Nikon P150

Introducing the COOLPIX P510 and COOLPIX L810

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 1st Feb 2012 – Nikon Europe today announces two new super-zoom cameras. The COOLPIX P510, successor to the hugely popular COOLPIX P500, offers an astounding 42x optical NIKKOR zoom lens that reaches a powerful 1000mm super-telephone focal length, down to a 24mm wide-angle. It also packs a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and advanced lens-shift vibration reduction. The 16-megapixel L810, successor to the COOLPIX L120, gets closer to the action than ever, thanks to a 26x extreme wide-angle optical zoom lens.

“With its record-breaking focal length of 1000mm, the P510 is able to capture detail that would be too far to reach with any other camera. Steady shots are ensured in any situation, thanks to advanced lens-shift vibration reduction,” comments Nicolas Gillet, Product Manager for Consumer Products at Nikon Europe. “Meanwhile, the L810 is an easy-to-use super-zoom model, now with a greater focal range and a more detailed 16-megapixel image sensor than its predecessor, the COOLPIX L120.”

Nikon P150

Zooming beyond expectations: the high performance COOLPIX P510
An excellent performer with unparalleled range, the compact COOLPIX P510 boasts a 42x zoom, a tiltable high resolution 921K-dot LCD monitor and Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound.

For everything from wide-angle shots of a group of friends to long-reaching frames of dolphins out at sea, the astonishingly powerful wide-angle to super-telephoto range of the COOLPIX P510 covers all circumstances. Its 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and advanced lens-shift vibration reduction ensure sharp shooting in any light, so that even at longer focal lengths, frames remain steady and subjects are pin-sharp.

One-touch access to movie mode means you can switch easily from taking stills to filming in Full HD

(1080p) with stereo sound. Optical zoom and autofocus functions are still available when filming, and the COOLPIX P510 can record in slow or fast motion using speeds of up to 120 fps (VGA). Movies can be shot in iFrame format and a built-in HDMI connector lets you connect the camera directly to an HDTV, to view photos and films straight away with family and friends.

The tiltable high resolution LCD monitor will help you discover your creative side, making it easy to take shots from above or below to get a different perspective. Built-in GPS records the exact location where a picture was taken as a geotag in the image data.

The COOLPIX P510 comes in three colours: Black, red and dark grey.

Nikon-L810

Affordable performance that is built for life: the COOLPIX L810
With a super-zoom lens and 720p movie recording, the COOLPIX L810 offers great technology that is easy-to-use, to make sure memorable moments are reliably captured. Easy Auto mode optimizes all settings according to the light you are in, making shooting effortless.

The NIKKOR 26x extreme wide-angle optical zoom lens with 22.5–585mm range will cover everything from sweeping vistas to distant action. Meanwhile, an innovative side control lever ensures smooth, steady zooming throughout the entire focal range whether filming or shooting still images, and Lens shift VR (vibration reduction) counters the effects of camera shake. Meanwhile, a 16-megapixel CCD image sensor and four different automatic anti-blur functions ensure sharp images every time.

All this is powered by convenient AA batteries so you don’t have to worry about running out of power– whether you’re at home or travelling abroad.

The COOLPIX L810 comes in four colours: Black, red, blue and warm grey.

P510: Additional Features

• Auto HDR mode: capture images with impressive tonal detail in any situation when you shoot in HDR mode. The camera combines two shots taken at different exposures during a single shutter release to create an image with wide dynamic range and rich colour gradation.
• Easy Panorama 360/180: pan vertically or horizontally to create dynamic panoramas.
• 3D shooting mode: create a 3D image of any still subject to be played back on 3D-capable TVs and computers. The camera combines two images taken from different positions; the second shot is taken automatically when the camera detects that you are in the right position.
• High-speed continuous shooting: shoot up to 5 full-resolution shots at 6 fps, or up to 30 full-resolution shots at 1 fps.
• Mode dial with manual exposure modes (P/S/A/M) and User mode, where you can recall your preferred camera settings instantly.
• Wireless transfer: compatible with Eye-Fi X2 (or later) cards. Transmit your digital photos (in JPEG format) directly to your phone or personal computer, and then connect to the Internet to take advantage of Nikon’s photo sharing service, my Picturetown.
• Retouch menu: enhance your photos in-camera with a range of filter effects. Includes options such as Selective Colour, which converts your image to monochrome then adds a splash of colour to an area of your choice, and Cross Screen, which lends a starry effect to bright objects.

L810: Additional Features

• Crisp 720p video recording: record life in motion with ease. A dedicated movie-record button makes it easy to begin recording, and you can use the optical zoom with autofocus while filming.
• Anti-blur: Lens shift VR (vibration reduction) counters the effects of camera shake. High ISO (up to 1600) light sensitivity for sharper images in low light. Motion detection compensates for camera and subject movement. Best shot selector (BSS) selects the sharpest of up to ten sequential shots.
• 3D shooting mode: create a 3D image that can be played back on 3D-capable TVs and computers.
• Easy sharing: connect directly to an HDTV via the camera’s built-in HDMI connector.
• Smart portrait system: snap perfect portraits every time. Smile timer takes the shot when your subject smiles. Blink proof alerts you when someone’s eyes were closed. Skin softening adjusts uneven skin tones for smoother-looking skin. Red-eye Fix corrects false eye colour due to the flash.
• Wireless transfer: compatible with Eye-Fi X2 (or later) cards. Transmit your digital photos (in JPEG format) directly to your phone or personal computer, and then connect to the Internet to take advantage of Nikon’s photo sharing service, my Picturetown.

ViewNX 2
ViewNX 2 is an all-in-one software package that enables users to quickly and easily import, browse, edit and share still images and movies. Building upon the highly successful ViewNX software, ViewNX 2 is a user-friendly suite that offers a huge range of features, going well beyond those supplied as part of a PC’s operating system. Newly-incorporated movie-editing functions have been taken directly from Nikon’s award-winning DSLR range, enabling users to create stunning movie footage. ViewNX 2 is included with all Nikon digital cameras and is also available as a free download.

EXPEED C2
The original EXPEED image processing system incorporated all of the accumulated expertise and technologies developed throughout Nikon’s long history. Now, the latest evolution of Nikon’s renowned system, EXPEED C2, expands the possibilities of photography even further, with enhanced movie recording, high-sensitivity performance and maximum image quality. EXPEED C2 maximizes sensor performance for clear, life-like images that exhibit vivid colors, reduced noise and smooth tonal gradations for outstanding photos and movies.

Nikon my Picturetown
You can now back-up your images safely and securely using my Picturetown (www.mypicturetown.com), the free online digital photo storage and sharing service brought to you by Nikon. Easily share photo memories with friends and organise precious memories into online collections. You get 2GB of space free to use for storing thousands of memories and you can upgrade your membership to Gold Account at any time if you need to store more pictures.

UCT Digital Photography course
Learn everything you need to know to operate your digital SLR camera with ease and finesse. Learn how to take photos like a professional in manual mode, and discover practical and artistic techniques to take your photography to the next level.
Click here for more details

UCT (CFMS) Photoshop course
Learn all the basic skills and principles you need to operate Photoshop, the industry-leading image manipulation software. Expand your portfolio of digital skills and learn to perform your own image retouching, design and other editing tricks.
Click here for more details

To claim your R500 discount, quote “Photography Blog” as the promo code when registering for the course by 17 February 2012.

For more information, contact Amy-Jane on 021 447 7565 or amyjane@getsmarter.co.za.  Alternatively, visit www.GetSmarter.co.za.

AF-S-NIKKOR-85mm

Boasting a stellar combination of classic focal length and large (f/1.8) aperture, as well as a re-designed optical system that meets the requirements of today’s D-SLRs, it delivers superb image quality and offers photographers an affordable way to take advantage of Nikon’s rich legacy of renowned 85mm NIKKOR optics.

Romi Jacobs, Chief Brand Officer for Nikon in South Africa, says: “this lens is perfect for anyone who loves to shoot portraits. It’s a great way for photographers to experience the advantage that a fast medium-telephoto lens can bring, either in the studio or when making the most of natural light.”

Classic character

The classic 85 mm focal length allows for tight head and shoulder shots with extreme detail.

The fast f/1.8 aperture perfectly balances sharpness so you can single out subjects beautifully, and it provides a bright viewfinder image that makes it easier to compose your shots. An excellent choice when shooting in low light, the fast aperture also helps you shoot with available light and still capture striking, sharp images.

New optical design

A portrait lens perfectly suited to the digital era, its all-new optical design is optimized to meet the requirements of today’s D-SLRs. Compromising 9 elements in 9 groups, it offers superb image quality and makes an attractive choice for videographers. The dedicated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures discreet but accurate autofocus.

Ergonomics

Weighing in at only 350 grams, this weather-sealed compact new 85mm lens is lighter than its predecessors. Compatible with Nikon FX-format D-SLRs, it offers a 127.5mm (equivalent) focal length when used with Nikon DX-format D-SLRs, and is fully compatible with entry level D-SLRs that do not have a built in autofocus motor.

The lens is supplied with a lens hood HB-62, and a soft pouch CL-1015.

AF-S-NIKKOR-85mm

Nikon D4

On 6 Jan 2012 Nikon in South Africa announced the launch of the D4 , its new flagship D-SLR for photographers who need the ultimate in photography.

Made to shatter limits and realise every shooting opportunity, this professional FX-format camera brings new levels of image quality, speed and precision to both still photography and video.

Equipped with a 16.2-megapixel FX-format sensor, phenomenally high ISO and Nikon’s powerful EXPEED3 image processing engine, it offers uncompromised performance and unrivalled versatility in extreme lighting and environmental conditions.

“With the Nikon D4, we’ve launched the ultimate in photography,” says Romi Jacobs, Chief Brand Officer for Nikon in South Africa. “If you’re a photographer at the top of your game, then you need a camera that won’t ever let you down – and that’s the Nikon D4. It’s been built to push limits – just as the photographers that will use it push limits every day in their work.”

Uncompromised Image quality—Exceptional speed

Engineered to deliver remarkable image integrity in the most diverse lighting conditions, the D4 offers blisteringly fast fps performance and sets a new benchmark in low-noise performance. The 16.2 megapixel FX-format (full-frame) CMOS sensor with fast channel readout delivers up to 11 fps—faster than any other Nikon camera.

Images of remarkable quality with low noise and wide dynamic range can be realized even at high ISO sensitivities thanks to the optimized noise reduction design and 14-bit A/D signal processing built into the sensor. The phenomenal ISO range sets a new benchmark of ISO12800 and extends the range one EV further to make ISO 100 a standard. For more challenging conditions, equivalent ISO 50 and ISO 204,800 sensitivities make the D4 the camera of choice for photographers who typically face extreme lighting challenges.

Super-charged EXPEED3 image processing engine

Thanks to Nikon’s next-generation EXPEED3 image-processing engine, the D4 makes light work of multiple data-rich tasks without sacrificing the speed and quality that pros are accustomed to. High-speed 16-bit image processing follows the 14-bit A/D conversion to deliver submission-ready JPEGs straight out of the camera. Performance is never compromised, even when undertaking the most data-intensive tasks. Images boast faithful, well-saturated colour and natural depth. Even when shooting in dim lighting at high ISO sensitivities, the camera’s intelligent, performance-proven noise reduction lowers noise without degrading image sharpness.

Broadcast quality video

For professionals whose workflow demands video, the D4 offers all the flexibility required for a wide variety of movie applications. It’s large format movie shooting at its best, with a comprehensive variety of frame rates.

Frame rates: Full HD (1080p) movies can be recorded in 30p, 25p and 24p, with 60p, 50p, 30p and 25p options at 720p. Movie clips can be close to 30 minutes long (approx. 29.59 min).

Multi-area mode: Full HD (1080p) recording is possible in both FX and DX based formats as well as in native Full HD (1920×1080) crop.

High-fidelity audio control: responding to feedback from the industry, the D4 introduces new possibilities for D-SLR audio recording that enable your movies to sound as good as they look. Aside from the external stereo microphone input, an audio out for external headphones lets you fine tune audio for movie recording in isolation.

Uncompressed HDMI output: for those who need the purest video output for professional quality editing, the D4 offers the possibility to output the uncompressed live view to external recorders and monitors. The first time this has been possible in an SLR camera, data is output at 1080i (Full HD) at the designated image size and frame rate. Data output can be scaled down if necessary and is clean of the information overlay that can be simultaneously displayed on the camera’s TFT monitor.

Convenient custom controls: live view operation is enhanced thanks to convenient custom controls. Instead of rotating the command dial, power aperture enables smoother aperture control via assigned buttons on the front of the camera. Index marking enables important frames to be tagged in the timeline during movie recording, which makes for easy location during editing.

New levels of speed and accuracy

When it comes to nailing decisive moments, the D4’s enhanced auto operation gives photographers a clear advantage.

Advanced scene recognition with 91K-pixel RGB sensor: Nikon’s revolutionary Advanced Scene Recognition System now incorporates the newly designed 91,000-pixel RGB sensor, that meticulously analyses each scene for outstanding accuracy.

3D-subject tracking is particularly improved when shooting and tracking smaller subjects. Human faces are detected with startling exactness even when working with the optical viewfinder only. This level of detailed scene analysis is also utilized to support more accurate autofocus and auto exposure, even under the most challenging lighting conditions.

Advanced Multi-CAM3500FX AF Sensor Module: Nikon’s highly acclaimed Multi-CAM 3500FX AF system —with individually selectable or configurable 9-, 21- and 51-point coverage settings — has been re-engineered for faster subject detection.

The autofocus sensor module and algorithms significantly improve low light acquisition sensitivity capabilities down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20°C/68°F). All 51 AF sensors, of which 15 are cross-type sensors, are fully responsive with any AF NIKKOR lens f/5.6 and—for the first time—this superb performance does not end at f/5.6 apertures.

Powerful AF sensors compatible up to f/8: the D4 maintains the power of the 11 central AF sensors, even if the combined open aperture value is f/8. A big plus for shooting sports and wildlife, this delivers a new level of detection potential when combining, for example, a 600mm f/4 AF-NIKKOR lens with a NIKKOR 2.0x teleconverter. If the combined aperture value is between f/5.6 and f/8, you even have the power of fifteen central AF sensors available, of which nine are cross type sensors.

Faster total workflow speed

The D4’s speed runs across its entire workflow.

Newly developed Kevlar/carbon fiber-composite shutter unit: the new, highly durable shutter unit offers a standard life cycle rating of 400,000 releases, with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 to 30s and flash synchronization at up to 1/250 sec. An intelligent self-diagnostic shutter monitor and a drive unit reduce the demand on power when the shutter is raised for extended periods during movie shooting.

Fast response: start-up is approx. 0.12 seconds¹, release time lag is minimized to approx. 0.042² seconds (equivalent to that of the D3S), with approx. up to 11 fps capability in FX-format and all crop modes.

Storage media: the D4 offers two card slots. One for high-speed CF (UDMA 7) cards and one for high-speed, high-capacity XQD card slots.

Connectivity: a powerful data communication and control system makes both wired and wireless LAN file transfer faster and easier than ever. Wireless LAN support is available via the compact, newly designed WT-5 Wireless Transmitter, which features HTTP and FTP connection modes and also allows for the simultaneous release of several cameras equipped with WT-5. For the first time, a wired LAN connection is integrated into the camera body.

Always up to the job

Every millisecond can count, and the D4’s improved operability helps photographers respond quickly to changing situations.

Intuitive horizontal and vertical control: each orientation has identically laid-out controls, conveniently placed so that the camera may quickly become an extension of your hand whether you shoot in landscape or portrait.

Simplified AF and AF-area mode selection: now possible without taking your eye away from the viewfinder.

Precision 8-cm (3.2-in.), approx. 921k-dot, wide-viewing-angle LCD monitor with automatic brightness control. The monitor delivers bright, crisp image playback with a much wider colour reproduction capacity. LCD brightness is automatically adjusted according to the viewing environment and images can be magnified up to 46x during playback, which can be a big help for spot focus confirmation.

Glass prism optical viewfinder: offers approximately 100% frame coverage and 0.7x magnification (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1.0m-1). The high eyepoint design of Nikon’s viewfinders is renowned for minimizing visual fatigue when using the camera for extended periods of time.

Dual-axis electronic virtual horizon: offers accurate confirmation of level shooting by letting you check the LCD monitor, or the viewfinder, for both the camera’s position in relation to the horizontal plane and its pitch (forward or rear rotation).

Direct access to Picture Controls: via a dedicated button, rather than the menu. Picture Controls let you customize the look of your stills and videos by fine-tuning parameters such as sharpness, saturation, and hue.

Complete control over workflow

The D4 is built for speed, but not for speed alone. Readiness and versatility go hand in hand with control options that can deliver a real advantage when time is of the essence.

Time-lapse movies: the D4 extends the popular time-lapse photography function by saving images as a movie file in the camera. With playback rates from 24 to 36,000 times faster than normal.

HDR (High Dynamic Range): shoots one overexposed and one underexposed frame in a single shutter release. The range can be widened by up to 3 EV for different looks, full of saturation and tonal gradation. The smoothness of the edge where the two exposures meet can be adjusted for a more natural look.

Refined colour temperature control: enables minute control over white balance. The monitor hue of live view and the resulting image’s white balance can be adjusted so that the two are aligned. Colour temperature can be manually set in 10-Kelvin increments, or in mired units.

Four image area options: you can choose from a variety of image crop modes, all visually masked in the viewfinder. 5:4 (30.0 x 24.0 mm), 1.2x (30.0 x 19.9 mm), and DX-format (23.4 x 15.6 mm).

In-camera editing: captured images and movies can be altered and edited in camera and on the fly if required. Retouch menus include an array of useful features such as NEF (RAW) processing, resize, distortion and perspective control just to name some of them. On top of that it has the ability to designate the start and end point of movie clips all at once, in order to save them more efficiently.

Accessories

Compact WT-5 Wireless Transmitter (optional): attaches to the camera’s designated interface connector and is powered by the camera body. It features HTTP and FTP connection modes and allows for the simultaneous release of several cameras equipped with WT-5.

GP-1 GPS unit (optional): records location information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and time (UTC) as ‘geotags’ in the image data (Exif) and allows simultaneous operation together with the WT-5.

Compact Stereo Microphone ME-1 (optional): records clear sound while significantly reducing mechanical noise.

Nikon SB-910 (optional)—Unparalleled lighting performance: offers versatile i-TTL for on-camera or wireless flash control, refined operability and a powerful guide number of 34/112 (ISO 100, m/ft, STD, FX format, zoom 35mm). Menus and controls have been improved for more operational ease. Hard-type incandescent and fluorescent colour filters are included, which can adjust your D4’s white balance instantly.

Capture NX 2 (optional)—Fast, powerful and creative image processing: to accommodate the imaging power of the D4, Capture NX 2 is faster than before and boasts full 64-bit compatibility.

Camera Control Pro 2 (optional)—Versatile remote camera controls: aside from controlling exposure mode, shutter speed, and aperture, this software now offers numerous improvements to make the D4’s live view operation exceptionally smooth. New creative controls include remote start and stop for movie shooting and the option to switch quickly between stills and movies in live view.

ViewNX 2 (supplied)—Browse, edit, share and more: bundled, all-in-one software implements an easy-to-use interface and an array of editing functions, including basic editing of RAW files and D-Movies. Seamlessly integrates with my Picturetown, Nikon’s photo sharing and storage service

¹ Based on CIPA Standards

² When used together with batteries other than EN-EL15

The New Nikon D4

Nikon - SB 910

Johannesburg, South Africa, 30 November 2011 – Nikon in South Africa today introduced a brand-new flagship i-TTL (intelligent TTL) Speedlight – the Nikon SB-910 – that replaces the highly regarded SB-900.

Fast, versatile and powerful, with re-designed menus and controls, the SB-910 offers extensive opportunities for on-camera or wireless flash photography. A powerful tool for professionals who demand studio quality lighting, it combines enhanced operation with an extended zoom range of 17-200mm and three illumination patterns for total control over flash coverage.

“The SB-900 cemented its position as a class-leading flash”, says Romi Jacobs, Chief Brand Officer for Nikon in South Africa. She goes on: “and now the new SB-910 is set to continue this legacy, while taking operability to the next level with improved ergonomics and more intuitive control.”..

Light Control

The SB-910 is a powerful portable light source that delivers precise flash exposures and seamless fill-flash performance—even in challenging lighting situations. Perfect for professionals seeking complete control over the quality of light, it offers Centre-weighted, Even and Standard illumination patterns to accommodate any shooting environment and can cover a zoom range of 17-200mm while maintaining an even light distribution. Bounce flash capability is provided through a head that can be tilted up to 90º, down to 7º and rotated horizontally through 180º to the right and to the left. The thermal protection system has been improved allowing more optimal heat detection and recycling time management.

Smooth Operator

The SB-910 boasts refined ergonomics and re-designed menus for more intuitive control, while offering the same reliability as its predecessor. Menus are clearer and the selector dial incorporates a groove so you can feel when you change settings. Illuminated buttons offer better visibility in the dark and the SB-910 includes hard cover (plastic) color filters that are more durable and easier to attach.

Part of the acclaimed Nikon Creative Lighting System, the SB-910 is easily incorporated into multiple-flash lighting set-ups.

Major Features

• Professional i-TTL (intelligent TTL) Speedlight: compatible with FX- and DX-format SLR cameras. Part of the Nikon Creative Lighting System, it offers total control over flash coverage.
• Guide number: 34 (STD)/39 (CW)/31 (EVEN) (FX-format, ISO 100, m, at 35 mm)
  Maximum guide number: 54.5 (CW, FX-format, ISO 100, m, at 135 mm)
• Centre-weighted, Even and Standard illumination patterns: Centre-weighted mode concentrates illumination to the centre of the frame, useful when using a telephoto lens. Even mode diffuses light evenly across the frame, useful when taking group shots. Standard mode offers a standard balance of power and light distribution. Multi-step auto zoom covers wide 17-200mm zoom range.
• Refined ergonomics for intuitive operation. Boasts a large LCD screen, clear menu systems, conveniently placed controls and illuminated buttons that offer more comfortable operation in low light.
• Automatic detection of sensor format: automatically recognizes FX- or DX-format cameras.
• High-speed recycling time of 2.3 seconds when using LR6 NiMH batteries.
• AF-Assist illumination: compatible with Multi-CAM 3500 FX/DX AF sensor module.
• Bounce capability: rotates 180º horizontally to the right and to the left; tilts up to 90º and down to 7º.
• Thermal protection system: warns of excessive heat build up during high intensity firing.
• Hard-type incandescent and fluorescent color filters included.
• Automatic filter detection: Speedlight automatically adjusts the attached camera’s color temperature settings according to the color of the filter being used.
• Firmware can be upgraded via the storage media in the attached camera.

Nikon SB-910

Nikon SB-910

Jordi Brinkman, Product Manager for Nikon Europe, says: “We are really proud to add the EISA award to the accolades already given to the D7000. For our advanced D-SLR users, we always strive to offer cutting-edge technology that will appeal to passionate photographers looking for the next step in creativity.”…

Brinkman continued “That a mid-range D-SLR has won the Advanced category is testament to the fact that we’ve put more high-performance features into the D7000 than you might expect, considering its price point. From its new 16.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor, AF system and metering sensor, to the much more compact, magnesium alloy body, we have had very positive feedback on the features and the massive benefits in ease-of-use and creativity that these bring to the photographer.”

Each year, the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) nominate the best equipment from different categories of audiovisual products released in Europe during the preceding 12 months. It recognises those products that will be appreciated by an enthusiast and professional audience who want high quality and creative features. The awards are chosen by panels representing over 50 prominent photo, video, audio, home theatre and mobile electronics magazines from up to 20 European countries.

European Advanced SLR Camera of the Year 2011-2012: the NIKON D7000

The EISA judges said: “At the head of Nikon’s semi-professional line of cameras, the D7000 is packed with the high-end features it inherited from the company’s D300 and D300S models. The solid body offers high-speed autofocus, a bright 3-inch LCD, dust control, dual SDXC card slots and Full HD Video. An exceptionally good noise-control system means the 16.2-million-pixel-sensor can be used at ISO 3200 and still produce high quality, clean images – even at ISO 12800 noise is not much of an issue. This is a camera that can give amateur photographers professional-looking images.”

BirdlifeSA

BirdLife South Africa is calling for photos for the Save Our Seabirds Festival “Oceans of Life” competition.

Photos can be of cetaceans, fish, coastal species and any marine life as well as seabirds.

The grand prize is a Canon EOS 5D Mark II camera and a 100-400mm L IS USM Lens- worth R42 000!

Visit their website for details http://www.birdlife.org.za/

With assistance from the Trust, students will be provided with photographic training, mentorship and equipment provision, as well as the necessary business and life skills required to create a sustainable income for themselves and others in their communities.

Stefan van der Walt, Chief Executive Officer for Nikon in South Africa comments: “In time we anticipate that many of our students will not only earn a sustainable living through their photography, but also receive recognition as skilled photographers and photojournalists through capturing and showcasing the beauty and diversity of our continent and its people.”

To support this initiative, Nikon in South Africa has designed a handmade bracelet that is manufactured in Africa by the Relate Trust which specialises in raising funds for causes through the enabling and maintaining of employment opportunities for unskilled labour forces.

All proceeds from the sale of this bracelet will be donated to ensure the Nikon Africa Trust is able to continue creating photographers of the future.

Nikon Africa Trust bracelets will be available from Nikon Authorised Dealers in South Africa and sold at R40 (forty rand) each.

“It takes something as small as buying a bracelet to change someone’s life forever.” – Romi Jacobs, Chief Brand Officer for Nikon in South Africa.

Mike Ormrod explains, “Orms Connect is an opportunity for us to give back to our loyal community by creating a place where any- and everyone interested in photography can gather, interact and share ideas.”

Orms Connect is jam packed with exciting features:
The Connect Blog is a daily updated source of insightful photography related news, events and entertainment.

The Community Galleries display the best work that has been submitted by the talented and passionate Orms fans and customers.

The Ask A Pro section allows users to pose categorised questions to a select group of photography industry professionals.  These include the likes of Craig Kolesky, Greg Beadle, Dylan Culhane, Thomas Ferreira, Paul Hofman and Jacques Koudstaal.

The Featured Pros Gallery will showcase the work of the talented individuals making a living from their passion in South Africa, while the Pro Advice section will be a place where professionals are given the opportunity to blog about what they feel to be relevant and of interest to the industry.

Ease of use in the comments sections is optimised by allowing users to login with any of their existing social network accounts.  No time-consuming registration is required.

“The name, Orms Connect, was specifically chosen to convey the purpose of this online portal.  I sincerely hope that the website will be a catalyst and contributor to the growing photographic industry in South Africa.  It aligns with my personal passion to get the rest of the world to stand up and take notice of what we’re doing down here in Southern Africa.”

The link www.ormsconnect.co.za will go live this morning 19 April, at 09h30.

Nikon D5100

Johannesburg, South Africa, 5 April 2011: Nikon introduces a new D-SLR to its line-up, the D5100, which is packed with features to make shooting stills or full HD movies more exciting than ever. The D5100 will give you a new creative perspective thanks to its improved vari-angle screen, special effects mode and full (1080p) HD Movie.

Romi Jacobs, Chief Brand Officer for Nikon in South Africa, says: “The D5100 is a great camera that allows you to express your artistic side through impressive images and movies. You can shoot with creative effects and unique angles, all at the level of superior image quality seen in the D7000!”

Unique viewing angles

The successor to the popular Nikon D5000, the D5100 features an improved vari-angle LCD screen. The screen now opens horizontally for greater maneuverability, even when using a tripod. This freedom of movement adds unparalleled creativity when using Live View, allowing shooting from virtually any angle. You can also view pictures and movies in more detail on the high resolution (approximately 921k-dot), 7.5 cm (3-in.) wide-viewing angle monitor.

The Live View function is a simple and intuitive way of taking pictures and with the D5100’s dedicated switch it is even more straight-forward to operate. When using Auto mode you do not even need to worry about the scene you are shooting, as Scene Auto Selector chooses the most appropriate settings to give you the best image.

Inspire your creativity
The D5100 has a newly introduced special effects mode to shoot amazingly unique pictures and full (1080p) HD movies. The range of seven effects include selective colour, where you select up to three colours to appear in the still or movie while other areas are monochrome, and miniature effect, which makes an image appear like a view of miniature scale. You can select which special effect to shoot in and they are directly accessible via the mode dial on the top of the camera.

Stunning HD movies

The Nikon D5100 makes it effortless to switch between shooting stills and movies as the D-Movie button is located next to the shutter release. This position gives a more stable grip on the camera when starting or stopping filming, or switching between shooting stills and movies. You can record all the action in full (1080p) HD at up to 30fps, there is the unique range of special effects to choose from and the AF-F will ensure your subject is always in focus. When you have finished you can use the in-camera-movie editing functions and it can all be viewed on HD television through HDMI connectivity.

With the D5100 Nikon is also introducing an optional stereo microphone, the ME-1. Specifically designed for D-SLRs, it lets you record movie clips in high-quality stereo sound with no AF-noise.

Superior image quality

The D5100 makes it easy to achieve superior image quality, even in low-light conditions, with features inherited from the D7000. The DX-format 16.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, delivers rich colors and fine detail for both pictures and movies, whilst the powerful image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, maximizes the performance of the sensor for exceptional quality. Adding to this the D5100 has an expanded sensitivity range to further help capture brilliant images in challenging light conditions – the ISO ranges from 100 to 6400 and can be raised to ISO 25600 at Hi 2, for low-noise images that do not lose the details. Furthermore, there are a wide range of NIKKOR lenses which contribute to the D5100’s impressive image quality.

Nikon’s new High Dynamic Range (HDR) function and Active D-Lighting retain the detail when there are extreme contrasts in light. HDR takes two images at varying exposures in a single release, which are combined to produce a single image with a wider dynamic range.

Razor-sharp 11-point AutoFocus system:

The 11-point AF system offers fast and precise autofocus coverage across the frame.

Four AF-area modes, including 3D-tracking AF, which keeps your main subject in focus even if the composition changes quickly in action scenes. This can be accompanied with continuous shooting up to 4 fps to really capture fast moving subjects.

Key features

• Vari-angle LCD monitor: View life at a unique angle with high resolution 921k dot wide-viewing angle screen
• Live View with AF modes: Live View is a straight-forward way of taking pictures and AF modes keep the subject in focus
• Special effects mode: New to the D-SLR range, effects including selective colour and miniature effect for more creative expression when taking stills or movies
• DX-format, 16.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor with EXPEED 2: Inherited from the D7000 for exceptional quality even in poor lighting conditions
• High ISO (100-6400) extendable to Hi 2 (ISO 25600 equivalent): Keeps the detail with low noise in low-light situations
• D-Movie: Full (1080p) HD movies can be taken at up to 30fps. Simple edits can be made in-camera and movies can be watched on HDTV using the HDMI connectivity
• High dynamic range (HDR): Gives detailed shots of high-contrast scenes by combining two shots taken within a single shutter release
• Active D-Lighting: Retains details in highlights and shadows for well balanced images, even if the subject is moving
• Continuous shooting at 4fps: You will not miss that all important fast-moving action shot
• Retouch menu: Gives a range of post editing effects in-camera including movie edits and image resizing
• Picture controls: Lets you set the look and mood of your images before you shoot. Choose from six settings: Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Monochrome, Portrait and Landscape
• Scene modes: Automatically adjusts camera settings, including Picture Controls and Active D-Lighting, for optimal results. Sample photos appear on the display to help select the right mode
• Front and back infrared receivers: ensure maximum usability of the optional ML-L3 remote control when taking self portraits or close-ups
• GPS compatible: Records the exact location of the camera when a picture is taken by using the optional GP-1 unit
• Dual integrated dust reduction system: Image Sensor Cleaning and Airflow Control systems keep dust away from the camera’s image sensor for clear, spot-free images
• Stereo sound: Designed specifically for D-SLRs, Nikon’s optional Stereo Microphone, ME-1, lets you record movie clips in high-quality stereo sound, with no AF noise. Comes with windscreen and soft case accessories