Photography News 115 - Newsletter

We’re just a few days into meteorological Spring and it’s genuinely exciting to witness more daylight hours and the new shoots of activity in the natural world. This spring also brings with it the first Photography & Video Show at the NEC in over 18 months and I’d imagine that thousands of you will be heading to Birmingham in less than a week to make the most of all the show has to offer. Unsurprisingly, a lot of this issue has been dedicated to the event itself with selected highlights below. But don’t worry if you can’t make it, there’s plenty for you to enjoy, too. Enjoy the issue!

ISSUE 115 7 May-1 Jul 2024 photographynews.co.uk

Pg22 Call for entries / Photographer of the Year 2024 contest

Pg32 Big test: OM-1 Mk II / OM System’s pro offering put through its paces

Pg39 Used and renewed / The only guide you need to hiring and buying used

TIPA top performers announced! See who won in the highly anticipated TIPA World Awards 2024, recognising the industry’s leading products

IT’S THAT TIME of year again! The Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) World Awards 2024 winners have been announced, covering 40 categories including cameras, lenses, monitors, software and more. These accolades are intended to provide a benchmark for quality in the industry and help you, the consumer, make informed choices. Many of the major brands can be seen among the winners, with the Canon EOS R100 named the best APS-C entry-level camera and the Lumix G9 II and Sony Alpha 9 III winning best professional MFT camera and best professional hybrid camera, respectively. Nikon cleaned up in the full-frame categories, winning best full-frame expert camera (Z f) and best full-frame professional camera (Z 8), while Fujifilm won best compact camera for the X100VI and best medium format camera for the GFX100 II. Continued on page 3

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“WE WERE PROUD TO BE PRESENT AT THE ASSEMBLY, AMONG JOURNALISTS FROM ALL AROUND THE WORLD”

Continued from page 1 In the lens categories, it was an even spread between Sigma, Sony, Tamron and Nikon, who received two awards each; Canon, Viltrox, Laowa and Voigtländer were recognised too. The winners were chosen by TIPA members who attended the General Assembly 2024, which was held in Rome, Italy from 21 to 24 March. Photography News is a long-standing member of TIPA and we were proud to be present at the assembly, among experienced journalists from a broad variety of photography publications and websites all around the world. Such diverse expert knowledge from amateur, professional and trade

EDITOR’S LETTER ROGER PAYNE

Let’s cut straight to the chase. This is the last issue in which you’ll see my grinning face on this page. I’ll still be skulking in the shadows as editorial director, but it’s time someone else had a go at editing the magazine and website. I won’t spoil the surprise, but make sure to pick up the next issue and welcome the new person into the hot seat! But what an issue to go out on. Not only do we have the usual blend of news, tests and guides, I’m also delighted to kick off the inaugural PN Photographer of the Year contest. We’re inviting entries across ten photography categories, so there is something for everyone and some great prizes up for grabs. All entries are submitted via our website, so get involved! You could even see your images on the pages of a future issue. Our cover story is also worthy of mention. Photography News is a member of TIPA, the Technical Image Press Association. As a body comprised of photographic magazines and websites from all around the globe, every year the TIPA editors get together to vote on the finest products from the previous 12 months. The results are hotly anticipated throughout the industry, and you can find out which products won – and why – Roger Payne

There were awards for best flash, editing software, photo lab and printer. The full scope covers both analogue and digital, and even includes smartphone cameras, which are now more capable than ever. Over the following pages, we take a closer look at some of this year's top picks and share comments from the panel of TIPA experts. tipa.com

publications ensures a balanced collective view – that’s what makes the TIPA World Awards one of the most respected in the industry. While equipment for image capture makes up a large part of the categories, these awards are not just about cameras and lenses. A collection of other photography- related classes aim to cover the entire photographic process.

in our coverage. Suffice to say, if you’re thinking of getting new kit in the next few months, the TIPA seal of approval is worth looking out for so you can buy with confidence. That just leaves me to wish you all the best with your photographic endeavours – both now and in the future. Seeing that spring seems to have decided to be more like winter this year, I am hoping we’ll soon get long, warm summer days to get out and about with our cameras. It has been a pleasure to edit the magazine over the last 18 months or so. Reading all your emails and getting to meet a number of you in person – either at last year’s Photo Video 24 or the recent show at the NEC – has undoubtedly been the highlight. Until next time.

@photonewsPN @photonewsPN

@photonewsPN

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? The world’s imaging press gathered among the iconic landmarks of Rome to agree upon the past year’s greatest gear. Turn the page to discover their final judgement in full

What’s inside 03 News Find lots of lenses to get excited about with releases from Nikon, Sigma, Sony and Leica, while Panasonic adds cloud connectivity and Sony adopts image provenance technology 04 TIPA World Awards See who came out on top in the TIPA World Awards and read what the judges had to say

15 Samsung word search Find the missing word and you could win a 256GB Samsung memory card 17 Prize-winning inspiration We showcase some remarkable images from the Concrete in Life 2023 competition and British Wildlife Photography Awards 2024 22 PN Photographer of the Year official launch The inaugural PN Photographer of the Year competition is now open for entries! Learn more and submit today 32 Big test: OM-1 Mark II OM System’s pro-orientated camera is put under the spotlight’s glare by Will Cheung

39 Used and renewed Our handbook for hiring gear and buying used shows you how to choose kit with confidence and save money doing it 42 First tests OM System’s 150-600mm telephoto zoom companion to the OM-1 II and Vanguard’s Veo City backpack get the treatment

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There were a total of 40 categories in the TIPA World Awards 2024, each one revealing a winner as deserving as the next. Browse the full list and learn more about a few PN favourites on the following pages. For more information about TIPA and the World Awards, visit the association’s website. tipa.com Take a closer look at some of our favourite winners from the TIPA World Awards 2024 – and see why the judges chose them as the leaders in their field WORDS BY PETE TOWNSHEND Forty of the best

BEST PROFESSIONAL MFT CAMERA Panasonic Lumix G9 II WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:

“The camera’s video and stills capture capabilities, which include 14fps for up to 170 consecutive stills in Raw format (mechanical shutter) and cinematic-quality DCI 4K and UHD 4K/60p with no time limit on recording takes, in addition to high- resolution slow-motion 4K/120p, really impressed the TIPA editors.”

BEST TELEPHOTO PRIME LENS Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:

“Steadiness at lower shutter speeds; versatility in all focusing modes; lightweight for long working days; and fast – these are attributes sought by working pros in a tele lens when covering sports, special events and wildlife. TIPA editors agreed that this GM class lens ticks all the boxes.”

BEST PREMIUM CAMERA Leica M11-P WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:

BEST APS-C ENTRY-LEVEL CAMERA Canon EOS R100 WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:

“P-series Leica cameras are aimed at pros and photojournalists. This rangefinder model is the first to incorporate Content Authenticity Initiative credentials. It’s also a photographer’s camera, one that prioritises manual operation in a classic rangefinder design. The M11-P also offers very modern pixel-based technology.”

“A perfect entry-level camera, one that can serve as a gateway to today’s connected camera environment and a whole world of interchangeable lenses, the EOS R100 is affordable, compact, lightweight and a decent travel camera.”

BEST COMPACT CAMERA Fujifilm X100VI

WHAT THE JUDGES SAID: “The original X100 was an instant hit and created a cult following which has only strengthened with every new-generation model. The VI is the most appealing yet, combining the series’ classic good looks with both the imaging performance and cropping flexibility of a 40-megapixel sensor.”

BEST PHOTO PAPER Hahnemühle Baryta Photo Papers WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:

“The Hahnemühle inkjet printing paper line-up continues to expand, and with each new entrant comes newfound creative options. These papers are in the Baryta family, renowned for their look, feel and richness of surface that matches high-quality silver halide prints.”

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BEST WIDE-ANGLE ZOOM LENS Tamron 17-50mm f/4 Di III VXD WHAT THE JUDGES SAID: “Photographers looking for a lens that excels in both video and still photography will find this full-frame Sony E-mount lens perfect for their needs. Its ultra wide to normal zoom range is versatile for travel, landscape and nature shots, as well as videography.”

BEST IMAGING SOFTWARE PROFESSIONAL DxO Photolab 7 Elite WHAT THE JUDGES SAID: “Working with an editing software that can bring out the full potential of Raw files is key to a full realisation of the image’s fidelity and photographer’s expression. Building on the DxO Photolab tradition, this latest version adds even more versatility.”

BEST PHOTO SERVICE Cewe Freeform Stickers from Cewe Photostations WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:

BEST FULL-FRAME EXPERT CAMERA Nikon Z f WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:

“The Cewe Freeform Sticker redefines the possibilities of personalisation and instant printing. With options for single or mixed images, users create bespoke stickers effortlessly. Available at Cewe Photostations, this innovation makes personalisation fun and accessible for all.”

“TIPA members praised the 24.5-megapixel Nikon Z f as an excellent example of convergence between classic design and modern technology. Combining a Nikon SLR retro-style look with still and video features that invite creative engagement, the Z f camera has proven appeal to photo enthusiasts young and old.”

THE WINNERS LIST IN FULL

› PROFESSIONAL VIDEO CAMERA Red V-Raptor 8K VV › INSTANT CAMERA INNOVATION Polaroid I-2 › MEDIUM FORMAT CAMERA Fujifilm GFX100 II › APS-C WIDE-ANGLE ZOOM LENS Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary › APS-C STANDARD LENS Viltrox AF 27mm f/1.2 Pro › ULTRA WIDE-ANGLE PRIME LENS Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF › STANDARD PRIME LENS Voigtländer Nokton 40mm f/1.2 Aspherical › TELEPHOTO PRIME LENS Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS

› SUPER-TELEPHOTO PRIME LENS Sigma 500mm f/5.6 DG DN OS Sports › PROFESSIONAL PORTRAIT LENS Nikkor Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena › WIDE-ANGLE ZOOM LENS Tamron 17-50mm f/4 Di III VXD › MACRO ZOOM LENS Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 Macro G OSS II › TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 › SUPER-TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS Nikkor Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR › HYBRID ZOOM LENS Canon RF24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z › PHOTO SMARTPHONE Xiaomi 14 Ultra › ANALOGUE PHOTO PRODUCT Harman Phoenix 200

› LED LIGHT Godox P600Bi Hard Knowled LED Light Panel › IMAGING SOFTWARE ENTHUSIAST Skylum Luminar Neo › IMAGING SOFTWARE PROFESSIONAL DxO Photolab 7 Elite › AI PORTRAIT EDITING SOFTWARE Retouch4me AI plugins › CONSUMER PHOTO PRINT APP Pixum App › PHOTO LAB Whitewall ultraHD sharpening for black & white photo prints › PHOTO BOOK Fomanu Layflat Fotobuch › PHOTO SERVICE Cewe Freeform Stickers from Cewe Photostations

› PROFESSIONAL MFT CAMERA Panasonic Lumix G9 II › APS-C ENTRY-LEVEL CAMERA Canon EOS R100 › APS-C EXPERT CAMERA Sony Alpha 6700 › FULL-FRAME EXPERT CAMERA Nikon Z f › FULL-FRAME PROFESSIONAL

› PROFESSIONAL PHOTO MONITOR BenQ Photovue SW272U 4K Photo Editing Monitor › PROFESSIONAL VIDEO MONITOR Dell Ultrasharp 40 Curved Monitor (U4025QW) › PROFESSIONAL PHOTO PRINTER Epson Surecolor P5300/P5360/P5370 › PROFESSIONAL PRINTING APP Hahnemühle App › PHOTO PAPER Hahnemühle Baryta Photo Papers › STORAGE MEDIA Lexar Professional CFexpress 4.0 Type B Card Diamond series › PROFESSIONAL PORTABLE FLASH Godox V1Pro

CAMERA Nikon Z 8

› PROFESSIONAL HYBRID CAMERA Sony Alpha 9 III › PREMIUM CAMERA Leica M11-P › COMPACT CAMERA Fujifilm X100VI

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Z series 28-400mm superzoom released Nikon has introduced a far-reaching superzoom which could mean you never need to change lenses again. The Nikkor Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR offers an enormous 14.2x zoom range, giving Z series users the chance to tackle any subject – from landscapes to sports. optical image stabiliser that provides a five-stop benefit. Those with Z series cameras boasting a Synchro VR capability can extend this to 5.5 and 1.2m at 400mm. Plus, weather sealing means you can shoot with confidence in inclement weather conditions. The zoom also features a customisable control ring. Despite its range and versatility, the 28- 400mm weighs a modest 725g, making it the lightest lens in the Z line-up extending to 400mm. Commenting on the launch, Zurab Kiknadze, product manager at Nikon Europe, said: “It’s easier to handle than a super- telephoto prime. It’s perfect for people who want to carry just one lens and be ready for any photo opportunity, whether near or far.” Available now, the Nikkor Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR costs £1399. nikon.co.uk New Sony wide-angle zoom As well as offering such a versatile range of focal lengths, the Z 28-400mm also features an stops, based on CIPA standards. Autofocus, meanwhile, is claimed to be fast and near- silent thanks to the use of a stepping motor. Close focusing distances are very usable – the lens can focus to 0.2m at the 28mm setting

Sony has grown its line-up of full-frame Alpha E-mount lenses with the FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G wide-angle zoom. The lens will pique the interest of photographers and videographers with its versatile wide angle, consistent aperture performance and portability. Despite its constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the 16-25mm zoom range, the lens cuts a compact form. When combined with a bearable weight of 409g, the FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G is sure to appeal to landscape, architecture and astrophotographers. Optically, the FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G boasts three ED (extra-low dispersion) elements and four aspherical lenses, including one ED aspherical lens, along with optimised spherical aberration control – so high quality should be expected. Additionally, the 11-blade circular aperture promises pleasing bokeh effects. AF efficiency is driven by two linear motors, which are designed to increase speed and precision while reducing noise. According to Sony, this means the lens supports smooth tracking at the 20fps continuous shooting speed and 240p video frame rate achievable with the A9 III. External features on the lens include a focus hold button, an adjustable aperture ring as well as a switch to toggle the aperture click. The lens is also constructed to be dust- and moisture- resistant, featuring a fluorine coating applied to the front element for added protection in repelling contaminants.

Sigma announces Canon RF mount lenses

As the RF mount is universal across sensor sizes, the lenses can also be mounted on full-frame cameras within the same system, although the effective field of view will be adjusted due to the crop factor. The rollout of these new lenses will commence in July 2024 with the 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary. This will be followed by five more lenses in autumn: the 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN, 16mm f/1.4 DC DN, 23mm f/1.4 DC DN, 30mm f/1.4 DC DN and 56mm f/1.4 DC DN. sigmauk.com

Six new lenses have been announced by Sigma for Canon RF Mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. The lenses will be compatible with cameras within the EOS R System, such as the EOS R7 and EOS R10. The news should please Canon RF users who stand to enjoy access to a broader range of lens options. Sigma says the lenses have been designed specifically for the Canon RF mount to ensure quick AF capabilities, continuous AF as well as in-camera image stabilisation. Each lens also includes a rubber seal to improve weather resistance and durability.

The FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G is set to be priced at around £1250 and will be available through Sony-authorised dealers. sony.co.uk

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Vanguard adds bags to Veo City range The range of Veo City bags from Vanguard has been expanded with new shoulder bags and backpacks. These will sit alongside the existing Technical Packs and Cross Body Bags. The latest additions are designed for DSLR and mirrorless camera systems, plus a selection of accessories. All Veo City bags are made from a backs maximise comfort and improve ventilation, while the straps reduce strain and slipping. Prices range from £179.99 for the smallest B37 model to £219.99 for the largest B46. Check out our First test on page 45 of this issue

f/1.2 is compact and light, tipping the scales at 745g and measuring 108.8mm in length. This is, in part, down to a floating focusing mechanism which reduces lens size and weight – it is 30% lighter than the company’s L-Mount 35mm lens with the same maximum aperture. Dust- and splash-resistant, the lens features a water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element and has a programmable AFL button. An aperture ring lock switch, aperture ring click switch and focus mode switch are also provided, along with a petal lens hood. Having launched in April, the lens is now available for £1299. sigmauk.com to find out more about the B46. The shoulder bags are available in two sizes – seven and ten litres. They’re designed to accommodate a DSLR or large mirrorless model with three to four lenses, a tripod and a 13in laptop. They also feature internal and external pockets for additional storage and include a space for a power bank to charge cameras and accessories on the go. The bags cost £149.99 and £169.99. Both backpacks and shoulder bags come in two colourways – grey and navy blue. vanguardworld.co.uk

durable, water-repellent, air-textured yarn coated in two layers of water- resistant polyurethane. Waterproof zips and a separate rain cover are also included for complete peace of mind, while high-density, shock- absorbent foam keeps kit protected. The backpacks come in three sizes, with 12-, 16- and 21-litre capacities available. The largest version will accommodate a pro-sized DSLR or mirrorless camera, up to six lenses, a tripod and a 16in laptop. Contoured

At this year’s NAB Show, Western Digital launched new Sandisk storage technologies offering enhanced speed and capacity, including a huge 4TB SD card. The range includes the next-gen Sandisk SD Express and microSD Express cards in 128GB and 256GB capacities, achieving transfer speeds up to 4.4 times faster than previous models. The company also showcased its professional 2TB Sandisk Extreme Pro SDXC UHS-I and microSDXC UHS-I memory cards, along with a 4TB Sandisk Extreme Pro SDUC UHS-I card, offering massive capacity in the traditional SD form factor. Not stopping there, Sandisk Professional has added further desktop hard drive solutions with 24TB enterprise-class 7200RPM Ultrastar drives, specifically made with the demands of 4K, 8K and VR content workflows in mind. More professional additions include the Ultrastar Transporter, which features up to 368TB of NVMe SSD performance and Ultrastar Data102 JBOD platform. The latter incorporates the company’s Arcticflow and Isovibe technologies, which it claims reduce heat and vibration by up to 62%. Western Digital’s introduction of these Sandisk and Ultrastar storage products is a nod to the increasing moves towards higher resolutions and file sizes. westerndigital.com Sandisk goes big

Sigma unveils 50mm f/1.2 Art lens Joining Sigma’s roster of Art lenses is an ultra-fast prime – the 50mm f/1.2 DG DN Art. This addition is video use, plus focus shift is also kept to a minimum. Despite its speed, the 50mm

poised to appeal to photographers who enjoy tight control over depth- of-field or often work in low light. It will be available in L-Mount and Sony E-mount. On top of offering a fast maximum aperture, the lens’ diaphragm consists of 13 rounded blades, so bokeh should be both circular and soft. Sharpness is maintained across the frame, with impressive contrast and colour. The optical construction boasts 17 elements in 12 groups, which includes four aspherical elements to help combat multiple types of aberration. The focusing group suppresses focus breathing, making the lens suited to both photo and

Sony adds support for C2PA standard

According to Sony, the update introduces an in-camera digital signature that validates the authenticity of images at the point of capture, embedding a digital birth certificate which remains throughout editing processes. Other new features include optimised user experience and the introduction of professional functionalities such as breathing compensation, AF assist, improved image stabilisation for certain lenses and greater compatibility with cloud services. The A1 (Ver. 2.00), A7S III (Ver. 3.00), A7 IV (Ver. 3.00) and A9 III (Ver. 2.00) firmware updates are available for download now from the Sony website. sony.com

Significant firmware updates have been rolled out by Sony for the A1, A7S III, A7 IV and A9 III cameras, introducing features to bolster both shooting functionality and the provenance of digital imagery. At the heart of the update is the Camera Authenticity Solution – a digital signature designed to address the growing issue of digital image manipulation. The update also adds support for the C2PA standard, which establishes a verifiable trail of content authenticity from capture to publication. The C2PA initiative, which Sony helps steer, focuses on creating an open technical standard to assure the integrity of digital media.

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Lumix connects to the cloud

SH Pre-burst shooting mode is another feature to be introduced. This mode means the camera begins capturing a burst of images as soon as the shutter button is pressed halfway, giving you an extra buffer in those fleeting moments. The Lumix S5 II Firmware V3.0 and S5 II X Firmware V2.0 is available now to download for free from the Lumix Global Customer Support website. panasonic.com

AF is also enhanced, including real- time recognition for animals, cars and motorcycles, aimed at improving subject tracking in different shooting conditions. The firmware also introduces an electronic image stabilisation upgrade, with a new High mode for more extreme movements. Plus, there is a perspective distortion correction feature which, according to Panasonic, is designed to correct distortion from wide-angle lenses.

Panasonic’s latest firmware update for the Lumix S5 II and S5 II X camera models introduces a range of additional shooting and sharing capabilities. A notable feature of this firmware update is the integration with Adobe’s Frame.io platform. This enables the Lumix S5 II and S5 II X cameras to automatically upload, back up, share and collaborate on images and videos via the cloud using a Wi-Fi or USB connection.

Sony World Photography Award winners announced

Entries open for Weather Photographer of the Year

This year introduces the Standard Chartered Climate Award, carrying a £1000 prize for the photo most effectively communicating the impacts of climate change. The competition is accepting submissions until 18 June 2024 and is free to enter for everyone. Entrants have the opportunity to win the grand prize of £5000 along with specific categories, such as the smartphone (£2500) and under-18 (£750) categories. For those interested in participating or learning more, details can be found below. rmets.org/weather- photographer-of-the-year

Now in its ninth year, the Standard Chartered Weather Photographer of the Year contest has officially launched. Spearheaded by the UK’s Royal Meteorological Society, the competition aims to capture the stunning – and often dramatic – dynamics of weather and climate through the lens. Open to photographers worldwide, the contest serves as a platform for highlighting the pressing environmental challenges of our time, including extreme weather events such as heatwaves, cyclones and severe flooding – while also celebrating

Student photographer of the year was won by Kayin Luys of Belgium for his series, Don’t Trust Pretty Girls , which portrays his partner’s family in a personal narrative. Youth photographer of the year went to Daniel Murray, a 15-year-old from the UK, for his image of a surfer on a Cornish beach. There were a number of professional categories covering a variety of themes including architecture, environment and portraiture, with winners from a broad spectrum of photographic practices. Winning images and many more were displayed at the Sony World Photography Awards 2024 exhibition at Somerset House, which ran from 19 April to 6 May. worldphoto.org

The World Photography Organisation revealed the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards winners at a ceremony on 18 April at Somerset House in London. French photographer Juliette Pavy was awarded the photographer of the year title, receiving a $25,000 cash prize along with Sony gear for her series, Spiralkampagnen: Forced Contraception and Unintended Sterilisation of Greenlandic Women . The series investigates the forced contraception imposed on Greenlandic women by Danish authorities in the sixties and seventies. The awards ceremony also recognised winners in various categories, including open photographer of the year, which was awarded to Liam Man for his photograph Moonrise Sprites over Storr (background image). The image captures a night-time blizzard at the Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

the breathtaking beauty and formidable power of nature.

Leica launches limited-edition 35mm

lens container, clip-on hood and second round lens hood with screw thread for filters are also included, and each one has an engraved special serial number. The original lens was noted for its soft bokeh at the maximum f/1.4 aperture, and it is claimed that this version has the same characteristics. Stop down to f/2.8, however, and images are very sharp and distortion-free. The lens is available in selected Leica stores, costing £8600. leica-camera.com

Leica has released a limited- edition version of the Summilux 35mm f/1.4 lens for its M series of rangefinder cameras. The original lens, which first appeared in 1961, was the fastest wide- angle lens of the time. Now, this version gets a new finish and other limited-edition benefits. Alongside a black anodised finish, the lens boasts the iconic silver stainless steel front ring, a black painted brass focus lock button, as well as adjusted engravings on the focus ring. A

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WhiteWall

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monochrome mastery with WhiteWall UltraHD Celebrating WhiteWall’s latest triumph at the 2024 TIPA World Awards

“We are proud to have won this year’s TIPA World Award and see it as a confirmation of our commitment to always offer the best to our customers,” introduces Thomas Alscheid, CEO at WhiteWall. “We see it as an incentive to continue setting new standards and improving our products to exceed our customers’ expectations further.” Since launching in 2007, WhiteWall has consistently set the standard for excellence in gallery-quality photo products. Serving a diverse clientele of more than 250,000, including over 20,000 photographers, artists, gallery owners and collectors, WhiteWall has become synonymous with quality and customer service. Its reputation is bolstered by a whopping six TIPA awards since 2013, demonstrating its global acclaim as the premier photo lab. The accolade from TIPA this year highlights WhiteWall’s introduction

IN A WORLD where the beauty of black & white photography holds a revered spot for both amateurs and professionals, one name stands out for transforming this art form into something truly spectacular. WhiteWall, a global leader in high-quality photo printing, has once again been recognised by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA), earning the coveted 2024 award for best photo lab. This recognition was for their pioneering ultraHD sharpening technology, tailored specifically for black & white prints. “We see it as an incentive to continue setting new standards and improving”

BEHIND THE PRINT A behind-the-scenes look at WhiteWall’s print production process, revealing the meticulous craftsmanship behind each bespoke print and lamination – ensuring superior quality and durability for every piece

These are all easily accessible online, with sample packs readily available to help make the perfect choice. Once you have created your personal masterpiece, secure delivery in art-grade packaging gives you the peace of mind it will arrive in perfect condition. From start to finish, each phase is meticulously managed to maintain the highest standards of quality. At WhiteWall, the goal is not just about producing excellent prints, but also elevating photography to an art form. As it continues to innovate and inspire, its services aim to both preserve and create lasting legacies. Visit the website today to discover how WhiteWall ultraHD sharpening can bring a whole new dimension to your photography. You’ll find inspiration, valuable insights from creative partners and all the tools required to begin your exploration into high-definition monochrome photography.

enhances every detail and texture, guaranteeing images are depicted with striking clarity and depth. The process not only preserves but also enriches tonal variations and detail, all while eliminating colour casts. Celebrated black & white photographer Phil Penman, who has experienced the benefits of the process, spoke of its power to enhance his storytelling: “This technology doesn’t just revisit photography’s origins; it expands them, enabling each image to narrate more impactful stories,” he remarks. WhiteWall’s commitment extends beyond innovation; it also champions greater creative freedom through extensive customisation. Photographers can opt for bespoke dimensions up to 240x122cm, with a wealth of finishing, framing and mounting options. Whether seeking a classic print with a white border for a gallery feel or a durable laminated piece, each product can be tailored to meet individual artistic visions and preferences. Plus, specialised mounting systems tailored to the size and weight of each print ensure safe and straightforward display.

of ultraHD sharpening for black & white prints. “Photography is in our DNA and this is reflected in our products,” explains Alscheid. “Many products, such as the new black & white ultraHD sharpening option, are unique on the market.” Utilising three variants of Ilford photo paper – glossy, matte and true baryta – this advanced technology

whitewall.com

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A Samsung memory card! WIN!

Kodak Professional Photo Chemicals are back

ELHUMENHAHU RRKYDERMUBP CANNVFHZVWL P X F O D U H F I D P UECSBJRXLGL L L A P B I D I T Q K KANEKFEARRT X C O S Z I U O O M T RDNUOLWMXTC U Z H N A M L I U I Q FBDAWMKCNNX SVHMOLGOE I O K H R O A N S I L K D Y X I F L A G D S O O LWAQNMNLCNG U N V A I R I R B I R MFPWCAQNEBA GNFTOHLLEDL Samsung’s updated Pro Plus cards allow you to shoot more, faster. Stunningly fast U3, Class 10-rated read and write speeds now up to 180/130Mbps let you take and transfer masses of photos. The cards are ready to take on life’s adventures with protection from water, extreme temperatures, X-rays, magnets, drops and wearout, coming with a ten-year limited warranty. Complete the word search below, comprising company names of some of this year’s TIPA award winners, and you’ll find one word in the list that’s not in the grid. Email us on puzzle@ photographynews.co.uk with that word in the subject box by 28 June 2024 and the card will be yours if your name is drawn at random from all the correct entries received. Only entries from UK residents will be accepted. Congratulations to Sharon Buchalter from Cheshire, who was our winner from issue 113. The missing word from issue 114 was ‘garden’. samsung.com/uk/memory-cards

Analogue enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that Kodak has shown additional commitment to film photography, with the European reintroduction of its Professional Photo Chemicals range. This includes the acclaimed Black and White Chemistry line, Colour Negative and E-6 Chemistry. The first phase of the reintroduction focuses on the Black and White Chemistry line, featuring well-regarded products from the days of analogue photography processing such as Xtol, T-Max and D-76. These chemicals are specially designed to cater for an enormous variety of black & white photographic styles and subjects. The Colour Negative and E-6 Chemistry products are due to follow later in the year, broadening the range of chemicals catering for colour and black & white film processing.

Having been officially appointed the European distributor of these products, Dupli promises to make them available to various photography stores and professionals throughout the region. dupli.co.uk

Benro’s Mammoth tripod series just got bigger

compatible with any of Benro’s photo or video heads. Independently locking, three-stop adjustable legs promise robust support at low shooting angles and a choice of rubber or spiked feet further enhance stability outdoors. The carbon-fibre construction allows the

Benro has introduced three new models to its heavy-duty Mammoth tripod series aimed at landscape and wildlife photographers – the TMTH43C, TMTH33C and TMTH34C. These tripods boast a quick-levelling 75mm platform and versatile 3/8in thread that’s

2.25kg TMTH43C to support up to 25kg, while the 1.88kg TMTH33C and TMTH34C can hold up to 18kg. Additional features include built-in 3/8in threads for mounting accessories like mics, monitors or lights. Find out more at the Benro website. uk.benroeu.com

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Competitions

Prize-winning inspiration

WORDS BY PETE TOWNSHEND Be motivated by this gallery of acclaimed photographs from a pair of popular competitions

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE a photography competition to get your creative juices flowing, so to give you some added motivation, we’ve devoted the following two pages to the best of man-made and natural beauty. Enjoy this selection of winners, which are sure to inspire. Once you’ve found your spark, why not take up the challenge?

British Wildlife Photography Awards 2024

Wildlife photography and the summertime go together beautifully. Not only is the countryside bustling with life, but the warmer weather makes those long waits for the perfect shot much more enjoyable. To get you in the mood, here are the recently announced winners of the British Wildlife Photography Awards 2024 (BWPA). These images were chosen from over 14,000 submissions from photographers of all skill levels. Ryan Stalker’s image of a drifting football acting as a transatlantic vessel for invasive goose barnacles deservedly took the £5000 top prize. In the youth categories, the RSPB Young British Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2024 award went to Max Wood for his moody image of a coot on a misty lake at sunrise. The winning images have been put together in a coffee table book, available now at the BWPA website. Feeling inspired? Entries for the 2025 contest close on 2 June 2024, giving you time to get out and capture that summer buzz of activity.

HAVE A GO › Open Now

› 2025 closing date 2 June 2024 › 2025 entry costs £15 one entry, £20 five entries, £30 ten entries, £40 20 entries, £50 30 entries, £60 50 entries › Website bwpawards.org

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Competitions

Concrete in Life 2023 Photography Competition

AP Hari Wibowo and Muhammad Nurudin, who was presented with the people’s vote prize for his image of the Bali Mandara Toll Road in Bali juxtaposed against the vibrant green of a mangrove plantation. Fancy your chances? Entries for the 2024 competition are open. PN

One of the greatest skills an artist can possess is recognising beauty in anything – but is concrete a stretch too far? Judging by the remarkable winning entries in Concrete in Life 2023, it’s quite the opposite. This competition attracted 21,000 submissions from around the world, depicting concrete in all its guises and glory – from skyscrapers and sports centres to skateparks. Saeed Rezvanian’s striking image of a boy flying a kite on the steps of the Teopanzolco Cultural Center in Mexico was selected as the overall winner, scoring a $10,000 cash prize. Other winners included Owen Davies, Andre Hidayat Arrasuli, Alexander Arregui Leszczynska,

HAVE A GO › Open Now › 2024 closing date 31 July 2024 › 2024 entry costs Free › Website gccassociation.org/ concreteinlife2023

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MPB

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE See the light this summer with MPB Need some motivation to get out and make the most of the long summer days? Trade in your old gear for an MPB-approved set-up

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MPB

“Whether it’s the hassle-free dynamic pricing or the first-class customer service, there’s simply no better choice” allowances can mean compromising on gear, leading to asking ‘what if’ – and that is a recipe for anxiety. A superzoom lens is the perfect way to avoid all this. By covering everything from wide angle right through to telephoto in a single package, these versatile optics roll a huge number of lenses into one. With this in mind, maybe it’s time to trade in a couple of those old primes you never use and enjoy ultimate versatility? Alternatively, opting for a fixed- lens camera can be a great option. By limiting yourself to only a single camera and lens combination, gear indecision is completely eliminated, while creative focus is amplified. Number three, get closer. With summer comes an abundance of insects; bees buzzing to butterflies fluttering and dragonflies darting. This presents the perfect time to capture the fascinating beauty of the macro world. Beyond insects, the subject of your lens could be a frog, a snail, a flower – even a humble blade of

AS WE APPROACH the longest day of the year, the next few months are arguably some of the best for taking photos. Not only is there the warmer weather and extra hours of light to enjoy today, but the crisp, clean air and vivid colours of autumn are just around the corner. With all this beauty to enjoy, there’s no better time to inject some new life into your kitbag with a gear trade-in. Below are a few ideas, all of which you can find at mpb.com, offering a quick and easy way to get quality used kit with complete peace of mind. Number one is to shed a few pounds. This time of year is for spending as much time outside as possible. Whether it’s extensive walks in the countryside looking for idyllic landscape scenes, hours stomping the streets in search of split-second perfection or long days shooting on-location, the lighter your gear, the better. Not only does it save your back, but it boosts agility when shooting, ensuring fast reactions when it matters most. Whether you’re going from DSLR to mirrorless, full-frame to APS-C or looking for a compact camera as an everyday carry, it’s always nice to take a load off. Number two is to explore more. It’s prime holiday season, but if you’re anything like us, travel can be a mixed bag of emotions. The thought of photographing exotic sights and cultures is endlessly exciting, so naturally you want as many lens options in your bag as possible. However, limited luggage

CLICKS TO CASH Buying from MPB is completely stress-free; each piece of used equipment is checked by in-house experts. Customers can shop with confidence, knowing they’re getting high-quality kit for their cash

simultaneously improving the image quality of your shots. By experimenting with filters, you can find new inspiration everywhere for a relatively small cost. So, what are you waiting for? If you’re looking for a fresh start, now’s the time! MPB stands as the largest global platform for buying, selling and trading photography gear. It recirculates over 500,000 cameras, lenses and accessories, serving over 625,000 image makers. Not only does this mean a huge selection of products, but also excellent service, which is built on unrivalled experience in the industry. Whether it’s the hassle-free dynamic pricing engine that provides the right price up front, the first-class customer service or the commitment to creating a sustainable circular economy, there’s simply no better choice for trading, upgrading and getting paid for your used gear. Don’t believe us? Just ask the 19,000 reviewers that have contributed to MPB’s ‘Excellent’ Trustpilot rating.

grass. When you get close enough, the most mundane objects can become remarkable. Investing in a macro lens unlocks this alien world. With some practice and patience, it can yield results you will treasure for a lifetime. Number four – go further. A sure sign that summer’s here is the sound of birdsong. The trees, hedgerows, riverbanks and coastlines come alive with songbirds, waterfowl and birds of prey, but getting close enough to photograph these notoriously timid animals can be a challenge. The answer? A telephoto lens. Longer lenses can transport you to the heart of the action without disturbing it, which is essential for bird photography – and indeed any wildlife photography. Telephoto lenses are also a great way to pick out interesting

compositions from broader landscapes, and can also be very capable portrait lenses, making them quite versatile. Number five is to use the light on your own terms. While longer days mean more time to create pictures, daylight can so metimes be unmanageable; take control by using a lens filter. There are various types to choose from, all offering different benefits. The beauty of it is they take up very little extra space in your bag. Spending long days on the beach ? Take an ND filter to capture some dreamy long exposures. Going on a long hike? Use a polarising filter to get the most vivid colours in your landscapes. Need maximum quality and extra protection? A UV filter shields your lens’ front element from dust, dirt and scratches while

mpb.com

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PNPOTY 2024 IN ASSOCIATION WITH It’s competition time! Entries are now open for the inaugural Photography News Photographer of the Year contest

It is, of course, the skill, knowledge and experience of talented research and development teams that push the boundaries of this technology. But make no mistake, it would not exist if it wasn’t for one thing: you, the photographer. This beautiful world of image making would be nothing without your passion for the craft, hunger for new tools and endless commitment to capturing that perfect shot. That’s why we want to celebrate you with

moment everything aligned to deliver that once-in-a-lifetime street scene. Whatever it is, if you have an image you’re proud of, and it fits into one of the ten categories listed on the following pages, we want to see it! Every entry will get an exclusive discount code for Affinity software just for taking part. There’s a host of prizes up for grabs, including an 11in iPad Pro 256GB, Affinity Universal Licence, MPB vouchers worth £500 and a mystery prize from Godox!

the Photography News Photographer of the Year (PNPOTY) competition. Whether you’re a keen amateur, weekend warrior, seasoned club member or professional shooter, if you’re passionate about making images, this is your chance to get the recognition you deserve. We’re talking about the beautiful sunset that finally delivered the goods at your favourite spot after weeks of patience, the unlikely standout image from that portrait shoot or the

WORDS BY PETE TOWNSHEND

HOW TO ENTER › Open Now › Closing date 15 August 2024 › Entry cost Free › How to submit Visit photographynews.co.uk

THE MODERN WORLD of consumer photography is a wonder. The range of cameras, lenses, accessories and services out there is huge and the capabilities are remarkable. In fact, equipment is so advanced it could be argued that ‘bad’ cameras don’t exist any more, only cameras that aren’t as good as others.

Entries are free and open until 15 August 2024. See our website for more!