Photo Accessory News

Tamrac’s Evolution Series
Tamrac’s new Evolution series merges backpack and sling bag in a convertible design that facilitates access when the pack is worn. The bag has a fully customizable, padded lower camera section, plus upper tier for personal items, and will hold a tripod. The Evolution 8 also holds a 15.6” laptop. And for you messenger bag lovers, Tamrac offers the Evolution Messenger 4, which holds a D-SLR with lens attached, plus additional lenses and accessories inside a removable foam-padded insert. A 15.6” laptop sits alongside the insert. The zippered top opens away from the body for fast access, and the bag has a trolley sleeve. Street prices range from $99-$149.

Contact: Tamrac, Inc., 9240 Jordan Ave., Chatsworth, CA 91311; (800) 662-0717; www.tamrac.com.

Nikon’s “L”-Series COOLPIX Cameras
Nikon recently introduced two new compact cameras to their COOLPIX line. The L110 features a 15x optical zoom lens that covers a 28-420mm super-telephoto focal range, a 3” high-resolution LCD screen, a five-way Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization System, and Nikon’s Best Shot Selector. The L110 is available in red or black, uses four AA lithium batteries, and has an MSRP of $279.95. The L22 model has a 3” LCD screen, a 3.6x zoom lens, VR Image Stabilization, and an Auto Scene Selector feature. Available in black, red, blue, and champagne silver, the L22 has an MSRP of $129.95.

Contact: Nikon Inc., 1300 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747; (800) 645-6689; www.nikonusa.com.

The RL3d Viewfinder Camera From ARCA-SWISS
The RL3d is a state-of-the-art professional viewfinder camera that allows you to capture high-resolution images both digitally and on film. This lightweight, compact camera offers All In Plane vertical and horizontal shift and captures images in various formats up to 4x5”. The optional electronic module can calculate and display data relating to level, distance from the subject and focused distance, and depth of field. The RL3d is easy to use and doesn’t require a tripod. The suggested retail price is $6490.

Contact: ARCA-SWISS, Inc.; (773) 248-2513; e-mail: arcaswiss@aol.com.

Titanium PhotoFrames From Hoodman
Designed for photographers who wear prescription glasses, these frames feature a unique hinge that allows each lens to flip up and out of the way of the camera’s viewfinder. Lightweight and durable, the frames employ titanium memory wire technology and offer comfortable wraparound earpieces. Simply ask your optometrist to insert your prescription lenses and you’re ready to shoot. The suggested retail price is $199.99.

Contact: Hoodman Corporation, 20445 Gramercy Place, Ste. #201, Torrance, CA 90501; (800) 818-3946; www.hoodmanusa.com.