ISSUE NO. 929D
19th September 2014
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NO MORE PHONES 4 U, Canon PowerShot G7X, iPHONE 6, PANASONIC’S NEW HIGH-END CAMERA, HASSELBLAD GETS CONNECTED, NEW ICONIC OLYMPUS LENS AND MORE...
Leica Presents New D-Lux Compact Camera
Leica’s new D-Lux (Type 109) model has a larger Four Thirds sensor and improved processor, enabling it to produce higher quality images than any of its predecessors. The built-in Leica DC VarioSummilux 10.9-34mm f/1.7-2.8 ASPH lens has a zoom range equivalent to 24mm-75mm on a 35mm formate sensor. While many of the modes and settings remain the same as they are on the older models, the new D-Lux has a number of new features, including an integrated electronic viewfinder with 2.8mp resolution, 4K video function and an integrated WiFi module, enabling remote control from a smartphoe or tablet. Availability: November
Fast and Flexible: Sony Launches ‘World’s First’ 35mm full frame lens with power zoom capability The new FE PZ 28-135mm F4 G OSS (SELP28135G) lens has been designed for cameras with Sony’s E-mount system. Targeted specifically at filmmakers as well as photographers, the new lens features new ‘Smooth Motion Optics’ addressing three issues of concern for filmmakers: change in angle of view (‘breathing’) while focusing, focus shifts during zoom and movement of the optical axis during zoom. In an industry first, the zoom is powered by the SSM drive to ensure it is smooth and silent for professional movie production. RRP and availability TBC
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SAMSUNG CREATES ‘COMPLETELY NEW COMPACT SYSTEM CAMERA’ The new Samsung NX1 is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera aimed at experts
According to Samsung, the new NX1 will go head to head with professional system DSLRs in terms of image quality, despite being a much smaller and lighter camera. The brand new APS-C format CMOS sensor offers the highest resolution yet for this kind of camera, thanks to its back-illumination technology enabling the light-sensitive photodiodes to capture more light. This means it can deliver high image quality even in low light at the upper end of its ISO 100-25,600 range. Myoung Sup Han, Executive Vice President and Head of Imaging at Samsung, said: “The NX1 represents the pinnacle of Samsung’s advanced photographic
expertise and heralds a new era of intuitive, premium quality photography for all photographers. “With the launch of the NX1, Samsung is re-defining what is possible with a compact system camera, allowing photographers
help with capturing fast-moving subjects, the NX1 has Wide Phase Detection which allows the camera to track subjects across the frame, and Samsung Auto Shot, which predicts the right time to capture a shot. 1/8000 second shutter speed and 15FPS continuous shooting also helps with particularly actionpacked scenes.
“The NX1 represents the pinnacle of Samsung’s advanced photographic expertise”
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Optional Accessories New 50-150mm S ED OIS lens, a high end and professional telephoto lens compatible with the NX1. With its ultra-fast F2.8 maximum aperture and 35mm equivalent 77-231mm focal range, this multipurpose S-series lens is suited to a wide range of scenarios including sport, wildlife and portrait photography.
everywhere to achieve previously unimaginable levels of quality in each and every image they capture.” The camera also houses a brand new DRiMe V Image Processor, designed to achieve superior imaging speed that ‘serious photographers need’. To
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NEWS
WELCOME To Pixel Magazine As the world’s imaging industry continues to descend on Cologne until Sunday, it’s time to take a breather from all the new gadgets, emerging trends and German beer, in order to recap on a very busy week… I’ve been informed that international interest in this year’s photokina trade show is greater than it’s ever been before, with the number of overseas exhibitors rising from 64% in 2012, to 68% this year. As many as 1,070 suppliers from 51 countries have been presenting new products and technologies to the international public at the exhibition centre in Cologne. This year has also seen the highest number of newcomers yet, with 180 first-time exhibitors attending, including GoPro, RED and Blackmagic. In this weekly roundup, I’ve tried to cram in as many of the exciting new products announced by manufacturers in the past few days as possible. These include Samsung’s DSLR-style mirrorless NX1, Panasonic’s high-end compact camera, the LUMIX LX100
and Canon’s highly anticipated EOS 7D Mark II. This is of course just scraping the surface and you will find more information in our monthly print edition. Back in balmy Britain, we’ve got news of our own. There’s been sadness and confusion over the sudden closure of thousands of Phones 4U stores, and JP Distribution has something new in the way of accessories… Enjoy the rest of this unnervingly nice September weather, and don’t forget to email me with any imaging-related news! @pixelmagazine Zoe, Editor
Hasselblad Gets Connected New WiFi enabled H5F-50c gives photographers ‘more freedom than ever’ Hasselblad has unveiled prototypes of its new H5D-50c medium format camera with WiFi, making it possible to fully control the camera and browse/ view images on iPhone/ iPad on location via Phocus Mobile software, without the need for a computer. It also features a ‘Live View’ function, allowing photographers to see and zoom in on a live image on the rear
LCD even when the camera is untethered. Michele Channer, Hasselblad International Sales Director said: “When we launched the new H5D-50c
CMOS camera earlier this year we promised photographers ultimate image quality, regardless of lighting conditions. Now we have developed a unique Wi-Fi
Growing Category: Compact Systems Cameras Analysts at GfK claim CSC market is growing The photo market has gone through tough times in the last year. Compact system cameras (CSC) have suffered too, especially in 2013 with a 31% value decline compared to 2012. Nevertheless, in the past year we have seen CSCs enjoying growth again (+14% Jan-Aug 14 vs same period the year before). On one hand, this market improvement is helped by: • High promotions/ price cuts in the entry level segments. CSC with an average selling price below £300 have enjoyed +26% value growth year to date compared to 2013. • Launches of new, higher end,
CSC models at the end of 2013 and the beginning of 2014. CSCs with an average selling price above £800 have reached new heights with +94% value growth between January 2014 and August 2014, compared to the same period in 2013. On the other hand, the middle range CSCs (£300 - £800) keep suffering and are declining by -21% in 2014 compared to 2013. Looking ahead, we can expect entry level products being driven by price cuts, whilst higher end products will have a harder time from the end of the year when they will be compared with new product launches.
Eyefi Launches Eyefi Cloud New service for photographers by Eyefi The new Eyefi Cloud is a private service that enables photographers to store their photos instantly and access them from any device - whether tablet, smartphone, laptop or smart TV. The idea is to eradicate the time it takes to transfer images from one device to the other. According to the official press release: “Eyefi Cloud serves the needs of photographers who want
their high quality photos accessible in a single unified and organised library on multiple devices.” To use the service, download the Eyefi Mobi app and activate an Eyefi Cloud account. The first three months are free, after which users can extend their membership for £34.99 per year. With the introduction of Eyefi Cloud, the company also sports a new logo and introduces new packaging for its Eyefi Mobi cards.
upgrade for this camera enabling photographers to work unplugged but still very much connected.” New features on the H5D-50c with Wi-Fi include: • Wi-Fi: Control the camera and browse/ view images on iPhone or iPad, even on location. • Live View: See a live image on the rear LCD even when the camera is untethered. • Capture rate: The capture rate now enables 50 captures per minute. • Longest exposure time: The longest shutter speed is now 34 minutes. And no extra black exposure is necessary.
• Film: Now you can use film magazines on the H5D-50c. • Spirit level: Employ the builtin electronic spirit level even in tethered mode. • Display modes: Select different display modes even when the camera is tethered. • ISO and White Balance: Settings now available on viewfinder display. Between January and March 2015 Hasselblad is offering photographers the opportunity to upgrade their H5D-50c model for the new Wi-Fi version for €500 (£394.4)
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NEWS New Benro Monopod Kit for outdoor filmmakers The new Benro Video Monopod Kit will appeal to adventurous moviemakers. Kenro, official distributor of Benro products, has announced the release of a brand new product. The new Video Monopod Kit comes with an S4 head with an ergonomic pan bar handle for smooth panning and tilting; a folding 3-leg base, padded grips and a carry case. The high quality monopod, manufactured from aluminium alloy, is designed to withstand outdoor conditions and facilitate fast set-ups ideal for filming wildlife in locations not suited to a normal tripod. All Benro monopods are covered by the Benro 5 year limited guarantee. Managing Director of Kenro, Paul Kench commented: “These compact and lightweight Benro Video Monopod kits are specifically designed for the latest generation of emerging video cameras and are engineered to support the widest range of users.”
SRP: £203.40 including VAT.
The ‘Iconic Design’ is Back New Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12mm 1:2.0 wide-angle lens is now available with a classic black metal finish Olympus claims its customers cite ‘iconic design’ as a priority when choosing photographic equipment, which explains why the company has now released one of its most popular lenses in black (originally silver) with finely textured casing. Alongside the classic design, other key features include: • light and portable
• Wide angle of 12mm and maximum aperture of 1:2.0 • Dual Super Aspherical lens element • ZERO lens coating to reduce reflections • Fast, quiet autofocus
Optional Accessories The new Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED is compatible with a 46mm diameter filter and matches the optional black Lens Hood (LH-48).
New High-end Compact Camera has unveiled the new from Panasonic Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX100 The flagship premium compact camera will ‘set a new standard for fixed lens photography and videography’, according to Panasonic. Following from the LUMIX LC1 - Panasonic’s first fully manual compact camera released in 2004, the new model features improved technology such as 4/3-inch large High Sensitivity MOS Sensor; over five times larger than its predecessor the LX7. The newly developed Venus Engine features a quad-core CPU,
boosting performance and enabling the high speed signal processing required for rich video recording in 4K. The new Venus Engine has also been developed to feature multiple noise reduction systems such as Multi Process NR, Random Filter and Aperture Filter ensuring the most natural images, even in extreme low-light. The LUMIX LX100 incorporates Panasonic’s newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX f/1.7-F2.8 lens, which allows photographers to achieve better quality images.
One of the key selling points of the new compact camera is the wide variety of advanced functions and controls it has, including an integrated Live View Finder with 2764K-dot equivalent high resolution, dedicated physical rings and dials (such as an aperture ring, control ring, shutter speed dial and exposure compensation dial). The LX100 is also capable of 4K video shooting and a dedicated button on the top of the camera’s body enables instant recording while shooting photos, so users can capture moments as they happen. The ‘4KPhoto mode’ allows users to easily capture a still image from 4K video footage shot on the camera.
Canon PowerShot G7X – New DSLRStyle Compact Camera
The new PowerShot G7X from Canon for ‘serious photographers’
The new Canon PowerShot G7 X has a 1.0-type back-illuminated 20.2mp CMOS sensor and a f/1.8-2.8, 4.2x ultra-wide angle lens packed into a compact metal body. A number of high-end features allow photographers to get creative with their image capturing. For example, the nine-blade aperture enables photographers to create an artistic background blur, while the sensor helps capture images with low noise even at ISO 12800. Canon claims the DIGIC 6 is its most powerful image processor yet, helping
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users capture high-speed situations with minimal blur. According to Canon, the G7 X ‘offers a photographic experience comparable to that of the company’s DSLRs’. The key to simulating the ‘professional experience’ is control and customisability. A lens control ring gives the photographer full manual control, while Touch AF allows auto focus with a single touch to
the tillable touch screen. The G7 X is also being marketed as the ideal companion for budding filmmakers. Manual Movie allows a range of setting to be adjuster during filming, again giving the user heightened creative control. The camera records Full HD 60p and benefits from Advanced
Noise Reduction to keep footage clear, while the 5-axis Intelligent IS keeps shots steady. WiFi and NFC enable instant saying and uploading to the Cloud Canon said: “The PowerShot G7 X joins the popular PowerShot G1 X Mark II in Canon’s growing premium compact camera line up. As demand for large sensor, expert compact cameras continues to grow Canon will further strengthen its range in future by developing models that incorporate large sensors and highmagnification zoom lenses.” RRP: £579.99 Availability:October 2014
No More Phones 4U As Phones 4U prepares to go into administration, we ask what this means for the UK’s mobile phone market Despite being a profitable business with a turnover of £1bn and profits of £105m, Phones 4U has been forced into administration after losing two major contracts: Vodafone in September, and EE a few days ago. The firm has claimed EE’s move was ‘a complete shock’. As many as 5,596 jobs are now at risk across the country. “If mobile network operators decline to supply us, we do not have a business,” said Phones 4U boss David Kassler. A spokesperson for EE said the decision not to renew its contract with Phones 4U was “driven by developments in the marketplace that have called into question the long term viability of the Phones 4U business”. The spokesperson warned that
the loss of Phones 4U will ultimately result in less competition, leading to less choice and higher prices for mobile customers in the UK. Mr Kassler said it was a “very sad day” for both customers and staff. Kamal Ahmed, Business Editor at the BBC, wrote: “The collapse of Phones 4U is about much more than the demise of a high street chain that sells mobile phones and the possible sad loss of thousands of jobs. “According to the profitable retailer, it is actually about a reduction in competition. Mobile contracts for consumers will now - even more - be dominated by
the mobile operators themselves direct selling to customers.” The recently merged Dixons Carphone, which used to have Phones 4U concessions in-store, is now the only major place where customers can go to compare prices between different operators. According to Alistair Davies, an analyst at Investec, Dixons Carphone could benefit from the collapse of Phones 4U, to the tune of £225m in annual revenue. This could ‘represent a £45m opportunity for forecast’ profits, according to his calculations. Is this a sign of things to come on the UK High Street? Post your thoughts @pixelmagazine
New Optics Accessories Unveiled JP Distribution has announced new products by Blackrapid Two new accessories are available from JP Distribution: a Blackrapid Binocular Strap, and a Blackrapid Backpack Strap. The Binocular Strap attaches to the straps of a double strap, allowing users to hang their binoculars comfortably while still carrying two cameras. When not carrying any cameras, photographers can use the included neck strap as a standalone solution. When not in use, the Binocular Strap can
be stowed in the included microfibre carry sack. SRP: £30 inc. VAT Included: The strap includes a FastenR (FR-3) and ConnectR (CR-2). The Backpack Strap gives any backpack a camera sling function. Attaching to the shoulder straps of an existing backpack and going
diagonally across the torso, any backpack can be customised with BlackRapid’s sling strap functionality. When not in use the Backpack Strap can be stowed in the included microfibre carry sack. SRP: £35 inc. VAT Included: The strap includes a FastenR (FR-3) and ConnectR (CR-2).
NEWS Extreme Cases for Extreme Locations Two market leaders, Lowpro and Underwater Kinetics, have joined forces to produce a new range of protective camera cases that stand up against tough conditions. The new Hardside Series cases are watertight for at least 30 minutes in up to 1m of water, and offer ‘100% protection against the ingress of dust and sand’, according to the official press release. The cases come with a tough outer shell and a removable soft-sided insert with a padded divider system to keep equipment organised. They also have tuck-away backpack straps for photographers who want to go hands-free. Loraine Morgan, Senior Marketing Manager at Lowepro UK, said: “We knew it would take a lot of research and development to produce a game changing product in this category. “To do it right, we chose Underwater Kinetics, the leading manufacturer of ultra-rugged dry cases, to offer a truly airtight solution. The long-lasting and durable silicone gasket and seal is virtually maintenance free, unlike other hard cases, and restricts all moisture and debris from getting into the camera case.” The series consists of three cases: • Hardside 400 Photo for DSLR kits, SRP £215.00 • Hardside 300 Photo for DSLR kits – SRP £170.00 • Hardside 200 Video for action cam kits, SRP £145.00
Is Apple’s ‘Best Camera’ Even Better on iPhone 6? New iPhone6 has ‘improved’ camera technology
According to Apple, the iSight camera featured on the phone everybody’s talking about - the iPhone 6, is ‘packed with new technologies to help everyone take great photos’.
New features include: • Option to capture 1080p HD at 60 fps, 240-fps slo-mo • Time-lapse video
• Large Retina HD display • Improved face detection • New image signal processor • FaceTime HD camera that ‘ captures 81% more light’
Apple will be releasing two versions of the smartphone: the bigger iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6s, a smaller, lower cost model with fewer features. While
the iPhone 6s has digital image stabilisation, the iPhone 6 goes one step further with optical image stabilisation system, minimising blur and vibration to a higher level. Pre-orders started on September 12 and the devices are expected to ship on the 19th RRP: £539 (16GB)
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NEWS ‘4K Photo’ Firmware Update on LUMIX GH4
Seriously Compact - New LUMIX DMC-GM5 The new camera from Panasonic is the smallest interchangeable lens camera to have a Live View Finder
Panasonic has announced the release of a firmware update on the flagship GH4. The new firmware update will enable photographers to select frames from 4K video something Panasonic believes is the future of photography. With ‘4K Photo’, the best recording format, picture quality setting and brightness level are automatically set to the optimum parameters for photo shooting. The Loop Rec function can be used to automatically save the five newest 2-minute video files, so users can keep the camera recording without worrying about the capacity of the SDXC/SDHC memory card. The new firmware programme is scheduled to be released at the beginning of October 2014.
The magnesium alloy body houses a 1,166K-dot equivalent Live View Finder with approximately 0.92x / 0.46x magnification and 100% field of view. The GM5 also boasts a range of AF functions, including a new Face/Eye Detection AF, Low Light AF, Pinpoint AF and One-shot AF. This is made easier to use by a touch-control 3 inch high resolution screen that can be used to focus and release the shutter.
In terms of video, the GM5 is capable of Full HD 1920 x 1080 60p recording in AVCHD progressive and MP4 stereo sound. The GM5 features a new video recording option called “Snap Movie Mode”. Users can record video for short period of time (2/4/6/8 sec) as they shoot “moving photos”. It is also easy to share them using Panasonic Image App and It is also possible to connect them later even with a
The new EOS 7D Mark II is ‘the ultimate DSLR to caption action other cameras simply miss’, according to Canon. It builds on the performance of its predecessor, the EOS D7 and harnesses more of the technologies found in the professional EOS-ID X. It has a new 20.2mp APS-C CMOS sensor with a native ISO 100-16,000 range expandable to ISO 51,200. Exposure is helped along by the high resolution 150k
pixel RGB+IR metering sensor and flicker detection - an innovative addition for Canon. The new model also boasts customisable body controls and a new viewfinder providing 100% coverage. Key Selling Points: • Capture fast action • Product ‘exhibition quality’ photographs • Manual and creative control
Backpacks for Heavy Loads
CREDITS & CONTACTS
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Availability: mid November Colours: black and red synthetic leather
Need for Speed: New Canon EOS 7D Mark II Canon’s latest DSLR has been rebuilt to deliver speed
You can find out more by visiting http://panasonic.jp/support/ global/cs/dsc/
Lowepro has launched a brand new version of its high capacity Pro Trekker Series designed to make a lighter load of heavy camera equipment. Loraine Morgan, Senior Marketing Manager at Lowepro UK, said: “Trekker is our largest capacity backpack range, so our number one goal in refreshing the design
variety of interval fade effects and music. The GM5 also incorporates the popular Creative Control mode with a total of 22 fascinating filter effects in addition to Time Lapse Shot, Stop Motion Animation or Clear Retouch. For more manual photography, Time (long exposure) function is newly added that lets photographers set exposure time max. 60 sec.
was to improve the premium suspension system and offer a best-in-class solution for carrying a heavy load.”
Key Features: • New ActivLift System harness designed to mimic the natural curve
Editor: Zoe Thomas 01323 437946 zoe@pixel.co.uk
Subscriptions: Linda Grace 01323 411601 linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk
Group Director: Simon Skinner 01323 433700 simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk
Production Manager: Harriet Weston 01323 411601 harriet@lifemediagroup.co.uk
Operations Director: Clare Fermor 01323 411601 clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk
Design Assistant: Amy Watson 01323 411601 amy@lfiemediagroup.co.uk
Published by: LMG SE LTD (Life Media Group) Park View House 19 The Avenue, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 3YD 01323 411 601
Editorial Consultant: Damien Demolder 01376 339240 damien@damiendemolder.com
Accounts: Amelia Wellings 01323 411601 amelia@lifemediagroup.co.uk
Accessories: the EOS 7D Mark II supports a number of accessories, including a new battery grip that enables longer, more stable shooting throughout the day. RRP: £1,599.99 body only Availability: November
New Lowepro Pro Trekker Series - ‘Climb it, trek it & shoot it’
of the back, transfer more weight from waist to hips and make it easier to adjust the length to each individual body shape. • MaxFit System built to protect big lenses with adjustable compartments for accessories.
Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield 01323 411601 lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk
• Cinematic options
RRP: Pro Trekker 650 AW UK SRP £365.00 Pro Trekker 450 AW UK SRP £325.00 Lens Trekker 600 AW III UK SRP £255.00
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