DIGITAL CAMERA WORLD

Sigma provides for four of its camera models each new firmware ready to improve the functions of cameras and add new ones. The Sigma SD1 the version 1.09 is ready for the SD1 Merrill 1.04 and for the DP1 Merrill version 1.01 and version 1.02 for the DP2 Merrill. Here, the innovations in the DP1 and DP2 Merrill Merrill are identical, the same applies to changes to the Sigma SD1 SD1 and Merrill.

After the firmware update, the DP1 and DP2 Merrill Merrill are able to maintain the settings even after firmware updates. Furthermore, there is a new twist in the color mode, the "FOV Classic Blue" states. In addition, the automatic white balance improves and focus frame can also be shown on the display when the display of the other symbols on the display is disabled. Also on display will be superimposed grid lines now more clearly shown and set the flash exposure compensation is now possible via the Quick Menu. Fixed the error that switched off the Auto ISO setting when the camera is turned off while the storage of images. Schließelich it is now possible, the AF + MF mode to activate the AE-lock button, and when it is set to Center AF Lock.

The SD1 SD1 Merrill and learn a little less, but no less interesting changes. Thus, the accuracy of auto focus enhanced by better algorithms and the ISO sensitivity can be adjusted in increments of 1/3 EV. Moreover, it is now possible to set the upper and lower limits of the ISO automatic to limit the work area. The color mode of the SD1 SD1 and Merrill was also extended to select the "FOV Classic Blue" and between the Quick menu items can now be changed even with the aperture and shutter speed dial.

The latest updates are available on the English Sigma website and can be installed by the user, what is being described. Also notes how the new features can be operated are to be found there. Who is the update but not its confidence should contact the sigma support or its dealer.

The exposure meter Kenko KFM-2200 replaces the now veteran KFM-2100. Like its predecessor, dominated the KFM-2200, both the light and the spot metering - with either continuous light or with flash. And the viewfinder with 1-degree field measurement and integrated diopter correction and the additional screen are the same. The KFM-2200 has a memory function for up to ten readings and several new features such as the mean value function for the calculation of the average of the values ​​stored in the preset mode or "Alt" for customizing various displays.

The parallax Peilsucher displays a 17 degrees wide and 12 degrees high rectangular image, in the center of a small circle indicates the measurement field of one degree. Below is an additional display that shows the measured value as aperture or EV value in tenth step - just like the large display. The symbols for the difference in brightness measurement or verification of compliance with the pre-selected exposure latitude are there to detect. The exposure latitude display mode of KFM-2200 also represents the results of light and spot measurements represent The display in the parameters aperture, shutter speed and ISO to a rectangle, which value is to be measured. A triangle informed about the entry of the other two values ​​on the dial side. The reading of the results will also work in the dark, thanks to steadily for five seconds or switchable illumination.

Other features in addition to the old and the mean function belongs, for example, the difference in brightness function, which indicates the deviation of individual measurements of the predetermined standard lighting. A built-in flash analysis, the amounts of flash and ambient light to the overall exposure by a single flash metering. The KFM-2200 replaces a lux meter When changing the dome against a optional accessory diffuser. The display can be switched to Lux, the conversion to Lux is internally programmed. The KFM-2200 is now available for 780 euros in stores.

Kenko Introduces KFM-2200 Flash Meter

Digital full frame cameras were assumed to be expensive workhorse for professionals and photo enthusiasts. Amateur and advanced amateur photographers, however, the small display format remained mostly unaffordable. Just in time for Photokina 2012 Nikon D600 now with a full-blown DSLR associated with 24-megapixel full-frame sensor on the market, the street price is at the time of our tests already dropped to just under 2,000 euros. Is it worth the extra cost of about 800 euros compared to Nikon's APS-C Model D7000? And maybe even the professional photographer may have to save this sum without remorse when he gets to take D800 to D600 smaller? We have the Nikon D600 filled in the test laboratory of digitalkamera.de and in extensive use in the dental practice.

Ergonomics and processing Although it is the first miniature camera in the consumer line of Nikon, the D600 conveys already at the first glance a decidedly adult impression. In this case it is advised visibly smaller than the large full-sister D800, compared to APS-C-D7000 model, the dimensions D600 grown in all three dimensions only by a few millimeters. This diet has a positive effect on the weight of the D600 - it stays with an empty weight of 760 grams still fairly handy. To relatively portable weight but also contributes to the generous use a lightweight magnesium-aluminum alloy for the casing, only the front of the camera is made of a low-cost, yet high-quality polycarbonate. Nikon has put together this excellent mix of materials, even getting physically leaves the D600 stoically endure, creaks and crackles because nothing.

The ergonomics of the D600 is fully in line with Nikon's true: The controls on the back are arranged so that the camera can operate very quickly with the thumbs of both hands. For example, the requirements for the ISO sensitivity and white balance are changed instantly. Top left of the top plate sits a handy mode dial that is secured with a lock to prevent accidental adjustment. Including Nikon has ordered a turntable, with the can, for example, switch from single shot to the sequential mode. The right half of the upper side is dominated by a large-area status display, which can be illuminated with a light turning on the main switch. Within the reach of the right index are also the trigger for video recordings as well as the exposure compensation button and to select the metering mode.

Nikon D600  Two easily accessible dials provide convenient for thumb and middle finger of the right hand help her features to ensure that the D600 can also be seen through the viewfinder quickly and easily adapt to the needs of the recording situation. Also, a preview button is not missing, they may as with Nikon used to be assigned as needed with a different function. If necessary, bring a touch of the rear Info button a very comprehensive overview of the currently selected settings on the monitor - and more: Many parameters can be selected in the Info view directly with the handy four-way rocker switch and change.

Thanks to the variety of equipment with dedicated buttons and switches, and interactive info-view saves you in everyday practice many a way into the very extensive menu of the D600. To find their way here, it requires some learning curve - so diverse are the possibilities offered by the D600. A convenient way by this command and option jungle clears it with his very own individual menu that allows the photographer to very often summarized clearly needed adjustments. This allows the D600 to cut like a tailored suit perfectly to your needs.

In use, the D600 proves handy as pleasant despite their size. Pronounced her she can handle herself with the long and somewhat heavy-telephoto AF-S Nikkor 70-200 mm 1:2.8 G ED VR safely in the hand, the photographs with the significantly lighter and more compact set-lens AF-S NIKKOR 24 -85 mm 1:3.5-4.5 G ED VR is straight and easy. Those who have never looked through the viewfinder of a miniature DSLR will find the view through the large optical viewfinder than the D600 true splendor. He shows a great and pleasant bright picture and is thus on the viewfinder of the D800 in anything larger. Even an electronic level can show itself, then the exposure scale displays at the bottom of the viewfinder if the camera is tilted to the right or left.

Nikon D600 with AF-S 24-85 mm of the view through the viewfinder is difficult to achieve - such as ground-level subjects or overhead shots, brings the live view of the D600, the viewfinder on the rear display. It is with a diagonal of 3.2 inches tall and lush releases with 921,000 pixels on pleasantly fine. It is a pity, however, that the Nikon D600 also denied a retractable and tiltable display. Falls the viewfinder difficult to control for very large viewing angles, especially in bright light.

No cause for criticism, however give the covers of the interfaces. You are struck properly with a hinge and can be closed easily. The bottom of the camera is presented as to be: The tripod thread is made of stainless steel and is properly seated in the optical axis. The lid of the battery compartment is far enough away from the tripod mount, so that the energy source accessible even with an attached quick release plate stays. And (based on CIPA standard) with a duration of approximately 900 shots of battery the D600 offers a pleasingly long breath.

Equipment that the D600 is not just for professional photographers shows, even before you turn on the camera at all. Unlike the professional DSLRs, the D600 series offers a familiar mode dial, which indicates with a green symbol AUTO: The D600 can also be operated as an intelligent full automatic. Then, the photographer needs to worry about anything. Once the camera detects the subject situation, it sets itself to one. Those who do not trust this fully automatic, can the D600, however, also set by default scene mode, on each situation. 19 such Scene modes from portrait to landscape to macro, the camera - because for each subject should be the appropriate automatic be there. Not even on the flash you have to worry about it - he works off if the situation requires it. Here, the D600 displays pleasing farsighted: Taking for example the portrait program with a light source, the on-board flash of the camera automatically controls precisely and sensitively with the fill light dose that makes the portrait emerging from the dark. Alternatively tames the camera very high subject contrast by Auto HDR. She takes on several differently exposed photos and then combines them into one image, which is from the darkest depths of perfectly drawn up in the brightest lights. Is cumbersome, however, that the HDR function can be activated only in the thicket of the menu and can not be combined with the design programs. Especially for less experienced photographers Nikon would like the HDR function may also provide a further scene mode.

Demanding photographers find the D600 virtually anything your heart desires or requires each situation. Whether an automatic program, the possibility of semi-automatic or even manual exposure or exposure bracketing -. The equipment list of the D600 is so extensive that you have to look far for a gap And should be but once something missing, is found in the wide range of accessories from Nikon quickly a stopgap. About the handy wireless adapter WU-1b for about 60 euros, which the camera uses to contact a smartphone or tablet. The small adapter is simply plugged into the USB port and then he transfers selected recordings or the viewfinder image to the mobile device. Is matched by Nikon's a free app for Android (and soon iOS), which helps to focus the remote trigger and D600. Also missing is perhaps one of the professional PC sync socket for connection to a studio flash system - but it is available with the AS-15 an adapter, which is simply pushed into the ISO shoe. There are no restrictions on the D600 board flash, with the camera seamlessly integrates with the "Creative Lighting System" - the on-board flash can control as master wirelessly connected system flashes. The flash functions of the D600 are very diverse, second-curtain flash on missing any more than the ability to slow sync or a separate flash exposure. In comparison to big sister D800, which has a flash sync speed of 1/250 second, have to make do with the D600 with 1/200 second - a small restriction, which is thought to play a role rare in practice.

Only at very intensive study of the technical data indicates where Nikon has set the D600 compared to the D800 red pencil. About the light meter, the RGB sensor has to get on with the D600 still lush 2016 pixels. Nikon has also saved the auto focus of the D600, the camera essentially takes the AF module, the D7000 with 39 sensors (including 9 cross-type sensors). The sheer number of measurement points focus has proven in practice always be sufficient. Not always practicable, however, is the arrangement of the measuring fields: you jostle with the compromised by an APS-C camera AF module but badly in the center of the full-frame viewfinder. If the desired point of focus at the edges of the crop, the camera must first centrally focused on capturing the moment and then swung at half-pressed, triggers are - a process especially wide open telephoto lenses the subject can quickly than desired slide from the focal plane. Even when tracking a subject loses the AF contact with the subject long before this has arrived at the edge.

Really it comes down to business, if the D600 is switched to continuous mode. She sprints off with around 5.5 JPEG photos per second (fps), in RAW, it creates even 5.8 fps. Thus, the D600 is noticeably faster than the D800, but can its burst rate is not in conjunction with the optional MB-D14 battery grip still further. In practice, much more important than the pure shooting speed, however, is the persistence in the sprint. Get the D600 shows with 28 JPEGs or good five seconds quite a long breath. Will be recorded in RAW format, you go, however after only 15 shots out of steam. Then the D600 falls into the leisurely jog, in which they continue to trot with 1.5 fps in JPEG or 1.4 fps in RAW images. Bearing in mind the considerable amount of data that the 24-megapixel image sensor for the Sprint features the D600, however, quite remarkable. The camera's shutter is incidentally designed for 150,000 cycles, that is occasional sustained fire can uncomplainingly endured. That the D600 data processed very fast, can be felt in the operation: the camera responds instantly to input and also working quickly typed command sequences fluently.

While the photo features of the D600 leave little to be desired, it is shown in video not in all respects to the amount of time. Although it shoots movies in full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080 pixels), the frame rate is there but a maximum of 30 frames per second (30p). Designs should be filmed, fast-moving, the D600 can probably also record with 50 frames per second, but the resolution is 1,280 x 720 pixels limited. The (elected or of the automatic transmission) at recording start given aperture can no longer change, while recording - not even in manual exposure mode. Upon request, the D600 performs during movie recording by the focus, does so, however quite leisurely works and shows also ineffectual: the contrast autofocus visible pumped back and forth, the set AF-S Nikkor 24-85 mm 1:3.5 - 4.5G ED VR also audible. Even when the camera is held steady at a subject, the Continuous AF adjusts focus continuously on, creating an uneasy impression. Videographers with high expectations, however, this is less disturbing - they equip the D600 with special video lenses and lead the focus on pivot point exactly by hand. The video professional is also pleased that the D600 provides a jack for an external microphone and audio recording can even disqualify manually. In addition, the D600 can about their HDMI jack to transfer the uncompressed data stream, such as on a professional recording device.

As usual with Nikon, the D600 is not stingy with editing functions in playback mode. Images can not only rotate, crop, or, they can also be retrofitted with effects or optimized. For example, lightens the D-Lighting function on even afterwards tapered shade. Or corrects the distortion aberration of the lens. And with the perspective correction can compensate for keystoning and just about toppling buildings erect. If you want to alienate his shots found, including numerous filters and special effects in the playback menu. Demanding photographers will be pleased that the D600 can also convert raw images into conventional JPEG format. And since the camera takes two SD memory cards, the raw files are stored on one card while the other their JPEG counterparts records.

Lens on the Nikon D600 can use all Nikkor AF lenses, including older models without own focus motor. The camera detects a DX lens (with an image circle corresponding APS-C), the picture is cropped accordingly, the resolution then drops to 3936 x 2624 pixels (approx. 10.3-megapixel). We had the camera in the test with the AF-S Nikkor 24-85 mm 1:3.5-4.5 G ED VR, with the D600 is also available in a set. The tube of the standard zoom is Nikon D600 with AF-S 24-85 mm [Photo: Media North] made largely of plastic, but provides no means a cheap impression. This is also supported that Nikon produces its lens mount made of solid metal. Weighing in at nearly a pound, it is especially recommended as always-like lens. While there are more intense by Nikon lenses with a similar zoom range, this is the 24-85 mm 1:3.5-4.5 equipped with an image stabilizer.

The imaging performance of the kit lens tear to rapturous applause from not just go in everyday practice, however, in order (more on this in the Image Quality section below). The situation is similar with the AF speed. Does the D600 at 24 mm focal length around 0.25 seconds to Focus and Shoot, it takes on the long telephoto end of 85 millimeters twice as long. Is focused manually, however, the D600 reacts within right brisk 0.05 seconds on the timer. Significantly slower pace, the camera in Live View mode goes to work. Now the focus is determined by contrast measurement on the image sensor and adjusted, which contributes about 1.5 seconds, a bit chewy. Is delivered in the Live View mode manual focus can be a magnifier switch indicating a freely selectable image section up to 19-fold increase. Further focus aids, such as a peaking function that marked contrast edges within the sharpness level offers the D600 does not, however.

In order from the flood of digital cameras out to attract attention, a manufacturer must have come up with something. Less fashionable accessories such as bright colors or even patterned enclosures are designed for serious photographers important but rather technical features. In this extreme focal length ranges and special effects filters or enhanced functions are usually tapped already. Since Panasonic stands with the unique feature of an integrated luminosity of 2.8 over the entire focal length range of 25 - out of 600 millimeters (KB). In our test lab and in a copious practice test had to show the Lumix DMC-FZ200, what's out of high brightness in her.

Ergonomics and processing with the typical appearance of bridge cameras - it is a small SLR is very similar - the Panasonic FZ200 is not particularly noticeable. Despite the powerful lens it looks actually quite delicate. However, the handle is also excellent in the big hand. Shutter and zoom buttons are easy to reach with your index finger, and even-handed operation is possible. The appropriate weight of about 600 grams gives some solidity, though, the housing is made of plastic and looks a bit cheap. AV/USB- and HDMI port on the right side and the connection for the external microphone to the left is protected by unobtrusive plastic caps from contaminants. The combined memory card and battery compartment is hidden behind a solid door with a decent lock. Unfortunately, the tripod socket is clearly outside the optical axis and very close to the hinge, so even a tiny quick-release plate is blocking access to memory card and battery. Discreetly hidden below the housing there is at least one opening which serves for carrying out the battery dummy cable. So at least in stationary operation, the battery must not be changed.

Most buttons are located in the thumb area and make all a thoroughly good impression. The central main program selector snaps fill one of the ten items, but can still be set easily. Since he has no stop, any function can be achieved by the shortest route. Besides the usual functions, there are two free-to-configure positions. On top of the camera are located next to the two triggers for photo and video recording still a function key and a switch to set the shooting functions.

The back is another five keys are available, two of which are individually configurable. A Rändelrädchen completes the features. Of course there is also the usual four-way rocker. Since all the buttons are sized quite generous and have yet to get enough space, the operation falls within a short time also hard not blind.

Whereas in "intelligent auto" the camera almost all self-regulating and allows very little influence, allowed the photographer to determine when other modes much himself. The wheel on the thumb cavity acts as a program shift or aperture ring, changing parameters or change after a short press to another function. In manual mode, you can switch it to, for example, between aperture and shutter speed, which is very practical. For focal length adjustment has the Panasonic is not only the familiar zoom lever on the trigger, but a second slide switch on the left of the lens. Both switches offer two speeds . This allows very comfortable precise zooming. The button on the lens but can also be assigned to the manual focus. This could work to the eye to the viewfinder much better than fumbling at the thumbwheel when the focus motor anspräche only slightly more sensitive and direct. Directly on lens can also select from AF, macro AF and MF, where the photographer manually with the help of another button can be helped when focusing. purpose but in the "features" anymore.

Trips to the menu are rarely needed because most of the functions can be selected directly. Depending on the operating result of different length menus: In the simplest case it contains only four pages, in the most complex, there are only six in the shooting menu and a total of fifteen. This has not to confuse the advantage beginners unnecessary, but experienced users to allow enough tweaking. The menu is quite clear, all functions are divided into three or four riders, which are in turn subdivided several times. In principle, all the settings are easy to find, only slightly longer leaves is sometimes necessary - with this function is the fullness inevitable. Do not forget the flash that must be inconsistently with fully automatic folded out manually from the viewfinder housing. Unfortunately, the mechanism seems quite shaky and the Blitzchen rises only slightly above the optical axis. This leads to the typical compact camera lighting as red eyes and ugly, flat lighting. Well, that the shoe accommodates an external flasher.

The electronic viewfinder on the Lumix FZ200 leaves a split impression: First, it is sufficiently sharp and feinpixelig, on the other hand is something towards tunnel vision. Not so, as with other models, but with today's technology it is much more possible. In the model we tested also disturbed a strange flickering when zooming and panning in a jerking. Much better already felled the display. It is anchored in all directions tilting and turning to the left edge of the casing, with 460,000 pixels fine enough resolved, clear and brilliant. An image information can be shown everything Usual, including different grille and a histogram. An exposure preview simulates the FZ200 when the shutter button is pressed halfway to focus. Uncomfortable, that can be switched between the viewfinder and the display by pressing a button is needs an automatic would be appropriate here.

Features a camera that pushes forward priced into the dimensions of system cameras may leave nothing to be desired, even at speed. After turning on the powerful lens moves to the start position and the FZ200 is ready to shoot in about one second. Unfortunately, access to the menu or other features will be delayed due to memory card requests for another long second. Is this forced break overcome the Lumix reacts quite fixed on the key commands. When the burst speed however remains little to be desired. Photos are shot at up to 12 frames per second at full resolution and up to 60 frames per second at reduced resolution to 2.5 megapixels. Recording time is one second, then the internal memory is full and the camera is not even concerned with image processing and meanwhile denied further orders.

Of course the recent Lumix Bridge has to offer much more. It can be used in "smart" auto mode make all the decisions themselves can also be operated as a fully manual. Therefore, it is suitable both for beginners and even children's photo, is also growing with the claims. Besides the usual automatic modes, the camera offers 18 scene programs, including the usual portrait, landscape and sports programs.

The automatic panorama makes while Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 of up to 360 degrees-ranging pan photos in quick succession and merges them into a wide screen. The maximum resolution is indeed limited to 8,000 x 1,440 pixels, but if no moving objects in the picture and you swung smoothly, the quality impeccable. Also, the Auto HDR uses a fast frame rate to create over-and underexposed shots one with high contrast. The results are convincing and impress by lower noise in the dark areas. Meanwhile, a must: the 3D program, which also receives a rapid sequence of images with a swiveled camera photos that can be viewed in three dimensions at suitably equipped television sets.

The autofocus module can be configured quite differentiated. First, there are individual and Continuous AF, focus tracking and face detection that can detect up to six registered individuals, on the other hand but also a full manual mode with Magnifier. Unfortunately makes the indirect transfer of control commands focus manually somewhat spongy. After all, the power to the screen magnifier for precise control in quickly. Who in manual mode but not quite like giving up comfort pushes the little knobs on the left and the automatic lens performs reliably. In the distance measurement, the photographer can confide in the 23 AF areas, or select a focus area, whose size and position can be adjusted. Also, the meter is either multi-pattern, center-weighted or spot metering available, which in difficult lighting situations every wish.

A live histogram that shows even before the recording exposure details to support the photographers you find the optimum exposure. Unfortunately, it is with a size of about one square centimeter of limited usefulness. Complements the histogram after shooting through the Highlight Alert, which can be activated in the menu. For creative gamblers provides a wide field of the Lumix picture influencing parameters: images with highly saturated colors, various monochrome versions, toy effects and much more.

The camera is also very interesting for videographers. The FZ200 features optional on in AVCHD or MP4 format, which can be selected in each case between three qualities. Moreover, in high-speed mode movies at up to 200 frames per second are recorded in VGA resolution. Playback is at eightfold time dilation. Under all normal video mode, the optical zoom can be used, it works very quietly and without noise on the soundtrack to post. Next you can improve the sound recording with an external microphone, which can then also better protected against wind noise.

The subject moves, not too fast, the AF module even manages to keep the focus. Only the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 long end of the Lumix manage increasingly hesitant. The Image Stabilizer keeps the image on the other hand nailed. In conjunction with the large maximum aperture, which is maintained up to the maximum focal length, the FZ200 especially in video mode play to their strengths. Sun film is really fun.

Extensive are the options for editing images afterwards. With "AutoCorrect" high contrast can be compensated. Rotate, crop images, and change the resolution is also possible. But the 14 creative filters in the shooting menu are subsequently available. The camera stores the result of processing as a new file, the original remains so. In addition, videos are shared fairly comfortable and adjusted for unnecessary areas.

Moderate 12-megapixel image quality on the admittedly small 1/2, 3 inch sensor promise in combination with the bright zoom lens a reasonable image quality. In our own test laboratory had to prove the Lumix FZ200, Panasonic has designed a balanced mix. The full laboratory test with detailed test results can be accessed for a small fee on the related link. The measurement of the resolution shows in any case that even at maximum aperture excellent values ​​can be achieved by 40 line pairs per millimeter. To the long focal length toward the resolution is only slightly worse, but does not really dim much. From f/5.6 the resolution that is already reduced and then clear in Aperture 8 break. Positives: the lens is fully open so blinded fit and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200  should also be used like that! This is even true almost across the whole field of view, only in wide angle is a significant loss of sharpness towards the edge detect. Also, vignetting and distortion are low or almost invisible, certainly not problematic. If you want the lens to express a further rebuke, then because of the chromatic aberration. However, this error occurs more at the long end and exceeds 1.5 pixels visible only slightly. When stopping to take this error very wide angle. That is probably one reason why the resolution at full aperture is almost the best.

The sensor of the FZ200 is not an excessive number of pixels, but it is also quite small. In the metrology lab, he showed a relatively low signal to noise ratio. Even in the input sensitivity, he is not much higher than the critical value of 35 dB. To ISO 1600 while he falls moderately but continuously. The texture sharpness, which transmits the fine, irregular details confirmed this behavior. Even at ISO 400 exceeds the loss of texture inconspicuous area and is clearly visible from ISO 1600. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200  input dynamic swings it to ISO 800 but around a good 10 stops and only drops off at higher sensitivities. The best image quality is obtained, therefore, at ISO 100 and aperture. Pixel-level magnified images of the FZ200 act artificially structured yet lightweight. For prints up to A4 about but that is no problem.

Where color fidelity, the Panasonic scores again. Only slightly distorted color reproduction combined with excellent white balance characterize the FZ200. The shutter lag is with and without pre-focusing a quick tenth of a second, just long end indulges the autofocus lag 0.6 seconds. Throughout the test period, the battery had to be recharged only once, by the way, and despite intensive use of the display. The Panasonic is a true cross-country skiers!

Conclusion The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 leaves a mixed impression. On the one hand, the lens has maximum aperture a good performance over the entire zoom range. On the other hand breaks the image quality when stopping and starting as soft hail sensor ISO 100 For large magnifications should the picture noise is visible. The equipment, however, is enormous, especially for video graphers FZ200 offers many possibilities. From beginners to dedicated amateur has the Lumix almost limitless possibilities. She remains in the face of the basic parameters of the lens quite handy. So if you looking for a fully featured camera with a uniquely bright giant zoom lens, but on pictures, size 20 cm x 30 cm can restrict receives the FZ200 with a handy all-rounder with great

By Digisix 2, the Digiflash 2, the Digipro F2 and the second software update for the DIGISKY Photo Accessories Manufacturer Gossen has updated its range of light meters. Digisix Digiflash 2 and 2 were revised. The Digipro F2 can now also specify the exposure values ​​in 1/2- or 1/3-stop increments. DIGISKY, light meter and remote control in one, can be updated using the website of gutters on the firmware version 2.0. Thus, in addition to the radio triggering Elinchrom flash heads can also be adjusted by radio their performance.

The two small light meter Digisix 2 and 2 Digiflash weigh just 40 grams you are suitable for the simple light measurement with integrated contrast measurement. This allows the photographer to find out if the subject contrast of the sensor or film can be successful. The Digiflash 2 is equipped with a flash metering function. For both instruments Gossen has revised the design. For 160 euros you get the Digisix 2, the Digiflash 2 costs 200 euros The Digipro F2 dominates the light and reflected light for flash and ambient light, making it suitable for studio and outdoor use. It shows mixed lighting conditions and required multiple flashes and performs measurements of contrast. Its functionality has been expanded to display the exposure values ​​in 1/2- or 1/3-stop increments. It costs 300 euros.

Derr DIGISKY can be powered via the website of the pits with firmware version 2.0. He recognizes all Elinchrome RX strobes with integrated or externally connected EL-Skyport radio receiver and controls individually. The functionality corresponds to the description of "direct device mode" by Elinchrom. It can be set up to three studio sets and stored, controlled up to six studio flashes (RX and BX) and up to eight jobs over the radio channel are separated 1.8. There is a multi-function control for "all flash units" and "Lightning Group 1-4". Who is limited to the measurement with radio control can be used in conjunction with Elinchrom Skyport Universal Radio triggers and flash devices from any manufacturer. DIGISKY features a switchable diffuser for plane and spherical light measurement and controls the light and reflected light for flash and ambient light. With the cine function, the aperture for movie transition rate of 2 to 100 fps and full-aperture angle of 45 to 315 degrees can be determined. DIGISKY measures the illuminance or luminance. It costs 380 euros.

The French manufacturer of optical filters Cokin systems is known among experts for his "Creative Filter System", the company founder Jean Coquin 1978 brought to market. It allows the use of filters regardless of the lens diameter. With the "Pure Harmonie filters" Cokin offers for the first time in classic, round filters, which are screwed into each of the appropriate size on the lens. "PURE harmonie filters" are characterized by their extremely lightweight and its small thickness. Be offered a UV filter, a circular polarizing filter and an ND filter.

The multi-coated anti-UV (UV MC) filters are 3.3 millimeters thick, the Circular Polarizer (PL C) 4.5 mm, and the variable-density Neutral Gray (VD NG) 9.5 millimeters. Cokin assured that the filters are very robust, despite their delicate design. They are compatible with all lens caps and have a multi-coated surface. The so-called Everclear 5 Coating makes the program name. The 5 stands for the five benefits of this coating: water repellent, oil resistant, dust-resistant, stain-resistant and scratch-resistant. The light weight of the filter (a Cokin PURE harmony UV filter having a diameter of 77 mm for example, weighs 10 grams) on the one hand facilitates the handling of the lenses and allows the other hand according to the manufacturer a high-precision auto-focusing. The ultra-flat profile filter to prevent vignetting.

mm. The glass used is extremely heat resistant and allows a very high light transmission. The cost, depending on the diameter from 34 to 60 euros. The same sizes are available for the polarizing filter. They cost from 69 to 110 euros. Is the ND filter it with dimensions from 52 to 82 mm for 130 to 260 euros. The effective intensity is achieved by rotating the front ring of ND2 (1 f-stop) to ND400 (7 + f-stops). All PURE harmonie Cokin filters are available from November 2012.