Phottix Odin for Canon firmware update plus ods update.

New firmware for the Phottix Odin TTL Trigger for Canon is available. v1.24 for the original Odin and v2.03 for the Odin 1.5 can be downloaded at the links below. That does this firmware offer:

Lightroom 4.4 Now Available

Lightroom 4.4 is now available as a final release on Adobe.com and through the update mechanism in Lightroom 4.  The goal of this release is to provide additional camera raw support, lens profile support and address bugs that were introduced in previous releases of Lightroom.

Frimware update for the NIkon D600 and D800

 
Nikon has released a whole slew up firmware updates for their cameras. Here are the links for the Nikon D600 firmware update and the Nikon D800 firmware update.

Nik Collection price drop.

I am a huge fan of the Nik Software and use the Silver EFX Pro2 for all of my black and white conversions. This is a great deal and I cannot recommend giving this software a try enough. It is fantastic!

New Canon EOS Rebel T5i Digital SLR

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to introduce a new flagship model to its popular EOS Rebel line, the EOS Rebel T5i Digital SLR Camera. The incredible image quality and performance starts with an 18 megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and Canon's superb DIGIC 5 Image Processor. Combined with an extensive ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to 25600 in H mode), the EOS Rebel T5i boasts crisp, detailed images, even in low-light conditions. With a continuous shooting speed of up to 5.0 frames per second (fps) united with 9 all cross-type AF focus points, the new EOS Rebel T5i allows photographers the opportunity to shoot with ease, even in challenging shooting situations.

Setting Up the Shot - Tim Riley

Last week I had the chance to shoot with Tim Riley again. We have shot together many times over the years and it was a blast yet again.

Here is one of my favorites from the shoot along with a set up schematic after the jump...

WESTCOTT LAUNCHES LIGHTAPALOOZA 2013

Westcott, one of the world’s largest lighting and light modifier companies, today announced a lighting celebration like none other. Westcott’s team is proud to announce the launch of Lightapalooza, an exciting year-long promotion for all lighting fanatics, creatives and photo enthusiasts. There’ll be giveaways galore featuring weekly contests, hundreds of prizes and one jaw-dropping Grand Prize valued over $15,000!

The RF- 550D Macro LED Ring Flash from Travor

The RF- 550D is a well-made and inexpensive Macro LED Ring Flash from Travor. The flash unit consists of the main power control unit and the wired macro ring head which has 48 LEDs arranged in two rows around the ring. The macro flash ships with the control unit, flash head, stand, 8 adapter rings for mounting the flash head to your lens, and four different diffuser rings. Two of the diffuser rings are for color corrections (one is amber and one is blue) the other two offer two different levels of straight diffusion.

New Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f4.5-5.6G ED VR

Nikon Zooms In on Ultra Telephoto Versatility with the AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

Newest High-Power NIKKOR Lens Offers Photographers the Long Reach and Exceptional Clarity Needed in the Field and on the Sidelines

Nikon Inc. introduced the AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR, a versatile FX-format telephoto zoom lens designed to provide top-class performance and a long reach for a variety of shooting scenarios. Sporting a long 5x zoom range, the 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G is capable of capturing vivid colors with exquisite sharpness, whether shooting stills or HD video. Ideal for sports and nature photography, the addition of the AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR reaffirms Nikon’s commitment to providing a stable of lensing options for all types of photographers.

New from Nikon: COOLPIX A and P330

Nikon's Newest Advanced Performance COOLPIX Cameras Provide Incredible Quality and Control for Those Serious About Capturing Stunning Images

 

World Renowned Optics and a Host of Innovative Technologies, Including the Use of a DX-Format Image Sensor, Provide Users with Premier Compacts for Shooting and Sharing 

 

MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. announced two new advanced performance COOLPIX cameras, built for the customer seeking the best image quality possible with the convenience and ease-of-use of a compact camera. The Nikon COOLPIX A is the first COOLPIX to incorporate a DX-format sensor, similar to those found in many of Nikon’s coveted D-SLRs, which provides the highest image quality possible from a compact point-and-shoot. Additionally, the small yet powerful COOLPIX P330 fits comfortably into a shirt pocket, yet gives users the confidence to capture beautiful imagery through amazing optics, low-light capabilities and creative control.

PocketWizard Announces Easy-to-Use PlusX Transceiver!

The following is the official press release of today’s exciting announcement.

PocketWizard^® Announces Easy-to-Use Plus^®X Transceiver for Wireless Flash and Camera Triggering

Simplest PocketWizard ever is ideal entry into the PocketWizard wireless system of products

So. Burlington, VT – March 1, 2013 – LPA Design, manufacturers of PocketWizard Photo Products, the world leader in wireless control of cameras, flash lighting and light meters, today announces the immediate availability of its new PlusX Auto-Sensing Transceiver.

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.4 Release Candidate

New camera and lens profile support for Lightroom users

Welcome to the Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4.4 release candidate on Adobe Labs. A "release candidate" label indicates that this update is well tested but would benefit from additional community testing before it is distributed automatically to all of our customers. The Lightroom 4.4 update includes support for many new cameras and lens profiles.

Sigma USB Dock

By connecting the USB cable to a computer, SIGMA USB DOCK enables photographers to update the lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus. The adjustment is processed with special software (SIGMA Optimization Pro). The AF speed, focus limiter and OS function are also customizable for Sports lenses.

Google's Project Glass

Project Glass is a research and development program by Google to develop an augmented reality head-mounted display (HMD). Project Glass products would display information in smartphone-like format hands-free and could interact with the Internet via natural language voice commands.

Nikon D7100

Superior Clarity and Nimble Precision: The DX-Format Nikon D7100 Embraces The Advanced Enthusiast With Intuitive Engineering

Nikon’s DX-format Flagship Provides Agility, Amazing Image Quality and Wireless Connectivity

MELVILLE, N.Y. – Nikon Inc. today announced the D7100, the HD-SLR that ushers in a new era of DX-format image quality and functionality for the experienced shooter and photo enthusiast. The lightweight Nikon D7100 has an impressive array of intuitive features and controls bolstered by rapid performance and a robust feature set that includes a new 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, Nikon’s 51-point AF system and wireless connectivity.

New from LumoPro - LP605s and LP735

BATOKA CRATER, MARS., February 19th, 2013 — LumoPro®, a leading developer and manufacturer of off-camera flash equipment, announces two new products - the LP605S Compact 7.5ft Stand with Carrying Strap and the LP735 3-in-1 43” Compact Umbrella. Both products bring new updates to the LumoPro® lineup and further assists photographers in achieving portable off-camera lighting.

New Nikon Rebates

Nikon has a ton of new rebates on lenses running until March 2nd. Here is a list of the qualifying lenses:

Russian meteor explosion

I saw this video this morning and wanted to share it. Not at all photography related, but it does speak to the importance of always having a camera with you.

Check out this video of a meteorite burning through the Russian sky.

Tom Hoops London workshop April 2013

I wish I could make it out to London for this workshop. If you are int the area you should sign up for a spot.

Here are some of the specifics for the workshop:

NIKKOR Photographic Lenses Video

 TOKYO - Nikon Corporation celebrates the 80th anniversary of the launch of its NIKKOR photographic lenses this year

In commemoration of NIKKOR's 80th anniversary, Nikon hopes to strengthen and increase awareness of the historic and reliable NIKKOR brand with various promotions in 2013. The first step toward achieving this objective is the creation of a NIKKOR 80th anniversary logo that will be used in Nikon product brochures, advertisements, and various other forms of communication. The anniversary logo will embody NIKKOR's image of taking the lead in every age based on optical technologies developed over its long history.

LumoPro Multi-Mount Beauty Dish!

February 5th, 2013 - LumoPro®, a leading developer and manufacturer of off-camera flash equipment, is happy to announce the new LumoPro® Multi-Mount Beauty Dish. Developed with the help of professional photographers around the world, the new Multi-Mount Beauty Dish is the most versatile product of its kind on the market.

Nikon 1 V1 Firmware Update 1.21

This service provides software for upgrading Nikon 1 V1 A firmware to Ver. 1.21 and B firmware to Ver. 1.21. This software allows for simultaneous update of both A and B firmware to the latest version from any previous firmware version. Verify your camera’s firmware version using the instructions below. If this latest version is already installed in your camera, you need not update the firmware.
Be sure that you have read and understand the terms of the license agreement before initiating download of this software from the links at the bottom of this page.

The new Nikon COOLPIX AW110 and COOLPIX S31

The New Family-Friendly Nikon COOLPIX S31 and the Action-Oriented COOLPIX AW110 Are Ready to Take on Life's Adventures

Nikon Inc. introduced both the COOLPIX AW110 and COOLPIX S31, two innovative yet durable compact cameras for those who want to preserve every fun and action-packed moment as well as share them with friends and family. Waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof¹, the rugged AW110 is built to handle the elements, whether hiking up a mountain, hitting the slopes or riding the surf. Nikon’s newest tough camera also offers built-in Wi-Fi® connectivity² for sharing, Full HD 1080p video capabilities and a slew of advanced features that adventurers covet, including GPS and underwater shooting modes. The COOLPIX S31³ provides the reliability that allows every member of the family to preserve their own special memories. Complete with fun shooting modes and a simple yet intuitive user interface, the resilient S31 is a family camera that can be confidently carried to the pool or around the jungle gym.

Firmware updates for the Fujifilm X-Pro1, X-E1 and XF 35mm F1.4 R lens

Fujifilm has a few firmware updates available for download now with some good improvements and compatibility fixes. See some o the details after the jump.

Coming Soon: LumoPro LP180!

LumoPro posted a teaser image of the LP160 replacement, the LP180 on their Facebook page. To say that I am excited about this flash is a massive understatement.

Nikon's New S9500, P520 and L820 COOLPIX Cameras

With Incredible Zoom Ranges, Nikon's New S9500, P520 and L820 COOLPIX Cameras Make Capturing Action at a Distance Easy

Combining Connectivity with High Quality NIKKOR Lenses, Nikon’s New COOLPIX Cameras are Designed for Every Shooting Occasion

Nikon Inc. introduced three new COOLPIX digital cameras with high-power zoom lenses, enabling consumers to capture beautiful images and videos at a wide range of distances. The COOLPIX P520 sports a 42x zoom lens and the versatility needed for advanced performance, while the 22x zoom COOLPIX S9500 combines impressive range with an ultra-slim, pocketable package. Both feature Wi-Fi^® connectivity¹ that allows users to send images and videos from their camera directly to a compatible smart device through the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application¹, ideal for sharing content with others as well as for posting to social networking sites. The compact COOLPIX L820 offers a 30x zoom and an ergonomic design, making it simple and fun to comfortably capture images and videos at various distances. Great for anyone from the weekend jetsetter to the everyday memory maker, the zoom lenses and user-friendly features of the newest COOLPIX cameras make them ideal to have on-hand for any occasion.

New NIKKOR Lenses

Exacting Precision From Near or Afar: Nikon's Newest NIKKOR Lenses Offer Optical Brilliance and Versatility for FX-Format Shooters

Nikon Continues to Expand Upon the NIKKOR Lens Lineup with the New AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR Super-Telephoto Lens and AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Wide-Angle Lens

MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. introduced the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR super-telephoto lens and AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED ultra-wide-angle zoom lens, designed to assist FX-format photographers in capturing their subjects with clarity and precision. Specifically engineered for sports, wildlife and photojournalists, the 800mm f/5.6 offers the longest focal length of any NIKKOR autofocus (AF) lens, affording photographers the opportunity to get closer to their subject with extreme telephoto capability. Additionally, the compact and lightweight 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5 is an ultra-wide-angle lens option with a 1.9x zoom range is an  ideal focal length for landscape photography and other wide-angle applications. 

"NIKON IMAGE SPACE" is here!

My Picturetown was reborn today with a new name and a new look as the free
image-sharing and storage service, "NIKON IMAGE SPACE".

This service makes it easy for camera enthusiasts to upload, view, organize, and share their photos and movies of once-in-a-lifetime moments with greater convenience through sequential operation, which is achieved by high speed operation of the system, an intuitive user interface (UI), a clear window layout, and a simple operation flow.

NIKON IMAGE SPACE

More intuitive and easier to use, Nikon's image sharing and storage service is reborn as "NIKON IMAGE SPACE"

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the January 28 launch of "NIKON IMAGE SPACE ", a new image sharing and storage space.

"NIKON IMAGE SPACE" is a free online service for sharing images open not only to users of Nikon digital cameras, but anyone who enjoys taking photos or recording movies.

Trigmaster Plus II 2.4G

Aputure is pleased to announce our latest flagship trigger, the Trigmaster Plus II 2.4G, a great new tool for your flash triggering needs.

Yongnuo 2.4G wireless flash YN560-III

Yongnuo has announced the release of the YN560-III with some interesting features. Here is a translated version of their press release.

PENTAX DEBUTS RETRO DESIGN CAMERA FEATURING FAST F1.8-2.5 LENS, 4X ZOOM AND CLASSICALLY CRAFTED BRASS BODY

The MX-1 strikes the perfect balance between performance and classic

PENTAX RICOH IMAGING AMERICAS CORPORATION (PENTAX) has introduced the MX-1, an advanced digital compact camera whose craft design and vintage lines appeal to a wide variety of photo enthusiasts. It’s fast F1.8-2.5 lens produces sharp and crisp imagery in a variety of settings and the camera’s 1/1.7 inch, 12.0 effective megapixel backlit CMOS sensor renders impressive low-light performance.

Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise update

Our friends at Think Tank Photo announced that a new product line, the Sub Urban Disguise, and a revision to its highly popular multi-function camera bag,Change-Up V2.0, will be available in February.

THE NIKON D5200 INSPIRES USERS TO CAPTURE CREATIVELY

Nikon Inc. announced the U.S. availability of the Nikon D5200, a camera that provides the imaginative features and D-SLR versatility needed to fulfill any creative vision through stunning imagery and Full HD video. 

Nikon Inc. Showcases New Products and its Full Line of Industry-Leading Digital Imaging Products at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show

Nikon Continues Its Dedication to Offering Innovative Technology, User-Friendly Features and Connectivity to Photographers of All Levels with the Launch of the Nikon D5200, the Nikon 1 J3, the Nikon 1 S1 and 1 NIKKOR Lenses

New PowerShot N Digital Camera Opens New Dimensions Of Photographic Expression

Lake Success, N.Y., January 7, 2013 – To inspire creative exploration and encourage instant sharing of life's every day moments, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today unveiled the new PowerShot N digital camera as part of its PowerShot lineup. With an innovative Creative Shot mode that enhances artistic expression and a variety of new connectivity features that support instant sharing, Canon's PowerShot N is the ultimate storytelling tool.

LumoPro Announces Development of New Flagship Flash Product

January 4, 2013 — LumoPro®, a leading developer and manufacturer of off-camera flash equipment, announced today that a new flagship flash, LP180, is currently in development. The new manual flash will have unique features never before seen in a small flash. More details will be announced closer to launch date, which is estimated to be later this year. 

LumoPro Announces Development of New Flagship Flash Product

January 4, 2013 — LumoPro®, a leading developer and manufacturer of off-camera flash equipment, announced today that a new flagship flash, LP180, is currently in development. The new manual flash will have unique features never before seen in a small flash. More details will be announced closer to launch date, which is estimated to be later this year.

Helping a brave little boy.

Dearest friends, family, and clients,

About a month and a half ago I had the honor of meeting a very special little boy named Dallas. My wife and his mother were very close. Dallas had been awaiting the arrival of his little sister Leila Grace and came to stay with us while his mother was in the hospital.
What puts this little boy in my mind today is what follows:
Leila Grace had been diagnosed before birth with Anancephaly, a rare neural tube defect that is terminal. Very shortly after her birth, she passed away. I photographed the arrival and my wife was there supporting Emilee. My wife and I learned yesterday that after a month of struggling with the loss, the grief, the mother, Emilee Granatowski, took her own life yesterday morning.
We are heartbroken, to say the least, and our thoughts are constantly with this brave little boy who handled the passing of his sister with so much strength and must now endure the loss of his mother.

My wife has decided to get together a special care package for Dallas, who recently turned 6. If you are able to donate any new toys (he loves Legos, cars, building sets, etc.) art supplies, memberships to local kid friendly venues such as the Portland Zoo, Children's Museum, etc, or anything else you can think to offer to give him some wonderful experiences and things to look forward to, please let me know. There are many ways to help.


You can contact me through this post by leaving a comment below or directly by email at info@vanishedtwin.com.

Thank you.

Helping a brave little boy.

Dearest friends, family, and clients,

About a month and a half ago I had the honor of meeting a very special little boy named Dallas. My wife and his mother were very close. Dallas had been awaiting the arrival of his little sister Leila Grace and came to stay with us while his mother was in the hospital.
What puts this little boy in my mind today is what follows:
Leila Grace had been diagnosed before birth with Anancephaly, a rare neural tube defect that is terminal. Very shortly after her birth, she passed away. I photographed the arrival and my wife was there supporting Emilee. My wife and I learned yesterday that after a month of struggling with the loss, the grief, the mother, Emilee Granatowski, took her own life yesterday morning.
We are heartbroken, to say the least, and our thoughts are constantly with this brave little boy who handled the passing of his sister with so much strength and must now endure the loss of his mother.

My wife has decided to get together a special care package for Dallas, who recently turned 6. If you are able to donate any new toys (he loves Legos, cars, building sets, etc.) art supplies, memberships to local kid friendly venues such as the Portland Zoo, Children's Museum, etc, or anything else you can think to offer to give him some wonderful experiences and things to look forward to, please let me know. There are many ways to help.


You can contact me through this post by leaving a comment below or directly by email at info@vanishedtwin.com.

Thank you.

Strobist, Cheap Camera Challenge

If you think that it is all about the gear that you use to get the shot you are so wrong. Check out this video from DigitalRev TV and see what David Hobby is able to get with this Toy Story 3 Buzz Lightyear digital camera and a few cheap flashes.

The video is posted after the jump.

Strobist, Cheap Camera Challenge

If you think that it is all about the gear that you use to get the shot you are so wrong. Check out this video from DigitalRev TV and see what David Hobby is able to get with this Toy Story 3 Buzz Lightyear digital camera and a few cheap flashes.

The video is posted after the jump.