PRAKTICA SCANNER
THE LONG-awaited Praktica colour scanning camera,
almost identical in functions and resolution to the Leaf Lumina but using
Praktica lenses and having its own Schneider-developed CCD system
including stop-down preview with LED exposure indication in the
viewfinder, is now available from George Elliott & Sons Ltd. It is
comptible with PCs from IBM AT MS DOS 3.2 upwards, and comes with Photo
Finish software. SCSI connection to Macintosh is also possible.
For
further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero
with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01892 724600,.
NEW COOLSCAN
HOT ON the heels of the superior quality Super
Coolscan comes a new low-cost improved version of the original Nikon 35mm
slide and neg scanner used by most press teams. The Coolscan II previews
in only 20 seconds and scans a full page 2,700dpi image in about 80
seconds � ten times faster than the first Coolscan. It has many other
features, including auto calibration and autofocus with improved shadow
detail, yet sells for only �1,099 + VAT. Software control over colour,
resampling, gamma and other aspects is comprehensive in both Windows and
Macintosh TWAIN compatible versions. An internal half-height drive bay
mounting version is also available to equipment makers.
For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0181 541 4440.
CHINON ES-3000
CHINON's first digital camera under their own brand
name, the ES-3000, offers 640 x 480 lossless resolution with programmed
control of shutter speeds and apertures, a 3X zoom lens wityh macro mode,
and PCMCIA memory card slot � all for only �749 + VAT. The Chinon is the
first digital camera to offer features like this at such a low price, and
has auto focusing, auto exposure, a built-in flash, auto or manual
zooming. The small size of CCDs compared to film allows it to have a lens
of �2.5-3.8. Connection to Mac or PC is by a serial cable, and the camera
acts as its own card reader, so no separate PCMCIA device is needed. The
lossless superfine mode only permits three images to be stored in the
built-in 1Mb memory without adding a card, but both smaller images and
heavily compressed large images can be taken allowing up to 40 pictures in
the built-in memory.
For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 01268 419101.
ID CARD PRINTER
A DEDICATED printer which put digital portraits on
to 'smart' ID cards has been launched by Bannerbridge plc at under �6,000.
The Persona II printer uses dye sub technology and UV proof lamination to
create tamper-proof ID cards with any combination of colour and monochrome
on both sides, magnetic stripe encoding, and the facility to add hologram
laminates in-line during printing. One card can be produced every 20
seconds to 2 minutes depending on the features required.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01268 419101.
COLLEGE GUIDE
AN IBM PC compatible guide to studying photography
in Britain, based on the acclaimed Photolink directory to education
produced by Dr Ian R smith, has been launched inb a regularly updated
edition. Called Photonet for Students, it costs only �14.95 on a floppy
disk. It will help anyone interested in studying photography find the
right course in the right area, at the right level, very rapidly.For
further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero
with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01722 781034.
COMET GOES DIGITAL
STILLS Photography, part of the former Saatchi
and Saatchi group now called Cordiant plc, has converted the press
advertising account for Comet stores to digital photography using Leaf
Digital Camera Backs and ISDN image transmission. The system is estimated
to save up to one hour per shot, working with familiar 5 x 4 Sinar
equipment. The next stage is for The Facilities Group, the part of
Cordiant which handles the pre-press artwork as well the photography, to
install a digital system directly in a Comet store which keeps all lines
in stock.
For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0171 255 5100.
EDITOR CAUGHT
CAUGHT in the Web is the title of Photon editor
David Kilpatrick's presentation to the fourth annual Digital Imaging
Conference at NESCOT, the hi-tech college based in Epsom, Surrey, on April
18th 1996. The conference has several speakers on many apsects of digital
imaging, and will be concluded and drawn together by John Henshall FBIPP
(it'll be worth attending for this alone � forget the Ed's
ramblings!).
For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
018 394 3179.
COLORTRON UPDATE
A NEW version of the Light Source Colortron
desktop spectrophotometer, which addresses many of the first version's
failings in terms of battery life, and introduces full compatibility with
ColorSync 2.0, has been launched. One year after buying Colortron in its
original version, Icon Publications Ltd has yet to encounter any other
user in any field, despite the extremely low cost of this device. We've no
idea whether the new software will work with the old hardware as no
upgrade information has been received by registered owners to date.
For
further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero
with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0181 200 8282.
PRICE BUSTER
JUST when we had forked out �270 for an extra
Microtek Scanmaker II � a venerable design selling for a ridiculously low
price � along come Microtek and announced the Scanmaker E3, a 300 x 600dpi
single pass scanner selling for only �299 + VAT and offering the same
speed as the IISP which has been retailing for around �600. We hope to
test this soon, as the earlier models have all been perfectly capable of
excellent photo reproduction, and at this kind of price for Mac or PC
connection any photographer with a computer can now afford to scan
prints.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0181 200
8282.
TWO RESOLUTIONS
HIGHLY accurate large format film recorders from
Cymbolic Sciences have previously been made in dedicated resolutions � a
lab buying a recorder putting 2,000 lines per inch on to 10 x 8 film could
not opt for quicker 1,000 line recording. Now the $154,000 minimum price
Lightjet recorder can be bought with dual resolution for an extra
$11,000.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel (+31) 20
6919 221.
COLOUR LASER CUT
QMS has cut the price of its networkable colour
laser printer, the Magicolor LX, by �500 to under �5,000 for a typical
12Mb A4 model. The LX prints black and white at 12 pages per minute, 600 x
600dpi, and colour at 3-6ppm at half resolution. It can take pper up to
160gsm weight for high quality presentations.For further information,
contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with international
dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01784 442255.
LEARN PHOTOSHOP
A BOOK with a unique tutorial structure based on
using a picture of an eye, and showing precisely the steps used to
manipulate it in Photoshop, has been published under the title of
Photoshop IQ. Costing �24.95, this neat small guide to key functions and
techniques is distributed by Paterson Photax.For further information,
contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with international
dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0121 522 2120.
MINOLTA SCANNER
MINOLTA's answer to the Nikon Coolscan, the
QuickScan 35, offers 2,800 dpi resolution and a fast SCSI-2 interface.
With 10 bits per channel, the QuickScan is claimed to offer superior
gradation, and a 1,000 x 1,000 pixel scan is said to be input in just 12
seconds. The initial version is for Macintosh with a PC based package
available shortly.For further information, contact (UK telephone number
- replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
01908 200400.
3D ANIMATION
RENDERED 3D photographic quality animation is offered
by a new chip developed by ART (Advanced Rendering Technology), a
Cambridge based company. During 1996, the first chips which incorporate
mathematical models of photographic light transmission, reflection and
shading, will be delivered to developers. The ART StingRay chip is one of
the first to use ray-tracing rather than polygon generation to create
motion sequences, and is expected to be one of the first used in
conjunction with virtual reality photography, a new professional field
involving precision coverage of location using specially equipped 35mm
cameras.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01223
421145.
BIG STUFF
ADHESIVE and Display Products has set up a new digital
display team to deal with enquiries about materials for large format and
giant electrostatic and inkjet photo prints.For further information,
contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with international
dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01604 495333.
WEB GUIDE
A GUIDE to what's new on World Wide web for creative
professionals has been created by The Frame, an Internet service for media
and creative industries. You can find it at http://www.theframe.com/For
further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero
with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0171 434 3314.
CU WEBSITE
COMPUTERS UNLIMITED, the distributor handling many
products of key interest to photographers getting involved in digital
conversion of their work, has a new Web site. The Internet URL is
http://www.unlimited.comFor further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 0181 200 8282.
FINER PHOTO-CD
FINER highlight and shadow detail in Photo-CD scans
is now available from Dunns Professional Imaging. They are the first in
the UK to install the upgrade to 12-bits per channel conversion of
densities on the Kodak Photo-CD scanning system. This gives the operator
the chance to control the tone, brightness and detail in each image
precisely and to cope with high range originals like Fuji Velvia and Kodak
Panther slides. Dunns have also installed a watermarking and encryption
program for Photo-CD scans � from �10 per order, CD disks can be written
which can not be unlocked at highe resolutions without an unlock code
unique to each image, while the lo-res versions can include a watermark
removable on the same basis. You can have your own personal watermark
created for �50.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0121 200 3226.
NO RIP OFF!
USERS of Canon CLC colour copiers and large inkjet
printers often complain that RIPs to process pages and images are
excessively expensive at �14-20,000 for something simpler than most �1,000
computers. Now IMC has been appointed a distributor for the very much more
reasonably-priced PhotoScript 3000 RIS based stand-alone RIP which costs
from �4,000 and uses standard 72-pin 70ns SIMMS to upgrade its 8Mb of RAM
to a maximum of 128Mb. Interfaces for various printers are available,
along with external SCSI storage, and the RIP has a multi-port interface
for networks.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
01753 830999.
JOE'S GROWS
JOE's Basement has expanded its range of digital
imaging services and lists the following for clients: high res drum
scanning, Barco retouching, Mac Illustraot, Photoshop, XPress and Live
Picture work; output to Fuji Pictrography, LaserMaster inkjet,
transparency, Iris inkjet, Canon 700; repro, and Photo-CD transfer.For
further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero
with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0171 434 9313.
PRICE SLICED
THE Microtek Scanmaker III, the only 36-bit flatbed
and transparency colour scanner available, has been cut in price to half
its former cost. The entire kit including a transparency hood, OmniPage
Direct OCR, software for batch scanning and Photoshop LE is now priced at
only �1,499 + VAT and undercuts every other high end flatbed scanner in
this category. For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0181 200 8282.
ON THE NAIL
THUMBNAIL contact sheets of developed films are going
to be a standard thing in future as the APS system gives this benefit to
amateurs. Now Bray Imaging Technologies Ltd are planning to give the same
facility to pro labs for 35mm films as well, with their Impak Digital
Index System. It automatically scans and digitises an entire roll of 36
exposure in a few seconds, automatically locating and correcting each
image, then sizes the thumbnails to fill the index print optimally, before
giving the operator an on-screen preview to allow final adjustments or
delete unwanted blank frames.For further information, contact (UK
telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44
code for UK): tel 01525 370360.
SECOND CHANCE
BUYERS of used Hasselblad cameras can now register
using a card provided by the dealer, and receive a welcome pack back from
Hasselblad (UK) Ltd, including details of products, a special insurance
scheme, and a membership application form for Hasselblad Forum. Dealers
can obtain supplies of cards from Hasselblad (UK) Ltd.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0181 903 3435.
EARLY RELEASE
A SCREW-IN shutter release to fit the threaded
socket which raises the mirror on Leica R6, R6.2 and R7 bodies does away
with the need for a double cable release for mirror-up operation. This new
minor accessory has just been added to the Leica catalogue.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01908 666663.
THREE WAYS
THE SUPER Roundshot 35 from Seitz goes beyond the
rotating 360� panorama mode of the original Roundshot to provide two
unique new functions � a linear image photographed on continuous film as
the camera self-propels itself down a set of rails, and a peripheral image
with the subject rotating on a turntable. The body is available in Leica R
or Nikon F fit, has a 10mm rise or fall range, auto and manual exposure,
and remote control of functions. The police and Ministry of Defence have
already expressed an interest in the camera, say distributors
Teamwork.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0171 373 6455.
MIGHTY MITE
THE Fuji DL Super Mini, a very slim 35mm compact with
a 28mm lens and special loading features making accidental loss of exposed
frames impossible, has won AP's Camera of the Year award formerly only
captured by SLRs. The DL has a brused aluminium outer casing, and sells
for just under �300.For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 0171 586 5900.
MINOX GT-X
THE LATEST 35mm Minox camera is the GT-X, adding DX
coding from ISO 25 to 3200 to the familiar specification of 35mm �2.8
Minoxar lens, manual focus down to 70cm, and aperture priority auto
exposure. In a kit complete with flash, it costs �440. Minox has also
introduced a new top model in its subminiature range, the TLX with a
titanium body, and has made some gold LX and AX editions to celebrate 50
years of manufacturing the (originally Latvian) camera in Germany; these
sell for �2,849 and �2,490 respectively. Leica, which distributes Minox in
Britain, is bidding in Germany to take over the company following an
alternative bid by Rollei/Samsung.For further information, contact (UK
telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44
code for UK): tel 01908 666663.
CHEAP THRILLS
STEREO 3D photography can now be experimented with
for just �9.95 � the price of an entry package from The Widecreen Centre.
It includes instructions for using any 35mm camera, a Chinese-made '
Realist' type stereo viewer for slides, 10 plastic dual mounts, and
lierature.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0171 935 2580.
THIEF BEATER
A SECURITY label with a serial number recorded in a
central database is the heart of a system offered to photographers by
Tagfast. The Decaltag is a non-removable label; you register your photo or
computer equipment with Tagfast Limited, and receive back the labels along
with window stickers and posters. It costs �15 to register up to 20 items
for commercial use, �23 for up to 50.For further information, contact
(UK telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus
44 code for UK): tel 01276 683400.
APO ZOOM
A LEICA R apochromatic zoom with high speed and covering
the classi Leica focal length of 180mm with a fast �2.8 maximum aperture
has just been announced. The Vario-Apo-Elmarit-R 70-180mm is designed and
made at Solms in Germany, and uses only 10 groups (13 elements) to achieve
a performance which Leica state is direcrly comparable to the 100mm
Apo-Macro-Elmarit-R at the same focal length. The 70-180mm focuses down to
1.7m, displays no colour shift, works with the Apo-Extender-R 2x without
performance loss. It has a non-rotating front mount, twin ring operation,
and a telescopic lens hood. It uses 77mm filters. It costs �4,262
inclusive of VAT.For further information, contact (UK telephone number
- replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
01908 671316.
TARDIS BAGS
BIGGER inside than out � the LowePro Commercial AW and
Magnum AW camera bags, which come fitted for 35mm systems, can now be
converted for rollfilm SLR outfits using the Medium Format Conversion Kit
which costs �39.99 and �34.99 for these models respectively.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0121 522 2120,
PELICAN GULP
ITS BEAK can hold more than its belly can! The
Pelican hard case is well known for protecting equipment with it gasket
seal rim and knockabout exterior, ideal for air transit or industrial
photography. Now Pelican has made a soft shoulder bag to hold a typical
pro 35mm outfit, which fits inside the hard case. The gear can be
protected in transit or in your vehicle, but lifted out in one go for work
on location, avoiding the need to work from the fairly bulky hard Pelican
case. A traditional alternative is the new Peli Protector case, a version
of the hard shell fitted with photographic accessory holders in the lid
and a customisable foam main insert.For further information, contact
(UK telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus
44 code for UK): tel 0161 366 6780, E-mail address if available -
.
HOYA CLOTHS
YOU CAN never have enough alternative makes of lens
cloth � we use them all the time at Photon, a try to buy new colours so we
know which ones are fresh. Hoya now has a microfibre type (the kind we
always use) measuring 170mm square and costing �3.99. If you have not used
cloths made from this new kind of fabric yet, try one. They are far safer
and more effective than cotton cloth or tissues.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01628 74411, E-mail
address if available - .
PADDED OUT
SOFT NAPPA leather foam padded lens cases for Leica R
and M lenses are now available. The zipped cases have inserts to fit
different sizes of lens and each has a white circle on its base, for the
owner to write the lens details on.For further information, contact (UK
telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44
code for UK): tel 01908 666663,
WIDE VIEW
FORGET the European 16:9 initiative for widesreen
television � you can really impress the public using true widescreen with
a 2.62:1 ratio, by fitting the Kowa PA-35 anamorphic lens to your 35mm SLR
for photography, and de-squeezing the image using the same lens in front
of your projector. It costs �395 from The Widescreen Centre excluding
mounts for cameras and projectors which are a small amount extra.
Anamorphic widescreen lenses can also be used for digital photography with
electronic expansion of the image.For further information, contact (UK
telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44
code for UK): tel 0171 935 2580,
PORTAFLASH
A NEW studio flash head with control down to 1/4 power,
modelling, and an integral slave cell has been added to the low cost
Portaflash range by Jessop. The 340VM is quoted as having a GN of 40 (ISO
100, metres) � no Ws power is stated. Unlike the cheaper units (�43.99 to �
69.99) with or without modelling lights, the 340VM has a tilting base for
attachment to lighting stands, and resembles a conventional monobloc. It
has the unique option of a remote conrol unit which can change the flash
power and trigger test flashes remotely. At a price of only �139.99, the
Portaflash 340VM looks like being a serious contender against low-end
models in established ranges. It is expected to arrive in May 1996. A
leaflet with details of all Jessop Portaflash units and accessories is
available on request.For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 0116 232 0432,
A LEG UP
A STUDIO stepladder � essential when using large format
systems for roomset or still life work � is now available in a highly
collapsible yet secure form from Calumet Trading through branches of KJP
and KJP-Hargreaves. The four-rung 42 inch high (�125 + VAT) or 3-rung 32
inch version (�89 + VAT) both fit easily into a car or a studio stand
case.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01908
646444,
BIG FILTERS
CROMATEK's filter system has been extended to include
a new 100mm square professional range for use with large diameter lenses.
The CR39 resin filters fit the Proshade 100 matte box with self-extending
lens hood up to four at a time, or a compact holder for a maximum of two.
A full colour catalogue is available on request.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01530 813381, E-mail
address if available - .
NEW STANDS
LIGHTWEIGHT easily erected display stands can be built
using today's large format computer enlargements in conjunction with two
new display systems from CPL subsdiary Standeasy. Expressions II is based
on Standeasy's existing pop-up action with a lazytongs frames and flexible
display material, while Stealth more resembles a traditional panel-based
system with information mounted on modules which contain the uprights and
connectors. The Stealth system looks more suited to studio reception
areas, where it can function as a room divider and display in one; it
forms its own carry-pack by sandwiching the panels together when
dismantled, and can thus be taken to shopping malls, wedding exhibitions
and other venues away from the studio.For further information, contact
(UK telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus
44 code for UK): tel 01732 863666, E-mail address if available -
.
LOCATION KITS
TWO BAGS are the basis of the new Elinchrom Location
Kits � and these guys have got themselves some decent photography for
once, as well. Nice product shots, especially the one with the two flash
heads. That's a subject we have photographed here a hundred times and
never come up with a composition as complex and clean as this picture. To
business � the Location Sets can include any combination of Prolinca or
Elinchrom heads up to two 500 Ws, two stands, two brollies, reflectors,
all cables, and extras like a softbox and circular honeycomb grids. Prices
start at �765 + VAT.For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 0171 833 3466,
LIGHT REMOVALS
THE LINES went dead for DHA, the company which
produces gobos for studio spotlights, when they moved to new premises at
284-302 Waterloo Road, London SE1 8RQ. Their new phone number fell off
Vauxhall Bridge on the way. After releasing the phone and fax numbers as
3600 and 3601 to their clients, on information supplied by the phone
company, they discovered they had been given the wrong details. The real
numbers are 0171 771 2900 (tel) and 2901 (fax). For those who do not
exactly understand what DHA actually do, despite their advertising, they
make high precision stainless steel patterns from artwork, to fit inside
projection spotlights and flash spot units, so you can put your own design
of background shadow into your images. You can have a client's logo cut,
by providing artwork, on a gobo which fits your particular make of flash
spotlight. Then you can project the logo whenever you need a special
effect for this client. DHA also put full colour images into projectable
form, and carry a large stock of standard motifs like palm trees, windows,
venetian blinds and so on. However, the big benefit of using them is that
you can get a custom gobo made up for a shot you have drafted a visual
for, and paid for by the client, at a worthwhile mark-up to your studio.
Because you own the gobo, you get repeat business. Clients love product
shots with their logo projected discreetly on the backdrop in a way which
can be cropped out for press use, or just looks like part of the shot � so
why not try it?For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0171 771 2900,
Q UP!
Q-LABS are set to be given a boost by their instigator, the
quality monitoring wing of Kodak which gives the coveted accreditation
only to labs using their materials and chemicals and meeting their daily
process monitoring standards. In future, photographers will have to use a
Q-Lab for processing to enter the Bride and Portrait Awards, because they
must be Kodak Promise of Excellence members, and this in turn means using
a Q-Lab. The only exception is for those who process and print in their
own darkroom � they don't have to get Q-Lab approval to enter. The rest of
the package to promote Q-Labs includes better field support, a better
helpline, and a series of 'initiatives' during the year.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01442 844092, E-mail
address if available - .
LO-REP e-6
A NEW E-6 colour developer, LORR, is about to supersede
the existing E-6 chemistry in professional labs using Kodak chemicals. The
new chemistry cuts solution use by around 50% and reduces the use of
sodium hydroxide along with effluent levels. Kodak expect to discontinue
the non-LORR chemicals later in 1996. Of the trial sites quoted in Kodak's
press release, one � Tapestry � admits "we've had some initial teething
problems" before saying "but it's a good product and it's settled down
well now". This is a commendably honest approach from Kodak's PR agent, as
it is unusual to include a quote like this in a publicity story. Even so,
readers who use E-6 film and need critical consistency should clearly be
on their guard to ensure that, just as they avoid Monday morning
processing, they manage to avoid the week or two when their own lab
encounters these "teething problems".For further information, contact
(UK telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus
44 code for UK): tel 01442 844092, E-mail address if available -
.
GREEN AWARD
DS COLOUR LABS of Didsbury, Manchester, are the latest
winners of the annual Fuji Hunt Greenlab award. This is given to the lab
best expressing the Greenlab ethic, minimising waste, and managing
disposal products through the Fuji Hunt effluent collection scheme for
used developer, fixer and other materials. DS has during the pst 12 months
been helping with trials of new low replenishment products, and has
installed state of the art equipment to reduce pollution.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01420 489071, E-mail
address if available - .
DIES CUT
TO PRINT a corporate logo on plastic slide mounts
requires an expensive die to be made up. Wess, manufacturers of the
industry standard heavy duty audio visual 35mm slide mount, has cut the
normal �120 price of cutting this die by one-third for all orders received
before March 31st 1996 through its UK distributor AVS. Most companies
which order pre-printed mounts with their own logos are either AV
production houses, or major corporates like banks, insurance companies,
pharmaceutical companies, shope chains and universities. The mount can be
standard grey or coloured and the printing can be in a choice of 13 ink
colours.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0171 625
8646,
GRETAG CHIEF
A NEW President has been appointed to the board of
Gretag Imaging Group, the manufacturers of conventional and digital
photofinishing process and print systems. William J Recker assumed the
post on January 1st as President and CEO. Hans Zulliger remains chairman
of the board and MD.For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 01753 840920,
DISTANT OASIS
THE TUDOR photographic group must do more export
business than we thought, because it has installed a Fuji Hunt OASIS Pro
computerised monitoring system which will enable Tudor customers anywhere
in the world to take readings from a control strip and send them by modem
to Tudor HQ for analysis.For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 0181 202 0811,
GRADE GUIDE
THE leaflet for the latest Jessop brand variable
contrast paper includes characteristic curves, photo examples and
extensive technical data. Included in this leaflet is a full table of YM
filter setting for popular colour heads, for Grades 0 to 5. The paper is
said to be compatible with current VC heads from De Vere, Dunco, Kaiser,
Leitz, LPL and Meopta. Jessop also lists both simple (Y or M only)
filtration for Durst and Kodak filter scales, as well as combined
exposure-constant filtration. The data confirms that the following
enlargers are calibrated in Durst values: Dunco, Durst, GEM, Kaiser,
Kienzle, Leitz, Lupo. The following use Kodak values: Ahel, Beseler,
Chromega, De Vere, Fujimoto, IFF, Jobo, LPL, Meopta, Omega, Paterson and
Simmard.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0116 232
0033,
TWO FOR ONE
DUNNS Professional Imaging have promotions running
until the end of March including one free print for every one ordered on
wedding and portrait enlargements over 10 x 12 inches, and one free
machine reprint for every album package film processed (vouchers valid
until the end of April). Film package d&p deals are also currently
discounted by 40%.For further information, contact (UK telephone number
- replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
013845 64770,
BUICK PHOTOGRAPHIC
BUICK Photographic's founder, John Buick
Sansom, has died at the age of 49 after a fight against terminal cancer.
The company, which pioneered colour machine printers capable of variable
sizes and large prints, will continue to be run by the Buick team. Our
condolences go to his widow and family. Buick Photographic had just
relocated, and the new address is 52, Wildbury Way, Hitchin, Herts SG4
0TP.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01462
454445,
AGFA EXECS
ROBERT STABLER has been promoted to head of Agfa's
Business Photo Group, while Chris Gould moves to take over his former role
as Marketing Manager. Philip Hill becomes head of Motion Picture. The new
Managing Director for Agfa UK is Heikki Koskimies.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0171 402 2272,
FAST PRINTS
DUNNS Professional Imaging has installed a second
Italian Polielettronica Videoprinter, a high speed machine enlarger with
on-screen video preview. The investment follows an improvement in workflow
from the first machine installed, and is part of an expansion of their
facilities by 50%.For further information, contact (UK telephone number
- replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
013845 64770,
DON'T NEGLECT
AUA Insurance has packages available for
professional negligence insurance for photographers, videographers and
mini-labs, within the scope of its existing insurance cover. Current
insurance can be extended to cover claims of up to �25,000 for �45 a year,
and larger figures up to a limit of �250,000, for photographers. Terms for
mini-labs are different with a �5,000 standard limit and �1,000 for any
one claim, plus �100 per customer film in the event of failure of public
electricity or water supplies, for �50 a year.For further information,
contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with international
dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0171 283 3311, E-mail address if
available - .
�1m SPEND
KONICA � for all those who wonder why photographic
magazines have been slightly thinner in the last few years � has announced
that it will continue to be a sponsor of television programming and a
television advertiser. For the fourth year, the company will sponsor
breakfast television on GMTV, this year including three programmes; it
will also advertise on TV from May to August. This will cost the company �
1,000,000.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0181 547 1566,
AD WINNER
KODAK's Pro Prize, given for the best European
advertising photography, has been awarded for 1995 to photographer Michael
Thompson for his 'Open Your Eyes' advertisement for The Economist.
Thompson is, appropriately, a New York fashion photographer and the
advertisement was co-art-directed by New York designer Barbara Kruger. You
can't get more European than that. The Young Pro prize winner was
genuinely European Garbergs Annonsbyra of Stockholm (well, OK, he's really
Scandinavian, but we let them in these days). His winning shot was for the
Levi's Dockers clothing E. C. Cotton campaign.For further information,
contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with international
dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01442 61122, E-mail address if
available - .
G.E. PROMOTIONS
PROMOTIONS at George Elliott plc make Keith Rosser
Director of Sales and Marketing for Imported and Exported Products (what
else do GE do?) and Paul Sparkes Director of Sales and Marketing for
darkroom and finishing lines. Keith plays drums for a hobby and Paul
enjoys sailing, which is convenient, as GE just happen to be one of the
country's leading marine suppliers when they are not a photographic
distributor.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
01892 724600,
OLYMPIC TICKET
IF YOU want a free trip to the Olympics in Atlanta,
Georgia, get in there and buy stacks of Kodak and Polaroid materials from
KJP, preferably in lumps of �50, as this is the figure which is rewarded
with an entry to the competition. Be sure to buy before May 31st and
submit entries by June 7th. For further information, contact (UK
telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44
code for UK): tel 01908 366344,
NEW 'BLAD OUTLET
GEORGE ELLIOTT plc has been appointed an official
distributor for Hasselblad equipment by Hasselblad UK Limited. They will
also stock Metz flash and Gitzo tripods, and offer a service facility for
all the products. They will be holding an open day and Hasselblad clinic �
as the first Hassel dealership in Kent � on Wednesday March 13th.For
further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero
with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0195 562198,
COMPACT ZOOM
YASHICA's latest compact AF zoom camera is the
Microtec 120, which features a 38-120mm lens and programmed AE with
backlight lock, sells for �249.99. It has a self-timer which can be set to
take three exposures in succession to ensure more natural
expressions.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
01734 311919,
NEW FOR OLD
FILTERS can be traded in for new ones under a new
scheme launched by SRB. They're looking for those redundant odd filters �
perhaps for a large lens fitting, or a system you no longer use � and will
allow up to �1 per filter off purchases of new SRB screw-in filters which
start at �3.95 for 49mm. Before trading in your 105mm B+W circular
polariser, however, we suggest you check up to see just exactly what it
would cost new...For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
01582 572471,
ROLL-ON GLUE
GLUE which can be rolled on to mounts or paper from a
dispenser, and rubbed off without leaving a trace if accidentally applied,
is offered in the Hermafix Transfer Glue dispenser from Fotolynx. Supplied
with one 15m glue tape roll, it costs �5.99 and refills at �2.99
each.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0117 963
5263,
TETENAL COMFORT
AN ODD name for a paper which doesn't come in
quilted rolls, Tetenal's new Vario Comfort follows their Vario Ultra as
the German maker's resin-coated multigrade black and white paper. The name
implies wide latitude in processing and exposure, and the new label shows
a smooth gradation of ininite tones instead of a set of different greys.
The grades covered run from ultra soft, 00, to extra hard 5 with Ilford
Multigrade filter set compatibility. The image tone is said to be slightly
warm, and gloss and pearl finishes are available in sheet sizes from
postcard to 20 x 28 inches, or rolls. The popular 12 x 16 size is now
available in ten-sheet packs for the first time. Initial tests indicate
that Comfort most closely resembles Ilford materials in performance.For
further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero
with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0116 263 0306,
LEICA VIRGIN
JUNO, the classically-named camera bag from CCS aimed
at classic rangefinder outfit owners (specifically, Contax G1 kits) has
proved herself popular with Leica M users as well. The makers report that
despite being tailor-made to fit the Contax, dealers are making sales to
M6 buyers. Our headline will become a little less cryptic if you try
fitting a Leica M6 kit in the sub-�40 Juno � the slightly larger Venus is
probably a better choice. Juno is now available in black as well as blue,
and is very solid indeed for its size, with a lid which flips over firmly
to stay out of the way, and thorough waterproofing.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0117 963 5263,
KAISER PRICE CUTS
KAISER BILL is slightly smaller up to the end of
March 1996 � in fact, your invoice will be cut by an average of �75 when
buying any of the manufacturer's new 6 x 6 to 6 x 9cm enlargers. The b&w 6
x 6 model 4465 now costs �389, the multi-grade 6 x 7 4471 costs �639, and
the new 6 x 9cm colour 4550 �692. In all, fifteen enlargers benefit from
the price cuts, including �160 off the top range autofocus 6 x 7 model
4500. All are modular, can be upgraded, and permit copystand and slide
duplicating adaptations.For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel 0117 963 5263,
NEw FUJI MD
FUJI's UK managing director for the last seven and a
half years, Mr Shozo Takekoshi, is leaving the company. His replacement in
London is Mr Toshio Nakamura, who came to Britain after managing the photo
giant' Seoul office. Shozo Takekoshi's period with Fuji UK has seen major
growth and changes, including the incorporation of the professional and
consumer divisions formerly handled by Hanimex, opening of the Bedford
technical centre, acquisition of Fuji Ireland as a subsidiary, and moving
graphic arts products in house. Staffing has grown from 100 in 1988 to
over 270 today.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0171 586 5900,
INSTANT 36
POLAROID PolaGraph HC and PolaChrome HCP are now
available in 36 exposure rolls as well as the 12-exposure cassettes. Only
PolaBlue high contrast graphic 'blueprint' film remains in 12 exposure
alone.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01582
632209,
WALL PLANNER
THE YEAR may have started, but for most professional
the season has yet to begin, which means that you still have time to join
the Kodak Promise of Excellence Programme by pledging yourself to use
nothing but Kodak materials, send all your work to a Kodak Q-Lab � and get
a free Marketing Wall Planner like all the hundreds of other Promise
members.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01442
844195,
AGFA'S CHOICE
A COLOUR landscape, 'L'Arbre du Causse Mejean", by
London-based photographer Marcus Lyon, taken on Agfa Optima 100 film and
printed on Agfa Signum paper, is the Agfa Collection Picture of the Year
for 1995. A signed and numbered limited edition of 150 prints has been
made.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0171 402
2272,
CLUB LAUNCH
THE FIRST seminar organised by the KJP Wedding and
Portrait Club, held at Drummond Street, was attended by 25 photographers
who saw Jon Gray demonstrate Hollywood beauty lighting with model Debbie
Cummings. The second seminar, in January, featured Ray Lowe.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 0171 380 1144,
ON-BOARD TESTER
BATTERIES with a built-in tester strip have been
introduced by Ever Ready in their Energizer range. The AA cell size so
important to photographers and larger C and D sizes of alkaline batteries
are to be launched in the spring in the USA, with Europe following later.
You press two green dots on the battery, and within ten seconds, an
indicator will either show the word GOOD, or fail to clear fully. The
development follows research which found that testers incorporated into
packaging, which is often thrown away by the time testing is necessary,
were not effective � the idea of a battery with its own tester appealed to
consumers.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0171 622 5549,
BARNACK AWARD
ENTRIES are invited for the 1996 Leica Oskar Barnack
Award, for a single photograph or a photo story of up to 12 pictures, best
expressing man's relationship to his environment. Work must have been
taken or series completed in 1995. The award is worth 10,000 DM. The
closing date is February 28th 1996 and entry forms are available from
Leica Camera.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
01908 666663,
QUALITY SEEKERS
ISO 9002 quality standard recognition has been
achieved by Leeds Photovisual Ltd, Premier Distribution Ltd, Sangers Ltd,
and Fuji Photo Film Co (UK) Ltd. In practice this means that thousands of
pages of forms have been filled in, more thousands of pages of
documentation produced, hundreds of staff or external auditors employed
(55 in the case of Fuji), and suppliers have been asked to fill in forms
whose principle question is whether or not they have done the same thing.
The products and services will, as far as we can gather, remain exactly
the same as before.For further information, contact (UK telephone
number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for
UK): tel ,
NENE MASTERCLASS
A MASTERCLASS programme has been sponsored for
Nene College of Further Education, Northampton, by George Elliott plc. The
subjects of master classes will be Documentary and Black & White
Exhibition Printing, celebrity workshops, Lighting Opportunities, Polaroid
Materials and Photographing Fashion. The first will be held over a weekend
in March. GE has also set up an award for second and third year students
of the college, which includes the exhibition of work at Focus on
Imaging.For further information, contact (UK telephone number - replace
first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01892
724600,
AGFA RE-RATED
THE 'TRIADE' films from Agfa � Ultra, Optima and
Portrait in 50, 125 and 160 speeds � seem to have faded into the
background as Optima takes over as a name. Since its launch in 125 speed
only, a 400-speed version was launched. Now the 125 is being re-rated to
100, and a new 200 speed launched, so that the Optima family of
professional colour negative films covers 100, 200 and 400 speeds. The
black and white series is also being re-named, with the 400 emulsion
becoming APX 400, though no indication is given whether this implies a
change to new grain technology as in the slower 25 and 100 films. Colour
coding is being added to all the silver pro boxes to help photographers
identify films rapidly, as it has been too easy in the past to confuse
RSX, APX and Optima when loading.For further information, contact (UK
telephone number - replace first zero with international dialout plus 44
code for UK): tel 0181 560 2131,
WEDDING BOOST
FUJI is spending a six-figure sum on advertising and
promotion in the bridal press and exhibition circuit, to support
professionals by persuading brides and mums to book a pro studio for the
wedding album. A full colour double page advertisement has run in the
first issue of Good Housekeeping's Wedding Magazine, and is booked for
others including Dolce Vita, a 200,000-run annual wedding guide issued by
the Goldsmith Group. The advertisement specifically mentions and supports
the BIPP, MPA, Guild of Wedding Photographers, and both southern and
northern Irish pro associations. A colour leaflet for photographers to
give to prospective customers backs this up. In February, Fuji are present
at the National Wedding Show, Olympia, and have given stand space to BIPP,
MPA and GWP.For further information, contact (UK telephone number -
replace first zero with international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel
0171 586 5900,
TOUGHER MPA
THE MPA has toughened up its entrance and
qualifications requirement in a surprise move which gives the association
even more credibility than the rival BIPP. Instead of the traditional ten
examples of saleable professional work being the minimum requirement for a
Licentiateship, in future twenty examples specific to the applicant's
chosen field of work must be submitted, and can not be personal material �
it must be commissioned work, and has to be within a stated category.
Associateship and Fellowship requirements are tightened up similarly, the
only flaw in the new rules being the outlawing of transparencies at
Fellowship level, which effectively cuts out most of the best commercial,
advertising and stock photographers from becoming Fellows as they would
consider prints to be a second-rate copy from their original, normally
only made for layout purposes. A comprehensive guide to the new
qualifications structure is available now from MPA HQ.For further
information, contact (UK telephone number - replace first zero with
international dialout plus 44 code for UK): tel 01325 356555, E-mail
address if available - .
Back to February 96 Contents