Weekly Email - 1-27-12 - Do You Really Carry a Camera All the Time?

Folks always ask me if I really do carry a camera all the time and the answer is a resounding YES.  100% no matter where I go or what i do.

So this week I decided to include a few shots I could have only made with a handy camera in the spur of the moment.

My camera this week was the Fujifilm X100 and I like to mix it up often between 3-5 different cameras depending on my mood or location.

Hopefully you can feel the moments and enjoy the images. 

X100 - ISO 1250 at F/2.2 @ 1/20th

X100 - ISO 1000 at F/2.8 @ 1/140th

X100 - ISO 1000 at F/2.5 @ 1/40th

Fujiiflm DS7, Apple Quicktake 200 & DS-505A

Over the years several companies have worked together to produce innovative products.  Here are a couple examples where looking back I wonder who gets the credit for the camera?  My how time flies as Fujifilm gets ready to launch their own X-Pro1 interchangeable lens camera.  A product which raises the bar and I'm waiting for with great excitement to use.
http://fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x_pro1/index.html
Do you think Apple made the Quicktake 200?
Of course looking back they seem quite simplistic.  Imagine that DS-505A - the 20 MEG - not GIG - PC Memory Card sold for approximately $700.  
Here are a few early rigs:

I am an employee of FUJIFILM North America Corporation.

The statements, comments and opinions expressed here represent my own, personal views and are not endorsed by, or affiliated in any way with, FUJIFILM North America Corporation or its affiliates.

Fujifilm FinePix 4-Proof Cameras

I'm a big fan of owning a 2nd or 3rd or whatever number it is camera which is a 4-proof unit.  The 4-proofs are so handy for all the things you want to have a camera for but think better at the moment than using your X100 or X10 for.  Like a messy snowstorm, a snorkeling trip on a small boat, playing with the kids at the beach, snowboarding, etc.

Having a camera with me at all times is a must.  This is a 100% steadfast rule.  I'm not a big camera-phone fan so I prefer the "real" thing for all its manual controls and zoom capabilities.

The Fujifilm XP series is now better than ever.  I'm psyched to see improved speed and much brighter screens which will improve the shooting experience.  Here they are with the press release and specs.

 http://fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/xp/

Fujifilm FinePix XP150, XP100 and XP50 Press Release


FUJIFILM INTRODUCES ALL NEW RUGGED AND DURABLE FINEPIX XP150, XP100 AND XP50 DIGITAL CAMERAS THAT TAKE YOUR OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY TO NEW HEIGHTS

Extreme “Four-Way Protection” Refines What a Durable, Stylish Outdoor Camera Should Be

Valhalla, N.Y., January 5, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of the all new FinePix XP150 (with GPS) and XP100 (without GPS) digital cameras that take rugged protection and durability to a whole new level. Now, they are Waterproof to 33ft (10M) and Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. In addition, the all new XP50 also fights water, shocks, cold and debris by being Waterproof to 16.5ft (5M) and Shockproof to 5 ft (1.5M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. With all this protection, you are certain to get your most adventurous shots, all with an extremely attractive camera body that is easy to use.

As a follow up to the highly successful XP-Series and its definitive “Four-Way Protection” each camera has been redesigned to deliver a brighter LCD screen, faster auto focus speeds, better ergonomics, and advanced functionality for all weather conditions.

The new durable FinePix XP-Series now feature the powerful and performance-driven 14-MegaPixel CMOS sensor, faster start-up and shot-to-shot times, up to 10 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting, a 2.7” anti-reflective, high-contrast LCD that has been brightened for clear viewing even in direct sunlight, and the high-precision, FUJINON 5x wide angle optical zoom lenses (28-140mm) with a reinforced hardened glass lens barrier and water repellent coating.

“Active families have redefined the uses for a digital camera, and Fujifilm’s versatile and durable XP-Series lets consumers capture images in more places,” said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “The XP150, XP100 and XP50 thrive in elements that most cameras are afraid of, and allow users to capture photos and movies in new and unique ways, even underwater.”

Four-Way Protection

The FinePix XP150 and XP100 are Fujifilm’s most rugged and durable digital cameras that are perfect for mountain biking, hiking, skiing, surfing, and anything else that defines an extreme adventure. Both the XP150 and XP100 are Waterproof to 33ft (10M) and Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof.

The XP50, also extremely tough and stylish, is perfect for active families on the go that want a camera they can take anywhere without worrying about its safety. Consumers can drop them, soak them, freeze them, and even cover them in dirt and mud, and the XP-Series will come out unscathed and taking great pictures. The XP50 is Waterproof to 16.5ft (5M) and Shockproof to 5 ft (1.5M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof.

Newly Redesigned Double Locking Door

The ergonomically-designed cameras are housed in a metal uni-body chassis for durability, and now feature a totally redesigned double locking door that seals and protects the battery and memory card slots, along with the USB and micro-HD ports. This new, heavy-duty door keeps the XP-Series cameras watertight and locks out dust and debris in any situation that you can throw at it.

HD Capability

The FinePix XP150, XP100 and XP50 all offer stunning movies in full 1080p HD – even underwater – with sound at 30fps with one-touch ease. Many consumers are happy to enjoy HD movies on their PC, but with the optional HD Player accessory kit, with wireless remote control (HDMI cable not included), families can gather around their home HDTV to enjoy amazingly detailed stills and high resolution movie playback.

Advanced Image Stabilization

The XP-Series all have a powerful sensor shift Dual Image Stabilization (CIS) system. CIS works as the photo is being taken as it combines a mechanically stabilized sensor with high ISO to combat camera/hand shake and subject movement for improved low light shooting. The result is an expanded range of shooting situations where the cameras can be used without the need of a tripod or other support. With CIS working in the background, you can capture sharp, colorful scenes and portraits underwater or at night.

Tracking Auto Focus (AF)

Created specifically to capture an action shot, the AF function tracks fast moving subjects so they don’t escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed; when users fully press the shutter button your subject will be in the centre of the photo in perfect focus.

GPS and Geo-Tagging (XP150 only)

The FinePix XP150 features a high sensitivity GPS antenna that is now quicker and easier to pinpoint your location, no matter where you are in the world. The FinePix XP150 also includes an electronic compass, Photo Navigation and GPS Geo-Tagging

In addition to these innovations, the cameras are loaded with the following features:

360° Motion Panorama Mode: Automatically creates a stunning panoramic (horizontal or vertical) picture.

Scene Recognition Auto (SR AUTO): This mode intelligently identifies the scene type and necessary shooting conditions to optimize picture perfect potential.

Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal: To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the XP-Series cameras are fitted with Fujifilm’s latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.

Li-ion Rechargeable Battery: The XP150 and XP100 both feature an extended-life rechargeable Li-ion battery with charger for up to 330 shots per charge. The XP50’s rechargeable Li-ion battery delivers up to 220 shots per charge. Either way, the XP-Series allows users to shoot all of their images without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of their trip.

Movie Editing Mode and Blog mode: Get creative and add finishing touches to movies and images, among others, you can choose from black and white, Sepia, or you can even add a dynamic lighting effect, all this in-camera.

The FinePix XP150 and XP100 will be available March 2012 at $279.95 and $249.95, respectively. The XP150 will be available in black and orange, while the XP100 will come in black, blue, orange, silver and green.

The FinePix XP50 will be available in March 2012 for $199.95 and will also come in black, blue, orange, silver and green.

An accessory kit for the new XP-Series containing an adjustable float strap, protective silicone skin and a neoprene sports case will be available in spring 2012.

Weekly Email - 1-20-12 - CES Press Conference

Last week I was in Vegas for the annual Consumer Electronics Show.  A massive show which draws about 130,000 people to Vegas for a week long event highlighting all the latest technology products from thousands of companies.  The action in the booths there is palpable.  Every company is putting on their best show.

Fujifilm had a product launch I attended where we announced our new X-Pro1 pro digital camera.  The takeaway from an event like this which drew almost 200 press attendees is that time is money and the live blogging from the event was furious!  At the conclusion of the event the camera was in Kayce's hand and the crowd around her made for a fun shot.  Usually if you see 12 or so guys with cameras crowding a woman you'd think there must be a bikini involved - but at CES it was all for the 2012 CNET Winner of best camera at the show - the X-Pro1.

If you'd like to see a live discussion about the camera click here to my video interview on it:
http://brandonremler.blogspot.com/2012/01/fujifilm-x-pro1-first-look-sync-uptv.html

Have a good weekend.

Fujifilm X-S1 ISO 800 at 1/15th @ F/2.8

Press Conference Crowd blogging away!

Fujifilm X-Pro1 CES 2012

CES 2012 is a wrap and the follow up begins!  Certainly it was great to have an exciting product launch and a camera which captured a lot of attention and many awards - including the CNET top Camera of CES 2012.  Here are some shots from the week to show the action around the X-Pro1 and the media attention from the multitude of sites.
More soon as I gather the feedback and images from CES.

Video Interview at Playboy.com

http://www.playboy.com/entertainment/jo-garcia-tests-out-the-new-fuji-x-pro1
CNET Best of Show - Cameras
http://ces.cnet.com/8301-33371_1-57354573/fujifilm-goes-mirrorless-with-new-x-pro1-camera/?tag=mncol%3bcontentBody.4
PDN Online
http://www.pdnonline.com/pdn/gear/CES-PMA-2012-Fuji-U-4315.shtml
Luminous Landscapes
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/fuji_x_pro1_launch.shtml
DigLloyd
http://diglloyd.com/blog/2012/20120112_5-FujiXPro1-XFLens.html
Digital Trends
http://www.digitaltrends.com/
The Verge
http://www.theverge.com/2012/1/9/2694187/fujifilm-xpro1-official-price-release-date
Sync Up.TV Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUuObhzZbyQ&feature=related
Digital Camera Review.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY1JA8DTRS4&feature=related
Photography Bay Press Conf Coverage
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5LbgUDPLME&feature=related
Crunch Techie
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JysWoxFg5lY&feature=related

www.dpreview.com

CES Press Announcement

A nice new menu system with the Quick button

X-Pro1 is a Winner!

I am an employee of FUJIFILM North America Corporation.

The statements, comments and opinions expressed here represent my own, personal views and are not endorsed by, or affiliated in any way with, FUJIFILM North America Corporation or its affiliates.

New Fujifilm X100 Limited Edition Black Body!

It's here! The X100 Limited Edition Black Body.  The camera will ship with a special black hood, case and filter.  Each camera includes a numbered certificate and will be limited to 10,000 cameras.

 • DSLR Size 12.3 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
• FUJINON 23mm (35mm Equivalent)
Single Focal Length Fixed F2.0 Lens
• Switchable Optical/Electronic Viewfinder
• 2.8” LCD Monitor w/440k - dot resolution
• JPEG + RAW (Process In-Camera)
• 100-12800 ISO Capabilitites
• HD 720p Video w/Stereo Sound
• Classic Design Magnesium Alloy Body
• Includes all black lens hood and filter adapter
• Includes Black Leather Case

Fujifilm X-Pro1

The time has finally arrived and the new X-Pro1 is here!  Its been really interesting to watch the forums and blogs, and hear all the thoughts of photographers about how this camera was going to arrive.  The wait is over and now we all know what we have to work with.  
With a newly designed high performance 16MP APS-C sensor and resolution surpassing full frame cameras - the new X-Pro1 will be a hot item for many photographers.  Rather than list all the new features - I'll leave that to the 1,000's of blogs to cover since I'm working at CES now.   Images soon!
Here are some of the images of the newest member the the Fujifilm X series camera system:

The new QUICK MENU !

The NEW HYBRID Viewfinder with lens overlays

Look Ma - no RAW button!

I am an employee of FUJIFILM North America Corporation.

The statements, comments and opinions expressed here represent my own, personal views and are not endorsed by, or affiliated in any way with, FUJIFILM North America Corporation or its affiliates.