Epson today introduced the SureColor P-Series large format photo printers. Incorporating Epson’s PrecisionCore TFP printhead, the new P-Series printers deliver extraordinary performance for the professional photo printing market.

(Click on the links for more info.) The 24-inch SureColor P6000 and 44-inch SureColor P8000 leverage Epson’s UltraChrome HD eight-color ink set and the 24-inch SureColor P7000 and 44-inch SureColor P9000 incorporate a reformulated Epson UltraChrome HDX 10-color ink set. Both professional ink sets deliver outstanding color with improved black density – the new Black ink is 1.5 times denser than previous ink formulation, providing significant improvements to overall contract ratio and optical clarity, and improved Resin Encapsulation Technology delivers superior gloss uniformity.

According to an Epson press release (quoted in part)...

Sept. 14, 2015 – Epson is once again redefining large format commercial ink jet printing with the announcement of the SureColor® P-Series line-up. Incorporating the latest imaging technologies, including Epson’s PrecisionCore® TFP® printhead, the new P-Series printers deliver extraordinary performance for the professional printing industry along with unparalleled color matching capabilities. Leveraging Epson’s UltraChrome® HD eight-color ink set, the 24-inch SureColor P6000 and 44-inch SureColor P8000 are designed for graphic designers, commercial printers and photographers. Successors to the award-winning Epson Stylus® Pro 900-Series, the 24-inch SureColor P7000 and 44-inch SureColor P9000 incorporate a reformulated Epson UltraChrome HDX 10-color ink set for both commercial and flexographic printers, as well as graphic designers, photographers, and fine art reproduction houses.

One camera is here today; the other is a hint of what's to come. The Samsung NX500 is apparently the kid brother to the NX1. The only thing that offsets my desire to own either of these cameras is the pricey premium lenses. Still, they're very tempting. The Ricoh/Pentax offering is a product under development (don't you just hate these teasers!). The following are portions of the press releases for each product.

Tamron teased us with an earlier announcement about this lens, but now it's a reality and promises to be a game-changer (currently for Canon and Nikon users; Sony version to come at a later date). Just imagine shooting landscapes with a 15-30mm image-stabilized zoom lens. The possibilities are endless! I can't wait to get my hands on this lens for a field test. I'll likely end up buying it. I just love Tamron lenses! Here's the full press release.

January 23, 2015, Commack, New York- Tamron, a leading manufacturer of precision optics, announces the release of a groundbreaking F/2.8 ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras. The Tamron SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (model A012) is the only zoom lens in its category to feature image stabilization. The lens will be available starting January 30, 2015 at $1199.   

Since 2012, Tamron has been expanding its lineup of interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras. The Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A007) was the world's first F/2.8 high-speed standard zoom lens to include image stabilization, followed by the development of the unique SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A009), SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F004), and SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD (Model A011) lenses, all of which have been highly acclaimed among the photo enthusiasts around the globe. Now, we have developed SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A012) to expand the world of imaging possibilities in the wide-angle range.

Product Highlights

1. Superior, class leading imaging performance using an innovative XGM lens element
With an optical construction consisting of 18 elements in 13 groups, including, for the first time, an XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element placed in the front group, and several Molded-Glass Aspherical elements and LD (Low Dispersion) elements used throughout the optical system, aberrations such as geometrical distortion and lateral color are efficiently corrected enabling the zoom lens to deliver outstanding image quality throughout its entire zoom range from corner to corner.

2. Enhanced sharpness with exclusive VC image stabilization when shooting handheld in low light or at night
In response to popular demand, Tamron has created the world's first F/2.8 ultra-wide-angle zoom lens with VC (Vibration Compensation)*4. The VC allows shooting at slow shutter speeds and in low light conditions, and effectively compensates for minor camera shake, whilst maintaining class leading optimal performance.

3. eBAND Coating provides superior anti-reflection properties
In addition to further optimizing Tamron's acclaimed BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating, the eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating has also been employed in this lens. This combination offers superior anti-reflection properties especially important in ultra-wide-angle lenses which are particularly susceptible to flare and ghosting due to their wide angle of view, and provides superior quality and crystal-clear images by minimizing unwanted light reaching the sensor.

4. 15-30mm zoom covers both ultra-wide and semi-wide-angle focal lengths
At its ultra-wide-angle settings this lens can capture, in a single photograph, broad landscapes that cannot be taken in fully by the human eye. At its semi-wide-angle focal lengths, it's ideal for travel and street photography. In short, this unique lens utilizes the zoom function to provide maximum shooting flexibility with a wide range of subjects.

5. Fascinating background "bokeh" throughout the wide-angle range due to its fast constant F/2.8 aperture
Utilizing its shallow depth of field at F/2.8, it enables users to capture beautiful bokeh effects even at wide coverage angles. Its advanced optical formula and 9-bladed circular diaphragm are designed with defocused photography in mind - perfect for creating images where subjects stand out from their natural, blended backgrounds.

6. Proven fluorine coating utilizing Tamron's industrial lens expertise is used on the front element
Fluorine coating, with an established track record in Tamron's industrial lenses, such as those used in automotive cameras, has been applied to the front element. It repels water and dirt, and makes it easier to remove smudges.

7. Flexible, high-performance focusing with USD
USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive)*5 delivers high torque, high precision, and virtually silent autofocus action. A full-time manual focus mechanism permits fine focus adjustments instantly without needing to exit AF mode.

8. Lens hood designed to prevent light from striking lens at all focal lengths
This unique lens hood provides effective shading of the front lens surface over the entire zoom range to minimize flare. It utilizes the unique characteristics of the optical system in which the front lens group recedes as you zoom in from 15 mm to 30 mm.

9. Double-hood structure provides additional strength
A double-hood structure has been incorporated into the lens design to improve the durability of the zoom mechanism.

10. Comes with "SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron", RAW image processing software customized for Tamron SP lenses

The SILKYPIX Developer Studio software can develop high-quality images from RAW data, incorporating adjustments that can express the personal style and taste of the photographer. These include white balance, color, sharpness, and the tonal curves recorded by digital cameras.

The SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron provides a range of functions in addition to the basic adjustment capabilities, such as correcting aberrations (chromatic aberrations, distortion, peripheral light fall-off), based on the optical data. Used in tandem with Tamron's SP series lenses - renowned for their crisp, high-resolution imaging - this advanced technology efficiently produces images that meet photographers' most exacting demands.

1 The XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element is capable of efficiently correcting aberrations in the angle of view that changes significantly with an ultra-wideangle zoom lens. Furthermore, it has an especially significant impact on minimizing distortion and enhancing sharpness of the image at its periphery.

2 eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating is a new nanotechnology-based coating technique developed by Tamron to reduce unwanted reflections.

3 The Sony mount version does not include VC since Sony digital SLR bodies incorporate built-in image stabilization functionality. The name of the Sony mount model is "SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di USD" without the VC designation.

4 VC (Vibration Compensation) is Tamron's proprietary image stabilization mechanism.

5 USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) is Tamron's proprietary ring-type ultrasonic motor.

Specifications

Model: A012
Focal Length: 15-30mm
Maximum Aperture: F/ 2.8
Angle of View (diagonal):110°32’～71°35’ (for full-frame format); 85°52’～49°54’ (for APS-C format)
Lens Construction: 18 elements in 13 groups
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.28m (11 in)
Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:5
Filter Size: N/A
Maximum Diameter: Φ98.4mm
Length*: for Canon 145mm (5.7 in)**; for Nikon 142.5mm (5.6 in)**
Weight: 1,100 g (38.8 oz.)**
Diaphragm Blade Number: 9 (circular diaphragm blades)*6
Minimum Aperture: f/22
Standard Accessories: Lens caps (push-on front, rear)
Hood: Integrated flower-shaped hood
Compatible Mounts: Canon, Nikon, Sony

* Length is the distance from the front tip of the lens to the lens mount face.
**Length and weight are based on figures for the Canon-mount and the Nikon-mount lens.
*6 The circular diaphragm stays almost perfectly circular up to two stops down from maximum aperture
 
Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.

Detailed Feature Specifications 
 
* VC (Vibration Compensation)
VC is Tamron's proprietary image stabilization system. Tamron's VC employs a three-coil system, whereby three driving coils activate the shake-compensating VC lens group electromagnetically via three ceramic ball bearings. The VC lens elements are held in place only by contact with the ceramic ball bearings, achieving smooth movement with little friction. And since the VC mechanism is moved in parallel using only the motorized control, the mechanical structure has been simplified, enabling the development of more compact lenses.   

* The Ultrasonic Motor 
In the ultrasonic motor, a piezoelectric element arranged in a ring formation generates ultrasonic vibrations in a metallic ring stator, and this vibration energy is used to rotate a metallic ring rotor that is attached to the stator. The rotation energy is in turn transferred from the metallic ring rotor to operate the focusing mechanism of the lens.   

* eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating
eBAND Coating, developed by Tamron, is a new coating technique that radically improves anti-reflection properties. A nano-structured layer (1nm = 1/1,000,000mm), with dimensions smaller than the wavelengths of visible rays of light, is deployed on top of multiple coating layers to maximize light transmission efficiency.

Reflections occur at the interface between the lens and the air because of the difference in refractive indices of the two substances. The nano-structure of the eBAND Coating makes possible an extremely low refractive index by minimizing the differential with that of air while actively inducing air to its own structure, thus significantly suppressing the extent and degree of reflections.  

In addition, the total anti-reflection efficiency at the lens surface is further improved by means of integrating the conventional coating technique based on an active utilization of the "interference of light" principle, attenuating the level of reflections by overlaying reflected light on the coating front surface and that of the back side with its phase shifted, thus increasing the net transmissivity.

As a hybrid technology that integrates the newly developed nano-structured layer with an extremely low refractive index and conventional multiple-layer coatings, the eBAND Coating provides superb anti-reflection performance, delivering crisp, razor sharp images, and eliminating the flare and ghosting that can tangibly damage image quality to a remarkable degree.

This came to me in an email from HP Marketing. I'll miss working with HP Marketing, but mostly I'll miss working with the talented and knowledgeable staff. 

Here is the email, slightly edited (as it was addressed to the sales reps originally).

"For over 43 years HP Marketing Corp. has been a leader in the importation and marketing of fine photographic equipment.

"Now, our owner, Gepe Holding, has agreed to sell HP Marketing Corp. to the MAC Group effective Feb. 1, 2015.

"Accordingly, as of Feb. 1, 2015, HP Marketing Corp. will be purchased by the MAC Group, who will then take over the distribution of Gepe, Geimuplast, Novoflex, Heliopan and Kaiser products.

"OmegaBrandess will, effective Jan. 15, 2015, take over the distribution of Ansmann, Berlebach, Boblbee, Braun, BRNO, Giottos, Linhof, Rodenstock, Tetenal, Vue-All and Wista products.

(Again, while this addresses sales reps, I'm certain the following would apply to loyal supporters of HP Marketing.)

"We appreciate all that you have done for us and the support that you have given us during our years of association and wish you all continued success in the future. We, the MAC Group and OmegaBrandess all expect an easy and speedy transition and want to ensure that our dealers and their customers experience no interruptions in the supply of our products."

As always, when upgrading an operating system, we have to concern ourselves with compatibility issues. I’ve tracked down some info that may be of help should you consider upgrading to Apple's Mac Yosemite (OS X 10.10). BEFORE YOU UPGRADE, MAKE SURE TO BACKUP YOUR COMPUTER’S HARD DRIVE. If you are uncertain about compatibility with software that is vital to your home or business, first confirm compatibility with the applicable software companies before installing.

This info primarily concerns digital imaging, video, and digital music apps, but also includes more general applications.

Comprehensive list of apps that work/don’t work/may work: http://www.macstrategy.com/article.php?123

Checklist of compatible Macs:  https://www.apple.com/osx/how-to-upgrade/

This compatibility list comes from Brown University: http://www.brown.edu/information-technology/knowledge-base/article/1615

Re: Adobe & Photoshop products
Useful info: http://helpx.adobe.com/x-productkb/global/mac-os-yosemite-compatability.html

From: http://blogs.adobe.com/crawlspace/2014/10/photoshop-and-mac-osx-10-10-yosemite.html
The Photoshop team has tested the following versions of Photoshop on Mac OSX 10.10 (Yosemite) and found no issues specific to this operating system:

• Photoshop CC 2014 (2014.2)
• Photoshop CC (14.2.1)
• Photoshop CS6 (13.0.6; 13.1.2)

Useful detailed info for imaging/video users:
http://helpx.adobe.com/x-productkb/global/mac-os-yosemite-compatability.html

General upgrade questions answered:
http://macstrategy.com/article.php?127

Color management:  
http://nativedigital.co.uk/site/2014/10/mac-os-10-10-yosemite-compatibility-for-colour-management-applications/

Music apps:
http://www.6am-group.com/yosemite-mac-os-x-10-10-compatibility/

If you find any others that would prove useful or have information to share in this regard, please let me know.

I should point out that I have yet to install the new operating system. After my previous experience with the upgraded OS, I’m waiting a bit. But that doesn’t mean I may not upgrade tomorrow or when I have some time to spare. They say it can take an hour. But that depends on your machine and download speed, and the time it takes for you to back up your system.

I really don't understand why Tamron makes these announcements months before a new lens is even available. Perhaps they want to test the waters of public opinion. Either way, I've always welcomed their lenses - I own several and love using them. So I can't wait to get my hands on this potential beauty. Here's what I have on this lens for now, straight from Tamron.

TAMRON ANNOUNCES THE DEVELOPMENT OF A REVOLUTIONARY NEW ULTRA-TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS FOR FULL-FRAME AND APS-C FORMAT DSLR CAMERAS: SP 150-600MM F/5-6.3 DI VC USD (MODEL A011)

Cutting-edge eBAND Coating[1] and three LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements deliver superior imaging performance, while the latest built-in VC (Vibration Compensation[2]) system broadens users' horizons in achieving sharper handheld photographs

November 7, 2013, Commack, N.Y. - Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Morio Ono), a leading manufacturer of precision optics, has announced the development of an innovative ultra-telephoto zoom lens with a focal length range of 150mm to 600mm for full-frame and APS-C format DSLR cameras. The lens sample will be on display in the Tamron booth at the Salon de la Photo 2013 that will be held from November 7-11 in Paris, France. Pricing and delivery information are not available at this time.

Tamron's current 200-500mm (Model A08) is a popular, compact, easy-to-use ultra-telephoto zoom lens, but customers have shown great interest in having a lens that provides an even greater focal length range.

This all-new ultra-telephoto zoom lens features VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization, speedy, precise USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive)[1], state-of-the-art eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating, which significantly reduces the unwanted light reflections that cause flare and ghosting, and a sophisticated and stylish new external finish.

Its 4x ultra-telephoto zoom capabilities, with a focal length range from 150mm to 600mm, enhance the creative potential of telephoto photography, a captivating feature for all photographers, particularly nature, wildlife, and sports shooters.

Product Highlights

• 4x ultra-telephoto zoom lens with a focal length range of 150mm to 600mm
  The focal length range of this lens was extended by 50mm on the wide-angle side and 100mm on the telephoto side compared to the existing model A08, making it possible to take even more striking photographs of birds, wildlife, sports, and other distant subjects. Mounted on APS-C DSLR cameras, it has a stunning near1000mm telephoto equivalent focal length range of 233mm to 930mm.

• World class image quality
  Employing 20 elements in 13 groups and boasting an advanced optical design, the lens delivers a superior balance of resolution and contrast for sharp, clear images. The front group contains three LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements (two in the first group, one in the third) for enhanced optical correction effectiveness, enabling the lens to thoroughly compensate for on-axis aberrations at the telephoto end. The lens also adopts eBAND Coating, developed from state-of-the-art coating technologies, and conventional BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating to greatly suppress ghosting and flare even when shooting under adverse lighting conditions.

• Achieves a 600mm focal length in a compact easy-to-handle package
  Ingenious optical design features minimize the movement of lens groups within the lens when zooming. This reduces the amount of barrel extension needed to cover the complete focusing range, making the entire lens more compact.

• Beautiful background blur effects
  Adopting a 9 blade circular diaphragm enables users to create beautiful background blur effects (Bokeh), which provide even greater potential for creative expression. This circular diaphragm retains a nearly circular shape even at two stops down from its maximum aperture.

• VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism creates greater opportunities for sharper handheld photography
  Tamron's proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization system uses a three-coil system, delivering significantly sharper images and creating greater opportunities for handheld ultra-telephoto photography.

• Comfortable autofocus
  Tamron's new SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD features a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ultrasonic motor drive for swift and accurate AF response, it delivers high torque, very fast response times, and very low noise. The full-time manual focus mechanism allows users to make fine manual focus adjustments at any time even when AF is engaged.

• New elegant, high-class external finish
  Tamron has upgraded the cosmetic design and finish of this lens to create a more sophisticated, high-end look in keeping with the demands of discerning full-frame DSLR users. Employing a sophisticated linear pattern rubber grip on the zoom and focus rings and an attractive and stylish tungsten silver brand ring, this newly designed model accentuates its visceral presence with understated elegance and class.

• Easy-to-use tripod mount
  The tripod mount has been completely redesigned to provide superior stability, durability, ease of use, and portability.

• Comes with "SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron", RAW image development processing software for Tamron's SP lenses
  The SILKYPIX Developer Studio software can develop high-quality images from RAW data, incorporating adjustments that can express the personal style and taste of the photographer. These include white balance, color, sharpness, and the tonal curves recorded by digital cameras. The SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron provides a range of functions, in addition to the basic adjustment capabilities, such as correcting aberrations (chromatic aberrations of magnification, distortion, peripheral light fall-off), based on the optical data. Used in tandem with Tamron's SP series lenses - renowned for their high-depiction capability - this advanced technology efficiently produces images that meet photographers' most exacting demands.

Photos courtesy Tamron.

[1] The eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating is a new nanotechnology-based coating technique developed by Tamron to reduce unwanted reflection. 
[2] VC (Vibration Compensation) is Tamron's proprietary image stabilization mechanism.
[3] USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) is Tamron's proprietary ring-type ultrasonic motor.  
[4] Length and weight are based on figures for the Nikon-mount lens.
[5] Length is the distance between the front tip of the lens and the mount face.
[6] This circular diaphragm retains a nearly circular shape even when taken at two stops down from its maximum aperture.
[7] The Sony mount does not include VC, since Sony digital SLR bodies include built-in image stabilization.

Nikon introduced the Df DSLR camera, hyping it as a "classic-styled" machine. But do we really need a classic, or just something more functional for the working shooter out there? After all, if all you want is a pretty camera or collector's item to sit in a drawer or showcase, then buy a Leica. What's more, the sensor on the Df is smaller even than on the D600/D610 - or, for that matter, the D5300 (albeit, the D5300 is APS-C, not full-frame). And get a load of that price. Might as well buy a Nikon D800.

Anyway, here's the 411 on the new camera, per Nikon. If you're really in the market for this sort of thing.

Although, you do have to admit, it does look enticing...

Nikon Df:

·         Classic Nikon design cues, with solid build and mechanical controls

o   Sophisticated physical/mechanical controls for settings and adjustments

·         Imaging and low-light performance inherited from Nikon’s flagship D4 D-SLR

o   Large 36 x 23.9mm, 16.2 MP FX-Format CMOS sensor

o   EXPEED 3 image processing engine propels image quality to the next level

o   Exceptionally wide ISO range from 100-12,800, expandable to 204,800 for superb low-light performance

·         Nikon’s thinnest and lightest FX-format D-SLR

·         39-point AF system with nine cross-type sensors and continuous burst shooting up to 5.5 fps ensures precision and clarity when capturing moving subjects

·         2016-Pixel Matrix Metering and Scene Recognition System ensure proper camera settings for every shooting scenario

·         Easy to create with a 3.2-inch LCD display and glass optical viewfinder

·         Wi-Fi connectivity available with use of optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, allowing for instant download and sharing to smart devices or remote firing of the camera

·         Reaching back into the NIKKOR lens legacy, the Df is compatible with current AF, AF-S, DX and AF-D lenses, but also works with classic Ai and non-Ai NIKKOR glass

·         Full compatibility with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System and WR remote systems

·         Available in late November 2013, in classic silver and black color schemes at a suggested retail price (SRP) of $2,749.95 (body only). A kit will also be available with the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8 Special Edition Lens for $2,999.95 (SRP)

DxO is offering free perspective-control software for a very limited time. This is a standalone, scaled-down version of its more robust DxO ViewPoint 2 software (which also works as a Lightroom/Photoshop plug-in). The software is available exclusively through the App Store for Mac only. Here is the press release. 


With DxO Perspective for Mac OS X, DxO Labs puts the power of its geometrical corrections into the hands of all photographers. Free download through November 3, exclusively in the Mac App Store.


October 30, 2013 – DxO Labs announces the immediate availability of DxO Perspective for Mac OS X, its exclusive application designed to correct perspective and horizon problems. Thanks to its system of applying anchor points directly on images, DxO Perspective offers a simple and innovative solution that puts its powerful geometric corrections into the hands of all photographers, even beginners. Indispensable for architectural and landscape photography!

DxO Perspective is available exclusively in the Mac App Store as a free download through November 3, 2013.

To watch an introductory video about DxO Perspective, click here: https://vimeo.com/77985343

Easy yet powerful perspective correctionsIn architectural or urban photography, depending on the position of the photographer with respect to the scene, buildings’ vertical and horizontal lines can lose their parallelism. With DxO Perspective, making buildings plumb again has never been easier: users simply place the anchor points directly on the image along the lines they want to correct, and unnatural façades instantly return to their original appearance.

DxO Perspective corrects all kinds of perspective problems, even the most complex. Using its Rectangle tool, when a photo contains two perspective flaws, DxO Perspective’s Rectangle tool immediately reestablishes a full-frontal view of the object — essential when shooting a photo of a poster or painting! In 8-point correction mode, DxO Perspective handles even more complex perspectives: the independent placing of horizontal and vertical guidelines provides highly precise corrections on multiple planes.

With just one line, DxO Perspective also restores balance and authenticity to landscape photos by perfectly straightening a slanted horizon.

Full-frame photosRegardless of the corrections applied, DxO Perspective keeps photos full-frame, thanks to its automatic cropping feature that optimizes the visible field. Users can also customize the framing to highlight a particular element. A composition grid facilitates precise adjustments.

Advanced settingsSerious photographers can also adjust the intensity of the correction and the horizontal/vertical ratio according to their own tastes.

Availability and special introductory offerDxO Perspective for Mac OS X is immediately and exclusively available in the Mac App Store. To access the application, click here. The software is free through November 3, 2013, instead of priced at $19.99/£13.99/17.99€.

Sony introduced two new Alpha cameras today: the α7 and α7R. Sony notes that they are the world’s smallest full-frame interchangeable lens mirrorless digitals for pro and advanced amateur. However, and someone please explain this to me, what pro would ever want face recognition in a serious camera? Lots more features of a similar ilk, many obviously geared toward JPEG capture. Again, in a pro camera? And lest you think that I'm misreading their intent, here it is from Sony:

"Highly anticipated by professional photographers and imaging enthusiasts alike, the two new cameras offer an unmatched combination of creativity, customizability and portability."

Sony's not alone in this - catering to the masses with features no one would spend this kind of money on just for the bragging rights to be called a pro by virtue of an expensive camera. (Now that I re-read this, it makes no sense to me either.) But hey, it sure beats calling yourself a "photographer" when all you've got to show for it are pictures off a cell phone. 

My minor quips aside, these two cameras look to be a serious contender in a field where the DSLR reigns supreme as the tool for professional digital imaging. They might even herald the downfall of the almighty DSLR as we know it, as we constantly follow a narrowing path leading toward smaller and lighter cameras and lenses, leaving medium format to hold the fort for the big guns. I might even be tempted to grab up one of these new Sony cams myself, although I would have been much happier had they also featured a built-in GPS.

The new Sony cams support Wi-Fi and NFC. Huh? If you're not familiar with the tech (I didn't know it had a name till moments ago), NFC stands for Near Field Communications. It's for the touchy-feely types who can't take the time to hit a few keys to transmit pictures but instead prefer to run clear across town so they can tap someone else's device with their own. And still keep it rated "G."

Anyway, here's the official spiel from Sony, from their website:

"The α7R model features a 36.4 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor – the highest resolution sensor in the history of Sony’s α line – with no optical low pass filter for added resolving power and increased image detail.  The α7 model boasts an impressive 24.3 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor and an innovative fast Hybrid AF system.

"Each camera is equipped with advanced imaging features including a powerful new  BIONZ® X processor; fast AF capabilities; a clear, bright XGA OLED Tru-finder, full HD 60p video recording, Wi-Fi® and NFC connection, dust-and moisture- resistance and more." 

For more, visit the Sony Store.

More Sony news, in their words:

Sony’s Action Cam Selfie Sweepstakes:  Post a “selfie” photo or video of a crazy, extreme moment to either Instagram or Twitter using #ActionCamSelfie hashtag, and be entered to win one of 5 Sony Action Cams.  Read the Sony blog for more details on contest rules.

You may have heard the brouhaha over sensor splatter on the D600 full-frame sensor. Well, sadly I had the same problem, and when it wouldn't go away on its own but instead got steadily worse, like many of you, I sent my D600 into Nikon. They cleaned the sensor, replaced the culprit - a faulty shutter mechanism, and returned the camera in a very timely manner. It wasn't long before I spotted some spots on the sensor - of the same type. Well, my warranty period is over, so I guess I'll have to live with it and deal with it on my own.

Fast forward - well, not that fast, maybe a week or two, and Nikon introduces the D610 - the full-frame replacement for the D600. They didn't say it - but everyone else did - to deal with the backlash. The new camera is $100 cheaper, but also sports a new shutter mechanism that delivers 6 fps - that's a whopping (he says facetiously) half frame faster than the original. I reviewed the specs line for line. These were the only two differences. They had an opportunity to make some other improvements, but blew it.

Next thing I know, they're introducing the D5300 APS-C (cropped) sensor DSLR - or as we like to say these days, HD-SLR, to denote the camera's ability to shoot hi-def video. I read the press release, and I have to say, interesting little camera with a not so little price tag. Back in the day of film cameras, something like this would have run you maybe $300, give or take. The D5300 is more than twice that, at around $800 MSRP. But, hey, progress, the times we live in, the cost of living - they go hand-in-hand.

Point is, just looking at the specs, this is an impressive bit of photo tech. One feature that I can really appreciate (which is why I carry my little Sony DSC-HX20V around) is the built-in GPS. The other I'm still on the fence about and that is built-in Wi-Fi. Still, nice to have, whether it works or not.

Also impressive is the 24.2 MP resolution. Like the D610/D600, plenty of real estate for cropping. And at 5 fps, plenty of steam to capture driving action. 

Many of you will likely be excited by the camera's HD video recording. I'm not a big HD video buff, but the numbers are certainly there, with HD at up to 60 fps and a vari-angle LCD monitor as icing on the cake. My biggest complaint regarding HD-SLRs is that they still fall short of a dedicated video camera in many respects. One more important piece of information: at HD resolution, you can only shoot for 20 minutes non-stop. So what do you do at minute 21? Tell competing skiers to take a break, tell the Bar Mizvah boy to go and count his blessings (code for moola)? 

Still, you have to admit that today's digital SLR is mind-blowing when you think about everything it offers. And the Nikon D5300 is up there with the best of them in that price class. As least on paper. Haven't gotten my hands on one yet to come to any verifiable conclusions. And I'm just hoping that Nikon has gotten that sensor splatter out of its system - or, more to the point, its DSLR systems.