News

Nikon Inc. has announced version 4.3.1 updater of their Capture RAW (NEF) image
processing software. A complimentary copy of the update is available for current
users of version 4.2.x; if using version 4 that is earlier than 4.2, customers
must first upgrade to Version 4.2 and then install the new updater. All Version
4.x updaters are complimentary for owners of the full Version 4.0 and higher.
Upon installing the Capture 4.3.1 update, the D2X, D2HS, D70S, and D50 digital
SLR cameras, as well as earlier Nikon D-Series digital SLR cameras and their
NEF files will be supported. A highlight for the new updater is its significantly
faster performance for NEF operation. Depending upon the platform (Mac or PC),
CPU, and processes in use, this latest updater for Capture software delivers
increased processing speeds ranging from 11% up to 40%, compared to previous
versions.



A key component of Nikon's Total Imaging System, Capture software enables
photographers to perform comprehensive image processing and editing on NEF (RAW)
files produced by their Nikon digital SLR cameras as well as NEF files generated
from Nikon scanners or converted NEF files that have been generated from JPEG
or TIFF file formats. The NEF file structure has been idealized for operation
within the Nikon Total Imaging System. Key imaging data from the Nikon camera
is embedded within the NEF, and is available to strengthen the image processing
capabilities of Nikon Capture software. This nexus of Camera to NEF to Capture
embodies a key element of the Nikon Total Imaging System's ability to
optimize image quality.



www.nikonusa.com

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Olympus has introduced two new SP-series digital cameras, the 7.0-megapixel
SP-310 and the 8.0-megapixel SP-350. Both cameras offer the option of either
manual settings for creative control or 30 selectable shooting modes, along
with optional add-on accessory lenses, an optional underwater housing, and a
large, easy-to-view 2.5-inch premium size LCD.

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Eastman Kodak Company has announced that its innovative EASYSHARE-ONE zoom
digital camera would be available for purchase this October. The company has
also developed a new, interactive tour of the EASYSHARE-ONE camera, available
at http://www.kodak.com/go/easyshare-one/.
In addition to providing 360-degree views of the camera, the MACROMEDIA FLASH
micro-site highlights the multiple ways in which people can easily share, take,
edit, organize, and print their pictures, all wirelessly.



Kodak
is working with the world's leading wireless companies to make sharing
pictures across town, across the country, or across the globe as easy and convenient
as possible. All EASYSHARE-ONE camera purchasers receive a complementary, camera-specific
trial service in conjunction with major hotspot providers. In addition to service
from T-Mobile USA, with more than 6,000 T-Mobile HotSpots across the United
States, EASYSHARE-ONE camera owners will also be able to enjoy public connections
in other key areas. Kodak plans to announce further market-specific service
providers, as well as retailers that will sell the EASYSHARE-ONE camera, in
the coming weeks.



Kodak designed the EASYSHARE-ONE model (US$599 MSRP) including the KODAK WI-FI
Card specifically for sharing, moving the camera experience from "point-and-shoot"
to "point-and-share." · It allows users to have E-mail and
online picture sharing without a computer, using a direct, wireless connection
to the KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery service. By connecting to the Gallery through
a compatible home or public network, people can upload pictures and videos for
near instantaneous electronic sharing with friends around the world.



More information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare.

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Delsey has cut out the bulk and crafted its line of GOPIX bags and cases around
the evolving technology and the user, providing carrying solutions that make
it easier to get up and go without being weighed down by a larger than necessary
bag. The new GOPIX 50 is suitable for compact digital cameras, video cameras
or even a CD player. The GOPIX 50 has enough storage for six CDs and features
external zippered side pockets and an opening for an earphone connection. The
bag is very light, weighing approximately .60 pounds and, like the entire GOPIX
line, features a compact design with measurements of 4" (L) x 2 3/4"
(W) x 6" (H).



The new GOPIX 77 is ideal for a digital still, a 35mm SLR with multiple lenses
or a video camera. All exterior zippers are designed with a reverse closure
system creating an external and internal water-resistant cover. The GOPIX 77
also features exterior zippered side pockets, an internal zippered mesh pouch
and a zippered back pocket. The GOPIX 77 has external dimensions of 6 1/2 "(L)
x 5" (W) x 10" (H) and internal dimensions of 6 1/4" (L) x
4 3/4" (W) x 8 1/4"(H). With a comfortable padded hand grip and shoulder
strap, the GOPIX 77 is great for the photographer on the go, weighing approximately
1 pound.

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MAGIX has announced the new MAGIX Photostory on CD & DVD 4. By automatically
fixing photos and adding exciting 3D transitions, fades, effects and sounds,
the software turns simple photo collections into multimedia slideshows. Slideshows
can then be easily burned onto CD or DVD and viewed on any TV or computer screen.
MAGIX Photostory on CD & DVD 4 will be available in stores for $39.99 starting
September 15th and online at www.magix.com starting September 8th.



MAGIX Photostory on CD & DVD 4 lets you quickly and easily transform holiday
memories, family, party, and Internet photos into 3D slideshows in just three
easy steps: Import photos; edit them with transitions, zooms, music, and text;
and burn onto DVD or CD



The slideshows can also be uploaded to the free MAGIX Online Photo Album site
at www.magix.com directly from the software, where photos can be viewed in fullscreen
mode with music. Photo products can also be ordered directly from the site as
well as from the software on premium paper, calendars, t-shirts, and mugs, etc.
The site also has an Online Content Library to enrich your slideshow with stock
photos. Photos on CD & DVD 4 also burns DVD player-compatible JPEG discs
for fast playback optimized for TV viewing.



MAGIX Photostory on CD & DVD 4 will be available in stores for $39.99 starting
September 15th and online at www.magix.com
starting September 8th. See www.magix.com
for more info.
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As America struggles to cope with the devastation and loss caused by Hurricane
Katrina, Professional Photographers of America (PPA) has taken unprecedented steps
to assist photographers in the affected areas. Yesterday the PPA Board of Directors
guaranteed up to $200,000 for the recently established PPA Disaster Relief Fund,
as the Association continues its fundraising efforts.



"With more than 250 PPA members in the stricken areas of Alabama, Mississippi
and Louisiana, PPA knows firsthand of the destruction caused by this hurricane,"
said Ann Monteith, PPA President. "We all watched in shock and sadness as
the scope of the damage unfolded, and we felt compelled to find a way to directly
help PPA members affected by this disaster as soon as possible. We will continue
fundraising in hopes that we can surpass the $200,000 mark."



PPA's relief fund was established last week through PPA Charities, a 501(c)(3)
organization. The original intent was to disburse the money collected to disaster
relief agencies. PPA's Board of Directors, in response to requests from
PPA members, voted this week to shift the focus of the relief fund so that it
will now be used to provide direct aid to PPA member photographers. The fund will
distribute $1,000 to each PPA member studio directly affected by Hurricane Katrina.



"PPA's members have a long history of pulling together to help each
other in times of crisis," said PPA CEO, David Trust. "PPA's
Disaster Relief Fund is another example of our members' commitment to one
another and their spirit of generosity and compassion."



In addition to directly assisting its members, PPA is contributing $10,000 ($5,000
each) to its two state Affiliates in the hard-hit areas, Professional Photographers
of Louisiana and Professional Photographers of Mississippi-Alabama. These Affiliates
will use the contributions to directly assist their members.



To request a studio grant, PPA members in the disaster areas should call PPA at
1-800-786-6277 and ask to speak with a Disaster Relief assistant. They will be
asked to provide information and details including name, studio name and address,
temporary location information, brief description of damage/loss, where the grant
money can be sent or wired, and how they can currently be reached.



How Others Can Help

PPA is challenging its other members, along with vendors and suppliers in the
industry, to join forces with PPA by contributing to the relief fund. Contributions
can be made by sending a check payable to PPA Charities to Disaster Relief, c/o
Professional Photographers of America, 229 Peachtree Street, Suite 2200, Atlanta,
GA, 30303. Please note "Disaster Relief" on the check.


PPA also needs your help getting the word out about the Disaster Relief Fund.
If you know of anyone who has been directly affected by the hurricane, please
do whatever you can to get information to them about the relief fund so they can
receive assistance right away. Please also encourage photographers with useful
information to share it on the Hurricane Katrina Forum on OurPPA.com.



PPA Charities is a charitable, non-profit, 501(c) (3) organization that allows
imaging professionals to combine their individual efforts to make an impact on
the lives of children and families everywhere. It also allows PPA to become a
force for positive change in our society and to make a difference in the lives
of others. For more information about PPA Charities, visit charities.ppa.com.



Professional Photographers of America (PPA), the world's largest and most
influential photographic and imaging trade organization, exists to assist its
more than 14,000 members in achieving their professional, artistic, and fraternal
goals; to promote public awareness of the profession; and to advance the making
of images in all of its disciplines as an art, a science and a visual recorder
of history. For more information about PPA, visit www.ppa.com.
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