Saturday, February 27, 2016

Abstraction

Photos are everywhere, you just have to see them. This abstraction was photographed at the entrance of the Japanese Gardenat the Brooklyn Botanic; one of my favorite places to visit and enjoy.

Friday, February 26, 2016

Enjoy your weekend


Festa italiana

The , Festa italiana. was held yearly and for many years in the eighties and nineties on Carmine street. It was run by Our Lady of Pompeii church but it wasn't a religious feast. It was a neighborhood event. I got on the wonder wheel type ride to take this shot. The film was Ektachrome 200 and the camera was a Nikon Ftn with a 35mm F 2.8 Nikkor lens. BTW, lest you think there's a grammatical error in the heading, in Italian, in a tittle only the first word is capitalized and adjectives pertaining to nationalities and languages are also not capitalized.


Classic cityscape

This is an old archival image shot on East 28th Street in Manhattan. The camera was the Nikon FTn with the 35mm F 2.8 Nikkor lens. This is a scan from a Kodachrome II slide.



Thursday, February 25, 2016

New high end compacts from NIkon. DL series with 1" sensor and fixed zooms

 


THE NIKON DL PREMIUM COMPACT SERIES: PUTTING POCKETABLE POWER AND LEGENDARY NIKKOR LENS PRECISION INTO THE HANDS OF PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pairing a Large 1-Inch Sensor with Superior NIKKOR Lens Technology, Nikon's New Compact DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 Will Help Capture Stunning Images and 4K UHD Video

MELVILLE, NY (Monday, February 22, 2016 at 11:01 P.M. EST) - Today, Nikon Inc. announced the new DL Series of premium compact cameras. These pocketable yet powerful imaging tools offer an elite level of imaging prowess that fits easily in one's palm. Equipped with a variety of focal lengths optimized for different types of shooters, the DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 combine powerful NIKKOR optics with a large 20.8-megapixel (CX-format) 1-inch BSI CMOS sensor to produce stunning image quality and amazingly detailed images, even when shooting in low-light. Cameras in the new DL line will also feature powerful performance, with high-speed Autofocus (AF) and 20 frames-per-second (60 fps with fixed AF) continuous shooting capability for fast action moments, as well as 4K UHD video recording for users to tell their stories in new ways. Ergonomically designed and familiar for advanced users, all three cameras will utilize the new Nikon SnapBridge connectivity to make it easier than ever to shoot and share with ease.

"We recognize consumers' desire for smaller cameras capable of outstanding image quality," said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. "With the new DL line, Nikon is proud to fuse legendary NIKKOR optics with the latest innovations in imaging to provide advanced photographers amazingly compact tools capable of capturing photos and video that even the most discerned professional would be proud of."

The Nikon DL Series: Powerful Performance, Superior Optics
The new DL line of premium compact cameras packs innovative and powerful imaging technology into elegantly designed yet remarkably compact camera bodies, making it easier than ever to carry pure imaging prowess in the palm of one's hand. All of these new cameras are designed with a 20.8-megapixel CX-format (1-inch) BSI CMOS sensor, which when combined with fast, high quality NIKKOR glass, help to create stunning image quality for stills or 4K UHD video. Working alongside the new sensor is the new EXPEED 6A image processor that allows for impressive noise reduction and powerful, fast performance, making it possible to capture stunning low-light street photography, beautiful portraits or spectacular landscapes with ease.

For fleeting moments and fast-action, the DL line incorporates a high-speed hybrid autofocus (AF) system featuring 105 phase detect focus areas (with 171 focus points in contrast detect AF mode), as well as continuous shooting up to an incredible 20 fps, with capability to capture up to a blazing fast 60 fps with focus locked on the first frame. The DL series also features Dual Detect Optical VR technology to compensate for camera shake while handheld or at slower shutter speeds.

Continuing the impressive legacy of NIKKOR glass, each new DL camera features a unique lens design capable of amazing resolution and beautiful background blur (bokeh), with impressively fast apertures. The lens barrel also includes a manual focus ring, giving users enhanced control over focus on any subject.

Each NIKKOR lens is also equipped with a fluorine coating that helps repel dirt, water and oil, and also facilitates easy cleaning. For the first time in a Nikon compact camera, the DL18-50's NIKKOR lens will utilize Nano Crystal Coat to help reduce ghost and flare, particularly useful when shooting at a wide-angle. With the best NIKKOR technologies now integrated into compact camera models, users will be able to capture phenomenal images with amazing detail time and time again.

Control and Versatility
The DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 put creative control in the hands of each photographer and are all operated using the familiar Nikon DSLR menu design and an assortment of physical controls. The series also supports RAW (NEF) image capture, full PSAM manual controls and over 20 preset creative options, for use in both still and video shooting (including Picture Control, Creative mode, Multiple Exposure Lighten) to help challenge each user to expand their photographic horizons.

The DL line provides the tools to frame nearly every shot, with all three cameras sporting high-resolution 1,037k-dot OLED Touch displays. While the DL24-85 and DL18-50 allow for tilting, the DL24-500's display provides full Vari-angle capability, vitally important when shooting from unique perspectives. Even further customization and control is possible utilizing the hot shoe/accessory shoe available on DL24-85 and DL18-50 models that allows for complete system expandability with the DF-E1 optional electronic viewfinder. The DL24-500 also sports a hot shoe and a stereo microphone input jack, while all three models are compatible with Nikon i-TTL Speedlights.

Seamlessly Shoot and Share
Nikon SnapBridge makes it easier than ever to shoot and share amazing images with friends and family. Available throughout Nikon's newest line of premium compacts, SnapBridge utilizes Bluetooth®1 low energy technology (BLE) to provide an "always on" connection to a compatible2 smart device. Users can now seamlessly send images from their camera to a smart device (utilizing the new SnapBridge app) for easy sharing via social networks or to the cloud for instant storage. An unlimited number of thumbnails and 20 GB of storage will also be available for registered Nikon owners and SnapBridge users on Nikon Image Space, Nikon's free image storing service. Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi3 and NFC remain available to help facilitate easy connection and sharing.

Through Nikon SnapBridge, users can also operate their cameras remotely using the app, automatically synchronize time and location information to any image utilizing the camera's constant connection to a compatible smart device, as well as embed information on any image, including copyright or photographers' names. Lastly, firmware updates have never been easier, as Nikon will send registered users firmware information via the new SnapBridge application, directly to their smart device.

4K Video Capability
The DL series will be among Nikon's first compact offerings to support 4K UHD video capability [3840x2160] at 30p, affording users the ability to capture incredibly beautiful video with remarkable detail, all with a compact camera. Multimedia photographers will have free reign over their creative vision with the ability to utilize PSAM selectable exposure modes while recording, alongside popular movie features like HDMI output to an external recorder, slow motion to 1200 fps and the ability to grab stills from video. Other creative video functions available include: Full HD movie, HD movie, Motion Snapshot, Slow motion, 4-second movie, Time-lapse movie, Superlapse movie and Jump cut.

DL24-85: The Premium Compact Camera Ready for Anything
Great for travel, portraits and general photography, the DL24-85 offers pocket-sized imaging power with a fast and versatile 24-85mm focal range. Compatible with 40.5mm threaded filters, the newly designed NIKKOR lens (11 elements in 9 groups) features a 3.6x zoom range (7x with Dynamic Fine Zoom4) and a wide f/1.8-2.8 aperture, empowering users to capture a wide variety of subjects with incredible detail and natural bokeh, even in low-light. The 24-85mm offering also features Dual Detect Optical VR, AF bracketing and a tilting Touch OLED display to make composing from creative angles easier than ever.

Exclusive to this DL model is a new Super Macro Mode (1:1) that helps capture even small subjects in life-size detail. Setting manual zoom on the camera to super macro position allows the user close-up shooting at a 35mm equivalent magnification, providing amazing detail whether shooting flowers in bloom or a wandering ladybug. Macro photographers can utilize a variety of camera functions within the mode, including focus bracketing, manual priority AF (M/A) mode and peaking indication, to truly customize the look and feel of every image.

DL18-50: A Premium Pocket Camera That Can Capture It All
For landscape and architecture shooters looking for compact, ultra-wide angle DL option, the DL18-50 provides a solution that fits easily into any photographer's pocket. Starting at a wide 18mm and expanding to 50mm (2.8x zoom, 5.5x with Dynamic Fine Zoom) the camera sports a powerful NIKKOR lens with a wide f/1.8-2.8 aperture that makes it easier than ever to produce natural bokeh in any image, while capturing tack-sharp stills and video. This lens is compatible with 46mm filters and features Nikon's Nano Crystal Coat to help reduce ghosting and flare.

Those who choose the wide-angle DL premium compact can also take advantage of perspective controls to help compensate for image distortion, particularly for shooting tall objects from the ground like landmarks and skyscrapers. Tailored for architecture shooters, this feature helps to capture the correct perspective with ease.

For use with the DL24-85 and DL18-50, a newly designed optional DF-E1 electronic viewfinder (EVF) will be available for discerning photographers who desire for a traditional eye-level viewfinder to frame their photos. The compact DF-E1 features a 2,359k-dot resolution with eye sensor, alongside a tilting mechanism, diopter adjustment and anti-reflection coating, helping provide further clarity and versatility for DL shooters.

DL24-500: Get Close and Connect
The DL24-500 offers the longest zoom capability of any DL premium compact, reaching an incredible 500mm focal length and 21x optical zoom (42x with Dynamic Fine Zoom). Combining Nikon's new 1-inch sensor with this impressive super-zoom NIKKOR lens, the DL24-500 is an ideal choice for users eager to photograph and share anything from concerts to wildlife. Featuring an f/2.8-5.6 aperture, this lens (compatible with 55mm filters) integrates the newest NIKKOR technologies to help render amazing images and background blur, even from afar.

The DL24-500 also features Dual Detect Optical VR, particularly useful when shooting at extremely long focal lengths or without a tripod, a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2,359k-dot OLED display and an eye-sensor and a Vari-angle 1,037k-dot LCD screen.

Price and Availability
The new DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 will be available in early summer 2016 for suggested retail prices (SRP) of $649.95*, $849.95*, and $999.95*, respectively. Pricing and availability for the optional DF-E1 electronic viewfinder, compatible with both the DL24-85 and DL18-50, is TBD. For more information on these new Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™. Nikon Inc. is a world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology; globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for an award-winning array of equipment that enables users to tell their stories through amazing photos and videos. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; the Nikon DL series of premium compacts and COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics as well as the Nikon 1 compact interchangeable lens camera system. Nikon Corporation, the parent company of Nikon Inc., recently announced the production of 95 million NIKKOR lenses in 2015, creating a new milestone in Nikon's heritage of superior optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon and other photographers on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Vimeo and Flickr.

The wonder of medium format

I loved to shoot in medium format. This of course meant a twin lens reflex. I had several and it all began with my first Yashicamat 124 followed by the Yashicamat 124 G, a Minolta Autocord, several Mamyias and naturally my Rolleiflex. The ability to look at the ground glass and see the image just like it would appear on the negative or slide was priceless. You saw it in the same spacial relationship as the final image. Of course the image was reversed horizontally. This was not a big deal. I would love to have a similar camera in digital. The medium format digicams of today are   large single lens reflexes that are just heavy and bulky DSLR's. They have a mega pixel advantage but the "normal" DSLR's [ 24X36mm] are almost just as good. Of course they cost as much as a Mecedes-Benz. This is of course all moot since most people swear that their smart phones take great images and under most normal conditions, they do. The image below was taken with a Mamyia C-330. The film was Ektachrome 100 Professional.


Wednesday, February 24, 2016

New lens from Panasonic for Micro Four Thirds system

Lumix G Vario f3.5-5.6 Power OIS
  
Jumping the gun, so to speak. Just one day from the start of CP+ 2016, Panasonic has introduced the Lumix G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH Power O.I.S. as an addition to its line of Micro Four Thirds lenses. Besides the great range  [24-120  equivalent]  it features a splash proof  and dust proof design, and it's compatible with Panasonic's Dual IS feature that is currently available on the Lumix DMC-GX8. Its complex construction includes 11 elements in 9 groups, seven aperture blades and a high-speed stepping motor.
The Lumix G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH will be available in May for $499.99. This is really a great price in view of the very usable range and the weather proofing. Enjoy.

Venite adoremus

Yes indeed come and adore this gem of a town. You will not be sorry. It was recently voted as fourth in hospitality out of the top 50 Italian places for tourists to visit. You will feel at home and have a wonderful stay.




Tuesday, February 23, 2016

The Sicilian Cuisine Blog: Sicilian homemade bread fritters: for Carnival, but not only!

The Sicilian Cuisine Blog: Sicilian homemade bread fritters: for Carnival, but not only!

Saint Anthony's feast

Every June, on Sullivan Street in downtown Manhattan a feast is held in honor of Saint Anthony. There's a procession around the neighborhood as the highlight of the religious part of the feast. Naturally the non religious aspects are what most people are attracted to such as food, games, etc. Of course the saint is urged to pray for us but adding a few tens or twenties should convince him to be more prayerful. We Italians have  very interesting views on religious matters that have survived and been conserved since the times of the Romans who actually made deals with their Gods.



Monday, February 22, 2016

Finally, the Pentax K-1, full frame is here

In the days of yore when serious DSLR's were making their debuts, Pentax was one of the first to announce a full frame camera. Things went bad for the company and now Ricoh. the new owner, has finally made this a reality. It took a long time.                                                                                 

        Ricoh has  just announced it's  long awaited new Pentax K-1, a DSLR model with a 36  megapixel Full Frame sensor with professional build quality, that includes weather sealing for use in difficult shooting environments, a magnesium alloy body, and features that make this new camera unique among similar cameras from other manufacturers. The company is coming out with a number of lenses capable of covering the 24X36mm sensor. We wish Pentax success. It was once a really great camera company that introduced many to serious photography.


The way it looked back in the old days of September, 1967

Shot with a folding Kodak Retina 35mm camera with a Schneider lens. Some of my very first forays in serious photography.

Have a peaceful week

Ektachrome scan

Fall splendor