09/01/2010 - Free Ground Shipping on Feisol Tripods: Feisol are currently running a "Free Ground Shipping" on any order special through 9/7/2010, to the lower 48 states. Full details can be found at: feisol.net.

We've been using our Feisol CT-3442 ultra-light weight tripod extensively over the summer, very highly recommended. Read More about Free Ground Shipping on Feisol Tripods

08/26/2010 - Canon EOS 60D, 6 Lenses, 2 Teleconverters: Today Canon has announced possibly the most anticipated and rumored camera ever, the 60D, as well as 6 new lenses and two teleconverters.

Highlights for the EOS 60D include an 18 megapixel sensor with base ISO range of 100-6,400 (extended range to ISO 12,800), a new 1 million dot tilt/swivel LCD, and full HD video (1080 in 24p, 25p or 30p). The max frame rate is a reasonable 5.3 f.p.s., and and it features a 9-point AF system. The camera should be available towards the end of September, with an M.S.R.P. of $1,099 (body only).

As for the lenses:

• Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM - available January 2011, approx $1,400.
• Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM - available Late October, approx $1,500.
• Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM - available December, approx $7,000.
• Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM - available December, approx $11,000.
• Canon Extender EF 1.4x III - available December, approx $500.
• Canon Extender EF 2x III - available December, approx $500.
• 500mm f4L IS II - prototype will be at Photokina, no word on pricing/availability.
• 600mm f4L IS II - prototype will be at Photokina, no word on pricing/availability.

Nikon is expected to announce the D90 replacement in the next few weeks (likely called the D7000), which should be priced about the same (the D90 was $999, rumors put the D7000 anywhere from $999 to $1,199), so these two cameras will be going pretty much head to head.

Read More about Canon EOS 60D, 6 Lenses, 2 Teleconverters

08/19/2010 - Nikon D3100 and Four New Lenses: The heavily rumored Nikon D3100 is now official, complete with 14mp sensor and focusing during 1080 video capture. This makes it both the most advanced DSLR video offering from Nikon, and the highest pixel density (meaning more pixels on target for telephoto users), despite being the bottom of the line camera effectively replacing the D3000.

It's still hampered by the slow 11-point AF system the D3000 had, but even so highlights how much the rest of the DX line needs updating (it out-specs the D5000, D90 and D300s on both megapixels and video).

As for the 4 new lenses, we have:

• A new 85mm f1.4G (new optical design, AF-S focusing, nano coating, misses VR, but adds about $400 to street prices over the current at $1650). The current 85mm f1.4D is a lens I use a lot, and my only minor complaint is focusing speed when taking sports pictures in badly-lit gyms. For its main use as a portrait lens I'm personally very happy with my current results - this may be a lens I'd be interested in down the road if the focusing speed is noticeably improved.
• An AF-S DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR, for 55-200mm users that want more reach. At $399.95 it is slightly cheaper than the excellent 70-300mm lens, and is presumably smaller since it works only with DX sensors (unlike the FX compatible 70-300mm). If it is up to the 70-300mm optically, this could be a very nice lens.
• The AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR for FX users is roughly equivalent to the 18-200mm for DX users, so a good lens for people who don't want to change lenses. Will likely be popular with a lot of consumer D700 users, but any lens with that focal length range (almost 11x) is going to have a lot of compromises optically. M.S.R.P. is $1049.95.
• Being a constant aperture 5x zoom, the AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR should optically be a much better walk-around lens for FX users than the 28-300mm, plus the extra 4mm on the wide end make a huge difference for street photography. Pair this lens with the current Nikon 70-300mm lens and you should have a very capable and relatively light-weight setup. M.S.R.P. is $1299.95, but for a lot of D700 and D3 series users, this will become their primary lens.

Overall a good step for Nikon - the D3000 didn't exactly set the world alight when it was announced last year, but the D3100 looks to be a big step forward, and instantly becomes Nikon's most advanced DSLR video offering, and highest pixel density camera.

For DX users, the 55-300mm should be a very interesting and affordable lens.

For FX users, the 85mm f1.4G is a specialized lens, although the current lens is superb, it remains to be seen how many people will upgrade. The Nano-coated 24-120mm is effectively a must-have for any prosumer or pro that wants a lighter walk-around lens that performs. The 28-300mm is for the more consumer oriented FX user that doesn't like carrying extra lenses and doesn't mind the f5.6 maximum aperture at the long end. Read More about Nikon D3100 and Four New Lenses

08/10/2010 - New Products from Hejnar PHOTO: In the past week, Hejnar PHOTO has launched 3 new products:

6" Arca-Style Rail with Integrated Clamp (Part E-001a):

4" Arca-Style Rail (Part A004a):

3.25" Arca-Style Rail (Part A007a):

All three rails are made in the U.S.A. from 6061-T6 Aluminum, and feature a durable black anodized finish. The rails are all Arca-Swiss compatible, and feature a 'double dovetail' design giving two clamping surfaces (so you can clap to the top or bottom of the rail).

The rails also feature safety stops, to prevent the rails sliding out should a clamp accidentally come loose.

Full details for these and other products from Hejnar PHOTO can be found at their . Read More about New Products from Hejnar PHOTO

06/07/2010 - Hejnar PHOTO releases L-Bracket for Nikon D40, D50 and D60: Hejnar PHOTO is now shipping it's first L-Bracket, for the Nikon D40, D40X, D50 and D60 cameras. The L-Bracket measures 3.875 inch long by 3.062 high, and at 1.5 inches wide is designed to work with the various Arca-Style clamps on from the leading manufacturers. It weighs 3.2 oz (90 g). The unit is made in the U.S.A. from 6061-T6 Aluminum, with a black hard anodized finish.

By simply removing one screw with the supplied hex key, the L-bracket dissembled and can be used as a regular camera plate.

Using an L-Bracket has numerous advantages. Most ball heads come with a slot to allow you to rotate the camera 90° from landscape to portrait orientations, and while this works, you end up with an off-center load that is more prone to vibration, you typically have to recompose your shot, and your viewfinder drops by several inches. Using an L-Bracket instead solves these problems completely.

The new Hejnar PHOTO L-Bracket is available directly from . Read More about Hejnar PHOTO releases L-Bracket for Nikon D40, D50 and D60

05/18/2010 - New Hejnar Photo Clamps and More Rails: Hejnar PHOTO continues today with some more new Arca compatible product releases, this time 3 different sizes of clamp, two new rails designed to accommodate the clamps without twisting, and a spacer.

The new clamps come in 3 sizes (1.5", 2.375" and 3.25"):

1.5" Clamp

2.375" Clamp

3.25" Clamp

• Center socket is countersunk on top but also threaded 3⁄8"-16.
• Two outside holes are taped 1/4-20
• Clamp includes two safety stop relief grooves. This prevents free fall when the clamp is not closed.
• Knob is captive. Knob stops at maximum opening - cannot be lost in the field
• Knob is made from one part aluminum. No room for dust or sand.
• Back side has groove to match some ball heads connection and preventing it from twisting.
• Made from 6061-T6 Aluminum.
• Black hard coat anodized clamp and clear anodized knob.
• Made in USA.

In addition, two new rails designed to work with these (and other manufacturers) clamps are available:

6.5" Clamp Rail

6.5" Rail with Clamp installed.

8" Rail with both Clamp and optional Spacer installed

The rails come with two 2 dowel pins (shown in left picture above) that can be inserted to prevent the clamp from twisting loose. An optional 1/4" spacer is also available to give extra height if needed. Rail Features:

• 1.5 inch wide
• 1/2 inch thick
• One captive style slot.
• One 1/4-20 taped hole.
• Metric mm scale engraved.
• Double-dovetail design allows for dual clamping surfaces on rail
• One safety stop. This prevents free fall when the clamp is not fully closed. (M3 screws)
• Made from 6061-T6 Aluminum.
• Made in USA
• Black Anodized.
• Can be used with various clamps.
• One captive style screw. Screw will be about 0.3 above plate surface. If you are planning of using plate with blind hole please check depth of it. You may need shorter screw.

These new products are in addition to the products released last week, which include a 90° block for joining rails at a 90° angle, and new, lighter 8" and 12" rails that both feature a 1/4" x 20 threaded hole in the end:

90° Block

12" Rail.

8" Rail showing threaded hole in end.

Hejnar PHOTO products are available directly from the manufacturer via the .

We actually use Hejnar PHOTO in our photography business, to see reviews of select Hejnar PHOTO items please see our Tripods & Support Gear Guide.

Read More about New Hejnar Photo Clamps and More Rails

05/17/2010 - New Hejnar PHOTO 90 Degree Block for Arca Rails: Another new product from Hejnar PHOTO, a 90° block to join two Arca-Style rails at a 90° angle:

Features Include:

• 1.25 inch long
• 1.0 inch wide
• Weight 1.4 oz (39g)
• Two 1/4 -20 taped holes
• Made from 6061-T6 Aluminum.
• Made in USA
• Black Anodized.
• All the corners and edges are rounded for the safety.

The 90° block can be purchased directly from .

Read More about New Hejnar PHOTO 90 Degree Block for Arca Rails

05/14/2010 - New Improved Arca Multi Purpose Rails from Hejnar Photo: Hejnar PHOTO is now shipping two new Arca-Style Multi Purpose Rails in 8 inch and 12 inch lengths.

Improving on the previous design, the new rails are lighter, and feature a threaded hole in the end (1/4" x 20) as shown below:

Hejnar PHOTO Rails are available directly from the manufacturer via the

Read More about New Improved Arca Multi Purpose Rails from Hejnar Photo

05/06/2010 - 1,000,000 Hits: Yesterday marked a milestone for DentonImages.com.

This site was originally conceived in the summer of 2008 while sitting on a hillside in Yellowstone photographing a black bear. Some groundwork was laid for the site in 2008, but DentonImages.com didn't really get started properly until last year. Now just over a year later, we've hit our first major milestone, passing the 1,000,000 hits mark with visitors from over 200 countries. This is in addition to well over 1,000 daily hits on our RSS feeds.

I'd like to thank everyone that has helped make this possible, and with our continued month-on-month growth, this is just the beginning. Over the next few months we'll continue to fill out our gear guides, before starting on several new projects later in the year... Read More about 1,000,000 Hits

05/03/2010 - Special Offer from Feisol USA: Feisol USA are offering free shipping for the next couple of weeks, to celebrate their new generation of Tripods and Monopods with RAL anti-rotation legs (see our review of the CT-3442 RAL).

See Fiesol.net for details.

Closing in on Perfection: Introducing the New Generation of FEISOL Tripods and Monopods

The new generation of FEISOL Tripods and Monopods inherits all these phenomenal characteristics from their ancestors but bear exciting news: In keeping with FEISOL's tradition of striving to perfect what is already superb, FEISOL Engineers have developed our new Rapid Locking Technology for the just released new FEISOL Tripod and Monopod models.

And while they were at it, they re-designed the twist locks. The result is a "must-experience" smooth handling: The new system allows for effortless one-handed instant set-up and breakdown by eliminating annoying leg rotation when the twist locks are released, and delivers this with a pleasing new feel, thus managing to save time and effort without sacrificing performance - A classic win-win proposition.

FREE SHIPPING

04/28/2010 - Nikon 200-400mm Updated: Nikon does a minor update to the 200-400mm f4 Lens, updating VR, and adding Nano coating and new A/M switch/focus mode. No optical changes. Oh, and the price has been bumped almost $1,000 (street prices) to $6,999.99.

Press Release:

NIKON FOCUSES ON EXCEPTIONAL IMAGE QUALITY AT SUPER-TELEPHOTO FOCAL LENGTHS WITH NEW AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II HIGH POWER PROFESSIONAL ZOOM LENS

"The AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm lens builds upon a proven design for professional level optics by incorporating the latest Nikon lens technologies to give photographers the edge in the field, and the ability to capture the most intricate of details with extraordinary fidelity," said Lisa Osorio, general manager of Marketing at Nikon Inc. "As both camera capabilities and the roles of photographers expand, NIKKOR enhancements will continue to meet demands and exceed expectations to remain the pinnacle of optical excellence for all types of photographers."

Whether photographing the decisive play at home plate or predators of the Serengeti, the 200-400mm f/4 lens is an essential tool for photographers who require long focal lengths and maximum versatility without sacrificing image quality. The 200-400mm lens benefits from the addition of Nikon's proprietary Nano Crystal Coat to reduce instances of ghosting and flaring. The result is unparalleled clarity and sharpness in challenging lighting environments typical to sports venues or harsh sunlight.

Additionally, this new NIKKOR lens features Nikon VR II image stabilization, which is specifically engineered for each lens for maximum performance. VR II is a valuable asset to those shooting photos or HD video, as image blur introduced by camera shake and telephoto magnification is significantly reduced. Users are able to shoot up to four stops* slower than otherwise possible, overcoming many of the challenges of handheld shooting with such extreme focal lengths. VR functionality is further augmented with Automatic Panning Detection and an Active VR Mode to help compensate for movement from an unstable position such as a moving vehicle. Additionally, VR is always engaged when shooting in the D-Movie mode on select Nikon D-SLRs, helping to stabilize HD video capture.

The new 200-400mm f/4 lens features a host of professional focusing features to further enhance functionality. Photographers can now select from three focus modes to match shooting conditions, including manual mode (M) and autofocus with manual override (M/A) mode, and new A/M mode which is used to avoid cancelling the AF setting by unintentionally moving the focus ring while shooting. The M/A and A/M focus modes enhance AF control with fast, secure switching from automatic and manual focus to adapt to personal shooting preference and techniques. Additionally, photographers can activate the AF Recall Mode at the press of a button that allows for instant return to a predetermined point of focus to confidently capture anticipated shots.

This professional lens is constructed of die-cast magnesium for maximum durability and is sealed to resist dust and moisture, with protective Meniscus glass to safeguard the lens' front element. The optical formula features four Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements for superior sharpness, color and image quality, while minimizing chromatic aberration. The lens also features Nikon's exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, which enables high-speed autofocus performance with exceptional accuracy and powerful, super-quiet operation. Nikon's Super Integrated Coating further suppresses flare and offers superior color consistency throughout the frame.

The AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers in late May 2010 with an estimated selling price of $6,999.95**. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

With a comprehensive assortment of FX and DX-format lenses and focal lengths, from the new ultra-wide 10-24mm to the super telephoto 600mm VR, Nikon photographers have come to rely upon the NIKKOR core technologies that contribute to their optical superiority. NIKKOR is the brand name for Nikon's photographic lenses, which are precision crafted to the most exacting standards in Nikon's own glassworks. In 1933, Nikon marketed its first camera lens under the NIKKOR brand name, the "Aero-NIKKOR" for aerial photography applications. Since then, NIKKOR has been used as a brand name for Nikon's lenses that symbolizes durability, high image quality and optical excellence.

Nikon, At the Heart of the Image. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN® digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-UX or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

*As determined in Nikon performance tests

**Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

04/28/2010 - New Nikon VR 200mm/f2G ED-IF Lens Foot from Hejnar PHOTO: Hejnar Photo continues to roll out new Arca-type products, today launching a replacement foot for the Nikon VR 200mm/f2G ED-IF Lens:

The replacement foot incorporates a double-dovetail. Plates with dual clamping surfaces, both top and bottom, can take advantage of both Really Right Stuff flash brackets, and Wimberley brackets. This foot has enough clearance for your fingers under the lens to freely use the lens focusing ring, although it does not allow hood reversal for storage.

Specification:

• 5.00 inch long
• 1.5 inch wide
• Weight = 3.2 oz / 92 g
• 1.125 height.
• 1/4-20 and 3/8-16 taped holes
• Two safety stops. This prevents free fall when the clamp is not fully closed. (M3 screws)
• Made from 6061-T6 Aluminum.
• Made in USA
• Black Anodized.

Hejnar PHOTO products can be purchased directly from the manufacturer via the . Read More about New Nikon VR 200mm/f2G ED-IF Lens Foot from Hejnar PHOTO

04/28/2010 - VANGUARD Camera Bags Earn Prestigious TIPA Award: UP-Rise Series Named 2010 Best Photo Bag:

VANGUARD Camera Bags Earn Prestigious TIPA Award: UP-Rise Series Named 2010 Best Photo Bag

Whitmore Lake, Mich. – VANGUARD, one of the global leaders in photo-video accessories, today announced its UP-Rise Series camera bags have earned a prestigious TIPA award.

The best imaging products of 2010 were voted on by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) General Assembly held in early April in New York City. The editors of about thirty of the top photo magazines from around the world selected the best imaging products of the year.

UP-Rise Series bags were voted the "Best Photo Bag 2010" for its innovative ability to expand in size and its versatile use.

UP-Rise Series, available in messenger, zoom, shoulder, sling and backpack styles, breaks the mold of camera bag standards with its innovative ability to expand in size to accommodate changing lens and gear needs. One easy zipper motion enables expansion; it shrinks back down when the extra room is no longer needed. UP-Rise has a sleek, sporty design with an orange interior, making it easy to spot loose gear. Other features include removable rain coats and multiple pockets for extra memory cards and lens caps.

Messenger bags are ultra-padded and double as camera/lens gear bags or regular messenger bags for toting office paperwork. They hold a laptop and have completely customizable interiors with super soft, thick padding. Their Rapid Access System features top and front retrieval points, so users never miss the action from fumbling over their stowed cameras. Protective tabs prevent shoulder strap hooks from scratching gear when retrieving it from and returning it to the bag.

UP-Rise sling bags enable users to retrieve their camera and shoot in less than six seconds with their Quick Zip back and side access points.

UP-Rise bags are available at street prices of $49-149 (USD). More information about UP-Rise is available at www.vanguardworld.com. More information about the award is available on www.tipa.com.

VANGUARD products are distributed in more than 60 countries worldwide.

About VANGUARD

04/27/2010 - Custom Brackets CB Gimbal Flash Mount: The New Flash Bracket for Custom Brackets excellent CB Gimbal (see CB Gimbal Review) should begin shipping at the beginning of May. Full details can be found at Custom Brackets website.

04/26/2010 - Leica S2 Firmware Version 1.0.0.16:

Just Released: Leica S2 Firmware Version 1.0.0.16

Release Notes:

Extended camera functionality

·         Additional HMI white balance preset added (Hydrargyrum Medium-arc Iodide lamps)
·         Additional viewfinder information: exposure correction
·         Custom setting for depth of field preview button
·         Selectable OLED screen standby time
·         Control element lock (shutter speed and aperture dials can now be locked to prevent inadvertent shifts)
·         Extended user-defined button programming (the stop-down button can now also be programmed)

Improvements in existing functionality and handling

·         Consistent, continuous image numbering
·         Accelerated data transfer speed for computer-tethered shooting
·         Increased compatibility with memory cards not formatted in the camera
·         Improved handling for selection of exposure modes
·         Compatibility with new Leica Summarit-S 35mm and 120mm lenses
·         Improvement in JPEG image quality
·         Automatic detection of interchangeable focusing screens
·         Improved image viewing on the camera display
·         Simplified image review selection

Click for more info and download links: Leica S2 Firmware Version 1.0.0.16. Read More about Leica S2 Firmware Version 1.0.0.16

04/26/2010 - Olympus E-P1 Firmware Version 1.4:

Just Released: Olympus E-P1 Firmware Version 1.4

Release Notes:

Auto Focus Performance

Viewfinder/LCD Simultaneous Playback Function

Movie-Still-Compatible (MSC) Lens Compatibility

Click for more info and download links: Olympus E-P1 Firmware Version 1.4. Read More about Olympus E-P1 Firmware Version 1.4

04/26/2010 - Olympus E-P2 Firmware Version 1.1:

Just Released: Olympus E-P2 Firmware Version 1.1

Release Notes:

Auto Focus Performance

Viewfinder/LCD Simultaneous Playback Function

Movie-Still-Compatible (MSC) Lens Compatibility

Click for more info and download links: Olympus E-P2 Firmware Version 1.1. Read More about Olympus E-P2 Firmware Version 1.1

04/26/2010 - Olympus PEN E-PL1 Firmware Version 1.1:

Just Released: Olympus PEN E-PL1 Firmware Version 1.1

Release Notes:

Auto Focus Performance

Viewfinder/LCD Simultaneous Playback Function

Movie-Still-Compatible (MSC) Lens Compatibility

Click for more info and download links: Olympus PEN E-PL1 Firmware Version 1.1. Read More about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Firmware Version 1.1

04/26/2010 - Pentax K2000 Firmware Version 1.11:

Just Released: Pentax K2000 Firmware Version 1.11

Release Notes:

Click for more info and download links: Pentax K2000 Firmware Version 1.11. Read More about Pentax K2000 Firmware Version 1.11

04/26/2010 - Pentax K200D Firmware Version 1.01:

Just Released: Pentax K200D Firmware Version 1.01

Release Notes:

Click for more info and download links: Pentax K200D Firmware Version 1.01. Read More about Pentax K200D Firmware Version 1.01