The BESSA III is a high portable, folding bellows camera that allows extremely high-quality images to be taken using a high-performance lens unit. The camera is equipped with an unique mechanism for switching between to film formats.   Type: 6 x 7 type rangefinder folding camera Film format 6 x 7 and 6 x 6 by selector switch         6 x 7 size: 56 x 69mm 6 x 6 size: 56 x 56mm Film 120 or 220 roll film Frames 6 x 7 size: 120 – 10 shots,                   220 – 20 shots         6 x 6 size: 120 – 12 shots                   220 – 24 shots Lens HELIAR 3,5/80mm 6 elements in 4 groups Angle of view: 6 x 7 size = 57° Angle of view: 6 x 6 size = 53° Focusing Manually controlled helicoid Focusing range 0,9 m – inf. Finder Coincidence type rangefinder with bright frame and automatic parallax correction. Macro ratio X 0,7 Diopter correction Eyepiece diopter (19mm tread) can be screwed on. Indicators in view finder LED - Aperture Priority Auto Mode and properly set shutter speed indicator lit.� - Manual exposure mode - Battery consumptoin warning Shutter Electronically controlled lens shutter. Shutter speed 4s – 1/500 sec. Exposure control Center weighted average metering. Exposure compensation: +/- 2 by 1/3 steps Film speed Manually set. ISO25 – 3200 by 1/3 steps Film winding By film advance dial Film counter Additive type with auto reset, automatically switched to 120 or 220 type synchronized with film type selector switch on film pressure plate. Battery X1 CR2 Lithium battery Size 178mm x 109mm x 138 mm or 64mm (closed) Weight 1,000g

To read about The History of VOIGTLÄNDER, follow the link to their site.  I still have two pristine Voigtlander Vitomatic IIa bodies from the early 1960s that I am selling.  You can see photos of them on my photography site.

With the support of the JPG Magazine community via forums, blogs, and savejpg.com, JPG Magazine lives to see another day.  Thanks to the new investors, JPG Magazine is up and running once more.  And with new features added.  If you have not joined, do so now.  Its free and a great way to showcase your work.

JPG Magazine is a community connected by a love of photography.  The best photos and stories are then published in the printed issues of JPG Magazine.  Click on the photo below for the latest issue, #19 titled FAITH.

Nikon’s first DX-format 35mm single-focal-length lens

TOKYO –Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the DX-format 35mm single-focal-length lens AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G, which offers a picture angle equivalent to a focal length of 52.5mm in FX and 35mm formats.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G features a large maximum aperture of f/1.8 enabling effortless handheld shooting in dark settings, such as a dimly lit room. This lens makes it easy to create large, beautiful blur effects. And the built-in Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures fast, quiet autofocus, even with SLR models that do not have a built-in motor, such as the D40 series and D60.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is the first single-focal-length lens with a normal picture angle developed exclusively for Nikon’s DX format. It is a compact, lightweight model that achieves the high reproduction performance unique to single-focal-length lenses at an affordable price. This lens is most suitable for natural portrait and landscape shooting.

AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Major Features

• DX-format, normal single-focal-length lens with 35mm focal length (picture angle is equivalent to a focal length of 52.5mm in FX and 35mm formats)
• Large maximum aperture of f/1.8
• Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures smooth AF operation
• High-performance optical system with aspherical lens delivers superior reproduction capability
• Compact, well-balanced design when attached to small SLRs
• Two focus modes available – M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual focus)
• Metal mount
• Natural blur effect thanks to seven-blade rounded diaphragm

AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Specifications

Episode #037, 2009 Audi R8 

Mr. White’s lucky streak continues unabated as he gets into an Audi R8. Unaccustomed as he is to such exotica, he proclaims the design superior to the F430, though Mr. Black and Mr. Blonde disagree. Discussion covers the engine, the lack of torque-vectoring, the fine exterior design and how it’s the best quote yet of the Auto Union GP cars of the Thirties, the Italo-Aryan interior dimensions, and the semi-auto gearbox that sure ain’t no DSG. 

Duration: 54:12
Size: 60.95 mb
Format: Enhanced AAC
Direct download: ORP-Episode037.m4a 

Duration: 54:12
Size: 74.47 mb
Format: MP3
Direct download: ORP-Episode037.mp3 ]]> http://www.lockergnome.com/cadco/2009/01/04/open-road-podcast-episode-037-audi-r8/feed/ http://www.lockergnome.com/cadco/2009/01/04/open-road-podcast-episode-036-2009-nissan-gt-r/ http://www.lockergnome.com/cadco/2009/01/04/open-road-podcast-episode-036-2009-nissan-gt-r/#comments Sun, 04 Jan 2009 08:36:50 +0000 cadcosystems http://www.lockergnome.com/cadco/?p=128

Episode #036, 2009 Nissan GT-R 

When Mr. White gets a lucky run, he sure makes the most of it. In this segment, the boys discuss Mr. White’s time in a Nissan GT-R. Torque-vectoring, AWD, cast aluminum structural components, just how many tens of thousands of dollars Nissan is eating on each GT-R sold, and the need to race this box at Le Mans. 

Duration: 50:40
Size: 41.20 mb
Format: Enhanced AAC
Direct download: ORP-Episode036.m4a 

Duration: 50:40
Size: 46.42 mb
Format: MP3
Direct download: ORP-Episode036.mp3 

Tags: Nissan, GT-R

With Extreme 24.5-Megapixel Resolution, Processed Image Files Exceeding 138 MB, Five Frame-per-Second Burst Speed and Nikon Core Technologies, the D3X Ushers in a New Level of Image Quality

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Nov. 30, 2008) – Nikon Inc. today announced the D3X, an FX-format digital SLR featuring extreme 24.5-megapixel resolution and superb low-noise capabilities, which provides professional photographers with commercial-quality image performance in a familiar and extraordinarily versatile D-SLR form factor. In conjunction with the groundbreaking Nikon FX-format D3, the D3X tops off a collection of flagship level, rugged, professional caliber digital single lens reflex cameras engineered to excel in all types of professional photographic disciplines from photojournalism and sideline sports, to commercial in-studio applications.

The foundation of the enhanced performance of the D3X is its FX-format, 24.5-megapixel (6048 x 4032) CMOS sensor providing commercial, high fashion, fine art and landscape photographers with the extreme resolution, dynamic range, color depth, detail and sharpness that clients demand. Whether creating catalogs, magazine covers, billboards or gallery prints, the large 5.49-micron pixel size and high signal to noise ratio produces vibrant images with breathtaking image fidelity while reducing lost highlights and shadows, and ensuring smoother tone reproduction with minimized noise. With full resolution shooting speeds of up to five frames-per-second (fps), and 14-bit files, that when processed are approximately 138 MB, the D3X offers today’s photographic artists an extreme level of performance and versatility ready for demanding assignments in the studio or on location.

“In 2007, the 12.1-megapixel FX-format D3 delivered groundbreaking digital SLR image quality, coupled with incomparable high ISO, low noise performance and high-speed handling. In doing so, the D3 broke photographic barriers, enabling photographers to work in ways never before possible,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “Now, the new 24.5-megapixel FX-format D3X D-SLR provides the extreme resolution and high dynamic range capabilities needed to meet the extraordinary needs of photographic disciplines such as high fashion, commercial advertising and fine art. The D3X delivers this remarkable capability while fitting seamlessly within the Nikon system, taking full advantage of Nikon’s world-renowned collection of NIKKOR lenses and Speedlights.”

Image Quality Takes Center Stage

To re-emphasize the importance of image quality above all else, the D3X delivers an incredible level of digital SLR performance to provide photographers with extremely high resolution, exceptional dynamic range, phenomenal total gradation and outstanding color reproduction. Image files can be recorded as TIFF, JPEG or NEF (RAW) formats in either 12- or 14-bit compressed or uncompressed formats, and recorded to UDMA compatible CompactFlash™ cards for optimum speed. Photographers can save image files directly to the dual card slots as overflow, backup, or as separate file formats to different cards. Building on the D3X’s flexibility, users have the creative option to shoot in the 5:4 crop mode with 20.4-megapixel resolution, the ideal format for creating 8 x 10-inch portraits. While using DX-format lenses, faster continuous shooting of up to seven frames per second can be achieved at a resolution of 10.5 megapixels.

The exceptionally low noise of the D3X is essential to any professional commercial application, and it provides photographers with an ISO range of 100 to 1600, expandable to 50 (Lo-1) and 6400 (Hi-2). The ultra smooth tones and lack of grain at ISO 1600 as well as at low sensitivity settings result in smooth, natural skin tones and exacting detail that, before the D3X, required larger and far costlier studio-bound camera systems.

Advanced Technologies, Meticulously Executed

In a commercial setting or on location, imaging professionals need high performance in both speed and processing. The Nikon D3X can shoot at up to five fps at full resolution or up to seven fps in DX crop mode, allowing photographers to catch the split-second difference in a model’s expression or capture all of the action in a sequence. Just like the D3, the D3X achieves a start-up time of a mere 0.12 seconds and a shutter release time lag of 0.04 seconds.

The D3X’s speed, as well as high levels of performance, leverages Nikon core technologies including a newly enhanced EXPEED™ Image Processing System, specially designed for the D3X to provide superior image quality, faster processing speeds and lower power consumption. This advanced system is able to achieve extremely precise color reproduction for a broad spectrum of hues, in addition to vivid saturation and smooth gradation. What’s more, Nikon’s advanced noise processing function is engineered to minimize noise at all sensitivities and operate seamlessly without interfering with other image color parameters.

The D3X also features Nikon’s exclusive Scene Recognition System, which continuously analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor, to further refine auto exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. This results in flattering portraits and awe-inspiring landscapes that portray accurate color and fine details. Nikon’s exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II helps ensure accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Instantly evaluating each scene before capture, input data from the system’s sensor is automatically referenced against an internal database of more than 30,000 images derived from actual photographs to calculate correct exposure values. Active D-Lighting, used in combination with 3D Matrix Metering II, helps to determines proper exposure, and creates realistic contrast while compensating for lost shadows and highlights. Prior to shooting, users can choose from Extra High, High, Normal, Low or Off settings, as well as an Auto mode.

Additionally, the D3X features Nikon’s exclusive Multi-CAM 3500FX focus module, with 51 AF points, 15 cross type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors that easily track and lock onto moving subjects, delivering the same fast and accurate AF performance that helped make the D3 immediately successful. Users can select any of the AF points, making it easy to consistently attain accurate focus right on a subject’s eyes, frame after frame. Additionally, three AF-area modes – Single point, Dynamic-area AF and Auto-area AF – are available to maximize the use of the 51 focus points by selecting the most suitable one to match subject conditions. AF is also available in one of two Live View modes optimized for the studio, including a phase detection handheld mode and a tripod mode. This feature allows the user to zoom in up to 27x on the LCD screen to ensure critical focus. While in Live View, the graphic indication of a virtual horizon is also available, making it easier than ever to confirm camera orientation.

To further ensure each photographer’s ability to balance their personal style, Nikon’s Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. Photographers have creative control over these image parameters with the use of up to nine available customizable presets.

Synchronizing Both Form and Function

Engineered for real-world functionality, the D3X retains a rugged shell with moisture, dust and shock resistance that has become a hallmark of flagship Nikon D-SLRs, while preserving the usability and ergonomics that allow the camera to remain an extension of the photographer’s vision. Attention to detail goes so far as to include a self-diagnostic shutter system that is tested to exceed 300,000 cycles for maximum durability and longevity. The camera’s body also maintains the resilient magnesium alloy construction and form factor of the D3, promoting consistent Nikon system synergy.

A bright and accurate viewfinder offers 100 percent coverage with 0.7x magnification. The body also houses Nikon’s acclaimed 3.0-inch super density LCD screen, now relied upon by so many photographers. The high-resolution 920,000-dot screen is viewable at wide angles up to 170 degrees, and will allow photographers to quickly zoom in to confirm critical focus. Users can also output the video signal to an external display via HDMI to allow client viewing. Thanks to incredibly efficient internal circuitry, the D3X can capture up to 4400* shots per single charge of the camera’s Lithium ion battery.

System Strength Withstands the Test of Time

The D3X is fully compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS) to give photographers a mobile lighting solution that is easy to manage. To further enhance mobility, the D3X is compatible with Nikon’s GP-1 GPS receiver to gather information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and date of shooting. Photographers can easily shoot tethered via USB, or use the WT-4a wireless transmitter to send images wirelessly when speed and mobility are essential. D3X users will also enjoy the system strength of more than 50 genuine NIKKOR lenses that provide outstanding sharpness and high resolution across a broad range of focal lengths.

Price and Availability

The Nikon D3X will be available at Nikon Authorized Professional Dealers starting December 2008, and will be available for an estimated selling price of $7999.95.**

* Based on CIPA Standards

** Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.