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 Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe. He 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.

Are you someone who is interested in making money from digital portrait photography without the added & expensive costs of running a studio?

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 A no-non sense behind the scenes look at how to make profit from Digital Portrait Photography working from home.

You will learn how to operate a successful & thriving business from home.

Whether you are a beginner, experienced, part or full-time photographer, this report will unlock the secrets to profitable portrait photography.

You will learn:

• how to start a home portrait studio business
• outdoor photography tips
• portraiture photography
• what camera, lens, computer, software you require
• lighting on-location with minimal of equipment
• how to use available ambient light
• off-camera flash techniques
• how to capture great portraits on-location
• learn work flow for shooting as well as post-processing
• online & offline marketing
  
• and much much more….

To get started, you need to just first make sure your camera has right autofocus set up for continuous shooting. On pro cameras or older DSLR’s, make sure your camera is in “C” mode, or “Continuous Servo AF Mode” to give it the full title. This is done by a rocker switch on the side of the camera near the lens release button;

With the current generation of cameras, however, it has become a little more complex to perform this task. Instead of the options seen above, this same rocker switch will have two options “AF” and “M”. In all cases, “M” stands for manual focus but the “AF” option by default puts your camera in “Auto Area AF Mode {AF-A)” where the camera selects “Continuous Servo AF Mode” automatically if it detects that the subject you are trying to focus on is moving. This is fine for normal casual candid shooting but it unfortunately also puts your camera in charge of choosing what part of the scene to focus on in the first place. For action photography, you need to be able to select your focus point manually but still be in a position to exploit the full power of the autofocus system. The best way to do this is by selecting “Dynamic Area AF Mode”.

This is achieved in one of three ways;

With some cameras you will have to go into the Custom Menu or the Set-up Menu and make the choice there. On Pro cameras, there is a rocker switch with three symbols – the middle of which is for “Dynamic Area AF Mode”. With the most recent cameras, a third method that involves pressing the “AF Mode” button (on the side of the camera) and rotating the Sub-command (front) dial needs to be employed.
To understand how to master the “back button” professional autofocus technique, we will start by looking at a sequence of shots made using the shutter release to initiate AF in the normal way.  Our camera is now in “Continuous AF” mode and “Dynamic Area AF”  has been selected from the “AF-area Mode” options.

In the example above, we can see that an AF point off to the right side of the viewfinder has been selected. Depending upon the camera model you are using, when the camera achieves focus the AF point may light-up red or turn black.  This is called “Lock on” and when shooting a moving subject, the camera will register both the subject distance and the direction it is traveling.  In Dynamic Area AF mode, the camera will use this info to do “Predictive Focus Tracking” which means it anticipates where the subject is going to be and the new focus point will be selected automatically. Confirmation that the subject is locked in focus will also be given by a small green dot lighting up within the viewfinder.

As we move through the shots, pressing and releasing the shutter one frame at a time, there comes a moment as we can see in the third frame where the boy has moved away from coverage by the chosen AF point. Pressing the shutter release at this point will cause the AF mechanism to attempt to re-focus on the subject behind the red focus point and….

The result is pretty catastrophic – the AF mechanism tries to focus on the part of the scene where the chosen AF point is. Our running boy is no longer in focus.

However, most people would not follow a subject in this way taking one shot at a time. Instead, it is more likely that you would shoot in a continuous burst using either CL or CH shooting mode,  with the shutter fully depressed throughout the sequence. In this mode,  the camera’s AF mechanism would have locked on the subject and followed the boy using “Focus Tracking” , calling into play other AF points that cover the boy as he moves.

The AF points indicated in yellow in the illustration above are some of the ones used by the camera to check on the subject’s distance and in turn to provide instruction to the lens as to the new focus point. Please note; these points do not actually illuminate when they become active.  Although autofocus is better when the camera is in continuous shooting mode, there is still potential for things to go wrong. For example, when shooting short bursts of three or four frames at a time and removing your finger from the shutter release button momentarily.  The danger is that in these instances, autofocus can be lost.  Restarting AF again by pressing the shutter release would, as in the single frame example above, give your camera a new instruction – and it would assume you want to focus on the AF point you originally selected. 

To ensure that the subject remains in focus all through the sequence – even through the times when you are not taking pictures but just following the subject through the viewfinder – you need to keep autofocus working. You need it to perform focus tracking and continuously sending new instructions to the lens to keep up. To do this, you must separate the functions of releasing the shutter and initiating AF.  This is the primary reason for using the back button. Initiating AF by pressing and holding down the Back Button allows you to shoot either in Single frame or Continuous shooting modes without the risk of sudden re-focussing taking place. The camera is receiving ongoing instructions from you to maintain focus as long as you keep your finger on the AF-ON button. In this way, the full technical power of the AF mechanism is brought into play. Here’s how to make the back button work effectively on those models that have a dedicated AF-ON button. First, a Custom Menu option is selected;

The camera’s default setting will be indicated in yellow.  Select “AF-ON only” and press “OK” and you will have  separated the two functions. Now part depressing the shutter release will no longer activate AF.  Only by pressing the back button (AF-ON) will the subject be brought into sharp focus and the AF mechanism start to track your subject through the sequence. It will continue doing this as long as you keep pressing the button and the subject remains within the viewfinder AF frame area.

For those cameras like the Nikon D80/90, D3000, D5000 and D7000 that do not have a dedicated “AF-ON” button, it is still possible to separate the two functions and use one of the other back buttons to initiate AF.

Where there is only one, it is most likely to be the “AE-L/AF-L “ button which locks Auto Exposure (AE-L) and Auto Focus (AF-L). In your camera’s Custom Menu you will have an option under the section “f: Controls”  (in some camera’s it is in the ‘Setup Menu: Buttons’ ). Here you will find the option to “Assign AE-L/AF-L Button” to “AF-ON”.  Selecting this option will provide the same functionality as the purpose-designed AF-ON button found on professional camera models.

Putting this technique into practice can be a little difficult at first but if you persevere, it will pay dividends and improve your sports, wildlife or any kind of action photography. However, using the back button for static shots like portraits or landscapes can seem unnecessary, if not a little awkward, as it requires you to use two digits instead of one and think AF first and release second. But many pro shooters use it for all their photography because taking your finger off the back button will now lock the focus point. Normally, this requires you to press the AE-L /AF-L button. This is handy for preventing unwanted re-focussing and is especially useful when using telephoto lenses without a tripod.

The culmination of 40 years’ experience in developing professional cameras, the EOS-1D X represents a new era for the EOS system and supersedes both the EOS-1D Mark IV and the EOS-1Ds Mark III . Combining a new 18.1MP full-frame sensor, a redesigned autofocus (AF) system and powerful new metering technology with new dual “ DIGIC 5+ ” processors, this camera has been designed to offer unparalleled usability and image quality – ensuring any scene is captured with greater accuracy and speed than ever before.

“The EOS-1D X is the ultimate camera for all types of photographer” said Kieran Magee, Professional Marketing Director, Canon Europe. “Professionals often shoot in fast-paced, high pressure situations, and the EOS-1D X provides the features and performance they need. We’ve carefully listened to the needs of professionals and created a versatile, powerful camera that will meet the requirements of more photographers than ever before.”

Setting new standards
The EOS-1D X offers a comprehensively-upgraded specification that’s packed with new technologies. A newly-developed full-frame 18.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor offers exceptional flexibility, allowing photographers to shoot a wider range of scenes and subjects in high resolution. Redesigned architecture offers an incredible ISO range of 100-51200, expandable up to 204800, while dual “DIGIC 5+” processors offer a 2-stop improvement in noise performance – making it easier to capture outstanding quality, low noise images, even in extreme low-light conditions.

The new 61-point wide-area autofocus system offers even greater sensitivity, delivering increased precision and speed. With 41 cross-type points, including five dual cross-type points, the camera’s AF system offers unsurpassed accuracy across the frame, while new AF pre-sets are specifically designed for shooting common challenging subjects – providing exceptional reliability in notoriously difficult shooting situations.

The EOS-1D X also features a newly-designed RGB metering system, providing incredible levels of accuracy. A 100,000 pixel RGB metering sensor is linked to the AF system and powered by its own dedicated DIGIC 4 processor, detecting faces and colour to ensure correct exposure levels and improved AF tracking, even when shooting the most challenging of scenes.

Extreme power
Powered by next-generation processing technology, the EOS-1D X is the first-ever camera to feature dual “DIGIC 5+” processors. Offering performance up to three times faster than standard DIGIC 5, each processor is designed to manage huge levels of image data while simultaneously reducing image noise. In combination with the sensor’s 16-channel read-out, the dual processors enable full-resolution continuous shooting up to 12fps with 14-bit A/D conversion and full camera operation – the fastest of any DSLR currently available [1] . A super high-speed mode extends the shooting speed to 14fps [2] , while a new shutter and mirror mechanism reduces shutter lag and mirror bounce, delivering consistently high performance when shooting at high speed.

The film-maker’s DSLR
The EOS-1D X is ideal for all professionals who want to exploit the EOS system’s extensive selection of lenses and accessories – whether shooting stills or HD movies. Users can record Full HD (1920x1080p) movies from the full-frame sensor with a full range of manual settings to control exposure, focus and frame rate [3] , while sound levels can also be displayed and adjusted on the LCD screen, ensuring complete control over every aspect of a shoot.

Thanks to the power provided by the dual “DIGIC 5+” processors moiré artefacts are also reduced, while EOS Movie now offers longer recording options, automatically creating a new file once the 4GB file limit has been reached. A new intra frame video codec also maintains the highest possible video quality, limiting compression of image data so users retain increased levels of information for post-production editing.

Designed for professionals
The EOS-1D X offers a carefully revised version of the classic EOS-1 series design, with larger, more tactile buttons that make it easier for users to control settings – even in extreme conditions where gloves are required. Two multi-controllers and a touch-sensitive control wheel, for use in movie mode, make it easier to change settings, while a range of customisable function buttons allow users to set-up the camera to suit their individual needs by allowing shortcuts to the features and pre-sets they use most.

A 100% viewfinder makes framing each scene easy, while intelligent viewfinder functionality instantly adds a grid display when required. A large, 8.11cm (3.2”) Clear View II LCD screen offers a 1040k-dot resolution, and the anti-reflective structure prevents light reflections or glare when viewing images in bright conditions. A hardened glass cover also provides resistance to knocks and scratches commonly picked up while shooting on the move.

The menu system also features a comprehensively redesigned user interface, incorporating Help functions to make camera operation faster, clearer and easier. Additionally, a new dedicated AF tab allows photographers to access and customise AF pre-sets for common shooting situations or subjects, allowing users to concentrate on capturing the moment without the need to constantly adjust camera settings.

Built to last
The EOS-1D X offers a highly durable body constructed from high-grade magnesium alloy that provides protection against both the elements and the knocks of everyday use. The latest implementation of Canon’s EOS Integrated Cleaning System also uses technology adopted from Canon lenses, using wave-based vibrations similar to that of Ultrasonic Motors to shake dust and dirt from the sensor even more effectively.

An enhanced shutter mechanism also provides extended durability, providing 400K shutter cycles so photographers can rely on their camera to meet the challenge of repeated, demanding shoots. The EOS-1D X also features Canon’s protective sealing around the controls and cover seams, making the camera dust and water-resistant when combined with Canon’s range of weather-resistant EF lenses – perfect for shooting in a range of weather conditions.

Enhanced connectivity also ensures photographers can send images to picture desks or studios quickly and securely. An integrated gigabit ethernet port provides a fast, reliable way to transfer images from on-location events or in a studio, without the need for an adaptor.

The EOS System – unrestricted creativity
As part of the award-winning EOS System, the EOS-1D X is compatible with the world’s largest selection of lenses, Speedlite EX flash units and an extensive range of accessories. The ideal upgrade for existing EOS-1D Mark IV and EOS-1Ds Mark III users, it’s also compatible with numerous EOS accessories, allowing the new body to seamlessly join any existing EOS-1 series kitbag.

In addition, launching alongside the EOS-1D X is the new WFT-E6 – a new, compact WiFi transmitter designed for transferring images when a wired connection isn’t available. Supporting the 802.11n WiFi standard and offering Bluetooth support for connectivity to external GPS devices, the WFT-E6 offers secure transfer of images and video to an FTP server, or the ability to display content on a compatible screen over a DLNA [4]  connection.

The EOS-1D X will also be compatible with a new GPS receiver – the GP-E1. Enabling users to add location information to EXIF data and geographically track the progress of travelling shoot, the GP-E1 is particularly useful for wildlife or location-based photographers who may need to record the location of a scene for future reference.

Canon EOS-1D X – key features

• 18.1 MP full frame CMOS sensor

• Up to 12fps and 14fps shooting

• 100-51200 ISO, up to H:204800

• 61 point AF system

• 100,000 pixel RGB AE metering with DIGIC 4

• Full HD 1080p EOS movie

• Dual “DIGIC 5+” processors

• Clear View II 8.11 cm (3.2”) 1040k LCD

• Ethernet port

Click here for price of the Canon EOS-1D X

To kick off the run-up to Christmas, SF Photo School have teamed up with leading online photo-gift retailer Photobox. . These early bird discounts are exclusive to us and will expire soon, so click on the links below to visit Photobox’s website.

30% off  when you spend £30

Click here to go to website
Offer code: SECRET30

20% off  when you spend £20

Click here to go to website
Offer code: SECRET20

10% off when you spend £10

Click here to go to website
Offer code: SECRET10

30% off all Personalised Photo Calendars

Click here to go to website
Offer code: CAL30

Offer expires 11:59pm Saturday 15th October 2011 and  excludes postage. Only one offer code can be used per order. Please note: You cannot use Print or Book Credits in conjunction with offer codes. Discount doesn’t apply when purchasing Gift Vouchers. Offer not applicable to orders from Pro Galleries or orders from private sellers with marked up pricing. All standard terms & conditions apply.

Hamburg, September 27, 2011—Nik Software today began shipping Color Efex Pro 4, the company’s latest version of its popular digital photographic filters for retouching and creative enhancements. The 55 total filters of Color Efex Pro 4 offer a new generation of technologies and features for creating stunning effects and introduce stackable filter combinations, visual presets, filter recipes, and new filters such as Detail Extractor,
Vintage Film Efex, and Image Borders. Color Efex Pro 4 also includes a new History Browser, improvements to imaging algorithms, greater performance, and enhanced usability.  
 

“Color Efex Pro has hands-down been my most-used plug-in and version 4 opens up a whole new world for photographers,” said Scott Kelby, President, National Assn. of Photoshop Professionals.

“The ability to stack filters on top of each other right inside the plug-in, and to save your own filter recipes, just blew me away. Hats off to Nik Software: If you can only have one plug-in, this has to be the one!”
 
Nik Software’s latest U Point technology provides Color Efex Pro 4 with easy-to-use tools for photographers to fine-tune and stylize their images with precise selective adjustments without complicated selections and layer masks. The filter effects can be added or subtracted from images with incredible precision, using a few clicks of the mouse. When enhancements are made, they are automatically blended throughout an image for natural results. Color Efex Pro 4 takes full advantage of the latest graphics processing units (GPUs) and multi-core processors for responsiveness and fast processing.  
 
KEY NEW FEATURES:
 
• NEW: Filter Combinations—Add multiple filters at once, adjust opacity, and make selective adjustments to get the desired look  
• NEW: Brand New Filters—Detail Extractor, Dark Contrast, Vintage Film Efex, Natural Image Borders, and much more  
• NEW: Visual Presets—Each filter contains single-click starting points making it possible to explore creative options quickly
• NEW: Style Recipes—Customize and share filter combinations with others, using recipes
• NEW: History Browser— Facilitates intuitive comparison of previous edits and different looks
• NEW: GPU Processing and Multi-Core Optimization—GPU Processing takes full
advantage of the processors found on advanced display adapters providing even faster performance
• NEW: Interface, Interaction, and Workflow—Benefit from interface and interaction improvements to filters, zoom controls, shortcut keys, and much more 

Pricing and Availability
Color Efex Pro 4 is available now for electronic and boxed delivery directly from Nik Software, through specialty camera retailers, and through online and national resellers.
 
Two versions of the software are available: The Color Efex Pro 4 Complete Edition contains 55 filters with a suggested retail price of €199,95, US$199.95 or equivalent in other currencies. The Color Efex Pro 4 Select Edition contains 26 filters with a suggested retail price of € 99,95, US$99.95 or equivalent in other currencies. Upgrades to the Complete Edition from any edition of versions 2.0 or 3.0 are € 99,95, US$99.9595 or equivalent in other currencies. Customers who purchased Color Efex Pro or a Complete Collection bundle on or after August 7, 2011 are eligible for a free upgrade. For further information on the free upgrade, customers may visit www.niksoftware.com/freeupgrade .
 
Color Efex Pro 4 is Windows and Mac compatible and installs as a 32-bit and 64-bit plug-in for Adobe® Photoshop® CS4 or later, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom® 2.6 or later, Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 or later, Apple® Aperture® 2.1.4 or later. For more information about Color Efex Pro
4, including video tutorials, feature lists, and special live online preview sessions, please visit: www.niksoftware.com/colorefexpro .
 
 
About Nik Software
Nik Software, Inc. develops award-winning desktop and mobile software solutions and technologies for the professional digital imaging and consumer photography markets. Established in 1995, Nik Software has become the recognized leader in digital photographic products and technologies, including its patented U Point® technology and its Snapseed™ mobile product line. In 2011, the company earned the prestigious International TIPA Award for Best Photo Software for its Complete Collection of professional photography products, which includes Color Efex Pro™, HDR Efex Pro™, Sharpener Pro™, Silver Efex Pro™, Viveza®, and Dfine®.  In 2011, the company also earned the EISA Award for European Photo Software of the Year 2011-2012 for
Silver Efex Pro 2. For more information, visit www.niksoftware.com .

“This is Nikon’s most significant announcement since we introduced our first digital camera 14 years ago” said Takami Tsuchida, President, Nikon Europe, “With the launch of Nikon 1, we’re unveiling two groundbreaking interchangeable lens cameras that are packed with revolutionary technology.”

Jordi Brinkman, Product Manager, Nikon Europe, said: “Our engineers have managed to house an incredibly powerful processor and sensor in a sleek, minimalist Nikon 1 body design: people will be able to take shots they didn’t believe were possible. These are not only the world’s fastest cameras – they have features that have never been seen before: shooting modes like Motion Snapshot and Smart Photo Selector are going to let people capture images in ways they could never have imagined, and the 1 NIKKOR lenses are unique in the way they’ve been designed with portability and movie making in mind.”

Nikon’s market-changing Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens (A-CIL) has been specially designed to help photographers perfectly capture a moment in time, by combining images and movies. With the development of Nikon’s cutting edge technology, you’ll never miss a thing.

* Nikon 1 J1 is the world’s smallest camera among competing interchangeable lens digital cameras equipped with image sensors larger than 1 inch. Nikon 1 V1 is the world’s smallest and lightest camera among competing interchangeable lens digital cameras with an integral EVF. The world’s shortest shooting time lag (as determined by Nikon performance tests). Measured when using the single-point AF mode and the shortest focal length of a standard zoom lens (1 NIKKOR 10-30mm). All details as of August 5, 2011.

Captivating new features

The Nikon 1 range has a processor that is many times faster than the most professional cameras and this unprecedented speed powers some never-before-seen functions. Motion Snapshot is a new concept in picture-taking. It captures fleeting moments and plays them back in a way that makes your picture appear that it is alive. It simultaneously records a slow motion movie and a still image, then instantly combines the two to deliver an evocative moving photo, capturing the story of a moment as never before. For the first time, you can record a snapshot of time, whether it is waves lapping at the shore, your best friend’s smile, or a child blowing out the candles on their birthday cake.

Another innovative feature powered by the cameras’ impressive speed is Smart Photo Selector which helps you to take the best possible full resolution picture. How many times have you tried to take an action shot, like your dog catching a ball or your child playing on the swing, only to miss the essential moment, because you took your shot a fraction too soon or too late? These intuitive cameras do the thinking for you. Press the shutter button once and the camera records 20 high resolution images at high speed and automatically selects the five best shots based on facial expressions, composition and focus. It then displays the best image on the high-resolution LCD screen. If you are not happy with the shot, the camera will suggest other images to choose from, meaning you’ll never take a bad picture again.

Two exciting new cameras

The Nikon 1 J1 is ideal for those who want a camera that effortlessly captures vivid personal and family memories. It is easy-to-use, has an in-built flash and is small and light enough to carry around – anywhere, anytime. The Nikon 1 J1 is available in five striking colours: matt black, high-gloss white, silver, high-gloss red and hot pink, with accessories to match.

The Nikon 1 V1 with its tough body construction is the perfect camera for technology lovers and trendsetters who want to take their photography to the next level. Its high resolution viewfinder helps you to frame shots in bright light and is It also has an expandable multi accessory port which lets you attach an external flash and other accessories. The Nikon 1 V1 is available in matt black or high-gloss white.

Quality without compromise

Nikon has created a camera system with revolutionary new features without compromising on size, usability or image and movie quality. These cameras have the fastest autofocus in their class, which means they are ready to capture the action as soon as you are.  Its high-speed continuous shot with 60 fps (frames per second)* lets you take a steady stream of photos without taking your finger off the shutter button – all while producing professional-quality still images with a sharp 10 megapixel resolution. And if you have ever struggled with low lighting, the camera’s CX-format CMOS sensor delivers still images with vivid colours.

Having a still or Motion Snapshot image won’t always be enough, so both Nikon 1 cameras give you Full HD movie capability, where you can film at 60 or 30 fps. You can take a high resolution still image** while continuing to take a movie. You can even capture the action in extreme slow motion and play back a two or three second clip over a couple of minutes for some really creative filming – be it a water droplet hitting a surface or your friend jumping in the air.

* Max. 10fps in subject tracking AF mode and max. 60fps in full high-definition, fixed-focus mode. Max. 10fps in subject tracking AF mode (when the aperture value is f/5.6 or smaller with the shutter speed 1/60 or faster) and max. 60fps in full high-definition, fixed-focus mode. Nikon 1 J1: Around 13 frames at shooting speed of 10fps; around 12 frames if shooting speed is set at 30fps and 60fps. Nikon 1 V1: Around 34 frames at shooting speed of 10fps; around 30 frames if shooting speed is set at 30fps and 60fps. As determined by Nikon performance tests.
** Full resolution images in movie mode, (aspect ratio 16:9) 3,840 x 2,160 (1,080/60i).

Beautiful simple design

You will be as delighted with how Nikon 1 looks as you will be with how it performs. Both cameras share a simple design, with clean lines and minimal buttons to enhance their sleek form. They also boast a high-quality, strong, yet light-weight aluminium body, for a durable and premium feel. The Nikon 1 V1 even has magnesium alloy covers.

New interchangeable lenses

When crafting Nikon 1, Nikon’s engineers didn’t just focus on the new. In fact, when it came to the new 1-mount, they drew on more than 50 years of expertise: the last time Nikon created a totally new lens mount was the F-mount in 1959. The 1-mount is what allows you to use the Nikon 1 system’s range of interchangeable 1 NIKKOR lenses. Engineered to ensure each lens communicates perfectly with the camera, it’s a key factor in the ability of Nikon 1 cameras to deliver still image and movie recording without compromise.

The new family of four interchangeable 1 NIKKOR lenses deliver outstanding precision, resolution and contrast and have been created in perfect proportion to the camera’s small body. They all boast a slim-line, light-weight design for superior portability and balance and are incredibly easy-to-use for stunning, effortless photography and movie recording in any situation.

The wide range of lenses has been designed exclusively for the 1-mount. This first generation line-up covers a range of focal lengths including the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm (standard 3x zoom lens), offering enjoyable shooting anywhere, the retractable 1 NIKKOR VR 30-110mm (telephoto zoom lens) to capture a wide variety of scenes, the ultra-thin 1 NIKKOR 10mm (fixed-focal length lens) for wide-angle shooting, helping you get everything in the shot, and the 1 NIKKOR 10-100mm PD-ZOOM (power-drive zoom with adjustable speed) which is ideal for those who enjoy shooting movies. And all of this is just the beginning. Nikon know that the best lenses lead to the best images and future 1 NIKKOR lenses are already in development.

Expand your system – Stay compact: Nikon 1 system accessories

The Nikon 1 range of optional system accessories help you get the most out of your shooting without weighing down your bag:

The tiny SB-N5 Speedlight flash is a convenient way to control the direction and quality of light, or get creative with shots by ‘bouncing’ the flash off the ceiling or walls. Compatible with the Nikon 1 V1, it can be rotated vertically or horizontally, and a capture illuminator (LED) on the front of the unit provides extra light when using Motion Snapshot or Smart Photo Selector in the dark.

The ultra-compact GP-N100 GPS unit is the easy way to tag images on the go. Compatible with the Nikon 1 V1, it attaches directly to the camera’s multi-accessory port and automatically records latitude, longitude, altitude and time as ‘geotags’ in the image data (EXIF).

The F-mount adapter lets anyone use any NIKKOR D-SLR lens with a Nikon 1 camera. Compatible with both the Nikon 1 V1 and the Nikon 1 J1, it offers limitless possibilities to match a lens to the shooting situation and all AF-S and AF-I NIKKOR lenses are compatible with the Nikon 1 autofocus system.

But the complete range of Nikon 1 accessories doesn’t stop there. A whole range of Nikon 1 branded camera and lens cases and straps, as well as lens hoods and camera grips are available to protect your equipment and contribute to more comfortable shooting. You can use Nikon’s external stereo microphone, the ME-1 , with the Nikon 1 V1. And both Nikon 1 cameras come with Nikon’s new Short Movie Creator software, which automatically creates short movies from still images, movie footage and music — as well as your Motion Snapshots.

In this webinar series Vincent & Clare will teach you how to create superb ‘fine art fantasy’ images with little or no Photoshop skills or knowledge! How to create art which you can sell to your clients for a premium fee and make you stand out from your competition. You will be creating incredible imagery once you see how easy it is to create fantastic images like these.

Regardless of where you are or what you do, you will learn to create magic which can be created absolutely anywhere! you simply have to see it….and believe it. You will learn to create the most sensual & exquisite images that can hang as pieces of art or sit as a book of memoirs.

Price

£60.00 + VAT

Instant Download after checkout

Webinar Content Includes:

• over 240 minutes of high class tuition
• how to create an idea for your ‘fantasy portrait’
• how to take your idea through the brain storming sessions to a vision
• how to use simple lighting techniques to light your subject
• how to pose your subjects
• what backgrounds to use
• how to connect with your subject
• simple Photoshop workflow techniques
• pricing your ‘fine art master pieces’
• what products can be created from such imagery
• how to market your services

You can run into some real problems if you can’t control or eliminate the harsh shadows created by the scorching sun! You may use fill-in flash or shoot in the shade, but my personal preference is to use off-camera flash or use a big reflector.

The most important factor here is the metering of the exposure as well. Photographing in bright conditions can fool the metering of some of the most advanced cameras. So I would say you set your camera to ‘M’ manual mode and start to control your exposure and decide how much ambient light you want to let go through your lens.

Use a Reflector

Using a simple reflector will help you take simple images like the one above. I’ve underexposed the ambient light a bit and used the sun as a hair light. Having a reflector in front of your subject throws the light back on to the face and creating the catch lights in the eyes.

Its your choice whether you wish to use a Gold, Silver or a White reflector. I prefer to use a Silver Reflector. Lastolite do a 1.8m x 1.2m Panelite Reflector which is great for on-location work. Ideal for full-length portraits. They are also available in six reversible colours (Sunfire/White, Silver/White, Sunfire/Silver, Gold/White. Silver/Gold and Sunlite/Soft Silver). This reflector collapses down to just one third of its original size. Sunfire adds a warm glow (4750k) to the subject.

The Lastolite 8:1 Tri-Flip Cover Kit includes 8 surfaces in 1 bag. The TriFlips are designed to increase the options available to the photographer by increasing the versatility of the TriGrip reflector. Each of the TriFlip Kits comes with a 75cm (30”) 2 Stop TriGrip Diffuser.

In The Shade

When photographing in the shade / under a tree, you may get a green cast from the tree / leaves on your subject. If that is the case, then you may consider turning the image into a black & white or a sepia toned image.

Off-Camera Flash

When photographing in such bright conditions, you’ll need a fair bit of flash output to overpower the sun. For the below images, I’ve used 2 x Nikon Speedlights to double up my flash output. For best results, underexpose the ambient light and use the flash as your main light for your subject. You can use the flash as fill-light as well, it is up to you as to what kind of image you are trying to create.

For portable & light weight lighting kit which is easy to use and set up, I use one made by Lastolite.

The Lastolite All in One Umbrella Kit is  available with the Hotshoe Tilthead Shoelock. The Tilthead Shoe Lock features an adjustable ‘screw locking’ shoe mount which offers an additional locking mechanism as well as accommodating variances in the dimensions of the hotshoe from one flashgun to another. The kit comes in two sizes featuring either a 80cm (34”) or 100cm (40”) Lastolite All in One umbrella. The kit includes the All in One umbrella, 4 section stand, the new Hotshoe Tilthead Shoelock and padded shoulder bag. The All in One umbrella can be used as a silver or white bounce, a silver and white bounce or shoot through.

You may purchase the above from Warehouse Express by clicking here .

Hamburg – June 7, 2011 – Leading photography software developer Nik Software today introduced Snapseed™, its new photo experience for iPad. Snapseed is an entirely new photo application designed specifically for iPad and leverages the company’s advanced photographic technologies to deliver a fast, fun, and high quality photo experience for everyone.

“Snapseed represents a new generation of photography applications that will extend far beyond mobile devices and deliver to everyone the power, performance, and simplicity that we have delivered to professionals for over a decade,” said Michael J. Slater, President and CEO of Nik Software. “Everyone at Nik Software is passionate about photography and we are all excited to begin to offer products and features that we love via Snapseed.”

Snapseed enables anyone to create amazing photos with a wide variety of innovative filters and tools. Snapseed includes filters like Grunge, Vintage and Drama that can make any photo look extraordinary. Snapseed for iPad introduces the company’s revolutionary U Point technology in touch devices, bringing precise selective adjustments to change lighting, color, and more by simply touching and swiping the screen. Swiping side-to-side enhances the Brightness, Contrast, or Saturation of only the object selected, blending the effect naturally throughout the image. Snapseed for iPad is the first application in a new generation of photography software that brings the power of the desktop to mobile devices. With Snapseed, users can enhance, edit, and share their photos via social networks, email and even print via Apple’s AirPrint™ Wi-Fi printing standard.

Key Features

• Grunge — Explore styles and textures without limits and give photos a totally unique look
• Selective Adjust — Using nothing more than a finger, make precise selections and enhancements in seconds with Nik Software’s revolutionary U Point technology
• Drama — Add custom effects to a photo which range from subtle enhancements of textures to wildly creative and artistic effects
• Vintage Films — Nine unique nostalgic films, plus controls like saturation, textures and vignettes make any photo look like a vintage color film photo from the 50’s, 60’s or 70’s
• Tune Image — Correct photos shot in difficult lighting situations, create depth and vibrancy with Ambience, or adjust White Balance, Saturation, Contrast and more with a few quick swipes
• Organic Frames — Add unique borders to photos by choosing styles and textures
• Black and White — Give photos a classic look with this darkroom-inspired filter. Select styles, grain, vignettes, and more for a perfectly nostalgic look
• Sharing — Show off photos via email, print them, or share on Facebook, Flickr, and more

To learn more about Snapseed visit www.niksoftware.com/snapseed .

Pricing and Availability
Snapseed for iPad is available in English language for €3.99, $4.99 or the equivalent in other currencies, exclusively on the Apple App Store.

About Nik Software
Nik Software develops award-winning desktop and mobile software solutions and technologies for the professional digital imaging and consumer photography markets.
Established in 1995, Nik Software has become the recognized leader in digital photographic products and technologies, including its patented U Point® technology. 
In 2011, the company earned the prestigious International TIPA award for Best Photo Software for its Complete Collection of professional photography products, which includes
Color Efex Pro, HDR Efex Pro, Sharpener Pro, Silver Efex Pro, Viveza, and Dfine.  For more information, visit www.niksoftware.com .