Design Art and Photography » 2008 » January http://sirint.com Just another WordPress weblog Sat, 06 Nov 2010 20:43:22 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en Canon PowerShot A590 IS The Canon PowerShot A590 IS is an 8 megapixel point and shoot camera with a 4x optical zoom lens and image stabilization.

It also comes featuring aperture and shutter priority modes as well as full manual exposure mode.

It will have a retail price of $179.99 when it is released in March. Canon PowerShot A590 IS News Release Extract

Ruggedly crafted yet lightweight, the dark silver body of the 8.0 megapixel PowerShot A590 IS camera fits firmly and comfortably into a user's hand. Featuring an impressive 4x (35mm-140mm equivalent) zoom lens, the PowerShot A590 IS model offers a richer feature set than other entry-level PowerShot cameras.

Staking out the upper-middle tier of the PowerShot A-series, the new camera offers users the option of 19 shooting modes, from fully automatic to fully manual operation for greater creative control. The A590 IS camera also features Canon’s advanced Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). OIS significantly reduces the effects of camera shake (and the blurry pictures they cause) by actually allowing the lens to shift to compensate for camera movement or shake. Unlike electronic image stabilization systems that essentially mask the movement rather than actually compensating for it, Canon’s Optical “lens shift” system preserves the inherent quality of the stabilized image without covering up parts of the image. This OIS technology is even effective when the movement being stabilized is caused by extended telephoto or low-light shooting conditions.The camera's range can be expanded even further with the use of any one of three optional converter lenses: a 1.75X tele-converter, a 0.7X wide converter and a 52mm close-up lens for eye-catching and frame-filling macro photography. The converter lenses attach over the camera's zoom lens by means of an optional conversion lens adapter.



]]> http://sirint.com/design/canon-powershot-a590-is.htm Nature designs spring up at Vicenza’s ‘First’ By Mary Wisniewski

Vicenza, Italy—The Vicenza Fair's gold-jewelry exhibition, "First," held from Jan. 13-20, proclaimed "Nothing as before" as one of its mottos, but when it came to the actual jewelry designs on display, several trends took a cue from the past.

Bangles, cameos and chain necklaces, popular accessories for several seasons now, abounded in many designers' booths, as did serpent-themed jewelry, brown diamonds and the mixing of yellow, rose and white gold.

But nothing dominated the show as much as flower designs, with rose-motif rings taking center stage.

Also in line with the flower theme were nature-inspired pieces, including those with leaf, butterfly and ladybug designs.

A model in Ambrosi jewelry, reflecting the year's top trend: flowers. Stars and other celestial themes proliferated throughout the show too, as did color degradation in the designs themselves, which was revealed at Superoro's booth.

Superoro designer Raffaella Zanetello said they chose to incorporate this fading-color element into their latest collection because it's what's going on in fashion these days.

As for color, white enamel held its own as did white agate, white coral and white mother-of-pearl, making the jewelry designs fresh and fitting for spring.

]]> http://sirint.com/design/nature-designs-spring-up-at-vicenza-s-first.htm The chill factor By Mary Wisniewski

Large, lengthy coats; colored, textured tights; and boots, scarves and hats of different varieties may all stylishly prevent frostbite, but the layered looks of winter can also make it difficult for jewelry to stand out.

To battle this jewelry-wardrobing conundrum, the new winter edict is that bigger really does mean better, especially when the emphasis is placed upon areas that peer out of the sea of clothing bulk, like wrists and hands.

Download The chill factor to see the hot new rings and things that will command heated attention all winter long.

]]> http://sirint.com/design/the-chill-factor.htm Canon Powershot A700 review
Canon A700 - 6x optical zoom
The compact Canon A700 is one of the new Canon digital cameras that is equipped with a high sensitivity setting of 800 ISO. In addition, the camera features a 6x optical zoom; a true work of art from the design department. Despite the large optical range, 35 - 210mm (equivalent of a 35mm camera), Canon still cling to the optical viewfinder. The LCD monitor has a large size of 2.5 inch, which is becoming increasingly standard on compact digital cameras.

Canon PowerShot A700 digital camera
Canon's PowerShot A digital cameras are known for their first-rate features, which are borrowed from the advanced digital Canon cameras, such as the PowerShot G-series and S-series. As a result, one could say the Canon A700 combines the best of both worlds: refined advanced features and entry-level user-friendliness. The future owner of a Canon PowerShot A700 may expect an extensive functionality, packaged in a small and lightweight housing.

Canon PowerShot A700 - DIGIC II processor
The Canon A700 has an effective resolution of 6 Megapixels, which will, for a large share of consumers, suffice to produce photo-realistic prints. Besides the large optical range, at least for such a compact digital camera, the Canon A700 defines itself with the integration of the powerful DIGIC II processor; which enables the Canon PowerShot A700 to quickly process the images and start up rapidly. Once again, we experience the distinguished, advanced ideas that Canon carry through from professional to amateur cameras, which forms an attractive advantage to the consumer.

Canon PowerShot A700 - Widescreen mode
The extensive available options are represented by a wide array of shooting modes, which enable the user to engage in creative photography in the easiest and most effortless way. Besides its simple operation, the Canon PowerShot A700 also features manual settings, such as aperture and shutter speed priority. A new addition is the so-called Widescreen mode for digital photos, with a 16:9 widescreen ratio resolution setting. Naturally, these images are played back full-screen on widescreen TVs and monitors. Those who wish to capture moving images can record a video clip with sound in TV quality (VGA) with 30fps.

Canon PowerShot A700 review
As mentioned above, the Canon PowerShot A700 is the kingpin of the PowerShot A-series digital cameras. This exceptionally popular line offers the user an attractive creativity combined with a user-friendly low entry-level. We've had the opportunity to test the camera in practice for a considerable amount of time. Our results can be read in the following Canon PowerShot A700 digital camera review.





]]> http://sirint.com/design/canon-powershot-a700-review.htm Olympus Europe extends free E-3 grip offer

Olympus Europe has again prolonged its offer of a free HLD-4 grip to existing E-System users purchasing a new E-3. Originally scheduled to end on Dec 31st 2007, the promotion was first extended to Jan 31st and the folks at Olympus now say customers have until the end of March to get their claims in - most generous. Full details on how to 'get a grip' coming up after the jump.

Please note the link below still mentions the cut-off date as being Jan 31st but should soon be updated with the new date. All other information is correct.



]]> http://sirint.com/design/olympus-europe-extends-free-e-3-grip-offer.htm Russell Simmons’ D.E.F. sees more ‘green’ New York—Simmons Jewelry Co. President Scott Rauch has presented on behalf of the company a donation totaling $311,535 to the Diamond Empowerment Fund (D.E.F.).

The D.E.F., founded by Simmons Jewelry Co. co-owner Russell Simmons upon his return from Africa last year, is a nonprofit, international organization dedicated to empowering Africa through funding education programs in African countries where diamonds are a natural resource.

Simmons Jewelry Co. launched the Green Initiative jewelry collection last year with a signature piece called the "Green Bracelet," made from genuine green malachite beads and a conflict-free rough diamond sourced from Africa.

More than $20 from the sale of each Green Bracelet, which retails in the United States for $125, is donated to the D.E.F.

The bracelet has become a popular accessory choice, worn by celebrities such as Beyoncé Knowles, David Beckham, John Mayer, Ludacris, Penelope Cruz, Serena Williams and former U.S. President Bill Clinton.

For more information on the D.E.F., visit its Web site, Diamondempowerment.org.

Editor's note: For related news, see Simmons Jewelry Co.'s 'Green Bracelet' to benefit DEF.

]]> http://sirint.com/design/russell-simmons-d-e-f-sees-more-green.htm Simmons pours on the brown sugar New York—One of TV's top matriarchs is teaming up with the Home Shopping Network (HSN) to launch a line of brown-diamond jewelry.

Justine Simmons, wife of Joseph Simmons (Reverend Run) on the MTV reality series Run's House and sister-in-law of jewelry company owner and music mogul Russell Simmons, will debut Brown Sugar by Justine Simmons on Jan. 23 on HSN.

Produced and manufactured by family jewelry company SHR and Simmons Jewelry Group, Brown Sugar will be available exclusively on HSN and at HSN.com.

Each piece in Simmons' collection features brown diamonds, her favorite stone, paired with white diamonds and set in white gold.

Inspiration for the collection came from Simmons' appreciation of 1930s- and 1940s-style pieces worn by legends of the silver screen, such as Grace Kelly and Katherine Hepburn, as well as the unique brooches and rings worn by Simmons' mother-in-law, Evelyn Simmons.

"I've always been passionate about designing jewelry," Simmons said. "Brown Sugar is made for every woman and to be worn on every occasion, whether she's a stay-at-home mom or a career woman on the go. Each piece of the collection is striking and classy and perfectly suited for today's woman."

While other shoppers have to wait, fans of Run's House already know what to expect: the Jan. 3 episode of the reality show provided a sneak peek of the collection, when Simmons and SHR and Simmons Jewelry Group executives met with HSN officials in St. Petersburg, Fla.

]]> http://sirint.com/design/simmons-pours-on-the-brown-sugar.htm US Government: Photographers need educating on battery risks

Possible 'ignition' of rechargeable batteries has prompted the United States government to issue a direct warning to photographers of the potential risks when carried on aircraft.

The move is designed to draw the public's attention to new US Department of Transportation rules which ban air passengers from carrying 'spare' lithium-ion batteries in their checked-in luggage.

The rules, which took effect on 1 January, only allow travellers to pack a lithium-ion battery in their checked-in luggage provided that it is already installed in the device.

'With more powerful batteries being produced it is paramount to educate the public on the risks of possible overheating to the point of ignition,' said Gordon Delcambre Jr, public affairs specialist for the US Pipeline and Harzardous Materials Safety Administration.

The alert follows Kodak's warning that a booming market for counterfeit rechargeable digital camera batteries risks injuring millions of consumers.

In a letter to the newsdesk Delcambre added: 'The counterfeit batteries that make their way into the market raise the risk of short-circuiting and power overload.'

The US government advice also 'recommends' that electrical devices using lithium-ion batteries should be carried in passengers' hand luggage.

For details of the new rules, along with safety tips for travellers, visit http://safetravel.dot.gov


]]> http://sirint.com/design/us-government-photographers-need-educating-on-battery-risks.htm 2008 industry forecast This year will test your mettle, especially if you're a jeweler targeting the lower- to middle-market consumers who have been pummeled by the credit crunch, mortgage rates, gas prices and other economic concerns.

But our 2008 forecast reveals tough times can also usher in a sweet year of innovations in design, business alliances, and of course, retail.

For a preview of the year ahead in fashion, diamonds, watches and retail, download our 2008 industry forecast.

For National Jeweler Network exclusives on what's in store in 2008 for online retailers and the majors, see Online retail shows no signs of slowing in '08 and Mass-market consumers may not trade up in 2008.

]]> http://sirint.com/design/2008-industry-forecast.htm Canon HF100 Canon HF100 : Canon expands its award-winning High Definition (HD) camcorder range with the announcement of a groundbreaking flash memory-based model. The compact Canon HD Camcorder HF100 will thrill creative moviemakers who want maximum mobility and the chance to shoot High Definition footage in challenging new environments. The Canon HF100 offers the convenience of shooting straight to memory card. Flash Memory allows the Canon HF100 to offer a range of benefits compared to camcorders based on other media: like Hard Disk Drives (HDD), the camcorder provides extended recording times; but it is more compact than DVD camcorders; and it provides superb image quality, comparable with the standard set by High Definition Video (HDV).

Canon HF100 camcorder - Resolution
Featuring the acclaimed Canon HD Camera System, the Canon HF100 High Definition model is also the first HD camcorder from Canon to record at 1920x1080 Full HD video resolution. More power-efficient and robust than other recording media, flash memory also results in significantly smaller, lighter HD camcorder designs - the Canon HF100 weighs in at approximately 380g. The new Canon HF100 digital video camcorder records directly to standard SD or SDHC memory cards.

Canon HF100 SD camcorder - Full HD recording
“The Canon HF100 and HF1000 extend Canon’s High Definition range with the very latest in recording technology,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “Combining the quality of the Canon HD Camera System with flash memory and 1920x1080 Full HD recording - not to mention the unique advantages of Dual Flash Memory with the HF100 - these products re-define what can be achieved with a Canon HD camcorder.”

Canon HF100 High Definition camcorder - SD and SHDC memory
The Canon HF100 records Full HD movies directly to standard SD or SDHC memory cards. Versatile and compact, these removable cards are ideal for sharing movies with friends and family. Video is easily transferred to a computer for editing or uploading to the web via a single USB cable, or by inserting cards into a compatible reader. Recording capacity is only limited by the size of the card.

Canon HF100 features
• stores video and stills direct to SD/SDHC memory card
• Stylish, lightweight design with the power of 1920x1080 Full HD recording
• Canon HD Camera System for outstanding quality
• 12x optical zoom Canon HD Video Lens with Super Range Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS)
• New 3.3MP Full HD CMOS sensor
• DIGIC DV II image processor
• Instant AF for super-fast, accurate auto focusing
• New Intelligent battery system, with extended battery life
• Advanced photo features, including 3.1MP still image capture
• Multi-angle Vivid LCD screen
• Bundled software: Canon Solution Disk and Pixela ImageMixer 3 SE
• Versatile recording system: new mini Advanced Accessory Shoe, microphone input with manual audio controls; HDMI and component outputs; compatible with Canon’s new Canon DVD burner DW-100

Canon HF100 HD video camera - Design and Finish
Flash camcorders offer several key advantages. They require less power and offer faster start up times than camcorders that use traditional recording media. Flash memory is also physically smaller than other media, allowing for a significantly lighter and smaller camcorder design. Finished in high quality silver, the new model is compact enough to be carried in a jacket pocket. Since flash memory involves no moving parts, footage is less vulnerable to the knocks and bumps a camcorder is often subjected to.

Canon HF100 digital video - HD1080i recording
The new HF100 is the first HD camcorder from Canon to record HD1080i video at the maximum resolution permitted by the AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec for High Definition) standard: 1920x1080 Full HD. Perfectly matched with the latest Full HD TVs, this picture size delivers the very best possible image quality. Boosting image quality even further, the Canon HF100 camcorder has an increased maximum average data rate of 17Mbps during recording. In total, users can choose between four recording quality modes.

Canon HD Camera System
The Canon HF100 benefits from cutting edge technological advances and refinements made to the Canon HD Camera System.6 Both camcorders benefit from the improved resolution and image quality of Canon’s new 3.3MP Full HD CMOS sensor, the extended range of the new 12x optical zoom Canon HD Video Lens, and the DIGIC DV II processor. Since Canon manufactures all of these key components in-house, each is designed to integrate seamlessly with the other – providing the best possible performance and image quality. The 12x optical zoom lens incorporates Canon’s Super Range Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS), an advanced system that combines two methods of shake detection to better eliminate vibrations caused by a variety of factors - from slow breathing patterns to the rapid vibrations of a car journey.

Canon HF100 - HD resolution and Advanced accessory shoe
Instant AF is an extremely fast, highly accurate auto focus system that has been specially designed to meet the requirements of HD resolution imaging. Inherited from Canon’s professional XH series HD camcorders, Instant AF makes it easy to achieve absolute HD clarity. Enabling full shooting freedom, the HF100 offers a number of advanced features for ambitious moviemakers. A dedicated microphone input connection allows an external microphone to be attached: allowing filmmakers to capture sound more accurately, distracting background noise is reduced. Optional peripherals can be attached to the camcorder via a mini Advanced Accessory Shoe. For playback, HDMI and component output ports allow the camcorder to be connected directly to an HD TV. A USB connection enables easy transfer of footage to a computer. Data transfer and live capture via HDMÍ is also possible with compatible computers. Both camcorders come supplied with software for management of video and stills.

Canon High Definition camcorder - DVD burner support
To make sharing footage with friends and family even easier, The Canon HF100 is compatible with Canon’s new standalone Canon DVD Burner DW-100. The burner connects directly to the camcorder, allowing videos to be copied to a standard DVD without the need for a computer. The DW-100 can be used to burn discs in either AVCHD format, for HD footage, or standard DVD-R format when used with a Standard Definition camcorder. The DVD burner can also be used to play back AVCHD DVD’s when connected to a TV via a compatible camcorder.

Canon HF100 High Def camcorder - Battery and Power
A new Intelligent lithium-ion battery provides a clear indication of power levels during shooting. Accurate to the minute, the system makes it easier to avoid those awkward moments when power unexpectedly runs out. Offering extended battery life as standard, the HF100 is also compatible with Canon’s high capacity battery pack (BP-819) - the perfect accessory for extended shooting days.


Canon DIGIC DV II and advanced digital photography
Canon’s unique DIGIC DV II processor is designed to handle the increased data rate of HD images. It employs advanced noise reduction technology to deliver sharp, crisp HD video. DIGIC DV II optimizes recorded colours, ensuring that they appear as vibrant and bright as they do in real life. DIGIC DV II is also the driving force behind both camcorders’ advanced still photography features. Alongside a built-in flash, PictBridge connection and histogram display for monitoring brightness levels, it allows users to capture still photographs while shooting video: since digital photos have unique colour requirements, DIGIC DV II provides separate processing paths for video and stills - optimizing colours for each.

Canon HF100 digital HD camcorder - LCD and HCAR surface
The new Canon HF100 both features Canon’s 2.7" Multi-angle Vivid LCD. With the broadest colour gamut of any Canon camcorder LCD, the screen has HCAR surface treatment to minimize glare. Its exceptionally wide 135-degree viewing angle makes it easier for friends to gather around the screen and review footage.


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