Author Archives: jonathanb

Canon EOS 40D Review at The Digital Picture

The Digital Picture has reviewed the Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR a 10.1 megapixel (CMOS sensor) DSLR with 6.5 frames per second shooting, a new Autofocus system with 9 cross type sensors, 3.0 inch LCD with Live View, DIGIC III image processor, EOS integrated cleaning system, Spot Metering, and a larger, brighter view finder and quieter mechanism than it’s predecessor.

They write – “The 40D is a camera that will appeal to a vast range of photographers from advanced amateurs to working photojournalists and wedding photographers. All will appreciate its exceptional image quality, ease of operation, speed, modest weight and size, compatibility with the vast Canon system and very reasonable price.” [Canon 40D White Paper] I agree. The 30D already sees a lot of professional use – The 40D offers enough improvements over the 30D to make an upgrade justifiable. Watch for them at the next wedding or other event you attend. And no less important will be the huge number of family memories preserved with the 40D. With its all-around good performance combined with the densest Canon DSLR sensor available, the 40D will have a large number of wildlife (especially bird) photographers as its owners. I’ll personally be making the 40D part of my kit (replacing my 30D).”

Canon EOS 40D
Get a price at Amazon for the Canon EOS 40D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera

Read more about the Canon EOS 40D

Nikon D700 Review at Luminous Landscape

The Nikon D700 is a full-frame DSLR camera features 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, 51-point AF system, 3D Focus Tracking and two Live View shooting modes, ISO range from 200-6400 can be expanded to range from ISO 100 (Lo-1) to 25,600 (Hi-2), 0.12-second start-up speed, high-speed UDMA CF cards that will enable recording speeds up to 35 megabytes/second, Continuous shooting up to 5 frames per second, Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System, and a three-Inch, super-density 920,000-dot VGA color monitor.

Luminous Landscape has reviwed the Nikon D700 and posted their thoughts on the new full frame prosumer model. They write: "At any sensitivity up to ISO 1600 there’s little of concern in terms of low noise. Uncanny. At ISO 3200 a slight bit of luminance noise appears, but it can be easily removed in post. ISO 6200 is still eminently usable, and even ISO 12,000 equivalent is acceptable for reportage.

Nikon D700

Read more about the Nikon D700 here

Canon EOS 1000D / Rebel XS Preview at CNET Asia

CNET Asia has a preview of the Canon EOS 1000D / Rebel XS a 10.1 megapixel entry level digital SLR, featuring 7-point wide area AF system. 2.5 inch LCD display, and up to 3fps continuous JPEG shooting. The EOS 1000D also includes the DIGIC III image processor, Live View mode, and EOS Integrated Cleaning System.

They write: “It’s difficult to distinguish Canon’s latest dSLR–the EOS 1000D–from the EOS 450D. In many ways, the new member shares a lot of similar features like the body structure, Live View function and the use of the DIGIC III image processor. Which leads us to wonder, will the new shooter eat into the EOS 450D’s market?…. It comes down to one thing–price. If rumors online are true and the EOS 1000D is priced at sub-US$500, it’ll be interesting to see how other manufacturers will react. Strictly for newbies, the EOS 1000D looks like a good shooter for them to start advancing their photographic skills.”

Canon EOS 1000D

Read more about the Canon EOS 1000D / Rebel XS

Canon EOS 40D Review at Photography Blog

PhotographyBLOG has reviewed the Canon EOS 40D a 10.1 megapixel (CMOS sensor) DSLR with 6.5 frames per second shooting, a new Autofocus system with 9 cross type sensors, 3.0 inch LCD with Live View, DIGIC III image processor, EOS integrated cleaning system, Spot Metering, and a larger, brighter view finder and quieter mechanism than it’s predecessor.

They write – "The high points of the Canon EOS 40D are the tough, durable body, the control layout and that amazing 6.5fps shooting mode. Yes, it does soundly like a badly-muffled machine-gun, but it lets you grab action sequences that lesser cameras would miss. The speed of the AF system keeps moving subjects sharp, too. But perhaps the most striking thing about the Canon EOS 40D is its value. It’s true that it costs more than other 10-megapixel cameras, but it’s also much more professionally-orientated. Its nearest rival in the semi-pro market would be the newly-announced Nikon D300, but the list price is £1300 for the body only, and for that money you could get an EOS 40D and Canon’s 17-85mm image-stabilised lens and have change to spare. The Canon EOS 40D’s strength doesn’t lie in any great technological breakthrough but in its professional appeal and its sheer value for money."

Canon EOS 40D

Get a price at Amazon for the Canon EOS 40D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera

Read more about the Canon EOS 40D

Sony Alpha A200 Review at Camera Labs

CameraLabs has written a review of the Sony Alpha A200 an entry level digital SLR camera featuring a 10.2 megapixel (CCD) APS image sensor, 2.7 inch LCD Clear Photo LCDTM screen (230,000 pixels), and ISO range of 100 to 3200, built in super steady shot and a burst mode of 3 frames per second to the full capacity of the card that it is using when shooting in JPEG (and for a burst of 6 frames in RAW).

They write: “In terms of actual improvements over its predecessor, the A200 has only a handful including a maximum sensitivity of 3200 ISO, quicker AF speed, a slightly bigger screen, support for an optional battery grip and the inclusion of an Info Lithium battery pack to deliver accurate feedback on remaining charge. The body and control layout has also been tweaked…especially with its superior high ISO performance, but with built-in stabilisation at a similar RRP, the Sony still looks strong. It’s also looking good against Nikon’s new entry-level D60..So as it stands, the A200 may be unremarkable, but remains a good, solid, entry-level 10 Megapixel DSLR we can easily recommend..”

Sony Alpha A200

Get a price from Amazon for the Sony Alpha A200K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera

Read more about the Sony Alpha A200

Canon EOS Rebel XS

The Canon EOS Rebel XS has been announced in the USA, following the launch in other markets as the EOS 1000D on June 10In the United States, the camera will be available in a choice of black or silver but will not be available as body-only, with all units coming bundled with the EF-S 18-55mm IS lens.  

The EOS Rebel XS is an entry level D-SLR featuring a 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, 7-point wide area AF system. 2.5 inch LCD display, and up to 3fps continuous JPEG shooting. With the lightest body of any digital EOS camera, the EOS Rebel XS also incorporates many of the new features found in its big brother, including the DIGIC III image processor, and Live View mode, and presents them in a less expensive package.

Canon’s estimated retail price is $699 for the camera and lens, Check the price at Amazon here.

Canon EOS Rebel XS

 Key Features:

  • 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor
  • EOS Integrated Cleaning System
  • 7-point wide-area AF system
  • Up to 3 frames per second
  • 2.5” LCD with Live View shooting
  • DIGIC III image processor
  • Compatible with SD and SDHC memory cards
  • Compact and lightweight body
  • Digital Photo Professional RAW processing software
  • Fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX-series Speedlites

Rebel XS

Canon EOS Rebel XS Press Release

CANON’S NEW EOS REBEL XS CAMERA LOOKS TO INSPIRE A NEW GENERATION OF DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHERS Photographers Looking for the Next Step Up From Their Point-and-Shoot Camera Will Enjoy the High-End Features and Fun-to-Use SLR Technology of Canon’s Newest Rebel Camera

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., July 8, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the introduction of the EOS Rebel XS, a new entry-level digital camera that affordably puts Canon SLR technology such as an Optical Imaged Stabilized lens and easy-to-use professional features into the hands of emerging photographers. Consumers looking to take their photography a step further and begin shooting with an SLR will find the transition easier than ever with Canon’s new Rebel XS digital SLR camera. From the parent photographing a little league game, to the tourist shooting a wondrous new city, the Canon Rebel XS camera makes photography easy for everyone. Canon has also introduced the latest model in the EX series of Speedlite flashes: the Canon Speedlite 430EX II.

Ideal for a wide range of photographers from first-time digital SLR users to veteran photo enthusiasts, the new Canon EOS Rebel XS camera was designed to embody what customers have come to expect from the EOS Rebel series – a fast, non-intimidating, lightweight, easy-to-use camera that produces excellent images and starts emerging photographers off on the right foot. Immediately, photographers will take notice of the camera’s Optical Image Stabilized kit lens for crisp focus, compensating for camera shake from unsteady hands or a moving vehicle. The new Rebel model also incorporates Canon’s DIGIC III image processor, 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, Live View, Auto Lighting Optimizer, 7-point wide-area autofocus (AF) sensor and 3.0 frames per second continuous JPEG burst rate where the number of consecutive shots in a burst is only limited by the capacity of the flash memory card in the camerai.

"We are proud to introduce the new EOS Rebel XS camera at a very exciting time in digital imaging. As consumers have fully embraced digital photography, with many consumers purchasing their second or third digital camera models, we see the Rebel XS as the bridge to help photographers cross over from the world of point-and-shoot cameras to digital SLR technology," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

A first in Canon’s EOS line-up, the Rebel XS camera’s continuous JPEG burst rate allows users to continuously shoot a scene until the memory card is at capacity. This will be particularly helpful for new photographers looking to capture that perfect image of a moving subject.

The Live View function allows users to frame and shoot images in real time via the camera’s 2.5 inch LCD screen, a great feature for users accustomed to framing shots via LCD monitors on point-and-shoot digital cameras. The Camera’s Auto Lighting Optimizer detects dark areas of an image and automatically adjusts brightness and contrast to ensure optimal image results. The Canon Rebel XS allows greater ease of use through large control buttons and easy-to-see operating panel indications such as ISO settings visible through the viewfinder and Canon Speedlite controls through the camera LCD menu.

The Rebel XS incorporates an APS-C size (22.2 x 14.8 mm) CMOS sensor with 10.1 million pixel images and Canon’s exclusive high-performance DIGIC III image processor to help deliver high levels of imaging performance and responsiveness. It also has Canon’s exclusive EOS Integrated Cleaning System, which features both hardware and software-based dust removal technology. Additionally, weighing less than 1 lb./450 grams, this camera is the lightest body in the EOS digital series camera lineup.

The EOS Rebel XS camera is compatible with Canon’s extensive lineup of more than 60 EF and EF-S lenses, including the Image Stabilizer-equipped EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS, which is included in the camera’s standard zoom lens kit package. The Canon Rebel XS will be available in black or silver colored body variations.

Canon Speedlite 430EX II
The new Canon Speedlite 430EX II, which succeeds the 430EX, realizes an approximately 20 percent reduction in recycling time compared with its predecessor. Like the 580EX II, the 430EX II allows users to control flash functions and input settings using the camera’s LCD monitorii, and also offers a quick-lock attachment system and a metal mounting foot for improved contact reliability and durability. The new Canon Speedlite 430EX II will carry an estimated retail price of $329.99.

In the Box
Expected to ship in August 2008 the Canon Rebel XS camera is available in a zoom lens kit version, which includes the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens, a rechargeable battery pack and charger, USB and video cables, a neckstrap, an EOS Solutions Disk CD, and a 1-year Canon U.S.A., Inc. limited warranty. The new camera’s estimated retail price is $699.99.

Though standard in the EOS Rebel XS kit, the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens is also available as a stand-alone purchase and carries an estimated retail price of $199.99.

Nikon D700 Available for Pre-Order

Amazon has wasted no time getting product pages up for the Nikon D700, and they are now accepting pre-orders. See the following links below for the respective pre-order pages and prices for the D700:

Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera with 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

Read more about the Nikon D700

Nikon Speedlight SB-900

The Nikon Speedlight SB-900 has been announced along the new D700. The SB-900 is Nikons new top of the line flashgun replacing the successful SB-800 model. The new model provides a wide 17-200 mm auto zoom range, three illumination patterns (standard, center-weighted and even), full-information LCD panel and AF-Assist illumination compatible with new-generation AF sensors automatically detecting if you are using the Nikon FX or DX format.

Nikon SB-900

Main Features:

  • Multi-step auto zoom covers wide 17-200mm zoom range (24-105mm:SB-800)
  • Three illumination patterns (standard, center-weighted and even) are available to match each shooting environment
  • Automatically detects Nikon FX and Nikon DX formats and selects suitable light distribution
  • Improved booster circuit for high-speed recycle time: Recycle time using four AA-size batteries is almost equal to the SB-800 with five AA-size batteries
  • New AF-Assist illumination covers a wide 20-105 mm focal range compatible with the new Multi-CAM3500 FX/DX AF sensor
  • Firmware update via Nikon D3 and D700 is possible (world’s first*)
  • Thermal Cut-out function limits the number of flashes to avoid deterioration of light emitting parts caused by continuous flash firing
  • Automatically detects color filters (fluorescent or incandescent), enabling camera to control color temperature according to filter information from SB-900
  • Optional Water Guard WG-AS1 (for D3), WG-AS2 (for D300), and WG-AS3 (for D700) is useful for protecting the camera’s hot shoe contact when the SB-900 is mounted on these Nikon digital SLR cameras

Nikon Speedlight SB-900 Press Release

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the Nikon Speedlight SB-900, a new external i-TTL flash unit with advanced features. The SB-900 offers a powerful guide number of 48/157.5 (ISO 200, meters/feet) and an incredible array of creative flash functions. The SB-900 is an ideal way to solve lighting challenges and extend Nikon D-SLR creativity.

The SB-900 is a high-performance Speedlight developed as the successor to the hugely successful Nikon SB-800. Practical functionality was emphasized in designing the SB-900, especially evident when used with Nikon digital SLR cameras compatible with the Nikon Creative Lighting System. It provides a wide 17-200 mm auto zoom range (expanded from the SB-800’s 24-105mm), three illumination patterns, newly designed, streamlined operation with a full-information LCD panel, and AF-Assist illumination compatible with new-generation AF sensors. The SB-900 has an improved booster circuit for high-speed recycle time. In addition, firmware can be uploaded via a Nikon digital SLR camera—a world’s first* for flash units, assuring that the SB-900 can accept technological advancements. The SB-900 serves as the new core for the Nikon Creative Lighting System when used in combination with current Nikon digital SLRs, and it supports Advanced Wireless Lighting as a master or a remote Speedlight, inviting photographers to explore the many creative possibilities.

Additional new functions include 180 degrees of left or right head swivel, a special built-in overheat protection system and automatic filter detection for unprecedented white balance correction, even in fluorescent lighting conditions.

With the SB-900, users can enjoy all the benefits of the Nikon Creative Lighting System for both automation and comprehensive control, enabling endless lighting possibilities.

*The world’s first flash unit with a user-applied firmware update function via a digital SLR camera as of July 1, 2008 (according to research conducted by NIKON CORPORATION).

Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories and release schedule may differ by country or region

Nikon Speedlight SB-900 Major Features

  • Multi-step auto zoom covers wide 17-200mm zoom range (24-105mm:SB-800)
  • Three illumination patterns (standard, center-weighted and even) are available to match each shooting environment
  • Automatically detects Nikon FX and Nikon DX formats and selects suitable light distribution
  • Improved booster circuit for high-speed recycle time: Recycle time using four AA-size batteries is almost equal to the SB-800 with five AA-size batteries
  • New AF-Assist illumination covers a wide 20-105 mm focal range compatible with the new Multi-CAM3500 FX/DX AF sensor
  • Firmware update via Nikon D3 and D700 is possible (world’s first*)
  • Thermal Cut-out function limits the number of flashes to avoid deterioration of light emitting parts caused by continuous flash firing
  • Automatically detects color filters (fluorescent or incandescent), enabling camera to control color temperature according to filter information from SB-900
  • Improved switch panel for enhanced usability
  • Improved GUI using a large-size LCD dot panel
  • Bounce capability: tilts up to 90º, down to -7º, rotates horizontally 180º to right and left
  • Advanced Wireless Lighting and versatile functions for up to three remote groups of SB-900s or other compatible Speedlight controlled through the master SB-900
  • Optional Water Guard WG-AS1 (for D3), WG-AS2 (for D300), and WG-AS3 (for D700) is useful for protecting the camera’s hot shoe contact when the SB-900 is mounted on these Nikon digital SLR cameras
  • *The world’s first flash unit firmware update function via a digital SLR camera as of July 1, 2008 (according to research conducted by NIKON CORPORATION).

Speedlight SB-900 Specifications

Electronic construction

Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) and series circuitry

Guide number (20°C/68°F)
34/111.5 (ISO 100, m/ft), 48/157.5 (ISO 200, m/ft)
Illumination pattern

Three illumination patterns: standard, even and center-weighted The light distribution angle is automatically adjusted to the camera’s image area in both FX and DX formats

Flash shooting distance range

0.6 m to 20 m (2 to 66 ft) (varies depending on camera image area setting, illumination pattern, ISO sensitivity, zoom position, and lens aperture)

Flash mode

TTL, Auto Aperture flash, Non-TTL auto flash, Distance-priority manual flash, Manual flash, Repeating flash

Other functions

Test firing, monitor pre-flashes, AF-assist illuminator, and Modeling illuminator

Multiple flash operation

Advanced Wireless Lighting, SU-4 type wireless multiple flash

Compatible cameras

All cameras compatible with Nikon Creative Lighting System (other cameras can be used but functionality is reduced)

Flash exposure control set on the camera

Camera’s sync modes: Slow-sync, Red-eye reduction in slow-sync, Rear-curtain sync, Rear-curtain slow-sync
Shooting functions: Auto FP High-Speed sync, FV Lock flash

Bounce capability

Flash head tilts down to -7° or up to 90° with click-stops at -7°, 0°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90° Flash head rotates horizontally 180° to the left and right with click-stops at 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 150°, 180°

ON/OFF

Press the Power ON-OFF switch to turn the SB-900 on or off Standby function can be set

 
 

Power source/min. recycle time/no. of flashes (at full output)
With fresh batteries (These data may vary depending on battery condition)

Four AA-size penlight batteries (1.5V or lower) of the following types:

Batteries
Min. recycle time (approx.)

Min. number of flashes / interval between full flash output and ready light on*

Alkaline-manganese (1.5V)
4.0 sec.
110/4.0-30 sec.
Lithium (1.5V)
4.5 sec.
230/4.5-120 sec.
Oxyride (1.5V)
3.0 sec.
125/3.0-30 sec.
Ni-MH (2600 mAh) (rechargeable) (1.2V)
2.3 sec.
190/2.3-30 sec.

* When firing the Speedlight at full output once every 30 seconds (120 seconds with lithium batteries.)

 
 
Ready light

The SB-900 is fully recycled: Rear ready-light lights up and front light blinks Insufficient light for correct exposure (in i-TTL, Auto Aperture flash, Non-TTL Auto flash, or Distance-priority manual flash operations): ready-lights and front lights blink after shooting

Flash duration
Approx. 1/880 sec. at full output
Mounting foot lock lever

Provides secure attachment of SB-900 to camera’s accessory shoe using locking plate and mount pin to prevent accidental detachment.

Dimensions (W x H x D)
Approx. 78.0 x146.0 x 118.5 mm (3.0 x 5.7 x 4.7 in.)
Weight (without batteries)
Approx. 415 g (14.6 oz.)
Supplied accessories

Speedlight Stand AS-21, Nikon Diffusion Dome SW-13H, Color Filter Set SJ-900, Color Filter Holder SZ-2, Soft Case SS-900

Optional accessories

Color Filter Set SJ-3, Water Guard WG-AS1/WG-AS2/WG-AS3, High-Performance Battery Pack SD-9, Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4, TTL Remote Cord SC-28/SC-29