To start, Google brought up the recently-announced change to the way the company is handling the cloud storage space that you get. Google is now giving users 15GB to split amongst Gmail, Google Drive, and Google+ Photos. If you use Google+ Photos the most, this will give you more space to store full-resolution images, and it seems Google is all about full-res, as they took the time to knock Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, for not uploading photos in full-res.

Google also introduced a new feature that lets Google+ Photos pick the best photos out of a large stack of photos that you took while on vacation or somewhere. Some people take hundreds of photos and they want to pick out the best ones to share. However, Google says they can do that for you now. Based on different factors, certain photos get prioritized or dropped.

Google can recognized what photos are blurry or have poor exposure. These photos get dropped and aren’t featured. However, photos of important places and smiling faces (yes, that cleverly rhymed) get prioritized. Google calls this feature Highlights, and it’s rolling out to Google+ Photos now.

Another Google+ Photos feature is called Auto Enhance, which is essentially Photoshop for dummies, or at least people who don’t want to mess with such a complicated piece of software. The Auto Enhance feature uses Snapseed technology (remember they bought Snapseed awhile back?), and the feature can recognize different facial features such as skin, hairlines, and eyes. The built-in software will then automatically adjust the exposure in certain areas to enhance the photo. This feature is also rolling out now.

Lastly, Google+ Photos is getting something called Auto Awesome, which consists of five of its own features, which include Collage, HDR, Smile, Motion, and Panorama. The Auto Awesome feature can do things like create animations out of different photos that you’ve uploaded. This feature will also begin rolling out today.

The new app from Amazon can automatically upload photos that you take with your iPhone directly to your Amazon Cloud Drive, and within the app, all your photos will be organized and ready to browse or share. However, just like with Dropbox’s automatic photo upload feature, it only works when the app is open due to limitations within iOS.

The Android version of the app launched back in November, and unlike iOS users, the app is able to upload photos directly to Amazon’s Could Drive whether the app is open or not. However, unlike Apple’s Photo Stream, you can view the photos in a web browser from any computer, just like with Dropbox and even Google Drive, which begs the question: Is Amazon’s cloud offerings good enough to take on Google and Dropbox?

Amazon offers users 5GB for free to start out with, and paid options are available for those who need more storage space (plans start at 20GB for $10 per year). With Google Drive, you also get 5GB free, with paid options starting at just $2.49 per month for 25GB). As for Dropbox, you start off with a measly 2GB for free, but can upgrade for $10 per month, which will land you 100GB. So, all of these options clearly offer different paying schemes, but if you’re already invested in Amazon’s ecosystem, the addition of Cloud Drive Photos will be a welcomed.

VIA: PC Mag

SOURCE: iTunes App Store

Olympus has made an effort to point out the similarities between this new PEN E-P5 and what’s considered their premier Micro Four Thirds camera – the Olympus OM-D E-M5. We had our own review of said camera back when it was unveiled this past summer, experiencing the features carried over to this new model: the sensor (mentioned above), FAST AF, and the 5-Axis Image Stabilization (also mentioned above).

The autofocus system in the E-P5 was developed in part in the OM-D E-M5, powering a new Super Spot AF feature which Olympus says is more precise than phase-difference autofocus systems across the board. This system also works with Focus Peaking, “dramatically” improving the usability of any manual focus action you’ll be working with by taking the point of focus and emphasizing its contours in black or white. We’ll see how that works in our first hands-on tests.

The 5-Axis Image Stabilization system has been updated since its first appearance on the OM-D E-M5, here appearing in a more compact form, small enough to fit inside the E-P5. This system can be used to reduce camera shaking while you’re taking photos or, in combination with this unit’s Multi-motion IS feature, helps to create a stable image while recording video.

The PEN E-P5′s wifi system allows the user to wirelessly connect to their smartphone at will. Bringing up the camera’s built-in automatically generated QR-code on its LCD display, the user will be automatically connected to the camera’s wifi network with a quick scan of said QR-code with their smartphone. From there, users will be able to work with the app Olympus Image Share 2.0 for smartphone control, remote viewfinder, and GPS information embeds.

The E-P5 works with several features the photographer may have otherwise needed off-camera software or hardware to recreate, starting with Photo Story+. This feature allows the user to automatically plant a stamp or hand-written signature into each photo they take, this allowing them to upload images automatically with Olympus Image Share 2.0 worry-free. With a signature on top of the photo right out of the gate, sharing with the world can be done in one less step than without this process.

The back of the E-P5 has a tilt-type LCD panel able to be aimed downward at 50-degrees and upward at 80-degrees, allowing for holds low and high. Users also have the option of working with this device’s high-definition VF-4 viewfinder with 1.48x magnification on an LCD with real-time eye detection.

Lenses for the E-P5 include every unit inside the Micro Four Thirds family and, as per usual, there are several versions of this device coming out – some with a lens, some without. There’s a body-only version appearing this month for an estimated street price of $999.99 in black, silver, or white (each of these shown above). Meanwhile there will be just black or silver bodies available for the $1449.99 version of the device, this package bringing with it the black M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 lens and VF-4 Electronic Viewfinder lens.

With this change-over, each service will be clad with a “CC” moniker, so Photoshop CC will be first while the suite is called Adobe CC. The big-shot system known as Photoshop Extended, up until now purchased separate from any regular Photoshop build, is now folded in to the one single Photoshop application: Photoshop CC. Photoshop Extended’s abilities folding in to Photoshop CC include 3D editing as well as higher, more sophisticated image analysis from all directions.

Photoshop CC adds a RAW editing engine as well as some rather odd action with a camera shake reduction engine that, from what the company has shown thus far, really does appear to work miracles for users prone to snapping images without a tripod. Photoshop CC’s camera shake reduction works to push your photo together, so to speak, as your camera tore them apart while your lens moved across an image.

With Photoshop CC’s RAW editing engine, Adobe’s newest version of Lightroom will be taking full effect. Here you’ll be able to make continuous non-destructive RAW edits or work with non-RAW images with extended tools. This release also makes a move with an updated smart sharpen, path selection integration, and a collection of new features adopted cross-service from Illustrator and Lightroom.

At the moment it’s unclear if Photoshop CC will be available to users not wanting to work with the Adobe Creative Cloud and its subscription service fees. It will be interesting to see Adobe attempt to work in the online space where their offline presence has been so full of impact.

Below you’ll find a set of demonstration videos from Adobe detailing some of the features included in this new Photoshop CC setup. First you’ll see Asobe Camera Raw 8 and Layer Support.

Next is Photoshop CC’s demonstration of Camera Shake Reduction. You’ll notice again that this works with the effects of a photo taken with a camera shake, not necessarily one blurred due to an out-of-focus lens.

Finally you’ll see Smart Sharpen, an update to Photoshop’s system that allows you to minimize the noise that would normally appear when you sharpen a photo too much. This system allows for fine-tuning of images for crispness all around.

You can check out an example of a Photo Sphere embed here, and Google details the process of adding a Photo Sphere to your website on their developer support page. The embed will allow you to click and drag around the photo to see a 360-degree view of the subject, as well as having the option of viewing the flat version as well.

In the past, Photo Sphere images were only viewable on the device that it was taken on, or on Google+ and Google Maps (if you added it to Google Maps, that is). The website that you want the embed on will have to have JavaScript first, but once that’s done, all you have to do is paste in a few lines of code and you’re good to go.

Photo Sphere is one of the more popular features in Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, and it lets you take panorama photos that you can then view in a sphere-like manner, rather than just looking at it at a flat perspective like most panorama apps feature. Microsoft’s Photosynth app is the closest that comes to Photo Sphere, but even that has its limitations.

When you upload a photo to Instagram, you’re now able to tag the people that are in the photo, and Instagram says its as easy as adding hashtags. Plus, only you can add people to your photos, which we’re guessing means that other people won’t even be able to request permission to add themselves in a photo like Facebook does.

However, you can only tag people that also have an Instagram account, so it’s definitely a bit limited on who you can tag, especially since you can’t tag Facebook friends, but the service gives you the ability to tag previously-uploaded images to give your collection a bit of uniformity at least.

As for the “Photos of You” section, this is where you can view all photos on Instagram that you’re tagged in, and it appears as a dedicated section on your Instagram profile. For privacy’s sake, Instagram allows you to approve each photo you’re tagged in so that you have control over what shows up in that section. The update is available now on both iOS and Android.

[via Android Community]

Adobe’s group product manager for Lightroom, Tom Hogarty, demonstrated an early prototype of the app on The Grid, which is an online web show hosted by photography guru Scott Kelby. Hogarty goes through some of the features of the app, including adjusting the temperature of a photo, as well as edit RAW files right in the app.

Lightroom iOS demo starts at 18:09:

The app will be constantly synced through the cloud, so while you make edits on your iOS device, the changes will appear on the file on your computer in Lightroom. You can edit certain things like exposure, clarity, shadows, highlights, and white balance, as well as zoom in to 100% for fine detail work on an image.

Of course, the app isn’t a full-fledged version of Lightroom, so you won’t be able to do any of the more advanced stuff, but it still looks like a decent way for photographers to edit their images on the go using something more advanced than iPhoto. Adobe hasn’t named the app yet, but it could be an extension of Lightroom, such as Lightroom Mobile or something along those lines.

[via CNET]

We’re not exactly sure what cities we’re looking at in the photo, but Hadfield points out that its the southeastern United States, with the bigger city toward the right side being Atlanta or Charlotte possibly. In any case, the horizon looks absolutely amazing, and the moon creeping in makes the photo that much more spectacular.

Hadfield not only takes a ton of photos of Earth from the ISS (which you can browse through all of them with this neat interactive map), but he also provides short videos on what it’s like to live on the ISS, and in one of his latest videos, he describes how he takes photos of Earth from the ISS. The secret? A huge lens.

Hadfield primarily uses a Nikon DSLR with a 400mm lens. This is one heavy setup, but thanks to the lack of gravity in space, Hadfield doesn’t need to strain his shoulders or arms lifting and holding the camera. Instead, the camera merely just floats in front of him. Hadfield even says that they take the cameras out on spacewalks into the cold vacuum of space. We’ll be keeping up with Hadfield and the ISS over the next months for any more photos that he posts in the future. Stay tuned!

The camera boasts a thin profile that Panasonic claims is the world’s thinnest for a camera featuring a 5x retractable zoom lens and optical image stabilization. The camera has a 24 mm ultra-wide-angle lens and has 13 in-camera creative effects. Panasonic also integrates its Mega Optical Image Stabilizer technology into the camera to keep your images blur free.

The XS1 offers 16.1-megapixel resolution and has an aperture range of F2.8-6.9. The camera’s focal length is equivalent to 24-120 mm in 35mm camera. It also supports the recording of HD resolution video.

Bursts can be shot in high-speed mode and rated 10 frames per second at reduced resolution. The camera is also now available with 10 different custom designs on the outside of the camera body. It offers designs like various animal skins, camouflage, flowers, and several others. The camera can be ordered right now in any of the 10 new designs, but Panasonic didn’t offer the official pricing details.

[via Panasonic]

The binoculars have a wide zoom magnification range from 0.8x to 25x and feature autofocus. The product also has integrated image stabilization to keep images from being excessively shaky at high zoom levels. The binoculars also capable of recording both 2-D and 3-D images, even in lowlight situations.

The 50V binoculars have a 20.4-megapixel image sensor and can shoot still photos as well as video. Audio recorded along with the video is in stereo format. The binoculars use XGA OLED Tru-Finder electronic viewfinders promising better resolution and contrast for each eye. The image sensor is a Sony Exmor R CMOS unit.

The binoculars also make use of Sony’s BIONZ image processors to provide stereoscopic 3-D images if desired. Users can directly connect the binoculars to a TV using a HDMI output for viewing of images and accessory cable. Power comes from a high-capacity rechargeable battery pack allowing three hours of 2-D recording per charge. The DEV-50V digital recording binoculars will launch in June at a retail price of about $2000.

[via Sony]

The camera features a 12.1-megapixel MOS sensor and high ISO sensitivity for improved performance in lowlight conditions. The camera also features integrated Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity making it easy to share images. The lens is a 35mm equivalent range of 28 mm-200 mm, which equates to a 7.1 times optical zoom range.

On the back of the camera is a three-inch LCD and the camera offers users manual controls over aperture, shutter speed, and zoom. The camera also has a number of creative control and creative retouch features along with 13 different filters that can be applied to images. The Lumix G6 is a significantly larger camera with a 16.05-megapixel Live MOS image sensor.

The camera covers an ISO range of 160 up to 25,600 extended. Panasonic fits the camera with a high-speed autofocus system specifically designed for shooting in low light conditions. The camera also supports face detection and can shoot bursts at up to seven frames per second. Video recording is supported with a 24p video mode and the camera can record full HD resolution video. Other features include a OLED viewfinder and a three-inch angle adjustable display on the rear. The camera also has integrated Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for sharing images. Pricing and availability is unannounced for both of these new cameras.

[via Panasonic and Panasonic]

The Cybershot HX50V utilizes Optical SteadyShot, which is both welcomed and rather essential for producing clear images at the high zoom rates this camera offers. In comparison, 2012′s HX200V model from Sony only offered half this stabilization effectiveness at full zoom. Inside, users will find a BIONZ processor and integrated Wi-Fi, which enables use with a mobile device via the Sony PlayMemories Mobile app. The app allows for both remote control and wireless transfer.

The hardware offered lends itself to more than point-and-shoot photography, and so users who want manual control can use the P/A/S/M modes available via a dial. In addition, an external flash, viewfinder, and microphone, among other accessories, will be available for use via a Multi Interface Shoe. If users don’t want to use a mobile device for remote control, a separate one can be used via a Multi Terminal.

As far as video goes, the Cybershot HX50V can record in up to full high definition utilizing the Optical SteadyShot to keep the video smooth. Tying it in with its BRAVIA TVs, this camera is compatible with Sony’s TRIMUNIOUS Color tech. And finally, there are photo filters, which is quickly becoming the norm on compact cameras. Users will be able to apply effects to both photos and videos.

Available in May for $450.

[via PR Newswire]

There are two different versions of the lens, one built for the full-size iPad and the other built specifically for the iPad mini. The full-size iPad version sports a 10x zoom, while the iPad mini lens has a 12x zoom. The lens also comes with a minimalistic case for your iPad that allows you to attach the lens to the tablet.

The two lenses also have manual focus rings on them so that way you can adjust the photos to your liking, offering you a bit of manual control over the iPad’s camera app, which leaves a lot to be desired in that respect. The lens is about the size of a small handheld flashlight, and it quickly screws on and off the iPad shell for easy storage when you’re not using it.

As for price, you’re looking at $25 for one of these lenses, which isn’t too terrible, considering that a smartphone lens from the same company is around the same price. As far as compatibility, Photojojo says that the full-size iPad lens will only work with the 3rd- and 4th-gen iPads, although you may be able to squeeze it on the iPad 2 if you really wanted to.

The sensor will also support high-resolution video recording. Aptina notes that the new sensor has attracted the attention from some of the leading mirrorless camera makers on the market today. That means the sensor will end up turning up in a number of interchangeable lens cameras before long.

The image sensor takes advantage of Aptina DR-Pix technology to deliver image quality in low light and brightly lit scenes. The sensor is also able to output full 14-megapixel resolution at frame rates of up to 80 FPS. Aptina says the sensor is also capable of providing full 4K video resolution at 60 frames per second.

When using the sensor to record standard full HD resolution video, it’s capable of recording at 120 frames per second. That means the image sensor can shoot full HD resolution video for incredibly slow motion playback. The sensor can also take full resolution photographs without interrupting the 1080p HD video stream.

[via Aptina]

The Ricoh GR is said to build upon the previous GR DIGITAL series, retaining the concept of the product while boosting its specifications and features to create a modern, attractive device. The GR utilizes the GR ENGINE V image processing engine, as well as an APS-C-size CMOS sensor that clocks in at a tad over 16-megapixels. All of this combines to offer an advantage in high-sensitivity shooting situations, according to Pentax.

Focus comes in many forms, with the standard auto-focus button offering an automatic focusing feature, and on the other end there’s manual focus accompanied by a manual focus assist feature to make sure the images come out clear. There’s an aperture preview button as well, with the auto-focus and aperture buttons being new additions to the GR-series of cameras. ISO maxes out at 25600.

Videos can be recorded in full 1080p high definition in 16:9 widescreen format at 30-frames-per-second. In addition, there are a variety of different shooting functions, including a multi-pattern auto white balance mode, dynamic range compensation, and interval composite. Finally, for easy transfer, the GR camera is compatible with the wireless-transfer Eye-Fri SD card, allowing photographers to go wire-free.

Available next month for $800.

[via Pentax]

The added Advanced Healing Brush allows users to heal imperfections and remove distracting elements in photos, and Smart Previews allow users to continue editing photos without the need for original RAW file. Other than that, there’s also the addition of the Upright tool, a Radial Gradient tool, and video slideshows that allow users to combine images, videos, and music to create festive video slideshows.

Lightroom 5 beta is currently compatible with Windows 7 SP 1, Windows 8, Mac OS X 10.7 and 10.8. You can grab the beta right now at no cost for a limited time. Overall, Lightroom 5 seems to be a sizable update over the previous version, and avid users will no doubt enjoy the beta.

Adobe has yet to announce pricing or an exact release date for Lightroom 5, but the beta program will end on June 30, with a release date sometime later this year. The software competes with Apple’s Aperture, and in order to compete with Apple on a more competitive level, Adobe lowered the price of Lightroom to $150, so we should be seeing a similar price with Lightroom 5.

The NX1100 packs in a 20.3MP CMOS sensor that can shoot 8 frames per second in either RAW or JPEG formatting, with up to a 1/4000 shutter speed. The ISO can be cranked all the way up to 12,800 if need be, and videographers out there can use it to shoot full 1080p HD video. The NX1100 sports a 3-inch display, as well as built-in WiFi.

Plus, you can grab companion mobile apps for the camera, either on iOS or Android. As for the kit lens, you’re looking at a 20-50mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, which isn’t anything too special, but what kit lens is these days? However, the camera comes with an external flash in the box to give your photos a little more pep and zing.

If that’s not enough of a deal, though, Samsung is throwing in a free copy of Adobe Lightroom 4, which normally costs a whopping $125, but if you snag the NX1100, you don’t have to pay a dime for it. Plus, if you’re even remotely thinking about jumping into the photography profession, Lightroom is a great tool to have at your disposal.

[via Engadget]

The GF6 with Wi-Fi features a Live MOS Sensor and a Venus Engine, offering ISO up to 25,600. Images come in sharp via the Light Speed AF system, which offers tracking and full-time auto focus for video recording. There’s also low-light auto focus, and when combined with a start-up shooting time of 0.5 seconds, photographers can use this device to shoot in fast-paced environments.

There are several different functions and modes, including Stop Motion Animation, Creative Panorama, and Self-Shot, as well as 19 photo effects with different filters for the Instagram-lover in you. There’s Clear Retouch for in-camera editing to remove blemishes and other unwanted parts of an image. There’s also the standard P/A/S/M modes, including for video recording, which goes up to full 1080p HD.

Once taken, an image can be easily transferred to a smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity and Panasonic’s Image App, which is available for both Android and iOS. In addition, photos can be taken and videos can be recorded remotely using a mobile device, which works as an external monitor and remote shutter. Focusing, zoom, and device settings can all be controlled from the device as well.

[via DPReview]

The two cameras actually leaked earlier this morning, thanks to premature marketing banners that were put up during the show. However, Blackmagic has made it official, introducing a video camera capable of filming in 4K resolution, as well as a compact micro four thirds shooter, both of which are necessarily cheap. The design scheme is similar to Blackmagic’s Cinema Camera that they launched last year, but this compact model has a much lower price tag.

The Pocket Cinema Camera is a $1,000 camera that packs in a Super-16 sensor, and it’s capable of recording full 1080p HD video in RAW format. The camera also features 13 stops of dynamic range. Users will be able to slap on their existing Olympus and Panasonic lenses, since the Pocket Cinema Camera utilizes an active micro four thirds mount.

The Production Camera 4K is a $4,000 video camcorder that shoots in 4K resolution (meaning four-times the resolution of full 1080p HD). This camera sports a Super-35 sensor with native 4K video support, as well as a built-in SSD recorder. The camera also supports compressed CinemaDNG RAW and compatibility with traditional EF lenses for those who want to play around with different glass.

Both cameras begin shipping in July, although a solid release date is not yet known. Engadget ended up getting a hands-on with the Pocket Cinema Camera, as well as a brief session with the Production Camera 4K. Filmmaker John Brawley also got quite the in-depth look into the Pocket Cinema Camera, and while we don’t get to see any photo samples from the new camera, it seems image quality is superb on these new shooters.

Lead image via John Brawley

That camera first turned up last September and an issue with its camera sensor led to a delay in its launch. It looks like Blackmagic is set to launch a smaller and significantly cheaper version of that camera for consumers. This camera is called the Pocket Cinema Camera and the little shooter has turned up on a large banner display at NAB ahead of its official launch.

According to the banner, the Pocket Cinema Camera will use micro four thirds lenses. The camera will feature a Super-16 Cinema 1080HD sensor and feature 13 stops of dynamic range. The camera will also support lossless CinemaDNG RAW recording.

Another feature of the camera that users will appreciate is the micro HDMI monitoring capability. The banner calls out a retail price of $995. It’s not a bad price for a micro four thirds camera and with the movie recording features, independent film makers should be all over this once it launches.

[via Engadget]

This particular feature is able to sense sudden changes in light level and remotely trigger the camera immediately. This mode has adjustable sensitivity between one and 99 to fine-tune the camera activation depending on the environment. The remote also supports a Sound Mode that will trigger your camera to snap a picture as soon as a sound such as a popping balloon, breaking glass, or other noise is made.

The Sound Mode has a sensitivity that is adjustable between one and 999. It also supports a delay parameter of zero up to 999 ms. Another setting is Time Lapse Mode to automatically have your camera take photographs at a specific interval. One of the coolest features of the Nero Trigger is Laser Mode. Using this mode the photographer can shine a laser at the trigger even from a long distance and when the beam of the laser is broken the flash and camera will be activated to take a picture.

The Nero Trigger also supports HDR mode giving three parameters that can be fine tuned on the remote to optimize the photograph. The final mode is a new DIY mode and the trigger has a special DIY port on the side. That port allows the photographer to use external signal sources to trigger the camera. The Nero Trigger is available now for $199.

[via Nero Trigger]

The Samsung Galaxy Camera has been working like a boss for SlashGear over the past few weeks and months, appearing in such features as “Our Secret Star of CES” and our full Samsung Galaxy Camera review. This device is essentially a high-powered photography machine able to allow photographers of any skill level the ability to take excellent photos right out of the box. Using a custom Android user interface, Samsung has made it easy to get onboard with the future of smart photography.

The oddest part about this release is the price – while the difference in prices between off- and on-contract devices has been evolving over the past few years, it’s always strange when one is so extremely close to the other as this one is. If you pick this Galaxy Camera up from AT&T attached to a 2-year data contract, you’ll be paying $499.99 USD. You’ll be paying that same price if you buy it off-contract.

It’ll be up to you whether you want to pay an extra $50 for the ability to slot your microSIM card into the device if you’re on AT&T or Verizon this week – we’re thinking it might be worth the few extra bucks. Your other option is to connect to your smartphone in your pocket with your wireless hot-spot using the wi-fi capabilities of the camera – either way, you’ll be tossing down a few bucks this summer!

UPDATE: It would appear that the Samsung Galaxy Camera is now $549.99 on Verizon and still $499.99 on AT&T (but you’ll get an accessory bundle, too!) It’s still up to you!

Have a peek at our fabulous Samsung Galaxy Camera timeline below and let us know if you’ll be picking one up soon!

You’ll find nothing less than one of the best experiences you’ve ever had with a handheld video camera using this beastly 20x wide-angle (35mm equivalent: 26.8mm – 536mm) f/1.8 HD Video Lens. This lens uses same Hi-UD (Hi Index Ultra Low Dispersion) technology you’ll be finding in Canon’s XF professional camcorder line as well as a new 8-blade circular aperture using the same tech found in Canon’s EF series lenses. You’ve also got a dedicated manual focus ring as well as a custom key – make it work!

You’ve got a whole new HD CMOS PRO Image Sensor here that works in combination with your new DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor and SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization for what Canon notes will be “high sensitivity and wide dynamic range while providing images with low noise, more depth, and enhancing vibration control.”

With this camera’s new Dual Recording feature you’ll be able to grab both 1080/60p MP4 (35Mbps) and AVCHD Progressive (28 Mbps). You’ll also find cinematic recording at Native 24p, a set of two SD memory card slots (amazing!) and Relay Recording. With Relay Recording your recording will instantly start on one SD card after the first has been filled – greatness!

• 0.24-inch high-resolution (1.56-million-dot) angle-adjustable color viewfinder (CVF) with a large-sized eyecup
• 45-degree angle CVF tilt
• built-in Remote Control Terminal (with LANC protocol support)
• manual color temperature adjustment (2,000K-15,000K in 100K increments)
• color bars with test tone
• manual shutter speed and aperture control
• all new zoom lever

And Wi-fi connectivity allows you to work with Canon’s new set of remote controls – you’ll be able to control your recordings from a web browser while using your PC, smartphone, or tablet. You’ll also be able to use Canon’s Movie Uploader app for iOS – easy and free!

The Canon VIXIA HF G30 camcorder will be available in June starting at an estimated retail price of $1,699.99 USD. We’ll be checking it out soon – stay tuned for SlashGear for all the most excellent Canon action, back to front!

The Nik Collection by Google is comprised of the following plugins: Viveza 2, Dfine 2.0, HDR Efex Pro 2, Color Efect Pro 4 Complete Edition, Sharpener Pro 3.0, and Silver Efex Pro 2. The plugins can be used with Apple Aperture, Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Photoshop Elements, among others.

The folks over at DPReview spoke to Google’s Product Manager Josh Haftel, who is quoted as having said, “We definitely plan to continue developing and evolving the software. This is our first release and by bringing this under the Google brand, we hope to show our commitment not only to Nik users, but to the photography community at large.” He also stated that the Nik Collection’s only difference over the previous versions is the Google brand and one-to-control-them-all installer.

The deal gets a little sweeter for those who have already previously invested in one or more of the Nik plugins, with Google offering free downloads to previous customers. Those who bought one or more of the plugins within the last half decade can get the Nik Collection for free, while those who bought one or more plugins after February 22, 2013, having spent more than $149, will get a refund for the difference.

[via DPReview]

The XP200 has waterproofing down to 15 meters below the surface of the sea, is resistant to cold temperatures – down to negative 10 degrees celsius, and will take on drops of up to 2 meters if you like. This beast is shockproof, dustproof, and is ready to roll out with the rest of your beastly rugged gadgets with the newest in fashionable beast-mode aesthetics. That means it looks nice, too.

The lens is one you’ll also find to work with 5x zoom, that is 28-140mm range, and there’s a lovely dedicated Burst Mode ready for your snappage as well. The back of this device also contains a 3-inch LCD display on the back so you’ll be able to see what you’re doing, and you’ll be able to take some slo-mo video as well. Video can be captured with this camera at Full HD 1080p at 60fps – and you can capture at 360fps as well if you want to go… so… super… slow.

This fabulous little monster will be available for 229 pounds in England starting at the end of April, and we’ll likely see it in the USA as well – soon and very soon! Have a peek at the timeline below of Fujifilm bits and pieces to put the whole puzzle together. And start shooting now!

[via T3]

The app is now at version 1.0 and has some features that mobile photographers will really appreciate. Some the top features for the application include a Move Me tool that makes it easy to extract and move objects in your pictures. The app offers a Magic Crop tool that also has a unique un-cropping function.

The developer promises that Handy Photo 1.0 has the best retouching technology available for mobile platform. The app also brings over 20 photo filters allowing users to apply artistic touches to their images right on the device. Those filters include black and white, Bleach Bypass, fog, glow, tilt shift and more.

The application also offers sets of high quality textures and frames with 100% size image viewing. The app supports images of up to 36 megapixels and is optimized for multiple core processors and GPU processors. Other interesting tools in the application include the ability to level uneven horizons and photos, and to drag the photo in any direction wanted to expand it from a cropped version. The app sells for $1.99 on both platforms and is available now.

[via Adva-soft]

First up is its durability, with the camera boasting a handful of features that makes it an outdoorsy camera worthy of trips to harsh environments. The FinePix XP200 is waterproof to depths of 15-meters, with Fujifilm boasting that it offers “crystal clear quality” when submerged. Likewise, the camera is shockproof against drops from heights up to 2-meters, and is dustproof. If you’re one to tread into cold territory, you’ll be happy to know the camera is also freezeproof, able to withstand temps down to -10C.

Those features aside, the XP200 also offers wireless image transfer to both computers and mobile devices via either the Fujifilm PC AutoSave program or the Fujifilm Camera Application, depending on which device you want to transfer the images. Both images and videos can be transfered, although there is a 30 image per transfer limitation when moving pictures from the camera to a tablet or smartphone. Both Android and iOS is supported.

Because the camera is aimed at those engaging in rugged – and likely fast-paced – activites, the XP200 also offers a 10 frames-per-second continuous shooting mode. If that’s not enough, there’s also an ultra-high-speed mode that can snap 60 frames-per-second for a maximum of 60 frames. Continuous mode is activated by a dedicated button on the back of the camera, meaning you won’t have to toggle around the menu before getting that here-now-and-then-gone shot.

The camera will be available in yellow, red, black, and blue in May for $300.

The Olympus VH-520 offers a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor, and utilizes the TruePic V processor, which was first developed for use in digital SLR cameras. Zoom is fairly high at 10x optical zoom with a digital boost to 20x, and image stabilization is achieved in the form of lens-shift. ISO range goes up to 6400, and there’s HDR Backlight Adjustment. The display is a cool 3-inches.

There are also a some decent video recording specs to talk about, including the ability to record in full high definition, as well as High Speed Movie mode, which provides slow motion playback. For sharp videos, there’s also a Multi-motion Move IS mode, and audio is recorded in stereo to provide a soundtrack that is the same quality as its full HD video counterpart.

Finally, images and video can be edited with Magic Filters, which are presets available for photographers to apply effects to recorded and saved content a la Instagram and other similar popular photography apps. The Olympus VH-520 compact digital camera will be available in red, purple, blue, black, and brown in April for €149.99.

[via Olympus]

First up is the long-zoom, which is one of the camera’s biggest claims to fame. The S8400W features optical image stabilization to help ensure that images come out sharp even when the zoom is being utilized to its maximum. This is on top of an autofocus speed of 0.3-seconds and a half-second interval between images.

The S8400W features a BSI-CMOS 16-megapixel sensor and offers a high ISO of up to 12,800. The camera has a rapid start-up speed of a single second, helping ensure that, in combination with the fast autofocus and optical image stablization, you get the image you want just as it happens. Taking advantage of this hardware, this FinePix camera also have an outstanding burst mode, which allows photographers to take shots at 60 frames-per-second at a resolution of 1280 x 960 and 120fps at half that resolution.

The S8400W’s video recording capabilites are also excellent, with the camera offering filming options that appeal to many different types of photographers, including those heavily involved in video projects. This camera offers 1080i video capture at a maximum frame rate of 60fps, as well as the ability to record in slow-motion at a very high 480 frames-per-second.

No word yet on pricing.

[via Fujifilm]

The company behind the product, called Trygger as well, has announced that the Trygger for the iPhone 4/5 is now available for purchase. The Trygger is available in black or white colors for $49.99 for the iPhone 4 or $39.99 for the iPhone 5. The device slips on the corner of your iPhone 5 putting a special filter over the iPhone 5 camera lens.

The product is designed to improve photographs taken using the smartphone. The Trygger polarizing filter is produced using hand ground optical quality glass and the filter is adjustable. The manufacturer promises that the device will remove unwanted reflections from glass, water, and metal.

The filter is adjustable allowing the user to determine how much light comes through giving more control over photographs. The product is also available for the iPhone 4 in the form of the case that snaps around the smartphone placing the same lens filter element over the iPhone 5 camera lens.

[via BiteMyApple]

The T5i uses an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. The camera also uses the Canon DIGIC 5 Image Processor and boasts an ISO range of 100-12,800. That ISO range can be expanded to 25,600 in H mode. Canon promises that the new digital camera will deliver crisp and detailed images in lowlight conditions and can shoot continuously up to five frames per second.

The digital camera also boasts a cross-type autofocus with nine points of focus. The camera supports Live View mode and has a three-inch touchscreen LCD on the back. Canon has also unveiled a new lens to go along with the camera called the EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM that comes in the standard kit lens bundle. The camera uses the Stepping Motor technology allowing the lens to smoothly and silently focus on the subject automatically.

The rear LCD is a variable angle unit offering intuitive touch controls making the camera easy to use for new photographers. As with any DSLR, the T5i has a wide range of full manual controls and creativity features. The camera features seven integrated Creative Filters and special handheld Night Scene, HDR Backlight Control, and Multi-Shot Noise Production modes. The camera can shoot full HD resolution video using a special movie mode. The camera body will be available in April starting at $749.99. Bundled with the previously mentioned kit lens the camera will sell for $899.99. A second bundle priced at $1099 will feature an EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens.

[via Canon]

You can see a visual representation of the SL1′s small size in the first image in the gallery below, which contrasts it with the T4i (represented by the blue outline). The SL1 measures in at 4.6-inches wide by 3.57-inches high by 2.74-inches thick, weighing 14.36 ounces. While the small size is one of its most alluring features, it also has a lot to offer in its hardware specs.

The Rebel SL1 has an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor with an ISO range from 100 to 12,800 for photos, as well as ISO to 6,400 for videos. There’s a DIGIC 5 Image Processor, giving the SL1 the power to snap 4-frames-per-second. The autofocus is a nine-point system utilizing a Hybrid CMOS AF II sensor, as well as Movie Servo AF for video recording. Around back there’s a 3-inch touchscreen Clear View LCD that supports multi-touch gestures.

Canon’s Executive Vice President and General Manager of Imaging Technologies and Communications Yuichi Ishizuki had this to say: “The EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera represents a new era in DSLR versatility: ultra-portable, full-featured DSLR cameras. The EOS Rebel SL1 combines the high speed, high image quality and expanded shooting range of a DSLR camera, with the easy and fun usability of a point-and-shoot camera.”

The EOS Rebel SL1 is slated for release next month at $649.99 for the body and $799.99 for a EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM kit lens.

[via Canon]

Inside, users will find a DIGIC 6 Image Processor, as well as a 12.1-megapixel sensor. This combination helps to ensure that images are both high-quality and able to be shot in rapid succession. The ISO goes up to 6400, and low-light images are lower noise than you might get in some other compact devices due to the high-sensitivity sensor.

The SX280 HS offers full high definition video recording in up to 60fps, offering Dynamic Image Stabilization to prevent blurs. Content taken with this camera can be geotagged thanks to the integrated GPS receiver, which tags photos as you take them. Likewise, there’s integrated on Wi-Fi connectivity to make sharing images simple. When paired with the CameraWindow app, photographers can transfer photos from the camera to an Android or iOS device.

Yuichi Ishizuka, Canon’s Executive Vice President and General Manager of its Imaging Technologies and Communication Group, said: “Canon recognizes the importance of capturing the highest quality images possible and sharing them instantly and easily. The PowerShot SX280 HS Digital Camera with its impressive features provides users the resources to shoot in almost any situation and the creative tools to help capture their vision.”

The PowerShot SX280 is set for release next month for $329.99.

[via Canon]

As the Google team notes, the highest altitude they reached through this particular trip was 18,192 feet. This trip’s highest altitude is higher than anywhere in the contiguous USA, and in the journal fragments posted this week, Google’s own People Programs Manager Sara Pelosi lets us know that there’s really nothing like it! The closest most will get is, again, in the Google Maps Street View entry this crew has made special for this momentous journey.

See Google’s [World's Highest Peaks] collection righ tthis minute and see some of the finest locations you might never visit!

“Day 4: The morning was a pretty easy walk, mostly traversing the mountain ridges. After we stopped for tea there was a long climb, “up up up” according to our guide, all on switchbacks. We stopped in Tengboche for lunch, then photographed the monastery with the fisheye lens. Amazing place. The monks watched us closely as we walked around. I don’t know if they were more interested in the Americans or the photography. We continued on to Pangboche where we stayed for the night. When we got to Pangboche we saw a patch of blue sky and a rainbow. I’m still optimistic that we’ll see at least a glimpse of the peak of Everest. Our guide says, “can be”, which we’ve learned is the answer to every question. We’re not even quite to 13,000 ft here. A long way left to go up.” – Trip Notes from Google

There are several ways in which Google is able to take the photos you see in Street View through Google Maps on your desktop or mobile device. One of the ways you can capture a similar “globe-like” photo is with Google’s own Photo Sphere for Android Jelly Bean version 4.2 and higher. If you’re using a Windows Phone or iOS device, you’ll want to have a peek at Photosynth.

Have a peek at the timeline below for additional insights and news blasts from the Google Maps Street View universe – and go exploring today from the comfort of your own home!

The Samsung Galaxy S4 has been tipped to be coming with a 4.9-inch display with AMOLED technology flavored with a bit of futuristic tech that’ll make it about 30% brighter than past iterations. Call that Green PHOLED if you dare. The display is set to be rolling out with a massive 1080 x 1920 pixel resolution too, this making the device a beastly 440PPI – so sharp it’ll cut your eyeballs apart.

The Samsung Exynos 5 Octa quad-core processor has been tipped several times for the Galaxy S4. With that and the smooth excellence of Android 4.2 Jelly Bean as well as Samsung’s own TouchWiz in its newest iteration, this device will be a beast when it comes to futuristic mobile computing. Then there’s the camera.

Today’s tip from PatentBolt suggests that the Samsung Galaxy S4 will be working with some form of 3D camera action. With the “2D to 3D” sort of logo appearing in trademark form today connected with the following text, the Galaxy S4 coming with 3D processing technology has become a real possibility. We’re not going to see a double-camera situation like we did with past 3D-capable smartphones, instead we’ll be seeing post-shot processing (if we see any such 3D abilities at all, that is).

“Application software for smart phones; application software for tablet computers; digital cameras; USB flash drives; mobile telephones; portable media players; portable computers; rechargeable batteries; smart phones; tablet computers; wireless headsets; lenses for cameras.”

BONUS: You’ll notice the 3D logo is an ever-so-slight modification of Samsung’s previous 3D logo used on their Smart TV line – as seen in our recent Samsung UN55ES8000 55-inch Smart TV Review, too!

If you’ll have a peek at the logo and compare the ever-so-slight 3D-looking “4″ in the invite for the event for the device coming up this week, you’ll find yourself wondering. Could the Galaxy S4 be bringing on 3D technology without a double-dose of camera lens action? We’ll see on the 14th – SlashGear will be in NYC to bring you the full story!

The company says that its updated 30 mm F1.4 DC HSM lens will be available in late March for $499 for cameras using Sigma, Canon, and Nikon mounts. The company’s 30 mm F2.8 DN and 19 mm F2.ADN lenses will both be available for Micro Four Thirds and Sony E-Mount camera systems in late March for $199.

Sigma says that the 19 mm F2.8 DN lens is a wide-angle offering equivalent to 38 mm on the Micro Four Thirds system and 28.5 mm on the E-mount system. The minimum focusing distance for the lens is 7.9-inches. The 30 mm F2.8 DN lens has an angle of view equivalent to 60 mm for Micro Four Thirds cameras and 45 mm on e-mount cameras. It features a minimum focusing distance of 11.8-inches.

The 30 mm F1.4 DC HSM lens uses a new optical configuration of eight elements in nine groups with rounded aperture blades. The angle of view is equivalent to 45 mm on a 35mm camera and the focusing distance is 11.8-inches. The lens is designed to minimize field curvature and prevent loss of image quality at the edges of photographs. It uses a double-aspheric lens to minimize distortion.

[via Sigma]

Specifically, the URL “picasaweb.google.com” no longer takes users to Picasa Web Albums but instead redirects users to Google+ Photos. It turns out that in order to actually navigate to Picasa, you have to enter in “picasaweb.google.com/lh/myphotos?noredirect=1″ where the noredirect command will keep the URL from going to Google+.

Again, this isn’t surprising and we should all be getting ready for the eventual demise of Picasa Web Albums. Google has already replaced Picasa with Google+ Photos in the navigation bar, but then again, Picasa hasn’t seen a huge user base recently anyway, with most users taking advantage of Yahoo’s Flickr platform if anything.

This probably isn’t the only transition we’ll see from Google as far as Picasa and Google+ Photos are concerned. We’re betting that the company will slowly kill its Picasa Web Albums, while introducing more features for Google+ Photos in the future, as well as making the service more prominent for those wanting to upload and share photos.

[via CNET]

This device works with an all-glass 18.5mm (28mm equivalent) prime lens with no less than a f/2.8 aperture to back it up. You’ll be working with quick AF performance at 4 frames per second bursts, a collection of fabulous scene modes, and wi-fi connectivity if you do so wish to have it. To grab that connectivity you’ll beed to pick up the also relatively new WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter – a tiny little bug you’ll love plugging in to the side of your brand new COOLPIX.

You’ll be working with a manual focus ring, full manual exposure controls, and the ability to shoot in real-deal completely RAW/NEF if you’d like. Your manual exposure controls allow you to shoot in P, S, A, or M, your desire being its reality – and there’s a collection of accessories coming on as well. You’ll be working with a DF-CP1 Optical Viewfinder, a UR-E24 Adapter Ring for all the filters and lens hoods you want, and a hearty HN-CP18 metal Lens Hood.

There’s a full-size hot shoe port as well if you’re all about the Nikon Speedlight collection – go wild! This device will be revealed in both Black and Silver when it’s ready – inside March 2013 for the market at a suggested retail price of $1099.95 USD. We’ll be seeing this device released at all your favorite fine camera shops and, if you’re lucky, we’ll be reviewing it here on SlashGear too, soon!

Before we go any further, you should know that this is just the second in what we’re expecting will be an extended series of Photo Tour posts here on SlashGear. The first was back a few months ago with the HTC Evo 4G LTE, a device whose photo setup was being pushed by its makers at the time. Of important note is the fact that both that device and this one both use Qualcomm Snapdragon processors – from different generations, yes, but both coming with architecture that Qualcomm is proud to speak about as having fabulous photo processing abilities. This time they team with LG, and here we go again on a different corner of the earth – Spain.

The first image you see above was shot with the camera right out of the box, automatic settings from start to finish, the shot taken in the morning of a Barcelona city street. Note that this photo was also the subject of another hands-on post earlier this week, the LG Pocket Photo – a miniature photo printer that requires no ink to use – like magic! Below you’ll see one of our first examples of an HDR photo. The shutter speed on this device, even with HDR, is rather quick – but because of the nature of HDR photos, you’ll still see multiple instances of the same people walking in this MWC 2013 crowd.

Below this you’ll find a gallery of photos taken in the same location as what you see above. With the quick shooting mode on this device, you’re able to collect a massive amount of photos in undeniably quick succession – 20 shots before it has to stop and think about what it’s done. The best way for you to visualize this here in still photos is to click (or tap) one of the photos below and move rapidly through the gallery with your arrow buttons. This will only work on a desktop computer with our gallery system unless you’ve got a wildfire-fast tablet or smartphone – if you do, go for it! The goal here it to see the images as a sort of stop-motion animation. When you do, you’ll see that this beast is a snappy shooter.

Another example of an HDR photo can be seen next – the big LG logo. Here you’ll get an idea of how this device shoots something lit up in a rather mixed-lighting environment. Again you’ll notice the multiple instances of the same faces because of the multi-exposure that happens when you shoot an HDR shot.

A macro photo can be seen next, even though the LG Optimus G Pro isn’t promoted for its macro abilities, you’ll find that this photo does the trick. The subject matter is the G Pro Quick Cover – an official LG-made cover for this device you can read all about over on Android Community. Up close and personal without a special setting looks rather nice and clear with the 13 megapixel camera we’re right here and now using with the LG Optimus G Pro.

Another HDR photo is next, in this case showing an especially dark locale. You’ll find that in this Beer shop in the midst of this week’s convention venue, the blacks have become in many cases a lighter shade of gray. With this you’ll see that there’s not much that you cannot see – that can be especially valuable if you’re doing photography for documentation rather than for the sake of high art. If you want 100% true-to-life colors, you wont want to use HDR with the Optimus G Pro.

Then there’s a two-up photo set here, the first of a Coke can taken without HDR, the next being that same Coke can, this time with HDR switched to “on”. You’ll be able to tell one from the other only with extremely sharp eyes – and by noticing that I’ve accidentally placed my finger into the edge of the HDR photo. The HDR photo looks almost identical to the non-HDR photo (besides the finger and the television picture behind the can, for obvious reasons). The HDR version is ever-so-slightly more intense, especially in the darks across the range – the red in the can, for example, is a bit more deep.

The gallery you’re having a peek at below shows two different examples of what the LG Optimus G Pro captures with its own unique version of a Photo Sphere. If you’ll remember back a few weeks when a new version of Android Jelly Bean was introduced, Google revealed Photo Sphere – a built-in camera mode that creates a panorama photo, but capturing a massive photo that covers all directions, something like what you see when you head to Street View in Google Maps. You’ll also remember that while it works great some times, it – at other times – doesn’t work so perfectly. The same is true of LG’s iteration of this feature, even with a slightly different user interface.

Another gallery rests below, this time showing a set of examples of a regular old panorama. This standard panorama mode has produced marginally better results for us thus far than the sphere-like mode above. It is important here – as it always is with panorama shooting at this time in history – to drag the camera across your scene at an even rate – and not too slow, not too fast either. One of the photos was taken at the Google Head Space party during MWC – as you can see, this club area was rather dark, and didn’t work too well with the panorama mode in the end. The others were taken on a bridge inside the main MWC 2013 event, lighting being a bit more generous.

Next you’ll see another example of a photo taken indoors of a rather large, open area at Mobile World Congress. The first shot was taken without HDR, the second was taken in HDR mode. This example set shows just a bit more clear the difference between the two – generally this is the case when you’ve got the possibility of a much more large range of colors and levels of light and dark.

The nighttime photo you see below is taken from across the street from the Mobile World Congress 2012 venue. This is a place where many MWC-goers stop on the train to transfer trains as it’s a large hub from one place to another – notably the new venue, mind you. The important point here is the levels of light in the darkness – and the idea that this photo was captured by hand. Normally a photo captured here at this time by hand – with most smartphone cameras, that is – would have lots of light streaks due to the shutter being open for enough time to capture the correct amount of light. In this case, LG’s setup allows you to do this much quicker – and the result is obvious.

Finally you’ll find a lovely gallery full of photos taken at one of the more challenging locations a person can take a photo at with results that look more than terrible. It is – once again – the Mobile World Congress 2013 Google party: Google Head Space. There are two rooms here, the first a smaller one made for chilling out and having a drink amongst a DJ mixing tunes under a massive Google Play Music set of orange headphones. The second is a massive room with a stage that held both Tinie Tempah and Florence and the Machine.

Enjoy this if you would, and have a peek at the rest of our Mobile World Congress 2013 content in our lovely MWC 2013 tag portal. You can also have a peek at our LG tag portal for more awesome Optimus action, there finding the review of the LG Optimus G Pro soon, and very soon.

Unlike the Photosynth app for iOS, the Windows Phone 8 version comes with a few exclusive features, including the ability to launch the app from the default camera app. There are also new sharing capabilities that allow Windows Phone 8 users to share and view panoramas with one another, as well as posting to Facebook and Twitter.

There’s also more camera controls. Users can adjust for various lighting conditions by using the new exposure and white balance locking options within the app, which should make panoramic images turn out a lot better. Microsoft boasts that Photosynth is the “only Windows Phone app that can stitch a full sphere (that’s 360 degrees horizontally and vertically).”

The app is really easy to use. All you have to do is tap the screen to start, and then move your phone around in all directions to capture your surroundings with the camera. Whenever you move the camera to a different location, the app will automatically recognize that and will take a photo of that section. You can take full 360-degree images or just a quick panoramic from left to right.