HISTORY™ Asia’s First Original Reality Competition Series Returns

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Tokina 11-20-New
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HISTORY™ Asia’s First Original Reality Competition Series Returns
Photo Face-Off Opens Casting Calls for amateur photographers across Asia

22nd April 2015, Singapore – HISTORY™ Asia and Canon are embarking on a search for the next amateur photographer in the all-new season of Photo Face-Off – the first and biggest original reality competition series on the channel. After an immensely successful first season, Photo Face-Off is set to return later this year for its second season on HISTORY™ Asia. The series recorded excellent ratings within the region, winning the number one timeslot* in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

Photo Face-Off pits amateur photographers from around Asia against renowned professional photographer, Justin Mott, in a series of photography challenges. By popular demand, Mott returns to reprise his role as Photo Face-Off’s resident professional photographer whom contestants compete against. Season 2 also sees enhanced changes to its show format with more challenging photography face-offs in store. Viewers of Photo Face-Off will also enjoy double the entertainment in one sitting with hour-long episodes in Season 2.

Amateur photographers who aspire to battle it out in an arena of creativity and inspiration are encouraged to submit their applications via these easy steps:

  1. Log on to historyasia.com/photofaceoff
  2. Download the application form (Microsoft Word Document), fill it up accordingly and attach three personally shot photographs that best showcase photography and visual story-telling skills.
  3. Email or post your application form before 30 April 2015

*Source: Nielsen Malaysia/Thailand; Kantar Singapore, Period: 23 Sep – 28 Oct 2014, Tuesdays, 10.30pm. 


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About HISTORY™ and HISTORY HD™
HISTORY™ and HISTORY HD™ are the leading destinations for entertaining hit series and revealing, award-winning event specials that connect history with viewers in an informative, immersive and fascinating manner across multiple platforms. Programming covers a diverse variety of genres ranging from real-life characters who bring history to life every day, to natural history, contemporary history, technology and science, as well as archaeology and pop culture. Hit series include Kings of Restoration, Pawn Stars, The Vikings, Ancient Aliens, Duck Dynasty, Counting Cars, Hidden Cities Extreme and Ride N’ Seek. For more information, please visit:

Homepage: www.historyasia.com
Facebook: HistoryAsia
Twitter: @HistoryAsia

About A+E Networks®
A+E Networks is an award-winning, global media content company offering consumers a diverse communications environment ranging from television networks to websites, from home videos/DVDs to gaming and educational software. A+E Networks is comprised of the following networks and divisions: A&E®, Lifetime®, HISTORY®, LMN™ (formerly Lifetime Movie Network®), bio.®, H2™, HISTORY en Español™, Crime & Investigation Network®, Military HISTORY®, LRW™ (formerly Lifetime Real Women®), A&E IndieFilms®, A+E Networks International™, A+E Networks Digital™ and A+E Networks Consumer Products™. A+E Networks’ channels and branded programming reach more than 330 million households in over 180 territories. A+E Networks is a joint venture of Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

Canon_logo

About Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Canon is a global leader in photographic and digital imaging solutions. Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd. is the headquarters for South & Southeast Asia driving sales, marketing and service strategies. Besides handling the domestic market, the company leads 18 other countries including subsidiaries in India, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The parent company Canon Inc has a global network of close to 300 companies and employs close to 200,000 people worldwide. It is dedicated to the advancement in technology and innovation and commits about 10% of its total revenue each year to R&D. Canon is consistently one of the top few companies to earn the most number of patents over the last 20 years. As a Fortune Global 500 company, Canon is guided by its kyosei philosophy that focuses on living and working together for the common good.

More information is available at www.canon.com.sg.

About Canon PhotoMarathon
Into its 13th consecutive edition, Canon PhotoMarathon is the premier photo competition in the South and South East Asia region. Spanning over 8 countries, Canon PhotoMarathon will bring together photographic talents from Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, challenging participants to create photographic masterpieces in line with assigned themes – under time pressure.

Participants will have their creativity and endurance stretched in this full-day event and the winner from each country will walk away with an unforgettable all-expenses paid trip to Canon Photoclinic, where they will be mentored by a professional photographer.

More details of Canon PhotoMarathon are available at www.canon-asia.com/photomarathon

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Pink Submissions #07 “Everyday Adventures” Editor’s Pick

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Tokina 11-20-New
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Pink Submissions #07 “Everyday Adventures” Editor’s Pick
Pink Feature

21st April 2015, Singapore – We have finally finished the selection for Pink Submission #07 “Everyday Adventures”! We apologize that this round took so long to conclude as we are mourning for the loss of our Nation’s Father, the Late Mr. Lee Kua Yew and out of respect, we had “stayed low” through that period. I am sure he is at a better place right now. He will be remembered dearly by all true blue Singaporeans and honored for generations to come.

OK, Back to the Submissions, this round #07 our theme was “Everyday Adventures” – and not an easy one to handle. Everyday everyone of us are faced with different challenges and it somehow made everyday an adventure – in our own ways. We had asked for the images to be submitted must depict a scene or an object or a person in the middle of an action/ motion that scream “adventures” and to made that more challenging, it must be something that we can all relate daily or easily. And we were quite surprised and in fact astonished by some of the entries as those images were “hit” right on!

This round, we received a total of 198 entries, including 31 rejected for various reasons. As expected, the standards of the entries had raised and we were quite happy with what we saw. Before we get to the Editor’s Picks (and winners), let’s hear from the Editor and our Sponsor Cathay Photo Store.

“This is not an easy theme to work on. Although we are all facing challenges everyday but that does not means that it can be easily translated into an image to express oneself. After looking at the submitted photos, I felt that the Ladies had done a really good job! Thank you Ladies!”
– AL, Editor.

“Excellent entries! Like what the Editor (AL) had said, this is not an easy theme. But you ladies managed to depict – everyday adventures – into images that left us in awe. Good Job Ladies and Keep up the good work!”
– Charmaine Toh, Cathay Photo Store.

Enjoy the entries!
(Winners Announcement after the jump)
(Appearance not in any order)


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Editor’s Picks #07 Pink Submission “Everyday Adventures”.
– Let’s see what or how the Pink Photographers define the theme “Everyday Adventures” and how they expressed the theme into images. I would like to invite you to look at the selected entries and try to understand (or figure out) why we picked these excellent images. Here we go.

1) Boat Ride – Photo by Doris Ang.
Doris Ang
In Singapore, our transport system is world-class while there are people at other parts of the world are struggling. Imagine you only form of transport is a boat and your backyard is a river. Commuting in such a situation is not the people’s choice but by default. Every day is a challenge every day is an adventure.

 

2) Heavy Traffic – Photo by Jolvin Zhang
Jolvin Zhang1
Well, contrary to popular beliefs and hallucinations, driving may not be a blessing (really) in Singapore. Apart from the high costs of owning a vehicle, the regular driver has to deal with traffic jams almost on a daily basis. On top of that, the driver-in-the-jam has to keep calm & cool, be on high alert, look out for irregular behaviour and the stress level is not easily comprehend by non-drivers. On the road? It’s always an adventure.

 

3) Heavy Tropical Storm – Photo by Eileen Maki Val
Eileen Maki Val
In Singapore, it’s either the scorching sun or the heavy tropical storm. Taking reference from number 2 above, the storm just raised the “difficulty” factor if you are out on the road. And if you are out there and not driving, imagine having to take shelter and wait for the rain to stop. While most passing storms will only last a short while, what if you encounter one that refuse to stop? Sun or Soak, it’s a daily Adventure.
4) Peak Hour – Photo by Josephine Tang
Josephine Tang
It’s not about the breakdowns. It’s about having to find your way to the right platform and “winning” a space for you to stand on before you missed the train and waiting for the next few packed ones that you can never squeeze yourself in. To the daily commuters, this is a daily challenge and very ride is an adventure, wait, did I also mentioned about the weird people you will find on the train too?

 

5) Peak Hour II – Photo by Josephine Tang
Josephine Tang1
Personally, I enjoy Bus rides more than Train rides. However, I will avoid both during peak hours at all costs. We have one of the most efficient transportation system in Singapore, but buses are still over-packed and sometimes takes ages to arrive. Taking a bus ride is like opening a Kinder’s Surprise, you never know what the next bus might be, might bring, it’s an adventure every time!

 

6) Peak Hour III – Photo by Judy (Hui Yi)
Judy Hui Yi
People everywhere. Waddling through crowds and avoiding a head-on collision with another person is something that we faced all day. It’s not that we have too many people rather I will put it as we have too little land. Sadly, that is something that we cannot do anything about it. I am sure all of you crossed at least 1 busy-packed junction daily, isn’t that a challenge? No? Then I am so very sure it’s an adventure. Now watch your front and not your phone.

7) Zebra Crossing in Vietnam – Photo by Magdalene Teo-Yong
Mag TY
Like what many travel websites had cheekily mentioned, if you had not tried crossing a street in Vietnam, you had not experienced Vietnam. True to a certain extent, some patience, some skills and some common sense is needed when attempting to cross a street in Vietnam. Lined by thousands and thousands of bikes and the occasional cars, it’s a very real challenge and an adventure of a lifetime! I’ve done it several times and you should too.

 

8) Going Home – Photo by Tan Hui Hui
Tan Hui Hui
Driving home, on a packed jammed road, with traces of the rain that had just passed, the evening sun soft glowing through the evening clouds. You are tired from working, still, you have to survive this to get home to a hot dinner waiting on the table. Anxiety & fatigue feeds on each other, you rubbed your eyes, after 30 mins you had only moved 3 metres.
And not forgetting to mention that you have to stay very alert as most accidents happened during peak hours. Adventure? Definitely.

9) My Bicycle & Me – Photo by Priscilla Huang
Priscilla Huang1
We rode together. Accompanying each other on every journey. Every hump, every pot hole, every junction, every walkway is not just an obstacle, it’s our adventure together. Everyday, pedaling through streets after streets, roads after roads, it’s a new experience & adventure every time we ride together. Wanna join me?

10) Travelling – Photo by Magdalene Teo-Yong
Mag TY1
I am very sure you will very much agree with me that every trip out of the country promises an adventure. There will a mix of expectations and unexpected adventures.
Like some had said, you can travel to a same destination for 100 times, it will be 100 different adventures. But of course, I will recommend visiting different countries lah being a Singaporean. That makes more sense for money. Every trip is an adventure, no doubt about it. (And if you fly everyday – our theme is “Everyday Adventures”)
11) On the Plane – Photo by Jolvin Zhang
Jolvin Zhang
(Comments below)

12) Travel II – Photo by Priscilla Huang
Priscilla Huang

As above (number 10), every trip is an adventure. Do you remember that thrill when you are looking out of the plane? And looking forward to land at another country with nothing to expect but a thousand possibilities? Looking for yet another trip? You are looking forward to more adventures. And I presume the authors of the above photos flies almost everyday. (Our theme is Everyday Adventures)

13) Working Under the Sun – Photo by Choy Wai Han
Choy Wai Han
We took a while to understand how Wai Han’s photo of a foreign work working and painting road lines under the hot sun can be related to “Everyday Adventures”. Maybe the best way to link this up to the theme will be to imagine this guy being sent to all parts o Singapore to work on different projects everyday. To this worker, everyday is an adventure! To be a new place everyday and seeing this country from many varying perspectives and from many lesser known places in Singapore. What do you think?

 14) Daily Commute – Photo by Susan Gwee
Susan Gwee
To the mother of these 2 little boys, it’s a daily challenge to be carrying them on her back to various destinations. But to the 2 little boys, every trip, every day is a new Adventure! For they do not know where they are exactly heading and what they may encounter on every journey. This is indeed Everyday Adventures!

 

15) Basking in the Cold – Photo by Trisha Lim
Trisha Lim
All he wanted was your attention, to appreciate the piece that he is playing and hopefully you will spare some cash so that he can buy food to fill his hunger and keep him warm. He plays for you regardless if you are going to spare some cash or not. To him, every day is an adventure for he does not know if he will have enough people to appreciate his music and pay him enough to keep him alive. If living on the edge like this is not an adventure, then what is?

 

16) Overcoming Yourself – Photo by Soh Chui Lian
Soh Chui Lian
This photo of a lady trying to scour a wall may not be directly linked to the theme (everyday adventures) unless this lady climbs wall everyday. However, looking from another angle, it is about overcoming yourself on a daily basis. That is where the adventures begin. Wouldn’t you agree?

17) Keeping Our Marine Life Alive – Photo by Hanes Mrd
Hanes Mrd
What better adventures will be than to be the hero who save the day? Our marine life are thriving however there are many factors that are destructive to the marine ecosystem. Everyone should do their part in keeping our marine life healthy, and it is an adventure to up it going. Go figure.

18) The Daring Photographer – Photo by Soh Chui Lian
Soh Chui Lian1
Photographers are known to go all out to get the shots that they desire. And sometimes doing dangerous stunts or even getting entangled with the law. Such are the daily adventures that most photographers goes through. You are here means likely you are a photographer too. I am 90% sure, so what’s your adventure?

19) The Path Ahead – Photo by Zhang Tian Tian
TianTian
Keep going is the word here. For the future and the path ahead of you lies many unexpected hurdles. It’s more than just an adventure. To live and move ahead is living out an adventure everyday. Facing everything that is ahead, that is adventure. And on a daily basis if I must add.

20) Street Food In Thailand – Photo by Doris AngDoris Ang1
Travelling is an adventure, but food is the adventure within the adventure. This shot of a wok full of crabs and prawns may be appealing to some while just as many will be put off. This is after all street food. 2 schools of thoughts here, first, the hawkers has to prepare this everyday, the next will be the tourists that passed the stall everyday. So whose adventure does this belongs to? I will leave you here to your thoughts.

 

And the Prize Winners for the #07 PINK SUBMISSION are!
– Proudly Sponsored by Cathay Photo Store.

1st Place: Susan Gwee
Photo: Daily Commute
Winner of National Geographic 8110 Tote Bag worth $190
Susan Gwee

2nd Place: Jolvin Zhang
Photo: Heavy Traffic
Winner of National Geographic A4470 Waist Pack worth $124
Jolvin Zhang1

3rd Place: Josephine Tang
Photo: Peak Hour
Winner of National Geographic W8000 Tote Bag worth $43
Josephine Tang

Congratulations to All the Winners!

You will be Notified on the Collection of your prize via FB.
For those that didn’t win, please try harder next time.
Remember, it’s not about the prize, but taking up the challenge and going all out to shoot the theme in your own way and expressing yourself.

Thank you for your participation Ladies! Love you all!

Special Thanks to Cathay Photo Store for sponsoring the Prizes!

Till then, look out for the next #07 Pink Submissions!

Ed.

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Posted in Featured Photographers, Featured Photography Groups, Featured Photography Merchants, Photography Articles & Videos, Photography Contests, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

HISTORY™ Asia’s First Original Reality Competition Series Returns‏

==================================
Tokina 11-20-New
==================================

HISTORY™ Asia’s First Original Reality Competition Series Returns‏
– Photo Face-Off Opens Casting Calls for amateur photographers across Asia

10th April 2015, Singapore – HISTORY™ Asia and Canon are embarking on a search for the next amateur photographer in the all-new season of Photo Face-Off – the first and biggest original reality competition series on the channel. After an immensely successful first season, Photo Face-Off is set to return later this year for its second season on HISTORY™ Asia. The series recorded excellent ratings within the region, winning the number one timeslot* in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

Photo Face-Off pits amateur photographers from around Asia against renowned professional photographer, Justin Mott, in a series of photography challenges. By popular demand, Mott returns to reprise his role as Photo Face-Off’s resident professional photographer whom contestants compete against. Season 2 also sees enhanced changes to its show format with more challenging photography face-offs in store. Viewers of Photo Face-Off will also enjoy double the entertainment in one sitting with hour-long episodes in Season 2.

Amateur photographers who aspire to battle it out in an arena of creativity and inspiration are encouraged to submit their applications via these easy steps:

  1. Log on to historyasia.com/photofaceoff
  2. Download the application form (Microsoft Word Document), fill it up accordingly and attach three personally shot photographs that best showcase photography and visual story-telling skills.
  3. Email or post your application form before 30 April 2015
*Source: Nielsen Malaysia/Thailand; Kantar Singapore, Period: 23 Sep – 28 Oct 2014, Tuesdays, 10.30pm

About HISTORY™ and HISTORY HD™
HISTORY™ and HISTORY HD™ are the leading destinations for entertaining hit series and revealing, award-winning event specials that connect history with viewers in an informative, immersive and fascinating manner across multiple platforms. Programming covers a diverse variety of genres ranging from real-life characters who bring history to life every day, to natural history, contemporary history, technology and science, as well as archaeology and pop culture. Hit series include Kings of Restoration, Pawn Stars, The Vikings, Ancient Aliens, Duck Dynasty, Counting Cars, Hidden Cities Extreme and Ride N’ Seek. For more information, please visit:

Homepage: www.historyasia.com

Facebook: HistoryAsia

Twitter: @HistoryAsia

Click Here to Advertise


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About A+E Networks®
A+E Networks is an award-winning, global media content company offering consumers a diverse communications environment ranging from television networks to websites, from home videos/DVDs to gaming and educational software. A+E Networks is comprised of the following networks and divisions: A&E®, Lifetime®, HISTORY®, LMN™ (formerly Lifetime Movie Network®), bio.®, H2™, HISTORY en Español™, Crime & Investigation Network®, Military HISTORY®, LRW™ (formerly Lifetime Real Women®), A&E IndieFilms®, A+E Networks International™, A+E Networks Digital™ and A+E Networks Consumer Products™. A+E Networks’ channels and branded programming reach more than 330 million households in over 180 territories. A+E Networks is a joint venture of Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

About Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Canon is a global leader in photographic and digital imaging solutions. Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd. is the headquarters for South & Southeast Asia driving sales, marketing and service strategies. Besides handling the domestic market, the company leads 18 other countries including subsidiaries in India, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The parent company Canon Inc has a global network of close to 300 companies and employs close to 200,000 people worldwide. It is dedicated to the advancement in technology and innovation and commits about 10% of its total revenue each year to R&D. Canon is consistently one of the top few companies to earn the most number of patents over the last 20 years. As a Fortune Global 500 company, Canon is guided by its kyosei philosophy that focuses on living and working together for the common good.

More information is available at www.canon.com.sg.

About Canon PhotoMarathon
Into its 12th consecutive edition, Canon PhotoMarathon is the premier photo competition in the South and South East Asia region. Spanning over 8 countries, Canon PhotoMarathon will bring together photographic talents from Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, challenging participants to create photographic masterpieces in line with assigned themes – under time pressure.

Participants will have their creativity and endurance stretched in this full-day event and the winner from each country will walk away with an unforgettable all-expenses paid trip to Canon Photoclinic, where they will be mentored by a professional photographer.

More details of Canon PhotoMarathon are available at www.canon-asia.com/photomarathon

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Renowned conceptual artist’s short film, “The Setting Up”, now available on NIKKOR.com

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Tokina 11-20-New
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Renowned conceptual artist’s short film, “The Setting Up”, now available on NIKKOR.com
– 
The global NIKKOR branding site has added two new videos featuring a short film, “The Setting Up” by Leandro Erlich, and a video interview with NIKKOR lens designers

10th April 2015, SINGAPORE – NIKKOR.com (http://www.nikkor.com) is now updated with two new videos, “The Setting Up”, a video by a popular conceptual artist, and the video version of the interview with NIKKOR lens designers, “Volume 1: What do designers think, and how do they create lenses?”, as announced by Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd today.

A short film by Leandro Erlich, “The Setting Up” is now available on the branding site’s NIKKOR Motion Gallery, where new and innovative video imaging with NIKKOR lenses is regularly introduced. In NIKKOR Motion Gallery, top artists in a variety of genres come together to expand the world of video imaging with a completely new genre made possible only with the combination of NIKKOR lenses and Nikon cameras.

“THE SETTING UP” by Leandro Erlich1
Leandro Erlich is a conceptual artist born in Buenos Aires. His humorous and witty works upset common perceptions and ideas about reality. Many of Erlich’s works have been exhibited around the world. He first made the transition to short films with a video showing the assembly of his “Toilette” installation, which was presented in 2005. The film shows how a viewer perceives the phenomenon that occurs between the subject, a mirror, and space.

Produced by visual design studio, WOW.
*1 “Swimming Pool”, one of Erlich’s most well-known and critically acclaimed pieces, is a permanent installation at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa


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About WOW: WOW is a visual design studio with bases in Tokyo, Sendai, and London. They are involved with a wide variety of design work that is not bound by existing media or categories. They continue to pursue new imaging possibilities in order to achieve the social function of visual design while maximizing the unique characteristics and sense of individual creators.

Video version of the designer interview, “Volume 1: What do designers think, and how do they create lenses?”

The video version of the designer interview, “Volume 1: What do designers think, and how do they create lenses?”, has also been added to the Philosophy of NIKKOR section of the global branding site. The video features designers of NIKKOR lenses discussing about lens design in a variety of angles, from the appeal of interchangeable lenses to the lenses that they themselves would choose. The passion of designers who continue to strive to produce the ultimate lens is expressed, as are the high level of quality and sense of innovation that NIKKOR lenses offer. A second interview, in which designers explain the philosophy behind the design of NIKKOR lenses and their appeal, will soon be added.

About NIKKOR.com
NIKKOR.com (http://www.nikkor.com) is a part of the global NIKKOR branding project for which full-scale operation started in 2013 when Nikon celebrated the 80th anniversary of NIKKOR lenses. This global branding site spreads the appeal of NIKKOR lenses for interchangeable-lens cameras around the world. With the constant addition of new contents in a variety of angles, the website continues to provide users of NIKKOR lenses with information to experience the enjoyment, and expand the possibilities available with photos and videos.

About the NIKKOR brand
NIKKOR is Nikon’s brand of photographic lenses. The NIKKOR name arose from adding “r”, a common practice in the naming of photographic lenses at the time the name was established, to “Nikko”, the Romanized abbreviation for Nippon Kogaku K.K., the original name used when the company was established.

Nikon’s line-up of lenses for cameras with interchangeable lenses currently consists of more than 90 types of lenses, including ultra-wide-angle to super-telephoto lenses, fisheye lenses, zoom lenses, micro lenses, and PC-E lenses that support a wide variety of applications, as well as 1 NIKKOR lenses for advanced camera with interchangeable lenses.

In October 2014, Nikon announced its milestone achievement of 90 million in total production of NIKKOR lenses for Nikon interchangeable lens cameras. The achievement is also accompanied by the equally momentous 50 million total production mark for NIKKOR lenses equipped with the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology.

About Nikon
Nikon. At the Heart of the Image. Nikon is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognised for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX compact digital cameras; Nikon sports optics as well as the Nikon 1 advanced cameras with interchangeable lens system in over 50 countries.

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For more information, please visit http://www.nikon.com.sg

Nikon Singapore Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/nikonsingapore

 

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Nikon announces development of new firmware for Nikon D4S, Nikon D810, and Nikon D750

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Tokina 11-20-New
==================================

Nikon announces development of new firmware for Nikon D4S, Nikon D810, and Nikon D750
– The new firmware will provide support for recording command function with HDMI output from the selected FX-format cameras to external recorders

10th April 2015, SINGAPORE – Nikon Corporation proudly announces the development of a new firmware for its Nikon D4S, Nikon D810, and Nikon D750 DSLR cameras, as shared by Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd today. The new firmware will provide support for recording command function with HDMI output to external recorders. Nikon plans to release the new firmware in succession this summer.

The firmware will enable synchronization of recording start and stop with HDMI output from the D4S, D810, and D750. As video recorders will recognize camera operations, recording start and stop commands of the external recorder can be synchronized with the similar commands of the camera. This new firmware will provide greater support for recording of high-definition, uncompressed data that makes the most of the superior resolution of the D4S, D810, and D750, and the excellent rendering performance of NIKKOR lenses, to external recorders. It will also make editing videos that harness superior sharpness and clarity, and rich tone characteristics, more efficient.

Nikon will continue to expand its video recording functions, and provide greater support for these functions, in order to respond to the creative intent of professional photographers, videographers, video creators, and advanced amateurs, so that they may take full advantage of the performance and functions of Nikon imaging products.

Demonstrations of the firmware, currently under development, is planned for the Nikon booth at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show to be held in Las Vegas from April 11 (Saturday) through April 16 (Thursday)1.

*1 Demonstrations will be held beginning on April 13 (Monday). Nikon Inc., Nikon Corporation’s American subsidiary, will be represented at the NAB Show

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• Development background
In recent years, the image and picture qualities of imaging devices, including digital cameras, have increased significantly. It has become easier than ever to enjoy high-resolution video, and customer needs for video recording functions have also increased. In addition, DSLR cameras are now being used for professional production of TV commercials and other video works, increasing the usage of these cameras beyond just the capture of still photos, but also for video recording with these applications.

With an awareness of the current situation, Nikon has developed a firmware that supports the enhancement of video recording functions so that users may more effectively utilise the Full HD video capability that achieves excellent sharpness and clarity with superior operation of the Nikon D4S, D810, and D750.

• About the Nikon D4S
The Nikon D4S is Nikon’s flagship FX-format DSLR camera that responds to the demands of professional photographers, who sometimes find themselves working under extremely challenging conditions, with improvements to a number of features and functions, including AF performance, image quality, workflow and operation, and movie recording. High-performance AF has been improved for more certain focus acquisition and better tracking performance, alongside superior picture quality with a sharper, more three-dimensional feel has been achieved for movies that exhibit rich expression of tones and stunning sharpness that preserves details. The D4S is also equipped with a high-performance viewfinder that offers better visibility, and both the grip and operation have been enhanced.

• About the Nikon D810
The Nikon D810 is a DSLR camera that boasts the best image quality in the history of Nikon DSLR cameras. This has been achieved with a new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor built without an optical low-pass filter, an effective pixel count of 36.3-million pixels, adoption of the latest EXPEED 4 image-processing engine, and a broad standard range of sensitivities, from ISO 64 to ISO 12800, that realize stunning sharpness and rich tone characteristics. The camera also supports recording of smooth, extremely sharp full-HD (1920 × 1080/60p) movies.

• About the Nikon D750
The Nikon D750 is a new model added to the Nikon FX-format DSLR line-up. It offers an effective pixel count of 24.3-million pixels, and is equipped with a new Nikon FX-format CMOS image sensor and the EXPEED 4 image-processing engine. Supporting superior image quality and full-scale specifications that pursue those of professional models, the D750 performs in a very agile, compact, lightweight, and slim body. It is also the first Nikon FX-format camera for which a tilting LCD monitor and built-in Wi-Fi® function have been adopted for greater convenience.

About Nikon
Nikon. At the Heart of the Image. Nikon is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognised for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX compact digital cameras; Nikon sports optics as well as the Nikon 1 advanced cameras with interchangeable lens system in over 50 countries.

For more information, please visit http://www.nikon.com.sg

Nikon Singapore Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/nikonsingapore

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Getty Images unveils innovative collaboration tool, Boards, and updated iOS app to empower the creative industry

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Getty Images unveils innovative collaboration tool, Boards, and updated iOS app to empower the creative industry
– Next-generation collaboration tool available on both the latest Getty Images iOS app and gettyimages.com

Singapore – 8th April 2015, Singapore – Getty Images, the world’s leader in visual communication, today unveils an innovative new Boards feature that sets a new standard for collaboration in the creative industry. This next-generation collaboration tool enables creatives to seamlessly curate, share and discuss Getty Images’ award-winning imagery and video content. Boards are available now on gettyimages.com and via the updated and redesigned Getty Images iOS app, which also launches today.

Developed with insight drawn from extensive customer research, Boards replace Getty Images’ Lightbox functionality and offer an intuitive curation experience that is both simple and fast. Creative teams can collaborate directly through the tool to review images and video from Getty Images’ vast content library, store their projects, and share them with external clients using a shared link.

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“In today’s always-on global economy, media and creative professionals collaborate with peers and clients who are just as likely to be across the world, as across the office,” said Steve Heck, Chief Technology Officer at Getty Images. “A true collaboration tool, Boards create a dynamic platform to bring your projects to life using the world’s best imagery. By establishing seamless workflows, Boards ensure creatives can capitalise on ideas and opportunities at any time, working across various devices, wherever they may be.”

Key features of Boards include:

·         View collections of images and videos according to specific projects or creative interests, without requiring users to sign in to gettyimages.com.

·         Easily curate your favourite images and compare images at a glance.

·         Invite colleagues and clients to collaborate and comment on individual images or an entire Board, by simply sharing a link.

·         Images are presented in a large dynamic format, with multiple layout options, making visual evaluation easy and fast.

·         Curate on the go with Boards on the updated Getty Images iOS app.  All updates made in the app or on gettyimages.com are immediately available across all devices and platforms.

Getty Images iOS app update
Also launching today is the updated and redesigned Getty Images iOS app, which now includes Boards. Designed to help creatives find inspiration and search and discover the world’s best imagery for their projects, the updated app includes browsable galleries of premium creative and editorial content and enables users to find and follow their favourite photographers. Images can now be shared legally and at no cost via iMessage, in addition to email and social networks via Getty Images embed tool.

“Customers are telling us they love the Getty Images iOS app and they primarily use it to search and select images for use in their creative projects. Inspiration can strike anywhere and the updated app makes it even easier to view the latest from our collection and share and follow your favourite images, photographers and trends, wherever you happen to be working,” said Heck.

The new app is available on iPhone 4S, iPad 3 and higher devices, as well as iOS8 compatible devices. The Getty Images iOS app can be downloaded for free from the iTunes App Store today. The updated Getty Images iOS app follows the recent update to the iStock by Getty Images iOS apps, Getty Images’ free app for consumers to view and share the world’s best photography.

About Getty Images –
Getty Images is the world’s leader in visual communication, with over 170 million assets available through its premium content site http://www.gettyimages.com.au and its leading stock content site http://www.istock.com. With its advanced search and image recognition technology, Getty Images serves business customers in more than 100 countries and is the first place creative and media professionals turn to discover, purchase and manage images and other digital content. Its award-winning photographers and content creators help customers produce inspiring work which appears every day in the world’s most influential newspapers, magazines, advertising campaigns, films, television programs, books and online media. Visit Getty Images at http://www.gettyimages.com.au to learn more about how the company is advancing the unique role of digital media in communications and business, and enabling creative ideas to come to life.  For company news and announcements, visit press.gettyimages.com, and for the stories, innovation and inspiration behind our content, visit Stories & Trends http://stories.gettyimages.com/. Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/gettyimages.australia  and Twitter at https://twitter.com/gettyimagesanz or download Stream, our free consumer app, to view and share the world’s best imagery.

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Posted in Brand: Others (Cosina, Carl Zeiss, Leica, Mamiya, Samyang, Vivitar, Zenitar,etc), Photography Articles & Videos | Tagged | Leave a comment

“My Journey with Tamron” – Photography Event

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 “My Journey with Tamron” – Photography Event
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(Announcement Date: 08th April 2015, Singapore)

(Update: 10th April 2015 – Event is FULL)

Event Information – “My Journey with Tamron”
An afternoon with Professional Photographer & Acclaimed Photography Educator Allan Lee about his photography career and how Tamron had played a part in his career. Allan will share about the history milestones of Tamron as a brand and also his personal choices of Tamron lenses that he uses for his commercial work. He will share in details the strength of each Tamron lenses that he owns and the deciding factors behind his decision to purchasing his Tamron lenses. Allan dubbed Tamron lenses are the most “misunderstood” lenses in the world – so come on down and join us for an afternoon to find out why?

About the Speaker: Allan Lee
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A commercial photographer whose works are mostly seen on outdoor & online advertisements in Singapore, Thailand & Malaysia, he is pretty low profile about his work. However he is widely known as an avid photography educator who believes in sharing his knowledge freely with his teaching appointment at the Photographic Society of Singapore, People’s Association of Singapore, NTUC Ulive and Canon EOS World. With a few solo photo exhibitions under his belt, his works also appears regularly on local papers, magazines & press materials. Did we mention that he is also a well-known Gear Reviewer with a huge following?

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Details:
Date: 02nd May 2015
Day: Saturday
Time: 10.00am to 1.00pm
Fee: Free
Pax: 40 pax
Location: Singapore Philatelic Museum
Type: Professional Photography Talk with Sales Counter, Demo Counter & F&B.

Programme Schedule
10.00am – Arrival of Guests
10.15am – Welcome by Tamron Singapore/ Serial
10.30am – My Journey with Tamron
11.15am – Q & A.
11.30am – Refreshment/ Sales of Lenses/ Demos and hands-on Tamron lenses.
12.00nn – Critiques and Returning of Demo lenses.
12.45pm – Closing by Tamron/ Serial & End.

To Register:
Email to ourshutterjourney@live.com.sg with the below details.
1) Name
2) Contact Number
3) Photography Level (Hobbyist/ Semi Pro/ Pro/ Trade)
4) Camera Brand
5) Number of Tamron Lenses currently owned.

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Sigma DP1 Quattro – The New Breed Just Got Wider

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Sigma DP1 Quattro – The New Breed Just Got Wider
– Featuring David Candlish

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24th March 2015, Singapore – Since our last review on the the Sigma DP2 Quattro, we had been waiting for the DP1 Quattro and the DP3 Quattro. Our speculations came to an end when Sigma called me and requested me to pick up the DP1 Quattro. If you have been following the DP Series, you would already know what this monster of a compact camera is capable of. Before I go on, if you found your way here looking for technical details or specs then too bad, we are not interested in that – but only how the camera will perform based on end-users’ feedback.

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For those that (really?) knew nothing about the DP Quattro series, here’s a quick brief.
The previously released DP2 Quattro came with a 30mm lens (about 45mm on full frame format), this DP1 Quattro came with a 19mm lens (about 28mm on a full frame) and the incoming DP3 Quattro (It’s already on our review in-tray) which came with a 50mm lens (about 75mm on full frame). Apart from that, all 3 Quattros shared almost 75% of the specs.

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All 3 Quattros has an aperture that opens from F2.8 to F16, DP1 & DP2 gets a 9 blades aperture while the DP3 gets the 7 blades. And due to the different lens configurations, the the DP1 Quattro gets 9 elements in 8 groups which is pretty usual for wide angle applications. (DP2 8/6 & DP3 10/8). Focusing wide, the DP1 Quattro gets to focus the nearest (20cm) among the 3 Quattros with a magnification ratio of 1:8.3 – not bad if you ask me. Weight wide, the DP1 Quattro is neither the heaviest nor the lightest of the 3 Quattros (at 425gm). All 3 Quattros uses the same legendary & unbeaten 33 megapixel Foveon X3 DIS CMOS sensor, accepts fast SD Cards, and every other specs are the same throughout the 3 Quattros.

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We took the opportunity to invite our guest reviewer & an award-winning photographer – David Candlish of Zenfolio fame – to have the DP1 Quattro for a weekend. Let’s see what he has to say about the new Sigma DP1 Quattro! (And we have decided to publish his review without any edit)

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The Sigma DP1 Quattro – by David Candlish

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Photo: David Candlish with the new Sigma DP1 Quattro

I’d heard and read a great deal about Sigma’s DP-series of cameras before being given the chance to review one and I’m sure you’ve seen pictures of the camera – it’s certainly eye-catching.  With it’s unique physical design, shooting limitations, novel sensor and highly regarded image quality its reputation certainly preceded it.  This was one camera I was EXTREMELY excited to get my hands on!   Handling it for the first time my first feelings were that I was going to be using something out of TETRIS to take photos.  Whatever the technical reasons for it’s design it just looks & feels absolutely batshit crazy!  That’s just the  basic camera too, add on the optional LVF-01 viewfinder clipping over the LCD screen you end up with an absurd looking machine.

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Having said that, it’s solid & weighty in the hand and although it’s slightly heavier on the lens side, it’s definitely one-hand holdable and the slight imbalance of weight doesn’t interfere with shooting.  The design ethos is definitely minimalist with two metal dials on the top of the camera, a 3″ LCD screen on the back flanked by a few function buttons and a mini D-pad control near why my thumb naturally rested.  The manual controls all feel reassuringly engineered with no slippage in the dials and there’s nothing too close to your fingers to accidentally press when shooting.  Overally, the minimalist layout works well and the unusual shape isn’t uncomfortable or impractical as I assumed it would be.

The DP1 has a fixed 19mm lens with a FOV equivalent to 28mm on full frame.  This puts it in the same general category as other fixed lens, large sensored cameras such as Fuji’s X100 series so I took to the city and devoted a whole day to putting it through it’s paces shooting street & landscape scenes.  The lens itself is very good indeed and the bokeh shot wide open at f/2.8 is very nice.  It maxes out at f/16 but with an APS-C sized camera you’ll most likely want to keep it below f/10 to avoid diffraction blurring.  The camera also doesn’t have a low-pass filter either, similar to the Canon 5DSR and the old Nikon D800e so resolution & sharpness should in theory be excellent.  Chromatic Aberration can be an issue though, check out the image quality section for samples. I’ll begin my review with a conclusion – shooting with the DP1 was 80% fun and 20% frustration! The whole experience reminded me of shooting film in many respects and I’ll discuss why.

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One of the quirks of the camera is it’s astonishingly poor battery life and the reason for the aforementioned inclusion of two batteries. This is partly because of the large rear screen but the main drain on the battery lies with the sensor.  Sigma rates each battery at 200-250 shots but my personal experience is that far, far fewer juice was available with only about 150 between recharges.  After dark it’s even worse.  My review unit also only came with a single battery so I was constantly nursing the camera to make sure I could make it through the day.

Shooting for a full 8-10 hours required thinking ahead – I took the charger with me and had to plan my photowalk around a range of coffeeshops who would kindly let me recharge the battery! As a result of the limited battery life it forced me to take an approach akin to shooting film.  I’d either turn off the camera completely or shut off the screen, forcing me to take my time considering each shot but at the expense of being able to react quickly to changing scenes.  Another niggle related is that the sensor & electronics get hot during operation, very noticeably so.  The door-wedge design is also thought to be partly in response to this, designed to dissipate heat.

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Another limitation relates to image quality, in particular the useable ISO range.  In a nutshell, there isn’t really a useable range!  ISO 100 and 200 are pretty good with what little noise being fine-grained and largely irrelevant.  You can stretch to 400 on occasion but I only found 800 to be useable in certain isolated cases.  Converting to monochrome helps a little at these higher ISOs but after trying the camera on AUTO ISO and seeing otherwise good shots ruined with noise, every time after that I took a considered approach to setting the ISO.  Again, this mirrors shooting film!  An unfortunate side effect I found was that it limited some of the types of scenes I wanted to tackle, like street photography. Even on a sunny day it was hard to keep a low ISO & fast enough shutter with many otherwise interesting scenes coming out too noisy or not sharp enough.  I’ll show examples of high ISOs in the image quality section but it’s important to note here how it will impact your use of the camera.

When the conditions are right though, it can produce some cracking photos.

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Photo: Before Cropping. (See below Photo)

The battery life & the poor high-ISO capability are probably the two biggest limitations of the DP1 but there are other quirks & features that spoil the experience at worst and force a particular style of shooting on you at best.  Having only a fixed rear LCD is obviously a disadvantage, doubly so because of the need for good light during the day to keep shutter speeds & the ISO manageable and the fact it drains the already rubbish battery quickly.  Likewise, the autofocus system is good in sunlight but slow to lock & frequently inaccurate after dark.  In fact, at night it can take many, many attempts to lock auto-focus and the manual focus system isn’t particularly good.

The metering system is reliable with standard spot, evaluative and centre-weighted.  Image files are larger than what you might be used to as well by virtue of the sensor & quality options. RAW and JPG are of course present but the DP1 alos has a “superfine” JPG mode as well – though choosing superfine prohibits you from saving RAW at the same time.  Superfine is basically an interpolation of several JPGs to boost apparent quality & resolution but although there are noticeable improvements when it comes at the expense of shooting RAW I personally found I’d opt for the latter.  The size of the files also presents another problem when it comes to continuous shooting and the internal frame buffer.  Though the camera displays it’s maximum of 7 shots before the buffer fills I often found that with RAW + JPG enabled, the first three frames were fine but there was a noticeable lag for the final 4 shots before the buffer filled completely and the camera locked up.

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Photo: After Cropping. (See above Photo)

RAW files from the DP1 are yet another problem though.  Sigma have taken the baffling decision to opt for the proprietary X3F format with the outcome that only their own Photo Pro software can read them.. and Photo Pro is an astonishingly slow & unintuitive application.  It doesn’t help when even the latest version of Photo Pro randomly fails to open RAW files too.  Sigma really, REALLY need to invest the time to make the cameras DNG compatible or at least give 3rd party applications the ability to process the X3F files.

The crappy software is a real shame because the RAW files do have a lot of potential.  The preset processing options are limited to common themes (landscape, vivid, portrait etc) and are useful to give an idea of possible processing options but the whole process of developing your RAW file is so slow to render I found myself trying to get everything perfect in camera so I didn’t have to open Photo Pro.  You could probably argue that’s a good practice to be promoting, albeit for the wrong reasons!  Yet another parallel with film photography & development!
Focusing is another mixed bag.  In good conditions the auto-focus is very capable but those same conditions often mean it’s so bright that viewing the LCD can be tricky.  Once the light diminishes so too the AF performance drops off a cliff.  Focusing is slow, inaccurate and it takes a lot of patience to lock on.  Manual focus is dreadful.  The LCD has fewer than 1 million dots so even the enhanced picture doesn’t help and it lacks focus peaking.  Best to stick to AF and be patient.sigma_dp1_010
With all of these attributes it would be easy to paint an overly negative picture of the camera, implying it has so many negative aspects it’s practically useless.  Although the flaws are many and can be intensely irritating at times, the camera does have charm.  When you approach shooting with the proper mindset & use the camera to make the best of it’s strengths it can be an extremely rewarding experience.  Though not exclusively limited to landscape photography the DP1’s strengths certainly nudge it towards excelling in that area.

Sigma & their fans are very vocal when it comes to their output and they aren’t afraid to bandy around terms like “unsurpassed”, “medium format quality” and other extremely lofty statements.  With all of the negative aspects the camera needs an ace in the hole!

The good news?  When you take your time with the DP1 it can give some awesome results!  Check out the sample images below to see just what it can do.  All images are straight out of camera JPGs unless otherwise stated.  I’ve tried also to use high resolution images where possible.

Conclusion

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Photo: David having fun with the Sigma DP1 Quattro. 
The entire DP-series cameras are strange beasts.  They have serious flaws but can produce seriously good images.  They are fun & frustrating at the same time, but also force a broadly positive mindset change when using them.  The certainly encouarge patience!  Their price – £899 in the UK, S$1700 in Singapore – effectively forces them into a niche but their strengths also make them excel in that niche. If I were more serious & dedicated to my landscape photography then I would absolutely consider them as an option, simply because when you do get a good picture it ends up being a GREAT picture.  S$1700 is a long way towards either another camera, like the X100T, or a lens.

The other thing to consider is that with cameras like the 5DSR are now showing what SLRs without anti-aliasing filters can achieve my feeling is the DP niche continues to narrow.  My fear is that the gap between the DP1 and rival DSLRs image quality is narrowing the flexibility and overall maturity of the DSLR will consign the Foveon sensors to the history books.  I tempted to get one for when this camera becomes a collector’s item in years to come.  As a working camera my heart would love one but my head can’t justify it.

David Candlish
Website – http://davidcandlish.photography
email – info@davidcandlish.photography

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Posted in Brand: Sigma, Featured Photographers, Group Test & Reviews, Photography Articles & Videos | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Hair For Hope 2015

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Hair For Hope 2015
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02nd April 2015, Singapore – Since Children’s Cancer Foundation’s Hair for Hope started in 2003, I have been secretly wishing that one day, I will have the courage and be brave enough to shave my head bald in full view of the public. Before I knew it, years had passed while I silently procrastinated year after year. I had an extremely difficult year last year and going through a lot of hardship on various front. I survived and learn (the hard way) that life’s lashing does make one stronger. For some strange reason, I feel that I can associate the pain that these children goes through and somehow it relates to my emotional pains that I am struggling with last year. I decided to go for it (Hair for Hope) this year and registered myself.

Since I do not have much friends, I pledged a targeted donation of SGD $500.00 but as of today, I realized that I had gotten SGD $1,070.00 so far from supporters. I know this amount is still far from what others had gotten from their supporters, but I am not giving up just yet. I do hope that I can continue to increase the donations aka crowd-funding-style via my various social media platforms. (See bottom of article of How You Can Support this Cause)

So why shave my head bald?
Through this symbolic gesture of shaving bald, CCF aim to:

  1. Create awareness of childhood cancer in Singapore
  2. Show children with cancer and their families that they are not alone in their fight against cancer
  3. Tell children with cancer that it is OK to be bald
  4. Raise funds to help children with cancer and their families
  5. Build a community of support for children with cancer and their families

Hair for Hope is the only head-shaving event in Singapore that raises funds and awareness of childhood cancer. Every shaven head represents an understanding by an individual of the ordeals that a child with cancer is subjected to.

This year, CCF hope to encourage at least 6,500 participants to join their cause and raise $3.6 million to aid children and families impacted by cancer.

All funds raised will help to fund critical programmes and services for CCF’s beneficiaries.

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About CCF
Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) is a non-profit organisation with a mission of improving the quality of life of children with cancer and their families through enhancing their emotional, social and medical well-being.

Founded in 1992, CCF provides children with cancer and their families the much needed support in their battle against the life threatening illness. In a year, CCF helps more than 2000 children and their families at different stages of the illness.

Armed with the vision of providing world-class resources and psychosocial services to children and their families impacted by childhood cancer, CCF employs professional caseworkers and counsellors. CCF adopts an integrated hospital-home-community service model to offer a spectrum of critical services to our beneficiaries.

  • In the Hospitals – CCF helps children who are newly diagnosed with cancer and undergoing active treatment with their hospital experience. We offer emotional, financial and social support, with a focus on therapeutic play for the children and support activities for their caregivers. Our caseworkers and counsellors are based in KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) and the National University Hospital (NUH) to work alongside our medical partners in the paediatric oncology wards.
  • In the Community – With more children surviving childhood cancer, CCF Community Social Work Team provides continual care to help enhance the quality of life for survivors. We help children return to school and support siblings of children with cancer. In collaboration with corporate partners, we offer social and recreational activities for the children and their families. We continue to monitor and support survivors who may have to cope with long term side effects due to the treatment of cancer. The support of community partners are actively sought to provide continuing care to our beneficiaries.
  • In the Homes – When a child is at the end stage of his/her life, it is a tremendously challenging time for the dying child and the family members. Palliative and bereavement support are critical services provided by CCF to improve the quality of life of the affected families.
  • Services offered to children with cancer and their families
    • Casework and Counselling
    • Therapeutic Play
    • Art Therapy
    • Play Therapy
    • Caregivers Support Services
    • Back-to-School Service
    • Tuition & Befriending
    • Survivorship Programme
    • Very Important Brothers and Sisters (VIBS)
    • Social and Recreational Activities
    • Financial Assistance
    • Palliative & Bereavement Support
    • Place for Academic Learning and Support (PALS)
    • Children Impacted by Cancer

Place for Academic Learning and Support (PALS)
CCF’s learning centre, PALS, commenced operations in November 2012 to help children and youths with cancer and prepare them intellectually, emotionally and socially for a smooth transition back to school.

PALS is a place for learning and friendship in a fun and supportive environment.

Curriculum
Our holistic curriculum which incorporates academic coaching and integrative therapies, aims to draw upon the unique experiences of each child and empower him/her to become a self-assured and forward-looking individual. We provide ample opportunities for each child to work with his/her peers, school and community partners to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.

CCF will continue its strategy to work with like-minded partners to build a supportive community which offers critical resources to children with cancer and their families.

How You Can Support this Cause & Me?
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Photo: AL with his Blue Hair going bald for Children with Cancer.
 

1) Moral Support
The day for my Public Shaving is on 25th July 2015, between 1.00 to 2.00pm at Vivo City, Singapore. If you have time, or visiting Singapore, please drop by to say Hi! and render me your moral support.

2) Donations
No matter which part of the world you are reading this from – You can do your part.
You can click on this link and make your donations directly to CCF in support of my act.
Any amount will go along way even if it is just SGD $1.00 – really appreciate if you can help donate. So just click here and make a small donation.
(On Page, Go to the Yellow Box, Click on Support Me)
*For Singaporeans, for tax exemptions, you have to make a minimum donations of SGD $50.00 to qualify.

3) Share My Cause
Apart from making a small donation, you can help too by sharing this link
https://hairforhope.org.sg/shaveeProfile/3540” to your social media platforms and networks so that awareness can be achieved.

Remember, you are not helping me, but Children with Cancer.
For I truly believe that it is a blessing to be able to help others.
It doesn’t mean that you have to be rich to give, but a conscience.
I would like to sincerely Thank You in advance for reading this far and I hope you will make a donation to CCF and as a support for my act.
Thank you.

Editor AL.
media_world@live.com

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2015 Advertising Rates Across Our Media Platforms

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Our Website(s) Advertising Rates
(Update: 02nd April 2015)Have a message to send out to a targeted mass?
Let us help you reach a total mass of 450,000 readers daily across all our online platforms today!

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Ourshutterjourney

Primary Audience Includes
– Photographers of All Levels
– Photography merchants and brand owners
– Traders and people looking for equipment news and reviews.
– Artistic individuals
– Media, Photographic, Videography industry
– General Public with photography needs
– Tourists visiting Singapore
and every other person who owns or looking to buy a camera/ lens. Our reviews and articles were one of the most circulated and read, from Singapore to USA. Prominently with presence on Dpreview, DSLR On the Net etc.
Need we say more?

Weekly Reach: 535,000
Type: Worldwide
Ad Type: Advertorial, Gear Reviews, Corporate Announcements, Banner Ads, Promo-Ads.
Price: From $450/ month or $80/ article.

 

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Singapore Media Owners

Primary Audience Includes
– Marketing Specialists
– Brand Owners
– Ad Agencies
– Creative Agencies
– PR Agencies
– Quirky public
– Media Watchdogs
– Primary General Public
and every other mother’s son. Why? We appear almost in every other google searches!
If you need attention, we give you the world, and this is the site that you should advertise in.

Weekly Reach: 485,000
Type: Worldwide
Ad Type: Advertorial, Corporate Announcements, Banner Ads, Promo-Ads.
Price: From $450/ month or $80/ article.

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Ad-Library Singapore
Primary Audience Includes
– Marketing Specialists
– Brand Owners
– Ad Agencies
– Creative Agencies
– PR Agencies
and everything else in between this Media Mambo Jumbo.
If you need to make some professional noise for your brand, this is the site that you should advertise in.

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Ad Type: Advertorial, Corporate Announcements, Banner Ads, Promo-Ads.
Price: From $250/ month or $50/ article.

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Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD

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Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD
– Featuring Guest Reviewer Guek Peng Siong (GPS)

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Photo: Peng Siong aka GPS with the new Tamron 15-30mm mounted on his camera.

 

24th March 2015, Singapore – Tamron’s latest lens is set to change the way how photographers perceived Ultra-Wide Angle Zooms lens for Full Frame Sensors. (35mm). The Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD (on most APS-C sensors 22.9mm-45mm or 24mm-48mm on Canon’s APS-C & 19.5mm-39mm APS-H) is a new breed of ultra-wide angle zoom lens that will set a new benchmark on how such a lens should behave or priced. Before we get there, let’s do a quick run-up on Tamron’s product development. Since Tamron released that SP 24-70mm F2.8, the photography world woke up to more insane surprises like the 16-300mm hyper zoom for APS-C, then followed by the professional 150-600mm Super Tele-zoom. Just when the world was wondering what Tamron might pull off next, the SP 15-30mm came to our world. As of today, the Tamron SP 15-30mm is the World’s First “Widest-Angel-Zoom-Lens for Full Frame”.

So what is this latest monster from Tamron all about? This weighty lens (about 1 kg) is huge (9.8cm x 14.5cm) is making a huge statement on the first look. This is common with most large aperture wide angle lenses and the 15-30mm is a zoom, so the size and weight is acceptable given how the lens was constructed. On the outside, Tamron is using the proven all-weather coated compound that made the lens strong enough to survive most outdoor abuses, apart from the large size, everything else is well-thought out. Switches are easy to reach, the zoom ring and focusing ring feels smooth and purposeful, the overall grip is excellent.

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Photo: The New Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD (A012)

 

On the inside, you will be glad to know that Tamron had opted for the “rounded-iris” 9 aperture blades set up that allows light from F2.8 to F22. For the elements, there’s 18 in 13 groups which partially explained the weight. Tamron included the XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) element making this high-performance UWA zoom lens behaving like it is 2 prime lenses of 15mm and 30mm respectively. This lens starts focusing from just 25cm and it runs on the company’s highly successful Ultrasonic Drive (USD) motor giving the user breakneck focusing speed while doing its thing at near silence.

As usual, before we carry on, if you are looking for technical reviews etc, you are in the wrong place, we are more keen on how the lens perform over the technical gaga that most of you wouldn’t understand anyway. ( Ha ha!) If you want tech details look here.

We invited our guest reviewer, Guek Peng Siong – better known as “GPS” by his peers and the local photography community to have the Tamron SP 15-30mm for a weekend. Let’s check out his thoughts on this lens as well as the excellent photos that he shot using this lens.

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The Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD
– Reviewed by GPS

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First Impressions – I was excited when the Editor AL contacted me to review the new SP 15-30mm F2.8. I was never a Tamron fan although I’ve heard interesting things about this brand. It was later make known to me that I will be having the SP 15-30mm for a weekend. Opening the box, I saw a lens that I can never imagine to be from Tamron. The lens build was very impressive and it does look very expensive to me. The surface finishes are well-toned for outdoor use and feels nice to the touch. For certain moments, I thought I was holding the Nikon AF 14-24 F2.8 ED, yes that’s how solid it is.

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Handling – First thing that I would like to mention is the cover-on lens cap. I am sure many of you with lenses that has the cover-on type, most of the time it’s very loose and fell off pretty easily, however, for the Tamron SP15-30mm, the lens cap sits nicely with not too much free-play and sure, it does feel like it will not fall off anytime soon. The next thing that I like a lot was the smooth zoom ring. It feels like it had been “buttered” and the grip is excellent, likewise the focusing ring was also made in the same fashion. The size and ratio is good for any hands/ fingers out there so Tamron had scored a lot of points here.

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The corner distortion is very manageable, a surprise actually because usually for such lens, it is common that users suffers from softness at the corners, but not this lens. In fact I find that Tamron had sorted out this department pretty well and the corners will be very much acceptable by most photographers of today. 

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Next I would like to share with the readers that I am very impressed with the focusing. It was so quiet that for several times, I had to look at the distance scale meter window to confirm that the lens is focusing. The near silence focusing from Tamron is the real deal here and it is fast. The SP 15-30mm focus in milliseconds and it locks focus really fast, this is really unexpected from a 3rd party lens maker and Tamron made that happened. I also tried focusing tracking (AF-C) and it works really well too. To top that off, the Vibration Control (VC) from Tamron is a proven technology that many Tamron fans will swear by – I tried shooting with a slow speed of 0.3″ while handheld and the photo was sharp when recorded. Thumbs up for the VC!

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On the image produced by the Tamron SP 15-30mm F2.8, the quality is excellent. The details are well-captured with colors that are rendered nicely and with a hint of mid-range contrasts. The photos are sharp and crisp with almost zero CA. I have no complaints really – with this lens.

 

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However the Editor AL insisted that I must find a fault that I would complain about if I can have things my way. That will be the Lens Hood. With a mid-size lens that was made so solid, it will be great to have a metal hood instead of the thermal compound hood that was supplied. There’s really nothing to complain and I am more of picking at the lens now haha.

 

GPS_2739

Recommendation – So would I recommend this lens to anyone? Surely I will. In fact I am contemplating to buy one for myself as I write. After finding out the selling price at my regular dealers, I am so buying one soon, the asking price will not cost you an arm & a leg. (Maybe just a few fingers) You can buy yours from the links below after the jump.

 

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Summary –  This is by far, one of the best lens that Tamron had made. As technology advances with better DSLRs, Tamron is definitely keeping up the times with newly designed releases. To me, lenses are an investment, so I will always buy lenses that will last or even outlast the camera bodies that I am using. This SP 15-30mm is definitely made to last. Hardy & solid, you have to hold it yourself to believe.

Mid-size but not too big, weighty but not too heavy, coupled with excellent images with (negligible) minimal distortion, the excellent VC, fast & quiet focusing, I will say that Tamron is selling this lens too cheap. (Hahahaha!) It is very value for money and suitable for a wide variety of applications. Get it people!

Peng Siong (GPS), 45 years old is an IT Analyst and a freelance Photography Coach. He had been in photography for a good 15 years (5 years film, 10 years digital) specializing in Landscape, Astrophotography, Sports, Stage & Events Photography.
guekps@gmail.com / http://facebook.com/guekps / http://guek.net
To buy this lens from Tamron Singapore’s appointed dealers, click here.
To buy this lens from Ourshutterjourney.com dealers, click here.

Special Thanks to:
Tamron Singapore for the lens.
Peng Siong for taking time to review the lens.

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NIKON’S RANGE OF DX-FORMAT CAMERAS: CONNECTED, CREATIVE AND CAPABLE

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NIKON’S RANGE OF DX-FORMAT CAMERAS: CONNECTED, CREATIVE AND CAPABLE
– Explore and grow with the Nikon D7200, D5500 and D3300

 

23rd March 2015, SINGAPORE – Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd today announces the completion of the latest range of DX-format cameras, providing every amateur photographer and enthusiast with the tools to push boundaries and pursue creative instincts while capturing brilliant images and videos.

The DX family now includes the recently announced Nikon D7200, D5500, and the D3300. Carefully crafted for maximum flexibility and performance, photographers of any skill level now have a DX-format model to keep up with each individual’s pace as their level of expertise evolves.

“Nikon’s latest DX-range of DSLR reflects our partnership and commitment to nurturing the passion of photographers and the culture of photography, by supporting them in the pursuit of great shots every time,” said Hiroaki Ono, General Manager of International Marketing Division Imaging Group, Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd. “The range allows photographers to engage and connect with the world around them like never before, with rich details and vibrant colours for still images and Full HD videos, all with a camera that is user-friendly, dependable and adaptable. From convenient connectivity to great low-light performance, or compatibility with an extensive imaging ecosystem and resilient camera body, the D7200, D5500 and D3300 will see the photographers through their promising craft.”

 

The Nikon D7200: When only the reliable will do
An explorer’s ultimate companion, the always-ready D7200 is perfect for advanced enthusiasts who crave stand-out performance at every step of the journey.

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The D7200 shines with 24.2-megapixels DX-format CMOS sensor, built without an optical low-pass filter, providing an immersive experience with a camera that is a pleasure to shoot with. An ISO range of 100 to 25600 with the EXPEED 4 image-processing engine aids in improved noise reduction performance, while maintaining quality image definition at high ISO. The latest Nikon DSLR also delivers low-light prowess from a powerful 51-point autofocus (AF) system thanks to the new Advanced Multi-CAM 3500 II autofocus sensor module also seen in the Nikon D750. Superior low-light performance is further enhanced with an expanded AF detection range down to -3EV.

For the precise moments in dynamic situations with great expressions and fast movements, photographers can now capture 100 JPEG frames during continuous shooting with the extended buffer capacity. The D7200 is also the socially-connected adventurer’s camera, with built-in Wi-Fi®*1 and Near Field Communication (NFC) support*2, the first of such combination for a Nikon DSLR. Photographers now have the ability to share their adventures in real time with the world via their favourite social media sites.

Made for capturing the vastness and majesty of the outdoors, stunning time-lapse video is also possible with the D7200, another first for the Nikon DX-format range of cameras. Movie-making magic is now in the hands of the user, with smooth exposure variations and minimal disruption to video and image quality when encountering rapidly changing lighting conditions. The D7200 boasts other handy features to simplify the movie-making process such as dedicated movie menus for convenient settings, an additional highlight display function, and improved audio performance with wind noise reduction.

As a top-of-the-line DX-format DSLR, premium design and materials have been incorporated into the camera’s construction for a sleek, resilient finish, while a comprehensively-sealed body protects the camera from dust and water droplets.

The Nikon D5500: Define your creative identity
The Nikon D5500 is the artist’s muse, inspiring photographers to continually redefine their artistic boundaries, and breathes life into still images and HD videos.
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A camera designed for photographers seeking to create images in new and exciting ways, the D5500 comes with a 24. 2-megapixel CMOS sensor built without OLPF and features a 39-point AF system accompanied by the EXPEED 4 image-processing engine. Accompanied by a 3.2-inch vari-angle touch screen LCD monitor, the D5500 is an impressive assembly of imaging technology to tell creative stories in remarkably sharp, vivid details and tonally-rich quality.

The D5500 boasts a suite of intuitive features that put creativity in the hands of aspiring photographers. The DSLR features an intelligent eye-sensor feature which automatically turns the LCD monitor screen on and off as necessary, and a ‘Touch Fn’ for quick adjustments of operational settings. With the ‘Touch Fn’, functions selected can be easily executed via touch operation with the right thumb whilst holding the grip and confirming viewfinder information. Another first for Nikon DSLR cameras, the D5500 also comes with a touch operation permission feature, incorporating a setting that allows touch-screen controls only during playback while disabling them during shooting.

The camera supports a wide ISO range of up to 25600 for low-lighting conditions, high speed continuous shooting frame rate of 5 frames per second*3 (fps) to capture sharp and precise shots of dynamic action, and records smooth Full HD 1080/60p videos with crystal clear audio.

Also at hand are 16 scene modes, specifically configured for shooting in a wide variety of situations and subjects. During shooting, a selection of 10 special effects settings is available, displaying the effects in real time for photographers to visualize their unique, personalized creations. These special moments can in-turn be shared instantly with friends and family using the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi®*1.

Being the world’s lightest*4 DSLR, the D5500, available in black (in Singapore), inspires the aesthetically-inclined with its sleek and innovative design DNA.

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The Nikon D3300: The Perfect Start
The D3300 is packed with powerful features that give users who are new to DSLR the independence to capture the world around them with a device that is delightfully simple to use.
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The robust D3300 comes with an EXPEED 4 image-processing engine and 24.2 effective megapixels in a lightweight, compact body, giving photographers the freedom to experiment like never before, to shoot both great images and videos. With the Nikon D3300, users stand at the heart of the image in dynamic environments with high movement, with high-speed continuous shooting of up to 100 JPEG frames with approximately 5 fps*3 and an 11-point AF system. Challenging lighting conditions are also easily overcome with an ISO range of 100 to 12800 that can be expanded to 25600. This user-friendly DSLR also includes the Picture Control, a Nikon original system of image creation, where photographers can easily tweak image characteristics such as saturation, brightness, hue, contrast and sharpness, all of which can also be saved and configured as custom settings.

For those who are just beginning to discover the joy of photography, the camera’s Guide Mode which provides step-by-step instructions for capturing exquisite images, will be a helpful support in every step of the way. Every captured moment can also be embellished with 13 special effect modes and various retouch options, making it easy for budding photographers to creatively express themselves. Budding film-makers will have the ability to preserve precious memories on video in stunning details with Full HD movie recording in 1080/60p.

When the perfect captures are done, the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, together with the free Wireless Mobile Utility app, allows photographers to transfer their favourite shots to smart devices for sharing. Users can also control the image size to be transferred and add location information, obtained through the smart device, to the images. For selfies and challenging shooting angles, remote shooting is made possible with the adapter and app for convenient shooting every time.

For a personalised style, the D3300 is also available in colours of black and red (in Singapore).

1 Wireless Mobile Utility must be downloaded onto a smart device (compatible with iOS/AndroidTM) to use the Wi-Fi® function. Wireless Mobile Utility can be downloaded for free from the appropriate application store. Wireless transfer of videos is available only on the Android OS

2 NFC-compatible Android™ smartphones and tablets (Android 4.0 or later)

3 Measured in accordance with CIPA guidelines

4 Among digital SLR cameras equipped with a vari-angle monitor as of March 23, 2015, based on Nikon research

As part of Nikon’s outstanding range of DX-format DSLR, the D7200, D5500 and D3300 enjoy seamless integration with an array of NIKKOR lenses and accessories including Speedlights, wireless remote controls, external stereo microphones, and others. Photographers will find a comprehensive imaging ecosystem to create and complement a photography experience of their choice as they hone their craft.

The full range of Nikon’s DX-format cameras is now available in stores. For more information on the Nikon D7200, D5500, D3300 and other Nikon products, including the comprehensive range of NIKKOR lenses, please visit www.nikon.com.sg

About Nikon
Nikon. At the Heart of the Image. Nikon is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognised for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX compact digital cameras; Nikon sports optics as well as the Nikon 1 advanced cameras with interchangeable lens system in over 50 countries.

For more information, please visit www.nikon.com.sg

Nikon Singapore Facebook Page www.facebook.com/nikonsingapore

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Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) – First to Review in Singapore

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Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) – First to Review in Singapore
– Featuring Melvin Ho, Cindy & Chester Chen
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Photo (L to R): Cindy, Editor AL, Melvin Ho & Chester Chen
Photo by Trisha Lim

 

14th March 2014, Singapore – We were given the NEW Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (Art) from Sigma and we decided to review it via our guests reviewers for some real world user-comments. Made & designed as one of Sigma’s Top-Line Prime Lens, this Wide-angle lens is “created” to the likes of the ultra successful Sigma 35mm F1.4 ART as well as the 50mm F1.4 ART. According to Sigma, the new 24mm F1.4 ART  was designed to give photographers of what Sigma calls the “edge to edge performance”. Most photographers would know that for wide angle focal range like 24mm (on full frame), the corners are somewhat distorted which is a normal phenomenon that occurs in most wide angle lenses. Sigma aims to counter this and came up with a design that had the aspherical elements finding its way to the back of the lens barrel/group which allows users to shoot high quality images even when the aperture is opened wide.

Topping off that, Sigma incoporated premium FLD & SLD glass elements which dramatically reduces chromatic aberrations (CA) & corner distortions to a negligible level. Made as an all-purpose prime lens for wide angle applications, Sigma informed us that this lens was designed for “wedding photography, landscape photography, videography, astrophotography, indoor photography and event photography.”

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Photo: The New 2015 Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART)

 

From our past reviews with the 35mm (ART) & 50mm (ART) (Part 1 & Part 2), we expected a lot more with the New 24mm (ART) as the previous 2 releases are already award-winning lenses now. On first look, the lens is slightly shorter than both 35mm & 50mm at 85mm x 90.2mm, and it’s pretty light at 665g. Featuring the same level of build, the lens barrels are made using the TSC and the lens size & design vividly reminded me of the Sony-Zeiss SAL CZ-24mm F1.4 SSM. A 9-blader which stops down to F16, the new 24mm focuses from a mere 25cm rendering a good magnification ratio of 1:5.3. It accepts 77mm filters at the front and it runs on the company’s proven and improved hypersonic motor (HSM) that gives you near silent focusing and hyper-fast & accurate focusing.

We invited 3 Guest Reviewers this Round to put the new Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (Art) through its paces and hear what they think of this lens after using them. We have Melvin Ho, a Wedding & Event Photographer with a Full Frame Canon EOS 5D MarkIII, Cindy, a serious Enthusiast with an APS-C Canon EOS 60D and lastly, an Award-winning photographer Chester Chen testing out the 24mm (ART) with his Infrared-converted (full Spectrum) Canon EOS 5D MarkII for IR compatibility.

What Melvin Ho have to say –
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Photo: Melvin Ho with the New Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM(ART) mounted on his Canon 5D MarkIII.

 

“The new Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) is rock-solid. Lens built and overall design is very good and it does seems like this is a lens that can withstand the elements. This has live up to the mass expectations of being an “ART” lens. On shooting, the lens is easy to handle and switches well-placed and it is not heavy to carry or use. In terms of image quality, I would say that the distortion control is well sorted out and in fact if you are not paying attention, you might not even notice any distortion at all. This is a great lens for wedding table shots or ambience documentations or even portraits of wedding guests against a background or a decorated scene. Lastly, it was revealed to us that this lens costs only a fraction of Canon’s EF 24mm F1.4L USM.” – Melvin Ho.

 

Shots by Melvin using the new Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART)  Sigma24-001 Sigma24-002 Sigma24-003

Melvin Ho is 37 years young, 6 years in wedding photography. 

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Photo: Melvin keeps smiling to himself while using the new Sigma 24mm (ART). We wonder what he saw that made him smile.

 

What Cindy have to say –
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Photo: Cindy with the New Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM(ART) mounted on her Canon 60D.

“The New Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) is light and compact making itself more user-friendly to users. I also like the fact the lens looks very professional although its a 3rd party lens. On the lens, it is a very versatile lens and it has a wide variety of possible uses – even when it is used on an APS-C sensor. I would like to highlight that the photos produced by this lens is sharp even when I was shooting with it wide-open (aperture). I had lots of fun using this lens and I would recommend this lens to anyone who wants to have a fast wide-angle primes lens (for full frame) or a street lens (for APS-C) – the possibilities are endless.” – Cindy S. 

 

Shots by Cindy S. using the new Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) picPic1 Pic2 pic3

 Cindy S,  an ageless beautiful young lady who loves macro photography and had been doing photography for about 3 years.

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Photo: Cindy shooting a “pre-scene check” before mounting the New Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM(ART).


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What Chester Chen have to say –
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Photo: Chester Chen with the New Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM(ART) mounted on his Infrared-Converted Canon 5D MarkII.

 

“I had the opportunity to fire a few shots with the Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) lens on my Canon EOS 5DMk2 modified full spectrum infrared camera to test for IR compatibility. As this was a co-review with other guest reviewers, it was a time-limited window to test the lens.”
 
“For comparison I shot an equivalent focal length using EF 17-40 f/4 lens at the same aperture of f/5.6., please see the photo examples below.”

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[ CAN24_56.JPG ]
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“The two raw files were converted to B&W in Photoshop. No additional sharpening or clarity was added. Exposure was tweaked to achieve a desirable image for this article.

You’ll notice that the prime lens at 24mm does offer the same viewing angle of the Wide Angle Canon zoom. However, the 17-40 tends to make the buildings look a lot more distant and smaller.

Take a look at the 100 percent crops to get an idea of sharpness at f/5.6. Note I chose to zoom this area of the image because it had similar lighting although not exact.

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“I don’t have access to the Canon 24mm f/1.4 Mk2 for comparison. I do know that the Canon 24mm works well shooting infrared and the Sigma does appear to work well with no hotspotting. If you like primes and the sharpness associated with primes the Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Series lens is worth a look as it is very friendly to your wallet.” – Chester Chen.

Chester Chen, a mysterious photographer who had won multiple photography awards and loves spending time with his children. (When he is not holding a camera of course.)

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Photo: Chester with the New Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) under the extreme heat from the mid-day sun.

 

Editor’s Note:
From what we gathered from our 3 guest reviewers, the new 2015 Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART) is well poised to challenge & take on the wide-angle prime lens market. Well built, good image quality and a fraction of the asking price of other equivalents, the 2015 Sigma 24mm (ART) stands out among the rest easily. If you are into primes or a new-found Fan of Sigma’s ART lenses, this lens is a must-get.

Sigma had proven to the world that they had beefed up their manufacturing consistency after the company went under the “Sigma Global Vision“, the company had sold lenses like hot cakes while churning out award-winning lenses after lenses. This is the brand to watch.

– Thanks Melvin, Cindy & Chester for taking time out and went under the hot sun for the new Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM (ART).
– Thanks to Trisha Lim for all the Behind-the-Scenes photos for this Article.
– Special Thanks to Sigma Marketing (Singapore) for letting us have the lens before anyone else did in Singapore.

Ed.

Read my other reviews of Sigma Equipments here.
Buy Your Sigma Lenses here.

More Behind-the-Scenes Photos
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
** Sigma had re-organized their whole lens line into 3 category.
They are “C” Lens, “A” Lens & “S” Lens.

C Lens = Contemporary Lens Line
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Featuring the very latest technology, and combining optical performance with compactness, Sigma’s high-performance Contemporary line covers a wide range of needs. Lenses in this category are Standard zoom lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, high-magnification zoom lenses.

A Lens = Art Lens Line
c02_a_img
Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, Sigma’s Art line delivers high-level artistic expression. Lenses in this category are Large-aperture prime lenses, wide-angle lenses, ultra-wide-angle lenses, macro lenses, fisheye lenses.

S Lens – Sports Lens Line
c02_s_img
While offering sophisticated optical performance and expressiveness, SigmaSports line lenses deliver high action-capture performance, enabling photographers to get exactly the shots they want. Lenses in this category are Telephoto lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, super telephoto lenses, super telephoto zoom lenses.

SIGMA-NEW-LOGO
Sigma Marketing Singapore Pte Ltd. is a subsidiary of Sigma Japan Corporation.

For more information, please visit http://www.sigma-global.com

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Singapore National Award Winner Revealed for 2015 Sony World Photography Awards

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Singapore National Award Winner Revealed for 2015 Sony World Photography Awards

Singapore PanoramaPhoto: © Chua Boon Kiat Jansen, 1st Place, Singapore National Award, 2015 Sony World Photography Awards

* Single best photograph taken by a Singaporean photographer discovered by world’s biggest photography competition

* Photographer will be flown to London to attend Sony World Photography Awards gala ceremony and image will be exhibited at Somerset House, London, 24 April to 10 May 2015

17th March 2015, Singapore/ Asia Pacific – Singaporean photographer Chua Boon Kiat Jansen is today named as the winner of the Singapore National Award as part of the prestigious 2015 Sony World Photography Awards.

Chua’s winning image “Douce enfance” was chosen as the single best photograph taken by a Singapore photographer entered into any of the ten Open categories of the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards, the world’s biggest photography competition.

Chua, a client consultant and keen amateur photographer who only began shooting seriously last year, has won a Sony α7 camera. He will also be flown to London to attend the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards gala ceremony on 23 April 2015, and his winning photograph will be shown as part of the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards exhibition at Somerset House, London from 24 April to 10 May 2015.

Talking about his win, Chua commented, “Winning this award means the world to me. Being a new photographer, I am constantly awed by many images shared by people on social media. Never have I dreamt that my piece would emerge as a winner this year. Deep down, there is still much uncertainty about many aspects of photography, and I know there are still lots to improve on. This award ascertained the approach I have undertaken, and I will continue to work even harder to achieve greater heights with my photography, and hopefully produce better images in the future.”

Describing the image, he said, “Taken from the Bay East Garden of Gardens by the Bay, this is a panoramic view of the modern Marina Bay Waterfront. My original intention was to capture a sunset that day, but it started raining. I managed to find a shelter and decided to wait out the rain. Thankfully, the rained stopped just in time for me to catch the last moments of the fast fading blue hours. This composite image is a panoramic stitch-up 15 frames, each with 3 exposure digitally blended.”

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Runner up positions for the Singapore National Award were given to:
* 2nd place – David Wirawan
* 3rd place – Heng Wang Tan

The winners of all 54 National Awards were announced today by the Sony World Photography Awards. The National Awards programme honours and rewards the best single image taken by a local photographer and runs across the world from Argentina to Australia. It is open to photographers of all abilities. To see all the winning images, please go to www.worldphoto.org.

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About World Photography Organisation (WPO)
WPO is a home where photography is celebrated and the art of the photographer is recognised. Working with professional, enthusiast and student photographers alike, the World Photography Organisation provides a global network across the photographic industry to not only to raise the level of conversation around the subject, but to increase awareness and appreciation of this artform. WPO hosts a year-round portfolio of industry and public events including: Sony World Photography Awards, the world’s largest photography competition and accompanying global exhibition; the World Photography Student Focus Programme, inspiring and working with the next generation of photographers, and Photo Shanghai, Asia Pacific’s premier art fair dedicated to photography. In addition, WPO has a thriving online presence via its website, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and addresses the industry’s latest issues in its monthly online publication, The Magazine. For more information please visit www.worldphoto.org

About Sony Corporation
Sony Corporation is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, game, communications, key device and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, computer entertainment and on-line businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be the leading electronics and entertainment company in the world. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of approximately US$75 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. Sony Global Web Site: http://www.sony.net/

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Tokina AT-X 11-20mm F2.8 (IF) PRO DX

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Tokina AT-X 11-20mm F2.8 (IF) PRO DX
– Wider Versatility meets Practicality
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Photo: Editor with the NEW Tokina AT-X 11-20mm F2.8 (IF) PRO DX mounted on his NEW Nikon D5500.

17th March 2015, Singapore – Tokina surprised us with their latest wide angle zoom lens in the form of Tokina AT-X 11-20mm F2.8 (IF) PRO DX. On first look, the focal range 11-20mm F2.8 seems pretty direct in telling us that this is designed and made as the bigger brother of the award-winning AT-X 11-16 F2.8 with the added range, but at the meantime, it looks uncannily alike to the AT-X 12-28 F4 or the older award-winning AT-X 12-24mm F4 MarkII. While the industry speculates what exactly is Tokina up to, we decided to review the lens for ourselves.

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Photo: (L) Tokina 12-24mm F4 II & (R) Tokina 11-20mm F2.8, same same?
Definitely not.

To start things off, and for those new to Tokina, the lens barrel was made with the company’s proven thermal compound that are designed withstand most elements for both outdoor and indoor use. Although Tokina had retained most of the design cue of their releases, this is something that Tokina fans can relate to – Tokina is not giving fanciful designs but a lens that is designed for easy handling and practicality. Personally I like Tokina’s One-Touch Focus Clutch Mechanism since I gotten my first Tokina lens in 2010. The user can switch between Auto-focus and Manual-focus by pulling or pushing the focusing ring forward or backwards.

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Photo: The NEW Tokina 11-20mm F2.8 mounted on my Nikon D5500.

The new 11-20mm F2.8 has some interesting “changes”. The lens accepts 82mm filters (most Tokina Lens are on 77mm), and the lens is a little “fatter” now at 89mm x 92mm and with that, the lens gained a little weight at 560gm. This is really manageable as when I took it out for this review, I had hand held the lens mounted with my Nikon D5500 for almost 3.5 hours without feeling that my arms are falling off. On the glass, there are new advancements. The 11-20mm has 3 aspherical lens elements (one of the 3 is a PMO hybrid) that produce super contrasty and sharp images while correcting distortions at the same time. If that is not enough, Tokina also added 3 SD (anti-dispersion) glass elements to reduce CA to a negligible concern.

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Photo: Useable F2.8 with interesting bokehs from the 9 blades aperture.

Other goodies remain largely the same. Made as a 9 blader (aperture) with a minimum opening of F22 to a wide F2.8, it starts focusing from 28cm to the front .Standard issue includes the Tokina’s “Advance Multi-Layer” lens coating on the front element and lastly, it has a good magnification of 1:8.62. (Tips: means you can shoot at small aperture, then crop an insane amount off the photo and your photo will still be sharp and usable).

I brought the Tokina 11-20mm out and visited an old estate and tried putting it through its paces. Check out the photos below. All photos was adjusted for the horizontal slant, crop and watermarks. Everything is else what you get from the camera direct.

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Photo: The near fish-eye range creates very interesting perspectives if you know what you are doing. Corner to corner sharpness is evident without any signs of turning soft.

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Photo: As the skies suddenly turns gloomy dark, time for some effects. Check out the contrasts.

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Photo: You really need an Ultra Wide Angle lens to do this. The 11-20mm is perfect if you wish to shoot photos like this.

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Photo: The typical curving distortion that most wide angle lenses suffers are very negligible on the new Tokina 11-20mm. I am impressed!

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Photo: Ultra Wide is not Everything, but you need an Ultra Wide to do overview shots like this.


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Photo: Street Photography that requires a scene + subject? The Tokina 11-20mm is perfect.

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Photo: Don’t just shoot the building, shoot the skies too. No need to squeeze, 11mm got them all.

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Photo: Again, for corner to corner sharpness and contrast.

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Photo: Wide is the New game.

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Photo: shortly after this shot, the rain came down hard.

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Photo: Shooting building will be easy and fun. Note: the plane is fake.

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Photo: Just one last example of how the New Tokina 11-20mm can be fun and functional at the same time.

At 11mm (or 16.5mm on FX/Full Frame/35mm) this lens will be excellent for interior shoot, landscape, cityscape and at the tele end of 20mm (or 30mm on FX/Full Frame/35mm); this lens is also excellent for street photography or close-range portraits, a very versatile lens. Well built and importantly, it produces high-quality ultra-wide angle images for APS-C cameras. Comfortable to handle and Very easy on the wallet, get yours today!

– Ed

Buy Your Tokina AT-X 11-20mm F2.8 PRO DX here.
For More information click here.

Special Thanks to:
Cathay Photo for sponsoring the Lens.
Trisha Lim for Behind-the-Scene coverage.

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Nikon D5500 Review – By Trisha Lim

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Nikon D5500 Review
– By Guest Reviewer Trisha Lim
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13th March 2015, Singapore – Nikon’s latest entry DSLR for the advance users came in the form of D5500 – which is the first Nikon DX-format (APS-C) DSLR that is equipped with a “touch-screen-vari-angle monitor” with direct wi-fi connectivity.  We were pretty excited when we saw the specs and decided to review the camera. And to keep things “layman” around here, we decided to invite a guest reviewer, Miss Trisha Lim – an event photographer to try out the D5500. If you ended up here while looking for technical details for the D5500, please visit Nikon’s site.  We are more interested in how the camera feels & operates over here. 🙂 Let’s hear from what Trisha what she has to say about the new Nikon D5500.

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The Nikon D5500
– words by Trisha Lim

First Impression & handling:
The Nikon D5500 seems tiny on first look. However, the grip has a deep recess that allows me to hold the camera comfortably as well as confidently. It feels really good while giving me a firm grippy feeling. As an end-user, this is important to me, I want to hold and use a camera that gives me the right “feel”. The camera also feels that it can take abuse as it is very well put together, the build is solid yet super light and compact at the same time. To be honest, it does not feel cheap at all.

The Nikon D5500 is almost weightless at 470gm, means this will be a great camera for almost daily and general use – including travel. The compact size (124 x 97 x 70 mm) makes it appealing to use especially when I do full-day events. As most event photographers will agree with me, the longer we hold the camera, the “heavier” it becomes. This feather-weight DSLR will be nice to use or for those who believes in mid-range to pro-range DSLR, the Nikon D5500 is a good camera to have it in your gear bag as a backup camera.

The layout of the buttons are easy to navigate and located mostly at the right places which makes it easy to change settings or to find a certain function. The ergonomics fits the smallest of hands and this is a plus point to me.

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Operations – although made and marketed as an advanced-users’ DSLR, the D5500 is packed with some serious specs. The 24.2mp CMOS sensor + Expeed 4 processor engine combo promises high-resolution & quality images. The 39-points focusing is fast and it has a continuous shutter of 5fps which is considered very fast for DSLR of this class. (Nikon Multi-CAM 4800DX autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection, 39 focus points (including 9 cross-type sensors) The maximum shutter speed is 1/4000 which is pretty standard, but with all the goodies mentioned earlier, the D5500 is like a “little monster in disguise”.

Another area that I like was the really quiet shutter, and this is extremely helpful especially when I am shooting a corporate seminar or talk, we have to be quiet. Just imagine how the machine-gun-like sound of the D4s will be in a talk when the whole conference room is in complete silence except for the speaker.

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The Nikon D5500’s ISO handling is pretty good too. It has a peak range of 25,600 which allows me to shoot at higher shutter speed in “no-flash” situations. Function wise, I like it that the D5500 has lots of interesting built-in shooting mode which will be useful for those starting out in photography or for the Pro on an Off Day to play with without having to give too much thoughts on the settings. I copied the modes from Nikon’s site for your quick reference.
*Auto modes (auto; auto, flash off); programmed auto with flexible program (P); shutter-priority auto (S); aperture-priority auto (A); manual (M); scene modes (portrait; landscape; child; sports; close up; night portrait; night landscape; party/indoor; beach/snow; sunset; dusk/dawn; pet portrait; candlelight; blossom; autumn colors; food); special effects modes (night vision; super vivid; pop; photo illustration; toy camera effect; miniature effect; selective color; silhouette; high key; low key)

That’s quite a handful isn’t it? If that is not enough, even the Flash had been pimped up.

*Auto, portrait, child, close-up, night portrait, party/indoor, pet portrait, vivid, pop, photo illustration, toy camera effect: Auto flash with auto pop-up
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Other standard functions (for Nikon) like the proven Matrix Metering, WB bracketing and everything else you can think of from the previous D5XXX models are all present – except that it had only got better. The vari-angle screen is pretty useful and wide range of applications and Nikon had up the ante by making it a touch screen too. The Wi-Fi was another perk – especially for selfie-lovers who can use the light & compact D5500 to take selfies with the vari-angle screen and then touch-screen to focus and shoot. Now don’t compare your smartphone selfie photos here, we are talking about a selfie image that is from a 24.2mp camera which you can print the photos to cover a living room wall.

In summary, the Nikon D5500 (along with its specs) is a really fun and competent DSLR to have for all photographers from all levels. It’s functional while fun to use at the same time. Although the editor did not share with me about the retail price of the D5500, I reckon the price will be very reasonable. I will be making my order for the Nikon D5500, what about you?

– Trisha Lim. 

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Editor’s Note:
That was a satisfied review from our Guest Reviewer; Miss. Trisha Lim. Personally, I find he that the Nikon D5500 is value for money and another great camera added to the Nikon family. These days when consumers are demanding more for their money, Nikon is definitely listening to its consumers of what they wants and Nikon give them what they want. Good job Nikon!

About Nikon
Nikon. At the Heart of the Image. Nikon is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognised for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX compact digital cameras; Nikon sports optics as well as the Nikon 1 advanced cameras with interchangeable lens system in over 50 countries.

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Travelling with the Leica T by Michael Lee

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Travelling with the Leica T – by Michael Lee.
(Originally posted here.)
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09th March 2015, Singapore – Experience the natural and human landscapes spanning across Asia and Africa with Michael Lee, shot entirely on the Leica T Camera System in China, Cambodia, Bhutan, Malaysia and Namibia.

“Travel Photography is a documentary of a journey through which the traveller expresses his own perspective of a specific time, place, land, its people and culture. Images captured in one location fills one with inspiration for the next journey. I believe that with an appreciation of nature’s beauty and a strong understanding of the local community, making that important connection with them will enable one to photograph an outstanding image that communicates beyond one’s technical capability.”

Experience “Travelling with the Leica T” as we see life in different landscapes & culture with Master Photographer (MPAUK), Michael Lee. His specialties include street candid, cultural & landscape photography and of course, travel photography. His respect for people and cultures helps generate new ideas in his workshops & tours to see Asia in its purest form.

Period:
January – March 2015

Venue:
Leica Store@Raffles Hotel Arcade
328 North Bridge Road
#01-18, Singapore 188719

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Photos from “Travelling with the Leica T” exhibition by Michael Lee at Leica Store Singapore @ Raffles Hotel Arcade is available for sale at SGD450 each, with profits of 100% going towards PHOTOkidz – a volunteer-based program for under-served children and youth organizations that encourages creativity, promotes communication skills and develops confidence in children at Bhutan, Cambodia and Indonesia through photography.

Let’s support the youth development who share our passion of photography. For more information, please email raffles@leica-store.sg or call +65 6336-9555.

http://www.leica-store.sg/travelling-leica-t/

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PRICE ANNOUNCED: Nikon D810 kit and Spring 2015 COOLPIX Range‏

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PRICE ANNOUNCED: Nikon D810 kit and Spring 2015 COOLPIX Range‏

Nikon D810 – Best of Both Worlds
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New 36.3-megapixel Nikon D810 Boasts the Versatility and Performance for Stunning Shots

05th March 2015, Singapore – Nikon is pleased to announce the launch of the following new products starting sales today.

* Please note that the Nikon COOLPIX AW130 will only be available mid/end March 2015.

List prices after the jump.

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Stock will be available at all Nikon authorised dealers today, 5 March 2015 at the following prices:

  • D810 + AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR (Kit set) – SGD$ 5,688
  • COOLPIX S3700 (Silver, Black, Red, Pink, Blue) – SGD$ 239
  • COOLPIX S7000 (Black, White, Gold) – SGD$ 339
  • COOLPIX L840 (Black, Red) – SGD$ 399
  • COOLPIX AW130 (Black, Blue, Orange, Green) – SGD$ 529 (available mid/end March 2015)
  • COOLPIX P610 (Black, Red) – SGD$ 689

    Interested parties are advised to call their preferred dealers before make a trip down.

    Or simply call our Accredited Merchants here.

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My Favourite Moments Photography Contest 2015

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My Favourite Moments Photography Contest 2015
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05th March 2015, Singpapore – Good news to all ! Celebrate your Lunar New Year and stand a chance to win from over $500 worth of GIFT VOUCHERS from our Accredited Merchant RedDotPhoto!!

All you need to do is to take part in RedDotPhoto Lunar New Year Photo Competition and submit photo entries of “My Favourite Moments”!

So bring along your camera during visiting and start snapping away !!

PRIZES
1st Prize – $288 Gift Voucher
2nd Prize – $188 Gift Voucher
2nd Prize – $88 Gift Voucher

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To Enter
Sign up for a Red Dot Photo forum account (if you don’t yet have one)

  1. Submit your photo as a reply to this thread
  2. That’s it!
  3. Alternatively, you can also email to shafiq@reddotphoto.com.sg
– Upon submission, we will post your photo on RedDotPhoto’s Facebook Page.
– The number of Facebook ‘likes’ each photo gets will influence the final decision, so look out for your photo and get your friends to like it!

The deadline for submission is Tuesday, 31st March 2015, 2359hrs.

Rules & Regulations:
1) The Lunar New Year Photo Competition is open to entrants of all skill levels.
2) All participants agree to grant Red Dot Photo a license to reproduce and publish winning entries. All copyright remains vested in the participants.
3) Each submitted photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken by the contest entrant. Any discrepancy in entrant’s particulars may lead to disqualification at the discretion of the organiser.

Format
1) Submissions must be:
– JPEG format
– Recommended 1200px on the long edge
2) Every contestant may submit as many entry (unless otherwise informed)
3) Staff and judges are not responsible for loss or any damage to photographic submissions.

This exciting competition is organized by Red Dot Photo,
Proudly sponsored by Chromage, Lumia & Maha Powerex
& Supported by Ourshutterjourney.com

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Spoiled for Choice: Sony α E-mount Family Grows with Four Brand-New Full-Frame Lenses plus Two Full-Frame Converters

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Spoiled for Choice: Sony α E-mount Family Grows with Four Brand-New Full-Frame Lenses plus Two Full-Frame Converters

Lens Series (2)

* Zeiss® Distagon T* FE 35mm F1.4 ZA (SEL35F14Z) Full-frame Wide-angle Lens
* FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS (SEL90M28G) Full-frame Mid-telephoto Macro G Lens
* FE 24-240mm F3.5-6.3 OSS (SEL24240) Full-frame Zoom 10x Lens
* FE 28mm F2 (SEL28F20) Full-frame Wide-angle Prime Lens
* SEL057FEC Fisheye Converter and SEL075UWC Ultra-wide Converter for the SEL28F20
* VCL-ECU2/VCL-ECF2 Ultra-wide & Fisheye converters (APS-C)

5th March 2015, Singapore – Serious photographers now have the opportunity to explore even more creative possibilities with four brand-new Full-frame α E-mount lenses for Sony’s acclaimed family of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.

From soulful portraits, dramatic landscapes and exquisite macro shots to fast-moving action, travel and everyday shooting – the expanded E-mount range has every situation covered. The quartet of premium lenses is joined by a further four lens converters – two of them full frame – making it easier to capture dramatic ultra-wide or fisheye perspectives.

Zeiss® Distagon T* FE 35mm F1.4 ZA (SEL35F14Z) Full-frame Wide-angle Lens

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Legendary ZEISS® optical performance is showcased in this Full-frame wide angle prime that’s a superior choice for uncompromising professionals and enthusiasts wanting to craft portraits, day-to-day snapshots and night scenes.

Offering a minimum focusing distance of just 0.3m, the SEL35F14Z is also the first E-mount lens to provide a bright F1.4 aperture constructed with 9 blades: ideal for low-light conditions and super smooth bokeh (quality of the out-of-focus areas).

SEL35F14Z Sample Image (3)

Stunning corner-to-corner sharpness – even at maximum aperture – is assured by an advanced optical design that features aspherical elements including one Sony AA (Advanced Aspherical) element. Peerless optical performance is further assured by the ZEISS® T* coating that suppresses flare and ghosting for natural colour reproduction and excellent contrast.

Whether you’re shooting movies or stills, the Direct Drive SSM (DDSSM) system enables fast and whisper-quiet precision focusing. A dedicated aperture ring can be set for smooth, continuous operation – ideal for movie-makers – or with click-stops to provide tactile feedback when shooting stills. The dust and moisture resistant design ensures reliable operation when shooting outdoors.

 

FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS (SEL90M28G) Full-frame Mid-telephoto Macro G Lens

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Tailor-made for the Macro or Still-life photographer in mind, the SEL90M28G delivers an impressive blend of clarity and exceptionally smooth bokeh – thanks to careful control of spherical aberration – that’s a signature of every G Lens. The E-mount line-up’s first mid-telephoto macro also features built in Optical SteadyShot™ (OSS) image stabilisation, allowing pin-sharp images at up to 1:1 magnification even when shooting handheld making it a perfect lens for both Macro or Portrait Photography.

Sample Image (3)

The smooth, quiet Direct Drive SSM (DDSSM) mechanism drives two ‘floating’ focus groups independently, ensuring extremely precise focus positioning that’s crucial for macro photography.

The lens uses an Internal Focusing mechanism that ensures no protrusions – a big plus when you’re just centimetres from your subject during macro shooting. There’s also a focus hold button and sliding focus ring that instantly switches between manual and auto focus. Resistance to dust and moisture helps ensure dependable performance when you’re shooting detail-packed close-ups of insects and wildlife.

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FE 24-240mm F3.5-6.3 OSS (SEL24240) 10x Full-frame Zoom Lens
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The SEL24240 covers a whole range from Wide-angle to Telephoto and gives you the ability to cover a wide range of photography genres from landscapes and everyday portraits to sports and action scenes. Its huge 24-240mm focal length range (10x optical zoom) makes this Full-frame tele-zoom an ideal travel partner.

The advanced design includes five aspherical elements and one ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element, contributing to excellent optical performance in a compact, easy-to-handle body. Serious photographers’ needs are catered for with an advanced linear motor that drives the focusing mechanism for quick, smooth response throughout the generous zoom range.

SEL24240 Sample Image (4)

Built-in Optical SteadyShot™ (OSS) image stabilisation is a welcome addition for handheld telephoto shots and low-light scenes at longer shutter speeds. Like every new FE (Full-frame E-mount) lens, the SEL24240 features a dust and moisture resistant design.

FE 28mm F2 (SEL28F20) Full-frame Wide-angle Prime Lens

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An ideal second lens to supplement every photographer’s basic lens kit, this Full-frame 28mm wide-angle prime features a bright F2.0 maximum aperture that’s ideal for handheld shooting in low light.

Lightweight, compact and designed to resist dust and moisture, the lens makes a beautifully-proportioned match for Sony’s acclaimed α7 series Full-frame camera bodies, with a high-grade aluminium finish adding instant visual appeal.

SEL28F20_A7 II (6)

The SEL28F20 features a 9-blade circular aperture for smoother bokeh, three aspherical lens elements – including one AA (Advanced Aspherical) element – and two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements for excellent edge-to-edge sharpness. All lens surfaces are multi-coated to suppress flare and ghosting.

The Internal Focusing mechanism is driven by an advanced linear actuator for whisper-quiet AF, ensuring no lens protrusion when focusing.

SEL075UWC (1)
Image: SEL075UWC Ultra-wide Converter

SEL057FEC (4)
Image: SEL057FEC Fisheye Converter

For even wider perspectives, the optional SEL075UWC Ultra-wide Converter and SEL057FEC Fisheye Converter respectively increase the viewing angle to 21mm or 16mm fisheye with full 180° coverage. The maximum aperture of each converter is F2.8 and F3.5 respectively when mounted on the SEL28F20. In a first for α lens converters, corresponding EXIF data is generated with either converter attached to the lens.

VCL-ECU2 Ultra-wide and VCL-ECF2 Fisheye APS-C converters

VCL-ECF2 with SEL20F28 VCL-ECU2 with SEL20F28

There’s no need to compromise optical performance when exploring extreme wide-angle and fisheye perspective effects.

The VCL-ECU2 adapter is compatible with the SEL16F28 16mm F2.8 and SEL20F28 20mm F2.8 wide angle (APS-C) lenses, boosting ultra-wide angle performance to 12mm (with SEL16F28) or 16 mm (SEL20F28). The VCL-ECF2 Fisheye Converter creates exaggerated perspective effect, with a full 180 degree field of view for the SEL16F28, and 133 degrees for the SEL20F28. Each converter sports a smart new black finish.

Software updates for E-mount lenses
Available now, a new software update enhances lens functionality for selected current E-mount lens models. There will also be a software update for these newly-announced FE lens models in early March 2015. Details will be available at http://www.sony.com.sg/section/support.

The SEL24240 Full-frame Zoom Lens will be available all Sony Stores, Sony Centres and selected Sony authorised dealers from 5 March 2015 onwards at a recommended retail price of S$1,369. The SEL35F14Z, SEL90M28G and SEL28F20 E-mount lenses, as well as the SEL075UWC, SEL057FEC, VCL-ECU2 and VCL-ECF2 lens converters will be available from March 2015 onwards.

Specifications Sheet

– SEL35F14Z SEL90M28G SEL24240 SEL28F20
35mm equiv. focal length (when attached to APS-C body)
52.5mm 135mm 36-360mm 42mm

– Max. magnification ratio (x) 0.18 1.0 0.27 0.13

– Min. focus 0.3m 28cm 0.5m (Wide) – 0.8m (Tele) 29cm

– Filter dia. 72 mm 62 mm 72 mm 49 mm

– Dimensions
(Dia. x L) 78.5 x 112 mm 79 x 130.5 mm 80.5mm x 118.5mm 64 x 60mm

– Weight (approx.) 630g 602g 780g 200g

– Supplied accessories Front cap (Φ72㎜), Rear cap, Hood, Case Front cap (Φ62㎜), Rear cap, Hood, Case Front cap (Φ 72㎜), Rear cap, Hood Front cap (Φ 49㎜) Rear cap, Hood

– Colour Black Black Black Black
About Sony Electronics (Singapore) & Sony South East Asia
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Sony Electronics (Singapore) was established on 1st October 1999 with business activities comprising engineering and manufacturing, sales and marketing, and logistics and information systems. As part of Sony Electronics (Singapore), Sony South East Asia is responsible for the marketing and sales of consumer products in Singapore, as well as for business and professional products in Singapore and other countries in the South East Asia region. It also handles export business for consumer products from Singapore to various parts of Asia. Since establishing our presence in Singapore in 1973, we have grown steadily over the years to become a leader in the consumer electronics market. For more information on Sony’s products and services in Singapore, please visit http://www.sony.com.sg/


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