Press Release: Fuji Officially Announces X-T1 with Interchangeable Lens and Weather-Resistant

The Fujifilm X-T1 makes its official debut. Inside the X-T1′s retro body you’ll find the newest generation Fuji's 16MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, an EXR Processor II, built-in WiFi, a 1.04 million dot high-precision 3-inch tempered glass tilting LCD and a built-in wide-angle 2.36M dot OLED EVF with the world’s highest magnification for a digital camera (0.77x) and a short lag time of 0.005 seconds.

The X-T1 ships next month for $1,299 for the body only, and $1,699 for the camera and the XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 lens. You can pre-order yours today at the following authorized retailers:

Fuji X-T1 Body Only: B&H Photo | Adorama
Fuji X-T1 with XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 Lens: B&H Photo | Adorama

The weather-resistant lenses will arrive sometime this year, but no specific pricing and availability info has been released yet. Until they arrive, you can use the X-T1 with any of the current X-Series lenses.

Continue reading for full press release and you can also find more information by visiting Fuji.com.


X-T1 features a huge, real-time OLED viewfinder, extreme AF speed, and premium craftsmanship for photographic freedom anywhere

Valhalla, N.Y., January 27, 2014 – As a leader in advanced digital camera technology and outstanding image resolution, FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the new FUJIFILM X-T1, a weather-resistant premium interchangeable lens camera with a large OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) that delivers a near-instant image preview, the latest generation 16.3 Megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor and the segment’s fastest autofocus of 0.08 seconds*1 for a truly remarkable photographic experience anywhere.

The FUJIFILM X-T1 now gives professional and enthusiast photographers the award-winning imaging power of the X-Series in a water, dust and temperature resistant body that braves outdoor challenges like never before.

OLED viewfinder perfection
The FUJIFILM X-T1 combines a unique wide-angle 2.36m dot resolution OLED view with the world’s highest magnification (0.77x) for a digital camera*2 and shortest display lag-time of just 0.005sec*3 to react as quickly as you need in any environment.

The OLED viewfinder also includes cutting-edge technology to bring users even closer to their subjects. The X-T1’s viewfinder uses a newly designed Graphic User Interface that provides an exciting shooting experience with clear details and a comfortable at-a-glance view of your settings.

The X-T1 has four OLED EVF Display Modes:

• "FULL" mode takes full advantage of the high magnification ratio of the X-T1's viewfinder to give an unrivalled view of the scene
• "NORMAL" provides an optimum view, including shooting settings
• "DUAL" is specially designed for manual focusing with a clever split view. The regular view and manual focus area can be simultaneously checked (with Digital Split ImageTM or Focus Peak Highlight)*4
• “PORTRAIT” view in “NORMAL" and “FULL” modes automatically rotates the displayed information when the camera is held vertically

Award-winning 16.3 Megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor and EXR Processor II
The FUJIFILM X-T1 uses the award-wining EXR Processor II and X-Trans™ CMOS II sensor with built in phase detection that delivers an astonishing response time of just 0.08 seconds and a super-fast 0.5 second start-up time*5, along with a 0.05 second shutter time lag and a 0.5 second shooting interval*6.

The X-T1 can also shoot up to 8 frames per second*7 with tracking AF and is the first-ever CSC*8 to be compatible with SDXC UHS-II format memory cards for data writing speed (in Continuous Mode) that is approximately twice that of a conventional SD card.

Tough, weather-resistant design
The FUJIFILM X-T1 is the first weather-resistant X-Series CSC (when used with a weather-resistant lens) that performs in a wide range of challenging environments. The X-T1 uses more than 75 points of weather sealing, and the camera body is dust-resistant and water-resistant. The X-T1 is also freezeproof to -14°F for full-fledged field photography work, while the premium clear 3” LCD screen with 1.04 million dot resolution is made of tempered glass for additional outdoor protection.

Traditional handling, modern response
With five mechanical dials on the top-plate, two command dials; one on the front and one on the rear, and six fully customizable function buttons, the FUJIFILM X-T1 feels and functions like a proper photographic tool in the hand. The top-plate includes two machined-aluminum double-deck dials for the shutter speed and metering, and the ISO sensitivity and drive modes, and each is designed to turn with a reassuring click, while their textured surfaces gives a firm confirmation when setting up a shot.

With their exposure values clearly marked, the X-T1’s settings can be checked at a glance without using the rear LCD and the dials are perfectly arranged so that functions can be changed without removing your eye from the viewfinder. The six customizable function buttons and two command-dials arranged on the front and rear complete the picture, ensuring instant setting satisfaction.

WiFi and remote camera operation
The X-T1 one-touch WiFi connectivity lets you easily share images to your smartphone or tablet – pictures that these devices cannot capture - and remote shooting via smartphone or tablet using the Fujifilm Camera Remote app for unique capture opportunities.

Additional grip and weather resistant lenses
The optional vertical battery grip (VG-XT1) has the same hardy structure as the X-T1, so when added to the body, it is completely secured against the elements.

Fujifilm is launching three weather-resistant zoom lenses to complement the X-T1 camera in 2014, including the XF18-135mmF3.5-5.6 R OIS WR, XF16-55mmF2.8 R OIS WR and the XF50-140mmF2.8 R OIS WR.

FUJIFILM X-T1 key features list:

• 16.3 million Megapixels APS-C X-Trans CMOS II Sensor
• Dust and water-resistant body with more than 75 points of weather sealing. Freeze resistance to -14°F
• EXR Processor II

o World’s fastest AF of 0.08 seconds
o Startup time of 0.5 seconds
o Shutter time lag of 0.05 seconds
o Shooting interval of 0.5 seconds
o Phase detection AF and motion predictive AF for continuous shooting up to 8 frames per second

• High-precision 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder

o Highest viewfinder magnification for digital cameras of 0.77x
o Wide viewing angle (diagonal 38° and horizontal 31°)
o Ultra-fast Real Time Viewfinder with a lag-time of 0.005sec (less than 1/10 of existing models)

• Four different display modes: Full, Normal, Dual and Vertical.

o Full mode: Displays shooting information at the top and bottom of the screen to avoid obstruction of the view
o Dual mode: Adds a small second screen for checking focus point with Focus Peak Highlight or Digital Split Image
o Normal mode: Lets you concentrate on framing the shot in Auto Focus mode while keeping you aware of how the shooting conditions are changing, making it the perfect setting for sports and action photography
o Portrait mode: When in Full or Normal modes, it rotates the shooting information interface when the camera is turned vertically

• Tempered glass 1.04 million dot high-precision 3” tilting LCD monitor
• Digital Split Image and Focus Highlight Peaking
• World’s first compatibility with Ultra High Speed UHS-II SD memory cards
• Vertical battery grip VG-XT1 and three new zoom lenses offer the same weather resistance to secure the entire system
• Redesigned circuit board design enables high ISO 51200 setting*9
• ISO200 - 6400, extended ISO 100, 12800, 25600, Auto(maximum ISO setting from ISO 400 – ISO6400 available)
• Lens Modulation Optimizer technology maximizes each lens’ performance
• In-camera RAW converter
• Die-cast magnesium body provides a sturdy and durable, while compact and lightweight design
• Body and grip designed for correct balance when attaching telephoto and large-diameter lenses
• Two command dials and six Function buttons for instant control and customization
• Interval timer shooting for Time Lapse photography is available with intervals of 1 second to 24 hours and up to 999 frames

FUJIFILM X-T1 accessories:

• Dedicated all-leather case BLC-XT1 New
• Vertical battery grip VG-XT1 New
• Hand Grip MHG-XT New
• Four dedicated flash models to choose from depending on requirements (EF-X8 New, EF-X20, EF-20, EF-42)
• Protector filters (PRF-39, PRF-52, PRF-58, PRF-62 and PRF-72 (For XF10-24mmF4 R OIS) New)
• DC coupler CP-W126 NEW
• AC adapter AC-9V NEW
• M Mount Adapter for additional lens compatibility
• Remote release RR-90
• Stereo Microphone MIC-ST1
• The FUJIFILM X-T1 (body only) will be available for $1,299.95, and the X-T1 with the XF18mm-55mm (27-84mm) F2.8-4 lens (kit) will be available for $1699.95, both in February 2014.

The FUJIFILM X-T1 uses the same FUJIFILM X-Mount as the X-Pro1, X-E2, X-E1, X-M1 and X-A1, and all FUJIFILM XF and XC lenses work with all X-Series interchangeable lens cameras.

The current Fujifilm lens family includes the following FUJINON XF and XC lenses:

• XF 14mm F2.8 R
• XF 18mm F2.0 R
• XF 23mm F1.4 R
• XF 27mm F2.8
• XF 35mm F1.4 R
• XF 56mmF1.2 R
• XF 60mm F2.4 R Macro
• XF10-24mmF4 R OIS
• XF 18-55mm F2.8-4.0 R LM OIS
• XF 55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS
• XC 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OIS
• XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS

*1: Fastest AF speed among digital cameras equipped with an APS-C or larger sensor. Measurement conducted by Fujifilm research based on CIPA guidelines using the X-T1 equipped with XF14mmF2.8 R lens in High Performance mode as of January 2014
*2: Highest VF magnification ratio among digital cameras. Fujifilm research as of January 2014. Approx. 0.77x magnification with a 50mm lens (35mm format equivalent) set to infinity and -1.0DP
*3: Fujifilm research as of January 2014
*4: “X-Trans” and “Digital Sprit Image” are a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.
*5: Equipped with XF27mmF2.8 in High Performance mode
*6: MF mode *7: AF-C shooting mode
*8: RAW shooting mode
*9: Expended output sensitivity

Press Release: Nikon Lens Production Reaches 85 Million

Total Production of NIKKOR Lenses for Nikon Interchangeable Lens Cameras Reaches 85 Million

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce that total production of NIKKOR and 1 NIKKOR lenses for Nikon D-SLR and Nikon 1 advanced cameras with interchangeable lenses, respectively, has reached 85 million in January 2014. For more than 80 years, NIKKOR lenses have set the standard for sharpness, reliability and image quality for both casual shooters and professional photographers alike.Nikon has steadily expanded its lineup of NIKKOR lenses in the past year, incorporating advanced optical technologies cultivated over a storied eighty-year history.

In August 2013, Nikon announced the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens, a versatile 7.8x high-power zoom lens compatible with DX-format D-SLR cameras, while in November, Nikon introduced the AF-S NIKKOR 58mm f/1.4G, a fast FX-format offering capable of elite low-light performance, earning accolades for its ability to minimize sagittal coma flare*(1). In January 2014, Nikon announced two new NIKKOR lenses including a new compact and lightweight zoom lens, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II for DX-format shooters, featuring a retractable lens design for maximum convenience. Also introduced was another addition to Nikon’s acclaimed f/1.8 lens lineup, the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G, a versatile fixed focal-length prime ready to thrive in any shooting situation.

Nikon also released the world’s first*(2) waterproof and shockproof 1 NIKKOR lenses, the 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 (included in the Nikon 1 AW1 waterproof zoom lens kit) and the 1 NIKKOR AW 10mm f/2.8, alongside the Nikon 1 AW1 camera. With eleven total lenses included in the 1 NIKKOR lens lineup, Nikon remains committed to expanding and enriching the lens offerings for Nikon 1 shooters.

September 2013 marked the deployment of Nikon’s Optical Performance and Total Image Analyzer (OPTIA), a new measurement device that is able to measure all forms of aberration in interchangeable lenses for cameras, as well as a dedicated image simulator. Using OPTIA and the dedicated image simulator not only offers greater control over resolution, but also enables the development of lenses with more control over varying characteristics of each individual lens.

Review: Plasticase NANUK 925 Hard Case with Cubed Foam and Padded Dividers

Overview : NANUK cases are designed to protect the most sensitive equipment in the harshest environments. Whether battling the scorching heat of the Sahara desert or the bone chilling cold of the arctic, every detail of NANUK has been refined and perfected to offer the utmost in protection and performance. From our high-impact NK-7 resin to our PowerClaw latches, NANUK has been engineered and manufactured to stringent military specifications to surpass the needs of the most demanding users. These virtually indestructible, lightweight, watertight cases offer the ultimate grade of protection in a variety of sizes, configurations and colors. Complimented by a large selection of optional accessories and an incredible degree of customizability, NANUK is the best choice to move your equipment in complete security. Whether transporting valuable equipment around the world or simply protecting sensitive tools in the urban jungle, NANUK is up to the challenge.

NANUK comes loaded with innovative features. Countless hours of research and development went into defining the requirements for NANUK. The result is a line of cases that are equipped to meet today’s challenges. Responding to feedback from professionals in various fields, NANUK is the evolution of traditional protective cases. NANUK has also been designed to adapt as your needs change. Many features that are optional on other cases are standard on NANUK. By integrating attachment features into the case at the design stage, you can easily add a shoulder strap or a panel kit without modifying the case with holes or additional hardware. The attachment features are already there when you need them.

Features :

• High quality polyurethane foam, the multi-layered set of customizable inserts includes a pre-scored removable layer. This layer consists of foam squares that can be removed in various configurations to accommodate the contents of the case.
  
• Interior Dimensions NANUK 925 Case L 17 x W 11.8 x H 6.4
  
• Waterproof Seal- Automatic Pressure Release Valve-100% Stainless Steel Hardware-Stackable
  
• PowerClaw Latching System- Clamps the case tightly closed using compressive force while the integrated slide lock prevents the case from opening during transport or when dropped.
  
• Soft Grip Foldable Handle and integrated Hardware for an Accessory Strap and Padlock (Lock and Strap Available Separately). The handle structure is molded with NK-7 resin.

2014 Think Tank Photo Retrospective Laptop Case Promo

Our friends at Think Tank Photo just announced a limited special offer. Between now and February 6, 2014, when you purchase a Retrospective® Laptop Case or a Retrospective® Camera/Laptop Bag you will receive for free your choice of a PowerHouse Air or a PowerHouse Pro clear organizer.

These customizable clear cases fit power adapters, plus AC cable, pens, small cables, USB drives and other small items. Easily configure the dividers to suit your needs and stay organized. Secure each item in its own dedicated space for easy access. Keep chargers organized with divided space for the power adapter and the cable inside a clear zippered pocket. Zippered organizer pockets on the back of the case hold small adapters and cables.

Review: VARAVON Slidecam LITE 800 Roller Bearing Slider

Overview : The Varavon Slidecam Lite 800 is designed for shooting video with lightweight digital cameras and smartphones. As your camera smoothly rolls across the slider, you are capturing your subject at various angles. The smooth motion effect adds extra dimension to your video when shooting a static scene such as a landscape or a statue. The Slidecam Lite 800 sits on its own legs or can be mounted to a tripod. It has a 32 inch track with variable tension to control glide. It can support up to 19.8 lbs (optimal load is 6.6 lbs to 13 lbs). So it can handle anything from a compact DSLR such as a Nikon D5100 or a Canon Digital Rebel to a Nikon D800 or Canon 5D Mark III. Great for compact video camcorders and point & shoot cameras. You can mount an iPhone or a Smartphone to it too.

Features :

• Smooth glide action adds motion to static scenes.
• 32-inch slide track can handle up to 19.8 pounds (optimal load is 6.6 lbs to 13 lbs).
• Weighs 3.3 lbs.
• Special steel roller bearing.
• Variable tension allows all directional positioning.
• Fits any camera and can mount on any standard tripod.
• Use for iPhone and Smartphones too.

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