Just plug it in to your iPad, then plug in either the SD card from your camera, or your camera via a USB cable, and the iPad will display the photos available to import. You can then either import them all or choose which photos to import. Once on your iPad, they will appear in the iPhoto-type app, and will get sync’d back to your computer via iTunes.

When you email photos from your iPad, they will go out as either 2048×1536 for typical 4:3 point-and-shoot images, or 2048×1364 for 3:2 DSLR images, with the EXIF data stripped out. However, if you manually add the photo into your email using copy and paste, you get the full resolution image, along with the EXIF data.

Users are reporting that the iPad copes with RAW images, as well as JPEG. The RAW images are transferred onto the iPad with no modifying of the files, and then when you connect the iPad to your computer, you can import the original RAW files into your application, just as normal, which is great news.

You can also import movies from your camera, but it appears as if the iPad may change the format.

It appears that you can use the USB dongle for more than just connecting the camera.
USB headphone/headset will work on the iPad through the connection kit:-

• Tidbits is reporting you can plug in a headset or microphone, making it possible to either listen to music or take a VoIP call with normally computer-oriented add-ons. The call quality is “terrific”.
• TUAW is reporting that USB keyboards can be used.

This article is from our sister site Temple of iPad.

There’s a whole gallery of photos available over at Gary Cruz’s Flickr Canon Mode Dial Macbook Sticker set.

Update: Suzie now has added a Mode Dial Vinyl Decal for all you Nikon, Canon 5D MkII and Leica owners.

Have you ever wondered why the humble camera strap is the way it is?

Black Rapid RS-5 camera strap

Landscape photography was not so bad. I’d put my kit in a photographer’s rucksack, the weight was evenly distributed, and those hills stayed still long enough for me to get my gear out and set up without missing the shot.

But photography while sightseeing, or walking about an urban environment didn’t work so well. My manufacturer-supplied camera strap would pull on my neck and back if used in the traditional position (which also left the view screen banging onto coat fasteners – and led to a scratched screen), or if I slung it ‘bandolier-style’ across my body, that left the lens sticking out from my hip for passers-by to jostle.

Presumably Ron Henry, the founder of Black Rapid and an experienced music and wedding photographer had the same problems, because he invented a range of camera straps to make carrying cameras more comfortable and easier and quicker to handle.

Pay money for a camera strap? My camera came with one included!

Black Rapid FastenR connected

The Black Rapid RS-5 is well made, with strong stitching, a padded area and a breathable mesh underside where the weight rests on your shoulder. It attaches to your camera using the tripod mount, using Rapid’s FastenR (a connector made from solid stainless steel, with a D-ring and a high-grade rubber compression washer that ensures a good, tight fit). One advantage of this is that if you have a large lens with a tripod mount, you can attach the strap to that, helping the balance when you carry it. The length of the strap is adjustable, so you can get your camera hanging in a convenient position so that your hand falls on the camera grip. When you grip your camera and move it up to eye level, the connector slides up the strap, ensuring it doesn’t ride up. The strap also has useful pockets big enough for a battery, memory card and mobile ‘phone.

I’ve taken my Black Rapid RS-5 strap on a few trips, where I knew that I didn’t want to carry a hefty camera bag around, and wanted quick access to my camera for street photography. Five days in Paris was great, and I got plenty of shots that I’d have missed if my camera was in a bag, and had no difficulties with the weight of the camera. I also felt more comfortable with the way the camera rests by your side, with the lens perpendicular to your body – no more jostling against passers-by or worries about banging the lens.

Conclusion

It seems ridiculous that I spent a small fortune on camera bodies and lenses, yet all this time a $65 camera strap could have made using them much more comfortable and convenient. My Canon strap is now at the back of a drawer, never to see the light of day again. Highly recommended.

Here’s a video that shows the ergonomics of the strap.

The Panasonic Lumix GF1 is available from Amazon.com in the following configurations:-

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 with 20mm f/1.7 Aspherical Lens

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 with 14-45mm Lens

“Do you want a compact 12mp system that almost rivals a 5D, fits in your pocket and produces knockout results? A landscape camera capable of truly remarkable images, with RAW output that will literally make you double take? A hiking companion without compromise? Bridging the gap at last, the GF-1 has me spellbound.”

Read about his experience in his article Panasonic GF-1 Review in the Landscape.

If you are interested in how David manages to achieve such an impressive depth of focus on this camera, read the comments below the article, where he explains how to focus the lens hyperfocally when you have no lens markings.

Reviews

Click links for full reviews.

DPReview – Highly Recommended

“with the excellent low-profile 20mm F1.7 lens attached the GF1 becomes a sublime thing that (if you can live without a zoom) genuinely fills the yawning gap twixt the worlds of compact cameras and SLRs. It’s fast, fun, capable of stunning results in raw mode (and competitive results in JPEG mode), offers decent HD movie capture, and has enough features to satisfy even the most enthusiastic tweaker.”

The Luminous Landscape

“In the final analysis what we come down to is that the GF1 is likely the best of breed at the moment, but not a panacea for someone looking for a semi-pocketable large sensor camera.”

Camera Labs – 85%

“So our review of the fourth Micro Four Thirds body is another glowing one, and in many respects the GF1 is the best model yet. It’s a lot less physically compelling when fitted with the 14-45mm zoom, but mount the 20mm and you’ll have one of the most satisfying combinations we’ve used for a long time – and one which easily comes Highly Recommended. Of course, fit this lens on the E-P1 instead and you’ll enjoy the benefit of stabilisation too – but as we said a moment ago, regardless of how many times we cover the pros and cons, you’ll already have your favourite body and are unlikely to be swayed.”

Imaging Resource

“Overall, the Panasonic GF1 is an extremely good camera for such a small package, recording impressive detail thanks to its quality sensor, image processor, and fine optics.”

MacWorld – 4 out of 5

“The DMC-GF1 provides a very satisfying shooting experience. Responsive and easy to work with, the camera has a sound and feel that is very similar to a 35mm rangefinder camera.”

ByThom compares the GF1 to the Olympus E-P1, particularly with respect to jpeg quality, and scores it 3/5.

Software Support

The GF1 RAW file format is recognised by Adobe Camera Raw and Apple’s Aperture version 3.

Eye-Fi Support

I was interested in whether the Eye-Fi range of cards would work on the GF1, as it could provide an easy way to geotag. I asked the following in the Eye-Fi forums:-

Panasonic Lumix GF1 + EyeFi Geo + Aperture 3?

I’m wondering if this combination would work?

I think the tricky thing would be that I use RAW format instead of jpeg. What would happen to the geotagging information?

Maybe if the GF1 can shoot RAW+jpeg, the geo data would be embedded in the jpeg, and I could marry the info up with the RAW in Aperture?

The Eye-Fi guys replied:-

The Geo card does not transfer RAW images only the Pro Cards can do that, and only JPGs can be geo-tagged by the Eye-Fi Cards.

So to answer your question if you used a Pro Card with your Lumix and shoot in RAW+Jpeg you can then use the geo-data from the Jpegs to add it into the RAW files using Aperture. Also please keep in mind that the Eye-Fi Cards do not import directly into Aperture, only to a folder on the Mac (or into iPhoto) so you will have to import them yourself.

Since I have an iPhone, I decided to use that to geoteg my photos within Aperture 3.

Canon have revised the optical design to reduce chromatic aberrations, reduced the minimum focussing distance to 1.2m and increased the size of the focussing ring. If you’ve already invested in accessories like extenders, they remain compatible.

Press release follows…

The new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM – Canon’s essential, high-quality, telephoto zoom lens for professionals

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland 5th January 2010 – Canon today adds to its acclaimed L-series with the launch of the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM telephoto zoom lens. This new lens launches as the successor to the immensely popular EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM, offering improved performance in every area.

True to the L-series’ heritage, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM delivers optical excellence in the most challenging situations. As well as a revamp of the internal optical system, the lens has also been structurally re-developed as a direct result of user feedback, making it as robust and reliable as it is optically advanced.

“Reuters photographers have used the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM for a number of years and it allows photographers a great level of flexibility,” said Reuters Production Editor Kevin Coombs. “The focal length, fast aperture and Image Stabilizer all contribute to it being a workhorse lens and you’ll find it in many professional photographers’ camera bags. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the improvements offered by the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM.”

Premium quality, premium performance

The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features a re-designed optical system, consisting of 23 elements in 19 groups to deliver truly impressive results. A high-performance
fluorite element is used at the heart of the lens path, coupled with no fewer than five ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements, drastically reducing chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range to produce high contrast images with edge-to-edge definition.

A high-speed Auto Focus (AF) system perfectly matches the abilities of the recently- launched EOS-1D Mark IV and EOS 7D Digital SLR (DSLR) cameras. The new model also features a ring-type USM AF motor, which combines with a new high-speed CPU and an optimised AF algorithm to make auto focusing both faster and quieter.

A reduced minimum focusing distance of 1.2 metres (3.9 ft) and improved 0.21x magnification will allow photographers to get closer to subjects without needing to swap lenses – greatly benefitting time-pressured news and events photographers who require flexibility. An updated Image Stabilizer mechanism also offers a shutter speed advantage equivalent to four-stops, reducing the effect of image blur resulting from camera shake in busy shooting environments.

Enhanced design, exceptional ease of use

As well as an update to the internal construction, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features an enhanced external appearance to improve lens operation. The thickness of protruding exterior parts and switches has been significantly reduced, guarding against accidental switching and creating an improved overall look. The rubber focusing grip has also been redesigned and widened; with finely-patterned grooves making it easier to manually focus.

Being an L-series lens, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is fully weatherproof, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions. The mount, focus mode switch and focusing ring all feature a completely dust and drip-proof structure, preventing dust or water from getting inside the camera and lens when used with accompanying weatherproof EOS bodies. The lens has been designed to stand up to the daily wear and tear of professional usage, making it a highly durable, reliable lens for use day-to-day by professional photographers.

High quality L-series accessories

The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is supplied with several accessories, including the new ET-87 Lens Hood and the Ring-Type Tripod Collar B (W). A brand new Lens Case
LZ1326 is also included as standard, offering quick and easy access when users need to switch lenses in time-pressured situations.

Compatibility with a range of optional Canon accessories also allows users to pair the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM with the Lens Extender EF 1.4x II, Lens Extender EF 2x II, Extension Tube EF 12 II, Extension Tube EF 25 II, and 77mm filters.

Pricing and Availability

The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is available from the end of February 2010 .

Specification sheet

Optical Features/Specifications

Angle of view (horizontal, vertical, diagonal): 29° – 10°, 19°30′ – 7°, 34°- 12°
Lens construction (elements/groups): 23/19
No. of diaphragm blades: 8
Minimum aperture: 32
Closest focusing distance (m): 1.2
Maximum magnification (x): 0.21 (at 200mm)
Distance information: Provided
Image stabilizer: 4 -stops
AF actuator: Ring USM[1]

Physical Specifications

Dust/moisture resistance2: Yes
Filter diameter (mm): 77
Max. diameter x length (mm): 88.8 x 199
Weight (g): 1490g

Accessories

Lens cap: E-77U
Lens hood: ET-87
Lens case/pouch: LZ1326
Maximum number of Hood III compatible with Gelatin Filter Holder III: Not compatible
Maximum number of Hood IV compatible with Gelatin Filter Holder IV: 1
Magnification with Extension Tube EF12 II: 0.28 – 0.06
Magnification with Extension Tube EF25 II: 0.36 – 0.14
Extender compatiblity: Compatible

[1] Full time manual focus.
[2] Lenses with dust/moisture resistance are fitted with a rubber ring on the lens mount which may cause slight abrasion of the camera mount. This in no way effects either the lens or camera performance.

Subject to change without notice.

All data is based on Canon standard testing methods except where indicated.

1. They want to see some of my photos
2. They want the address of my web site
3. I don’t have any photos to show them, nor a pen and paper to scrawl down my web site details on

I thought I should finally remedy these things, so the question was, How?

Business cards are, well, let’s face it, for squares like accountants and solicitors, and being a photographer, I needed something cool and creative. So I ordered some Moo MiniCards.

What are Moo MiniCards?

Moo MiniCards are like business cards, but far, far funkier. They have less height, and Moo will print your photos on one side, and your details on the other.

How many photos can you use? Try a different photo on every card (of course, you don’t have to have a different photo on every card, but it wouldn’t feel right to have them all the same).

The clever thing with the photos is that you don’t have to prepare and upload every one. Moo can talk to your Flickr, Bebo, Etsy or Facebook account, and grab the images from there. You then get to position the card template over the area of your image you want printed. It’s easy and simple.

What are they like?

I ordered some cards to promote my personal website, and a holder. They came well packaged, and greeted me with a cheery message. The Moo guys obviously have an eye for detail and a sense of humour.

The holder is designed to open with one hand, and swivel to reveal your cards. It comes with a welcome card and some discount cards to give your friends.

The cards themselves are really nice – they are made from a thick card, and are laminated, giving them a satin finish. The colours are true to the original photos, and the black and white ones show no colour cast and smooth tones.

The cards sit perfectly in the holder, and are easily slid out with your thumb.

I’ve been very impressed with the Moo MiniCards. They are of a higher quality than I had expected, and at the time I ordered, cost £11.99 (UK) or $19.99 (US) for 100. I’ve already given away all my discount cards to friends who want to order some for themselves, so I can’t be alone in admiring them!

Moo MiniCards have developed a bit of a cult following – they even have a flickr group with over 10,000 members, dedicated to people showing off their designs.

Moo MiniCards are available from Moo.com, and ship worldwide.

Press Release

New Lightroom beta delivers faster performance, refined image processing and streamlined publishing

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Oct. 22, 2009 —Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today introduced Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 3 beta software for Macintosh and Windows®, a public preview of new and improved functionality to be delivered in the next major release. Lightroom is the essential digital photography workflow solution, helping serious amateur and professional photographers quickly import, manage, enhance and showcase all their images from one application. Available as a free download on Adobe Labs, Lightroom 3 beta delivers a preview of new tools that will be in Lightroom 3, including more intuitive importing, unparalleled noise reduction and sharpening tools, enhanced slideshow capabilities and direct publishing to online photo sharing sites like Flickr®. Adobe encourages photographers to test this early selection of new features and provide the product team with their feedback.

“We are extremely fortunate that a strong community of photographers have rallied around Lightroom, helping to evolve the application and making it a meaningful part of their photographic workflows,” said Kevin Connor, vice president of product management for Professional Digital Imaging at Adobe. “While we’re still hard at work on Lightroom 3, we recognize the value our customers bring to the development process and want their input so we can deliver the best final product possible.”

New in Lightroom 3 Beta
Lightroom 3 beta has been completely redesigned with under-the-hood efficiencies to better handle growing image libraries and improve responsiveness with a higher-quality processing engine. In the Library module, a rebuilt import system makes bringing photos into the software more intuitive. Users can easily specify the source and destination of their images, and save common processing, metadata or destination settings as easy-to-reuse presets.

The Library module also includes new capabilities to publish collections on popular photo-sharing sites. Flickr users now have direct access to their accounts from within Lightroom and can drag and drop images directly into their Photostreams. Flickr Pro account users can automatically synch their images and even view comments made on Flickr directly within the Library. This functionality can be extended to additional sites by adding them as new plug-ins once they become available.

In the Develop module, an overhauled processing engine allows users to create the highest quality images. Improved Capture Sharpening and Color Noise Reduction tools provide superior results while still preserving an image’s edge detail and contrast. A new Grain tool adds a film-style grain to images, and two new Vignette modes help photographers get a more natural look.

Lightroom 3 beta also offers advanced output options, including the ability to export slideshows as videos with audio and title screens that can be posted to video-sharing sites or optimized for mobile media. New watermarking capabilities enable photographers to embed text or graphic information directly on an image and then adjust the size, position and opacity. In addition, photographers can customize print layouts and save settings for future use, giving them refined control over their images.

Adobe Photoshop Family
Adobe Photoshop CS4 and Photoshop CS4 Extended software are at the heart of the Photoshop family, joined by solutions for users at every level who want to bring out the best in their digital images. Photoshop Lightroom addresses the workflow needs of serious amateur and professional photographers, helping them manage, find, enhance and showcase images in impactful ways. Adobe Photoshop Elements software provides exciting tools and sharing options for photo enthusiasts. Lastly, snap shooters can access Photoshop.com for free to simply fix and enhance photos, and quickly share those images on Photoshop.com or on social-networking sites.

Pricing and Availability
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 beta is available as a free download to anyone on both Macintosh and Windows platforms. Visit to learn more and download the beta. Feedback can be submitted on the Lightroom forums: http://forums.adobe.com/community/lightroom. Users also can connect with Adobe at www.facebook.com/lightroom or www.twitter.com/AdobeLR, and can add the tag #AdobeLR3beta to tweets about the Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 beta.