Nikon D90 DSLR 18-105mm VR Kit
Nikon D90 DSLR 18-105mm VR Kit
The D90 is in the house and the general consensus is that it offers some significant improvemets over the excellent D80. To begin, the D90 has a 12.3 MP CMOS sensor while the D80 has a 10.2 MP CCD sensor. A CMOS (complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) is a sensor touted for its faster operating speed and lower power consumption when compared to a CCD sensor.
The D90 has added a sensor cleaning system and increases maximum ISO sensitivity to 6400 as compared to the D80's 3200. Frames per second (fps) has stepped up from 3 in the D80 to 4.5 in the D90. The LCD monitor on the D90 is a larger 3" versus the D80's 2.5." Add Movie Mode and Live View in the same size body as the D80 and it is easy to see why some Nikon owners might be swayed to move up to a D90.
In various blogs I have seen much debate about how useful it is to have a video capability in a DSLR. There seems to be as many photographers for as against. The D90 can only take 5 minutes of video and while the results are not bad, they in no way match the video capability of a camcorder. On the other hand, having video capability could be useful for that rare moment when you come face to face with Big Foot.
There also seems to be two camps when it comes to Live View. I think it is best to consider these recent innovations as more bells and whistles. It can't hurt to have them available and I'm told that these features do not increase the cost of the camera in any significant way.
Bottom line, the D90 is an improvement when compared to the outstanding D80 and offers users more versatility - not a bad thing if you think about it.
Nikon D90 DSLR 18-105mm VR Kit - In Stock $1,299.99
Nikon D90 Body Only - In stock Now! - $999.99
"Prices and stock availability posted in this blog are subject to change."Labels: cameras, Nikon, Nikon D90, products, SLR
 
Good Photographers are Good Editors
Good Photographers are Good Editors
Let's imagine that you have three good photos and seven mediocre ones. If you show all ten to someone they will comment on the good ones but walk away with the impression that you are not really that good a photographer. Maybe those three good ones were just luck.
If you show only the three good photos the viewer will walk away thinking that you are a good photographer because you haven't shown them anything to prove you are not.
If you are tough on yourself when it comes to editing your own pictures it will not only improve your presentation to others but you will fall in love with each jewel you have isolated as a good picture and be inspired to build on that small, tight group of excellent images.
Also, when you are out and about with your camera, you will start to develop a better idea of what to take and what not to...you are in effect editing in the moment of shooting. Of course, in these wonderful digital times it hurts nothing to snap away with abandon. Sometimes great shots are captured accidentally.
You might be thinking 'how will I know if a picture is good or bad?' Admittedly, some subjective, "artistic" interpretation comes into play but beyond this are some time honored rules of thumb for judging a photo's quality.
1. Is the photo exposed well, is it too dark or too light? Can it be improved in Photoshop?
2. Is it in focus and if not why not? Did you move or use too slow a shutter speed or the wrong aperture? Analyze and learn from mistakes!
3. Does the composition work or detract from the picture? Have you applied the "golden rule of thirds?" Is the eye drawn in the picture by an S curve or the arrangement of elements? Can the picture be cropped to enhance balance and composition? That said, remember that some great photos break the rules but are great never-the-less.
4. Does the picture say anything/mean anything to you? If it speaks to you, it very probably will communicate to others. This is the intangible aspect of photography but when the content is properly exposed, well composed and uniquely interesting...you are no doubt looking at a good picture.
5. Finally, when you show your photos certain images will wind up getting the most acclaim and these will no doubt be good candidates upon which you should begin to build your portfolio.
If you take enough pictures and are tough enough on your self eventually you will be editing to weed out the good pictures from the great ones. You are now at a new level. You might decide to take them around to galleries to try to get a show. This is the time to build a tough skin!
You can minimize the pain of rejection by being familiar with what a gallery has shown in the past. Chances are that if you have felt moved by other shows exhibited in a particular gallery and your work is similar it is more likely to be accepted.
But exhibiting in a gallery need not be your goal. Some people are simply after the mind set that comes with looking for photos. Some are writing an image poem about their own lives. If they do it well, it will be a great source of pleasure to themselves, their family and friends for years to come.
The bottom line is that the process of editing not only focuses your vision, it enhances the impact of your work as a whole and ultimately sharpens your photographic eye.Labels: editing, how-to
Buying a Camcorder - What you need to know
Buying a Camcorder - What you need to know
Before you consider the camcorder features you need you must decide which type of storage or capture method is best for your intended purpose. The days of VHS and Hi8 tapes are gone. These were analog capture systems that had problems such as drop-outs, stretch and loss of resolution with each generation of copy. Along came digital capture - a sturdier and more reliable capture media with phenomenal advantages for editing and archiving. Currently, there are four types of digital storage: Digital Tape, DVD, Hard Drive and Flash. All of these capture methods represent a quantum leap forward.
Digital Video Tape
MiniDV is far superior to analog tape. It is a very versatile, high quality recording format enabling transfer via IEEE 1394 (also known as Fire Wire and I-link) and because it is recorded digitally onto tape it can be edited without signal loss. This format was a big improvement over analog formats such as Video8, Hi8, VHS and VHS-C.
MiniDV has become a standard for home and semi-professional video production. At present, it offers the highest quality of any of the recordable storage types. However, tape does have some short comings - it is sensitive to moisture, strong magnetic fields, can break and requires real time transfers to a computer for storage or editing.
DVD
DVD (digital video disk) is a consumer format removable disk that can be played back on most home DVD players and computer DVD drives. The DVD disks used in camcorders are small 8-cm disks which are sometimes referred to as MiniDVDs. They are relatively cheap, can be played back in Blu-ray players and are a handy back-up media that can be stored separately from the camcorder - direct archiving. On the down side, recorded at the highest quality the disks only holds 20 to 30 minutes of video per side for a total recording length of one hour.
HDVD and Blu-ray disks are newer DVD formats offering some improvement in quality to the standard DVD.
Hard Drive
HDD (Hard Disk Drive) camcorders record digitally onto an internal hard disk drive similar to a home computer. This approach lets you back up your recorded video onto your computer's hard drive for archiving, viewing and editing. Capacities of these hard disk drives range form 30 GB to 120 GB - enough space for 14 plus hours of high quality recording. HDD can be damaged from shock or fast movement and can fail with low atmospheric pressure or when used in altitudes higher than 10,000 feet.
Flash Memory
Flash memory such as SD/SDHC and Memory Stick is probably the future for camcorder storage. It is less expensive than hard drive storage and because it is Solid State with no moving parts it is a very rugged storage method - resistant to shock, pressure and temperature extremes and even immersion in water. An 8GB card will record 55 minutes of video.
The Latest Improvements to the Four Storage Types
DVD, Hard Drive and Flash Memory
have been further improved with the introduction of AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition). This is a High-Definition tape-less consumer format using an MPEG-4 compression enabling a much faster transfer of data to the computer when compared to DV and HDV camcorders which require a Firewire connection and specialized capturing software. DVD like menu navigation makes AVCHD a more attractive format for consumer use. AVCHD can be edited but requires a fast computer with a multi-core.
If you have a Mac with iMovie '08, it will import AVCHD footage and convert it to Apple Intermediate Codec so you can edit. The latest versions of Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro, Corel's Ulead Video Studeo 11 Plus, Corel's Ulead DVD MovieFactory 6, Pinnacle's Studio Plus 11 & 12, AVID Xpress Pro, Avid Media Composer and Canopus' Edius Pro 4.5 also support AVCHD.
MiniDV is now available as HDV (High Definition Video) which is an improved recording format for MiniDV magnetic tapes using MPEG-2 video compression. This format records higher quality video compared to AVCHD.
Sony HDR-TG1 High Definition Handycam Camcorder
 This is the world's smallest Full HD Camcorder! The HDR-TG1 Handycam records Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution video from a lightweight slim body crafted from pure titanium.
It records to convenient Memory Stick Pro Duo media. Sony's ClearVid CMOS Sensor and BIONZ image processor provide spectacular video and stunning 4.0 megapixel still images.
The Sony HDR-TG1 Handycam weighs only 8 ounces without battery. Features include Face Detection, 2.7" Wide Hybrid Touch Panel Clear Photo LCD, Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization, 10x Optical/20x Digital Zoom, Quick On feature, Dolby Digital 5.1ch Sound Recording and Smooth Slow Recording.
A Dual Record feature gives you the ability to capture still images directly to Memory Stick Duo media while recording video in High Definition. This camcorder even has a built in flash!
The list of advanced features incorporated in this tiny camcorder are remarkable. Check out the HDR-TG1 page for a complete description of its capabilities.
Sony HDR-TG1 Camcorder - was $799.99 now $699.99
Sony DCR-VX2100 Mini DV Handycam Camcorder 
Want one of the best prosumer Camcorders currently available? Here it is!
The VX2100 utilizes a new Advanced HAD progressive scan CCD technology which dramatically improves illumination, delivering superior low-light performance without the use of infrared. By increasing the three CCD's sensitivity to light, clearer, brighter video with more lifelike color can be captured, even when recording in dimly lit environments.
Its aspherical lens and duel-position neutral density filter minimize distortion from standard spherical lenses and compensates for varying lighting situations such as studio lights or direct sunlight.
The VX2100 includes a built-in lens cap to protect the enhanced optics package, manual audio control and PCM Digital Stereo Audio in 12 and 16-bit modes.
Other features include a manual focus and zoom ring, built-in color bar generator, 16:9 wide screen recording capability, intelligent accessory shoe, both 12x optical and 48x digital zoom, advanced optical SteadyShot picture stabilization and up to seven hours of operation with the optional NP-F960 InfoLithium battery.
Sony DCR-VX2100 MiniDV Camcorder - was $2,299.99 now $2,199.99
"Prices and stock availability posted in this blog are subject to change."
Labels: camcorder, products
New Sony Products
Recently Sony announced the addition of a few brand new products, namely the new Sony Alpha A900 24.6MP Digital SLR, HDR-FX1000 Camcorder and the new HVL-F58AM FLASH. Here at Berger-Bros we are proud to announce that we are now selling the HVL-F58AM and are now taking pre-orders on the HDR-FX1000 and Sony Alpha A900. You can call our stores to pre-order or use the product pages here on the site to pre-order order your products. Please note that all pre-orders are on a first-come-first-serve basis and pre-ordering is one of the sure ways to makes sure you can receive such hot items that easily clear our shelves so dont delay...and don't worry, nothing is charged to your card until we your item coming in so feel free to call and save the time and money by ordering through us today!
Check out the details of the new products below: Sony Alpha A900 24.6MP Digital SLR
35mm full frame 24.6MP Exmor CMOS image sensor
The A900 features a 35mm full frame Exmor CMOS image sensor that is approximately 2.35x larger than the APS-C sized sensors found in many DSLR cameras. The result is a larger capture area, improved wide angle performance, and tighter depth of field control. In addition, its 24.6MP resolution maximizes the resolving power of your existing lenses and delivers sharper, higher contrast photos. SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization:
Building on years of expertise, Sony has developed the world’s first body-integrated image stabilization solution for a full frame DSLR1. The SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilizer actually shifts the image sensor to compensate for camera shake without sacrificing image quality. The compensation effect is equal to as many as four shutter speed steps, giving you more creative freedom when shooting in low light. And, because it is integrated into the camera body, SteadyShot INSIDE technology works with all compatible ? (alpha)system lenses. Dual BIONZ processors for up to fast 5fps performance:
The A900 harnesses the power of Dual BIONZ image processing engines to deliver true-to-life images with ultra-low noise and continuous shooting at up to 5 fps. Ultra bright, 100% coverage glass pentaprism viewfinder
A large, ultra bright glass pentaprism viewfinder provides you with amazing clarity and high optical performance for tighter focus control. In addition, it offers viewfinder magnification of 0.74x, allowing you to see an image nearer to its actual size, as well as 100% field coverage for detailed framing work. Intelligent Preview Function
The Intelligent Preview function allows you to see the effects of manual adjustments to exposure value, shutter speed, aperture, Dynamic Range Optimizer and White Balance before you take the shot, so you can determine the optimum settings before you take the shot, instead of losing time to trial-and-error. 3.0 Xtra Fine LCD 2 (921K pixels)
Review your images in stunning detail on the 3.0 Xtra Fine LCD 2 display (921k pixels). With photo-quality resolution of 270ppi(pixels per inch), you can identify any necessary focus or exposure corrections at the time of capture, rather than discovering them when you transfer your images to your PC. PhotoTV HD viewing w/ HDMI output
The A900 provides direct HDMI output to your BRAVIA HDTV and other compatible HDTV screens, so you can view and share photos in breathtaking clarity and detail3. Additionally, PhotoTV HD capable BRAVIA HDTVs will automatically optimize display settings, such as sharpness, gradation, and color to display your images in a way that more closely matches the natural look of printed photographs. Precise and fast 9-point AF system w/ 10 point assist
A high-performance autofocus system uses 9 focus points (center dual-cross type) and 10 assist points to deliver fast and precise focusing. Flagship design
The A900 features an impressive design befitting a premium flagship model. The simple form eschews ornamentation and exudes competence, while the iconic pentaprism design element conveys superior optical performance. The A900 also incorporates a distinctive cinnabar-colored ring circling the lens mount a design element shared across every ? (alpha) DSLR camera. ...much more about the A900 here on its product page
 Place the pinnacle of high definition in your hands with the HDR-FX1000 high definition MiniDV Handycam camcorder. Equipped with 24p progressive scan mode, you'll experience high-quality, film-like motion for brilliant scene reproduction while CinemaTone Gamma and CinemaTone Color provide the color and gamma range to give your footage an amazing film-like feel. It also features three 1/3-inch ClearVid CMOS image sensors with Exmor derived technology which let you capture sharp, detailed images even in lower-light situations. And the 29.5mm wide-angle to 590mm telephoto G-lens with 20X optical zoom brings the action closer and allows for wider angle shooting. Take control of light in extreme settings with three built-in neutral density filters and three manual rings for adjusting zoom, focus and iris. Plus, the 3.2 Xtra Fine LCD and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization give you an unparalleled recording experience. Film-like Progressive Scan 1080/24p, 1080/30p, or 1080/60i In addition to 1080/60i recording, the HDR-FX1000 offers a 1080/24p and 1080/30p Progressive Scan mode that enables shooting with film-like results. Signals scanned at 24p/30p are converted to 60i (using 2-3 pulldown for 24p) and recorded on MiniDV tape, allowing footage to be played and edited using existing HDV products. In this way, progressive images can be handled in the conventional HDV editing environment. CinemaTone Gamma and CinemaTone Color Users seeking extra control over image expression can use Cinematone Gamma to deepen the color and Cinematone Color to recreate film-like color tones. Cinematone Gamma allows operators to quickly set up and load a gamma curve with similar contrast characteristics to a film gamma curve. 3x 1/3" ClearVid CMOS Sensors w/ Exmor technology The HDR-FX1000 features three 1/3" ClearVid CMOS Sensors, each having 1,120K total pixels. The 3 independent CMOS sensors each handle one of the color elements – red, green, blue (RGB) – improving the color reproduction of video recordings. Dark scenes can be captured with low noise thanks to "Exmor"-derived technology that features a new column A/D converter and dual noise reduction. Sensor resolution has been optimized and the photosensitive surface area has been maximized thanks to the unique grid arrangement of the photo diode sensors, in which each is rotated by 45 degrees. This model also features the signal processing circuit, the Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP) which uses Sony's unique image-processing technology. Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP) Technology The EIP processor is able to rapidly process the vast amounts of pixel data read from the "3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor", and record beautiful HD and colorful video. The ClearVid CMOS Sensor has been developed using the most advanced technologies in the semiconductor industry. It handles video data in 1920 x 1080p and 4:2:2 color space for high-quality signal processing before recording it to tape in the HDV format2. Combined use of the EIP and 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor imaging system allows the HDR-FX1000 camcorder to provide extremely high image quality with a smooth gradation and detailed image reproduction. G Lens: 29.5mm Wide-Angle to 590mm (20x) Telephoto The HDR-FX1000 is equipped with a 29.5mm wide-angle "G Lens" made from advanced 10 group, 15 element lens including "Extra-low Dispersion glass" which reduces chromatic aberration caused by light refraction, and produces video with extremely low color fringing. Designed for shooting situations ranging from broad landscape shots to conditions where sufficient distance from the subject is difficult to obtain. The 20x optical zoom (29.5mm-590mm: 35mm conversion) lets you zoom in to the subjects you can't get close to. The optical zoom takes maximum advantage of the lens performance, so image quality does not suffer even at a zoom ratio of 20x, allowing you to faithfully reproduce the subject's impact. The digital extender increases zoom by 1.5 throughout the range up to 30x at full zoom. Superior low-light (1.5 LUX) shooting capabilities Superior low-light ability with high sensitivity enables clear shooting of subjects in light as low as 1.5 lux (at 1/30 fixed shutter speed with auto iris and auto gain). This allows you to capture sharp detail and brilliant colors even in less than perfect lighting, especially when professional lighting cannot be used. 3x built-in neutral density (ND) filters Gain more color control in extreme settings with three built-in ND filters for adjusting the amount of light entering the Image Sensor through the lens. Depending on shooting conditions, the operator can chose from Clear, 1/4, 1/16, or 1/64 filters. In strong, glaring sunlight these filters give users more flexibility in choosing the shutter speed and aperture for superior creative control. 3x manual rings for superior control: zoom, focus, and iris The HDR-FX1000 has three independent manual rings (zoom, focus, and IRIS ) for superior control and flexibility while filming which make it easier to promptly make adjustments to meet shooting needs. The IRIS ring allows you to adjust the aperture to attain optimal brightness and express beautiful depth of field shots, highlighting a subject while blurring a foreground or background. Exposure can also be assigned to the IRIS ring enabling the camera to automatically select the optimal iris, gain or shutter speed, seamlessly enabling adjustment of exposure. 3.2" Xtra Fine LCD display (921k pixels) The 3.2" Wide (16:9) Xtra Fine LCD screen displays sharp, bright, vivid images, letting you compose a shot more easily -- even outdoors, while enabling you to change settings to best represent the scene. With 921K pixels resolution and a wide viewing angle, the XtraFine LCD screen is like having a HDTV built into your camcorder. Optical SteadyShot image stabilization The Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization System from Sony reduces blur caused by camera shake and vibration, so your images stay crisp and clear. This optical stabilization system achieves an even higher level of smoothness without the image degradation that can occur with some digital stabilization systems. ...much more about the HDR-FX1000 here on its product page
 The HVL-F58AM flash unit delivers flexible lighting control for (alpha) DSLR photographers. The innovative new Quick Shift Bounce system allows the flash to pivot 90 degrees left and right to maintain a proper lighting position, even when shooting vertically. The HVL-F58AM can also wirelessly control up to three groups of flashes, and Wireless Ratio Control allows you to specify luminosity ratios for each group. Additionally, the HVL-F58AM features an effective range of more than 45 feet (14.5m) and a fast, five-second recharge time. A built-in wide panel and bounce sheet provide an even greater degree of creative control. Delivers high-illumination output in a compact, lightweight body, with an effective range of more than 45 feet (14.5m) and guide number 58. (Guide number measures the illumination capability of the flash; the higher the number, the higher the light output. Tested at ISO100, 105mm). The innovative "Quick Shift Bounce" system allows the HVL-F58AM to orbit 90 degrees left and right, allowing you to maintain horizontal light distribution even when shooting vertically. In addition to pivoting side-to-side, the flash unit can also tilt down 10 degrees or back 150 degrees, ensuring customers the lighting freedom they need to capture that perfect shot. Wireless Ratio Control allows customers to wirelessly control up to three groups of flashes, as well as specify the luminosity ratio for each group, so they can enjoy multiple-flash lighting techniques without the need for special equipment or tedious exposure settings. The HVL-F58AM Flash Unit recharges approximately 55% faster than the previous Sony high-end accessory flash (HVL-F56AM), so customers will be ready to catch the next great moment. And because it features a quiet recycle charge, there’s no whine to distract them from their subject. Auto White Balance compensation allows for more accurate white balance in flash photography sending color temperature information from the HVL-F58AM to the camera, where it is incorporated into the camera’s white balance settings.
...much more about the HVL-F58AM here on its product page
**Please note that the latest stock status of these products will change over time and will not reflect this blog post as this is a current news item as of this post date. In other words, if you are reading this weeks or months after this post is noted, the items might not be in stock nor would any deal during this or any of the blogs probably won't be active or there might be even better deals. Best to always check the product page or call us first to be sure. This is something that is true with any blog post or any news item on the web and normally goes without saying, but with our deals... sometimes the excitement could cause us to forget :-) ** Labels: products, sony
August Newsletter: Hiking and Photography
A walk in the woods Photo Ken Nadle
Hiking and PhotographyThe challenge for the hiking photographer is a mix of keeping the load light, including the essentials and protecting the gear. Beyond these issues is your own survival. As Joel Lucks points out in his article Above the Timberline, if you are hiking into the wilderness you must be prepared. Assuming you have the maps, compass, water, food and stamina here are some photographic requisites for bringing back great pictures and undamaged equipment: First, evaluate what photographic equipment you must have. Obviously, you need your camera, memory cards and batteries. If you are hiking for a day or a weekend one extra battery and card are enough. If you are on some extended outback trek you will probably want to invest in a Promaster Go! Charger. You charge the Go Charger and it can charge your batteries up to five times before it has to be recharged. All five models normally ranging in price from $79.99 to $99.99 are now on sale from $39.99 to $49.99 Second, decide if you will need a tripod, a monopod or something versatile like a Joby Gorillapod (10 inches long and just 8.5 ounces) - $49.99 or maybe no tripod at all. Third, and this is a key question - do you have a camera bag that will keep your equipment dry in a downpour or clean on a dusty trail? Let me recommend three - a great back pack and two waist holsters: The National Geographic Medium Backpack - $149.99, the Lowepro Topload Zoom 2 waist holster - $29.99 and the thinkTank Digital Holster 20 - $54.99 that cleverly unzips at the bottom to accommodate longer zoom lenses. One more backpack that I think is terrific is the Lowepro Dry Zone 100 at $229.99. This bag is a soft-sided camera backpack that is completely waterproof. If it falls in the water, even fully loaded, it floats! Also worth mentioning is a Promaster Monopod/Walking Stick. It has a removable ball grip that reveals standard camera thread. It incorporates anti-shock technology for trekking comfort and adjusts from 27 to 55 inches. It is light weight and rugged and just $24.99.
 Rocky Mountain National Park, CO Photo Joel Lucks Above the Timberline by Joel LucksI was sipping water from my hydration pack every fifteen minutes but there was no accounting for the body fluid I was losing on my ascent into Rocky Mountain National Park this past June. The back of my throat became drier and raspier as my altitude increased but with every switchback came the promise of another great vista and photo op. Our climbing group was warned of some snow on the trails but it did not prepare me for the deep snowfields at those higher altitudes. At times I would sink up to my knees or slide on my butt into, gratefully, soft snow. Finally, after climbing for five hours, We reached Ouzel Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park and experienced the thrill that comes from a successful climb and the magnificent view at 10,000 feet. Hiking the peaks of any mountain system is not a solo sport. There is something to be said for the camaraderie, of course, more importantly there is the safety factor. My training emphasizes minimum groups of 3 people; one to stay behind with a downed hiker, the other to go for help. And physical training cannot be taken for granted. Include in your preparation a weekly workout schedule that includes a rigorous aerobic exercise, weight lifting, and proper nutrition. As a New York State Department of Environmental Hiking Guide and a Leukemia/Lymphoma Nationally trained hiking coach, I can honestly tell you that you cannot over train for tough, altitude hiking. Likewise, having the right equipment for a mountain ascent is critical and includes a hydration bladder, daypack or a backpack, trekking poles, proper hiking boots (no sneakers, please), and proper layering, to include rain gear. And this says nothing about selecting survival equipment such as matches, lighters, signaling devices, a knife, sunscreen, water filters, and more. When you are already carrying 25 pounds or so, adding additional weight in camera equipment becomes an exercise in keeping it real. I use a ThinkTank holster that is readily available at my waist. It keeps my camera, filters, extra cards and batteries dry and cushioned. If you have any comments or questions about hiking and photography join our forum. I monitor the forum and would like to hear from you. To see some of my photos and to learn more about me, visit my website at www.joellucks.com. In-Home Lessons In addition to our many in-store classes, Yvonne Berger offers an in-home course on your own computer. Whether you need help with basic computer operations, getting photos organized or specific lessons on the use of any camera as well as expert instructions using Photoshop CS3 or Elements, Lightroom, printing and color management Yvonne can get you up to speed - $85 per hour. Also noteworthy is the free 1/2 hour in-home class (minimum 1 hour) offered by Berger Bros. with the purchase of any digital camera. You can email Yvonne at yvonne@ybdigitalstudios.com or call her - 516 233 0749
Wow! A dream come true. Nikon has just introduced the Nikon D700 which incorporates many of the features of the incredible Nikon D3 in a body similar in size to the D300. Add a pop-up flash and shave off a couple of thousand dollars and you have one hell of a camera.
The D700 has a full frame, 12.1 MP, CMOS Image Sensor and fast continuous shooting capability of up to 5 frames per second (up to 8 fps with the optional MB-D10 Multi-power Battery Pack and EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery or eight AA-size batteries).
The start-up time is 0.12 seconds with a shutter release lag time of just 40ms - that is fast! Other assets are Nikon's 51-point AF system with 3D focus tracking, two Live View modes and a normal ISO sensitivity range of 200 to 6400 but can be boosted to an incredible ISO 25,600 or set down to ISO 100.
The shutter on the D700 is reported to be good for 150,000 exposures rather than 300,000 on the D3. The viewfinder has 95% coverage. And, although the D700 has a full frame sensor, DX lenses can be used and the viewfinder will be automatically masked to reflect the reduced 5.1 MP capture.
Also notable and an improvement not available to the wonderful Nikon D3 is Image Sensor Cleaning, which is activated when the camera is turned on or off and can also be activated on-demand by the photographer.
The D700 has a rugged magnesium alloy body with connections and buttons sealed against moisture. The camera even has a virtual horizon feature that indicates if the camera is level. Bravo Nikon!
Nikon D700 FX-Format 12.1 MP Body Only - $2,999.99
Nikon D700 FX-Format 12.1 MP with AF-S VR Zoom-Nikor 24-120mm f3.5-5.6G IF-ED - $3,599.99
Nikon SB-900 AF Speedlight
Nikon has just announced it's new flagship Speedlight - SB-900. The SB-900 operates as a stand-alone Speedlight, a wireless Speedlight Commander or wireless remote Speedlight.
The Auto Power Zoom Coverage has been expanded to 17-200mm and the flash can identify which format lens is in use - FX or DX and optimizes the light distribution angle.
The SB-900 can control up to 3 remote Speedlight groups and an unlimited number of compatible Speedlights.
Hallelujah! Nikon has streamlined the controls and menus with a Rotary Select Dial which lets you set key flash functions quickly while a prominent Master and Remote control switch simplifies wireless operations.
You can now choose from 3 light distribution patterns to improve light quality by selecting Standard for general illumination, Center-weighted for portraits or Even for groups or interiors.
NIKON SB-900 SPEEDLIGHT - $479.99 (reg $499)
Canon EOS Rebel XS with EF S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 IS Lens
Just announced, this new Rebel replaces the XTi as Canon's entry level D-SLR. It retains the 10 MP CMOS sensor and 2.5 inch LCD of the XTi but uses an XSi body and a newer Digic III processing chip. The XS has a Live View mode and Canon reports that the battery life has been improved.
Among the many outstanding features included in the
Rebel XS are a High-Speed, Wide-Area 7-Point Auto Focus System, 3.0 frames per second continuous shooting and an EOS Integrated Cleaning System.
The Rebel XS uses SD and SDHC memory cards and is compatible with over 60 Canon lenses and most EOS accessories. The Rebel XS is also the lightest and most compact EOS Digital SLR to date.
Available in Silver or Black.
Canon EOS Rebel XS
with EF S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 IS Lens - $669.99*
*A low, low price for Berger Bros. Camera Newsletter readers!
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash
Canon's new 430X II flash combines compact size and affordability with significantly greater user control via new LCD panel on rear of flash. Improvements in circuitry make recycle time 40% faster than the previous model.
It is compatible with Canon's wireless E-TTL and can be used as an affordable slave unit. White balance info is communicated instantly to compatible D-SLR's like the Rebel XS. Six flash custom functions can be set on rear LCD panel.
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash - $319.99 Labels: Hiking, newsletter
Nikon D700 12 Megapixel Full Frame FX Camera
 Here at Berger-Bros. we are proud to introduce the new Nikon D700 SLR. As of today we are accepting pre-orders of this camera and its accessories. Expect them to arrive in our store at or around Aug 1. 2008.
At first glance you would think this is identical to the D300 but a quick check on this SLR's specs will tell you a much different story.
The D700 sports a 12MP full frame FX format for simply magnificent photos and even a full frame viewfinder. This is somewhat comparable to that of the D3 but with a couple of advantages. First advantage is that its body is like the more compact D300. The second advantage over the D3 is that the D700 is officially the first professional Nikon camera with a built-in flash. Thirdly, the camera even includes an internal image sensor cleaning with micro vibrations to rid the sensor of any dust particles as seen in many of the new SLRs in the market. The shutter speed is slightly slower than the D3 at 5 frames per second but with the MB-D10 battery grip, you can raise that up to 8 frames per second.
Here's some other features to the D700: - More flexible "hard button" programming
- Live View w/ virtual horizon line
- ISO 200 - 6400
- Same ultra-fast startup and shutter lag as D3
- HDMI HD video output
- 3.0" 922,000 pixel LCD monitor
- UDMA compatible single CF card slot
More info on our product pages or simply call our 800# at 1-800-262-4160
Here are the available models to order:
Also check out Nikon's Brand New accessories that go with the D700 and other Nikon cameras:
Labels: D700, Nikon, SLR
July Newsletter: Travel Photography
Morocco Photo Catherine Grey
Travel Photography
Nothing excites the creative juices like being in exotic and fascinating places. Berger Bros. customer, Catherine Grey sent us the wonderful desert photo above. It is a great example of how striking foreign vistas can be and how talented some of our customers are.
Of course, travel photography also puts us in the midst of different cultures of which we may know little. A case in point is a story related to me by another Berger Bros. customer, Marcy, who also travelled to Morocco.
While in Morocco, an expensively dressed and jewelled American woman was shooting up close in the faces of veiled Moslem women who were clearly unhappy about it and were trying to avoid her unsuccessfully. In their defense, Marcy went up close to this would be paparazzi and took her photo. The woman freaked. Marcy stood there quietly and said nothing. The woman's husband, however, got the message and led his wife away saying, "come with me dear and I will explain it to you."
Enjoy your travels this summer. Be prepared with extra memory cards, storage back-up devices, spare batteries, multi voltage chargers and adapters but also be a considerate
traveller sensitive to other culture's attitudes.
Essaouirai, Morocco Photo Catherine Grey
Versatile Lenses Ideal for TravelAll of the compact lenses below are suitable for a wide variety of shooting situations ranging from wide-angle landscapes to portraits, action and close-ups. These lenses are ideal walk-around lenses - just right for travelling into the unexpected. - Nikon 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 G ED IF AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor - Extra Low Dispersion Glass, Silent Wave Moter, Internal Focusing, 13.5 ounces - $349.99 - Canon EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 IS USM Zoom - Image stabilized, 18.9 ounces - $429.99 - Pentax SMC DA 18-250mm F/3.5-6.3 ED, AL, IF Zoom, 16 ounces - $499.99 - Olympus 18-180mm F/3.5-6.3 Zuiko Digital Ultra Zoom - 15.4 ounces - $439.99 - Sony (Alpha) DT 18-250mm F/3.5-6.3 IF ED Zoom - Extra Low Dispersion Glass, Internal focusing, 15.5 ounces - $549.99 - Sigma 18-200 F/3.5-6.3 DC Zoom for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Minolta mounts - 14.4 ounces - Special Order Item, Allow 3 days for store pick-up - $379.99 - Tamron SP AF 18-250mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-ll LD ASPH (IF) Macro Zoom for Canon, Minolta, Nikon and Pentax mounts - Internal focusing, Low Dispersion Lens. Incredible versatility - just 15.2 ounces - $499.99 JOBY GORILLAPOD SLR-ZOOM  This is a uniquely usefull tripod to take along on any trip. The SLR-ZOOM model is the largest of three models and can support up to 6.6 pounds of camera and lens yet it is small and surprisingly light - just 8.5 ounces and less than 10 inches long. It has sturdy legs with flexible joints that can bend and rotate 360 degrees so you can fasten it to a steering wheel, fence or pole for a rock steady shot. Also accepts professional tripod heads which I would recommend to make it fully functional - $49.99
Lensbaby 
A Lensbaby is a cleverly designed 50mm coated lens in a flexible barrel that can be moved to selectively pin point an area in the image to be in sharp focus while leaving everything else blurry.
For those who enjoy building an image in the viewfinder, this lens can be a lot of fun. While it might be possible to imitate this selectively sharp and blurry effect in Photoshop, it would not be easy. The lens must be used manually and the aperture is set using magnetic rings with different diameter openings that stick to the front of the lens. Whether you take pictures of flowers, portraits or landscapes, the Lensbaby will add a creative new look to your imagery. The Lensbaby 2.0 is $149.99
The Lensbaby 3.0 works the same way as the 2.0 but the desired effect can be locked in place mechanically for more precise control. The Lensbaby 3.0 is $269.99 Olympus E510 D-SLR with 14-42mm & 40-150mm Zoom Lenses  Considering this camera's very high rating in a recent Consumer Report issue, I felt it was worth mentioning again. The E510 is a 10MP digital SLR with Live View, an effective Dust Reduction System and a 2.5 inch HyperCrystal LCD that lets you see the screen with amazing clarity in bright sunlight and from angles up to 176 degrees. Another clever design feature is the use of two memory slots - one for a compact flash card and one for an xD card. You can even transfer images in camera from one card to the other. This is an excellent all-around, travel, children, sports camera. There is real value here. The E510 D-SLR two lens kit 14-42mm & 40-150mm is just $649.99
Labels: newsletter, Travel Photography
Comments and suggestions about this and future newsletters are welcome: Email me at Ken@berger-bros.com.
KEN NADLE - editor
www.Berger-Bros.com
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