The 3rd International Filter Photo Contest 2012-2013 sponsored by Kenko Tokina Co.Ltd is open to all photos that has been taken with the aid of a filter (any brand) with the aim of expanding creative possibilities.
Applications are open to image data of both types, both in color or black and white, as long as the photos are taken using a filter. Filters such as protectors, whose filter effects cannot be seen on works, are not permitted. Photos treated or processed using computer software are not eligible
The contest is open from 1st October, 2012 until 30th November, 2013. There are prizes set every 3 months in stages during the contest for encouragement.
1st Stage: 1st October – 31st December, 2012
2nd Stage: 1st January – 31st March, 2013
3rd Stage: 1st April – June, 2013
4th Stage: July – November, 2013
To enter and know more of the Contest prerequisites and procedure click here
Thanks Ahmed Abul Burghul
The latest, smallest and the lightest Nikon FX-format D600 was launched in Kuwait today morning at the JW Marriott Hotel, Kuwait City. The function was held by Ashraf & Co. and Nikon. This was the 1st major launch of any camera here earlier, its quite interesting since only couple of weeks back the D600 was initially announced, followed by a grand launch in Dubai on the same day and now finally in Kuwait. It’s quite interesting to note that Nikon is considering the Middle East market seriously. The D600 was unveiled by Nikon ME and Ashraf Imaging Group officials.
The D600 is a hybrid with a 24.3 effective megapixel and high-density 39-point AF system employed with a Multi-CAM 4800 auto focus sensor module, with a close feel in terms of controls, ergonomics and weight to the Nikon D7000. In comparison to the D800 it uses the same EXPEED 3 processor, has the second best sensor in the world ranking just behind to it’s elder brother the Nikon D800, but overall the D800 falls in a different segment and is more superior.
The D600 will be sold separately (body only), as well as along with AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR Kit lens which is quite unique, since unlike the DX-format the Nikon FX-format camera’s were never sold with a Kit lens. The estimated price of Nikon D600 (Body only) in Kuwait shall be around KD 775 KD 700.
You can read my earlier post on Nikon D600 [here] and [here]
Update: More images of the event added. The Nikon D600 is not yet available, but you can pre-order them at AAB which is sold for KD. 699.950 (Body only) and KD. 849 with Kit lens (24-85mm VR lens), also included are the free 32 GB Class 10 SD card & KD. 20 Printing Coupon.
ShutterXpose team is pleased to announce the winners of their 1st Photography Contest under the theme “Expression of Love“.
The winners are:
- Shafimon Choolookaran (1st Prize)
- Joy Roshan (2nd Prize)
- Nabeel Sab (3rd Prize)
Congratulation’s !!!
Brief Summary of the Contest
The contest was open to all residents of Kuwait. The contestant had to upload their best image based on the theme of the contest and invite their friends and folks to vote for their image. The Photo contest had a considerable good response. We received a total of 37 entries and only 25 entries were qualified and moderated based on the theme, the contest was held for a 1 month period (19th August – 19th September, 2012). The contest received a total of 3000+ votes from more than 10 countries including Kuwait. As per the rules Top 5 entries with maximum votes were selected to qualify for the Judges technical evaluation round, the last 48 hrs of the contest was quite interesting with votes swinging in favour of few participants, finally there were Ties in 3 spots which ultimately gave 8 entrants to enter the evaluation round.
The Jury (3 judge panel) members had a daunting task ahead, each jury member had to evaluate the image based on the following technical criteria :
- Does the Image suit the Theme of the contest
- Composition and
- Overall impact (Lighting, Sharpness and creativity)
The total point system was on a scale of 10, at the end of the evaluation round the total aggregate point from all the judges against each image were calculated and the final 3 winners were selected.
The 3 panel Jury members are Professional photographer who have excelled in the field of photography with couple of awards under their name. A brief summary of their portfolio would be added in my coming post soon.
Congratulation to all the participants. Taking part in such photography contest is just a stepping stone to your long cherished dream to be recognised as a photographer.
We at ShutterXpose extend our warm wishes to all the participants, Indians in Kuwait (IIK), Blogger Mathai, The Grapevine Kuwait as well the readers here for helping us to make this contest a great success. ShutterXpose would organise many such contests in the future.
Photo Slideshow of all contest entrants
[slideshow gallery_id=”1″]
The speculations are over and the rumours are put to rest, Nikon announced 3 consumer products today – Nikon D600, Nikon 18.5mm f/1.8 and the Communication Unit UT-1, which supports more efficient image transfer over Ethernet and wireless networks for digital-SLR cameras.
Nikon D600 is a 24.3 mega pixel CMOS full frame (FX) sensor camera with a 100% viewfinder coverage and can capture Full HD. It has the same EXPEED 3 image-processing engine built into high-end Nikon D-SLRs (D4, D800, D800E) for superior definition and image quality. The Nikon D600 would be available for US $2100 for body only and US $2700 with the Kit (24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR) Lens. Both Amazon and B&H has listed the Nikon D600 for pre-order on their online store, the product would start shipping from 18th september, 2012 onwards.
Nikkor 18.5mm f/1.8 Lens for CX Format is designed to give the Nikon 1 series digital camera a normal angle-of-view, which mimics the natural perspective of the human eye. The ultra-fast maximum aperture of f/1.8 makes this lens a great choice for low-light photography, and when shot wide open, is capable of exceptionally shallow depth of field. The lens is available to pre-order for US $187
Nikon Communication Unit UT-1 supports more efficient image transfer over Ethernet and wireless networks and also to control the camera remotely from a computer when connected to digital-SLR cameras. The UT-1 is compatible with the Nikon D4, D800, and D800E cameras for professional and advanced amateur photographers, as well as the D7000 for photo hobbyists. The lens is available for pre-order, though the price is not listed.
Check the Nikon D600 Product Tour
According to rumors, Nikon would be launching the D600 today at Thailand followed by a another press conference launch in Dubai. If rumors are true then the Nikon D600 would be a 24.3 mega pixel CMOS full frame (FX) sensor camera with a 100% viewfinder coverage and can capture Full HD. I wouldn’t mention abouts the specs and other details, you can check [here]. The expected price is around US $2000.
It would be more interesting to see if both these event launches would be the same in 2 places or are we looking for a bigger surprise. It could well be that Nikon D600 would be launched in Thailand since D600 as speculated would be a “Made in Thailand” body and the Dubai launch will perhaps reveal a new upgrade for Nikon D7000 (DX) camera.
Whatever the surprise is in store Nikon would have to manage well to deal with the demand from consumers, they are still having a tough time dealing with the Nikon D800 supply.
Well its just a matter of few hours more, For sure with the type of specs rumored the Nikon D600 will sell like hot cakes.
Update: The speculation is over and the rumours are put to rest, Nikon releases 3 consumer products – Nikon D600, Nikon 18.5mm f/1.8 and the Communication Unit UT-1, which supports more efficient image transfer over Ethernet and wireless networks for digital-SLR cameras
Wishing all readers and friends “Happy World Photography Day”
It’s been a year and little more since I’ve started this blog, the idea was to network, share and communicate photography news, tips and takes on different photography subject. The journey has been quite exciting so far, ShutterXpose formed the Weekenders group for photo enthusiast to meet over alternate weekends and capture different themes on photography.
ShutterXpose team was officially engaged with the Kuwait Earth-Hour event which was definitely a new experience, the team express it’s gratitude to Kuwait Earth-Hour organisers for their warm felicitation. The team also actively participated in the Kuwait International Motocross Challenge 2012 and the Kuwait Rally Championship held in Kuwait. The team visit to Mutla Ridges energised the soul within us, the group had couple of visit capturing Bird and Sunrise Photography among the rest. Hope the journey continues….
ShutterXpose is inviting entries to their 1st Photography Competition under the theme “Expression of Love“.
Please read the General Rules and Photo Contest Guidelines to Participate and Win Exciting prizes.
I sincerely express my gratitude to all the readers of ShutterXpose blog for the continuous support, my special thanks to Prashanth Shetty, Rakshak Shetty, Yogeesh Jayaramu and Joyston D’souza for being part of this journey and for their support.
Update: Prizes for the contest
- 1st winner shall receive a Nikon Coolpix P7000 Digital Camera
- 2nd winner shall receive a Velbon Tripod & Case Logic DSLR Professional Backpack Bag.
- 3rd winner shall receive a Hama DSLR Camera Bag & Lexar Professional 8 GB SDHC memory card.
Nikon Corporation this month announced they will add the super-telephoto 800-mm, fixed local length lens to its lineup of NIKKOR lenses. This lens will offer a fixed focal length of 800 mm, a maximum aperture of f/5.6, and will be fully compatible with Nikon FX-format cameras. There is no price mentioned yet, nor any specification released. From the photo released by Nikon, the lens shows different switch for “Off”, “Normal”, “Active” VR modes, “Auto/ Manual (A/M)” focus modes. It would definetly boost of exclusive Nikon Nano Crystal Coat and a Meniscus protective glass element combine to reduce ghosting and flare for even greater image clarity. The current longest telephoto lens the “AF-S Nikkor 600mm f/4 ED VR” weighs approx. 5060 gms with a whooping price tag of $9,799.
I would love to have this lens in my gear bag, but then who wouldn’t. Apart from being serious and earning enough to have this baby I would also have to strengthen my arms.
Nikon Press release:
This lens has been developed in order to strengthen the NIKKOR lineup of super-telephoto lenses. It will boast the longest focal length of any NIKKOR autofocus lens, and will be best suited to capture of a wide variety of decisive outdoor scenes, from sporting events to wildlife. In addition to its superior optical performance, the lens will offer dust and water resistance.
In 2012, Nikon released three new FX-format digital-SLR cameras—the D4, the new flagship digital SLR, and the D800 and D800E, which offer incredible resolution and image quality. In addition to reinforcing its lineup of FX-format digital-SLR cameras, Nikon has also been working to expand the lineup of NIKKOR lenses. Nikon has been providing service and support to professional photographers for roughly fifty years through the activities of its Nikon Professional Services (NPS).
This lens is scheduled to be on display at the Nikon service depot that will be set up for professional photographers working at the Open Championship event. Nikon has been also an official sponsor of The Open Championship since 1993. The Open Championship is the oldest of the world’s four major tournaments in professional golf . Furthermore, this lens is scheduled to be on display at Photokina 2012, one of the world’s largest photo and imaging exhibitions, to be held in Cologne, Germany from September 18–23, 2012.
Release date and suggested retail price for this product have not yet been determined.
Nikon Inc. today announced the AF-S NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR DX lens. This lens is a versatile and compact 16.7X all-in-one super zoom DX-format lens. The lens is an Ultra high-power approx. 16.7x zoom lens covering 18-300mm focal range. Just as the Nikon 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G VR is equipped with Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) II image stabilization system which provides the equivalent of a shutter speed approximately four stops faster. The built-in Vibration Reduction will help photographers create blur-free images and video while shooting handheld and in challenging lighting conditions. Two focus modes, manual-priority autofocus (M/A) and manual focus (M), are easily selected in both lenses as well. When in manual-priority autofocus (M/A) mode, users will be able to instantly switch from autofocus to manual focus operation by simply rotating the focus ring, even during AF servo operation. Additionally, these lenses feature an internal focusing system, providing fast focus without changing the length of the lens while retaining working distance through the focus range. Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology designed to deliver fast, accurate and quiet AF performance. The lens also boast Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating (SIC) which provides superb color reproduction, color consistency and reduced flaring.
The AF-S NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR also has a dedicated zoom lock switch which secures the lens barrel at its minimum length and will prevent the lens from sliding when not in use and during transportation. This lens is ideal for capturing close-ups with great detail, as it offers a 1.48 ft. minimum focusing distance at 300mm, as well as a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:3.2x.
Price and Availability:
The AF-S NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens will be available at the end of June 2012 and is available on pre-order for $999.95
Nikon Inc. today announced the AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR full-frame lens. This lens replaces the older 24-85mm f/3.5-5.6 G AF-S lens, which went out of production in 2006. The lens is a 3.5x standard zoom lens covering frequently used focal-length range from 24 to 85 mm. It’s also equiped with Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) II image stabilization system which provides the equivalent of a shutter speed approximately four stops faster. The lens construction consists of 16 optical elements in 11 groups with one Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass element, three aspherical lens elements and a seven rounded blade diaphragm. It is a good quality affordable full-frame lens which is suitable for various shooting scenarios, from stunning landscapes to intimate portraits. This lens is lightweight and portable for regular use.
Price and Availability:
The AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR lens will be available at the end of June 2012 and is available on pre-order for $599.95
Nikon Inc. is asking your cooperation in connection with a voluntary recall of certain lot numbers of its Nikon Model EN-EL15 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack can experience a short circuit causing it to overheat and possibly causing the outside casing to become deformed, posing a potential hazard to consumers. There have only been seven (7) confirmed reports of incidents of the problem worldwide, and while no injuries have taken place, Nikon Inc. has initiated this recall of the affected lot numbers as a reflection of its commitment to safety and product quality. We are asking that owners of the affected battery pack contact Nikon Inc. to initiate a free product exchange.
The Nikon EN-EL15 battery pack is provided as a supplied accessory with the purchase of Nikon’s digital SLR D800, D800E, D7000 cameras and the Nikon 1 V1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens. It is also sold separately at retail under Nikon’s model number 27011. The EN-EL15 battery pack involved in this recall was first distributed by Nikon in March 2012 and is still being sold at retail.
No other Nikon battery packs are involved in this recall. Nikon’s digital SLR D800, D800E, D7000 cameras and Nikon 1 V1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens as well as any other Nikon cameras are also not subject to this recall.
Check here to find if your battery is affected by this recall.
