More Fujifilm X100S News And Hands-Ons (and X100s & X20 Press Conference At CES 2013)

 

dc.watch.impress published the press conference hold by Hiroshi Kawahara of Fujifilm’s Electronic Imaging Products Division. Although the post on dc.watch is translated, the many slides shown in the post are not.

DPreview completed their hands-on review with new information bits, and they have some info also about the “Digital Split Image” manual focus aid (how it works).

EOSHD explains what’s new about video modes (there was a big update), and puts an eye on 1080/60p mode, high bitrate recording, and the anti-moire sensor.

Photographybay has another hands-on, and they made the video below about the X100S

Fujifilm X100S available for pre-order ($1299.95) at Amazon US | Adorama | B&H

Sigma DP3 Merrill First Impressions

Image courtesy: The Phoblographer

If you missed it, click here to read Sigma’s press release.

Let’s talk again (briefly) about Sigma’s third companion in the fellowship of the Merrills, the DP3. We start with the specifications:

  • 46MP Foveon X3 sensor (APS-C 1.5x)

  • 50mm f2.8 lens with SLD glass (Special Low Dispersion)

  • Dual TRUE II Image Processing Engines

  • Minimum focusing of 8.9?

  • Macro shooting at 1:3

  • 9 point AF

  • Face detection

  • 3 inch TFT LCD at 920,000 dots

  • Hot shoe and lens hood

  • SD video recording

  • ISO 100-6400 set in 1/3 steps

Yes, 46MP…not bad uh? And a fixed 50mm f/2.8 lens, that’s a 75mm on 35mm film equivalent. Weird, isn’t it? But, hey, the DP3 looks good with its minimalist look. You just have to buy all three DP3s to have the needed flexibility (DP1 19mm, 28mm eq.; DP2 30mm, 45mm eq.). Chris Gampat over at The Phoblographer had a chance to play around a bit with the DP3. About image quality he writes:

Because I worked with a pre-production unit, I couldn’t stick a card in the camera. However, I saw prints made with it; and they’re stunning.

His first impressions:

I walked away quite impressed with the DP3 and I may even be able to get used to shooting at 75mm. It’s a weird focal length though: too long to be normal and too short to be a proper portrait focal length in my opinion.

The build quality of the camera is what truly blew me away though; and that may also help to justify its high price tag.

We have yet to wait for the price of the DP3 Merrill, as well as for pre-order options. However, you can get notified by B&H about the availability by clicking here.

Click here to see all the coverage of the Merrill series by The Phoblographer.

[via The Phoblographer]

Fujifilm X100S Hands-On And First Impressions

Round-up of Fujifilm X100S related information.

For some tech insights see what Fuji has to say here. X100s catalogue PDF: http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x100s/pdf/index/x100s_catalogue_01.pdf

Lot’s of hands-on photos at Photography Blog.

Hands-on at popphoto.com, they write: The already-excellent hybrid OVF/EVF on the X100 has been improved in the X100s, now covering 100% of the frame, adding resolution, and using improved glass to increase visibility. And: One of the big draws of the new sensor tech is the fact that they have phase-detection AF pixels on-board. That gives both cameras a substantial speed boost in the AF department.

A comprehensive preview at techradar: The Fuji X100S has a hybrid AF system that uses either contrast or phase detection depending on the situation (the camera makes the selection automatically). And Fuji claims that it has the fastest AF speed of any APS-C format fixed lens compact camera (not a huge pool), taking just 0.08 sec to get the subject sharp.

Another first look at dpreview, and another comprehensive preview at imaging resource. The latter write: While we’ll obviously have to withhold judgement until we can put a sample of the Fuji X100S through its paces in our lab, it has the look of that truly rare beast in the camera world: the automatic upgrade. If you like your X100, you’ll probably want to run — not walk — to the nearest camera store or friendly internet retailer, to lay hands on the new X100S. We expect the improvements to be pretty dramatic.

Fujifilm X100S available for pre-order ($1299.95) at Amazon US | Adorama | B&H

 

Update: Nikon 1 J3, Nikon 1 S1, And New Nikkor Lenses Available For Pre-Order

The Nikon 1 J3 and the Nikon 1 S1 are available for pre-order at B&H and Adorama.

Nikon 1 J3: B&H and Adorama and Amazon

Nikon 1 S1: B&H and Adorama

Various color options and kits. The S1 with the 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 Compact Zoom is $496.95, with the11-27.5mm and 30-110mm Zoom Lenses is $746.95. The J3 with the 10-100mm f/4-5.6 VR Zoom is $1046.95, with the10-30mm and 30-110mm Zoom Lenses is $846.95. Adorama has the S1 with the 11-27.5 for $499.95, the J3 with the 10-30 VR for $599.95. It’s best to check out the links above for all color and lens combinations.

The 1 NIKKOR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 VR Lens and the and the 1 NIKKOR 10-100mm f/4.0-5.6 VR Lens are also available for pre-order. Black, silver and white color options.

1 NIKKOR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 VR ($499.95): B&H and Adorama

1 NIKKOR 10-100mm f/4.0-5.6 VR ($546.95): B&H and Adorama

 

Update: Now It Is Official! – Sigma DP3 Merrill Full Specifications Leaked

Update: Sigma officially announced the DP3 Merrill. Click here to read the press release.

 

January 07, 2013

The Sigma DP3 Merrill, the latest in the series of compact cameras incorporating the 46 megapixel Foveon X3 direct image sensor.

SIGMA DP3 Merrill

Sigma Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the new SIGMA DP3 Merrill, featuring a 50mm F2.8 lens, will join the lineup of the “SIGMA DP Merrill” series. The SIGMA DP3 Merrill is the next generation of high image quality compact digital cameras. Equipped with the Foveon X3 image sensor, the DP3 Merrill ensures outstanding resolution and natural rendering with rich gradation as well as a three-dimensional feel.
Featuring a high performance 50mm F2.8 lens (a focal range equivalent to 75mm on a 35mm SLR camera), the SIGMA DP3 Merrill offers incredibly high levels of optical performance and takes in every detail of the subject’s information. This state of the art lens also offers enhanced macro functionality as well.
The SIGMA DP3 Merrill completes this series of compact cameras by satisfying the mid-telephoto and macro range shooting. The SIGMA DP1 Merrill is designed for wide angle images, the SIGMA DP2 Merrill is for standard range, while the DP3 Merrill rounds out the series with a camera for all shooting situations.

Read more

Nikon Announces Nikon 1 J3 And Nikon 1 S1 Mirrorless Cameras

Two new mirrorless cameras by Nikon, just announced. The Nikon 1 J3 ($599.95) and Nikon 1 S1 ($499.95). The former has 14.2MP, the latter 10.1MP. Both have a highly accurate 73 point AF system and a 15fps burst rate. Read more about the specifications in the press release below.

Nikon’s press release:

NIKON EXPANDS THE NIKON 1 SYSTEM WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE NIKON 1 J3 AND NIKON 1 S1 AS WELL AS THE NEW 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13MM F/3.5-5.6 AND VR 10-100MM F/4-5.6 LENSES

New Nikon 1 System Cameras and Lenses Demonstrate Nikon’s Commitment to Providing Shooters with New Ways to be Creative, Expressive and Connected through Images and Video

Las Vegas, CES Booth #8643 (January 7, 2013) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the new Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1, the latest additions to the ever growing Nikon 1 Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens System. Designed for consumers looking for a camera that offers the compact size and portability of a point-and-shoot camera along with advanced controls and features found in high-end digital cameras, the new J3 and S1 cameras offer enhanced speed and performance, high image quality and new easy-to-use creative shooting modes. Furthermore, users will be able to easily share and transfer images to smart devices instantly when connected to the optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter1.

Nikon also announced new accessories for the Nikon 1 System, including two new additions to the 1 NIKKOR lenses lineup, the VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and the VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6, ideal lenses for capturing amazing images and HD video with incredible detail. The 6.7-13mm is the first 1 NIKKOR lens to offer a wide, 100-degree angle of view, and the compact and lightweight 10-100mm is a 10x zoom lens that is ultra-portable, perfect for taking on any type of trip or excursion. Nikon has also announced the new WP-N2 underwater case, specifically designed for the adventurous user looking to take their photography on water-based excursions like snorkeling or surfing without the fear of water damaging their camera.

“With today’s announcement of the Nikon 1 J3, Nikon 1 S1, 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm lens and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm lens, Nikon continues to demonstrate our commitment to developing and expanding the Nikon 1 System for creative shooters looking to step up from their compact digital cameras,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “Similar to previous Nikon 1 System cameras, the compact yet powerful J3 and S1 offer stunning image quality, quick performance, incredibly fast shooting speeds, user-friendly modes and controls, as well as the ability to wirelessly share and transfer images when paired with the WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter.”

Built to Capture and Deliver Stunning Results: The New Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1

Though new additions to the Nikon 1 System, both the J3 and S1 feature many proven and trusted Nikon technologies commonly found in other Nikon camera models. The Nikon 1 J3 features a 14.2-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor, while the Nikon 1 S1 sports a 10.1-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor. Paired together with Nikon’s powerful EXPEED 3A image processing engine, these CMOS sensors deliver stunning high-quality images and HD video even in challenging lighting situations with rich detail. For complete shooting versatility, both cameras feature a wide ISO range, from 160 to 6400 in the J3 and 100 to 6400 in the S1, allowing users even more freedom and capabilities when capturing content in low-light situations. Both cameras offer wide and bright 3-inch LCD screens as well as a new integrated flash that can be setup to go off automatically or can be manually popped up based on a shooter’s desired results.

Additionally, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 offer Nikon’s Advanced Hybrid Autofocus (AF) system, which is lightning fast and highly responsive, ideal for capturing life’s split second moments. With this rapid AF system, users can take advantage of incredibly fast shooting speeds, allowing them to capture fast action that is sharp and in clear focus. The cameras also feature a 73-point AF array that helps ensure accuracy and super precise focus even when capturing fast moving subjects throughout the frame. Further, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 include the world’s shortest release time at approximately 80 milliseconds*, and the world’s fastest high-speed continuous shooting** at 15 frames-per-second with continuous AF.

Creativity Unleashed: User-Friendly Shooting Modes and Controls

Designed to take creative freedom to new heights, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 offer user-friendly shooting modes and controls that photographers can take advantage of whether capturing a family portrait or recording a video of the big hit at a ballgame. For easier control and quick access to camera features, the J3 utilizes improved menu navigation while the S1 features a graphic user interface (GUI) based mode selection, both designed to be easy-to-use and make menu navigation effortless and direct.

The new Nikon 1 System cameras both feature unique shooting modes like Auto Mode, Creative Mode, Advanced Movie, Motion Snapshot and Best Moment Capture, all of which are easily accessible and applied. When in Auto Mode, both cameras will automatically select the optimal settings for the scene, so that the shooter can concentrate on framing the photo. When in Creative Mode, shooters can utilize full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) as well as Selective Color, Miniature, Soft, Night Landscape, Backlighting and Night Portrait modes to help achieve the desired results that they seek. The Nikon 1 J3 also provides access to Easy Panorama Mode to provide a wide perspective for vast landscapes or interiors.

The Advanced Movie Mode is integrated into both new cameras to bolster video capabilities. When in Advanced Movie Mode, the simultaneous shooting of Full HD video and high-resolution stills of a subject or scene is achievable. Furthermore, full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) can be used and slow motion movies at both 400 fps and 1200 fps can also be captured when in this mode. Both cameras share the Enhanced Motion Snapshot Mode to provide users with the option of capturing a quick passing moment with a short, slow-motion movie sequence in addition to a single defining still image. When using Motion Snapshot, in-camera electronic Vibration Reduction (eVR) can be applied to assist in removing blur from images.

With Best Moment Capture Mode, Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 shooters can explore the benefits of two dynamic features, Slow View and Smart Photo Selector. In Slow View, the pressing of the shutter button halfway down once focus is achieved will allow users to capture live action (approx. 1.33 seconds), while the view of the subject is displayed at five times slower than normal speed (approx. 6.66 seconds) on the camera’s LCD screen. Furthermore, the slowed-down view is looped over and over until a full-press of the shutter is made. By viewing action slowed down, users have more opportunities to capture the perfect moment. When Smart Photo Selector is used, shooters can capture up to 20 shots with the J3 and 15 shots with the S1 with one press of the shutter button. The cameras will then automatically identify the five best images to keep based on exposure, focus and facial recognition factors.

Instantly and Easily Share Creative Content: Nikon 1 System Connectivity

Like the Nikon 1 V2, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 were designed to work with Nikon’s optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter. When the WU-1b is connected to the J3 or S1, users have the ability to capture high-quality images and can then easily transfer them wirelessly to a smart device. Once transferred, images can be shared with family and friends or posted to status pages on social media networks. If using the free Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application for Android™2 platform smart devices as well as iPhone® and iPad®3 mobile digital devices, J3 and S1 users will have the ability to remotely take photos with the camera from a smartphone or tablet.

Expansion of the 1 NIKKOR Lens Lineup: The New 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm and VR 10-100mm Lenses

Alongside the new Nikon 1 System cameras, Nikon also announced the addition of two new 1 NIKKOR lenses, the 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and 10-100mm f/4-5.6. With these two lenses, Nikon 1 shooters have even more options when building a camera system that fits their shooting needs and creativity. The new compact, ultra wide-angle zoom 6.7-13mm lens (equivalent to a focal length of 18mm to 35mm in FX/35mm format) will provide photographers with new avenues to explore their creativity and expressivity in photos and videos. The lens includes Vibration Reduction (VR) and has a wide 100-degree angle of view, which makes it ideal for capturing photos and HD video of landscapes, cityscapes, interiors, and architecture. Photographers looking for some more range with their Nikon 1 System cameras will enjoy the new 10-100mm telephoto zoom lens (equivalent to a focal length of 27mm to 270mm in FX/35mm format), which also incorporates Vibration Reduction (VR). The compact and lightweight telephoto lens is portable and convenient enough to take everywhere, while providing a long focal range perfect for various types of photography including group shots and action sports.

Capturing Images Underwater: The New WP-N2 Underwater Case

Perfectly paired with the new Underwater White Balance setting found in both the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1, Nikon has introduced the new WP-N2 underwater case. This new underwater case can house either the J3 or the S1 in addition to the 1 NIKKOR 10-30mm lens. Moreover, the WP-N2 underwater case will allow users to zoom in and out when using the 10-30mm lens. Designed to complement the versatility of the Nikon 1 System cameras, the WP-N2 gives shooters the creative freedom to capture images and videos at the beach, the lake or during aquatic adventures such as snorkeling. The underwater case is submergible and waterproof up to approximately 131 feet (40 meters). Additionally, the new J3 and S1 feature an Underwater White Balance setting which makes adjusting white balance easy when capturing photos underwater.

Price and Availability

The Nikon 1 J3 camera with the 10-30mm lens will be available in February 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $599.95***. Additionally, the Nikon 1 S1 camera with the 11-27.5mm lens will be available in February 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $499.95***. To match consumers’ personalities and creativity, the J3 will come in a variety of stylish colors including White, Black, Silver, Burgundy and Beige, while the S1 will come in White, Black, Red, Pink and Khaki.

The two 1 NIKKOR lenses, the 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6, will have suggested retail prices (SRP) of $499.95*** and $549.95***, respectively. The new WP-N2, the underwater case for either the Nikon 1 J3 or the Nikon 1 S1, will be available in February 2013 and will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.95***.

1The Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility Application must be installed on the smart device before it can be used with the WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter connected to the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1. The application can be downloaded free of charge from Google Play™ or the Apple App Store. For use with Android or iOS mobile devices, please refer to mobile device compatibility and available features at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nikon.wu.wmau&hl=en (Android) or https://itunes.apple.com/en/app/wireless-mobile-adapter-utility/id554157010 (iOS).

2Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google, Inc.

3iPhone, iPad and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

*Among digital cameras with interchangeable lenses available as of December 20, 2012 as determined by Nikon performance tests; measured when using the single-point AF mode and the shortest focal length of 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).

**Among digital cameras with interchangeable lenses available as of December 20, 2012 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).

***SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time. ****Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

[via engadget]