freelance journalist towards the end of October this year.

A simple fact that only serves to reinforce the tragedy of his departure.

Social media feeds from those who knew Chris well were set alight at the news and one person in particular, who had also recently left the AP fold to follow a freelance future, was Callum Mcinerney. A great example of the high regard in which Chris was seen by his colleagues, Callum wrote: “Yesterday Amateur Photographer staff, past and present, received some awful news that Chris Cheesman passed away suddenly. He spent nearly 20 years as the news writer of that magazine – three of those sat opposite me. I’m still a bit shocked.

It has really put into perspective how much we

8 www.pixel.co.uk

“I read a lot of the words written about Cheeso from the people in the photo industry and the thoughts are all the same. He was an incredible journalist with a ruthless attitude when it came to following a good news story.”

- Callum Mcinerney take for granted and how precious life is. Up until last week, Chris and I were exchanging emails and he was hatching his plan for when he got out of hospital. I read a lot of the words written about Cheeso from the people in the photo industry and the thoughts are all the same. He was an incredible journalist with a ruthless attitude when it came to following a good news story. I overheard many persistent phone calls trying to get the answers he wants while I sat at my desk. I spent the whole of yesterday thinking about Cheeso and I have nothing but amazing, happy memories of him.

Getting Cheeso on the Porn Star Martini’s at the AP Christmas Party, the countless press trips, 1pm Fish & Chip Friday with the boys and the ‘digital armageddon’ which was an endless

source of news and banter in equal measure.

Working on a weekly magazine is an intense process and it takes a strong team to do it.

Truth is, it’s more like a family than a team of colleagues. I feel immensely saddened by the passing of Cheeso – he was a brilliant man and a fantastic friend. RIP Cheeso (also referred to as, The Big Cheese - The Cheesemeister AP’s resident newshound)”.

Chris will be missed by the whole team here at Pixel magazine and our thoughts and greatest respects are with Chris’ nearest and dearest.

He will be missed by many.

17/07/1965 - 17/10/2016

www.pixel.co.uk 9

Behind The Counter!

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 J&A Cameras 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 simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Have you seen an effect on sales since the Brexit vote?

Kev: Sales have increased temporarily as people realise that new gear will cost more soon! Is anyone really surprised?

Tom: The minute we voted out it was obvious that the pound would take a hit and this in turn would lead to an increase in import prices. The short term increase in sales is obviously welcome but who knows what the ramifications will be in the mid to long-term!

Josh: What’s Brexit?

Rich: Was unable to comment If you could have any camera kit for free, what would it be?

Kev: Fujifilm XT-2 Tom: Pentax 645Z Josh: That’s easy! Sony A7 R mk ll ...

Rich: Was unable to comment Black and white or colour photography?

Kev: Colour Tom: Colour, then convert to B&W Josh: Spot colour...

Rich: Was unable to comment What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s happened in store?

Kev: Watching Rich lose his head Tom: Watching Rich lose his head Josh: Watching Rich lose his head...

Rich: Was unable to comment

10 www.pixel.co.uk

What’s the strangest/most stupid thing a

customer has asked you?

Kev: Can you fit 256 photos onto a 256mb card?

Tom: Is your beard real?

Josh: No one thing is stupid - every question has a relevance and basic honesty that is frankly humbling...

Rich: Was unable to comment What’s your opinion on ‘selfies’?

Kev: Have you seen us? Why would we be interested in ‘selfies’?

Tom: All the time! As a photographer, I’m the only one I trust to capture my very essence!

Josh: I always get someone else to do my selfies What got you into photography and photo retail in the first place?

Kev: I was desperate!

Tom: I was desperate!

Josh: The pole dancing didn’t work out...

Rich: Was unable to comment New or used?

Kev: New Tom: New Josh: Borrowed...

Rich: Was unable to comment Are you seeing an increased and sustained interest from your traditional customer base in videography?

Kev: No, this is North Devon and our traditional customer base is only just coming to terms with Cine film!

Tom: No, but that may be because I don’t understand the question Josh: Definitely - only last week I sold a videography camera to some old bloke who said he’d been shopping here for years...

Rich: Was unable to comment We talk a lot about bags in this issue - are you seeing good margin with these products and are you stocking bags for drones yet?

Kev: Don’t get me started on bags - we love them!

Hipster bags, rucksacks, gladstone bags, they’re all great! We stock loads and sell loads - sometimes even to customers!

Tom: My favourites are Tea Josh: I didn’t know that drones were into bags...

Rich: Was unable to comment What new camera equipment has excited you this year so far?

Kev: Anything that leaves the shop marked ‘sold’!

Tom: OMG I can’t begin to tell you how excited I get handling any equipment!

Josh: There was this three-legged monopod which was rather exciting...

Rich: Was unable to comment What single thing would improve your business right now?

Kev: Get rid of Rich Tom: Get rid of Rich Josh: Get rid of Rich...

Rich: Bugger! www.jandacameras.co.uk

Making a Splash!

This year’s Digital Splash, organised by Wilkinson Cameras, stepped up a gear, occupying Liverpool’s new Exhibition Centre for two days in October

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in the university venue, we saw roughly 1500 igital Splash 2016 was billed by the people. At Digital Splash 2016, we welcomed team at Wilkinson Cameras as the place more like 6200 people over the two days. Most to be for professional photographers, of the presentations were sold out and the enthusiasts, aspiring videographers, walks were really popular with all being sold astronomers and even bird watchers. out too.

With a heavy emphasis on visitor engagement, visitors were encouraged along SS: How has the early feedback been from to the event by a healthy number of attractions, the exhibitors? including getting hands-on with the latest kit, DP: It’s been fantastic so far; it really did picking up expert advice, a packed programme work and with the numbers showing up, of professional presentations, workshops and of everyone was happy and many have told me course, show deals. that their expectations were far exceeded, so Curious to find out more, and to talk about I’m confident that they will the importance of event want to be involved again planning for retailers in next year. Fujifilm is already general, Pixel Editor, talking about taking on a Simon Skinner caught “I don’t want a shop bigger stand; their talks up with David Parkinson in every town; I just were really well attended from Wilkinson Cameras don’t think that the but they only had limited to see how it all went with business justifies seating space, so they, for what is now the biggest that nowadays. I one, will need more space to photography show in the accommodate the crowds. north of England would rather have 20

fantastic stores than

SS: How important has Simon Skinner: Hi David, 100 average ones” Digital Splash become first off and with this year for Wilkinson Cameras in being the first time you’ve business terms? organised your annual DP: In the grand scheme show in a considerably of things, it’s still relatively small, but it’s a nice larger space, has Digital Splash ‘16 been bonus to have in what is generally a quiet the success that you’d hoped with regards month. We’re now re-writing our business plan to visitor numbers? and that will have an emphasis on the growth David Parkinson: It went really well. We have a of the show. Generally speaking and with the positive tsunami of people flooding through the Liverpool store having been open for three doors on the Saturday and whilst Sunday was a years now, we are seeing the city centre stores little quieter, we still saw great numbers. There doing the lion’s share of the business. It’s our was a different pace on the Sunday this year intention to combine expansion into more city with a different type of customer, but we are centre sites with a strong and growing show very happy with the numbers that we attracted. that’s supported by a strong website. That’s going to be the future of Wilkinson Cameras, I SS: And what were the overall numbers in think. We can’t be everywhere and don’t want the end? a shop in every town; I just don’t think that the DP: Well, if you consider 2015, when we were

business justifies that nowadays. I would rather have 20 fantastic stores than 100 average ones.

SS: If any Pixel readers are considering organising (or already organise) events for their locality, camera clubs etc., what advice would you give them to maximise their potential returns?

DP: You have to be incredibly organised!

Also, if you want to bring something different to your business, then you have to look to bring engagement; people want more than just a store nowadays and the days of people ‘popping in’ to shop are long gone. You have to engage with people now and with Digital Splash, we took the angle of workshops, tutorials, photo-walks and other interesting activities. For example, anyone who booked onto a photo-walk could then come back into the show, pick his or her favourite shot and have it printed off. That was a real hit. We also hosted our own ‘Digital Splash Awards’ and some of the entries were really incredible. We announced the winner on the Sunday and the girl that won was over the moon! These are things that any store can do, regardless of the size. They are valuable ways to gain data and to drive customers through the door.

SS: So have you re-booked the space for 2017 and if so, what are the dates?

DP: We have penciled dates for next year and they are the 21st and 22nd October.

SS: That’s half term week, isn’t it?

DP: It is indeed and we are mindful of it and we’ll have to give it a little consideration before confirming. We will announce officially in due course.

SS: We’ll look forward to it. Thanks David.

Digitalsplash.tv

www.pixel.co.uk 11

IRIX LENSES – A NEW LEVEL OF FUNCTIONALITY Irix 15mm f/2.4

Irix is a new brand of photographic lenses which were made in Korea and designed in Europe. The company TH Swiss AG released this year Irix 15mm f/2.4 - a new wide-angle Full Frame rectilinear lens with a 110° angle of view. Irix is not only a smart design solution encompassing both durabale construction and innovative technology, but also a tool with exceptional parameters. The complex optical system of Irix 15mm f/2.4 is responsible for extremely high image quality and improving image brightness on the edges, while minimizing geometrical distortion and optical aberration at the same time. With a minimum focusing distance of 0.28 meter (0.92 ft) and 9 rounded aperture blades, this lens ensures beautifully smooth out-of-focus areas. Irix has more unique features to set a new level of lens functionality, let’s take a look:

Front filter thread

Irix 15mm f/2.4 gives a possibility of using 95mm screw-in filters at the front.

Neutrino coating formula

Neutrino coating is a special formula, which is combined with several types of anti-reflective layers that provide perfect light transmission, high contrast and natural colors.

Focus lock

Focus lock function holds focusing ring at desired position and prevents from its accidental rotation. This function works perfectly for hiking and street photography.

Filter window

For a more convenient use, petal lens hood has a moveable window that enables operating rotatable filters without removing lens hood.

12 www.pixel.co.uk

Weather sealings

Irix 15mm f/2.4 lenses are made with phenomenal precision, allowing them to be used in even the harshest weather conditions. Each lens is equipped with a weather sealed construction that protects the interior against dust and moisture.

Thanks to inner seals, our lenses are also protected from accidental water splashes.

Infinity click

When the focusing ring is set in the “infinity” position, there is a noticeable “click” (infinity click), making it easy to find the value without looking. This function is ideal for nightscape photography because it allows getting perfect focus at infinity without looking at focusing scale.

Electronic aperture control

Electronic aperture control simplifies the use of lens and llows to store aperture value in Exif.

Rear gelatin filter slot

Irix lenses are equipped with a slot for gelatin filters what increases versatility of the lens. Thanks to this fact the user has an ability of application both filters simultaneously (one in the front and the second one in the back of the lens for ex. polarizer filter in front and ND filter in the back). The size of gelatin filter slot is 30x30mm.

Focus scale calibration

Each Irix lens that leaves the factory is properly calibrated.

However, focus scale calibration function provides the unique opportunity to adjust the focus scale for a particular model of the camera.

Photographer’s dream

Do you think that is all? Irix team has created two versions of the Irix 15mm f/2.4 – Blackstone and Firefly – for the comfort of the most demanding photographers. In Irix Blackstone (Premium version) the solid aluminium and magnesium alloy ensures foolproof lens protection, even in the extreme conditions. Easy operation is achieved in all lighting conditions thanks to engraved fluorescent markings that reflect the light. This lens is equipped with four rubber seals, which protect the camera mount and focusing mechanism against dust and moisture. Thanks to inner seals Irix lenses are secured from accidental water splashes. Irix Firefly (Standard version with three rubber seals) is the most lightweight lens in its class. This lens offers same optical performance as Blackstone, but its ultralight construction, makes it the perfect choice for hikers, travellers, or anyone who simply likes to pack light. Its ergonomic focusing ring with rubber grip, enables easy, convenient camera operation. Both versions of 15mm f/2.4 give a photographer freedom to capture the most ideal moment, whether it is big city’s architecture or wildlife scenery. Imagined by photographers, built by engineers, perfected by designers – this is Irix, the photographer’s dream. Prepare for more.

www.pixel.co.uk 13

STOCKING FILLERS

Pixel Recommends:

Stocking Fillers The festivities are fast approaching, and now is the time to gather together the best gifts and gadgets. Here, Pixel recommends its favourite stocking fillers...

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…” and time to get shopping for the most wonderful gifts and gadgets you can find. While we may just be getting used to the idea of Autumn, a recent survey of 1000 adults showed that 27% of people had already started their Christmas shopping in August. As consumers are already preparing for the upcoming chaotic season, retailers are urged to do the same in order to keep up with growing demands.

2015’s festive holidays did retailers a few favours, to say the least, with UK shoppers

spending approximately £2 billion – a 30% increase from 2014. Last year’s online sales also continued to skyrocket during the months of November and December, with £21 billion spent in 2013, £24 billion in 2014 and an estimated £37 billion spent in 2015. Following in the footsteps of previous years, these statistics are expected to prevail again at the end of 2016.

As the value of what we spend online goes up, so do the amount of orders and parcel deliveries, and all this shopping is heavily

Olloclip Studio

Podo!

Olloclip Studio designed for both an iPhone 6/6s and iPhone 6/6s Plus - an integrated mobile photography solution that combines an all-new protective case design with an integrated rail-mounting solution (patent pending) and a series of mountable accessories. £79.99.

For more information, contact Swains International PLC on 01485 536 200.

XSories Capxule Perfect for keeping your essentials neatly stored and safe from the inevitable knocks and bumps, the XSories Capxule Large Universal Case is a great addition to any day out filming. A great partner for camera accessories, compact camcorders and a GoPro or two, the soft padded walls and elastic web straps are suitable for a variety of items. With a carabiner for extra security and a mesh pouch for cable storage inside the lid, the Capxule Case offers a wide range of options. £29.99.

xsories.eu

14 www.pixel.co.uk

skewed towards the Christmas shopping season, with almost one in four of the year’s online orders placed in November and December. This, of course, is enhanced by the annual (and chaotic) Black Friday, which took off on 22nd November last year and was the busiest period of the year for online shoppers, with estimated sales of £4.3 billion – up by 62% from 2015 and well ahead of the 44% growth during the same period in 2014.

Here, Pixel recommends some of the best stocking filler gifts for you and your colleagues…

This wireless, re-stickable camera can turn any surface into a portable photo booth. Just stick, shoot, & share. Podo syncs with your own smartphone, so that you can take a photo, video, or time-lapse and it will send to your camera library over Bluetooth. Weighing in at only 50g and measuring just 5 x 5 x 2.5cm, you can take Podo just about anywhere! Packing a 5 Megapixel image sensor, 8GB of memory, a micro-USB port, LED flash, and rechargeable Li-ion battery, Podo is your very own personal photographer, and new best friend! £59.95.

www.podolabs. com

SECRET SANTA

Me-Shot Deluxe 2.0 Handheld, wireless telescopic system for image capture.

Lift your content from clichè to chic and turn your Instagram feed into something unique. Reach above the crowds, or turn Me-Shot on yourself and friends to capture that moment. Pholder 2.0 cradles your device with a gentle yet secure grip, while XSmart Remote 2.0 keeps your hands as free as your mind. Me-Shot collapses into a pocket size stick to stash anywhere, so you are never without it. £10.99.

xsories.eu

WIN ME!

To be entered into our prize draw for the Me-Shot Deluxe 2.0 send an email to amy@lifemediagroup.co.uk with the subject line ‘Competition’ to win.

Diana Cortina Camera This limited edition Camera is a perfect gift for budding photographers and skiers alike.The Diana F+ Cortina shoots glowing medium-format squares, emitting the distinct Diana look: soft-focus, vignettes and radiant colours. £89.00.

4-in-1 Lens Kit - PNY Technologies Included is a complete set of accessories to turn the iPhone into an advanced state-of-the-art camera. The four lenses – Super Wide Angle, Fisheye, Wide Angle and Macro – open up a whole new world of images that can be taken by a smartphone. The best thing about the kit is how easy it is to use – just pop on the magnetic clip and you are good to go. The kit comes with a storage case and a 2-year warranty. RRP £39.99.

Availbale with approx. 25% end-to-end margin Distributors – Exertis, Tech Data and Hypertec

Smartphone Projector

lomography.com

Leef iBridge Leef iBridge is a compact and convenient must-have for all Apple users, featuring a lightning connector at one end and a standard USB connector on the other. Users can also take photos and videos directly to the iBridge, bypassing their Apple device’s internal memory altogether. Ideal for anyone with a full to capacity iPhone, Instagram addicts, commuters or holidaymakers.

Starts at £69.99 for 32GB (64, 128 and 256GB also available)

leefco.com

Technology has moved forward so fast that we can now download and watch movies directly on our smart phones! This in itself is incredible, but crowding over a small screen to watch the latest release with friends is not the way you planned it! But with this incredibly clever and compact Smart Phone Projector you can finally watch movies the way they were intended, transforming your home or bedroom into the big screen! This Smart Phone Projector projects the images onto the wall so you get a much better viewing experience, without the use of wires! Cleverly leaving space to plug your speakers in, the projector helps you create a cinema in your own room! £15.95.

www.luckies.co.uk www.pixel.co.uk 15

In the Bag! Pixel delves into the vast and (traditionally) lucrative, bag and hardware protection sector in our focus for November

C

amera bags are one of those products that are inextricably linked to camera hardware itself. Often presenting greater margin than many other items in store, often including the camera itself, camera bags are a clear and definite ‘next step purchase’ for any customer who wants to protect their equipment.

Camera bags, quite literally, come in all shapes and sizes. With cameras morphing at a rapid pace in recent years, we’re seeing a broader array of body shapes, perhaps than ever before and with this, the bags that protect them also change to accommodate.

Drones, CSC, action/360, VR cams, instant cameras, compacts, camcorders and prosumer video cameras all join the fray with DSLRs and make this one of the most varied and complex sectors in the industry.

We spoke with Anne Robertson at Peli Products UK Ltd about how they are meeting the needs of the end user:

Drone & Cube Case ©Quadcopters

16 www.pixel.co.uk

Pixel: Tell us about how Peli are positioned in the current market.

Anne Robertson: Peli UK, established in 1992, have spent 24 years distributing Peli products in the UK. From modest beginnings in a Salford basement, importing Pelican products into the UK, the company has grown steadily over almost a quarter of a century, now occupying a 20,000 sq ft facility with offices, warehousing and logistics operations in a stunning location at the edge of the Pennines in Glossop.

The cases have been designed and manufactured by Pelican Products in Torrance in California for the last 40 years, and are established across the globe as the market leader for high quality equipment protection. The range now comprises of 86 models to protect, store and safely transport film, photographic and broadcast equipment. The most recent additions to the range are the TrekPak insert system and a redesign of the padded dividers, which are initially launched with the Peli Air case range this summer. A lifetime ‘you break it, we replace it’ warranty and outstanding customer service offered by Peli UK ensures that Peli Cases are a top choice for professional photographers.

P: How do you see the current bag/ protection market, trends, value, growth areas etc?

AR: Current trends are all about ease of access, organisation and protection of equipment.

Work stations are another growth area, which has been customer led by photographers Tom Barnes and Dave Kai Piper. The wheeled Peli 1510 and 1560 cases are the perfect choice with photographic kit and laptop immediately to hand during a shoot and a solid surface to place a tethered laptop when out in the field.

P: What about drones, Anne?

AR: With the growth in the drone market, the Peli cube cases have come to the fore, offering the highest level of protection for storage and transportation. Some Peli case models can house the original lightweight drone bag/case to

offer maximum protection and, of course, the option for bespoke foam to protect individual components and spares.

P: What innovations have there been at Peli of late?

AR: The launch of the Peli Air case range this summer is our latest product development, offering a weight reduction of up to 40% but still retaining the strength and durability of the Peli Protector range. A Kickstarter innovation, the TrekPak system of dividers accompanies the launch of the air cases. This system comprises of a wall section designed to fit a specific model of Peli Air case, divider panels, locking pins and a precision cutting tool.

We also spoke with Tony Stent, Director at Cameraworld, about camera bag innovation: “There hasn’t really been a lot of technological advancement in camera bags; that’s why I like them. The best development I can think of currently, though, would be the ‘Silent Velcro’ featured on the Tenba DNA and Cooper camera bags. In terms of design development, this would be won by the Vanguard VEO 37 shoulder bag by including a travel tripod pocket at the bottom. As an advocate of tripods I very much welcome this and hope that it’s taken up in more bags in the future.”

Pixel: What about the size of bags Tony?

Tony Stent: Camera bags are definitely getting smaller, naturally, as people carry smaller cameras and outfits. The trend is also towards messenger bags with an emphasis on looking less like camera bags.

The very small Mirrorless System cases, designed for cameras with a lens attached plus one other, were slow in coming and also slow to take off.

Strange, but they are starting to improve now and, as Mirrorless undoubtably grows, they will continue to increase.

PeliAir TrekPak ©SimeonQuarrie

They are most certainly an important add-on sale for both us and the customer and we stock a wide variety to suit different customer tastes. The team are incentivised on some selected models and ranges at times but also, as photographers themselves, are able to enthuse about the ones they like and use.

“We continue to see Toploaders performing really well, as they are a really convenient solution for a single camera and lens set-up”

Pixel: And how about the all-important margins?

TS: Margins are better than they were a few years ago but not as good as they used to be!

Finally, we spoke with Loraine Morgan, who heads up marketing for Daymen/Lowepro and had this to say:

Pixel: What have been the most popular Lowepro products with regards to dealer orders so far this year, Loraine?

Loraine Morgan: We have a real mix of products, from entry level ranges right through to high end backpacks being ordered. We continue to see Toploaders performing really well, as they are a really convenient solution for a single camera and lens set-up right through to ranges that accommodate much more camera gear, such as the Tahoe and ProTactic series.

P: What would you consider to be the most significant developments in bag innovation lately?

LM: I would say it is creating bags that are comfortable and accommodate the other (now) essential technical devices that are key components of a photographers camera bag; laptop, tablet, smartphone etc., whilst ensuring that the bag can be easily transported, particularly in overhead lockers on a flight. This evolution in bags is very much the norm now, but in the last 10 years has been a significant change.

P: How have Lowepro responded to the demand for such diverse solutions; drones, for example?

LM: We’ve embraced these new categories and ensured that we have solutions to address the demand. Taking drones as an example, this is a market that is set to continue to grow and spark further interest. There were limited solutions out there and we now have a very strong range of Lowepro cases and backpacks available which have been very well received, along with new solutions for racing drones (US online only). For us, it was a natural fit in that these devices require a carrying solution and we make protective bags and cases. www.peliproducts.co.uk Lowepro.co.uk

www.pixel.co.uk 17

WATCH THE VIDEO NOW

Generation X is a revolutionary and uncompromising range of flash products from Bowens that have been engineered for speed, reliability and cutting edge design. Bowens XMS is the definitive fully digital studio flash range ensuring total accuracy of flash power and colour temperatures.

Twitter.com/BowensFlash Facebook.com/BowensFlash

When the brief demands the best tools available, Generation X from Bowens is the solution.

Bowens.co.uk

18 www.pixel.co.uk

Instagram.com/BowensFlash

ŠSteve Brown - stevebrowncreative.com

Generation X Revolutionary Uncompromising Unmatched

in print

RETAIL SOLUTIONS FOR THE PRINT PROFESSIONAL

A ‘RESURGENCE IN PRINT’ ENCOURAGED BY FUJIFILM AS THEIR 2016 WONDER PHOTO TOUR DRAWS TO A CLOSE Designed to inspire, entertain, and educate, the Wonder Photo Tour saw Fujifilm attend seven family-orientated events through this year, including the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta and Bournemouth Air Festival, engaging with an impressive 120,000 visitors.

The main purpose of the Wonder Photo Tour was to appeal to young families and,

specifically, those who have never printed their photographs before. To achieve this, Fujifilm drew visitors onto their stand with the promise of a free magnetic photo print. Not only that, but the ‘Fuji home-on-wheels’ (a portable home filled with a variety of photo prints and products, available through the Fujifilm Imagine mobile app) was a draw within itself.

As widely reported, here in In:Print, Fujifilm UK took their Wonder Photo Shop concept on the road this summer, travelling 1,000 miles across the UK to deliver the inaugural Wonder Photo Tour

Peter Wigington, Marketing Manager at Fujifilm UK said: “We know that users are taking more photos that ever on their smartphones, but with the instant digital gratification there isn’t as much of a demand for printed materials anymore.

Continued on page 20...

www.pixel.co.uk 19

ROUNDTABLE COVERALARIS FEATURE: CEWE KODAK

During the tour, Fujifilm took the opportunity to survey potential customers on the stand, which gained a total of 1,434 responses, leading to some interesting insights into the way people are taking and printing photographs, including: • 81% of those surveyed take photographs on a smartphone • 44% use a digital camera • 38% print their photos at home • 33% print their photos at a supermarket • 25% print their photos online • 69% would like to order photo prints and gifts from their smartphones • 33% rarely or never print their photographs The information and feedback gained from the Wonder Photo Tour has been invaluable for FUJIFILM UK, who will use these insights to plan future marketing campaigns and strategies.

Links and Contacts

Wonder Photo Tour: https://fujifilm-blog. com/wonder-photo-tour-by-fujifilm-uk/ Peter Wigington, Marketing Manager: peter.wigington@fujifilm.com Louise Dickens, Digital Media & Marketing Assistant: louise.dickens@fujifilm.com

20 www.pixel.co.uk

A ‘RESURGENCE IN PRINT’ ENCOURAGED BY FUJIFILM AS THEIR 2016 WONDER PHOTO TOUR DRAWS TO A CLOSE

“

By providing visitors with a photograph from their own smartphone, printed almost instantly, and showing them how photos can make a home, we hope to introduce the magic of photography to a digital generation.”

In total, 12,130 photo magnets were printed, showing visitors how easy the app process is, and of course, the quality of the prints.

The Instax team were also present with the colourful VW campervan to entertain the ‘teen’ crowd and to promote Fujifilm’s range of popular instant cameras. This proved particularly popular with younger, female visitors, and the team saw an influx in social media activity with reference to the Instax brand during the dates of each event in the calendar.

Summing up the successes of the first ever Wonder Photo Tour, Peter Wigington

Continued...

“We’ve never done anything like this before, but we think it’s important to educate visitors about how photos can make a home. Photography has always been at the heart of FUJIFILM, and our message is about creating lasting memories to share.”

- Peter Wigington, Marketing Manager

said: “What we’ve learnt is that there is indeed an appreciation and desire for printed photography. We’re using this information to enhance the FUJIFILM customer experience, and continue to come up with new, innovative products and ways of printing photographs.”

PIXEL TRADEin print

TRADE

2016

AWARDS 2016

FRIDAY 2ND DECEMBER THE GRANGE CITY HOTEL, LONDON

The 12th annual Industry Awards are almost here!

On Friday 2nd December we will recognise and celebrate the elite in our industry and present the 2016 winners with their all important Pixel Trade Awards.

LIMITED SPACES ARE AVAILABLE TO ATTEND THE CEREMONY AT THE FANTASTIC GRANGE CITY HOTEL IN LONDON, SO IF YOU’RE NOT ALREADY BOOKED IN, MOVE QUICKLY TO ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE A PLACE AT THE TRADE EVENT OF THE YEAR! We have options for seating and accommodation for 2016.

For more information please contact Elliott Mansfield on

01323 819 012 or elliott@lifemediagroup.co.uk

www.pixel.co.uk www.pixel.co.uk 1 21

Mike Collier, Barbara and son Neil

Miss Swansea 2016 presenting Runner up

PHOTO-ME COVER FEATURE: CEWE

Barbara Collier Presenting a Newcomer Award

CASE STUDY:

COLLIERS PHOTO IMAGING Touching New Photography Award Helps Grow Business for Independent Photo Retailer

C

olliers Photo Imaging is a family-run photographic shop in Swansea, Wales, established in 1989 by Mike and Barbara Collier, who traded under the Kodak Express brand for many years until 2007. In 2012 their son, Neil Collier, took over the business and became a member of the FUJIFILM Digital Imaging Service (FDIS) group.

Since then, Colliers Photo Imaging has gone on to win FDIS Shop of the Year in 2013, as well as the FUJIFILM Business Endeavor Award in both 2013 and 2014. And now, in 2016, Neil Collier has created his own award for local photographers; the Mike Collier Monochrome Award, in dedication to his late father.

Born in 1943, Mike Collier developed a keen interest in photography during his early teens.

In 1960, he entered a national newspaper competition and won the princely sum of £500, which he used to buy his first car. He went on to shoot a large number of photographs in the Rhondda Valley where he was born and raised, recording the day to day lives of it’s inhabitants and the mining community in the 60s and 70s.

In 1976 he gained a Fellowship Qualification with the Royal Photographic Society, and his entire photographic collection was eagerly purchased by the National Library of Wales in 2013.

Sadly, Mike Collier passed away last year.

His son Neil established the Mike Collier Monochrome Award as a tribute to his work, which was shot exclusively in monochrome

22 www.pixel.co.uk

black and white. Neil wanted to do something to honour his father and all the lives he had touched in the photographic world, so he decided to launch the Mike Collier Monochrome Award in January this year.

Collier pitched the idea to local Trostre and Velindre Camera Club, who were eager to be involved in such a touching concept.

Securing sponsorship prizes from a number of photographic companies, including FUJIFILM, Neil received 28 submissions for the first award: “Each member submitted one monochrome 12x8 digital image anonymously with a six digit code. We printed all the images in-house on the Fujifilm 8” lustre drylab paper and mounted them with stunning results.”

Judging took place in late August, and an awards evening was held in September to announce the winners. Over 80 people were in attendance, including photography club members and their families; potential new customers for Colliers Photo Imaging.

“We took the opportunity to promote some of our services using pop-up banners. It was a great advertisement for the shop and everything was printed using our FUJIFILM DL-430 drylab and Epson 7800 large format printer. We have already been approached by other local camera clubs who wish to participate in the award.”

In fact, the Mike Collier Monochrome Award is booked up until 2018, and is gaining the business some valuable new customers; “We’ve already printed a number of large

format prints for five new customers all from the host club of Trostre, plus I am working on a panel printed submission with one photographer in particular.”

FUJIFILM’s Photo Imaging Marketing Manager, Peter Wigington, said it was a pleasure to sponsor the award, and hopes it will inspire other FUJIFILM Digital Imaging Service members to think of creative ways to network with new audiences: “It’s a testament to Mike’s reputation in the industry that so many people responded and supported the event, and a fantastic effort from Neil in organising and running it - something he can feel really proud of. The fact that two other local camera clubs have asked to host the event in coming years is a great opportunity for Colliers Photo Imaging. As with all of our FDIS retailers, I will always look to support this kind of local initiative.”

Contacts:

Neil Collier, Colliers Photo Imaging collierphotoswansea@ntlbusiness.com 01792 419929 Peter Wigington, Marketing Manager (Photo Imaging, FUJIFILM UK Ltd): peter.wigington@fujifilm.com 01234 572138 Louise Dickens, Digital Media & Marketing Assistant (Photo Imaging, FUJIFILM UK Ltd): louise.dickens@fujifilm.com 01234 572127

in print Frontier-s dx100 High Quality Inkjet Printer

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29

COUNTRIES SUPPORTED

IN:PRINT PAYS A VISIT TO VERITEK’S NEW HQ

ENGINEERS FIX

56,225 BREAKDOWNS PER YEAR

Following on from our September edition’s feature piece, where we delved into the archive of photographic facts with James Salomon and Jim Edgar from Veritek, we popped into the offices to take a look at the new digs as the company continues to grow

M

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99,459

any of you will have read business, the market has changed more and across Europe. This the in-depth piece that in the last decade than in, perhaps, the diversification has allowed JOBS we produced recently, preceding three decades. Faster, Veritek to retain and EMPLOYED COMPLETED having been aware of simpler technology has made grow the field force ENGINEERS PER YEAR the operation and services available equipment footprint smaller, ‘wet’ where other service from Veritek throughout their history of photo-labs are less commonplace companies have had to AVERAGE serving the photo industry. The company and dry technology is maturing with shed staff”.

CUSTOMER has been a stabilising influence in the market printers utilising Dye Sublimation, All of this has led to the inevitable SATISFACTION RATING for more than thirty years now, installing, LED and Inkjet technologies requiring move into more purpose built facilities. servicing and repairing silver halide minilabs less on-site engineering. To respond With Veritek’s original headquarters from every manufacturer in the market. By to this , Veritek have created larger ‘bench remaining in its same location, with various providing independent support, photo retailers repair’ facilities, allowing us to offer other facilities opening over the years, the have been empowered to buy whichever swap out solutions and physically company have consolidated its resources, mini-lab they prefer, either taking the repairing the kit on the bench at finding itself in a shiny-new pair of buildings support of the manufacturer’s own service our facilities, in order to stabilise which offer plenty of room to grow.

PIECES OF department, or purchasing independent our business and to allow for See also within this piece, a rundown of EQUIPMENT ON support services from Veritek. growth. We now support current statistics surrounding CONTRACT In our September edition, manufacturers Veritek’s operation. We think it Veritek CEO, Jim Edgar and end users makes for interesting reading. explained how the business alike within the has evolved into other sectors: Healthcare, Ophthalmic, CUSTOMER “While Veritek has remained Digital Cinema and Graphic STAFF For more information visit SUPPORT SUPPORT STAFF MEMBERS focused on its core photo Print markets both in the UK www.veritekglobal.com

9.8/10

76,533

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24/7

PHOTO RETAIL NEWS

Photographer Nick Tolley made the breakthrough into Photo Retail as a Kodak Express member

Since joining the Kodak Express network, photographer Nick Tolley has seen the difference the Kodak brand has made to his business: “The Kodak name itself has been around for decades, so customers relate to the brand. I have a fair number of new customers coming through the door since the Kodak sign is outside my shop.”

However, it has not been branding alone that brought change to Nick Tolley Photography. Established in 1984 Nick has years of experience in the photographic industry and noticed the need to drive his business into a new direction to adapt to changes he noticed in the market.

As a wedding photographer Nick has witnessed first-hand how smartphone technology has changed the way photos are taken and enjoyed nowadays. While years ago the wedding photographer would be the only person to take images at a wedding, nowadays most wedding guests either have a mobile phone or a digital camera they take pictures with themselves.

Tetenal Ltd

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“Today I understand the change in the way photos are taken as an opportunity and new inspiration for my business.”

“I used to do around 60 weddings per year which has now gone down to about 20. Being a professional photographer I used to stay away from anything to do with smartphone photography until I realised there was a business opportunity behind it. Today I understand the change in the way photos are taken as an opportunity and new inspiration for my business.”

After turning his shop around into a retail space under the Kodak brand, offering a range of different photo services alongside his photography business, Nick today appreciates how Kodak helped diversify his business:

“Trading as a Kodak Express store creates a whole new world of commerce within my business which I couldn’t have built up myself.”

TEL: 0116 289 3644

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Contact Tetenal to discuss how you could join the Kodak Express network TEL 0116 289 3644 www.tetenaluk.com

www.pixel.co.uk 25

www.tetenaluk.com

Train to Print

A UNIQUE WEEKEND OF PHOTOGRAPHY AND LEARNING

The PermaJet Print Academy is teaming up with TimeLine Events to offer a weekend event not to be missed.

Taking place on Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th February 2017. You have access to one of the most well preserved Great Western railways in Britain, in a place that many photographers would never have the opportunity to shoot.

The Day Photography event starts at 10am till 4.30pm and includes: • Unprecedented access to various locations with a feast of photographic opportunities.

• Exclusive set scenes including authentic re-enactors creating scenes from a past era of industry & heritage.

• Enjoy a traditional picnic lunch with the team.

In the Evening - one night hotel stay included!

• The De Vere Milton Hill House Hotel, Abingdon is a beautiful Georgian manor house with modern and stylish accommodation - just five miles from Didcot.

• Enjoy a three course evening meal and have the chance to speak with the experts over dinner.

• Free Wi-Fi • Why not bring along your partner for a small additional charge and make use of the spa, swimming pool and gym!

SUNDAY Wake up refreshed & enjoy a full breakfast. Enjoy the 22 acres of tranquil parkland with sweeping drive, landscaped Italian gardens and beautiful vistas.

The Day Tutorial commences at 10am ending at 4.30pm and covers: • Monitor & printer colour management • Importing and saving files • File size & image quality • 8 bit vs. 16 bit images • Getting the best from your digital files • Adjustment layers • Sharpening and interpolation • Using and converting RAW files • Printer problems & solutions • ICC profiles for consistent colour & quality Also Included: • Teas & Coffees throughout the day • Hot and Cold Buffet Lunch • Exclusive Train to Print offers on PermaJet media

"Everything you need to know on how to take & produce exhibition quality prints!"

£295 SPECIAL DEAL

PER PERSON

SATURDAY Based in the spiritual home of the Great Western Railway, Didcot Railway Centre, in Oxfordshire, you will have the chance to learn from photographer Neil Cave of Timeline Events and the PermaJet tutors.

Book Your Place Today!

Call Academy Organiser, Louise Hill on 01789 739200 or e-mail: louiseh@permajet.com

Images: Neil Cave, Timeline Events

www.permajet.com

Meet HP Sprocket

Half Page Horizontal - Sept 16 -Train to Print.indd 1

The new HP Sprocket Photo Printer allows users to transform their favourite smartphone images into bright, colourful and shareable prints.

The new product, which prints 2x3 sticky-back photographs, is pocketsized, making it one of the most portable printers to date.

Some of the key features of the HP Sprocket Photo Printer boasts a range of key features, including the HP Sprocket app, which is free on iOS and Andriod and lets you customise your favourite smartphone and social media images with filters, text, frames and much more; vibrant 2x3” smudge-

CREDITS & CONTACTS

in print

RETAIL SOLUTIONS FOR THE PRINT PROFESSIONAL

proof photograph prints, allowing the user to share or create collages and photo journals with the peel-and-stick back; Bluetooth connection, allowing multiple users to connect with their smartphones or tablets.

The HP Sprocket Photo Printer is available now in white with rose gold accents or black with silver accents and comes ready with a pack of 10 HP ZINK Photo Paper for £99.00.

For more information or to find this product, visit www.hp.co.uk

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

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

Sales: Darren Sinden 01323 819007 darren@lifemediagroup.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published by: LMG SE LTD (Life Media Group) 1 Swan Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2BY

26 www.pixel.co.uk

25/09/2016 19:21

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 2016©

OPEn All HOurS

Find us online: livelinktechnology.net

Award winning photo shops choose livelink web services •

Seamless connection to social media.

Easily upload externally stored images

•

Made to integrate with 3rd party fulfilment services

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responsive screen display scales the page to the viewing device

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Packed with a huge range of photo gift templates

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Edit your content whenever you choose and wherever you are

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Choose from over a dozen themes to create a site to match your needs

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receive orders with or without requiring accounts to be set up first

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MailChimp email account integration to keep your customers informed.

McCormack House, 56A East Street, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 1BS Tel: +44 (0) 20 7183 1411 Email: sales@livelinktechnology.net

www.pixel.co.uk 27

Flipside Trek Series Geared for off-road

The versatile Flipside Trek series protects your camera and adventure gear for a day in the outdoors. Easy access to your gear with Flipside’s patented design allows you to get your gear without putting the bag down.

Effortless carrying with suspension system and straps, plus multiple attachment points allow you to scale up or down the gear you carry outside of your bag.

T E W W

+353 (0) 1 882 9777 sales@tns-connect.com www.tns-connect.com www.lowepro.co.uk

Š2015 DayMen Canada Acquisition ULC.

28 www.pixel.co.uk