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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

November 2009

New Tools Of The Trade

This Article Features Photo Zoom

Solid Support
Steady your shot using the latest generation of Induro carbon-fiber and aluminum tripods. The Induro Carbon Fiber 8X CT-Series and Aluminum Alloy 8M AT-Series feature higher load capacities, greater stability and a more rugged build for withstanding harsh environments. Ergonomic leg-lock grips and a textured rubber surface provide a better grip. The center column is larger for increased stability, and a threaded accessory-mount socket allows for attaching articulated arms, clamps and other mounting devices directly to the tripod. Induro is one of the few manufacturers to make its own carbon-fiber tubing, while the aluminum is made of a high-grade alloy. Estimated Street Price: TBA. Contact: Induro, (914) 347-3300, www.indurogear.com.

Nikkor Long Lens
Nikon recently upgraded one of its most popular zooms. The new AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm ƒ/2.8G ED VR II features an enhanced optical formula with seven extra-low-dispersion (ED) glass elements and Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat for better control of flare and ghosting. The Silent Wave Motor provides quick, quiet autofocusing, with manual focusing at the twist of a wrist. Second-generation VR II vibration reduction provides sharp handheld shots up to four shutter speeds slower than without VR. The lens features internal focusing down to 4.6 feet and a nine-blade diaphragm for good bokeh. Estimated Street Price: $2,399. Contact: Nikon USA, (800) NIKON-US, www.nikonusa.com.

Bundle Up
Alien Skin’s Photo Bundle contains a collection of award-winning photography plug-ins for Adobe Photoshop and Photoshop Elements. Programs include Blow Up 2, Bokeh, Exposure 2, Image Doctor 2 and Snap Art 2. The set represents $500 off individual prices. Blow Up enlarges photos while retaining clarity. Bokeh simulates focus effects of real lenses. Exposure simulates a wide range of film stocks, with more than 300 presets for films, special effects and darkroom techniques. Image Doctor provides a complete set of photo-restoration tools. Snap Art turns a photo into a work of art with a click. Estimated Street Price: $595. Contact: Alien Skin Software, (888) 921-SKIN, www.alienskin.com.

Book It
AsukaBook has expanded its formatting options with the Book Bound EXD line. This includes an EX book with a printed hard cover and a matching printed book jacket with customizable inside flaps. The book is presented in a custom-designed slide-in case. There’s also a new book size, 8x5.5 inches, so you can give your clients more options with guest books, baby books, senior books, parent albums and more. Three-week turnaround is guaranteed on all approved orders, and there’s a 10-day rush shipping option for $40. Contact: AsukaBook USA, (866) 330-1530, www.AsukaBook.com.

Stabilized Macro Lens
Canon brings an improved version of its optical image-stabilization technology into the macro realm with the EF 100mm ƒ/2.8L Macro IS USM lens. The Hybrid IS system uses an acceleration sensor in addition to the conventional angular velocity sensor (vibration gyro). Based on the amount of camera shake detected by the two sensors, a newly developed algorithm calculates the amount of blur on the image plane, after which, lens elements in the IS are positioned to compensate for the two types of shake. Estimated Street Price: $1,049. Contact: Canon, (800) OK-CANON, www.usa.canon.com.