New Nikon flagship – D3x

Ok, ok, I know I said yesterday I would be posting photographer’s wise quotes on creativity and photo but I just saw a review of the new Nikon D3x. So this news pre-empts regular programming!

The Nikon D3x has been a long awaited mythological machine – rumoured for many months to be “available soon“. The hubbub existed because the new D3x was expected to answer many Nikon users requests:

• Full frame sensor  – no more silliness with DX lenses and multiplication factors
• AND a reasonably big file size 

I say a “reasonably big file size” because it is not BIG. It is as big as available in production models currently available. I have been asked for BIG files from prospective clients and that meant film. The D3x now produces a file as large as I can get from a 35mm piece of film on my Imacon/Hasselblad scanner. The D3x will produce a different looking file – film and digital have their own distinct looks.

I never liked the DX format. It exists because the chip (sensor) in the camera is smaller, therefore costing less to produce. The small sensor creates a smaller file size – ie less pixels. The DX format also causes your 50mm lens to work like a 75mm lens which is great if you want long telephoto lenses but a struggle if you like the wide angled fun.

I am curious about the D3x. I have digital cameras but really use them for smaller work – magazines and other work where the required output is smallish. The D3x would open my digital sourced capability – it may be time to look at a purchase.

Reviews:

• Nikonians.com
• DPReview.com

And tomorrow, back to regular programming…

Harry

Our newest course, Sessions Photo Challenge, ended last night with the final critique session.

During the challenges visited three locations over the three practical sessions:

1. downtown landscapes at night – capturing architectural and city night lights
2. photojournalistic street portraits and city life in a busy night strip
3. capturing an art show opening in a prominent gallery

Sessions Photo Challenge photo by Sylvie
Students learned about:

• different styles of shooting
• different shooting challenges
• dealing with elements of street photography
• technical and creative elements of the craft
• light painting

I saw challenges, concerted concentration and smiles as participants saw their photography grow. It was our first Session Photo Challenge but, based on reactions, we are holding the second offering in February.

There is a summer version in the plans, too.

Harry

Photo District News reports today that Life Magazine has teamed up with Google to make its huge photo archive available for viewing. Life still keeps a tight hand on the image’s copyright.

So?

That leaves the door open for unlicensed use of the small file sized imagery.  However Photo District news quotes Life President Andrew Blau “Bloggers pasting photos into blogs are our lowest priority.” They continue, “LIFE’s first priority will be to pursue “blatant misuse,” such as unauthorized use of the images on commercial products, Blau says.”

Interesting times, as the realistic application of copyright protection continues to evolve! Read the whole PDN article.

Many of you have noticed I do watermark everything on my blog. I do so partly to:

1. discourage unwanted use
2. show pride in my work by attaching the watermark and
3. promote my business in the event someone places one of my photos on their screensaver.

Harry