Digital Photography Review Newsletter: Wednesday, 19 March 2014

	Digital Photography Review Newsletter Wednesday, 19 March 2014 The most popular weekly photography newsletter, with over 300,000 subscribers
Welcome to the 501st Digital Photography Review newsletter! It's been another busy week here at dpreview, with new cameras released, new reviews published and in progress and - briefly - a hint of spring in the air. I spent much of the weekend dragging Nikon's new D4s around in the rain before giving up hope of getting enough images for a half-way interesting sample gallery, but we're hoping to publish a lot more on that camera very soon (and there's a link to our initial studio samples below). While I remember, if you've been enjoying our series of interviews with senior figures in the major camera and lens manufacturers, we've made a new index page to make them easier to find. Click here to take a look. OK, let's run through some recent content highlights! Olympus OM-D E-M10 review The Olympus OM-D E-M10 is the third incarnation of Olympus' popular range of high-end mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. The E-M10 boasts some impressive DNA, using the same excellent 16MP Four Thirds sensor as its E-M5 sibling. We've been shooting with it extensively over the past few weeks, hoping to find out whether this 'digital' OM is as capable as the two that preceded it. Those are two solid acts to follow - how does the OM-D E-M10 perform? Find out in our review. Click here to read our in-depth review of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Samsung NX mini first impressions review Samsung has announced its new NX mini mirrorless camera, which uses a smaller sensor and lens mount than its existing NX system. Sporting a new 20.5MP 1"-type BSI-CMOS sensor, the NX mini is the slimmest mirrorless camera on the market. It uses a new NX-M lens mount, with two lenses available at launch (9-27mm and 9mm) and a third (17mm) coming this summer. Other features include an LCD that flips up 180 degrees, Wi-Fi with NFC, 1080/30p video, and Samsung's usual assortment of bells and whistles. Learn more in our first-impressions review! Click here to read our first-impressions review of the Samsung NX mini Nikon 1 V3 announced and previewed Nikon's 1-System cameras have tended to slip under the radar of most enthusiasts, at least in the USA and Europe. The company's new V3 mirrorless camera is Nikon's attempt to change that, with its impressive AF and burst shooting specs and more customizable controls. We were able to spend some time with the Nikon 1 V3 and have put together a quick overview of the camera for your reading pleasure. Meanwhile, Richard is wondering whether he's missing something... Click here to read our first look at the Nikon 1 V3 Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM | C samples gallery Sigma's 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM | C is the latest version of its popular stabilized superzoom lens for APS-C / DX format SLRs. It's smaller and lighter than the previous model (the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM from 2011), but offers an updated optical design with improved close-focusing abilities. Sigma shipped us a sample a few days ago so we could try it out and we've been running around (in typically unpredictable Seattle weather) getting some real-world samples. Click through to see the shots. Click here to view our Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM | C samples gallery Nikon D4s added to our studio comparison database! We just added studio test scene images to our First Impressions Review of the Nikon D4s. The D4s is a refined version of Nikon's flagship DSLR, incorporating several changes - large and small - resulting from feedback from professional users. As well as minor ergonomic refinements and a slightly improved video mode the D4s also offers a highest ISO sensitivity of 409,600 (equivalent) - the highest we've ever seen. Click through to see for yourself what that looks like. Click here to see how the D4s performs in our studio comparison scene What's coming up? Sorry to sound like a stuck record but our reviews of the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 and the Pentax K-3, are coming together, truly, honestly (the RX10 review should be on the site in the next couple of days with any luck) and we're continuing to shoot with the new Nikon D4s, with the intention of adding more test pages to our first-impressions review as soon as we can. Until next week... Barney WTD #1456 Check out What The Duck in our Link Directory GearShop update - a message from Laura GearShop update - a message from Laura Now shipping: Samsung's Galaxy Camera 2 , an ultra-compact shooter powered by Android 4.3 Jelly Bean that can run nearly any Android app, is now in stock. In addition to being a slim camera with a 21x lens, the GC2 has a 4.8" touchscreen, GPS, Wi-Fi, and NFC capabilities. For a pocketable rugged camera, check out the newest waterproof Coolpix AW120 cameras. They go as deep as 59 feet underwater, are shock- and freeze-proof, with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS to boot. Both cameras are shipping now, with free two-day delivery. This week's best deals: Get a free fitted leather-like case with the purchase of a Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II (you'll have to sign in to see that deal - sorry!) or RX100 compact camera, an $84.99 value. For a limited time, save up to $60 on Manfrotto camera bags. Until next week - Laura and the GearShop Team
News updates HTC One 2014 leaks, comes with 'Duo Camera' Published on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 12:49:00 AM GMT HTC was expected to launch the successor to last year's flagship HTC One smartphone at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona but it never appeared. Now it seems that the new model will finally see the light of day at an event on the 25th of March, and rumors point to a 'Duo Camera' that will allow users to 'choose where to focus, highlight what you love, soften backgrounds and add 3D effects'. Click through for more information on connect.dpreview.com. Read full story → Dusted off and updated: Nikon D610 review Published on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 4:00:00 PM GMT The D610 is the exact same as the D600 but with a new shutter mechanism that boosts continuous shooting and adds a 'Quiet Continuous' mode. The only other upgrade is an improved auto white balance system. Although the D610 lacks some of the frills, like built-in Wi-Fi, GPS or an articulated LCD, it's a lot of camera for the money. Do the slight updates still make the D610 a compelling option in a growing full-frame market? Find out in our review Read full story → Instagram releases redesigned Android app Published on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 6:30:00 PM GMT The Facebook-owned mobile imaging platform Instagram has launched a revamped version of its Android app. There aren't any new filters, frames or editing options though. The most obvious changes have been made to the design of the user interface. It has adopted the 'flattened' look of the latest Android versions and some OEM software. Learn more Read full story → Instagramer makes $15,000 in one day by selling prints Published on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 9:35:00 PM GMT You still think Instagram is for cat pictures and selfies only? Think again. Forbes published an article on Brooklyn-based photographer Daniel Arnold whose checking account balance was getting alarmingly close to zero when he decided to have a go at selling prints of his images and reached out to his followers. The response was overwhelming. Learn more Read full story → Am I missing something here? An opinion on Nikon's mirrorless strategy Published on Thursday, March 13, 2014 4:00:00 AM GMT Nikon's latest 1 System camera is its most obviously enthusiast-targeted model so far. And yet the signals given off, both by the camera and its associated lens range, are not quite so clear. In this opinion piece, Richard Butler wonders: Just what is Nikon up to? Read full story → Nikon 1 V3 offers improved AF system and faster continuous shooting Published on Thursday, March 13, 2014 4:00:00 AM GMT Nikon has announced the Nikon 1 V3, the latest addition to the company's mirrorless lineup. The V3 sports a new 18.4MP 1"-type CMOS sensor that lacks an AA filter, but has on-chip phase detection that covers nearly 100% of the frame. The V3 can now shoot at 20 fps with continuous AF, and 60 fps with single AF. Other features include twin dial control, a tilting 3-inch touchscreen LCD, manual exposure control, 1080/60p video, and built-in Wi-Fi. Something that's disappeared since the V2 is an electronic viewfinder, which is now an optional extra (depending on region). Read more about the V3. Read full story → Nikon reveals 70-300mm telezoom and 10-30mm powerzoom for 1 system Published on Thursday, March 13, 2014 4:00:00 AM GMT Nikon has announced two lenses for its 1 system mirrorless cameras, in the shape of a 70-300mm ultra-telephoto zoom and a compact 10-30mm powerzoom. The 1 Nikkor VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 is designed for sports and wildlife shooting, and features optical image stabilisation to counteract camera shake; its SRP is $999.95 / £879.99. Meanwhile the 1 Nikkor VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom is a compact lens with electronic zoom control that will come in a kit with the 1 V3 camera, or be sold separately with an SRP of $299.95 / £249.99.  Read full story → Mirrorless marvel? A quick look at the Nikon 1 V3 Published on Thursday, March 13, 2014 4:00:28 AM GMT Nikon's 1-System cameras have tended to slip under the radar of most enthusiasts. The company's new V3 mirrorless camera is Nikon's attempt to change that, with its impressive AF and burst shooting specs and more customizable controls. We were able to spend some time with the Nikon 1 V3 and have put together a quick overview of the camera for your reading pleasure. Read full story → Chicago-based Calumet Photographic closes U.S. stores Published on Thursday, March 13, 2014 6:05:00 PM GMT Calumet Photographic announced today on Facebook that the company is closing all of its U.S. stores and has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, effective immediately. According to the statement, posted below, European branches will continue to operate. Calumet’s website and Twitter account are no longer available. Learn more Read full story → Samsung explains the Galaxy S5's ISOCELL sensor Published on Thursday, March 13, 2014 7:45:00 PM GMT Samsung revealed its innovative ISOCELL image sensor technology in September last year, but it has taken until now for the concept to be applied in a device. The Galaxy S5, announced at Mobile World Congress, is the first smartphone from the Korean manufacturer that comes with an ISOCELL camera. Check out the video from Samsung that explains the technology in more detail. See video Read full story → Nikon D4s unboxing: It's arrived! Published on Thursday, March 13, 2014 8:00:00 PM GMT Officially announced last month, the Nikon D4s is the company's flagship DSLR with serious professional credentials. Although improvements over the D4 might seem relatively subtle, they have been driven by professional feedback from working photographers all over the world. That's why we were so excited to receive a big brown box from Nikon this morning! See the unboxing Read full story → Apple is on camera-engineer hiring spree Published on Friday, March 14, 2014 7:00:00 AM GMT There was one large manufacturer who remained relatively quiet among the flood of smartphone imaging innovations in 2013: Apple. Now the technology giant is looking to hire a range of camera engineers, covering all sections of the imaging pipeline. So by the looks of it, Apple has plans for new camera technology in its future devices. Learn more Read full story → Judge strikes down fine against drone photographer Published on Friday, March 14, 2014 8:00:00 AM GMT In a court case bound to have far-reaching implications for U.S.-based photographers looking to use drones or other model aircraft for commercial shoots, National Transportation Safety Board Judge Patrick G. Geraghty has stuck down an FAA suit against a photographer for his 'reckless' use of a drone. Model aircraft aficionados and photographers alike have reason to celebrate this ruling, though naturally the FAA has announced a decision to appeal. Learn more Read full story → What The Duck #1456 Published on Friday, March 14, 2014 11:31:00 PM GMT We've come to the end of another week here at dpreview, and as our thoughts drift to weekend shooting opportunities, it's time to take things a little less seriously. Aaron Johnson's comic strip ‘What the Duck’ is just the thing, taking a gently satirical look through the lens of a photographically inclined waterfowl. You can find it published here (and in our newsletter) every week; we hope you enjoy it, and your weekend. Read full story → Google's Project Tango camera specs revealed Published on Friday, March 14, 2014 11:35:00 PM GMT We recently reported on Project Tango, an initiative within Google's Advanced Technology and Projects group (ATAP) that looks at 3D-mapping of spaces with smartphones. Today some additional detail about the phone's camera specification was revealed on Myce.com through Google's Chrome issue tracker. Learn more Read full story → Olympus patent hints at selective exposure in 'Live Time' mode Published on Saturday, March 15, 2014 12:55:00 AM GMT Earlier this week, Japanese patent blog Egami reported that Olympus has patented a technology that would allow the photographer to selectively adjust exposure of different scene areas during an exposure. This might allow for a more balanced exposure of scenes where cameras might normally struggle. Click through for an explanation of what we think the patent might mean for photographers.  Read full story → Engineering a Dream: Benjamin Von Wong profile, part 2 Published on Saturday, March 15, 2014 7:01:00 AM GMT In part 1 of our interview with Montreal-based photographer Benjamin Von Wong we asked him about his transition from mining engineer to full-time photographer. In part 2, Von Wong talks about how some of his more famous images were created. Follow the links below to read the concluding part of our interview and take a look at more of Von Wong's dramatic photographs. Learn more Read full story → Behind the scenes: Garry Winogrand at work Published on Sunday, March 16, 2014 12:01:00 AM GMT Filmed as part of a larger documentary, Michael Engler’s 'Contemporary Photography in the USA' features photographer Garry Winogrand just two years before his death in 1984 at the age of 56. Although the Bronx-born photographer is often referred to as a street photographer - perhaps one of the best of his generation - he hated the expression, explaining in the video 'I think it's a stupid term. Street photographer. It doesn’t tell you anything about the photographer or [the] work.' Watch video Read full story → Samsung lens production issues could delay Galaxy S5 Published on Monday, March 17, 2014 4:57:00 PM GMT With its 16MP ISOCELL 1/2.6-inch sensor, F2.2 aperture, 4K video, reflector integrated LED-flash, water-resistant body and hybrid AF-system, the recently announced Samsung Galaxy S5 looks like one of 2014's hottest options for mobile photographers. However problems in the manufacturing process of the S5's new 6-element lens could delay its release in some markets. Learn more  Read full story → VSCO announces $100K scholarship fund for artists Published on Monday, March 17, 2014 5:52:00 PM GMT Visual Supply Co., the makers of the popular VSCO Cam smartphone app, has announced the VSCO Artist Initiative which is a $100,000 (~£60,082/~€71,757) scholarship fund 'providing artists the resources to pursue their creative vision.' If you could do with a few extra dollars to fund your art and think you've got what it takes, you can apply on the VSCO website. Learn more Read full story → Red Giant offers subscription to video editing tools Published on Monday, March 17, 2014 10:33:00 PM GMT Using a similar model as Adobe’s Creative Cloud, video effects maker Red Giant - creators of Trapcode and Magic Bullet - is making their post-production tools and plugins available via subscription. Instead of buying individual software licenses, Red Giant's service called Universe allows you to pay monthly or yearly for access to their suite of products that work in popular video editing software such as Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere. Learn more Read full story → Nikon D4s studio samples added to first-impressions review Published on Monday, March 17, 2014 11:02:28 PM GMT We just added studio test scene images to our First Impressions Review of the Nikon D4s. The D4s is a refined version of Nikon's flagship DSLR, incorporating several changes - large and small - resulting from feedback from professional users. As well as minor ergonomic refinements and a slightly improved video mode the D4s also offers a highest ISO sensitivity of 409,600 (equivalent) - the highest we've ever seen. Click through to see for yourself what that looks like.  Read full story → OM sweet OM: Olympus OM-D E-M10 review Published on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 3:24:00 PM GMT The Olympus OM-D E-M10 is the third incarnation of Olympus' popular range of high-end mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. The E-M10 boasts some impressive DNA, using the same excellent 16MP Four Thirds sensor as its E-M5 sibling. We've been shooting with it extensively over the past few weeks, hoping to find out whether this 'digital' OM is as capable as the two that preceded it. Those are two solid acts to follow - how does the OM-D E-M10 perform? Find out in our review Read full story → Apple releases cheaper 8GB version of iPhone 5c Published on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 6:03:03 PM GMT When Apple launched their latest flagship smartphone, the iPhone 5s, they took the hardware of the predecessor, the iPhone 5, added iOS7 and a new colorful plastic body, and called the new creation the iPhone 5c. The 5c was meant to be a more affordable alternative to the 5s but it appears sales have thus far not met the expectations of Apple executives. Today the tech giant from Cupertino has made a move to fix this and released an 8GB version of the iPhone 5c. Learn more Read full story → Hungarian law bans photos taken without consent Published on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 6:42:00 PM GMT According The Guardian newspaper, a new law in Hungary that took effect on March 15th could have a potentially chilling effect on photographic freedoms in that country. It will make it illegal to take a photograph of someone without their express permission. This new civil code covers anyone in the frame, which means that photographers will have to seek permission from anyone in the foreground or background. Learn more Read full story → Chinese government orders Nikon to stop selling D600 Published on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 8:00:00 PM GMT The Nikon D600 had a rocky introduction in 2012, with countless users noting that the camera often produces images with dust/oil spots. Nowhere though is the D600 having as rough a time as China, were the government has issued an order to Nikon to stop selling the D600 entirely following an investigative report on CCT (China Central Television) that captured dealers trying to avoid refunding money to angry customers. Learn more Read full story → Nikon D4s and Lexar 400x or 1000x memory card problems Published on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 10:30:00 PM GMT According to a Nikon support advisory there are a small number of Lexar 400x or 1000x compact flash memory cards that may have issues communicating with the new D4s camera. Nikon USA's service and support site has outlined how to identify the faulty cards and instructions for replacement. Learn more Read full story →
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