Photography News

Microsoft has reached the release candidate stage for their upcoming Windows 7 operating system -- the successor to Windows Vista.

You can download the full version in either 32 bit or 64 bit at http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/dd353271.aspx.

A release candidate means exactly that, it's a version that is being considered as the version that will be RTM (released to manufacturing), thus the version you'd buy in the box or on a new PC. Therefore this is much more stable and faster than the previous BETA version released in February (which I'm working on right now). It's normal, however, for there to be more than one "RC" versions over the course of final tweaking and testing, but those are likely to be released privately to a small number of testers.

This version is fully functional until March 2010, after which time you'll need to buy a regular license. The RC version formally expires July 2010, but between March and July you can use this Windows 7, but your machine will shutdown every two hours.

Look for a full preview of Windows 7 in the near future.

Press release from Panasonic on the new GH1 micro 4/3 camera due out in June. Just under $1500 in the US, includes 14-140mm stabilized lens and records video in HD format. [MORE]

The wait is over, the green thumbs can all be washed, the second annual International Garden Photographer of the Year has been announced. He is Jonathan Berman of the United Kingdom for his work entitled "In Tresco Abbey Gardens" shot in the Scilly Isles. Berman wins international recognition, acclaim, and most importantly £5,000 ($7,517 USD).

Winners in the portfolio, youth and category contests were also revealed [MORE]

Canon is hoping their new Live Learning program will be the catalyst that "inspires Attendees to Develop Their Personal Creative Vision." The program targets those with either currently use Canon EOS cameras or are considering such.

Their "EOS Essentials" classes will be held throughout 2009 in eight US cities including: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, Atlanta, and Dallas.

“Through the Canon Live Learning program we are hoping to empower and inspire our customers to further enhance their skills and passion for the art of imaging,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “Canon Live Learning adds value to the experience of owning and using Canon photographic products.” [MORE]

Panasonic's newest camera in the Lumix line, the 12x optical, 10 megapixel TZ7 is receiving world traveller treatment in this new ad to be played across Europe. The ad features a tourist filming the Statue of Liberty and as beatboxers start their spitting, Lady Liberty busts a move -- all captured in HD glory by the trusty TZ7.



See the ad for yourself at YouTube.

Amherst Media "Publisher of Photography Books" wanted us to let you know of their two photography blogs offering a little how-to for photographers. Especially those focusing on wedding and portrait photography.

They are aptly named:

The Portrait Photographer and The Wedding Photographer

Enjoy!

Canon USA has opened their annual Photography in the Parks competition for submissions starting today. The fourth edition theme is "Inspirational Nature Images" and entries are accepted until September 30, 2009.

Two division, teens (ages 13-17) and adults (18+) are a new feature of this year's contest. Photos should be taken at any USA park or monument.

Read on for full details. [MORE]

DxO sends word that their DxO Optic Pro package has turned five this month! To mark the occasion, they are giving a 25% discount to new and upgrade users. DxO Optics Pro allows you to automatically remove lens distortion from your photos through its database of over 1,200 optics.

It is available as a standalone application or as a plugin for Photoshop and Lightroom. [MORE]

Sony announced three entry-level DSLR cameras to help transition point-and-shoot and hobbyists into the world of interchangeable lenses. The new A230, A330, and A380 cameras are slated for July availability with pre-orders being taken now.

Four new lenses and a flash will also be available. [MORE]

ACD Systems has annouced the public beta period of ACDSee Pro 3.0 is now open. Interested photographers can download the public beta and use it free of charge until its final release later this fall. [MORE]

KelbyTraining today announced their newest seminar tour for digital photographers "Location Lighting Techniques for Photographers" featuring lighting expert Joe McNally.

The tour will kickoff in San Francisco July 31, 2009. Washington, Los Angeles, and New York are already scheduled with more cities coming throughout 2009.

Your $99 seminar fee ($79 for NAPP members) gets you a entire day of training. [MORE]