Canon Canada Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announces the new Canon XF105 and XF100 Professional Camcorders for mobile HD video capture in a compact form factor.

Canon’s smallest professional camcorders, the new XF105 and XF100 utilize the same Canon XF Codec featured in the Canon XF305 and XF300, introduced earlier this year.  The Canon XF Codec is an MPEG-2 4:2:2 50Mbps codec used for exceptional high-definition image quality, full non-linear editing (NLE) systems
compatibility and efficient, robust workflow.

These camcorders include in-camera features enabling the easy set-up and capture of high-definition 3-D video when two XF105 or XF100 camcorders are paired, as well as Canon’s built-in infrared low-light feature enabling the capture of HD video in complete darkness. Both models record to Compact Flash (CF) cards and feature hot-swappable card slots for maximum performance.

Differentiating the two models are industry-standard HD-SDI output and genlock in/SMPTE time code (in/out) terminals available on the Canon XF105. The XF105 and XF100 camcorders are ideal for Electronic News Gathering, documentary and independent filmmaking and event videography.

“Whether used as a companion to the XF305 or XF300, or as a stand-alone camcorder, the XF105 and XF100 are geared for a wide range of applications where high image quality, extreme portability and efficient workflow are of the utmost importance. And with true stereoscopic 3-D production and infrared recording capabilities, they allow users to expand into new markets,” stated Ian Macfarlane, Vice President of the Consumer Imaging Group at Canon Canada Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Canon U.S.A., Inc. “This week we will be exhibiting both the Canon XF105 and XF100 at Canon EXPO 2010 in New York and demonstrate the versatile low-cost capabilities.”

The Canon XF105 and XF100 Professional Camcorders feature a Genuine Canon 10x HD Zoom lens which provides the mobility and optical performance required by the most demanding professionals. Each model includes a Canon developed and designed native Full HD 1920 x 1080 CMOS image sensor and the new Canon XF Codec for extreme colour detail required for accurate chroma-keying, colour-grading and compositingfor digital filmmaking.

For finer transitions in tone and colour, 4:2:2 colour sampling offers twice the colour resolution of HDV and other 4:2:0 formats.  And to maximize compatibility with existing industry infrastructure,
video, audio and metadata are combined in an MXF (Material eXchange Format) File Wrapper, a widely supported open-source format.

The Canon XF Codec is currently compatible with leading software programs widely used within the video production and broadcast industries including those available from Adobe, Apple, Avid, and Grass Valley.

For more information, download the offical Canon press release below!

Canon XF-Series Professional Camcorder XF105 and XF100 PDF

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Nikon’s latest entry-level DSLR certainly packs a punch… have a look!

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Ottawa’s School of the Photographic Arts part-time studies 2010 fall calendar is now available.

For more information and details about the courses and workshops visit the SPAO website, pick up a calendar at community centers, galleries, and retail locations around the city, or give them a call at 613-562-3824.

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New EOS 60D Offers a Vari-Angle LCD Screen, EOS Full HD Video Recording, In-Camera RAW Processing and Creative Filters and 18-Megapixel Resolution Among Class-Leading Specs

High-quality digital capture and skillful post-processing go hand-in-hand for superior end results, and more control over in-camera image processing means less time editing and more time shooting. At the same time, the overwhelming popularity of Full HD video recording with other current EOS Digital SLRs has led to customer requests for more advanced features such as manual audio level control and flexible LCD screens. Canon Canada Inc., a leader in digital imaging, delivers all of these features and more with the new EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera. For the first time on an EOS camera, the EOS 60D DSLR boasts a three-inch Vari-Angle Clear View LCD screen, EOS Full HD video recording with manual overrides including audio level control, and in-camera functionality for RAW image processing plus Creative Filters to manipulate images after taking them. Designed primarily for advanced amateurs, the EOS 60D replaces the EOS 50D and boasts a broad array of new features that make it easier for photographers to add personal creativity to their images. Whether it’s capturing an overhead shot on the Vari-Angle screen at a graduation ceremony, or converting a colour image to black and white for a nostalgic look, Canon is delivering in-camera features and functions that empower advanced photographers to capture, display and print the images they want.

“The EOS 60D has been designed to offer the image-capture and the Full HD video features customers are looking for as they continue to expand their photographic skills. The exciting new features of the EOS 60D make using a DSLR camera more attractive and easier than ever before. We want everyone to experience the great image quality a Canon DSLR can offer with features and functions that they will appreciate and use,” stated Ian Macfarlane, Vice President of the Consumer Imaging Group at Canon Canada Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Canon U.S.A., Inc.

To find out more, click on Canon’s official Press Release here.

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After months of rumours, Nikon officially announced the release of it’s D3100:  an entry level digital-SLR camera with a new DX-format CMOS image sensor, EXPEED 2 (Nikon’s newest image-processing engine) and a helpful Guide mode that makes capturing beautiful images easy for even the beginner shutterbug.

With a 14 megapixel sensor, up to ISO 12800 sensitivity and a new 1080p/24 H.264 AVCHD movie mode with continuous contrast-detect autofocus, complete with face detection and subject tracking, the D3100 is quite a find with it’s price tag of only $569.95.

Have a gander at some of these features:

• DX-format, 14.2 effective megapixel CMOS image sensor
  - Softly defocused backgrounds that only a D-SLR can produce
• EXPEED 2 – Nikon’s new image processing engine
  - Faithful color reproduction and smooth, beautiful gradations
• ISO sensitivity 100-3200 (expandable to ISO 12800 equivalent)
  - Great performance and less blur in dimly lit settings
• Active D-Lighting – Beautiful balancing of light and shade
• Picture Control – Customizing images before the shot
• Guide Mode – The sure way to obtain desired results
• Scene Modes – Your short cut to expected results
• Scene Auto Selector – Letting D3100 decide the best mode to match the scene
• Help function – One-touch access to in-camera assistance
• Info display format – Choose the view that’s right for you
• D-Movie – Breathtaking full HD 1080p movies
• Live View – Live View with new AF modes and large 7.5-cm (3-in.) monitor
• AF Mode for Live View and Movie Shooting – New autofocus (AF) modes help capture moving subjects
• AF-area modes for live view and movies – Four modes to capture subject
• 11-point AF system – Quick, accurate autofocus ready for the decisive moment
• Advanced white balance control – More natural whites
• Built-in pop-up flash – Additional light whenever needed
• Scene Recognition System – Intelligent operation in any setting
• Ample image and movie editing functions – In-camera image and movie editing
• High-performance NIKKOR lenses – The right choice for amazing photos and full HD movies
• Nikon’s original VR system – Less camera-shake blur in images and viewfinder
• Compact and lightweight – Easy operation and take-anywhere portability
• Continuous 3 fps shooting – Catch the decisive moment
• Eye-Fi support – Transfer photos and movies wirelessly
• Easy-to-view finder – New superimposed indicators for a better view
• New shutter mechanism – Quiet shooting, even with Live View
• Rangefinder – Quick and easy focusing
• Nikon Integrated Dust Reduction System – Prevent dust from ruining photos
• Image playback with transitions  – View photos with striking special effects …more
• Convenient playback – Find images instantly by date
• Date imprint – Stamp photos with shooting date
• Long-lasting lithium-ion battery  – Plenty of stamina for plenty of photos
• ViewNX 2 software  – Your imaging toolbox (bundled) – Smart image management with a PC
• my Picturetown – Free image sharing and storage – Share photos and movies on the web

The D3100 body can be purchased alone or with the kit AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens.

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Plans for ProFusion 2011 are already underway and our sights are set on making this year’s event even bigger and better than 2010!

Of course, as with any expo, our success lies with what YOU want to see. And in that vein, we want you to tell us:

• Who would you like to see give a Keynote Address?
• What sorts of seminars interest you the most?
• Who would you like to see give these seminars?
• What exhibitors/products would you like to see?

Let us know your opinions & ideas. Leave your comments here or email ProFusion’s event co-coordinator and tell us what you’d like to see at ProFusion 2011. Let’s make this year even MORE successful than last year!

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As part of PhotoSensitive’s 20th Anniversary celebrations, a Panel Discussion is being held September 16 at the Hockey Hall of Fame’s Verizon Great Hall.

The event gets underway at 7pm and will discuss:

• social and documentary photography
• how photography can help to educate people, raise awareness and help bring about social change
• the process of working with charitable organizations towards their benefit (through fundraising and awareness-raising)
• how PhotoSensitive has included an education component in many of its projects, having contributions from students from many higher education colleges and universities as well as school students

Vistek is proud to be sponsoring this event & wishes PhotoSensitive another 20 years!

What: PhotoSensitive Panel Discussion
When: September 14 – 24, 2010
Where: 30 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON

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Okay… this is HUGE! The folks at Panasonic have announced that they’re developing a twin-optic 3D digital lens for its Lumix G-series Micro Four Thirds interchangeable-lens cameras – that will be available here, in Canada, by the end of this year.

The compact lens simply bolts onto your existing camera, letting you instantly shoot in 3D without any distortion or time lag between the left and right images, even when capturing moving objects. The lens features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses. These images form a 3D image when processed with a 3D image processing system.

Doug Borbath, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Canada Inc. said:  “While 3D movie and sports content is expanding, many customers want to enjoy their own 3D shooting. This new lens will respond to such demand, allowing users to shoot landscapes, people, and a variety of subjects in high-quality 3D, to be enjoyed later with their 3D Viera televisions at home.”

How images will be played has yet to be announced, but speculation is that it will be via an SD card in the Panasonic Viera 3D TV, or by connecting a compatible camera to the TV via HDMI.

Stay tuned… Panasonic will be announcing more details SOON.

source

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Photosensitive – the non-profit collective of photographers determined to explore how photography can contribute to social justice – is celebrating its 20th Anniversary with a retrospective exhibition at the Allen Lambert Galleria in downtown Toronto’s Brookfield Place.

Showcasing the best photos from 17 projects, this exhibit will highlight the best works from the group’s 20-year history.  Photographers who have been involved with the PhotoSensitive exhibitions over the years will be at the opening on the evening of September 14, as well as representatives from the many charitable organizations with which we have partnered.

Vistek is proud to be support, not only PhotoSensitive, but the charities with whom they’ve partnered over the years (The Daily Bread Food Bank, Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children, The United Way of Greater Toronto, Canadian National Institute for the Blind,  Community Living, Canadian Cancer Society, World Vision, The Rwanda Initiative, Campaign 2000, CARE Canada. Save the Children Canada, Foster Parents Plan Canada, Special Olympics, Ontario Trillium Foundation, Toronto District School Board & The Harmony Movement.)

Be sure to check it out!

What: PhotoSensitive 20th Anniversary Retrospective
When: September 14 – 24, 2010
Where: 181 Bay Street, Suite 220, Toronto, ON

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