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.

ThinkTank have released a new range of Backpacks for photography in crowded urban spaces, the ThinkTank StreetWalker range, featuring the StreetWalker, StreetWalker Pro and the StreetWalker HardDrive.

The full press release is below:

THINK TANK PHOTO RELEASES STREETWALKER BACKPACKS FOR PHOTOGRAPHY IN CROWDED URBAN SPACES

SANTA ROSA, CALIF – Think Tank Photo has launched a new design in photo backpacks, the StreetWalker™ series.  With the three new backpacks’ slim vertical profile, photographers can navigate crowded places and public transportation while still being able to access professional photographic equipment. This solves a significant problem experienced by photographers shooting in urban and other crowded environments: getting the shot in spaces that allow little room for navigating.  Their unique unisex design makes them useful for both men and women photographers.

A common complaint of female photographers is that photo backpack shoulder harnesses are designed for average-sized men. The shoulder straps on the StreetWalker have been specifically engineered to fit a wider range of sizes for both genders.  Women in particular will appreciate the StreetWalker’s very narrow and vertical profile, especially when combined with the shoulder harness design.

The three new StreetWalker backpacks are:

•  StreetWalker—This slim, lightweight backpack will hold a Pro Size DSLR with 70-200 2.8 attached and hood in position.  It includes a monopod/tripod mounting system, a contoured harness and air channel for increased comfort, and lots of pockets and organizers for customization.

•  StreetWalker Pro—This backpack is designed for a Pro Size DSLR with up to a 400 2.8 attached, or a 70-200 2.8 attached and hood in position.  It also includes the monopod/tripod mounting system, the contoured harness and air channel, and lots of pockets and organizers.

• StreetWalker HardDrive—This backpack will hold most 15” laptops and a Pro Size DSLR with 70-200 2.8 attached and hood in position.  It also includes the monopod/tripod mounting system, the contoured harness and air channel, and lots of pockets and organizers.

The StreetWalker backpacks were designed by veteran camera bag designer Lily
Fisher.  “First and foremost these lightweight backpacks give photographers quick access to their gear while allowing them to maneuver easily through crowds,” said Fisher.  “Additional benefits are the slim profile and adjustable sternum straps.  These backpacks also offer a unique benefit to women photographers, which is that the shoulder harness has been designed to fit our unique body types.”

Specifications
StreetWalker
Internal Dimensions:  8.5” W x 16” H x 5.5” D (22 x 41 x 14 cm)
External Dimensions:  9.5” W x 17” H x 6” D (24 x 43 x 15 cm)
Weight:  2 lbs – 2.8 lbs (0.9kg – 1.3 kg) (Varies based on accessories used)
Price:  $139.00

StreetWalker Pro
Internal Dimensions: 9.5” W x 16.5” H x 7” D (24 x 42 18 cm)
External Dimensions: 10” W x 17.5” H x 7.5” D (25 x 45 x 19 cm)
Weight:  2.6 lbs - 3.4 lbs (1.2kg – 1.5kg) (Varies based on accessories used)
Price:  $159.00

StreetWalker HardDrive
Internal Dimensions: 11” W x 17” H x 6-7” D (28 x 43 x 15-18 cm)
External Dimensions: 11.5” W x 18” H x 8.5” D (29 x 46 x 22 cm)
Weight:  3.6 lbs – 4.4 lbs (1.6kg – 2kg) (Varies based on accessories used)
Price:  $179.00

Nikon D3x Officially Announced: After the last week of leaks Nikon have now officially announced the Nikon D3x, and as expected it sports a 24.5 megapixel full frame sensor, the full press release from Nikon US can be seen below:

NIKON UNVEILS A DIGITAL MASTERPIECE: THE D3X DIGITAL SLR

With Extreme 24.5-Megapixel Resolution, Processed Image Files Exceeding 138 MB, Five Frame-per-Second Burst Speed and Nikon Core Technologies, the D3X Ushers in a New Level of Image Quality

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Nov. 30, 2008) – Nikon Inc. today announced the D3X, an FX-format digital SLR featuring extreme 24.5-megapixel resolution and superb low-noise capabilities, which provides professional photographers with commercial-quality image performance in a familiar and extraordinarily versatile D-SLR form factor. In conjunction with the groundbreaking Nikon FX-format D3, the D3X tops off a collection of flagship level, rugged, professional caliber digital single lens reflex cameras engineered to excel in all types of professional photographic disciplines from photojournalism and sideline sports, to commercial in-studio applications.

The foundation of the enhanced performance of the D3X is its FX-format, 24.5-megapixel (6048 x 4032) CMOS sensor providing commercial, high fashion, fine art and landscape photographers with the extreme resolution, dynamic range, color depth, detail and sharpness that clients demand. Whether creating catalogs, magazine covers, billboards or gallery prints, the large 5.49-micron pixel size and high signal to noise ratio produces vibrant images with breathtaking image fidelity while reducing lost highlights and shadows, and ensuring smoother tone reproduction with minimized noise. With full resolution shooting speeds of up to five frames-per-second (fps), and 14-bit files, that when processed are approximately 138 MB, the D3X offers today's photographic artists an extreme level of performance and versatility ready for demanding assignments in the studio or on location.

“In 2007, the 12.1-megapixel FX-format D3 delivered groundbreaking digital SLR image quality, coupled with incomparable high ISO, low noise performance and high-speed handling. In doing so, the D3 broke photographic barriers, enabling photographers to work in ways never before possible,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “Now, the new 24.5-megapixel FX-format D3X D-SLR provides the extreme resolution and high dynamic range capabilities needed to meet the extraordinary needs of photographic disciplines such as high fashion, commercial advertising and fine art. The D3X delivers this remarkable capability while fitting seamlessly within the Nikon system, taking full advantage of Nikon’s world-renowned collection of NIKKOR lenses and Speedlights.”

Image Quality Takes Center Stage
To re-emphasize the importance of image quality above all else, the D3X delivers an incredible level of digital SLR performance to provide photographers with extremely high resolution, exceptional dynamic range, phenomenal total gradation and outstanding color reproduction. Image files can be recorded as TIFF, JPEG or NEF (RAW) formats in either 12- or 14-bit compressed or uncompressed formats, and recorded to UDMA compatible CompactFlash™ cards for optimum speed. Photographers can save image files directly to the dual card slots as overflow, backup, or as separate file formats to different cards. Building on the D3X's flexibility, users have the creative option to shoot in the 5:4 crop mode with 20.4-megapixel resolution, the ideal format for creating 8 x 10-inch portraits. While using DX-format lenses, faster continuous shooting of up to seven frames per second can be achieved at a resolution of 10.5 megapixels.

The exceptionally low noise of the D3X is essential to any professional commercial application, and it provides photographers with an ISO range of 100 to 1600, expandable to 50 (Lo-1) and 6400 (Hi-2). The ultra smooth tones and lack of grain at ISO 1600 as well as at low sensitivity settings result in smooth, natural skin tones and exacting detail that, before the D3X, required larger and far costlier studio-bound camera systems.

Advanced Technologies, Meticulously Executed
In a commercial setting or on location, imaging professionals need high performance in both speed and processing. The Nikon D3X can shoot at up to five fps at full resolution or up to seven fps in DX crop mode, allowing photographers to catch the split-second difference in a model’s expression or capture all of the action in a sequence. Just like the D3, the D3X achieves a start-up time of a mere 0.12 seconds and a shutter release time lag of 0.04 seconds.

The D3X’s speed, as well as high levels of performance, leverages Nikon core technologies including a newly enhanced EXPEED™ Image Processing System, specially designed for the D3X to provide superior image quality, faster processing speeds and lower power consumption. This advanced system is able to achieve extremely precise color reproduction for a broad spectrum of hues, in addition to vivid saturation and smooth gradation. What’s more, Nikon’s advanced noise processing function is engineered to minimize noise at all sensitivities and operate seamlessly without interfering with other image color parameters.

The D3X also features Nikon’s exclusive Scene Recognition System, which continuously analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor, to further refine auto exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. This results in flattering portraits and awe-inspiring landscapes that portray accurate color and fine details. Nikon's exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II helps ensure accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Instantly evaluating each scene before capture, input data from the system's sensor is automatically referenced against an internal database of more than 30,000 images derived from actual photographs to calculate correct exposure values. Active D-Lighting, used in combination with 3D Matrix Metering II, helps to determines proper exposure, and creates realistic contrast while compensating for lost shadows and highlights. Prior to shooting, users can choose from Extra High, High, Normal, Low or Off settings, as well as an Auto mode.

Additionally, the D3X features Nikon’s exclusive Multi-CAM 3500FX focus module, with 51 AF points, 15 cross type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors that easily track and lock onto moving subjects, delivering the same fast and accurate AF performance that helped make the D3 immediately successful. Users can select any of the AF points, making it easy to consistently attain accurate focus right on a subject’s eyes, frame after frame. Additionally, three AF-area modes – Single point, Dynamic-area AF and Auto-area AF – are available to maximize the use of the 51 focus points by selecting the most suitable one to match subject conditions. AF is also available in one of two Live View modes optimized for the studio, including a phase detection handheld mode and a tripod mode. This feature allows the user to zoom in up to 27x on the LCD screen to ensure critical focus. While in Live View, the graphic indication of a virtual horizon is also available, making it easier than ever to confirm camera orientation.

To further ensure each photographer's ability to balance their personal style, Nikon’s Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. Photographers have creative control over these image parameters with the use of up to nine available customizable presets.

Synchronizing Both Form and Function
Engineered for real-world functionality, the D3X retains a rugged shell with moisture, dust and shock resistance that has become a hallmark of flagship Nikon D-SLRs, while preserving the usability and ergonomics that allow the camera to remain an extension of the photographer’s vision. Attention to detail goes so far as to include a self-diagnostic shutter system that is tested to exceed 300,000 cycles for maximum durability and longevity. The camera’s body also maintains the resilient magnesium alloy construction and form factor of the D3, promoting consistent Nikon system synergy.

A bright and accurate viewfinder offers 100 percent coverage with 0.7x magnification. The body also houses Nikon’s acclaimed 3.0-inch super density LCD screen, now relied upon by so many photographers. The high-resolution 920,000-dot screen is viewable at wide angles up to 170 degrees, and will allow photographers to quickly zoom in to confirm critical focus. Users can also output the video signal to an external display via HDMI to allow client viewing. Thanks to incredibly efficient internal circuitry, the D3X can capture up to 4400* shots per single charge of the camera’s Lithium ion battery.

System Strength Withstands the Test of Time
The D3X is fully compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS) to give photographers a mobile lighting solution that is easy to manage. To further enhance mobility, the D3X is compatible with Nikon’s GP-1 GPS receiver to gather information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and date of shooting. Photographers can easily shoot tethered via USB, or use the WT-4a wireless transmitter to send images wirelessly when speed and mobility are essential. D3X users will also enjoy the system strength of more than 50 genuine NIKKOR lenses that provide outstanding sharpness and high resolution across a broad range of focal lengths.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D3X will be available at Nikon Authorized Professional Dealers starting December 2008, and will be available for an estimated selling price of $7999.95.**

Nikon D3x specifications