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Rangefinder Magazine
Departments/January 2002
New Products
Specifications in these listings are condensed from information provided
by manufacturers and suppliers. For more information about these new products
or processes, use the Direct Response Cards provided elsewhere in this
issue. When contacting the companies direct, please mention Rangefinder.
Photoflex Inc. has just introduced the Digital Lighting Kit, targeted
to professional and amateur digital-camera users. Photoflex’s new
kit includes either a small, medium or large SilverDome nxt softbox, a
Starlite 3200 light, and a four-section Litestand. A seven-lesson instructional
CD included in the kit guides users through studio and product photography
with lighting equipment specifically designed for digital cameras. Information:
www.photoflex.com.
Both the Canon D30 and 550EX flash can be powered simultaneously by a
Quantum Turbo Battery. Quantum Instruments has announced their model DC30
cord. A Turbo Battery supplies both high voltage for the 550EX flash and
low voltage for the Canon D30 Digital Camera. Flash recycling is quick—1.25
seconds for a full power flash. And you’ll never be caught without
power for the D30. Turbo Battery’s high capacity and “fuel gauge”
LED monitor help keep you up and running. To power both camera and flash,
you need to use a Quantum “Dual” connector QT48 with Turbo Cables
CD30 and CZ. To power just the D30 camera alone use only the CD30 cable.
Information: www.qtm.com, (516) 222 6000.
The development of Minolta’s PC Flash Adapter PCT-100 offers photographers
using the Minolta DiMAGE 7 and DiMAGE 5 digital cameras the ability to
connect to professional studio and location flash systems. The self-powered
PC Flash Adapter slides into the DiMAGE 7 and the DiMAGE 5 accessory shoe
and the flash’s PC cord plugs into the adapter’s standard PC
terminal. Designed for center-negative and center-positive polarities,
the PC Flash Adapter PCT-100 is compatible with most studio and location
lighting systems. Information: www.minoltausa.com or access Minolta’s
PHOTOFAX at (800) 528-4767.
Drytac’s most recent contribution to improving finishing technology
is MHA™, a heat-activated mounting adhesive. The “low-tack,
low-heat” adhesive formula allows prints to be repositioned on substrates
pre-coated with MHA. The mounted artwork is then processed through any
multi-heat roller laminator at a low 170°F temperature setting, creating
an instant, permanent bond. Most pressure-sensitive mounting adhesives
do not allow repositioning and do require adhesive curing time. Information:
contact Drytac Corporation via phone at (888) 622-3236 orvia e-mail at
richmond@drytac.com.
Photogenic Professional Lighting is introducing the new StudioMax Elite
300, which will will operate on either AC or DC power and was designed
specifically to give photographers versatility with five-stop flash power
settings of 18WS to 300WS/joules. The back panel display is easy to view,
showing independent switches for both modeling and flash power. The lightweight
Elite 300 features the quick-change system to receive all of Photogenic
reflectors and accessories. It also features a plug-in flashtube, a 40
watt modeling light, ready light with push-to-test button and built-in
photo slave. The Elite 300 will automatically switch from AC to DC operation.
Information: www.
photogenicpro.com or (330) 758-6658.
Pictorico Ink Jet Media has introduced their resin-coated (RC) Photo Gallery
Glossy Paper, the 10th product in Pictorico’s line of high-quality
inkjet media, an a new addition to its Photo Gallery series. Both sides
of the Photo Gallery Glossy Paper are covered with a polyethylene laminate
that gives traditional silver halide photo prints added durability. The
result is a sheet with a sleek, brilliant high-gloss finish and the look
and feel of traditional photo paper. Information: (800) 899-5009; www.pictorico.com.
Taprell Loomis has announced three new Theme Memory Mates. “Fish”
uses sea-life graphics in a unique and colorful concept; “Nursery”
shows off animal toys to set a playful tone; and “Activity”
captures an artistic display of school items and events for older kids.
TAP’s new vivid, multicolored mates feature pop-out easel backs,
are side loading and come in 75/35V with an 8x10 outside. See these latest
designs and dozens of other theme and sports memory mates in TAP’s
current catalog of mounts, folios and albums. Information: (800) 827-5679;
www.tap-usa.com.
Luminos Photo Corp. has introduced the LumiFlo Fluidic Ink Delivery System
and Lumijet Preservation Series LumiFlo Gold High Performance Ink to be
used with Epson 1270 and 1280 inkjet printers. By eliminating the need
to purchase expensive replacement cartridges, the LumiFlo Fluidic Ink
Delivery System specifically reduces the cost of ink and media supplies.
Image quality and printing efficiency are also improved because the LumiFlo
System supplies the printer with a continuous flow of ink. The complete
system includes: the LumiFlo Fluidic Ink Delivery Device (including preset
microchips); six 4-ounce bottles of Preservation Series LumiFlo Gold Ink;
a Preservation Series Sampler Pak that includes 2 sheets each of five
Lumijet Preservation Series fine art media; and a CD with 1270/1280 ICC
profiles to assist in color management. Information: (800) LUMINOS; www.lumijet.com.
Hasselblad has introduced a new Biogon Cfi 4.5/38mm lens for its SWC camera,
renaming the complete camera model as 905SWC. Compared to the earlier
CF design on the 903SWC, the Cfi design has: smoother focusing; improved
flash PC contact, filter and lens shade interfaces; improved ergonomics;
a shutter mainspring made of NIVAROX for greater durability and lasting
precision; and lens shade for maximum image contrast under all lighting
conditions. Information: (973) 227-7320; www.hasselbladusa.com.
Kinetronics Corporation has introduced its Microfiber Lens Cleaning Cloth
(MFC). The precision cloth can be used on many surfaces, including digital
and regular cameras, lenses, camcorders, telescopes and binoculars. Microfiber
is superior to other types of cloth in removing facial oils from the LCD
screens on digital cameras, and there are hundreds of thousands of small
pockets in the in the microfiber cloth that capture and trap dust and
dirt. The gentle, 8"x8" lint-free cloth can be used on lenses,
viewfinders and LCSD screens. MFC is available from any photo lab supplier,
or directly from Kinetronics USA or Kinetronics Europe. Information: (941)
951-2432; www.
kinetronics.com.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon, Inc., has introduced a new,
high-speed desktop film scanner for use with 35mm film of all types. The
new scanner, which incorporates a USB interface for easy connection to
a PC, helps “bridge the gap” between analog and digital imaging
by providing a means of downloading conventional photos into a computer
for the purposes of creating prints via computer output devices, e-mail
and the creation of personal Web sites. The CanoScan FS2720U offers several
advanced features, including a maximum scanning speed of 13/10 seconds
per frame (35mm/APS), 2, 720 dpi optical resolution, 12-bit RGB input
and output, and the ability to accept slides or negatives, color or black-and-white
in either the 35mm or APS formats. Information: (800) OK-CANON; www.usa.canon.com.
Crane & Co., Inc. has created a new line of personalized holiday photo
enclosure cards designed specifically for professional photographers.
The new collection features 19 engraved, silkscreened and foil stamped
designs. The card designs, which range from traditional to whimsical,
accommodate 4x4 and 4x5 photographs and are displayed in a handsome and
convenient album without photographs so that studios can exhibit their
own work. The album also displays a selection of 13 lettering styles,
optional envelope linings and a liberal selection of ink colors.
Personalized greetings and return addresses are offered by engraving,
thermography or flat printing. Customers will have a choice of using a
stock or custom greeting, at no charge. Information: (413) 684-6287; www.crane.com.
Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. recently previewed the beta version of a
new digital software offering, StudioMaster PR. An integrated image and
lab ordering application, StudioMaster PRO is designed to offer photographers
complete creative control by allowing them to build a custom order that
is transmitted directly to the photo processing lab. Created by Fujifilm
e-Systems, StudioMaster PRO is designed to interface only with the specific
order entry system of the lab being used. The lab completes the order
using the PIC Pro 2.0 lab management system that interfaces with Fujifilm
Frontier Digital Lab System Series 350/370/390. The initial version of
StudioMaster PRO allows for digital images to be presented. In the near
future, support for scanning color negatives will be included. Information:
(914) 789-7916; www.fujifilm.com.
Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. has introduced the new Fujifilm Pictrography
4000II, a flexible-format, true photographic quality color digital printer
incorporating Fujifilm’s technologically-advanced imaging tools to
produce high quality prints for graphic studios, professional studios
and photo labs. Building on the success of the Pictrography 4000, the
Pictrography 4000II sets a new standard in digital color printing with
its capacity for ultra high-speed printing, photorealistic and continuous
color quality and the ability to handle multiple paper sizes. The printer
features One Pass processing for both laser-diode exposures and yellow,
magenta-cyan thermal development and dye transfers with Fujifilm’s
Thermal Development and Dye Transfer Technology, allowing for sharper
output. Information: (914) 789-8148, www.fujifilm.com.
Schneider Optics has announced the availability of a new 400mm Apo-Tele-Xenar
f/5.6 MRC large format lens that covers the 5x7” format. The compact
design of the lens makes it smaller and lighter than ordinary telephoto
lenses of the same focal length and format coverage, and gives it high-performance
characteristics. The lens may be used to photograph objects as close as
six feet away without sacrificing image quality. The 400mm Apo-Tele-Xenar
Compact MRC lens ensures high resolution across the entire image circle,
allows a shorter bellows draw (at infinity) than ordinary lenses of the
same focal length, and features Schneider’s new MRC coating, a hard
durable surface that reduces lens fogging and makes cleaning easier. Information:
(631) 643-5466; www.schneideroptics.com.
A new line of 40-degree Softbox Grids™ has been introduced by Photoflex
to provide videographers and filmmakers with precise, cost-effective control
of light spread in the studio and on-location. Unlike comparable products,
the grids retain their shape indefinitely because every point of the nylon-webbed
fabric is individually hand-sewn. Lightweight and portable, the grids
respond well to daily setups and takedowns, both on location and in the
studio. The grids retail at $95.95 for the small size (16x22”), $129.95
for the medium (24x32”) and $199.95 for the large (36x48”).
Information: (800) 486-2674.
Calumet Photographic has redesigned their Travelite Monolight so it recycles
30 percent faster, delivers more controllable power with 25 percent shorter
flash durations and weighs less than the original series. The Travelite
moonlights are available in two models: the 750w/s unit and the 375 w/s
unit, which replaces the original 250w/s version. Other performance enhancements
include faster recycle time (2.1 seconds for the 750 and 1.7 seconds for
the 375) and shorter flash durations (1/600 second for the 750 and 1/900
for the 375). To increase the power consistency, the Travelite is internally
stabilized to produce reliable output, flash after flash. Information:
(312) 944-2774; www.calumetphoto.com.
Hy-Lite Products has announced its acrylic walls and partitions for the
perfect backdrop that affords privacy and unique lighting opportunities.
Hy-Lite creates every unit to the custom sized needs of its customer.
Decorative yet durable, acrylic block walls, panels and partitions can
be built in an array of sizes and shapes. Pre-fabricated into units at
the factory, Hy-Lite products are made of high-quality, scratch-resistant
acrylic. The blocks are more than 70 percent lighter than installed glass
block units, making the units easier to work with. Blocks are available
in clear wave, clear cross rib and frosted wave patterns in several sizes,
and come in designer colors of green, blue, peach and rose. Information:
(800) 827-3691; www.hy-lite.com.
Schneider Optics has introduced two new Aspheric lenses for large format,
wide-angle photography – the 210mm Super-Symmar XL f./5.6 and the
80mm Super-Symmar XL f/4.5. Because of their high tolerance for magnification
ratios, high resolution across the entire image circle, uniform illumination,
and proprietary multicoating for maximum reduction of flare and increased
light transmission, these lenses are ideal for even the most dynamic studio
and field applications, including architectural photography. The 210mm
lens has an image circle of 500mm, which permits extreme tilt and shift
camera movements. The 80mm lens has an image circle of 212mm at f/22,
which permits moderate tilt and shift. Information: (631) 761-5000; www.schneideroptics.com.
OctoDome™ has been introduced by Photoflex as a softbox for photographers
who want a large, soft wraparound light modifier for use with strobes.
OctoDome complements the OctoConnector™, a new competitively priced
line of durable connectors designed to fit almost all major lighting fixtures.
Created especially for fashion and portrait photographers, the new OctoDome
uses a rear-mounted light with two layers of diffusion and soft white
interior that deliver much more light than a standard reflective umbrella
and diffuser. Information: (800) 486-2674.
Taprell Loomis has announced the latest Topflight CD Albums, designed
to refine the beauty and protection electronic wedding day treasures.
Three styles in simulated leather include white, black and embossed white.
White and black album covers feature a gold foil border, with embossed
white album covers presenting an embossed wreath circling an “Our
Wedding” description. All styles contain a sturdy, molded plastic
insert for “snap in” CD security. Information: (800) 827-5679;
www.tap-usa.com.
Tamron has announced the delivery of a high quality and compact ultra
tele- zoom lens that covers 75mm to 300mm ultra telephoto with macro capability
yielding a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.9 at the tele end. Best
suited for shooting outdoors, this ultra tele-zoom lens--the AF75-300mm
f/4.56 LD—delivers ultimate handling ease and portability due to
its lightweight size and mechanical operation. Other features: better
image quality with LD element; improved mechanical accuracy and durability;
prevention of internal reflections with thorough surface treatment; well-designed
cosmetic appearance for better handling; and large bayonet hood. Information:
(631) 858-8409; www.tamron.com.
Phase One has announced the development of a high-end Portrait Studio
Solution. This latest innovation enables portrait photographers to completely
digitize their workflow by integrating shooting, image presentation and
image selection into one selling process. The Portrait Studio Solution
is a modular system that fulfills all the requirements in connection with
a digital transition. Apart from a direct digital imaging system, computer,
server and printer from well-known manufacturers, it also provides Phase
One’s own advanced software that facilitates studio management, image
capturing, selling and output processes. All system components are easily
upgraded with the newest technologies. Information: (631) 757-0400; www.phaseone.com.
Phase One has announced enhancements to its highest resolution single-shot
digital system—the new 48MB LightPhase H20. The LightPhase H20 is
designed to work with a wide variety of medium and large format cameras,
including the Hasselblad 555ELD as well as most mechanical Hasselblad
camera bodies. The LightPhase H20 also supports all 4x5 view cameras via
PhaseOne’s FlexAdapter or other adapters as well as the Mamiya RZ67.
Photographers can now take the LightPhase H20 on location using Phase
One’s Portable Solution, which functions as a portable workstation
with its miniature Sony Vaio Picturebook. The LightPhase H20 is designed
with a square 4,020 pixel by 4,020 pixel CCD imaging sensor outputting
files of 48 MB in 24-bit RGB or 128 MB CMYK files in 48-bit format. Information:
(631) 757-0400; www.phaseone.com.
Special Delivery Gifts has introduced PhotoStamps™, which allows
photographers the opportunity to see their client’s favorite image
turned into postage-size, self-adhesive stamps. Sold in multiples of 50,
decorative PhotoStamps add a personal touch to wedding invitations, thank
you cards, birth announcements and greeting cards. Popular stamps include:
Wedding portrait stamps sent on thank you notes; birth announcement stamps
printed with the baby’s name and weight; and “Happy Holidays!”
stamps that feature a child or pet. Advanced printing technology reproduces
images with exceptional quality and resolution, and stickers are perforated
for authenticity. Information: (800) 225-1545; www.photostamps.com.
Ilford Imaging has announced the North American launch of its new Galerie
line of premium desktop inkjet photo paper. Ilford Galerie photo paper
combines state-of-the-art inkjet receiving technology with a sturdy, robust
base to produce optimal results when used with high-speed desktop printers.
The Galerie range includes Galerie Classic Pearl, Galerie Smooth Pearl
and Galerie Smooth Gloss. Classic Pearl uses a traditional inkjet receiving
layer to deliver a classic photographic look and feel, excellent image
stability and consistency from print to print. Both of the Galerie Smooth
papers utilize a new microceramic technology to enable instant drying
of inkjet prints, and both are particularly good for applications that
require quick production of one-off prints. Information: (201) 265-6000;
www.ilford.com/galerie.
Stone Editions’ has announced its Stonehinge System for inkjet printing
and binding elegant, highly permanent albums and portfolios. The patented
system includes three sizes of pre-hinged, ready-to-bind inkjet pages,
European cloth cover sets, translucent interleaves and buffered metal
edge preservation boxes. Stonehinge heavyweight 100 percent cotton rag
Adamant Paper pages feed through most popular archival inkjet printers
creating ready-to-bind images. When used with pigment-based inks, testing
indicates a useful image life expectancy of well over 100 years in a lighted,
behind glass display environment.
Information: (320) 654-0018.
PhaseOne has announced a new leasing plan designed to assist photographers
with a seasonal business. Studios can now lease a Phase One LightPhase
digital camera system and Portable Solution for $300 during the three
slowest months and $900 during the nine busiest months. Customers can
also choose which months are the slowest months. Phase One also offers
other leasing programs in order to meet each studio’s needs and budget.
The programs are extremely flexible, with the ability to choose the length
of the lease term as well as the payment structure. For example, studious
can choose a plan with half payments for the first six months, a 90-day
deferment plan or an Obsolescence Protection Lease. Information: (631)
757-0400; www.phaseone.com.
Kyocera Optics, Inc. recently announced the launch of the Contax N Digital,
the world’s first digital SLR camera to employ a full-frame 35mm,
24 x 36mm, 6+ megapixel CCD. This achievement allows the camera full use
of autofocus Carl Zeiss T* lenses. The N Digital is based on the Contax
N1, which was introduced in the fall of 2000. The N Digital and N1 cameras
share all basic functions as well as the unique features incorporated
in the N1. This includes the Dual Focus Mechanism, the world’s first
5-point Wide Array Diagonal Autofocus System, and Fine Focus ABC (Auto
Bracketing System). The N Digital can offer greater control and creativity
to meet the photographer's demands by incorporating the Dual Focus Mechanism
along with the highly advanced SLR digital image technology. Information:
http://www.contaxcameras.com.
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