Nikon 800mm f/5.6 VR monster super-telephoto announced

Nikon is to unveil its a new monster to its lens line-up. The Nikon AF-S 800mm f/5.6 will be the longest focal length in its current range of optic – an honour currently held by its AF-S 600mm f/4G ED VR.

The longer FX full-frame-compatible lens will have an angle of view of around 3° and will be lusted after by wildlife, sports and paparazzi photographers the world over. It will provide a whopping crop-factor-enduced effective focal length of 1200mm when used on popular DX Nikon D-SLR models.

A prototype of the new lens will be shown at the British Open Golf Championships at Royal Lytham ST Annes next week, and again at the bi-annual Photokina trade show in Cologne this September.

The price, or availability, have not been announced yet – but we expect the recommended retail to be well over the £10,000 ($15,000) mark

It is not the first time that Nikon has had a 800mm f/5.6 lens in its range, however. The Nikkor 800mm f/5.6 IF-ED was introduced in 1986 and discontinued in around 2005. It won’t be light either, and will inevitably weigh in more than the 5kg (11lb) 600mm f/4.

Sigma already produce an 800mm f/5.6 EX DG HSM supertelephoto in Nikon AF mount.

Source: www.digitalcameraworld.com

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Nikon GP-1 Review: Accessory GPS Unit for Nikon D90, D200, D300, D700 and D3

Nov. 12th, 2008

We recently had the opportunity to test out the new Nikon GP-1 GPS positioning device, a Nikon digital SLR accessory which provides a “Geotagging” feature when connected to a supported camera. By tagging your photos with geotags you will not be left wondering down the road "Where was that picture taken?" The Nikon GP1 works by receiving signals from a number of satellites in space. Through triangulation, the camera will “know” where it is on the surface of the Earth and record the latitude and longitude and altitude in the meta data on pictures. Once the GPS data is stored, images can be plotted on a map in Nikon View NX software or on-line at myPicturetown.com, as well as many other programs and web sites. The Nikon GP-1 GPS unit is compatible with the Nikon D90, D200, D300, D300s, D700, and the Nikon D3, D3x and the D3s (also: D2Hs, D2X, D2Xs) digital SLR's. The unit is slated to be available at the end of the month for a manufacturer's recommended retail price (MSRP) of $275 Canadian. (12/11/08) The Nikon GP-1 unit attaches to a camera’s accessory shoe or a camera strap via the supplied strap adapter GP1-CL1. Power is supplied from the camera. There are three connection ports found on the Nikon GP-1, one (marked 'CAMERA' on the top of the unit) to connect via supplied cables to a supported camera, one (marked with remote graphic icon) to connect the new Nikon MC-DC2 remote release cable, and one USB type connection to a computer (found on the back of unit). The Nikon GP-1 comes supplied with two types of camera cables, the GP1-CA90 that allows connection to the Nikon D90, and the GP1-CA10 for connection to the 10-pin remote terminal of other compatible cameras, including the Nikon D200, D300, D700 and the D3, and the older Nikon D2X, D2Hs, and D2Xs. Nikon MC-DC2 Remote Release Cable An optional accessory that plugs into the accessory terminal of specific Nikon SLR cameras (currently only the Nikon D90) and allows the shutter to be released without making direct contact with the camera body. Use of this cable can help avoid camera shake when shooting with a tripod, and it can be used to activate long exposures (bulb). Nikon GP1 GPS Unit Major Features Geotag: image positioning information of pictures such as latitude, longitude (Geodetic System WGS84) can be added to the image. Correlation between pictures and maps is supported by GPS function in conjunction with ViewNX version 1.2 software (no-charge download from Nikon website) and my Picturetown. Acquired data: Latitude, longitude, altitude, time information Time required for satellite acquisition: Approx. 45 sec. (cold start), approx. 5 sec. (hot start) Power source: Supplied from camera body (or computer using USB connection) In order to use the Nikon GP-1 GPS unit with the Nikon D90, there are a few steps that first have to be followed. To begin we connected the supplied GP1-CA90 cable between the "CAMERA' socket on the GP-1 and the "GPS" connection port found on the side of the Nikon D90. The GP-1 GPS unit simply slides into the hot shoe connection of the camera for secure placement. You can also attach the Nikon GP-1 unit to the strap of the camera with the supplied strap adapter. Nikon GP-1 LED receiving indicators: Red blinking (GPS data not recorded) Green blinking (GPS data recorded utilizing three satellites) Green solid (Four or more satellites detected, GPS data is more accurate) Testing the Nikon GP-1 Accessory with the Nikon D90 SLR In the next step we set up the camera by selecting the GPS option found under the "Set Up" menu on the Nikon D90. The GPS menu on the D90 offers two selections: "Auto meter off" and "Position". It is recommended to set "Auto meter off" to OFF, since the Nikon GP-1 draws its power from the camera. The camera could otherwise enter sleep mode while using the Nikon GP-1. In order to activate the Nikon GP-1 and establish a GPS connection you select the 'Position' option in the menu. Once the Nikon GP-1 receives GPS signals, the 'Position' coordinates (Latitude, Longitude, Altitude, UTC) show up in the menu display. In our tests using the Nikon D90, the GP-1 was able to determine a location in as fast as 40 seconds when used in an open area. It took almost 60 seconds to get a signal when we tested the GP-1 closer to tall buildings. Once we took an image we were able to verify the geotag data directly on the camera in playback mode. The Nikon GP-1 does not provide a Compass heading. The below screen grab shows the original tagged image as seen when opened in Nikon View NX software viewer. Using Nikon View NX software there is a tool bar that provides a dedicated "Geo Tag" button. One click of the button and the software will automatically load a Google map (internet connection required) and show the location were the selected image was taken. The software extends the usual Google Maps application offering a Map, Satellite or a Hybrid view of the position. A thumbnail of the image is displayed at the corresponding location on the map. File name and top line meta data is available as well. From our experience testing the Nikon GP-1 GPS unit with the D90, we would have to say that the unit performs as promised. In all of our test shots the GP-1 tagged the picture with the correct data and managed to pin point our location in most cases to within 10 meters. The Nikon GP-1 GPS unit earns a recommended rating and should provide a useful accessory for keeping tabs of those family vacation photos, as well as serve as a practical working tool for business applications, law enforcement, geotaggers and geocachers alike. Source: digitalreview.ca

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Tilt-Shift Photography Photoshop Tutorial

Step 1: Photo Selection

When choosing a photograph for the tilt-shift effect, bear in mind that you want to give the impression of a miniature model. Miniature models are usually viewed from above so try and choose a photo with an elevated viewpoint. Buildings, roads, traffic and railways are excellent choices but make sure there is a reasonable wide angle of view.
For this tilt-shift photography Photoshop tutorial, we are using a picture of Times Square during a typical day:

Even before the tilt-shift effect has been applied, it's not too hard to imagine the scene as if it were a model.

To find an appropriate image, we suggest you browse through the flickr tilt-shift fakes pool. Pay attention to licensing terms though - if you are going to manipulate and display your work it will need to be released under the Creative Commons licence.

Step 2. Enter Quick Mask Mode

Open the image in Photoshop and enter Quick Mask Mode by pressing Q on the keyboard, or select the Quick Mask icon as shown in the Tool Palette below:

Step 3. Choose Gradient Tool

Choose the Gradient Tool by pressing G on the keyboard, or select the Gradient Tool icon. Be sure to choose the Reflected Gradient option (the fourth icon along before the Mode drop-down).

Step 4. Draw A Line

Draw a vertical line; the start point will be the centre of the in-focus area, and the end will be where the transition from in-focus to out-of-focus is completed. This step, and the subsequent two steps, will need a fair degree of trial and error. If you look closely at the image below, you will see the line has been drawn from the back door of the silver car up to just under the word Hollywood beneath the street lamp.

Once you release the mouse button the area of focus will appear as a red band across the image, as shown in the next step.

Step 5. View Mask Area

Before progressing, review the position of the red mask. The middle of the mask is where the in-focus area will be, gradually losing focus towards the edges. Note the out-of-focus effect is yet to be applied.

Step 6. Return To Standard Mode

Press Q on the keyboard to exit Quick Mask Mode and return to Standard Mode, or press the icon on the Tool Palette as shown below. The area to apply the focus effect to will be surrounded by the "marching ants" selection lines:

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Step 7. Open Lens Blur Interface

Choose Filter > Blur > Lens Blur:

Step 8. Review Effect And Tweak Settings

Hopefully, you will now see a pleasing focus effect. The Photoshop default settings for Lens Blur seem to work well, but experiment with them to improve the effect. If you are unhappy with the position of the focus area, go back to Step 4 and try drawing a line in a different place or with a different centre of focus.

Step 9. Exit Lens Blur Interface

Assuming you were happy with the image preview in Step 8, click OK to accept the settings:

Step 10. Remove Selection Boundary

Press CTRL-D on the keyboard to remove the "marching ants" selection bounday:

Step 11. Open Hue/Saturation Adjustment Interface

You may want to boost the colour saturation, to improve the effect. Remember that model scenery is often brightly painted so enhancing the saturation helps trick the eye. Press CTRL-U on the keyboard or select Image > Adjustments > Hue/Saturation:

Step 12. Boost Saturation

In this example, we boost the Master saturation to +40.

Step 13. Open Curves Adjustment Interface

It may help to increase the contrast of the image slightly using the Curves adjustment. Press CTRL-M on the keyboard or select Image > Adjustments > Curves:

Step 14. Adjust Curves

In this example we use a very small S-shaped curve to increase contrast. Take care not to over-do this step; in fact, it may not be necessary at all.

Step 15. Finished

Here's the finished image.

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Top 10 Most Expensive Camera Lens in the World

1.LEICA APO-TELYT-R 1:5.6/1600mm

The first position of the most expensive camera lens is taken by LEICA APO-TELYT-R 1:5.6/1600mm. This lens is sold in the market with the value of 2,064,489 USD or 16 million HKD. This lens is not the largest one but it is the perfect one.

Most expensive camera lens: LEICA APO TELYT

2.Zeiss Apo Sonnar T* 1700 mm F4

Zeiss Apo Sonnar T* 1700 mm F4 is located on the second place of the most expensive camera lens. This product is functional for capturing the wildlife photography. This lens takes the title of the largest lens in the world. It was created by Carl Zeiss. The price remains disclosed.

Most expensive camera lens: Zeiss Apo Sonnar

3.Canon EF 1200mm f/5.6 L USM Lens

The third place of the most expensive camera lens is filled by Canon EF 1200mm f/5.6 L USM Lens. You have to prepare the cash in the rate of 102,498.2 US$ or 9,800,000 yen. The product is perfect for capturing the wildlife as well as sport activities. This product is considered as the larger interchangeable SLR AF lens in the world for the maximum aperture along with the focal length.

Most expensive camera lens: Canon EF-1200mm

4. Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 EX DG Telephoto Zoom Lens

Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 EX DG Telephoto Zoom Lens is situated on the fourth position of the most expensive camera lens. The buyers in the market have to spend 31,987.0276 US or £19,399.01. You can use this camera lens for capturing wildlife, astrophotography, sports, and portraits.

Most expensive camera lens: Sigma 200-500mm

5.Canon EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM Super Telephoto Lens

Canon EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM Super Telephoto Lens grabs the fifth place of the most expensive camera lens. It is priced in the rate of 17,081.1859 US$ or £10,359.14. The weight of this lens is up to 4.5 kilogram or 101 lbs. The length is 18 inches.

Most expensive camera lens: Canon EF 800mm

6.Sigma 300-800mm f/5.6 EX DG HSM

The sixth place of the most expensive camera lens is picked by Sigma 300-800mm f/5.6 EX DG HSM. Based on the rate in Amazon, you can have it by spending $9,999.00. This lens features multi-layer lens coating. It can decrease the ghosting as well as the flare.

Most expensive camera lens: Sigma 300-800mm f5

7.Sigma APO 300-800mm f/5.6 EX IF HSM Lens for Nikon

Sigma APO 300-800mm f/5.6 EX IF HSM Lens steals the seventh position of the most expensive camera lens. This product can give the user with fast aperture. The telephone range comes in the measurement at 300 mm. You can enjoy capturing by expending 11,994.0821 US$ or £7,273.99.

Most expensive camera lens: Sigma APO 300-800mm

8.Nikon 600mm F4G ED VR AF-S Nikkor Lens

Nikon 600mm F4G ED VR AF-S Nikkor Lens picks the eighth position of the most expensive camera lens. It is sold in the market with the rate of 11 540.6511 US$ or £6,999.00. This lens suitable to reduce the ghosting and flare for it features Meniscus protective glass and Nikon Nano Crystal Coat.

Most expensive camera lens: Nikon 600mm

9.Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L Image Stabilization USM Lens

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L Image Stabilization USM Lens takes the ninth place of the most expensive camera lens. It is suitable for capturing the picture in wildlife, nature as well as sport. It is sold in the price of 10 980.5857 US$ or £6,659.34

Most expensive camera lens: Canon EF-400mm-f2.8L

10.Nikon 400mm F2.8G ED VR AF-S Nikkor Lens

Nikon 400mm F2.8G ED VR AF-S Nikkor Lens gets the tenth position of the most expensive camera lens. It features the VR-II, meniscus protective glass and also Nano Crystal. You will never see any ghosting and flare in your pictures.

Most expensive camera lens: Nikon 400mm-F2.8G

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Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Construction Progress

By year end on November 1st, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Formula One race track is set to be completed by then.

So far the construction progress is going on schedule.

(Click picture to enlarge)

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Burj Al-Arab Hotel Dubai

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