Digital Camera Review
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
BlueCam Free - Camera App for iPad
BlueCam Free is a new camera app for the Apple iPad. Providing an alternative to the built-in Camera app, BlueCam Free offers remote control ability, 9x-153x digital zoom for photos & videos, photo & video timers, photo & video filters, auto and manual uploading to Facebook/Twitter/Flickr and many other features. As the name suggests, the app can be downloaded from iTunes free of charge.
Press Release BlueCam Free for iPad 1.0 just released Austin based Mother Tucker, LLC today introduces BlueCam Free for iPad 1.0, a new camera app. Designed specifically for iPads, BlueCam Free for iPad offers remote control ability, 9x-153x zoom for photos and videos, auto and manual uploading to Facebook, Twitter and Flickr, photo and video timers, photo and video filters and many other features. The app also features live preview on remote while recording videos as well as Burst Photo Timers and more.
Austin, Texas - Austin, Texas - Mother Tucker, LLC has announced BlueCam Free for iPad 1.0, a new camera app for iPads. Designed originally for iPads, BlueCam Free for iPad gives users an alternative to the built-in Camera app which has remote control ability, 9x-153x zoom for photos & videos, photo & video timers, photo & video filters, auto and manual uploading to Facebook/Twitter/Flickr and many other features.
The most significant features are allowing a remote control user to: view a live camera preview; voice chat; and view a Google map with a video map pin.
Camera Features:
* Pinch Zoom Preview to zoom
* Tap Preview to Take a Photo
* Double Tap Preview to Start/Stop Recording
* Press 1 Finger on Preview to set Auto Focus
* Press 2 Fingers on Preview to set Exposure
* 9X to 153X zoom depending on your selected Preset
* Zoom while recording videos
* Live preview on remote while recording videos
* iOS5 accelerated zoomed image capture (unfiltered photos only)
* EXIF in all still images
* Resolution/Flash/Torch/Focus/Exposure/WhiteBalance Controls
* Burst Mode - Take 2-4 burst shots with a tap
* Photo Timers
* Video Timers
* ‘About to Shoot’ audio alerts for both Photo/Video Timers
* Burst Photo Timers - Take unlimited burst shots by creating a Timer with a “Delay” of 0 seconds
* Anti-Shake - Use your Accelerometer to take photos only when there is no shaking detected
* Auto Upload your Videos & Photos to Flickr, Facebook or Twitter in the background
* Auto Save - Keep recording & shooting while photos are saved in the background
* Background Uploading
* Geotag Flickr Videos & Photos
* Reticles [Scope, Rectangle, Rule Of Thirds] with color choice of [Black, White, Red and Green]
* Button Colors [Black, White, Red and Green]
* JPEG Quality Control - Allows compression of photos for faster uploading
* Twitter Client
* Facebook Client
* In-App Mail “PRO pack” In-App Purchase:
* Live Filters for recording video and capturing still images (Saturation, Contrast, Brightness, Black&White, Sepia, Vignette, Cartoon, Gamma, Unsharpen, Gaussian Blur, Emboss, Smooth Toon, Sobel Edge detection, Canny Edge detection, Prewitt Edge Detection, Harris Corner Detection, Crosshatch, Swirl, Buldge, Pinch, Stretch…)
* Removes Adds Remote-to-Camera Features:
* Voice Chat
* View a Camera’s Live Camera Preview
* View a Map with a Video Pin of the Camera user
* Tap the “Remote” preview and the “Camera” will snap a shot and send you the photo
* Double Tap the “Remote” preview and the “Camera” will Start/Stop recording
* Adjust a Cameras’s zoom level
* Create Timers on a Camera Remote-to-Remote Features:
* Voice Chat
* View a Map of other users location
* Tap the “Remote” preview to transfer Videos & Photos App Camera Roll Features (Remote and Camera):
* Multiple Selection Support
* Trim Videos
* Playback Videos
* Aviary photo editing/filter library
* Upload, Mail and Save multiple Videos & Photos at once
* Reorder Videos & Photos
* Edit upload locations with a Google map
* Add Videos & Photos from your device’s camera roll
* Swipe through full screen view of Videos & Photos Device Requirements:
* Compatible with iPad
* iOS 5.0 or higher
* 7.1 MB Hard Drive space
Pricing and Availability:
BlueCam Free for iPad is available for free worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Photo & Video category.
Mother Tucker: http://www.mothertuckerllc.com
BlueCam Free for iPad 1.0:http://www.mothertuckerllc.com/bluecamipad/bluecamipad.html
Download from iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bluecam-free-for-ipad/id524177599
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adGPCnex4jQ
Located in Austin, TX, Mother Tucker, LLC was founded in 2009 by Raymond Perez and Nicole Tucker Perez. Mother Tucker, LLC develops software for iOS devices including many that were featured by Apple. Copyright (C) 2012 Mother Tucker, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, iPod and iPad are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries.
Saturday, 12 May 2012
Olympus OM-D Digital Camera review
Our initial impressions of this camera were very promising, and after having spent a lot more time with it now, we're happy to report that its charms still manage to hold our attention for the most part, especially now we have had a chance to fully examine image quality.
While its retro looks may not appeal to everyone, for original OM users, it will certainly be a treat. Weatherproofing and ruggedness of the camera mean it feels as if it is built to last after taking some serious abuse, so we can also see street photographers falling in love with this camera.
Introducing an in-built EVF to this camera elevates it status above the PEN, taking it (despite Olympus's own protestations) almost into semi-pro territory.
The wide range of compatible Micro Four Thirds lenses now available on the market - not forgetting those made by Panasonic and third party manufacturers such as Sigma, make purchasing a Micro Four Thirds camera a very interesting proposition. It's when using different optics that the versatility of the OM-D is truly revealed.
It is of course an expensive proposition at £1, 149 for the single lens kit or £999 body-only, but when you consider all of the improvements that have been made, we think the extra expense when compared with an E-P3 is just about worth it.
It's also worth pointing out that one of its biggest rivals, the Fuji X Pro1, is currently retailing for around £1,500 body only, making the E-M5 suddenly seem more attractive.
However, having said all of that, we can't help but feel that the E-M5 is a little bit 'unfinished'. As this is the first camera in the new OM-D line-up, it seems as if there is some work to do to make this camera live up to its full potential. For example, the plastic buttons feel like an afterthought.
Olympus has been guilty of this before, with the original PEN (E-P1) being superseded by the E-P2 only a few months after, packed with better features. So, for that reason, we'll be very excited to see how Olympus develops this line going forward, and will be watching with anticipation.
We liked
The excellent viewfinder shows a marked improvements on those we've used before, while new art filters and variations on existing ones show how creative you can be with this camera. Image quality, in certain situations, is excellent and comparable to DSLR quality, while being confined within a much more portable device.We disliked
There are still a few little bugbears that could do with being ironed out. For such an expensive camera, the buttons could have been metal to add a better finish, while some of them were also a little slow and unresponsive.Verdict
Olympus has delivered a fantastic camera, which, along with its premium CSC cohorts, has the potential to be a game-changer, stealing focus from certain areas of the DSLR market. There's a lot to love about the OM-D, especially the great image quality and its retro appeal - it will be interesting to see how sales perform.Click here for more.
Friday, 11 May 2012
Inspirational Pictures - Returning to the same ocean. (Karachi, Pakistan.)
Taken during the May 2007 Karachi riots in which 45 innocent people were killed by animals who live amongst us.
This city often goes through days like these, and it's just maddening. Quite a compliment that we have the calmness of the arabian sea all along us.
We don't deserve the ocean, we need it. May 12th 2007
Click here for more from Ali Khurshid
Fujfilm announces XP170 waterproof compact
Fujifilm has announced the FinePix XP170, an updated rugged, waterproof
compact camera, featuring Wi-Fi to allow wireless image transfer to
Android or iOS smartphones and tablets. The XP170 features a 14MP CMOS
sensor that can shoot at up to 10fps, mounted behind a 5x, 28-140mm
equivalent zoom lens. It is shockproof from 2m (6.5ft), and waterproof
to 10m (33ft). The stand-out feature is its wireless image transfer
function that allows images to be sent to smartphones and tablets,
making it easy to upload to the internet.
Valhalla, N.Y., May 8, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of the all new waterproof FinePix XP170 digital camera that combines rugged protection and durability with a new innovative Wireless Image Transfer function that allows users to wirelessly connect to their smartphone or tablet and then upload images to the Internet for online sharing. The FinePix XP170 is the latest edition in Fujifilm’s bestselling line of waterproof cameras for three years in a row*.
The FinePix XP170 digital camera is ideally suited for all of your outdoor adventures because it features Four-Way Protection that is Waterproof to 33ft (10M), Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. With all this protection, you are certain to get your most daring shots, all with an extremely attractive camera body that is easy to use. The FinePix XP170 also delivers a bright LCD screen, fast auto focus speeds, comfortable grip, and advanced functionality for all weather conditions.
The new FinePix XP170 lets users capture higher quality pictures they would otherwise miss with a smartphone camera that cannot be exposed to the elements, wet weather and cold temperatures. And with the new Wireless Image Transfer feature, users can still share those great outdoor images quickly and easily.
“Sharing photos online has become the best and fastest way to show your family and friends your favorite images, and the versatile and durable FinePix XP170 lets users capture images in more places, and then offers easy sharing with its innovative Wireless Image Transfer function,” said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “With its Four-Way Protection, the XP170 can become your go-to camera that you aren’t afraid to get wet, be dropped, or even frozen or covered in dirt and mud – it will still deliver fantastic photos and HD movies every time.”
The new durable FinePix XP170 features the powerful and performance-driven 14-MegaPixel CMOS sensor, faster start-up and shot-to-shot times, up to 10 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting, a 2.7” anti-reflective, high-contrast LCD that has been brightened for clear viewing even in direct sunlight and underwater, and the high-precision, FUJINON 5x wide angle optical zoom lenses (28-140mm) with a reinforced hardened glass lens barrier and water repellent coating.
Wireless Image Transfer
The FinePix XP170’s innovative Wireless Image Transfer function allows users to connect their smartphone or tablet to the XP170 and upload high-quality images to social networking sites like YouTube and Facebook in seconds.
The FinePix XP170 can be connected to any Android™ smartphone or tablet, or the iPhone™ or iPad™ - all users have to do is download the free application “FUJIFILM Photo Receiver” to their device, then follow the simple instructions to get connected. To start uploading, users press the XP170’s connect button to join to a device, then the images will be transferred to the Android™ smartphone / tablet or iPhone™ / iPad™ for uploading to social networking sites.
HD Capability
The FinePix XP170 offers stunning movies in full 1080p HD – even underwater – with sound at 30fps with one-touch ease. Many consumers are happy to enjoy HD movies on their PC, but with the optional HD Player accessory kit, with wireless remote control (HDMI cable not included), families can gather around their home HDTV to enjoy amazingly detailed stills and high resolution movie playback.
Advanced Image Stabilization
The XP170 has a powerful CMOS-shift Image Stabilization (CIS) system. CIS works as the photo is being taken as it combines a mechanically stabilized sensor with high ISO to combat camera/hand shake and subject movement for improved low light shooting. The result is an expanded range of shooting situations where the camera can be used without the need of a tripod or other support. With CIS working in the background, you can capture sharp, colorful scenes and portraits underwater or at night.
Tracking Auto Focus (AF)
Created specifically to capture an action shot, the AF function tracks fast moving subjects so they don’t escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed. When users fully press the shutter button, the subject will be in the center of the photo in perfect focus.
In addition to these innovations, the XP170 is also loaded with the following features:
An accessory kit for the new XP170 containing an adjustable float strap, protective silicone skin and a neoprene sports case will also be available at launch.
For complete camera specifications, please go to: http://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/xp/finepix_xp170/index.html
FUJIFILM MAKES SHARING IMAGES EASY WITH THE ALL NEW RUGGED AND WATERPROOF FINEPIX XP170 DIGITAL CAMERA
Valhalla, N.Y., May 8, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of the all new waterproof FinePix XP170 digital camera that combines rugged protection and durability with a new innovative Wireless Image Transfer function that allows users to wirelessly connect to their smartphone or tablet and then upload images to the Internet for online sharing. The FinePix XP170 is the latest edition in Fujifilm’s bestselling line of waterproof cameras for three years in a row*.
The FinePix XP170 digital camera is ideally suited for all of your outdoor adventures because it features Four-Way Protection that is Waterproof to 33ft (10M), Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. With all this protection, you are certain to get your most daring shots, all with an extremely attractive camera body that is easy to use. The FinePix XP170 also delivers a bright LCD screen, fast auto focus speeds, comfortable grip, and advanced functionality for all weather conditions.
The new FinePix XP170 lets users capture higher quality pictures they would otherwise miss with a smartphone camera that cannot be exposed to the elements, wet weather and cold temperatures. And with the new Wireless Image Transfer feature, users can still share those great outdoor images quickly and easily.
“Sharing photos online has become the best and fastest way to show your family and friends your favorite images, and the versatile and durable FinePix XP170 lets users capture images in more places, and then offers easy sharing with its innovative Wireless Image Transfer function,” said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “With its Four-Way Protection, the XP170 can become your go-to camera that you aren’t afraid to get wet, be dropped, or even frozen or covered in dirt and mud – it will still deliver fantastic photos and HD movies every time.”
The new durable FinePix XP170 features the powerful and performance-driven 14-MegaPixel CMOS sensor, faster start-up and shot-to-shot times, up to 10 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting, a 2.7” anti-reflective, high-contrast LCD that has been brightened for clear viewing even in direct sunlight and underwater, and the high-precision, FUJINON 5x wide angle optical zoom lenses (28-140mm) with a reinforced hardened glass lens barrier and water repellent coating.
Wireless Image Transfer
The FinePix XP170’s innovative Wireless Image Transfer function allows users to connect their smartphone or tablet to the XP170 and upload high-quality images to social networking sites like YouTube and Facebook in seconds.
The FinePix XP170 can be connected to any Android™ smartphone or tablet, or the iPhone™ or iPad™ - all users have to do is download the free application “FUJIFILM Photo Receiver” to their device, then follow the simple instructions to get connected. To start uploading, users press the XP170’s connect button to join to a device, then the images will be transferred to the Android™ smartphone / tablet or iPhone™ / iPad™ for uploading to social networking sites.
HD Capability
The FinePix XP170 offers stunning movies in full 1080p HD – even underwater – with sound at 30fps with one-touch ease. Many consumers are happy to enjoy HD movies on their PC, but with the optional HD Player accessory kit, with wireless remote control (HDMI cable not included), families can gather around their home HDTV to enjoy amazingly detailed stills and high resolution movie playback.
Advanced Image Stabilization
The XP170 has a powerful CMOS-shift Image Stabilization (CIS) system. CIS works as the photo is being taken as it combines a mechanically stabilized sensor with high ISO to combat camera/hand shake and subject movement for improved low light shooting. The result is an expanded range of shooting situations where the camera can be used without the need of a tripod or other support. With CIS working in the background, you can capture sharp, colorful scenes and portraits underwater or at night.
Tracking Auto Focus (AF)
Created specifically to capture an action shot, the AF function tracks fast moving subjects so they don’t escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed. When users fully press the shutter button, the subject will be in the center of the photo in perfect focus.
In addition to these innovations, the XP170 is also loaded with the following features:
- 360° Motion Panorama Mode: Automatically creates a stunning panoramic (horizontal or vertical) picture.
- Scene Recognition Auto (SR AUTO): This mode intelligently identifies the scene type and necessary shooting conditions to optimize picture perfect potential.
- Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal:To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the XP170 uses Fujifilm’s latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 6 faces simultaneously. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.
- Li-ion Rechargeable Battery: The XP170 has an extended-life rechargeable Li-ion battery with charger for up to 300 shots per charge that allows users to shoot all of their images without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of their trip.
An accessory kit for the new XP170 containing an adjustable float strap, protective silicone skin and a neoprene sports case will also be available at launch.
For complete camera specifications, please go to: http://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/xp/finepix_xp170/index.html
Leica M-Monochrom Hands-on Preview
DPReview have done a hands on preview which you can now find online. Summarised here:
Our response, when we first heard about the M-Monochrom was not dissimilar to those Leica users who've heard the rumors about the camera - falling somewhere between surprise and incredulity.
However, spend some time with the M-M and, in its own reality-impervious way, it begins to make a strange kind of sense.
The level of detail the camera captures is nothing short of astonishing and, as we found when shooting the M9, there's a real pleasure to be found in having to think harder about the shots you're taking. Getting the best out of the Monochrom takes practise (perhaps a lifetime's worth) and processing, but willfully embracing that challenge seems to be part of what this camera is about.
Is it easier, more flexible and many times less expensive to shoot in color and make black-and-white conversions (albeit at a cost of the pixel-level detail the M-Monochrom offers)? Of course it is. But then there are many cameras that offer greater capability, flexibility and (in most respects), image quality than the M9 (at a fraction of the cost), but that doesn't make the Leica any less desirable.
Click for more.
Our response, when we first heard about the M-Monochrom was not dissimilar to those Leica users who've heard the rumors about the camera - falling somewhere between surprise and incredulity.
However, spend some time with the M-M and, in its own reality-impervious way, it begins to make a strange kind of sense.
The level of detail the camera captures is nothing short of astonishing and, as we found when shooting the M9, there's a real pleasure to be found in having to think harder about the shots you're taking. Getting the best out of the Monochrom takes practise (perhaps a lifetime's worth) and processing, but willfully embracing that challenge seems to be part of what this camera is about.
Is it easier, more flexible and many times less expensive to shoot in color and make black-and-white conversions (albeit at a cost of the pixel-level detail the M-Monochrom offers)? Of course it is. But then there are many cameras that offer greater capability, flexibility and (in most respects), image quality than the M9 (at a fraction of the cost), but that doesn't make the Leica any less desirable.
Price | |
---|---|
MSRP | $7,950.00 / £6,120 (inc VAT) |
Body type | |
Body type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless |
Body material | Magnesium alloy with synthetic leather trim. Top deck and baseplate in brass with black chrome finish |
Sensor | |
Max resolution | 5212 x 3472 |
Other resolutions | 3840 x 2592, 2592 x 1728, 1728 x 1152, 1280 x 846 |
Image ratio w:h | 3:2 |
Effective pixels | 18.0 megapixels |
Sensor photo detectors | 18.5 megapixels |
Sensor size | Full frame (36 x 24 mm) |
Sensor type | CCD |
Color space | sRGB hardwired |
Image | |
ISO | Auto, Pull 160, 320, 400, 500, 640, 800, 1000, 1250, 1600, 2000, 2500, 3200, 4000, 5000, 6400, 8000, 10000 |
White balance presets | 0 |
Custom white balance | No |
Image stabilization | No |
Uncompressed format | RAW |
JPEG quality levels | Fine, Standard |
File format |
|
Image parameters |
|
Optics & Focus | |
Digital zoom | No |
Manual focus | Yes |
Lens mount | Leica M mount |
Focal length multiplier | 1× |
Screen / viewfinder | |
Articulated LCD | Fixed |
Screen size | 2.5" |
Screen dots | 230,000 |
Touch screen | No |
Screen type | TFT color LCD with a sapphire glass LCD cover |
Live view | No |
Viewfinder type | Optical (rangefinder) |
Viewfinder magnification | 0.68× |
Photography features | |
Minimum shutter speed | 32 sec |
Maximum shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
Built-in flash | No |
External flash | Yes (Hot-shoe) |
Flash modes | Front Curtain, Rear Curtain, Slow sync |
Flash X sync speed | 1/180 sec |
Continuous drive | Yes (2 fps) |
Self-timer | Yes (2 or 12 sec) |
Metering modes |
|
Exposure compensation | ±3 EV (at 1/3 EV steps) |
AE Bracketing | ±2 (3, 5, 7 frames ) |
WB Bracketing | No |
Videography features | |
Microphone | None |
Speaker | None |
Storage | |
Storage types | SD/SDHC card |
Storage included | None |
Connectivity | |
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
HDMI | No |
Wireless | None |
Remote control | No |
Physical | |
Environmentally sealed | No |
Battery | Battery Pack |
Battery description | Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery & charger |
Weight (inc. batteries) | 600 g (1.32 lb / 21.16 oz) |
Dimensions | 139 x 80 x 37 mm (5.47 x 3.15 x 1.46") |
Other features | |
Orientation sensor | Yes |
Timelapse recording | No |
GPS | None |
Click for more.
Pentax Q price drops by 40% in the US
The price of the
Pentax Q has dropped significantly in the US, after already being
reduced in the UK, perhaps suggesting that a new CSC from the company is
imminent.
Pentax introduced the Q around a year ago, which is the world's smallest interchangeable lens camera.
Its tiny proportions did not belie a tiny asking price, with many balking at the £600 ($800) asking price, especially when considering the small sensor on board the camera, which is similar in size to a standard compact camera.
Since then, Pentax has admitted that it has been disappointed by sales of the Q, and more recently announced the Pentax K-01, which is much larger, features an APS-C size sensor and a lens mount compatible with its existing line-up of K-mount lenses.
At the time of the K-01 launch, Pentax assured that the Q was still very much a priority, and they were committed to the line. However, last week rumours began circulating that Ricoh Pentax would announce a new low-price mirrorless camera into the market.
Perhaps keen to take away some of the glory of the Nikon 1 V1 and J1 success (which also utilise a small sensor), the new camera could conceivably be offered at a more realistic asking price for the beginner market.
2012 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for compact system cameras, with popular new products already being outed by Fujifilm and Olympus and Canon apparently set to finally enter the market.
Pentax introduced the Q around a year ago, which is the world's smallest interchangeable lens camera.
Its tiny proportions did not belie a tiny asking price, with many balking at the £600 ($800) asking price, especially when considering the small sensor on board the camera, which is similar in size to a standard compact camera.
Disappointed
Since then, Pentax has admitted that it has been disappointed by sales of the Q, and more recently announced the Pentax K-01, which is much larger, features an APS-C size sensor and a lens mount compatible with its existing line-up of K-mount lenses.
At the time of the K-01 launch, Pentax assured that the Q was still very much a priority, and they were committed to the line. However, last week rumours began circulating that Ricoh Pentax would announce a new low-price mirrorless camera into the market.
Perhaps keen to take away some of the glory of the Nikon 1 V1 and J1 success (which also utilise a small sensor), the new camera could conceivably be offered at a more realistic asking price for the beginner market.
2012 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for compact system cameras, with popular new products already being outed by Fujifilm and Olympus and Canon apparently set to finally enter the market.
via PhotoRumors
Holgarizer: A Free Photoshop Action That Emulates a Toy Camera Look
A few years ago, graphic designer Grey Jay was asked by a company to create a Photoshop action that would emulate a “toy camera” look for photos.
He came up with an action he calls the “Holgarizer” and, after some tweaking and adjusting, has made it freely available to the public. If a messy cross-processed look is what you’re after, Jay’s filter does the job.
You can download the ZIP file here.
Holgarizer by Grey Jay
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