Nikon Owner magazine blog

Thursday, 19 August 2010

AF-S Nikkor 85MM F/1.4G: A Legend Reborn

RRP: £1499.99 / €1776

Sales start date: 2nd September 2010

Nikon UK today announces a new fast aperture medium-telephoto lens – the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G. This lens supersedes the highly acclaimed AF NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4D IF with a totally new optical design, Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and Nano Crystal Coat, making it the essential choice for today’s portrait and fashion photographer.

This lens continues the rich legacy of NIKKOR 85mm optics and reflects Nikon’s continuing dedication to optical innovation.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The new AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G takes portraiture to another level. Lenses like this encapsulate what the NIKKOR brand stands for: amazing contrast and resolution, with unique bokeh qualities.”

He added: “We think it will set a new benchmark for stills photographers as well as the growing army of videographers using D-SLRs like the D3S.”

AF-S Nikkor 85MM F/1.4G

Bokeh Master

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G is designed to be the ultimate optic for professional portraiture. The fast f/1.4 aperture provides excellent subject-background separation, whilst the rounded
nine-blade diaphragm renders stunning bokeh with smooth out of focus areas.

Leading Light

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G features a newly-developed optical system with 10 elements in 9 groups and incorporates Nikon’s exclusive anti-reflection Nano Crystal coat, drastically reducing ghosting and flare to deliver rich, high contrast images even under the most testing lighting
conditions.

Smooth Operator
The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G features a dedicated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) to ensure quiet and accurate focusing. The gearing mechanism has been refined to offer extremely smooth operation when using Manual focus.
Tough Customer

As you would expect, the lens has the tough NIKKOR magnesium body and sealing against moisture and dust to continue working in the toughest of shooting conditions. Weighing in at 595g, it balances well on Nikon’s advanced and professional D-SLRs like the D700 and D3 series cameras.

The lens is supplied with a hood HB-55 and a soft pouch.
Specifications

Focal length	85mm
Maximum aperture	f/1.4
Minimum aperture	f/16
Lens construction	10 elements in 9 groups (with Nano Crystal Coat)
Angle of view	28˚30’ (18˚50’ with Nikon DX format)
Closest focus distance	0.85m (2.79ft)
Max reproduction ratio	0.12x
Diaphragm blades	9 (rounded)
Focusing	AF with built in SWM and Manual focus
Filter/attachment size	77mm
Diameter x length	Approx. 86.5 x 84mm / 3.4 x 3.3in
Weight	Approx. 595g / 21.0oz

Images are available to download from www.nikon.co.uk/pressimages
Press contacts: Jenny Grace /020 8247 1797 / Jenny.grace@nikon.co.uk / Claudia Paul / 0208 481 6838 / claudia.paul@nikon.co.ukFor more information about

Nikon’s award winning products, please visit www.nikon.co.uk

About Nikon

Founded in Japan in 1917, Nikon has grown to become the world leader in digital and precision optics technology with a strong presence in all four corners of the world.

Through its award-winning productline-up, including entry-level and professional digital SLR cameras,interchangeable NIKKOR lenses and the consumer COOLPIX range, Nikon regularly raises the standard in product design and performance. With over 90 years of engineering expertise, it is no wonder that Nikon is the top choice for photographers around the world.

In 2009, Nikon celebrated two key milestones in the lens category – the 50th anniversary of its legendary F-mount SLR lens-mounting system, making it the only manufacturer to sustain its original lens mount for such a long period, and the production of its 50 millionth NIKKOR lens. Both highlight Nikon’s dedication to producing quality and functional products that can be used by photographers for years to come.

Nikon also produces equipment such as IC and LCD steppers and scanners, instruments such as microscopes and semiconductor inspection equipment. Other products include sports optics products such as binoculars, rangefinders and fieldscopes, ophthalmic lenses and surveying instruments. It is the only major optical company in the world that still controls and manufactures every aspect of its glass-making business, allowing it to finely tune Nikon lens specifications, quality and performance.

Nikon has consolidated net global sales of 879,719 million Japanese Yen (year ending 31 March, 2009) and Nikon Corporation is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Nikon: At the heart of the image.
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AF-S Nikkor 24-120MM F/4G ED VR: Versalility Remastered

RRP: £1049.99 / €1243

Sales start date: 22nd September 2010

Nikon UK is pleased to announce the release of the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR, a brand new 5x zoom lens for FX format D-SLR photographers. The 24-120mm focal length continues to be a unique proposition in the NIKKOR lens range and the new version features a fixed f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range. It incorporates Nano Crystal coat and Nikon’s second generation VRII system.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR lens offers excellent value and performance in a compact package for adventurous photographers everywhere. It is the second f/4 aperture VR zoom lens introduced this year that broadens the options for Nikon photographers.”

AF-S Nikkor 24-120MM F/4G ED VR

Fixed Flexibility

The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR covers a NIKKOR exclusive zoom range of 24mm to 120mm, ideal for events and travel photography. The fixed f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure settings across the zoom range; whatever the subject, from expansive landscapes to isolating portraits, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR does it with ease.

Hold Still

The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR is equipped with Nikon’s second generation Vibration Reduction system (VR II) which offers compensation for camera movement the equivalent to a shutter speed of approximately four stops faster, and couples well with the f/4 fixed aperture under low light conditions.

The system incorporates two modes: Normal for general handheld shooting and Active to compensate for the mechanical vibration frequencies caused by planes and moving vehicles.

Brilliant quality across the zoom range

The complex optical design uses Nano Crystal coat, two ED glass elements and no less than three aspherical lens elements to maintain bright, high contrast images under a wide variety of light conditions. Ghosting, flare and aberrations are minimised whilst the nine bladed diaphragm generates subtle bokeh effect in out of focus areas.
Smooth performer

The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) was specifically developed for the unique characteristics of this lens. It offers very discreet autofocus performance with instant Manual override possible in M/A mode. The zoom gearing and switch placement has been carefully designed for intuitive (blind) operation when looking through the viewfinder. The lens balances well with D-SLRs like the D700 and the barrel features a subtle indentation to assist grip when in use.

Built to move

The large zoom range is achieved in a very compact and tough construction, ideal for the adventure and travel photographer. Through extensive use of magnesium and Super Engineering Plastic components the lens is built to handle the knocks of everyday use, and rubber sealing around switches and lens mount mean moist or dusty conditions are not a problem.

The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED

VR takes the ‘standard zoom’ concept to another level to meet the demands of today’s high resolution FX format D-SLRs while maintaining excellent price/performance ratio.

The lens is supplied with a dedicated hood HB-53 and a soft pouch.

Specifications

Focal length		24-120mm
Maximum aperture		f/4
Minimum aperture		f/22
Lens construction		17 elements in 13 groups (with two ED glass elements, three aspherical lenses and Nano Crystal Coat
Angle of view		84˚-20˚ 20’ (61˚-13˚ 20’ with Nikon DX format)
Closest focus distance		0.45m (1.5ft)
Max reproduction ratio		0.24x (at telephoto setting)
Diaphragm blades		9 (rounded)
Focusing		AF with built in SWM and Manual focus
Filter/attachment size		77mm
Diameter x length		Approx. 84 x 103.5mm
Weight		Approx. 710g / 25oz

Nikon’s award winning products, please visit www.nikon.co.uk

About Nikon

Founded in Japan in 1917, Nikon has grown to become the world leader in digital and precision optics technology with a strong presence in all four corners of the world.

Nikon has consolidated net global sales of 879,719 million Japanese Yen (year ending 31 March, 2009) and Nikon Corporation is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Nikon: At the heart of the image.
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AF-S DX Nikkor 55-300MM F/4.5-5.6G ED VR: Extending the Reach

RRP: £369.99 /€438

Sales start date: 2nd September 2010
Nikon UK today announces a new super telephoto zoom lens – the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. With a focal length ranging from 55mm to 300mm (equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm on DX format D-SLRs) it enables the user to really get up closeand personal with distant subjects.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe BV, says: “The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is a really useful and economical second lens alongside today’s standard 18-55mm kit lenses, enabling coverage of all subjects both near and
far. The compact dimensions and lightweight construction make it an ideal choice for the compact D-SLR customer.”

AF-S DX Nikkor 55-300MM F/4.5-5.6G ED VR

Go further for less

The 5.5 times zoom ratio offers flexibility by drastically extending the telephoto reach. With 300mm (450mm equivalent on DX format cameras when compared to 35mm format) at the telephoto
end, this lens leads the way in affordable and portable telephoto photography, ideal for family sport events and holidays.

Hold Steady

Incorporating the latest VR II (second generation Vibration Reduction) technology, the lens delivers sharper images when the camera is hand-held. This is especially useful when using slower
shutter speeds at longer focal lengths, or when shooting in low light.

Keep Quiet

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR incorporates Nikon’s SWM (Silent Wave Motor). This ensures that the autofocus is fast and quiet so you don’t miss that crucial moment, nor draw attention to yourself in more private settings.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR incorporates high quality ED and new HRI (High Refractive Index) glass elements to help deliver crisp images, even under harsh lighting conditions. The lens has a weather sealed mount, which prevents moisture and dust infiltrating the lens or camera sensor.
Ready for adventure, the AF-S DX

NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is an affordable and compact lens that will be a welcome addition to any camera bag. The lens is supplied with HB-57 lens hood to prevent flare in strong light and a lens pouch for safe storage and transportation. The lens will also be available in zoom kits with Nikon’s popular D-SLR range.

Specifications

Focal length	55-300mm (35mm format equivalent 82.5-450mm)
Maximum aperture	f/4.5-5.6
Minimum aperture	f/22-29
Lens construction	17 elements in 11 groups (with two ED glass elements and one HRI* lens element) *High Refractive Index
Angle of view	28°50’-5°20’
Closest focus distance	1.4m / 4.6ft.
Max reproduction ratio	0.28x
Diaphragm blades	9 (rounded)
Focusing	AF with built in SWM and Manual focus
Filter/attachment size	58mm
Diameter x length	Approx. 76.5 x 123 mm
Weight	Approx. 530g / 18.7oz.

Nikon’s award winning products, please visit www.nikon.co.uk

About Nikon

Founded in Japan in 1917, Nikon has grown to become the world leader in digital and precision optics technology with a strong presence in all four corners of the world.

Nikon has consolidated net global sales of 879,719 million Japanese Yen (year ending 31 March, 2009) and Nikon Corporation is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Nikon: At the heart of the image.
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Wednesday, 18 August 2010

The new website for Nikon Owner magazine just went live!

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Let us know what you think of the new look via e-mail, Twitter or Facebook

The entire site has been updated and the members' area has also had a makeover. The members-only sections include:

Press Releases
Technical Helpline
Equipment Reviews
Subscriber Reviews
Photo Galleries
Message Board
Buy & Sell Area
Special Articles
Events

If you are not a Nikon Owner member yet, have a look through our website and you'll see it is more than just a magazine subscription.
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Monday, 16 August 2010

Nikon Photo Contest International

Nikon Corporation announces the launch of this year’s Nikon Photo Contest International with a call for entries from photographers of all skill levels around the world. Now in its 33rd year, the global competition is established as one of the world’s most important and inspiring contests.

Entries will be accepted between September 1 and November 30, 2010 and the winners announced in June 2011. The 33rd Nikon Photo Contest International provides an opportunity for photographers to showcase their work and to contribute to photographic culture.

Since it was first held in 1969, the contest has steadily gained popularity with more than 320,000 photographers who have collectively submitted over 1,310,000 photos. In 2008-2009 more than 18,000 photographers from 153 countries submitted over 51,000 photos. These numbers represent records for the largest number of entries by the most applicants from the most countries ever, establishing the Nikon Photo Contest International as a truly international competition.

This year’s categories and awards
Entries for the 2010-2011 contest will be accepted for two categories. The first category is a free subject category (A) and the second is based around the theme, "Energy” (B). Photos of any subject or theme are invited for the free subject category. Entries for the “Energy” category should be photos that capture the energy of sights and subjects that inspire, motivate or excite either the photographer or people who see the image.

The Emerging Talent Award is awarded to provide younger photographers with an opportunity to share their photos and a goal towards which they may work, and many photos are entered by young photographers each time this contest is held.

53 prizes awarded by a panel of international photographers
Entries will be judged by photographers currently active on the world stage. Of a total of 53 prizes awarded, one photo will receive the Grand Prize, 16 photos from each category will receive first, second and third prizes; four photos entered by photographers aged 29 or younger will receive Emerging Talent Awards, and 16 Emerging Talent Award runners up will be selected.

D3S - part of the Grand Prize

Birgitta Olson, General Manager Communications at Nikon Europe B.V. said: “Nikon wants to stimulate people around the world to discover the joy of photography, letting them and others experience the communicative power of images. We are convinced that all contestants will again rise to the exciting challenge.”

Winners will be announced in June 2011 with an exhibition of the winning photographs planned.*

*Exhibition venue and dates to be decided at a later date.

Entry requirements
Any professional or amateur photographer, regardless of age, gender or nationality, may participate.

A single photo may not be entered in both categories.

Entry period
September 1 (Wednesday) through November 30 (Tuesday), 2010

Entry method
Image data will be accepted via the Internet. Fill out the application form on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website (http://www.nikon-npci.com) and transmit image data via the form.

Number of entries: 2 photos for each category (total of 4) may be submitted.

Entry format: Image data captured with a digital still camera (excluding that captured by medium-format and larger digital cameras) and image data created by scanning an image captured with a film camera (35mm or APS) will be accepted. Images that have been digitally enhanced or edited with software will also be accepted.

File size: 10 MB or less per file

Image data file format: JPEG only

Fill out the application form on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website (http://www.nikon-npci.com) and transmit image data via the form.

Judging and announcement
Entries will be judged by an impartial panel of well-known photographers currently active on the world stage. Winners will be announced by the end of June 2011 on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website (http://www.nikon-npci.com)

Awards and prizes

Recipients of a total of 53 awards and prizes will receive Nikon imaging products. In addition to their awards, 21 recipients of the Grand Prize, Emerging Talent Awards and Emerging Talent Awards runners up will be permitted to exhibit their entries in the contest Mini Gallery. The Mini Gallery will be accessible from the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website (http://www.nikon-npci.com).

Award	Number of Winners	Prize
Grand Prize	1	Nikon D3S digital-SLR camera AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Winning photo to be included in the Mini Gallery on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website
First place	1 from each category (2 all together)	Nikon D300S digital-SLR camera SB-900 Speedlight AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR
Second place	5 from each category (10 all together)	Nikon D5000 digital-SLR camera AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR
Third place	10 from each category (20 all together)	Nikon D3000 digital-SLR camera AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR
Emerging Talent Award	4 all together, regardless of category	Nikon COOLPIX P6000 digital camera Photos to be included in the Mini Gallery on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website
Emerging Talent Award runners up	16 all together, regardless of category	Nikon COOLPIX S1000pj digital camera Photos to be included in the Mini Gallery on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website

For further details, please access the official Nikon Photo Contest International Web site at:
Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011
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Sunday, 15 August 2010

A Journey into Time-Lapse Photography with Neil Lucas

left to right: Michael Eleftheriades, Nikon Owner London Group Co-Ordinator, with Neil Lucas

On 19th June 2010, Grays of Westminster and the Nikon Owner London Group presented 'A Unique Midsummer Event A Journey into Time-Lapse Photography' with Neil Lucas, producer of the acclaimed BBC 'Life' Series, at Fitzroy House, London.

Neil's presentation took the audience through his career, from the moment he realised he wanted to work in television (when he saw a 1960s episode of Blue Peter explaining how it was filmed), right through to fascinating time-lapse behind-the-scenes details of the BBC documentaries 'Life', 'The Private Life of Plants' and 'Frozen Planet'. Neil also covered the history of time lapse photography itself covering the work of the pioneers of this highly specialised field, including Dr John Ott.

About Neil Lucas
Neil Lucas worked for the BBC Natural History Unit as a producer for over 20 years. During that time, he worked on many internationally acclaimed and award-winning productions, including Sir David Attenborough’s 'The Trials of Life', 'The Private Life of Plants', 'The Life of Mammals' and 'Planet Earth'. In the outstanding 'Life' series, he produced two of the most technically challenging programmes, and many of his programmes have been nominated for BAFTAs and EMMYs. Neil is now working as a freelance film director and photographer specialising in challenging and technical shoots, using the same filming and photographic techniques he has mastered throughout his career.
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Wednesday, 11 August 2010

Images of Russia - Simon Marsden

162 photographs from Simon Marsden's recent travels
in Russia are now available for sale or editorial use.

Find them in the Russia category of the picture library.

www.marsdenarchive.com