News and Reviews

Sony announces the NEX F3

The pocket-sized NEX-F3 features the same space-saving mirrorless design as other cameras in the α E-mount family. Far bigger than the sensors found in point-and-shoot compacts, the 16.1 effective megapixel Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor captures more light for flawless, low-noise stills and crisply detailed Full HD video (50i/25p). Just like traditional DSLR cameras, it’s easy to create beautiful defocus effects with your subject focused sharply against a smoothly blurred background. Read on...

Sony announces the Alpha 37 SLT

Explore the creative world of high-quality imaging and interchangeable lenses with the new SLT-A37 camera with Translucent Mirror Technology from Sony. Light and easy to use, the temptingly-priced α37 broadens artistic options for anyone who’s stepping up from their point-and-shoot compact camera.

Unique to Sony, Translucent Mirror Technology delivers a potent combination of speedy shooting, non-stop phase detection autofocus and continuous live image preview, even when you’re shooting Full HD video (50i/25p). The precision 3-cross 15-point AF system, with tracking autofocus, keeps faces and fast-moving subjects in sharp focus. From action-packed sports to spontaneous family portraits, you’ll capture all the drama and beauty of that special moment. Read on...

Olympus introduces the Tough TG-1

Even by the extremely high standards of Olympus’ category-defining TOUGH range of cameras, the new TG-1 TOUGH flagship takes remarkable pictures – and boasts some remarkable features. Its superb extra-wide f2.0 aperture high-speed lens can capture excellent quality images even in the permanent twilight found 12 metres underwater, which is exactly where this camera is engineered to excel. The TG-1 is waterproof*, shockproof*, freezeproof* and crushproof*. For all-action risk-takers or reef-loving divers, its peace of mind sealed in a stylish all-metal body. Full of high-tech innovations, the TG-1 features new Olympus iHS technology (Intelligence, High Sensitivity and High Speed), GPS and e.compass, plus a colour-rich, high-contrast, anti-reflective 3-inch OLED display. A treat for the serious photographer, new waterproof fisheye and tele converter lenses can be used via an optional adapter. Read on...

Nikon Introduces the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G Lens

Nikon today announces a new fast aperture wide-angle prime lens — the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G.

A welcome addition to Nikon’s range of FX-format prime lenses, the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G boasts a new optical design that makes it a perfect match for today’s high-resolution D-SLRs. Its large (f/1.8) aperture delivers sharper shots in low light and enables wonderfully smooth bokeh. The new optical construction results in beautifully rendered images.Read on...

Nikon announces the D3200 DSLR

Nikon introduces the D3200, a new easy-to-use entry-level D-SLR, boasting latest-generation Guide Mode with full HD video to deliver beautiful, high-quality pictures and cinematic quality movies.

Simon Iddon, Product Manager for Enthusiast Products at Nikon UK says: “The D3200 follows the success of Europe’s best selling D-SLR camera, the D3100¹. Newcomers to D-SLR photography will benefit from the camera’s intuitive features, such as the Guide Mode that takes you step by step through the photography process to capture high quality images to be proud of. He adds: “This high powered camera offers superior image quality, with an incredibly high megapixel count, as well as Full HD video for creative photographers”.Read on...

Olympus updates firmware for groundbreaking OM-D camera

Olympus has released a firmware update for its revolutionary E-M5 camera launched in February. The update enhances the E-M5’s world-first 5-axis image stabilisation (IS) system in combination with three specific Four Thirds lenses: the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 8mm 1:3.5 fisheye lens, the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 18-180mm 1:3.5-6.3 ultra zoom lens and the LEICA D VARIO-ELMAR 14-150mm 1:3.5-5.6 wide-angle zoom lens. The update is available online now. Read on...

Canon wins six honours at the 2012 TIPA Awards

Canon today announces the company has been awarded six separate honours by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) – Europe’s leading photo imaging and press association. Designed to recognise the best products launched in the preceding year, the TIPA Awards are considered the most coveted imaging honours worldwide. The 2012 awards again acknowledge the quality present across Canon’s wide portfolio, including the revolutionary new Cinema EOS range. Read on...

Canon introduces the EOS 1D C DSLR

Canon today announces the introduction of the new EOS-1D C, a digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera targeting the motion picture, television and high-resolution production industries. Delivering outstanding video quality, advanced low light performance and film-like dynamic range, the compact and lightweight EOS-1D C supports in-camera 4K (4,096 x 2,160) video recording with 4:2:2 colour sampling, offering greater creative freedom for video professionals.

The first SLR camera of its kind, the EOS-1D C offers a unique and highly portable package optimised for high-quality video recording. Advanced creative flexibility is provided with support for a range of resolutions and variable frame rates. 4K video is recorded using 8-bit Motion JPEG compression at 24p, and Full HD (1920 x 1080) video capture is available at frame rates up to 1080/60p. The camera supports internal recording to CF cards at all resolutions up to and including 4K, offering enhanced mobility. Video can also be output to external recorders¹ via an integrated HDMI terminal using an uncompressed YCbCr 4:2:2 signal. Read on...

Canon announces development of the EOS C500 4K camera

Canon today announces the development of a new digital cinema camera capable of recording 4K-resolution (4,096 x 2,160 pixels) video. Targeting both the motion picture and high resolution digital production industries, the EOS C500 will offer 4K RAW output and will be available with Canon’s EF mount and the industry-standard PL mount.

In November 2011 Canon announced the EOS C300 – the first camera in the Cinema EOS System, marking the company’s entry into the motion-picture and digital production market. Highly acclaimed by video professionals since launch, the EOS C300 offers exceptional video quality performance, outstanding mobility, durability and expandability, thanks to its modular design and its compatibility with Canon’s range of EF and EF Cinema Lenses. The EOS C500/EOS C500 PL will be based on the same advanced platform, adding support for 4K RAW video capture, and 4:4:4 sampling during 2K capture. Read on...

Canon announces development of EF Cinema 4K lenses

Canon today announces the development of four new digital cinematography zoom lenses, as the company expands its EF Cinema Lens range to provide greater creative options for video professionals. Joining the seven high-end lenses announced in 2011, the new models support 4K (4,096 x 2,160) resolutions and will be smaller, lighter and more compact – offering outstanding mobility and quality. Available with both EF and PL mounts, the lenses will also be available at competitive prices, offering premium performance to a wider range of users. Read on...

Canon at NAB 2012

Canon announced today that the company is developing a new 30-inch 4K resolution industrial video display, a prototype of which will be exhibited from April 16 to 19 at NAB Show 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

With the rapid adoption of digital cinema, there has been a growing need among Hollywood professionals and others leading the vanguard of motion picture and video production for video displays capable of the faithful reproduction of high-image-quality, high-definition 4K video.  Read on...

Review: Apple iPhone 4S Camera

The iPhone 4s is one of the most talked about smartphones on the market currently and its camera has undergone improvement compared to the previous models. Compared with any other form of camera, the smartphone camera is likely to be the camera carried at all time. It is therefore worth having a camera that can produce usable results and a variety of lighting conditions so photo opportunities are not missed. The cameras in smartphones are continually improving with each generation and so expectations increase. Does the iPhone 4S have what it takes to not regret leaving the compact camera in the draw? Read on...

Panasonic announces the Lumix GF5

Panasonic today announced a new digital interchangeable lens system camera, the LUMIX DMC-GF5, which joins Panasonic’s award-winning LUMIX G Series of digital cameras, which are acclaimed for their high image quality with small and compact body and lenses.  The LUMIX GF5 features a newly developed 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor and redesigned Venus Engine, helping to ensure true-to-life images through exceptional resolution, image rendering and color reproduction.  Even in low-light situations and at a maximum 12800 high ISO sensitivity, the LUMIX GF5 produces stunning photos and videos.  The noise reduction system includes a combination 3DNR (3D Noise Reduction) and MNR (Multi-process Noise Reduction) allowing for both bright areas and dark areas to be faithfully reproduced with minimal noise in high sensitivity image recording. Read on...

Canon announces the EOS 60Da for Astrophotographer

Canon today expands the EOS series with the launch of the EOS 60Da – a high resolution Digital SLR (DSLR) designed for astrophotography. Based on the specifications of the EOS 60D and succeeding the EOS 20Da, the EOS 60Da is designed to capture rich red colours produced by emission nebulae, with a modified low pass filter that makes it more sensitive to hydrogen-alpha (Hα) wavelengths of light.

The EOS 60Da is ideal for shooting astronomical phenomena such as diffuse nebulae – a favourite among astrophotographers due to the distinct red colour caused by the ionisation of hydrogen. In a standard DSLR, an infrared (IR) filter limits the amount of Hα light that passes through to the camera sensor, reducing the transmission of red signals to prevent unwanted colour artefacts in the final image. Read on...

Sony a77 & a65 Firmware Updates Available

A new firmware update further boosts operability of the α77 and α65 Translucent Mirror cameras from Sony.

Available for free download from 29 March 2012, firmware version 1.05 adds several enhancements to both cameras. Alongside heightened responsiveness, it improves operability of both cameras with a wider choice of A-mount optics by Carl Zeiss and Sony. Read on...

The new look realworldimages.co.uk

Welcome to the new look RWI photography website. The website is still undergoing changes and updates but the new presentation should make navigation easier than the previous design.

Apple introduces the new iPad

Apple today announced the new iPad, the third generation of its category defining mobile device, will arrive at Apple’s retail stores and the Apple Online Store (www.apple.com/uk) on Friday, March 16 at 8:00 a.m. local time in the UK, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Switzerland and the US; along with Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

The new iPad features a stunning new Retina display, Apple’s new A5X chip with quad-core graphics and a 5 megapixel iSight camera with advanced optics for capturing amazing photos and 1080p HD video and still delivers the same all-day 10 hour battery life* while remaining amazingly thin and light. iPad Wi-Fi + 4G supports ultrafast 4G LTE networks in the US and Canada, and fast 3G networks around the world including those based on HSPA+ and DC-HSDPA.** Additionally, iPad 2 is available at a more affordable price starting at just £329 inc VAT. Read on...

Sony replaces the a55 with the a57 SLT camera

Limitless creative options are made even more accessible with a brand-new addition to the range of cameras by Sony employing Translucent Mirror Technology. This innovative design directs incoming light to the CMOS image sensor and the AF sensor at the same time, allowing full-time continuous AF during both still and video shooting. Framing, focusing and real-time preview can be achieved on the high-resolution Tru-Finder™ that offers a wide viewing angle and 100% field of view. This allows photographers to capture exactly what they see on the screen.

A natural successor to the acclaimed α55, the α57 is priced to appeal strongly to a wide audience of DSLR users. It shares many of the premium features – plus sophisticated styling and ergonomics – found on the enthusiast-focused α65. For the first time, entry-level photographers can shoot stills and Full HD video with razor-sharp responses and creative flexibility you’d expect from a camera in the class above. Read on...

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4 Now Available

Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced the availability of Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4 software for Mac OS and Windows. Lightroom is the essential digital photography workflow solution helping amateur and professional photographers quickly import, manage, enhance and showcase their images. First released as a public beta in January 2012, the final version of Lightroom 4 is now available for £86.57 ex VAT for the full version and £49.24 ex VAT for the upgrade, providing an incredible value for photographers. Lightroom 4 introduces refined technology for superior shadow and highlight processing, ability to create photo books, additional local adjustment controls, and enhanced video support.Read on...

Canon introduces the EOS 5D mkIII

Canon today announces the latest addition to its world-famous EOS range with the launch of the new EOS 5D Mark III. The EOS 5D Mark III builds on the performance of the legendary EOS 5D Mark II, offering improved speed, greater resolution, enhanced processing power and extended creative options for both stills and Full HD movies – providing unparalleled artistic freedom for the most demanding photographers.

Incorporating feedback from photographers worldwide, the EOS 5D Mark III offers improved performance in virtually every area. A new 22.3 Megapixel (MP) full-frame sensor offers the ideal balance of resolution for stills and HD movies and up to 6 frames per second (fps) shooting, whilst a 61-point AF system and 63-zone metering provide greater speed, flexibility and accuracy. Powered by the latest DIGIC 5+ processing technology, the EOS 5D Mark III also features enhanced video functions, offering improved image quality alongside greater audio control – redefining creative possibilities for photographers and amateur videographers alike.Read on...

Sony shows the new CyberShot range

Making its debut in the Cyber-shot™ HX20, WX100 and W690, an Advanced Aspherical (AA) lens boosts zoom range while allowing a far smaller lens body. The precision optical design adds an extremely thin lens element, increasing maximum magnification without compromising image quality or optical performance. With the WX100, this results in an impressive 10x optical zoom range in a compact camera that’s just 17.5mm thin at its slimmest part.

By Pixel Super Resolution technology (except W690, H90) doubles optical zoom range without sacrificing image quality or resolution. You’ll enjoy detail-packed close-ups – with up to 60x Clear Image Zoom on the HX200V – without the artificial blockiness that mars conventional digital zoom.

Complementing the new cameras’ exceptional zoom performance, Optical SteadyShot now offers enhanced image stabilisation when zoomed-in, both for still and movies. A refined gyro is teamed with optimised processing, adding the right amount of shake compensation for each scene. You’ll enjoy clearer, blur-free stills and videos, even at long focal lengths where camera shake is greatest.Read on...

Nikon introduces the D800 DSLR

Nikon today announces a groundbreaking new 36.3 megapixel FX-format professional D-SLR, the Nikon D800.

Designed to answer the needs of tomorrow’s photography and video today, the masterful Nikon D800 is packed with new technology that delivers unprecedented levels of depth and detail in photography, and offers all the flexibility necessary to shoot broadcast quality video.

Firmly establishing a league of its own, the Nikon D800 offers imaging potential to rival medium format cameras, but with all of the agility of the D-SLR format — giving professionals who demand attention to detail the freedom to create monumental images.

In an industry first, this exciting launch includes a special edition of the D800 – the Nikon D800E. With a modified optical filter, the D800E offers a unique alternative for those seeking the ultimate in definition.Read on...

Fujifilm introduces the X-Pro1

FUJIFILM Corporation (President and CEO: Shigetaka Komori) are proud to announce the FUJIFILM X-Pro1, an all-new interchangeable lens camera system. The X-Pro1 features a 16 megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor™, a brand new X lens mount, Hybrid Multi Viewfinder and three prime lenses.

FUJIFILM have developed a new CMOS sensor called the X-Trans CMOS™. The X-Trans CMOS™ sensor is capable of delivering resolution that is parallel, if not superior, to a full frame sensor. Read on...

Panasonic introduces the Lumix GX1

Panasonic is pleased to announce a new addition of interchangeable lens system camera for LUMIX G Micro System to the new premium mirror-less line up – DMC-GX1 featuring high image quality and stunning performance in both response and function. 

LUMIX G Micro System realizes high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. Taking full advantage of the 16.0-megapixel Live MOS sensor and Venus Engine, images to be shot in low-lit situations at max. 12800 high ISO sensitivity setting is stunningly clear with highly sharp resolution.  Read on...

Canon introduces the 1D X DSLR

Canon today announces the arrival of the EOS-1D X – its next generation professional Digital SLR (DSLR). Offering an unparalleled combination of speed, resolution and image quality, the EOS-1D X is the ultimate camera for capturing stunning images and Full HD movies. Whether shooting in the studio, the sports field, or anywhere in between, this model is ideal for virtually any professional photographer. The new model launches as the flagship in Canon’s DSLR line up – marking the 10th generation of Canon’s professional system with the most advanced EOS model ever produced.

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.” Read on...

Canon launches the PowerShot S100

Canon today announces the launch of the new PowerShot S100 – a powerful, versatile and highly compact camera offering photographers extensive control and leading image quality. The most advanced PowerShot S-series model to date, the PowerShot S100 surpasses the high standards set by its acclaimed predecessor, featuring a new f/2.0 Canon lens and an enhanced HS System, which combines an elite high-sensitivity sensor with the very latest in Canon processing technology – DIGIC 5.

The PowerShot S100 uses Canon EOS sensor know-how and the latest DIGIC 5 processor to deliver exceptional images even in low light. With an f/2.0 lens, RAW and GPS this is an expert compact with impact. Read on...

Sony announces the a77 and a65 SLT cameras

Sony extends the appeal of its Translucent Mirror camera range with two new A-mount models appealing to advanced amateurs and serious photo enthusiasts. Latest refinements in Translucent Mirror Technology by Sony make the SLT-A77 (α77) and SLT-A65 (α65) the quickest, most responsive interchangeable lens cameras in their class. Revised ergonomics on both cameras include a comfortably contoured new grip design and tactile new button layout for ‘eyes off’ operation while viewing via the high-resolution XGA OLED Tru-Finder™. A long-awaited successor to the acclaimed α700 DSLR, the α77 adds further refinements in performance and ruggedized construction to handle gruelling photo assignments with ease. Read on...

Sony announces the NEX-VG20E

The new Handycam® NEX-VG20E camcorder from Sony broadens creative possibilities for shooting cinematic Full HD video and high-resolution still photos. Offering comprehensive manual controls, the NEX-VG20E lets videographers explore the artistic potential of the growing range of E-Mount lenses. With refined ergonomics, improved imaging quality and upgraded sound, it provides several enhancements over the acclaimed NEX-VG10E – the world’s first consumer HD camcorder with interchangeable lenses. With a resolution of 16.1 effective megapixels, the Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor assures outstanding video image quality, with extremely low noise in low light. It also captures pristine 16 megapixel still photos, with RAW format support for all the post-processing flexibility that’s familiar to DSLR users*. Read on...

Sony announces the NEX-5N

Drawing on the positive acceptance of the digital camera NEX-5, the new α NEX-5N from Sony has advanced further and offers the superb responsiveness, image quality, and creative possibilities of a DSLR camera with less to carry. Styled in tough, light magnesium alloy and just 23.3mm at the slimmest point, the NEX-5N evolves the sleek, minimalist design of the acclaimed NEX-5. It’s also a step forward from its predecessor in terms of still image and HD video quality, powerful creative features and easy operation. Read on...

Sony announces the NEX-7

Sony takes pro-quality imaging and creative options to new extremes with the easy to use α NEX-7. Styled in magnesium alloy for strength and premium looks, the NEX-7 weighs a travel-friendly approx. 291g (camera body only). The NEX-7 features a newly-developed Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor with 24.3 effective megapixel resolution that’s teamed with the latest revision of Sony’s BIONZ image processing engine. This unique combination of sensor and processor assures ultra-rapid shooting responses, plus flawless image quality with ultra-low noise when shooting still images or Full HD video. Extending from ISO 100-16000, the ultra-high sensitivity range makes it easy to capture clean, low-noise images in dimly lit interiors or at dusk. Read on...