PRESS RELEASE: SIGMA 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM announced

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM.

This is the first ultra wide zoom lens with a minimum focal length of 8mm, designed specifically for APS-C size image sensors. This lens has an equivalent angle of view of a 12-24mm lens when used on digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor. The wide-angle of view from 121.2 degrees* produces striking images with exaggerated perspective, enabling photographers to emphasize the subject. Four FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, compensate for color aberration. One hybrid aspherical lens and two glass mold elements give excellent correction for distortion and astigmatism. Incorporating an inner focusing system, the lens produces high definition images throughout the entire zoom range. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting while superior peripheral brightness ensures high contrast images throughout the entire zoom range. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), ensuring quiet and high speed AF as well as full-time manual focus capability. It has a minimum focusing distance of 24cm throughout the entire zoom range which allows photographers to emphasize the subject by creating exaggerated perspectives. This lens has a compact construction with an overall length of 105.7mm and a maximum diameter of 75mm.
*The angle of view varies depending on which camera the lens is mounted on.

Specifications

Lens	SIGMA 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM
Focal length	8-16mm
Maximum aperture	f/4.5-5.6
Minimum aperture	f/22
Lens construction	11 groups 15 elements, 4 FLD glass elements
Angle of view (APS-C crop)	114.5¡-75.7¡
Closest focus distance	24cm (9.4in)
Maximum reproduction ratio	01:07.8
Aperture blades	7
Filter attachment size	TBC
AF motor	HSM motor
Dimensions	75mm x 105.7mm (3.0 in x 4.2 in)
Weight	545g (19.2oz)
Supplied accessories	Case, Petal-type Hood
Mounts	Sigma, Sony, Nikon, Pentax, Canon

Similar Posts:

• SIGMA 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Announced
• SIGMA APO 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Announced
• Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG OS Lens Review
• Sigma Announces 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM Lens
• Sigma Unveils 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM

PRESS RELEASE: SIGMA 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Announced

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM.

This large aperture standard zoom lens is designed for digital SLR cameras and incorporates Sigma’s efficient OS function. It is a compact lens with an overall length of just 91.8mm (3.6”).
This lens covers a focal length from 17mm wide angle and offers a large aperture of F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range, making it ideal for many types of photography such as portraiture and landscapes. The OS (Optical Stabilizer) function offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. For Sony and Pentax mount, the built-in OS function of this lens can be used even if the camera body is equipped with an image sensor shift anti-shake system. As compensation for camera shake is visible in the viewfinder, the photographer can easily check for accurate focus and ensure there is no subject movement. Two FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite glass, plus two glass mold and one hybrid aspherical lens, provide excellent correction for all type of aberrations. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghost. This lens has superior peripheral brightness and provides sharp, high contrast images even at the maximum apertures. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. Incorporating HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), the lens provides fast and quiet AF. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 28cm (11”) throughout the entire zoom range and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5. The rounded 7 blade diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out of focus images. The inner focusing system eliminates front lens rotation, making the lens particularly suitable for use with the supplied petal-type lens hood and circular polarizing filters.

Specifications

Lens	SIGMA 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM
Focal length	17-50mm
Maximum aperture	f/2.8
Minimum aperture	f/22
Lens construction	13 groups 17 elements, 2 FLD glass elements
Angle of view	72.4¡-27.9¡
Closest focus distance	28cm / 11in
Maximum reproduction ratio	1:05
Aperture blades	7 (rounded)
Filter attachment size	77 mm
AF motor	HSM motor
Dimensions	83.5mm x 91.8.8mm (3.3in _ 3.6in)
Weight	TBC
Supplied accessories	Case, Petal-type Hood (LH825-03)
Mounts	Sigma, Sony, Nikon, Pentax, Canon

Similar Posts:

• SIGMA 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM announced
• SIGMA APO 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Announced
• Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG OS Lens Review
• Sigma Announces 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM Lens
• Sigma Unveils 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM

PRESS RELEASE: SIGMA APO 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Announced

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma APO 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM.

This is a 10x high zoom ratio ultra telephoto zoom lens incorporating Sigma’s original Optical Stabilizer function. This lens covers a wide range of focal lengths from 50mm to 500mm ultra telephoto. The OS (Optical Stabilizer) function offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. For Sony and Pentax mount, the built-in OS function of this lens can be used even if the camera body is equipped with an image sensor shift anti-shake system. As compensation for camera shake is visible in the view finder, the photographer can easily check for accurate focus and ensure there is no subject movement. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of color aberration. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghost and ensures high image quality throughout the entire zoom range. This lens has a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1 (at the focal length of 200mm) making it ideal for close-up photography. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), ensuring quiet and high speed AF as well as full-time manual focus capability. The addition of the optional 1.4x EX DG or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 70-700mm F6.3-8 or a 100-1000mm F9-12.6 MF zoom lens respectively. This lens is equipped with a Petal-type hood to block out extraneous light. The filter size of this lens is φ95mm and the lens is supplied with a step down ring enabling digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor to use an φ86mm filter.

This press release provide “as is”. At times Neutralday.com will provide press information un-edited and without editorial comment in order to provide further information without taxing additional endeavors (camera related reviews).

Specifications

Lens	SIGMA APO 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM
Focal length	50-500mm
Maximum aperture	f/4.5-6.3
Minimum aperture	f/22
Lens construction	16 groups 22 elements, 4 SLD glass elements
Angle of view (APS-C crop)	46.8¡-5.0¡
Closest focus distance	50-180cm (9.7-70.9in)
Maximum reproduction ratio	1:3.1 (f=200mm)
Aperture blades	9 (rounded)
Filter attachment size	95 mm
AF motor	HSM motor
Dimensions	104.4mm x 219mm (4.1 in x 8.6 in)
Weight	1970g (69.5oz)
Supplied accessories	Case, Petal-type Hood (LH1030-01), Step down ring, Shoulder Strap, Tripod socket TS-31
Optional accessories	Sigma DG UV 95mm, Sigma DG Circular Polarizer 95mm, APO Teleconverter 1.4x EX DG, APO Teleconverter 2x EX DG
Mounts	Sigma, Sony, Nikon, Pentax, Canon

Similar Posts:

• SIGMA 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Announced
• SIGMA 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM announced
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• Sigma Announces 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM Lens
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Sigma Announces APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Lens

Sigma has announced the APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens which features new optics and image stabilization good for a claimed 4 stops. There is no word yet on pricing or availability, but this offering from Sigma is surely bound to be the affordable alternative to similar offerings from Canon and Nikon.

Specifications

Specifications of the new Sigma lens, with comparisons to the new releases from Canon and Nikon as well.

Press Release

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma APO 70-200 F2.8 EX DG OS HSM.

This large aperture telephoto zoom lens incorporates Sigma’s original Optical Stabilizer function.

The lens covers a medium telephoto range of focal lengths from 70mm to 200mm and has a large maximum aperture of F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range. The OS (Optical Stabilizer) function offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. For Sony and Pentax mount, the built-in OS function of this lens can be used even if the camera body is equipped with an image sensor shift anti-shake system. As compensation for camera shake is visible in the view finder, the photographer can easily check for accurate focus and ensure there is no subject movement. Two FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, and three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of color aberration. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range and an optimum optical power layout provides superior optical quality in all shooting ranges from close-up to infinity. Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghost. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), ensuring a quiet and high speed AF as well as full-time manual focus capability. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 140cm (55.1”) throughout the entire zoom range and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:8. The rounded 9 blade diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out of focus images. This lens is equipped with a Petal-type hood. For digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor, a dedicated hood adapter, which expands the length of the lens hood, is supplied.Similar Posts:

• None Found

Sigma Unveils 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM

Sigma has unveiled a very appealing 85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM lens, that seems well suited for portrait work. The 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM features a hyper sonic focus motor, a 9 blade diaphragm and ships with a petal-type lens hood.

No word yet on pricing or availability.

Specifications

Press Release

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM.

This large aperture medium telephoto lens optimized for use with digital SLR cameras features a focal length of 85mm, ensuring a natural perspective. The large aperture of F1.4 is especially ideal for portrait and low light photography. When used on digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor, the lens effectively becomes a 127.5mm F1.4 lens. One SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element and one glass mold element give excellent correction for all types of aberrations and ensure superior optical performance. This lens is equipped with a rear focus system that minimizes fluctuation of aberration caused by focusing. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghost even in backlight photography. Incorporating HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), this lens provides quiet and high speed AF as well as full-time manual focus capability. It features a minimum focusing distance of 85cm and a maximum magnification 1:8.6. This lens has a round 9 blade diaphragm which creates an attractive blur to the out of focus images.

This lens is supplied with a Petal-type hood to block out extraneous light. For digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor, a dedicated hood adapter, which expands the length of the lens hood, is supplied and enables the hood to block out extraneous light more effectively.Similar Posts:

• SIGMA 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Announced
• SIGMA 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM announced
• SIGMA APO 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Announced
• Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG OS Lens Review
• Sigma Announces 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM Lens

Nikon has released two new full frame lenses, an AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm f/4G ED VR offering 4 stops of image stabilization, and an AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4 G ED lens that provides Nikon photographers with a very fast wide angle option.

The AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is scheduled to be available in late February for $1259.95. The AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4 G ED lens will be available in late March 2010 for $2199.95.

Press Release follows.

Press Release

The Ultra-Wide 16-35mm f/4 VR and Ultra-Fast 24mm f/1.4 Lenses Provide Photographers With New Perspectives and Creative Versatility

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Feb. 8, 2010) – Nikon Inc. today announced two new lenses for professional and enthusiast photographers that epitomize NIKKOR leadership in optical excellence. The highly anticipated AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED lens is engineered to meet the demand for an ultra-fast professional lens for wide angle applications, while the AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR offers Nikon’s widest FX-format focal range with VR, offering additional versatility to a broad range of photographers.

“The 16-35mm f/4 VR and 24mm f/1.4 are two new lenses designed to address the needs of an ever-expanding number of Nikon FX-format photographers, delivering dramatic perspectives, amazing clarity, contrast and color when capturing stills or HD video,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “Customers that choose these new lenses will experience excellent image quality and sturdy handling, which is made possible through our commitment to excellence and expert NIKKOR engineering.”

World renowned NIKKOR technologies play an essential role in the design of these two new lenses, and both feature Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology for quiet, fast and accurate autofocus performance. The optical construction of both lenses also utilizes precision Nikon ED glass elements along with multiple aspherical elements to suppress chromatic aberrations resulting in sharp, high contrast images. Additionally, Nikon’s proprietary Nano-Crystal Coat minimizes instances of internal “ghosting” and flaring, further ensuring exceptional image integrity.

The 24mm f/1.4G ED Lens

Perhaps one of the most hotly anticipated lenses in recent memory, the new AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED lens blends a natural yet versatile 24mm perspective with an ultra-fast f/1.4 aperture to expand an existing collection of well over 60 NIKKOR interchangeable lenses. The f/1.4 maximum aperture allows photographers to shoot handheld in low light and provides dramatic separation between subject and a softened background. In a wide variety of photographic situations, both FX and DX-format shooters will enjoy the benefits of extra-bright f/1.4 viewing, superb image quality and the dramatic perspectives afforded by a picture angle of 84 degrees (61 degrees when mounted on a DX-format body).

The 16-35mm f/4 VR Lens Brings a New Perspective to VR

The new AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR lens is an ideal lens for enthusiasts and professionals craving a constant maximum aperture and ultra-wide angle zoom versatility with the benefits of Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) II image stabilization. As the widest FX-format NIKKOR zoom lens with VR, users can realize the ability to shoot up to four shutter speeds slower than otherwise possible, expanding low light shooting opportunities and contributing to dramatically sharper handheld photography and video capture. Nikon VR II image stabilization technology is engineered specifically for and optimized to function most effectively for each lens, ensuring optimum performance. Whether joining the growing ranks of FX-format photographers or using the Nikon DX-format, photographers will appreciate the perspectives possible when shooting architecture, interiors, landscapes and more.

Pricing and Availability

The versatile, wide angle AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is scheduled to be available in late February 2010 at Nikon Authorized Dealers with an estimated selling price of $1259.95*. The ultra-fast AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4 G ED lens will be available in late March 2010 for estimated selling price of $2199.95*. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.Similar Posts:

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Canon has announced the successor to the highly regarded EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens. Now named the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, this latest iteration aims to improve optics, minimum focusing distances, and image stabilization ability (check the press release below for all the details). The current version is a staple in nearly every pro photographer’s camera bag, and I feel quite certain that a good many are eagerly waiting to get their hands on the successor. The  EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM will be available this Spring.

Availability

• Check Amazon for availability

Specifications

Press Release

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

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. The 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.Similar Posts:

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Yes it’s big and beautiful. Nikon has announced the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens, which sports Nikon’s latest iteration of vibration reduction good for four stops of vibration reduction. Dust and weather sealed, the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens will not come cheaply, no this is quite the budget buster, checking in at US $5,899.95, but for sports and wildlife photographers, it’s likely to be money well spent.

Additionally, Nikon has announced a new teleconverter, the AF-S TC-20E III, which is the first teleconverter to feature an aspherical element, designed to reduce aberrations. The 2x converter would turn the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens into a 600mm lens, but reduce its aperture 2 stops to f/5.6. The AF-S TC-20E III will cost US $499.95, and both products will begin shipping in January.

Availability

The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II is now available for pre-order at Amazon.

• Nikon 300mm f/2.8G AF-S ED VR II Nikkor Super Telephoto Prime Lens at Amazon: $5899.95

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Specifications

Press Release

NIKON CONTINUES PURSUIT OF OPTICAL EXCELLENCE WITH TWO NEW PROFESSIONAL-GRADE NIKKOR PRODUCTS

The New AF-S 300mm f/2.8 Lens and TC-20E III Teleconverter Focus on Super Telephoto

MELVILLE, N.Y. (December 9, 2009) – Nikon Inc. today announced two new NIKKOR optics that deliver the pinnacle of image quality for professional photographers who demand super telephoto capabilities. The new, fast aperture AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II super telephoto lens and AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III deliver images with stunning edge-to-edge sharpness and clarity throughout the frame. Continued refinements and new technologies such as Vibration Reduction (VR) II and optimized autofocus (AF) modes in the lens enhance functionality and improve performance for discerning FX and DX-format digital SLR photographers.

“The latest edition of the NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8 lens advances one of the most popular fast-aperture focal lengths for sports, nature and wildlife photography, demonstrating Nikon’s commitment to professional photographers through the continued development of the optical fidelity and sharpness for which NIKKOR lenses are famous,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “Offering compatibility with a wide range of NIKKOR optics, including the new 300mm f/2.8, the TC-20E III teleconverter enables photographers to greatly extend the versatility of a variety of zoom and telephoto lenses they carry.”

Whether photographing nature in the wild or the battles at a line of scrimmage, the 300mm f/2.8 is an essential tool for photographers who require the highest level of image quality for publication and printing. This 300mm lens effectively leverages a host of Nikon core technologies, including Nikon VR II image stabilization, specifically engineered for each lens design for maximum performance. VR II instills confidence by counteracting image blur introduced by camera shake and telephoto magnification, allowing users to shoot up to four shutter speed stops* slower than otherwise possible, overcoming many of the challenges of handheld shooting. If tripod shooting is preferred, the Tripod Detection Mode will detect and compensate for tripod-specific vibrations.

This professional lens is constructed of die-cast magnesium for maximum durability and is strategically sealed to resist dust and moisture, with protective Meniscus glass to safeguard the lens’ front element. The optical formula features three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements for superior sharpness, color and image quality, while minimizing chromatic aberration. Additionally, an aspherical element is used to promote image integrity throughout the frame, suppress coma and minimize distortion. The lens also features Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology which enables high-speed autofocus performance with exceptional accuracy and powerful, super-quiet operation. Nikon’s exclusive Nano Crystal Coat prevents instances of ghosting and flare for even greater image clarity.

The AF-S 300mm f/2.8 lens features a host of professional focusing features that further enhance functionality. Photographers can now select from three focus modes to match shooting conditions, including manual mode (M) and autofocus with manual priority (M/A) mode, and the new A/M mode. The A/M mode enhances AF control with fast, secure switching from automatic and manual focus to adapt to personal shooting preference and techniques. Additionally, users can also activate the AF Recall Mode at the press of a button that allows for instant return to a predetermined point of focus to capture anticipated shots confidently.

Nikon’s professional grade teleconverters, including the new AF-S TC-20E III are ideal companions to the new NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8 and other select lenses to create an affordable and portable gateway to extended telephoto photography. The new TC-20E III effectively doubles the focal length of select lenses, and is the world’s first teleconverter to feature an aspherical element to virtually eliminate coma and other aberrations even at wide apertures.

Price and Availability
The AF-S X NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers with an estimated selling price of $5,899.95. The Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III will be available for estimated selling price of $499.95**. Availability of both products is scheduled to begin in January, 2010. For more information, please visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

# # #

* As determined in Nikon performance tests
** Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.Similar Posts:

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Pentax has announced the PENTAX D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR lens, which features a weather-resistant construction that would be well suited with one of Pentax’s weather resistant camera bodies, like the Pentax K-7. The PENTAX D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR offers an equivalent focal length of 153mm and allows users to get up to 5 inches to their subject matter. The PENTAX D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR will ship in January for $849.95

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PENTAX D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR

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Press Release

GOLDEN, COLORADO (December 9, 2009) – PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the smc PENTAX D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR lens designed for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. Combining a high-quality exterior finish with PENTAX-original weather-resistant construction, this new macro lens is especially useful for the demands of outdoor photography.

This PENTAX macro lens features a high-grade, aluminum barrel with the high-quality, exclusive exterior design and finish unique to the PENTAX D FA series lenses. Further, the entire mechanism of the focus ring has been reviewed and upgraded to assure flawless manual-focus operation. For improved performance, the PENTAX D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR is the first PENTAX interchangeable macro lens featuring a completely rounded diaphragm blade to create a natural, beautiful bokeh at wide apertures, while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources.

PENTAX WR lenses feature simplified weather-resistant construction to repel water and moisture. Combined with a PENTAX weather-resistant K-7, K20D, K200D or K10D digital SLR camera body, the lens performs well in damp, inclement outdoor conditions including rain, mist, water spray and splashes.

The lens also features the PENTAX-original SP (Super Protect) surface coating to repel dust, water and grease and to minimize fingerprints.

Other significant features of this latest WR lens include:

* Mounted on a PENTAX digital SLR camera body, this lens offers a focal length equivalent to 153mm in the 35mm format for high-quality, true-to-life images, while minimizing flare and ghost images. The maximum life-size magnification allows photographers to capture dramatic close-up images with great ease.
* A working distance of just over five inches (13 cm) facilitates close-up photography of subjects including flora, insects, and wildlife.
* The PENTAX-developed Quick-Shift Focus System for instant switching to manual-focus operation after the subject is captured in focus by the camera’s AF system.
* An image circle to accommodate 35mm film-format camera image size.
* Compatibility with the macro adapter included in the PENTAX AF160FC dedicated Auto Macro Ring Flash.

The PENTAX D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR lens will ship in January 2010 for USD $849.95.Similar Posts:

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• Sigma Announces 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM Lens

Sigma has announced an optically stabilized version of their 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro lens. The optical stabilization added to the lens will provide (according to Sigma) four stops  of stabilization in a focal length equivalent of 24-105mm. Minimum focus is pegged at 8.7 inches and the 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM offers a maximum magnification of 1:2.7. The “DC” badging means this lens is intended for APS-C DSLR owners, but this will make a compelling choice for folks shooting with cropped Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sony, and Sigma mounts. The 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM is now available in stores for $680 (MSRP).

Availability

Amazon is already offering pre-orders on the 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM. Note the pricing is a very reasonable $449.

• Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Lens for Sony Mount Digital SLR Cameras at Amazon: $449

Specifications

Press Release

Sigma Corporation adds unique, anti-shake technology to award-winning 17-70mm lens
‘Ultimate standard lens’ now available in Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sony and Sigma mounts

RONKONKOMA, N.Y., Dec. 4, 2009 – Sigma Corporation (www.sigmaphoto.com), a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world’s most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, is pleased to announce its newly upgraded 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM lens.

This large aperture, standard zoom lens contains state-of-the-art enhancements, including the company’s own Optical Stabilization (OS), anti-shake technology that offers the use of shutter speeds approximately four stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Once again, only Sigma has made it possible for Pentax and Sony shooters to utilize an anti-shake system in either the lens or the camera body.

This lens’ predecessor, the 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC Macro HSM, was deemed a “Best Buy” recommendation for photographers wishing to purchase a standard zoom lens as part of the Canadian Association for Photographic Art’s (CAPA) “Best Lens of the Year” awards.

“Aside from the OS technology, which is key when shooting with mid-range and high-end class DSLRs, this lens stands apart from the crowd because of its impressive zoom range,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, general manager of Sigma Corporation of America. “It has a 4x zoom range that is equivalent to 24-105mm lenses in full-frame formats. That, coupled with the OS technology and a macro function, makes it the ultimate standard lens for serious photographers who want top-notch image quality and functionality at an affordable price.”

With a large aperture of F2.8 on the wide end and F4 at the tele end, as well as a macro function with a minimum focusing distance of 8.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7, this lens is ideal for a wide range of photography. The lens’ Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) also ensures a quiet and high speed auto focus, while its rounded, seven-blade diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas to provide the optimal Bokeh effect. The inner focusing system eliminates front lens rotation, making the lens particularly suitable for using the supplied petal-type lens hood and circular polarizing filters.

Three aspherical lenses and one Extraordinary Low Dispersion (ELD) glass element provide excellent correction for all types of aberrations when shooting with this lens. Additionally, the Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting to produce high-contrast images.

The 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM lens is currently available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon (D), Sony (D) and Pentax mounts for $680 MSRP in stores nationwide.

To locate an authorized Sigma dealer near you, visit www.sigmaphoto.com/where/where.asp. For information about Sigma Corporation of America, visit www.sigmaphoto.com.

About Sigma Corporation
For nearly 50 years, Sigma Corporation’s expertise and innovation has driven the company’s core philosophy of “knowledge, plus experience, plus imagination,” with an emphasis on producing high-quality, high-performance photographic technology at moderate prices. This family-owned organization is the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 40 lenses that are compatible with most manufacturers, including Sigma, Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus and Pentax.  Sigma Corporation also produces digital SLR cameras and high-definition digital compact cameras. The company is headquartered in Japan, with offices strategically located throughout Europe, Asia and North America. For information, please visit www.sigmaphoto.com.Similar Posts:

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