Canon’s 7D, released in late September 2009, produces beautiful still shots and is equipped with a durable, dust-resistant body. Its biggest selling point, though, is its video feature. The 7D shoots full HD video in 24, 25 and 30p and is equipped with several manual controls to allow for further customization. Currently offering what some may consider to be the best in video technology on a DSLR, Canon is generating huge sales, even luring in former Nikon users looking to expand into and experiment with video.

But that isn’t to say that Nikon is not enjoying enormous success itself. While its biggest competitor has joined other camera companies in the race to increase megapixels, Nikon has opted to concentrate on making pixels larger, not just adding more of them. This, in turn, has given Nikon the leg up in ISO technology, making the most attractive feature of the D3s its ISO capabilities of up to 120,400. Nikon’s cameras consistently outperform others in low light situations and now, with the D3s released in November 2009, some could argue they’ve even outperformed themselves (the previous D3 model had a maximum 25,600 ISO setting).

Moving into 2010, these models are regarded as the top digital SLRs in features, performance and value. One can only imagine what these companies will come up with next. But for now, you can expect to see photos of the highest quality, shot by pros and amateurs alike, on everything from Facebook to Flickr to Snapixel.

“New SLR technology has significantly improved the quality of digital photographs” said Ivan Wong, Snapixel’s Chief Operations Officer, who subsequently is an active photographer. “However, while much can be said for post production technologies, great photography always starts with a great eye.”

Since the release of these cameras, Snapixel has seen a significant upward trend in high resolution images added to their site by photographers who share their photos and submit their work to the marketplace. Snapixel members are also encouraged to submit their photos to appear in the company’s monthly magazine, which offers a unique opportunity for exposure. It is on this platform, at least, that the work of Canon and Nikon rivals can exist peacefully, side by side.

© 2010, The F Stops Here. All rights reserved. (Jessica D. Korman)

Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of the American Indian

Washington, D.C. (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 13, 2009 — A longtime Rochester Institute of Technology event that highlights the spirit of community and volunteerism while generating a spectacular nighttime photograph heads to Washington, D.C., next month

The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian will be the subject of RIT’s 25th Big Shot photograph on Saturday, Sept. 26. The Big Shot photography project relies on the participation of hundreds of volunteers to provide the primary light source for the image while photographers shoot an extended exposure. Past Big Shot projects have attracted up to 1,200 volunteers. Faculty members from RIT’s School of Photographic Arts and Sciences and the National Technical Institute for the Deaf are the main organizers of the event.

RIT students, faculty, staff and alumni will join the Washington, D.C., community and museum members in this volunteer effort. Volunteers will meet outside the museum at 7:45 p.m. There is no pre-registration required. Volunteers need to bring either a flashlight or camera flash unit and are asked to wear dark clothing. Participants will receive a memento print of the final photograph compliments of Nikon Inc.

The museum will be the subject of the Big Shot photograph with the Washington Monument in the background. The National Museum of the American Indian is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its opening on the National Mall, which is located just south of the U.S. Capitol. The unique architecture of the building is the culmination of many discussions and meetings with Native communities and individuals throughout the Western hemisphere.

The museum’s unique curvilinear design evokes the mesas and canyons of the Southwest and gives the appearance of being weathered by wind and water. The exterior is clad in a Kasota limestone quarried from Minnesota and is a warm buff color that has several finishes to suggest the building grew out of the landscape.

“I can’t think of a more fun way to celebrate,” says Kevin Gover (Pawnee/Comanche), director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. “I hope everyone in the Washington Metropolitan area shows up and participates.”

RIT faculty and students, including those of Native American descent, are looking forward to participating in this milestone event. Jason Younker (Coquille Indian Tribe), assistant to the provost for Native American Relations and RIT assistant professor of anthropology, says the Big Shot will be one of the highlights of his academic career.

“The Big Shot will recognize the contributions of Native Americans both past and present,” adds Younker. “It will bring together current and former students from RIT and emphasize the university’s commitment to indigenous peoples of North America. For the Big Shot to be held at the Smithsonian’s Museum of the American Indian is significant and will certainly be a pinnacle for this RIT tradition.”

Since RIT started its Big Shot project in 1987, the event has hopscotched to several national landmarks and twice crossed the Atlantic Ocean. Through their viewfinders, Big Shot photographers have captured such landmarks as the U.S.S. Intrepid, the Royal Palace in Stockholm, Sweden, and George Eastman House International Museum of Photography and Film, while drawing in thousands of volunteers and spectators throughout the past two decades.

“For me the project is about challenges, teamwork and community. At our very first Big Shot at Rochester’s Highland Hospital in 1987 we had about 35 people come out in below- freezing temperatures,” says Dawn Tower DuBois, professor at RIT’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf and one of the Big Shot organizers. “Last year, The Big Shot along the historic Erie Canal drew a crowd of about 700 people. The community response is really something special.”

Anyone is welcome to participate in the Big Shot event. There will be a reception at the museum immediately following the making of the photograph. To register for the reception, visit www.rit.edu/alumni/bigshot09. To learn more about the project and view photographs of past Big Shot photos, go to www.rit.edu/bigshot.

© 2009, The F Stops Here. All rights reserved. (Jessica D. Korman)

MELVILLE, N.Y., Aug. 4 /PRNewswire/ — Nikon Inc. continues its tradition of innovation, design and performance with the introduction of four new COOLPIX Style Series compact digital cameras. Building on the success of Nikon’s previous touch-screen models, the ultra-stylish COOLPIX S70 features an enhanced interface and organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display technology for a new user experience, housed in a stylish camera body. The COOLPIX S1000pj features the world’s first built-in projector, which enables consumers to share their images and videos in an all-new fun way. Additionally, the COOLPIX S640 and COOLPIX S570, leaders in speed and affordability, respectively, complete the new smarter, cooler, simpler COOLPIX line.

“These latest Nikon COOLPIX digital cameras reflect hallmarks of the COOLPIX line: performance, design and innovation,” said Bill Giordano, general manager marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon Inc. “With new features such as a built-in projector and new touch controls for viewing, shooting and zooming, these COOLPIX cameras will appeal to users of every level.”

The Nikon COOLPIX cameras incorporate Nikon’s world-class NIKKOR lenses, delivering accurate detail and brilliant color, as well as Nikon’s EXPEED(TM) digital image processing concept, which ensures high-quality pictures with stunning color and sharpness. A new enhancement to Nikon’s Smart Portrait System that helps create beautiful portraits includes an all-new Skin Softening feature designed to both smooth and even skin tones. Other COOLPIX features include Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization, minimizing blur that may appear in pictures, even in low-light or unsteady conditions; and Scene Auto Selector, which automatically recognizes the shooting situation and adjusts camera settings accordingly.

NEW COOLPIX S70 FEATURES SUPERIOR STYLING AND OLED TOUCH-SCREEN INTERFACE

Built on the success of Nikon’s previous touch-screen models, the COOLPIX S70 features Nikon’s newly developed 3.5-inch Clear Color Display and a new generation of touch-screen controls that offer an enhanced shooting and playback experience. In addition to its photographic technology and stylish dual-texture design, the S70 captures stunning HD video at 1280 x 720 pixels (720p).

New to the COOLPIX line, OLED technology offers the benefits of vivid color reproduction, sharp contrast and the absence of afterimages. The capacitive touch-screen provides an immediate response at the lightest touch of the display for a fun and intuitive feel to every camera operation. For example, using the Touch Shutter feature, users can have a completely “button-free” experience and focus on and photograph a subject by simply touching it on the camera’s display. The touch-screen also makes viewing and retouching images more fun and efficient. With the swipe of a finger, users can scroll through images and use a pinching motion with two fingers to zoom in or out on displayed images, switching between thumbnail and full screen views. Additional new touch-screen controls include on-screen sliders for adjusting brightness and Scene Effect Adjustment, which offers controls specific to the scene mode in use.

The COOLPIX S70 features 12.1 megapixels; a 5x wide-angle Zoom-NIKKOR lens; ISO 6400***; 5-way VR Image Stabilization System; Subject Tracking; Scene Auto Selector Mode; Nikon’s Smart Portrait System and an ultra-stylish design.

The S70 will be available in September 2009 for $399.95 MSRP in a choice of colors and texturesincluding Red & Red, Champagne & Beige, Black & Black, or Champagne & Light Brown.

NEW COOLPIX S1000pj FEATURES WORLD’S FIRST BUILT-IN PROJECTOR, YOUR PERSONAL

THEATER ON THE GO

Providing consumers with new exciting ways to share images, the COOLPIX S1000pj transforms photo-sharing into a multimedia experience. With the touch of a button, users can project images and videos as large as 40 inches, and with the camera’s unique slideshow function, playback pictures with music, effects and creative transitions. Additional features of the S1000pj include: 12.1 megapixels; a 5x wide-angle Zoom-NIKKOR glass lens; ISO from 64-6400***; a 2.7-inch wide-angle LCD Display; 5-way VR Image Stabilization System; Subject Tracking; Scene Auto Selector Mode; Nikon’s Smart Portrait System and movie mode.

The COOLPIX S1000pj will be available in Matte Black, in September 2009, for $429.95 MSRP.

NEW COOLPIX S640 IS SLEEK, FAST AND FULLY-LOADED WITH ENHANCED SPEED
CAPABILITIES

For consumers who never want to miss a moment, the all-new COOLPIX S640 is Nikon’s performance leader in the S-Series lineup. High performance features include ultra-fast auto-focus, the fastest start up time in its class** of a mere 0.7 seconds and short shutter release time lag. Additional features of the S640 include: a slim, stylish all metal body; 12.2 megapixels; a 5x wide-angle NIKKOR lens; ISO from 100-6400 at full resolution; a 2.7-inch Clear Color LCD Display; 4-way VR Image Stabilization System; Subject Tracking; Scene Auto Selector Mode; Nikon’s Smart Portrait System and movie mode.

The COOLPIX S640 will be available in September 2009 for $249.95 MSRP and will be offered in various colors including: Calm Black, Velour Red, Precious Pink and Pearl White.

NEW COOLPIX S570 OFFERS ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES AT AN ECONOMICAL PRICE POINT

Where style meets simplicity, the new COOLPIX S570 is ideal for entry-level consumers looking for a carefree shooting experience. The S570 features 12.0 megapixels; a 5x wide-angle Zoom-NIKKOR glass lens; ISO 3200 at full resolution; a bright 2.7-inch LCD Display; 4-way VR Image Stabilization System; Scene Auto Selector Mode; Nikon’s Smart Portrait System and movie mode.

The COOLPIX S570 will be available in September 2009, for $199.95 MSRP and will be offered in various colors including Black, Red, Blue and Pink.

*Among compact digital cameras as of August 4, 2009 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).

**Among compact digital cameras equipped with optical 5x zoom lens and optical vibration reduction as of August 4, 2009 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).

***Setting is available only for image sizes of 3M (2048 x 1536) or smaller.

© 2009, The F Stops Here. All rights reserved. (Jessica D. Korman)

MELVILLE, N.Y., July 30 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Nikon Inc. announced the D3000 digital SLR camera, offering first-time D-SLR users and budding photographers an affordable option to experience the extraordinary picture quality of a Nikon D-SLR. The 10.2-megapixel D3000 has features that make it easier than ever to take great pictures, including the new Guide Mode, which lends a helping hand to new D-SLR users by suggesting, and in many instances making, appropriate camera settings for particular shooting situations, and an extensive Retouch Menu, which enables consumers to edit photos, even when away from their computer. The D3000, which offers an 11-point autofocus system, also leverages proven Nikon D-SLR technologies including exclusive EXPEED(TM) image processing, and an Active D-Lighting system, enabling entry-level D-SLR shooters to take stunning pictures even when conditions are challenging.

“The D3000 combines the best of both worlds, providing picture takers with the ease-of-use currently offered in point-and-shoot cameras alongside the speed, precision and exceptional picture quality that have made Nikon D-SLRs so popular,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “The D3000 offers everyone the ability to discover the superiority of D-SLR photography at an affordable price point. We look forward to enabling more consumers to explore the possibilities of D-SLR picture taking and, more importantly, empowering them to capture life’s memories faithfully.”

Intuitive Assistance On-the-Fly

The D3000 features the all-new Guide Mode with an easy-to-use interface to help new photographers build confidence in using their D-SLR through on-demand, step-by-step assistance. The Guide Mode, easily accessed by the Mode dial on the top of the camera, displays common shooting situations and example images and then counsels the user with the corresponding scene modes and settings on the LCD screen. The Guide Mode also helps users easily review, organize and delete images.

Whether new to D-SLR photography or simply mastering new shooting techniques, the D3000′s Guide Mode assists users in exploring effective picture taking solutions at their own pace to make capturing great pictures even easier.

Small in Size, Big on Features

With elegant ergonomics, softly rounded corners, and a comfortable grip, the D3000 packs powerful technology into a compact form factor. Though the D3000 is tiny when compared to professional D-SLR cameras, it boasts a large, bright three-inch high resolution LCD screen, and now features an easier-to-read text that’s 20 percent larger than in previous Nikon D-SLRs.

Quick performance and response are at the core of the D3000′s design and its 11-point autofocus system makes it easy to find and focus on a subject. Also, the D3000 offers split-second shutter response, eliminating the frustration of shutter lag–the annoying delay that ruins so many pictures, and has the ability to capture images at up to three frames-per-second, ensuring users never miss a moment. Users can enjoy the benefits of Nikon’s Advanced 3D Subject Tracking, which continuously focuses on fast moving subjects throughout the frame, resulting in crisp, clear action shots.

The D3000 provides multiple ways for users to engage with their pictures. It utilizes Nikon’s extensive in-camera Retouch Menu, which allows users to easily apply a variety of fun and dramatic effects to their images even without a computer. To create fun photo dioramas in-camera, the D3000 also introduces a new Miniature effect, which changes the appearance of distant subjects to look like close-ups of miniature models. In addition, the D3000 inherits the Soft Filter and Color Outline Retouch options from the D5000, allowing users to express their photography in a new and artistic way. Soft Filter applies a smooth, even tone across an image, for a smooth, classic portrait effect, while Color Outline converts an image into a black and white “sketch” perfect for painting or coloring. As with all Nikon D-SLRs, the camera creates a copy of the retouched image while preserving the original.

Nikon extends the creativity with Stop-Motion Movie Mode. With this mode, users can choose a collection of images within the D3000′s Retouch Menu to create a fun and creative video file.

Renowned Nikon Technology

The D3000 leverages proven Nikon technologies to create the most positive picture taking experience for consumers. With its 10.2-megapixel image sensor and Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED image processing system, the D3000 delivers exceptional image quality with low noise. The D3000′s normal ISO range extends from ISO 100 to 1600, allowing users to capture stunning images, even in low light. Additionally, the D3000′s ISO range can expand to a Hi-1 setting of ISO 3200, furthering the opportunities for shots that other cameras miss.

Nikon’s Active D-Lighting system, which automatically rescues dark or backlit images by improving brightness and detail where needed, makes capturing images on the D3000 an enjoyable experience no matter the lighting conditions. For instance, when selected, Nikon’s Active D-Lighting can improve the appearance of fine detail in a person’s face that was previously hidden in dark shadows or bring out the highlights in a beautifully backlit landscape.

The D3000 also incorporates Nikon’s Integrated Dust Reduction System, which offers a comprehensive solution that combats the accumulation of image-degrading dust from the camera’s image sensor. The system not only utilizes this active sensor cleaning function that activates whenever the camera is turned on or off, but also the Airflow Control System to redirect dust particles, limiting their ability to ever reach the sensor. This feature is especially helpful when changing lenses in less than optimal conditions, and helps maintain image integrity over the life of the camera.

System Expandability

Photographers can also appreciate the D3000′s system expandability, as it is compatible with a variety of Nikon accessories, including a broad assortment of legendary NIKKOR AF-S interchangeable lenses. While the D3000 offers a versatile built-in flash, the camera also operates with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System and is capable of Advanced Wireless Lighting when using the SB-900 Speedlight or the SU-800 Wireless Commander. The D3000′s design also supports Eye-Fi memory card functionality, enabling the convenient wireless transfer of images from the camera to a computer, when using Eye-Fi memory cards.* Additionally, photos can be securely written to readily available SD cards, high-capacity SDHC cards and Eye-Fi memory cards, offering users a range of data storage options.

Price and Availability

The D3000 outfit, including the versatile AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, is scheduled to be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in late August 2009 at an estimated selling price of $599.95.** For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

© 2009, The F Stops Here. All rights reserved. (Jessica D. Korman)