London, February 2nd. Pentax have just unveiled their new digital camera the K-01. This is a 16 megapixel mirrorless camera that also accepts the Pentax K mount series of lenses. This feature alone will please the many loyal Pentax users.

The camera breaks away from a conventional perception of what a digital camera should look like. Pentax commissioned top international designer Marc Newson to produce the K-01.  The camera is a sturdy all metal construction, Marc didn’t want to use plastics as he felt this would compromise a quality product. A new ultra flat f2.8 40mm lens was also designed by Marc.

Watch our specially produced video and find out what inspired Marc with this design for Pentax.  We will do a full review of the K-01 as soon as we can get hold of the camera.

Press release

An interchangeable-lens digital camera designed in collaboration with designer

Marc Newson

PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY LTD. is delighted to announce the launch of the PENTAX K-01 interchangeable-lens digital camera in conjunction with the world’s thinnest interchangeable lens* – the smc PENTAX-DA 40mm F2.8 XS unifocal. This latest addition to the popular Pentax K series and the new lens were both designed in partnership with world renowned designer, Marc Newson.

The PENTAX K-01 features 16.28 megapixels, high-speed burst shooting, an extra-wide sensitivity range with a top sensitivity of ISO 25600** and Full HD video recording.

The camera also features the reliable and ever-popular PENTAX K lens mount, so users can make effective use of their entire range of PENTAX lenses, including those produced for film-format SLR cameras.***

The PENTAX K-01 is a creative and bold step in camera design and has been developed with Newson’s three design themes in mind — TIMELESS, TRUSTY and TOUCHABLE, whilst still maintaining the full array of advanced functions and user-friendly features that you would expect from a digital interchangeable lens camera.

PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY has a strong history of innovation – it was the first to develop colour digital SLRs and front customizable compacts, as well as pioneering concept models created in collaboration with various designers and artists.

Newson’s K-01 is a modern digital camera with a contemporary yet timeless design. The body consists of clean and simple lines creating an elegant graphical composition whilst preserving all the functions of a professional camera. Original-design push buttons and control levers are efficiently laid out across the body, while bright colours are used on two key buttons for instant recognition: red for the video recording button, and green for the functional green button. The combination of machined aluminium and natural rubber provide the user with a tactile and durable piece of technology. The mode dial and the power switch are made of a high-quality aluminium alloy, while the memory card slot and connectors on the comfortable, easy-to-hold grip are covered with protective rubber.

Newson’s original design concept is evident in all elements of the K-01, including the product logo, the camera strap and even on the start-up screen when the K-01 is turned on.

The optical viewfinder and quick-return mirror were eliminated during the design process to allow more freedom in the design of the camera body.  The result is a camera that shows Marc Newson’s originality in every detail.

Speaking of his design inspiration, Marc says: “I wanted to create something that represented quality and expertise in photography. Some of my favourite photographic devices have been Pentax products. I wanted to return to the high quality roots of the brand and create something which was really unique and iconic.”

The K-01 is the perfect choice for anyone looking for their first easy-to-operate digital interchangeable lens camera or those photographers who demand a camera with originality and style. The K-01 makes a wonderful second camera for current PENTAX SLR users requiring a stylish back-up for their photographic system.

The PENTAX K-01 comes in the following colour combinations:

Black with black grip

Black with yellow grip

Silver with black grip

The PENTAX K-01 will be available from end March 2012.

RRPs:

K-01 body only – £629.99

K-01 + 40mm DA XS lens – £679.99

K-01 + DAL 18-55mm lens – £679.99

K-01 + DAL 18-55mm lens + DAL 50-200mm lens - £799.99

Major features

1. Exceptional image quality

The PENTAX K-01 comes equipped with a newly developed CMOS image sensor measuring 23.7 mm by 15.7 mm. With 16.28 megapixels, this sensor ensures a high-speed readout of image data signals. It also offers an extra-wide sensitivity range — from ISO 100 to ISO 12800, or to ISO 25600 when expanded using a custom function — while minimising digital noise at all sensitivity levels.

2. High-quality video recording

The PENTAX K-01 comes equipped with a Full HD video-recording function to capture high-quality movie clips (1920 x 1080 pixels). The H.264 format offers great images whilst recording at a choice of frame rate (30, 25 or 24 frames per second). It also comes with two new features to facilitate video recording: a video recording button for instant pushbutton start, and a stereo microphone for more realistic sound.

Personal touches can be added to recorded clips using various Custom Functions.  Alternatively, the subject can be recorded in a series of video clips using the interval movie shooting mode. The PENTAX K-01 also comes with an HDMI terminal, which allows the user to simultaneously output both Full HD movie clips and stereo sound. It also has an external microphone input terminal. In addition, the K-01 features the new “PRIME M” imaging engine to ensure first-rate movie recording performance.

3. New-generation HDR mode

The HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode, which produces one extra-wide-gradation composite photo from three images taken at different exposure levels, has been upgraded to create a greater range of visual effects.  This upgraded HDR mode can be instantly selected with a turn of the mode dial.  The user can take advantage of newly added features to select one of three exposure increments as well as the level of effects, while an automatic position adjustment function assures precise alignment of three images even when they are taken handheld.

4. A selection of image processing tools for personalised effects

The PENTAX K-01’s Custom Image function allows the user to select the most appropriate imaging characteristics for a particular subject or scene from 11 preset custom image functions. These functions include: Bleach Bypass to create a dramatic visual effect used in motion pictures and Cross Process to produce an image with unusual colours.

5. The K-01 also features 19 distinctive digital filters — including Miniature, which makes a real life scene appear as an image full of miniature models. Users can be as creative and imaginative as they like by applying multiple digital filters to a single image.

6. Smooth, quiet, high-speed burst shooting

The PENTAX K-01’s high-speed burst shooting mode allows users to capture fast-moving subjects in a series of images, as it captures up to five images per second. With its mirrorless construction, the K-01 also offers exceptionally silent mechanical operation.

7. Large, wide-angle 3-inch LCD monitor with approx. 921,000 dots

The PENTAX K-01 features a large, easy-to-view, high-resolution 3-inch colour LCD monitor with approximately 921,000 dots. Its wide-view design guarantees a clear view of the monitor from approximately 170 degrees horizontally and vertically, making it particularly useful in low and high-angle shooting.

8. PENTAX-original SR mechanism for sharp, blur-free images

The PENTAX K-01 incorporates the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively reduces annoying camera shake by approximately four shutter steps. Usable with all compatible lenses, including those produced for film-format SLR cameras. This mechanism produces sharp, blur-free images even under demanding conditions that are prone to camera shake, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark without flash illumination, or capturing landscapes in the twilight.

9. Effortless, user-friendly Auto Picture and Scene modes

The PENTAX K-01 features the PENTAX-original, user-friendly Auto Picture mode, which selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene from Portrait, Landscape, Macro and other distinctive shooting modes, while optimising all camera settings, such as aperture, shutter speed, white balance, saturation, contrast and sharpness. The K-01 also offers 19 different Scene modes, which simplifies the photographing of difficult subjects or demanding scenes — such as Night Scene, Portrait, Pet and Backlight Silhouette mode — simply by choosing the corresponding  icon on the camera’s LCD monitor.

10. Other features

• TTL image-sensor metering, with a choice of multi-segment, centre-weighted and spot modes
• Contrast-detection autofocus system, with 81 selectable focus points
• DR (Dust Removal) mechanism to shake off dust adhering to the surface of the CMOS image sensor
• CTE (Colour Temperature Enhancement) white-balance control mode to emphasize the predominant colour of a particular scene, such as a sunset
• A choice of four image ratios (4:3, 3:2, 16:9 and 1:1) to accommodate different subjects and photographic situations
• Multi-exposure mode (up to nine exposures on a single image), with an auto exposure compensation function
• Interval shooting mode, useful in time lapse recording of landscapes and flowers/plants from an exact same location and angle
• Compatibility with the new-standard SDXC and UHS Speed Class 1 memory cards
• SILKY Developer Studio 3.0 for PENTAX RAW-data development software (developed by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory) included. In-camera RAW-data development also available

Major Features of the smc PENTAX-DA 40mm F2.8 XS lens

1. Exterior design by Marc Newson

Marc Newson designed the exterior of this lens, as well as the K-01 body.

2. Easy-to-use, super-thin lens for everyday use

This unifocal standard lens offers a focal length equivalent to 61mm in the 35mm format, and measures a mere 9.2 mm in length, making it the world’s thinnest interchangeable lens. Thanks to its super-thin design, it is highly portable and easy to store and carry. Its optics were designed based on those of the acclaimed smc PENTAX-DA 40mm F2.8 Limited lens. Its maximum aperture of F2.8 produces sharp, bright images in a wide range of photographic situations, including snapshots, scenic photos, portraits, and even low light indoor shooting.

3. SP coating to block dirt and dust

The front surface of this lens is treated with an SP (Super Protect) coating, which applies an exclusive fluorine compound to the lens surface through a vapour deposition process. This SP coating not only repels dust, water and grease, but also makes it easy to wipe off oily stains such as fingerprints and cosmetics.

Optional Accessory

O-CC120 Camera Case

Like the PENTAX K-01 camera body and the smc PENTAX-DA 40mm F2.8 XS lens, this camera case also features Marc Newson’s original design. Made of genuine leather, this case protects the entire camera system — the K-01 camera body with the lens mounted.

*The world’s thinnest lens for interchangeable-lens digital cameras, as of February 1, 2012 (based on PENTAX’s research).

**When expanded.

*** K-, K_A- K_AF, K_AF2, and K_AF3- mount lenses can be used with the PENTAX K-01, while screw-mount lenses, 645-system lenses and 67-system lenses can be used with an adapter. Some functions may not be available on certain lenses.

It’s that time of year when most consumers are planning and booking their summer holidays.  Dreams of faraway places and sunshine all waiting to be seen and captured on a decent camera. Mobile phones are great but you really can’t beat a dedicated camera.  With these thoughts in mind the manufacturers are rolling out their latest digital cameras hoping to tempt you with their new range. So let’s see what’s on offer this year.

Nikon have just announced their Spring collection with no fewer than fifteen new models in a variety of colours from black through to an electric blue, with a pink thrown in for good measure.

At the entry point is the Coolpix L25, a 10 megapixel camera aimed at anyone just starting out in photography. The camera is fully automatic so all you have to do is think about is the pictures. A 5x wide angle zoom lens ensures you can capture everything from a close up to a family group shot. The Easy Auto Mode optimizes all camera settings depending on the light. If you have had too many beers then the Built-in electronic Vibration Reduction and Motion Detection avoids those shaky moments. The Smart Portrait System includes Smile Timer and Skin Softening, these features will save you a lot of time in your image editing application. No mention of a Sun Burn healer though.

• Available in Black, Red, Silver and White
• Price: £69.99

Next in line is the Coolpix L26, is a 16 megapixel camera which can also capture those embarrassing 720p videos. The camera features an ultra sharp  5X Nikkor Optical wide angle zoom. Images and videos can be quickly uploaded to a phone or PC ready to share with your mates.

• Available in Red, Silver and Black
• Price: £99.99

The Coolpix S2600 is an ultra slim camera (19.5mm wide) which can be discreetly taken everywhere, ready to capture a first snap of your new baby or a video of the lads down at the rugby club. The camera has an Easy Auto mode, so even if you’re not thinking technical the camera will be. The camera also has a retouch menu and can selectively change colours – great if you don’t like the colour of your new dress.

• Available in Black, Red, Purple with line art
• Exclusive to Argos, (add it to your shopping list)

I simply love the Coolpix S30. This is a camera for that tough kid of yours or the clumsy grandparent who drops everything. The S30 is designed for all the family to use, it can survive being dropped from a height of 0.8m (average height for a toddler with sticky fingers) or if you fall of a pedalo into the sea the camera will survive up to depth of 3m. The camera has large one-touch buttons for easy use. All the family will love using this camera whether it is to shoot a stunning photo or a video of your dog running after the wildlife, the 10 megapixel S30 with its 3X Nikkor zoom will be ready to capture all the action.

• Available in Black, Pink, Blue and White
• Price: £99.99 (kid and grandparent not included)

The Coolpix P310 is a 16 megapixel camera for the person who wants to expand their creative potential. The camera has several modes including; Program, Aperture, Shutter and Manual. Once the modes are mastered the photography bug will bite, there will be no stopping your creativity. The lens is a 24mm ultra wide f1.8 Nikkor zoom, no detail will go un-noticed. The camera can shoot video in Full HD (1080p) you can now watch your blockbuster holiday movies on a 50 inch flat screen TV and re-live those memories in stunning detail.  And just in case you need to see the action again, the camera can also record in slow motion (up to 120fps recording)

• Available in Black and White
• Price: £299.99

The 16 megapixel Coolpix S9300 has a 18x 25 – 450mm Nikkor optical zoom lens, ideal for taking on safari for capturing the wildlife before it catches you. If it’s behind bars at a zoo then the 25mm wide setting may be a better option. In case you can’t remember where you’ve been then the GPS will tag your photos for you. Movie making is a cinch with the S9300, shoot, pause and continue shooting, the camera will put it together for you. A Panorama function lets you pan a scene horizontally (or vertically?) to create a dynamic panorama

• Available in Black, Red, Silver and Blue
• Price: £299.99

The 16 megapixel Coolpix S6300 uses a 10x optical zoom to capture your memories. The camera also has 3D capability, it cleverly combines two images taken from slightly different positions to produce a 3D effect that can be played back on a 3D capable TV or computer. The camera also captures Full HD (1080p) movies, but not in 3D.

• Available in Black, Red and Blue
• Price: £179.99

The 16 megapixel Coolpix P510 is at the top of the Nikon Coolpix range, it has a whopping 42x Nikkor zoom lens which has a focal length range of 24mm to 1000mm. Just in case you’re not that steady, there is also an advanced Lens-Shift Vibration Reduction to help you produce pin sharp photos or video. The camera can capture video in Full HD quality (1080p) together with stereo sound. A built in HDMI connector lets you connect the camera directly to a HDTV, now you can share hours of video and photos with your friends and family – beats Eastenders any day.

• Available in Black, Red, and Dark Grey
• Price: £399.99

The final camera in the Nikon spring launch is the Coolpix L810. This 16 megapixel camera has a 26x zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5mm – 585mm. The super long lens is ideal for creative wide angle artistic photographs through to distant paparazzi style snaps. If your shooting video then the lens incorporates a innovative side control lever ensures smooth steady zooms, this together with Lens Shift Vibration Reduction will ensure your audience doesn’t suffer with visual motion sickness after your show.

• Available in Black, Red, Bronze and Blue
• Price: £229.99

Wow! What a great line up from Nikon, I never expected to see so many new cameras in one go. The cameras all look great, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating. I will test selected models on photo-i in due course. In the mean time just feast your eyes on these lovely beauties.

Vincent

featuring a high-power 20x optical zoom lens

PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. is pleased to announce the launch of the new PENTAX Optio VS20 digital compact camera. The latest addition to PENTAX’s portfolio of compact cameras incorporates a full array of advanced functions and user-friendly features including16 megapixels, a high-power 20x optical zoom lens, and an extra-large, easy-to-view 3-inch colour LCD display.

A highlight of this neat and compact camera is the extra powerful 20x zoom lens which features broad focal-length coverage from wide angle to super-telephoto and a macro mode.  In addition, the camera benefits from an extra shutter-release button and zoom lever to provide a firm, comfortable grip during vertical-position shooting. The camera also comes with a new Handheld Night Snap mode which allows users to capture stunning images with minimal blur and noise even in dim light.

The Optio VS20 will be available in black and white from end of February 2012.  RRP £199.99.

Major Features

1. 20x optical zoom lens with 28mm wide-angle coverage

The Optio VS20 features a high-performance, extra-powerful 20x optical zoom lens covering focal lengths from 28mm wide angle to 560mm super-telephoto (in the 35mm format). Thanks to its extra-wide zoom range, the Optio VS20 allows users to photograph a wide range of subjects and scenes — from landscapes to sports events. It also offers the following advanced features: high-quality macro shooting from a centimetre away from the subject; an Intelligent Zoom function to further extend the zoom range to approximately 144 times to cover the focal length of a  super-telephoto lens  of approximately 4032mm (in the 35mm format) and without compromising image quality.

2. Effortless, comfortable vertical-position shooting

The Optio VS20 features an extra shutter-release button and a second zoom lever, at its grip, to ensure a natural posture and comfortable hold of the camera during vertical-position shooting. The camera automatically adjusts its on-screen display by using its orientation sensor to detect vertical alignment, so the user can effortlessly capture images of vertically extended subjects, such as high-rise buildings. The Optio VS20 even offers a vertical-position tripod socket, allowing the photographer to securely set the camera up with a lighter, more portable tripod.

3. Exceptional image quality

Thanks to the combination of 16 megapixels, a state-of-the-art image engine, a high-performance smc PENTAX zoom lens and the sophisticated CCD-shift-type SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, the Optio VS20 delivers well-defined, high-quality images with extra-fine resolution. Even when images are enlarged, the user is assured of sharp, high-resolution prints with edge-to-edge clarity.

4. Triple anti-shake protection for sharp, blur-free images

(1) CCD-shift-type SR mechanism

The advanced CCD-shift-type SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism produces sharp, blur-free images even in difficult shooting conditions, such as using a telephoto lens, or when shooting a sunset or indoor scene with low light levels.

(2) Digital SR mode*

During still-image shooting, the Optio VS20 automatically detects the brightness of the environment and raises its sensitivity to as high as ISO 6400 to compensate. This user-friendly feature allows the photographer to capture photos at faster shutter speeds to minimise the risk of camera shake and subject shake.

(3) Movie SR mode**

During movie recording, this digital shake-reduction mode effectively compensates for camera shake to produce beautiful, blur-free movie clips.

5. Automatic selection of the most appropriate shooting mode

The Optio VS20 features the PENTAX-developed Auto Picture mode, which automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by accurately assessing various photographic conditions over the entire image field. This user-friendly mode instantly selects one of 15 shooting modes including Blue Sky and Sunset and optimises various camera settings (such as sensitivity and shutter speed), so users can be assured of the best results with minimal effort.

6. New scene modes

Three new scene modes: The Optio VS20 offers Handheld Night Snap, Fish-eye and Sketch. Visual-effect modes, such as Fish-eye, allow the photographer to take pictures while deciding the level of filtering effect on the LCD monitor, making it easy to be more creative with your images.

7. Upgraded auto face recognition function with a new face recall function

The Optio VS20 offers a new face recall function, which puts priority on a pre-registered face when optimising focus and exposure settings. This function comes in handy when taking group shots, since the main subject’s face is always captured sharply and brilliantly. The Optio VS20 also provides the Smile Capture mode that automatically releases the shutter the moment the camera detects the subject’s smile, and Blink Detection that warns the photographer when the subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.

8. High-quality HDTV-standard movie recording with pushbutton start

The Optio VS20 captures beautiful, high-definition-TV-quality movie clips (1280 x 720 pixels).*** Since the camera provides an independent movie recording button on its back panel, the user can instantly start recording movie clips from any shooting mode. It also features three new digital filters (Fish-eye, Miniature andSketch mode) to allow the user to experiment with more diversified visual expressions.

9. Large 3-inch LCD monitor

The Optio VS20 features a high-resolution 3.0-inch colour LCD monitor with approximately 460,000 dots. This extra-large monitor provides a clear view of images and menus, so the user can quickly and efficiently check captured images and menu settings. In addition, the monitor is treated with an AG (Anti-Glare) coating to constantly keep the screen clear and spotless by minimising reflections, stains and fingerprints.

10. Additional features

• Digital level and 48-segment grid display functions for easy confirmation of horizontal and vertical alignment
• Wireless remote-control shooting option using a PENTAX remote control
• Newly added Stretch filter to extend a particular portion of an image for an eye-catching visual effect
• Neck strap included
• 13 digital filters, including newly added Sketch mode, to add creative visual effects
• Choice of three ratios (4:3, 16:9 and 1:1) to accommodate different applications
• D-Range setting to prevent loss of highlight or shadow detail in an image
• Digital Panorama mode to allow users to create a single panoramic picture from three images
• Image viewing, editing and filing software included: MediaImpression 3.1 for PENTAX (Windows version compatible with Windows 7) and MediaImpression 2.1 for PENTAX (Macintosh version compatible with Mac OS X 10.7)

* When the Digital SR mode is selected, the recorded size is fixed at five megapixels (2592 x 1944 pixels).

** When the Movie SR mode is selected, the angle of view becomes narrower than normal shooting mode.

*** When the Optio VS20’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output as normal image-size data. If the user wishes to play back movie clips at high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels), the data must be transferred to a personal computer for playback.

Litepanels®, A Vitec Group brand, announces the premier of the Croma™ LED light. Ideal for use on-camera or off, the new sleekly designed fixture provides Litepanels’ hallmark HD-friendly soft light, with variable color temperature output from daylight (5600°K) to tungsten (3200°K)

Croma is a versatile solution for run-and-gun news shooters, event videographers, or still photographers who move rapidly from one light environment to the next without time to change lighting equipment. Plus, this self-contained light can be a secret weapon on any set or location wherever extra kick or nice fill is needed.

Croma provides infinite control of both color temperature and lighting intensity via two ergonomic on-fixture dials. One offers the ability to dim from 100% to zero with no noticeable color shift. The second lets the user dial-in the fill light to any point between daylight (5600°K) and tungsten (3200°K) to precisely match the ambient light.

The Croma draws just 9W, and provides the equivalent luminance output of 40W – 90W traditional fixtures. To power the fixture, the user has the choice of AA batteries, optional AC adapter or a DV Adapter Plate designed to mount Sony, Canon, Panasonic DV battery packs. Six 1.5V AA batteries install within Croma to provide power from 1.5 to 6 hours, depending on battery type.

The compact Croma weighs just12 oz. (.4 kg) and measures 6” x 4” x 2” (54mm H x 36mm W x 102mm D

To facilitate positioning when mounted on the camera, Croma comes complete with a metal ball head shoe mount featuring a 1/4 x 20 thread. Also supplied with the light is a carrying case and diffusion gel filter kit. An optional baseplate is available for off camera use.

For more information on Croma or other Litepanels LED lighting, contact Litepanels, Inc., 16152 Saticoy Street, Van Nuys, CA 91406, Email: info@litepanels.com,

www.litepanels.com

Eastman Kodak Co, the photographic film pioneer, tried to restructure the company by becoming a seller of consumer products including cameras, printers and other digital consumables. Kodak obtained a $950m, 18-month credit facility from Citigroup to keep it afloat.

Kodak has been under pressure since September 2011 when it drew cash from a credit line, tipping investors off to liquidity issues. The management and board were briefed on Friday 13^th (unfortunate date) about the company’s efforts to secure bankruptcy financing. Antonio M Perez, chairman and chief executive said “The board of directors and the entire senior management team unanimously believe that this is a necessary step and the right thing to do for the future of Kodak”.

Kodak is struggling to sell a portfolio of patents that would help bolster its cash position, they have also filed a lawsuit against Samsung for alleged infringement of patents related to Kodak digital imaging technology.

New beginnings for Kodak

Have we seen the beginning of the end for the photography giant? I don’t think so. Kodak will need to take a hard look at what steps it needs to take in order to secure its future. Maybe they should take a leaf out of their own book and see what made them the great photographic leader over the years.

The introduction of digital photography has turned the entire photographic industry around, we have seen the lights dimmed or going out for many of the great names including; Polaroid, Agfa, Contax, Bronica, Durst, De-Vere and countless others. Yet, at the same time we have seen newer companies enter the photographic arena such as Epson – once leader in dot matrix printers, now arguably the number one company for photographic printers, Adobe and countless smaller manufacturers providing everything from memory cards to sophisticated digital cameras.

Companies are thriving on the rapidly expanding digital market, so where did Kodak go wrong? My belief is that Kodak rested on their laurels for far too long, they were late coming into the market with the right products. Although at the outset they were the leaders with Kodak branded high end DSC digital cameras (made by Nikon & Canon). At the time Kodak catered for the top end of the market but left the entry level vacant. The Kodak film line was highly successful and Kodak reaped the rewards from this, but hard on its heels was the home produced digital print.

Kodak eventually produced inkjet papers, but these fell far short of the quality that Kodak had built its reputation on. Their digital camera line up also lacked a sexy look, consumers wanted cameras that had style and were as much a statement of the owner, as well as being able to produce stunning photos. Kodak played things too safe with non-inspired looking boxes.

Maybe Kodak can turn things around by looking back and producing digital cameras based on their successful Retina range of cameras – after all retro is the new look.

A short guide to the windcutter windshield and how to improve your location audio.

With high-quality wireless printer

January 12th 2012 – Announcing the Epson Stylus Photo 1500W, Epson offers photo enthusiasts a wireless, A3+ printer with an unbeatable combination of convenience and superior specifications for high-quality, glossy photo output.

The 1500W can print from anywhere thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows fast, easy printing from laptops, desktops and the latest generation of mobile devices such as iPhones and iPads via Epson’s iPrint app.

Simon Hanly, product manager at Epson UK, says: “We are delighted to offer our customers the convenience of wireless connectivity – a feature not provided by competing A3+ photo printers. Not only does it make life easier when printing from mobile devices, but it gives users the freedom to position the printer wherever they want in their home or office.”

A wide range of printing projects can be undertaken with the 1500W, which prints on glossy paper, plain paper, envelopes, iron-on transfers plus CDs and DVDs. Standard 4 x 6 inch (10 x 15cm) photos all the way up to panoramic and A3+ prints are supported.

The 1500W uses Epson’s Claria 6-colour, dye-based ink-set to achieve vivid and long-lasting results with a glossy finish. Coupled with the resolution up to of 5760 x 1440dpi and small 1.5pl droplet size, this yields high-quality prints with fine detail and smooth tonal gradations.

The Epson Stylus Photo 1500W will be available from 1 March 2012 priced at £349.99.

Ends.

We have the Epson Stylus Photo 1500W here and will publish our review shortly.