If Canon had any doubts about how well the Canon EOS 5D Mark II would sell during this economic crisis, all of those doubts would have disappeared long ago, some 3 months after first hitting the shelves the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is still in short supply. This US$2700 camera with its ultra sharp HD Video Recording and Low light performance, is every photo and tech geeks must have, Just do a search in Twitter for “5D Mark II” you will see tweet after tweet of reports of proud new 5D Mark II owners who would not swap it for the world.

So why is during this economic down turn people are still willing and able to fork out US$2700 (US$3500 with lens) for this, is there a segment of the community who are unaffected or don’t expect the crisis to affect them, or is it the economic crisis is over reported in the media?

It’s a hard one to call, but whatever the reason Canon really hit the nail on the head with the 5D Mark II, both in terms of marketing and the features/specs.

If you are still trying to buy a Canon EOS 5D Mark II Adorama have been shipping quicker than all other Camera retailers and I have been told they are expecting another shipment very soon, which is not yet fully allocated to customers, so get in and order quick before they are allocated.

Buy Now - Canon EOS 5D Mark II (Body Only) US$2,699
Buy Now - Canon EOS-5D Mark II Digital SLR Camera Body Kit with EF 24-105L Image Stabilized Lens US$3499

Canon has released Canon RAW Codec version 1.4.1 which adds support for Canon EOS 5D Mark II with its recent 1.0.7 firmware update

More details and the download can be found here:

Canon RAW Codec  Ver 1.4.1 Update

Due to the fall of the British pound Nikon have had to increase the cost of its newly released flagship D3x by 10%.

The original list price of the Nikon D3x was £5500 (US$8050) but due to these currency fluctuations the D3x’s list price has increased to £6000 (US$8800) or a whopping 10%.

The only advice I have for UK photographers is to shop around or start earning US Dollars  

Nikon have released a firmware upgrade for the Nikon D700, this latest firmware for the D700 is version 1.01 and includes the following improvements and fixes:

• When Custom Setting a4 Focus tracking with lock-on was set to Off in Continuous-servo AF, the lens drive moved gradually without achieving focus.  This issue has been resolved.

• When the Speedlight SB-800 was mounted on the camera with flash mode set to Distance-priority manual (GN) mode, and then the exposure meters were reactivated or the camera was turned on, the distance information displayed on the SB-800 changed.  This issue has been resolved.

• When the Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10 was mounted on the camera and an EN-EL3e battery inserted in the camera but no batteries inserted in the MB-D10, and SB-900 flash mode set to TTL auto flash mode, the flash mode changed to A mode when the exposure meters turned off or were reactivated, or the camera was turned off or on.  This issue has been resolved.  (This issue has also been resolved with SB-900 firmware Ver. 5.02.)
  

• An issue that, in extremely rare cases, resulted in noticeable black dots in images captured with Long exp. NR in the shooting menu set to On has been resolved.

• Manamah, displayed in the Time zone options for the World time item in the setup menu, has been changed to Manama.

Go to the Nikon D700 Firmware Ver 1.01 page

Nikon have released a firmware upgrade for the Nikon D3, this latest firmware for the D3 is version 2.01 and includes the following improvements and fixes:

• Geodetic information is now displayed in ViewNX Ver. 1.2.0 or later and Capture NX 2 Ver. 2.1.0 or later for images captured with the GPS Unit GP-1 mounted on the camera.

• Autofocus-response performance in focus mode C (Continuous-servo AF mode) with relatively dark subjects has been increased.

• When the AF-ON button is pressed, the monitor turns off and a focus point can now be selected using the multi selector.

• Photo information displayed in full-frame playback has been modified as follows: 

  HI-, LO- has been changed to Hi, Lo
  WARM TONE has been changed to WARM FILTER
  COLOR CUSTOM has been changed to COLOR BALANCE

• Manamah, displayed in the Time zone options for the World time item in the setup menu, has been changed to Manama.

• An issue that, in extremely rare cases, resulted in noticeable black dots in images captured with Long exp. NR in the shooting menu set to On has been resolved.

• When the Speedlight SB-800 was mounted on the camera with flash mode set to Distance-priority manual (GN) mode, and then the exposure meters were reactivated or the camera was turned on, the distance information displayed on the SB-800 changed.  This issue has been resolved.

• An issue that, in some rare cases, caused images captured with the following lenses to be under-exposed, has been resolved. 

AF VR Zoom-Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED (5.0x)

Go to the Nikon D3 Firmware Ver 2.01 page

Canon have released a new firmware for the EOS 40D, its version number 1.1.1 which includes the following improvements and fixes:

• Fixes a malfunction that in rare occurrence causes a low battery indication to be displayed when using the EF 85mm F1.2L II USM lens. Depending on the battery check timing of the camera, the battery level displayed on the camera's LCD data panel may shows Battery will be exhausted soon or Battery must be recharged, even though the battery capacity is sufficient.

• Fixes a malfunction that in rare occurrence causes an Err 06 Self Cleaning Sensor malfunction to appear on the camera's LCD monitor and LCD data panel, even when the Self Cleaning Sensor Unit is operating normally. This message may appear depending on the timing of when the camera is switch to the ON position.

• Fixes a malfunction that prevents correct colors from being printed when direct printing. RAW images captured using the camera's custom Picture Styles (Emerald, etc.), which have been downloaded from Canon's Web site and registered under User Def. 2 or User Def. 3.

• Modifies the level of subject brightness that causes the AF-assist beam to fire when using an external Speedlite.

• Enables an external flash connected to the camera's synchro terminal to fire even when the camera's built-in flash is popped up.

Version 1.1.1 firmware is for EOS 40D cameras with firmware up to Version 1.1.0. If the camera's firmware is already Version 1.1.1, it is not necessary to update the firmware.

Download the Canon EOS 40D Firmware 1.1.1 

Digital cameras have advanced in leaps and bounds in recent years, but today I was amazed to learn that the first Official Presidential Photograph to be taken in digital was released today.  It’s quite a milestone for digital photography.

So I bet you are all wondering which Digital Camera took the first ever Official Digital Presidential Photograph, It was the newly released Canon EOS 5D Mark II.

The photograph is below along with a URL to the original

http://change.gov/newsroom/entry/new_official_portrait_released/

And with the EXIF metadata in lightroom below:

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark II, Dimensions: 1916 X 2608 Exposure: 1/125 sec at f / 10 flash did not fire, ISO 100 

Canon has just released a new firmware for the Canon EOS 5D Mark II to fix the infamous black dot and Vertical Banding Noise issues.

The firmware version is Ver 1.0.7 and can be downloaded from the following page:

http://web.canon.jp/imaging/eosd/firm-e/eos5dmk2/firmware.html

Firmware Update Version 1.0.7 improves and mitigates the following two types of image quality phenomena that occur under certain shooting conditions.

1. “Black dot” phenomenon (the right side of point light sources become black)
2. Vertical banding noise

Firmware Version 1.0.7 is for EOS 5D Mark II cameras with firmware up to version 1.0.6. If the camera’s firmware is already version 1.0.7, it is not necessary to update the firmware.

Notes:

When updating to Firmware Version 1.0.7, please also update the Digital Photo Professional and Picture Style Editor software. Firmware Version 1.0.7 can be downloaded from the bottom of this page. Updates for Digital Photo Professional and Picture Style Editor can be downloaded from the following Web site.

 So what is the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Black Dot Issue?

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II black dot issue rears it ugly head when shooting at higher ISO settings, when photographing bright objects as night (High Contrast) (black dots appear to the right of the bright object), You can see an example of the issue in the sample photograph below:

The Vertical Banding Noise issue was less of an issue as it only appeared when shooting in SRAW1 mode, the work around was to shoot in a different mode.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II owners including myself welcome this update, I am now off to update my camera. 

CameraDojo have done a review of a cheapo white balance lens cap purchased from an ebay vendor in China, its cost was under US$10 that’s over 10X cheaper than the leading product from Expodisc.

Ebay: White Balance Lens Cap less than US$10

The results are quite amazing, well worth the $10 investment, however there is no comparison done against the Expodisc product, one is promised soon.

I have a cheaper solution, a mate mentioned he had great results with white top of a disposable coffee cup ;)

Check out the the Cheapo White Balance Lens Caps on Ebay 

The CameraDojo review can be found here: White Balancing Lens Cap Review

The new and much awaited firmware to fix the Canon 5D Mark II black dot problem is just around the corner with a post on CanonRumors saying that we should see it by the end of January.

In addition to fixing the black dot issue the firmware may add 24p, I am guessing this is 24 fps in for video,  personally I don’t think the firmware will contain additional features apart from fixing the black dot issue, but I guess we will have to wait and see.

Its official at least for Australia, Nikon will be increasing its prices in Australia for pre-orders placed by dealers after 31^st March 2009. The below letter from Nikon to its partners in Australia also reveals that a planned February 1 price increase has been postponed until this new date.

I wonder if we will see some dealers increasing prices before this date?

Dear Nikon partner,

Nikon has experienced an amazing year of growth. New levels of exposure for the Nikon brand has been achieved through activities such as the Nikon INDY 300, Westfield promotions and continued advertising and consumer promotions.  This combined with amazing new products has been driving consumers into your stores and has ensured Nikon’s ongoing health in the Australian market.

Nikon has continued this strong success despite the challenges facing businesses in the current financial climate. The nature of these market challenges has meant that costs have significantly increased and accordingly there is a need to review the current prices available from Nikon Australia on many products.

However, in recognition of the growth being achieved we have decided to postpone the increases until February 1st, 2009.  The proposed February price list and summary of changes is supplied with this letter.

Nikon is committed to ensuring the momentum continues.  To help achieve this, the current supply price on all existing backorders placed before February 1st will be honoured by Nikon until March 31st, 2009. Any existing backorder will maintain its price in our system and new orders that we cannot immediately supply will be backordered at current price.  After this date all issued products and backorders will be converted to the new price structure.

If you do not wish for these items to be supplied at the higher price you will need to change the orders prior to them being shipped after April 1st, 2009.  Due to an expected increase in demand Nikon Australia cannot guarantee supply of all items prior to April 1st, 2009.  We will of course endeavuor to supply all backorders as soon as possible.

I encourage you to take advantage of this chance to give outstanding value to consumers across the Nikon range and capitalise on future profit opportunities.

If you have any questions about this revision or wish to place an order at this month’s prices please contact your account manager.

Thank you for your support in 2008.  We look forward to supporting you during this all important period and throughout 2009.

Regards
Nikon Australia

Canon Speedlite 700 EX Rumour: CanonRumors have reported on a possible new flash from Canon the Speedlite 700Ex, the few rumoured specifications are as follows:

• Higher Guide Number
• 1.6, 1.3, 1.0 Crop Modes
• Better Vertical Swivel
• Metering from 10mm(EF-S)-250mm
• Weather Sealed
• New Battery Door

More than 50-million units produced since 1959

Canon celebrates the 50th anniversary of the sale of Canon’s first single-lens reflex camera in 1959. Over the past half-century, Canon SLR cameras have evolved with the times, incorporating advanced and groundbreaking technologies. Winning the widespread support of users worldwide, production of Canon SLR cameras have already surpassed the 50-million* unit mark.

“Canon has a long and proud history of producing SLR cameras that both set the technology benchmark and evolve to satisfy the needs of all users from professional shooters to entry-level users,” said Chris MacLeod, Brand Manager – EOS, Canon Australia. “With the advent of digital technology and outstanding affordability for consumers, we’re witnessing a creative revolution as people discover the possibilities now within their grasp. Our newly released EOS 5D Mark II is a great example, creating huge demand from people excited about taking exceptionally high-quality stills and Full HD movies with the same camera.”

The history of Canon 35 mm single-lens reflex cameras began in May 1959 with the launch of the Canon Flex, which was followed by models reflecting Canon’s reliable technologies and innovativeness. In 1971 the company introduced the F-1, its first professional model; in 1976 the AE-1, the world’s first SLR camera to feature a built-in CPU; and in 1986 the T90, the top-of-the-line model of the T series line-up.

In March 1987, Canon launched the EOS650, the world’s first AF (autofocus) SLR camera to realise electronic control for the entire system. The EOS series, which continues to this day, has contributed significantly to the popularisation and development of AF SLR cameras, fuelling dramatic growth among both professional users, with the introduction of the top-of-the-line EOS-1 in 1989, as well as entry-level users, with the release of the EOS 500 in 1993.

The year 2000 marked Canon’s full-fledged entry into the digital era with the launch of the EOS D30. Canon’s EOS Digital series, based on the key concept “speed, ease-of-use and high image quality,” has consistently led the digital evolution of SLR cameras with Canon-developed CMOS sensors and the high-performance DIGIC image processor, along with the company’s EF lens line-up, boasting outstanding optical performance and an extensive selection.

In 2008, Canon further strengthened its digital SLR line-up with the introduction of four new models, including the EOS 450D, which garnered the top share in Australia, Japan and other global markets, and the EOS 5D Mark II, the first SLR camera to incorporate full high-definition video recording.

With film-based SLR camera sales of more than 39 million units and digital SLR camera sales exceeding 14 million units, Canon is sincerely grateful to all of its users for their support and will continue pursuing the challenge of creating cameras that deliver superior imaging performance and reliability.

After having possession of my new baby the Canon EOS 5D Mark II for just over two weeks, I have finally been able to do some low light high ISO hand held photography around Sydney, and the results are absolutely stunning.

The 5D Mark II truly takes low light photography to the next level, with ultra low noise at higher ISO levels. The results speak for themselves, considering these shots were taken hand held (no tripod)

These photos plus others can be seen in Ben Hoffman's Flickr Photostream

Christmas came early for me yesterday, after hearing a rumour that Canon had just sent out another batch of 5D Mark II Kit's to dealers, with this in mind I gave my Camera shop (DigiDirect) a call, low and behold the answer was "Yes sir come in and pick up your 5D Mark II Premium lens kit".

Having a chat to the owner while my order was being arranged by the sales person, they apparently received only 4 5D Mark II kits this week and a similar number of bodys last week. I got the feeling Canon's short supply of the 5D Mark II had been quite stressful, with over 100 people on their waiting list for the 5D Mark II. I can just imagine a large majority of those eager 5D Mark II camera owners calling on a daily basis on the off chance more stock had arrived.

I was one of the lucky ones, but then again I did order and pay in full about a month ago.

Below are a few photos of my new 5D Mark II Premium lens kit:

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Premium Kit box taken with the 5D Mark II (No Flash)

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Camera Kit and box taken with a FujiFilm F100FD (With Flash)

There is more to come including video once I have the chance to get into the Sydney CDB some time tomorrow.