Huawei P9 with Dual Leica Lens combines performance and photography at the right price

Think about it. Most phones that offer the most rounded experience in terms of usability, performance and power packed imaging capabilities are the ones that are the most expensive to purchase. In some cases you'd need to loan out a kidney for the same. Just login to some of the e-commerce websites and you will find the answer to that question.

The new P9 changes the game on its head in that regard. Sure, it isn't the cheapest phone around, but if you want a phone that can marry all crucial smartphone elements under one block of metal and glass then it is the new P9. This of course also includes the value for money quotient something which some of the high-end phones don't attempt.

Why? For starters, with its dual Leica lenses on the back, it pretty much deploys the most powerful still camera currently available on a smartphone. If you thought the camera on the iPhone and the latest Samsung Galaxy was an in-balanced equation, Huawei of all the companies in the mix comes up with the balanced equation.

More importantly, this is a phone that looks like million bucks, it has good battery life and very impressive performance. The performance of the phone particularly is an eye opener. While some of the high-end flagship smartphones in the market are prone to heat up a lot when running resource intensive tasks - the P9 remains cool as a cucumber. It also has the chops to run the most graphically taxing games like Shadowgun without breaking sweat.

The end result is a device that represents great value; in terms of usability, design, performance and unparalleled mobile photography.

Source: Huawei P9 with Dual Leica Lens combines performance and photography at the right price

The Goods

Bare BackerLeica's gone back to the future with the M-D rangefinder. The Leica M-D (Typ 262) is the first full production model in the digital M line that has no rear LCD monitor. Instead, the stripped down but classic-looking Leica M-D has an ISO sensitivity dial on back. (A few years ago Leica did release the M Edition 60, which also had an ISO dial instead of a rear screen, but that model was limited to 600 units.) The 24-megapixel M-D is loaded with other digital amenities to complement its functional form factor, including Leica's fast Maestro processor and the ability to capture Raw images in Adobe's DNG format for quick editing. Other than that though, the M-D is pretty minimal, even ditching Leica's classic red dot logo from the front plate to create a discreet design. There's also an extremely quiet shutter and cocking system that can shoot at 2 frames per second (fps) i n single exposure mode. In continuous mode, the M-D can shoot at up to 3 fps to help capture candid moments.

Leica M-D (Typ 262)$5,995leica-camera.com

Sure GripThere are tons of grips and cases for smartphones out there but nothing quite like Pictar. The Pictar camera grip is an ergonomic device that lets iPhone users take mobile photography to a whole new level thanks to an array of SLR-like external controls. Pictar, which slides over your iPhone, includes five user-programmable wheels and an ergonomic grip for one-handed shooting. The grip communicates with the iPhone via a dedicated camera app that unlocks some key imaging features previously inaccessible to iPhone users. In one of the more clever concepts with this device, Pictar uses "high-frequency dual tone sounds" to control camera functions and settings. Each physical control is assigned a specific tone, and when you turn a dial, press a button, or twist a wheel, Pictar omits a sound which—when detected by the app—generates a corresponding action. The high-frequency dual tone (18,500-20,000kHz) is inaudible to the human ear and increases battery life when compa red to Bluetooth connectivity. Other key features include a useful exposure compensation dial, a customizable "smart wheel," a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount on the bottom of the device, and a cold shoe on top. Pictar will initially be only compatible for iPhones 4 to 6, but support for other models will be forthcoming.

Pictar$90 (available in December 2016)mymiggo.com

Impossible CameraIt seemed improbable but the long-awaited instant film camera from The Impossible Project is finally a reality. This reimagined Polaroid-style instant camera uses Impossible's new I-type film as well as standard 600-type film. The I-1 features a built-in ring flash for diffused light that's perfect for portraits. Used alone, it functions as a simple point-and-shoot instant camera, but when paired with an iPhone and an app, the creative possibilities emerge. When coupled to your iPhone, you can experiment with light painting and double exposure, as well as access additional controls such as aperture, shutter priority, and manual modes. The Impossible team acquired some of Polaroid's assets back in 2008 and embarked on a project to modernize the business and sell their own instant film. Along the way, they have repeatedly hinted that a new camera was in the works. It has finally arrived.

Impossible I-1$299us.impossible-project.com

Legendary LensGerman optical company Meyer-Optik Görlitz is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its acclaimed Trioplan line by relaunching the legendary 50mm Trioplan "Soap Bubble" lens, so named for its unique bokeh characteristics. The new 50mm f/2.9 Trioplan features premium build quality, modern coatings, and a 1:4 reproduction ratio for macro photography. Meyer-Optik Görlitz was founded in 1896, and their current mission is to "make the best art lens on the market" using superior design, engineering, and materials. The new 50mm f/2.9 offers the same soap bubble bokeh of its predecessor and utilizes a moveable front element to increase the reproduction ratio to 1:4 for close focusing to under 12 inches. The Trioplan 50mm f/2.9 will be available in mounts for Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, Fuji X, Micro Four Thirds, M42, Leica M, Leica L, and Pentax K.

Trioplan f2.9/50$1,299 (available in January 2017)meyer-optik-goerlitz.com

The Goods spotlights the hottest premium photo gear out there. If you have a product you'd like considered for The Goods, e-mail images and info to editorial@shutterbug.com.

Source: The Goods

MCC to offer 3 new courses on mobile phone photography

CRYSTAL LAKE – McHenry County College is offering three new courses this semester teaching aspiring photographers how to take professional photographs and videos on their smartphones.

"These classes are important because people are using their mobile phones now more than standard cameras," personal development coordinator Claudia Terrones said.

Interested students can choose from three different courses on mobile photography and videography that will be taught by award-winning photographer Hossein Khandan.

One of the newly offered courses is called Professional Tips on Mobile Photography. During this course, students will receive expert guidance on how to use mobile phones properly for photography. The course will go over how to control exposure, how to create a shallow depth of field and how to make good composition on a mobile phone.

"Khandan gave an example that if you're taking a picture of a moon on your phone, it will typically look like just a white spot with a glow around it," Terrones said. "But he can teach the students how to get a good, professional-looking photo of the moon instead of just a glow."

This course will be from 10 to 11:50 a.m. Saturdays, Sept. 8 and 15 in MCC's Room E201.

The other two unique courses MCC will offer this semester focus on mobile videography. One of the courses will be an interactive workshop that teaches students a step-by-step process on how to use a mobile phone as a video camera. In this class, students will learn how to avoid focus issues and how to create the best shots possible using their mobile devices.

The videography class will be from 6:30 to 9:20 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27, and Thursday, Sept. 29, in Room E204.

These three classes will not be a part of the photography certificate program currently offered at MCC.

Source: MCC to offer 3 new courses on mobile phone photography

Raw Processing Workflow With Adobe Lightroom Mobile

One of the many ways that technology has impacted photography is regarding accessibility. With mobile apps such as Instagram, 500px, and Flickr, being able to push photos at the whim of any cellular connection, it only makes sense, or so it seams, for the importing, culling, and editing be just as accessible and mobile, and just last July, Adobe's Lightroom Mobile released, which allows just that.

All types of RAW files can now be synced to your mobile device for importing, culling, and editing purposes. Although these are great functions to have on a phone, one must ask: Are these functions efficient?

Internationally acclaimed travel photographer and educator, Elia Locardi, seems to have an answer, and in the video herein he walks through the process of recreating one his most famous images underground in Stockholm, all via Lightroom Mobile.

GEAR USED IN WORKFLOW

–iPad Pro

–lightning to SD Card reader

Elia's workflow begins with plugging in an SD Card reader which triggers an import dialogue, natively, on Apple's iPad. After making sure that the desired photos are fully imported onto the iPad, Elia opens up LR mobile and creates a new collection called 'Stockholm, Sweden' where he then clicks "add photos from camera roll". From here, all imported photos are added onto LR Mobile and synced to the catalog which he opens on his desktop later.

While on his iPad, however, Elia highlights a couple key features that he takes advantage of before going to LR Desktop:

LOCAL ADJUSTMENTS

TWO FINGER TAP FOR RATING AND CULLING

And, Once you're ready to see your photos on the desktop, open LR Desktop and create a new catalog, then sync LR mobile to the specific catalog and your photos will begin to populate:

[rewind: LIGHTROOM CRASH COURSE: THE ORGANIZATIONAL POWER OF KEYWORDING & FILTERING IN LIGHTROOM]

What are your thoughts on Lightroom Mobile? Do you find it convenient? If you're reluctant to even try it, why? Let us know in the comments below. And make sure, if you haven't, check out Photography 101, where we teach how to get professional style photos using kit lenses and camera bodies. Also check out Elia's work here, which really defines what travel photography should be.

Source: Raw Processing Workflow With Adobe Lightroom Mobile

Olloclip Studio for iPhone 6/6S/Plus - Petagadget

The olloclip brand includes a growing line of ground-breaking tools and accessories for the mobile photographer. Leveraging the phenomenal success of its flagship product, the 4-IN-1 Photo Lens, the company continues to innovate with products like the new wearable 4-in-1 lens for iPhone 6 & 6 Plus and other revolutionary products like the Telephoto + CPL lens, Macro 3-IN-1 lens and Quick-Flip case — all designed to push the parameters of what's possible in mobile photography.

The KickStarter crowdfunding platform inspired founder Patrick O'Neill to evolve his olloclip concept into a reality. Since then, olloclip has attracted a legion of passionate users in just a few years' time. The company remains committed to finding new and exciting ways to enhance the mobile photography category — and make capturing and sharing life's experiences more fun and creative.

olloclip Studio is the combination of an all-new, more protective case design that incorporates an integrated rail mounting solution (patent pending) and a series of mobile photography accessories. Both the case and accessories are designed to intuitively work together the moment you pick them up. Unlike many of today's modular mobile grip systems, olloclip's Studio components seamlessly work together so you can focus on capturing the opportunity in front of you and not on building a rig.

Core to olloclip Studio is the new Studio Case. Beautiful as a stand-alone case, the Studio Case is our most protective yet and is built to withstand most accidental drops. It also includes an innovative mounting system for the entire line of Studio accessories, like our Kickstand accessory mount for watching a movie or reading your favorite book or blog.

Source: Olloclip Studio for iPhone 6/6S/Plus - Petagadget

DJI introduce the Osmo Mobile to shoot cinematic views with a smartphone

Leading drone maker DJI introduced on Thursday the DJI Osmo Mobile, a handheld gimbal that turns a smartphone into an intelligent camera to make videos or photos, ready to share.

"DJI is changing the way people capture and share their moments and memories," said Wang Tao, founder and CEO of DJI.

By integrating anti-shake technologies with the use of the DJI GO app, the Osmo Mobile can smooth and even cancel out the movements users make walking around, ensuring that the shot is steady and smooth. Additionally, the ActiveTrack technology built into the DJI GO allows the Osmo Mobile to automatically track the subject.

The Osmo Mobile supports live-streaming and motion time-lapse videos that show the passing of time, like recording the stunning sight of a sunrise or sunset. It also allows users to make sharp night shots with long exposures that are controlled by dragging a finger up or down the phone screen.

The main controls are provided on the handle itself, including a customizable joystick for panning and tilting the gimbal, a start/stop button and a shutter button, as well as a trigger to toggle modes.

The Osmo Mobile applies to most smartphones sized between 58.6mm to 84.8mm in width, and can be used in operation modes including Standard, Portrait, Underslung, and Flashlight.

Operation modes for the Osmo Mobile (Photo screened from DJI's site)

The Osmo Mobile is priced at USD 299 on DJI's official site.

DJI has had great success in recent years, having seen its net profit increase from USD eight million in 2012 to USD 250 million in 2015. DJI is estimated to hold 70% of the commercial drone market worldwide, according to Reuters.

(Top photo from Baidu Images)

Source: DJI introduce the Osmo Mobile to shoot cinematic views with a smartphone

Very Thin, 10x Optical Zoom ‘Hasselblad True Zoom’ Moto Mod™ Camera Module...

Hasselblad in Sweden has teamed up with Motorola in Chicago to revolutionise mobile photography with the 'Hasselblad True Zoom' – a 10x optical zoom Moto Mod™ compatible with Moto Z smartphones.

'Hasselblad True Zoom' Moto Mod™ instantly snaps on to the Moto Z smartphone using magnets.

Celebrating 75 years, we proudly introduce the first collaboration of the '4116 Collection': Hasselblad True Zoom Mobile photography X10

We have teamed up with Moto to revolutionise mobile photography with the Hasselblad True Zoom – a 10x optical zoom Moto Mod compatible with Moto Z smartphones. The Xenon flash and physical shutter makes it easy to capture incredibly detailed images in any environment. In addition the mod gives users the option to shoot RAW format images which can be edited using Hasselblad's own imaging software Phocus.

The 'Hasselblad True Zoom' instantly snaps on to the Moto Z smartphone using magnets.

'Hasselblad True Zoom' Moto Mod™ to be snapped onto Moto Z Smartphone (left), 'Hasselblad True Zoom' Moto Mod is attached to Moto Z (right)

The optics and imaging process have been optimised by Hasselblad engineers.

Hasselblad '4116 Collection'

PRESS RELEASE

2016-08-31

Iconic brand launches range of products and collaborations to celebrate anniversary

Celebrating 75 years at the forefront of photography, Hasselblad is proud to announce the launch of the '4116 Collection', a new range of products and special brand collaborations to mark this anniversary. Since 1941, Hasselblad has been at the forefront of the imaging industry. This year, the '4116 Collection' celebrates the past, while looking forward to the future.

Innovation and Iconic Design

Hasselblad's medium format H6D

Drawing on Victor Hasselblad's philosophy of innovation and design, Hasselblad launched two completely new products earlier this year. In April, the H6D was introduced, a medium format camera designed from the ground up with an all-new electronic platform. A ground-breaking move followed with the launch of the X1D, the world's first compact mirrorless medium format camera. The X1D is a 50MP camera weighing less than half that of a conventional digital medium format camera. Inspired by the brand's iconic design heritage, the camera is ergonomic and compact – offering a handling experience unlike any other. The X1D combines portability with excellent optical quality for which the brand is renowned.

Hasselblad X1D

In addition to the expanded product offering, Hasselblad has teamed up with like-minded partners to create exciting new product collaborations to celebrate the 75th anniversary. Hasselblad is working across a broad spectrum of brands within the imaging world that share the principles of innovation and design.

Moto x Hasselblad : Transforming Mobile Photography

MOTO 34 with phone white

Hasselblad has teamed up with Motorola to revolutionise mobile photography with the 'Hasselblad True Zoom' – a 10x optical zoom Moto Mod™ compatible with Moto Z smartphones. The 'Hasselblad True Zoom' instantly snaps on to the Moto Z smartphone using magnets. It offers a physical shutter, Xenon flash and zoom, making it easy to capture incredibly detailed images in any environment.

MOTO 34 White

The 'Hasselblad True Zoom', which was designed by Hasselblad in Sweden in collaboration with Motorola in Chicago, delivers a superior imaging experience with excellent ergonomics for superior handling and control. The optics and imaging process have been optimised by Hasselblad engineers. The mod allows users to shoot raw images which can be edited using Hasselblad's Phocus software. Phocus is designed to be intuitive and easy to use. It gives users the tools to edit images for the highest quality image output.

MOTO side

ALPA x Hasselblad: Sharing Expertise

ALPA

Hasselblad and Swiss camera maker ALPA have formed a collaboration allowing an unprecedented exchange of expertise and technical information. With a shared philosophy of superior design and precision engineering the partnership grants ALPA access to Hasselblad's technical documentation regarding their cameras and lenses. It allows ALPA to adapt its technical cameras to achieve optimal system compatibility and integration.

ALPA

The partnership enables optimised integration of all ALPA technical cameras with both Hasselblad digital backs from H System and CFV as well as Hasselblad HC/HCD lenses in the existing and future products.

Sandqvist x Hasselblad: Design Meets Functionality

Sandqvist x Hasselblad Bags

Hasselblad has fostered a relationship with Swedish accessories brand, Sandqvist, creating functional, stylish camera bags to accent the Hasselblad range of offerings. This partnership utilises the strengths and expertise of each brand. Sharing a distinctly Nordic philosophy, Sandqvist is intrinsically inspired by the natural landscape of Sweden. Hasselblad is profoundly proud of its beginnings in Gothenburg and its Swedish heritage plays an integral role in everything the brand does.

The Sandqvist x Hasselblad design are tasteful, minimalist and supremely functional. The collection consists of three high quality bags, created by Hasselblad and Sandqvist, and will be launched at the photokina fair in September. The bags will be available from the beginning of October 2016 and will be sold through Sandqvist's existing distribution channels and through selected Hasselblad dealers.

Hasselblad CEO, Perry Oosting, commented on the 4116 collaborations:

"This is an extraordinarily special year for Hasselblad. We're celebrating 75 years at the forefront of photography, honouring our past while looking forward to the future. We're immensely proud of our extended product range and it's a pleasure to align with some of the finest brands in their respected fields to create a diverse range of products. Hasselblad values craftsmanship and quality, and whether it's mobile technology or accessories, this is what we looked for when creating the 4116 Collection."

More to Come

At the photokina fair in Cologne in September, Hasselblad will be celebrating the Hasselblad Masters winners as well as extending the 4116 Collection with a special edition camera and an innovative concept study.

About Hasselblad

Founded in 1941, Hasselblad is the leading manufacturer of medium format cameras and lenses. Handmade in Sweden, Hasselblad cameras are renowned for their iconic ergonomic design, uncompromising image quality, Swedish craftsmanship and high performance. For over half a century Hasselblad cameras have captured some of the world's most iconic images – including the first landing on the moon – and helped shape the way we look at the world through genuine photographic artistry. Trusted by NASA and used by the greatest photographers in the world, Hasselblad continues to create products with uncompromising image quality that inspire.

The Hasselblad H Camera System with its professional lens family and unique advancements is widely acknowledged as the most comprehensive digital camera system of its kind available today. Hasselblad was the first to launch the fully integrated medium format camera system incorporating the latest in CMOS sensor technology. In 2016 Hasselblad launched the H6D, a technological feat with an all new electronic platform, delivering superior craftsmanship and image quality. Later the same year, Hasselblad introduced the world's first compact mirrorless digital medium format camera – the X1D.

Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, where the cameras are handmade, Hasselblad is a global brand with offices in New York, London, Tokyo, Paris, Copenhagen and Hamburg with distributors throughout the world.

For more information, visit Hasselblad online: www.hasselblad.comFollow Hasselblad on Instagram: www.instagram.com/hasselblad_officialFollow Hasselblad on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HasselbladFollow Hasselblad on Twitter: www.twitter.com/HasselbladFollow Hasselblad on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/hasselbladFollow Hasselblad on YouTube: www.youtube.com/HasselbladAS

About ALPA Capaul & Weber Ltd.

ALPA is a leading Swiss designer and provider of high-end medium format photographic tools. ALPA cameras are manufactured by lovers of craftsmanship for a small group of connoisseurs. Cameras of this calibre can be compared to precious musical instruments.

Learn more about ALPA solutions at www.alpa.ch

About Sandqvist

Sandqvist was founded in Stockholm, Sweden in 2004 by Anton Sandqvist. Together, with his brother Daniel and their friend Sebastian, they are the soul behind the brand. The Nordic landscape with its forests, rivers and vast unpopulated areas as well as an urban city lifestyle have always been our main inspiration. Accordingly, the Sandqvist designs are uncomplicated, functional and beautiful, with clear Swedish heritage.

Learn more about Sandqvist at www.sandqvist.net

Source: Very Thin, 10x Optical Zoom 'Hasselblad True Zoom' Moto Mod™ Camera Module...