Issue 97 of Photography News see the launch of Photo 24, the summer’s biggest photo event Will
ISSUE 97 15 Mar-11 April 2022 photographynews.co.uk
Pg26 Big test: Nikon Z 9 / The top-end shooting machine tried & tested
Pg9 Apply for Photo 24 / Get in early for the
Pg12 Prize word search / Win a Samsung 256GBmicroSD memory card
The Micro Four Thirds camera market has been quiet of late, but all that has changed with launches from OM Digital Solutions and Panasonic image-making event of 2022 Backwith a bang
Sigma adds X Series optics Interchangeable trio of
primes offer Fujifilm users more options
It has been a while coming, but Sigma now has interchangeable lenses for Fujifilm X Series cameras. Starting with three under its Contemporary series, there’s a promise of more to come. The 16mm f/1.4 DC DN, the 30mm f/1.4 DC DN and 56mm f/1.4 DC DN are priced at £359, £289 and £379, respectively. These are already available for Sony E, Canon EF-M, Micro Four Thirds and L-Mount cameras. The lenses boast control algorithms, including AF drive and communication speed optimisation, which have been developed specifically for the Fujifilm X Series. For example, they will support high-speed AF, as well as AF-C, and in-camera aberration correction (for compatible cameras only). sigma-imaging-uk.com
a combination of world-firsts, innovation and impressive tech. Of course, PN is here to give you a comprehensive breakdown of what they have to offer. See page 3 for more on the Lumix GH6; page 4 for the OM-1.
WITH OM DIGITAL Solutions finding its feet and Panasonic focusing on the full-frame and video market, the Micro Four Thirds format needed a boost. It got just that, with the launch of two feature-rich cameras. The OM System OM-1 and Panasonic Lumix GH6 deliver
omsystem.com/en/ panasonic.com/uk
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Power fromPanasonic Offering a host of pro-level still and video features, the Lumix GH6 flagship is ready to break the boundaries of mirrorless
EDITOR’S LETTER WILLCHEUNG
Maybe it’s because I don’t get out much, but I’ve never heard the words computational and photography used together. Until now. Apparently, computational photography is a thing – well it is if you write press releases for OM Digital Solutions. It launched its first product, the OM System OM-1, last month. A camera that – as the press release states – ‘incorporates computational photography technology’. In essence, it means (I think!) that the camera lets you achieve effects without special gear or skills, with tools like Live Composite, Live ND and High-Res Shot modes. The OM-1 certainly looks very special, and if you were quick off the mark, you’re probably enjoying yours as you read this. I’d love to hear how you are getting on with your new camera, so please feel free to email me. The past month has been all about Micro Four Thirds, and in addition to the OM-1, Panasonic introduced the video-oriented Lumix GH6. With so much noise about full- frame over the past few months, it was a pleasure to be reminded that we still live in a multi-format era. Fujifilm is celebrating the tenth anniversary of its APS-C format X Series this year.
THE GH SERIES is a long-term favourite of content creators, and the top-end Lumix GH6 hybrid promises to continue this heritage. Its new 25.2-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor gives better resolution and higher bit rates than previously, with 5.7K 4:2:0 10-bit 60p/50p and 5.8K 4:2:0 10-bit 30p/25p/24p anamorphic 4:3 modes recorded, utilising the full area of the sensor. With 5.7K 30p video, internal recording is available in ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes 422 using a CFexpress Type B card. The GH6 boasts unrivalled image stabilisation, thanks to a super high- precision, five-axis gyro sensor used with a new algorithm to achieve a powerful 7.5EV of body IS and dual IS2. This helps produce smooth, stable camera footage. It also allows users to shoot 100-megapixel, high- resolution stills without a tripod. The GH6 offers an impressive dynamic range of 12EV+ for pre- installed V-Log recording, which expands to 13EV stops when using its Dynamic Range Boost mode. This allows clear, smooth HDR video with rich gradation – achieved by combining a highly saturated image with a low noise image for each pixel of the shot.
As I write this in early March, photography offers a haven away from the shocking news around us. I’ve had a trip to London with my camera, and loved it. The sun shone and it was pleasantly, but not oppressively busy, with plenty of tourists around. It was almost normal. So normal that a security person on the South Bank queried what I was up to with my camera. I walked away. I had another London trip, but this was for work, to check out a venue for our Photo 24 event on 25 and 26 June. It has been missing from my diary for three years, so I’m pleased it’s happening in 2022. This year, we’re also offering every PN reader the chance to experience Photo 24 through social media. See pages 9 and 10 for more details, but we’ll have much more in the mag, on our website and podcast. Until next month, stay well.
For the first time in the Lumix G Series Micro Four Thirds camera line-up, the Lumix GH6 contains a V-Log/V-Gamut, delivering a high dynamic range with broad colours. All colour information is retained, allowing for more choices in the post-production process.
Audio recording has been improved, with the ability to achieve 48kHz or 96kHz 24-bit recording using an XLR microphone. This gives greater flexibility when shooting outdoors or in environments where multiple audio sources are present. Other key features include intuitive operability, with a three- inch tilt and free-angle touch-control monitor, giving the option to rotate freely – even when connected to the camera with an HDMI cable. The GH6 body retails at £1999.99, and £2199.99 with a 12-60mm lens. panasonic.co.uk
“The GH6 offers an impressive dynamic range of 12EV+ for pre-installed V-Log recording”
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What’s inside 03 News Olympus and Panasonic launch Micro Four Thirds cameras, while Canon adds two super-long (and super-priced!) RF lenses 09 Photo 24 Dates for your diary: 25 and 26 June. Join the PN team on an unmissable experience. Registration for the ballot is now open 12 Vanguard contest and Samsung word search This month, take home a new Vanguard VEO Active backpack of your choice – we have two as prizes. Plus, tackle the Samsung word search correctly and you’re in with a chance of winning its very latest 256GB PRO Plus microSD card
15 Club news The pandemic has put paid to camera club annual exhibitions over the past two years, so it is a great pleasure to see their return 16 Buyers’ guide: Our advice for hiring and buying used kit Making the most of your cash is the central theme of this buyers’ guide. Whether you want to try before you buy, or save money going for pre-loved, here’s our pick of retailers and services 19 Buyers’ guide: Lenses and filters What you put on your camera body has a fundamental impact on the images you produce. This means that buying the right kit for the job is important
23 Used corner: Olympus OM-1 The OM System OM-1 is in the shops now – making it the perfect time to take a look back at a camera that revolutionised SLR photography 50 years ago 26 Big test: Nikon Z 9 The Z 9 is Nikon’s answer to its Canon and Sony rivals – and it boasts an awesomely well-endowed features list 32 First tests
l Rode VideoMic Go II mic l Kase Armour Filter System l Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S l Vanguard VEO Active 42M
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News OM-wards and upwards The eagerly awaited first camera fromOM System is here. What better way to celebrate, than with the flagship OM-1?
The high-capacity BLX-1 is good enough for 520 shots, and the camera can be used during charging with a suitable power bank. The OM-1 is available to order now, with body price of £1999.99. The body with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro II lens is £2499.99. The HLD-10 power battery holder is £319.99, with extra BLX-1 li-ion rechargeable batteries at £79.99 each omsystem.com
Video shooters are well catered for. Smooth, high-definition results are possible with 4K/60p recording, and Full HD is attainable up to 240fps. The camera supports H.264 (8-bit), H.265 (10-bit) and OM-Log which allows better capture of highlight/shadow details. With an external recorder, Raw output at 12- bit 4:4:4 is possible. Other features include dual SD UHS-II card slots, SSWF dust reduction system, five on-camera rating categories, Starry Sky AF, independent AE-L and AF-ON buttons, electronic shutter flash sync at 1/100sec and a new battery.
The Olympus imaging division was acquired by OM Digital Solutions last year. It promptly announced that the Olympus brand was no more, and future products would be sold under the OM System name. However, its first camera does bear, for the final time, the Olympus moniker – in homage to the OM-1 film camera introduced exactly 50 years ago, which changed SLR photography forever. The OM System OM-1 is a top-end Micro Four Thirds format camera, and its tiny body is packed with cutting-edge imaging technology. At its heart is a 20.4-megapixel stacked BSI Live MOS sensor, working with the latest TruePic X image processor. It’s three times faster than that found in any previous Olympus camera. With the benefit of a back-side illuminated sensor and improved processing technology, noise performance is said to be 2EV better than previous models, with 1EV gain in dynamic range. Native top ISO is 25,600, expandable to 102,400. The five-axis in-body sync image stabiliser can give up to 8EV of
phase-detection data, including colour and contrast information, to give improved subject recognition, detection and tracking. This is up to three times faster – and twice as accurate – compared with existing Olympus models. Face/eye priority autofocus has seen some significant benefits, too. Action photographers will also appreciate the OM-1, with sequential shooting and Pro Capture giving up to 50fps full-resolution shooting with AE/AF tracking. With fixed AE/ AF, this increases to 120fps. These shooting speeds are achieved without any image blackout, which you can enjoy through the new EVF, with its 5.76 million dot resolution and 120fps refresh rate. The OM-1 is compact and lightweight, but also super-rugged, with the body meeting the IP53 dust and splash proof standard. It’s the world’s only IP53 camera system, and two new lenses have been introduced that meet the same standard (see below for details). Camera and lenses will continue working perfectly all the way down to -10°C.
SLICK LOOKS The OM System OM-1 boasts a tidy top-plate
benefit, depending on the lens used, and a new handheld assist feature makes it possible to shoot at slow shutter speeds for effects that would usually need a tripod. Handheld High Res Shot mode takes about five seconds to merge images, giving 50-megapixel results. And, if you have a support handy, Tripod High Res Shot mode turns in 80-megapixel images. Focus stacking, HDR shooting and Live ND can all be utilised with a handheld camera. The camera’s AF system employs a new, world-first Cross Quad Pixel AF, with 1053 phase detection points across the whole image frame. AI autofocus uses four-direction,
AGOOD VIEW The OM-1 has a 5.76m dot EVF for a really detailed perspective
Leading the way
Offering a useful telezoom range in a portable package is the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4 Pro, with a constant f/4 maximum aperture throughout its zoom range – 80-300mm equivalent in the 35mm format. It measures just 12.4cm, weighing in at 382g. Minimum focus is 70cm and focus stacking supported. The M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro II costs £899.99 and the 40-150mm f/4 Pro £799.99, with both available to order now.
The OM System OM-1 meets the IP53 dust and splash proof standard; to make the most of that, two lenses were introduced at the same standard, promising leading optical performance. The M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro II is f/2.8 throughout its range, and has 14 elements in nine groups, including one DSA lens to keep size down but maintain performance. An MSC mechanism supports high-speed, silent AF, and focusing is possible to 20cm.
Photography News is published 11 times a year by Bright Publishing Ltd, Bright House, 82 High Street, Sawston, Cambridge CB22 3HJ. No part of this magazine can be used without prior written permission of Bright Publishing Ltd. Photography News is a registered trademark of Bright Publishing Ltd. The advertisements published in Photography News that have been written, designed or produced by employees of Bright Publishing Ltd remain the copyright of Bright Publishing Ltd and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. While Bright Publishing makes every effort to ensure accuracy, it can’t be guaranteed. Street pricing at the time of writing is quoted for products.
Editorial team Editorial director Roger Payne Editor Will Cheung FRPS 01223 499469 willcheung@bright-publishing.com Chief sub editor Alex Bell Sub editors Matthew Winney, Harriet Williams Contributing editor Kingsley Singleton Contributingwriter Alex Fice
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Design team Design director Andy Jennings Design & ad production Hedzlynn Kamaruzzaman and Man-Wai Wong Distribution Distribution and subscriptionmanager Phil Gray philipgray@bright-publishing.com Publishing team Managing directors Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck As well as your local camera club, you can pick up Photography News in-store from: Cameraworld, Castle Cameras, Jessops, London Camera Exchange, Park Cameras, Wex Photo Video, Wilkinson Cameras
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News Smart idea Kenro’s Smart Lites are a high-performance, feature-packed LED light series, sure to enhance any project
Skylum’s latest software introduces unique AI tech to achieve incredible results The power of Neo
Neo is also a Raw processor and cataloguing software, and has the creative potential of Luminar AI – with features such as sunrays, sky replacement and layers. For Mac and Windows, Neo is on offer with a one-year subscription (£49 for one user, £59 for two) or lifetime licence (£59 for one, £79 for two). The subscription model has the benefit of any future add-ons. The outright purchase model will have performance and stability updates, and Portrait Background Removal and Mask coming this spring. skylum.com/luminar-neo
Luminar Neo is a powerful software driven by artificial intelligence, with features to quickly improve images – creatively and technically. Relight AI lets you adjust lighting by automatically isolating areas that need correction, for better control and creative effects. Combine Relight AI with other Neo scene-aware tools and any image can be adjusted. If your pictures are afflicted with sensor dust spots, or ruined by power cables, Neo has the AI skills to help you out. Results are accurate and the process is fast, potentially saving hours of cloning.
Kenro announced an aluminium mini ball head with max capacity of 10kg at £14.99, and a smartphone adapter, which has two coldshoes for accessories like light panels and microphones. It retails at £5.99. kenro.co.uk
integrated battery with an output of 9w, it lasts 1.9 hours when operating at 100% brightness, and can function as a power bank for USB-powered devices. It features CRI (Ra) 96 and CCT colour temperature range of 3200-5600K.
Kenro’s all-new Smart Lites offer high-quality, accurate light, multiple mounting and power options, plus precision control at your fingertips, with the corresponding smartphone app for certain models. The range has been designed with photographers and filmmakers in mind, and is highly portable, making it easy to shoot on location or in the studio. The RGB Compact LED Video Light functions as a key or fill light, allowing you to create strategic highlights. Its 4040mAh battery has an output of 10w, lasting around 1.6 hours on a full charge. The colour temperature range is 3200- 7500K, it provides up to 1050 lux of illumination, and has nine built-in special lighting effects. This RGB video LED retails at £84.99. The smaller Bi-Colour Compact LED Video Light is entry-level, priced at £49.99. Powered by a 4040mAh
Canon’s nice – very expensive – pair
them with the RF 1.4x or RF 2x extenders, with AF shooting and IS. Canon has redesigned its optical system to achieve a smaller and lighter design than many traditional super telephoto lenses. The RF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM weighs in at just 3.1kg, making it Canon’s lightest and shortest 800mm L-series yet. The RF 1200mm f/8L IS USM weighs just 3.34kg – 13kg less than its predecessor. If you fancy owning one of these lenses, you had better start saving now. The RF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM is £19,099, with the RF 1200mm f/8L IS USM £22,449. canon.co.uk
for long-distance shooting, without compromising on portability. The already impressive focal lengths of each lens can be doubled by using
The RF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM and the RF 1200mm f/8L IS USM redefine the standards for super telephoto lenses, boasting extreme magnification
Gracy for Fujifilm Gracy is a dedicated L-bracket for the Fujifilm GFX 50S II and 100S. It is precision-engineered from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, designed to fit the two GFX cameras perfectly, ensuring full access to the side ports, battery door and memory
card slots. Available now, via 3 Legged Thing’s website at £99.99. 3leggedthing.com
Benro gains more support
From gimbals to tripods and accessory arms, Benro making an impact with lots of new products
a 1/4in thread or an Arca-Swiss-style quick-release clamp. The cost is £115 for the Arcasmart 360 Dual, £60 for the Kickstand, £47.50 for the Sidearm clamps. Rama1 and Rama2 adjustable arms let users fit accessory mounting points to tripods and heads, allowing the addition of monitors, microphones and lights. The Rama1 is 13cm long; the Rama2 24cm. Both support up to 10kg, retailing at £50 and £58, respectively. uk.benroeu.com
can work with either a camera or smartphone to enable 360° panning. Its quick-release plate is compatible with Arca-Swiss and Manfrotto RC2 camera plate systems. The Arcasmart Kickstand is a phone clamp designed as a multi-purpose holder. It can easily be mounted to a tripod or monopod, while its kickstand design offers the option of setting up on a tabletop. The Arcasmart Sidearm is a smartphone clamp that mounts to
landscape and wildlife photographers. The TTOR24CLV extends to a max height of 148.5cm, weighs 1.38kg and holds up to 14kg. The larger TTOR34CLV reaches 153.5cm, weighs 1.7kg and bears loads of up to 20kg. The TTOR24CLV costs £240, with the TTOR34CLV £260. Aimed at content creators, Benro’s Arcasmart range of products helps users transition seamlessly between shots and add extra accessories to their set-up. The Arcasmart 360 Dual
Benro’s GH2F Folding Gimbal Head has super-smooth movement, with accurate and low-speed positioning precision. It folds down to a compact unit for travel, with a removable arm that can be an L-bracket on any Arca- Swiss-style head. The GH2F weighs a modest 1.13kg, supporting a maximum weight of 10kg. It retails at £480. A popular option for those seeking optimum weight, capacity and stability, the Tortoise tripod series has gained two new additions that promise to suit
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News
MPB gets sporty MPB is the headline partner for the World Sports Photography Awards, Leading used kit brand sponsors the World Sports Photo Awards
World Sports Photography Awards co-founder Simon Burton added: “We share a passion for sport and visual storytelling with MPB. Over two years, we’ve developed these awards into a prestigious, vibrant campaign with a global audience. We’re excited about the opportunities we can explore with MPB, and look forward to sharing the best images with more fans than ever.” worldsportsphotography awards.com mpb.com
chief marketing officer at MPB, said: “At MPB, we are dedicated to opening up the world of visual storytelling. Sport and photography are inextricably linked. The power of visual storytelling and the values and essence of sport are combined to make us think differently, look again, transform and ultimately change. We look forward to sharing the amazing World Sports Photography Awards images with a wider audience, and help every image maker hone their sports photography skills.”
Vanguard unveils its range of VEO Active backpacks, perfect for the outdoors A series not to miss
the leading competition for pro sports image makers. In previous editions, they’ve celebrated work from around the world, across multiple disciplines at iconic events, and a new category for amateurs has been added. The awards opened for entries at the end of February, with winners announced in June. Judges will be high-profile individuals from sports, media and photography. On the announcement, Sophie Collins,
The VEO Active series includes Vanguard’s first-ever waterproof pouch for on-the-go hydration, and plenty of pockets for storing snacks. A handy feature is the built-in USB port, allowing you to charge your phone using a power bank (not included). Don’t worry about running out of charge before it gets dark. Durable and weather resistant, the VEO Active series is made with tough nylon 84-D Cordura, waterproof zips, quality herringbone and double reverse stitching. A rain cover is included. Four sizes are available: the VEO Active 42M, 46, 49 and 53, costing £149.99, £199.99, £229.99 and £249.99, respectively. The 42M is tested in this issue on page 35, and the Vanguard contest on page 12 has two VEO Active backpacks up for grabs. The winners can choose which bag they receive. vanguardworld.co.uk
Vanguard recognises that landscape photographers need strong, sturdy gear, for carrying around all their kit and personal stuff when on the hunt for the perfect shot. That’s why it has come up with the VEO Active series, offering practical carrying solutions in four different sizes. The series is highly versatile. A roomy main storage area includes a removable, sturdy inner insert with zipped front, and can be organised according to each user’s needs, thanks to next-generation, slimline smart dividers. Or, the insert can be removed entirely, freeing up the backpack for everyday use – and each bag comes with two extra storage pouches. Boasting an aluminium alloy frame and thick padding for the lower back and shoulders, the VEO Active series is designed to protect your back, as well as your kit.
The 20mm f/2 DG DN joins the Contemporary line Sigma adds to its C family
Leading labs join forces Multi-award-winning pro print labs, Digitalab and Colorworld Imaging,
and I have discussed the various strengths and unique attributes of each business over the years. It became clear that aligning in a strong partnership would not only create one of the most prominent pro labs in Europe, but enable us to extend our product ranges and services to all-important customers.” digitalab.co.uk
will merge. The new business is called Digitalab Ltd, harnessing a combined trading history of over 120 years to offer an impressive range. “This is a hugely exciting, customer-driven merger,” says Jill Roe, managing director of Digitalab. “We will become an even stronger entity as one company, giving us the ability to provide a far wider range of products and services to the photographic community.” Mike Brydon, managing director of Colorworld Imaging, adds: “Jill
The construction of the lens uses three high-precision, glass-moulded aspherical lens elements, one SLD and one FLD element. These combine to eliminate a variety of optical aberrations, including sagittal coma flare, while Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating and Nano Porous Coating reduce flare and ghosting. The lens is priced at £649.99 and comes with a lens hood and caps. sigma-imaging-uk.com
The 20mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary is an ultra-compact, wide-aperture prime lens available in E-mount and L-Mount fittings. Sigma claims the latest lens will be a game changer for mirrorless users, offering a winning combination of laser-sharp optics within a small, lightweight body. This lens is a great option for those in the market for glass that’s suited to landscapes, wide-angle portraits, weddings and interiors.
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WhiteWall
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WhiteWall’s Coffee Table Book service means you can create a professional-level product from high-quality materials – use your own photographs, simply and without fuss
COFFEE TABLE BOOKS of your own photographs are an expression of personal creativity, giving you plenty of space and the perfect finish for your photographic art. They stand for understated design, quiet aesthetics and a passion for photography. Your most memorable images are transformed into a perfect artistic book, as an exclusive presentation of your best work. To create compositions for photographic books in large format and present your pictures in a high-quality photography book, WhiteWall offers unique solutions: a classic format art book and album, a small presentation, an extensive photo project or a coffee table book. Each is inspired by the stunning examples from the world’s most renowned photographers. With WhiteWall Coffee Table Books, special emphasis is placed on exquisite materials and manufacturing quality – production according to the highest standards of craftsmanship. The range is based on simple layouts, styles and backgrounds, which focus on the photos. In addition, there are no logos or barcodes on the books, emphasising the professional character of the product. As the best online photo lab and professional image workshop, WhiteWall offers three ways to order: online, via a new downloadable software, or PDF upload. All of these options lead you step-by-step to an individual, top-quality coffee table book – the design process is easy to implement and user-friendly. Powerful photographs, from perfectly staged architectural or nature photographs to personal portraits, all need space to showcase their full effect. For this reason, the WhiteWall Coffee Table Book can also be designed in an elegant large format up to A3 – freely selectable between portrait and landscape – so that your coffee table book can always be adapted to the type of image. “Our goal is to always offer our customers the absolute best. The books are produced in our own workshop, and reach a whole new level,” says WhiteWall managing director and founder Alexander Nieswandt. A stunning exhibition WhiteWall’s range offers different formats, paper types, covers and endpapers, meaning you get an individual result. Essentially, the larger the images can be presented, the more impressive the coffee table book will be. Exhibition A4 Portrait (20.5x27cm) or, if there are a lot of panorama images to display, Exhibition A4 landscape (27x20.5cm) are both ideal formats for any design project. The Gallery Square (29x29cm) format has a creative effect. Impressive photos could also be displayed in Portfolio A3 format (portrait: 27x35.6cm, landscape: 38.2x29cm). Options start from 28 pages,
expandable by four at a time up to 200 pages, depending on the paper selection. This means a WhiteWall Coffee Table Book is ideal for even the most demanding and expansive projects. The special feel of these books truly brings photos to life. High-quality paper is an important design feature, guaranteeing extraordinary print results, with brilliant colours, precise contrasts and captivating image depth. Customers will be able to choose from six carefully selected, branded papers, including different thicknesses and surfaces – with glossy, high-gloss or silk-matte finishes. For the high-quality inkjet papers, WhiteWall uses modern printing and an elastic glue binding for classic bookbinding – inkjet printing is a speciality in the market. High-resolution printing is particularly suitable for detailed photographs, brilliant colours and detail sharpness. The Fuji photo papers use a traditional photographic printing method. Here, panorama layflat binding reduces the fold to a minimum, ideal for large-format photographs on double-page spreads. No disturbing folds interrupt the viewer’s eye. It doesn’t begin with the designed content; the discerning class should be unmistakable from the very first page. The cover gives the first impression of style and character. With a high thickness of 3mm and a choice of matte or glossy finishes, the sturdy hardcover of the WhiteWall Coffee Table Book immediately conveys the elegance and exquisite feel of a luxury art book. The free design options for the cover allow your creative ideas to run wild, forging a truly unique object. WhiteWall also offers a standard choice of inner cover pages for photo paper, and front cover paper for inkjet printing. Choose to be modern and stylish in white, or classically elegant in black.
Three pathways to perfection At WhiteWall, there are three routes you can take when designing your coffee table book:
1 Use the browser on whitewall.com. This practical, brand- new solution means your book project can be viewed and edited from anywhere – with a storage time of 90 days. In addition, this cloud-based option lets you share the book with friends or clients during the drafting process.
2 WhiteWall’s new downloadable software for Windows, Mac and Linux is specially developed for creating extensive book projects. With myriad features, as well as a wizard function, this software brings together a user- friendly application with the full range of design options.
3 Design books personally with your own software. Then, order your individually created coffee table books via a print-ready PDF upload at WhiteWall. This feature offers full flexibility, as it is designed for programs including Adobe InDesign – with many templates to download.
whitewall.com
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News
Photo 24 It’s time to apply for your place on Photo 24 – a free, day-long festival in London
THERE’S NOTHING QUITE like Photo 24, a 24-hour photography extravaganza in the capital on one of the longest days of the year. It’s packed with photo walks, workshops, experiences and challenges – and it’s free. This year’s Photo 24 is sponsored by MPB, winner of best used specialist retailer in the Photography News 2021 Awards. MPB will also be offering events and prizes. The day kicks off at 12 noon on 25 June at an exclusive central London location. This will be Photo 24 headquarters for the festival, accessible for the duration of the event. PN team members will also be on hand to offer help, advice and inspiration for 24 hours. Places are limited, so we can ensure every attendee has a great
experience. Applications are now open via our website, and it’s a simple registration process. We want to be as fair as possible, so while entry is open, the closing date is not until 17 May 2022 – only after that will a ballot be held for places. Successful applicants will be emailed shortly after, with confirmation of their place and specific details of the events, competitions and walks available. Most are free, but optional, paid-for activities are on offer. Photo 24 is an all-day festival, but that doesn’t mean you have to shoot the whole time. On previous Photo 24s, we have had readers who commit to the whole event, racking up thousands of steps in the process. Many book a hotel and shoot consistently, but take a few
ANOTHER DAY INTHE LIFE London is never short of interesting and unique scenes
Photo 24 sponsors: MPB
The process is efficient, fuss-free and transparent. If you’re looking to upgrade kit or clear the cupboard, MPB is the place to start. mpb.com
If it’s an item MPB regularly deals in, you’ll get an instant quote. For more unusual products, a quote will come in 24 hours or less. Once you are happy, MPB sends a courier to collect the kit, and after its technical experts have checked it over thoroughly, you will be given a final quote. If your item selection was incorrect, or your assessment of the kit’s condition is different from MPB’s, you will be contacted. When the final offer is accepted, the cash is sent to your bank account shortly after – or you can use it as credit to buy from MPB. If you decline, the equipment will be returned gratis.
MPB has transformed how image makers sell and buy pre-loved kit. Founded in 2011, MPB has always been committed to making it easier to buy and trade-in equipment. Now, over 300,000 items are recirculated each year, and it has headquarters in the UK, Germany and the US. MPB was named the best used specialist retailer in this year’s PN Awards. Whether you want to buy or sell kit, the process is simple. To sell, start typing in the camera or lens name and the website’s predictive search will make suggestions about your item – just click on the correct one. Next, you’ll be asked about its condition.
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News
hours off to rest and catch some sleep, while others – perhaps those who live in reasonable travelling distance from the capital – do the afternoon and the following morning. Essentially, it is up to the individual photographer to enjoy Photo 24 however they wish. If you’re worried about attending alone, a buddy system will be in place: meet up with fellow readers, who can help you out. We’ll have themed photo contests for shots taken on Photo 24, with an entry deadline after the event to allow for editing time. In addition, there’s a Super 24 Challenge, with shooting themes announced on the hour using social media – a sort of virtual Photo 24. Themes are designed to get the grey matter working, but we’ll throw in few less testing ones, too. At the closing event, which takes place at 12 noon on 26 June, everyone in attendance is presented with a souvenir T-shirt – and the winner of the Super 24 Challenge is announced. If you love the idea of Photo 24, but can’t travel to London or don’t get a place via the ballot, we’ll be
giving readers everywhere a chance to get involved in our Super 24 Challenge, by announcing subject themes on social media. These will be exactly the same as those for live Photo 24 attendees – and relevant to most urban locations. Also look out for a separate competition: all submitted images from virtual Photo 24 attendees will be judged by the PN team, with prizes for the best. There’s no limit on how many readers can get involved in the virtual event – the more the merrier! Further details of Photo 24 will be announced in forthcoming issues of PN , on the website and our podcast. Meanwhile, please go to the website and apply for a place. photographynews.co.uk
STREET MOVES London is a top spot for grabbing candid pictures
LONG DAY, SHORT NIGHT Photo 24 is on one of the longest days of the year, but there’s plenty to shoot at night, too
A LITTLE HELP FROMMY FRIENDS Whether you’re committed to the full 24 hours, or just want to pick highlight events, working with other photographers adds something special. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded people
Tune in or lose out Photography News has its own podcast, with the team of editor
images at the moment, our podcast is the answer. Each episode is free and available to listen to on our website, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. photographynews.co.uk
Photo 24 is a little in the future, but the team will start building up to the event with special episodes, as well as providing advice on shooting street and city subjects. If you’re not happy with the quality of your urban
The team chat through their latest photo adventures, look at the newest kit launches and answer questions. If you have something to get off your chest, please email us on podcast@ photographynews.co.uk.
Will Cheung, editorial director Roger Payne and contributing editor Kingsley Singleton taking a close look at the exciting world of imaging.
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Issue 97 | Photography News 11
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News
Bag a bag We have two brand-new Vanguard backpacks as prizes in our simple-to-enter contest
A Samsung memory card! WIN!
O D E F I O N L A Y E R S Q B S O M L A R T C E T E D L O S L U I N W M I L V R D L G D H B C O H W E I O S A G G U G T T L R N O L G N N L N E E B G F N K I I A B V A Y E T U K T S R B W S H R W C L I H M P L E N I T I D R A A S D A E U S F K R R P U E R G A R I T U E T B O P F E F L U C S U Y V M M D T T B H M R N G O N X Y E T V A E T V U H L G R N F P U A I N O Z N S I I T L O R T A O K V With the need for superfast, high-capacity memory greater than ever, the new Samsung 256GB PRO Plus microSD card could be just the ticket – and here’s your chance to win one. Boasting up to 160MB/s read and 120MB/s write speeds, the card is ideal for expanded mobile device storage and capturing high-quality photos or 4K UHD video. Complete the word search below, 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 10 April 2022 and the winner will be drawn at random from all the correct entries received. The correct answer to PN 95’s word search was ‘reborn’, and the Samsung 256GB Evo Plus card was won by S Milward, Berkshire. samsung.com/uk/memory-cards
Four new bags have been added to Vanguard’s VEO Active range, perfect for outdoor and travel photographers. Better still, we have two to be won this month, and the winners can pick which one they want. The VEO Active 42M is the smallest, but its 17-litre capacity is still roomy enough for a camera with four lenses, a 13-inch laptop and a 10-inch tablet. The largest is the VEO Active 53 – this 45l bag can swallow seven lenses, including a fast aperture telephoto. Between the two are the VEO Active 46 and VEO Active 49, with 25l and 35l capacity, respectively. All four bags are available in dark grey or khaki green and made from weatherproof 840D cordura, which is three times more durable than polyester. Zips are waterproofed and have a metal frame for strength. Also featured is an exterior USB-A port with a cable inside the bag that can be connected to a power bank. Answer this question correctly to be in with a chance of winning a VEO Active bag of your choice. What is the storage capacity of the VEO Active 53?
10 April 2022 – the first two correct answers drawn at random after that date, win. The closing date for last month’s contest was extended. The winner of the VEO 3T+ 264CB carbon-fibre tripod will be announced in issue 98, due out from 12 April. vanguardworld.co.uk
A) 25l B) 35l C) 45l
To enter, go to photographynews.co.uk and follow the link. The closing date for entries is
Photography News now back in clubs Pre-pandemic, PN was bulk-delivered to UK camera clubs. That changed – but with life returning to normal, bulk deliveries are starting again
With many clubs now meeting in person once more, PN is reverting to delivering bulk copies to clubs and ceasing free individual deliveries. If your club would like to request a free bulk delivery, please send an email to Phil Gray on philipgray@bright-publishing.com. Include your camera club name, delivery address and the name of a member with their club position. Print copies are also available to collect in-store, through many leading UK imaging retailers. Stockist details are on our website. If you prefer to receive a print copy delivered straight to your door, a yearly subscription of 11 issues costs £19.99. Go to our website now to subscribe. The new issue will be posted on the website’s home page on the same day the printed issue gets distributed, so this is a great way of keeping up with the latest news. There is also an issue library, where every published PN can be perused for free. An even more convenient option is the PN newsletter. Sign up to this – again via the
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website – with your email address, and you will receive the latest issue of the magazine, news and special offers delivered direct to your inbox. Unsubscribe at any time. Finally, in case you’re not aware, PN has a fortnightly podcast and every episode is
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available on the website. photographynews.co.uk
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Issue 97 | Photography News 13
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The Insurance Emporium
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IF YOU’VE BEEN shooting for a while, you might know the feeling: it’s an icy chill that starts in the pit of your stomach and runs down your veins, all accompanied by a rising terror that your precious kit is in peril. Toppling tripods, bags inundated with water and sand at the beach, lenses tumbling onto concrete, or the sudden realisation that your camera has gone walkabout without you knowing... it’s guaranteed to ruin your day. The awkward thing is, the more adventurous and passionate you become with photography, the higher the chance of accidental damage or theft. Say you’re getting into night- time landscapes and starry skies, the probability of misplacing kit in the dark is multiplied. Travel photography is another marker of increased risk – out of your usual environment and concentrating on new sights, the risk of damage or theft is higher. Even working at home or in the studio isn’t without issues – from complex, still life set-ups with splashing oil and water, to portrait shoots where kids and pets can knock over your camera or lights, there’s always an element of risk. While most of us have home contents insurance – which may cover any item declared by the policy holder in and outside of the home – some snappers consider choosing a dedicated photography insurance policy, due to the range
insurance starts from £1.46 per lunar month! * So, whether you’re unlucky enough to claim for a lens, flash, tripod or the camera itself, The Insurance Emporium will take care of it! Head to the website to read customer
of specialised cover available. This year’s Photography News Awards saw The Insurance Emporium voted best insurance provider, and although we hope you never have to make a claim, it’s easy to see why our readers think they’re a great company to deal with. The Insurance Emporium protects everyone – from amateurs to semi- and full-time professionals – against
theft, loss or accidental damage of kit, as well as items stolen from unattended vehicles. Worldwide cover for up to 240 days per year, and up to 100% of the sum is insured as standard. They even have a range of Optional Benefits, allowing you to add further cover to your policy, tailoring it to your specific needs. Best of all, camera “The Insurance Emporium protects everyone – from amateurs to full-time professionals”
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SUCCESS + EXHIBITIONS + PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENTS + OUTINGS News Camera club
Chapel CC is exhibiting Twenty Twenty… and Beyond , a show of 30 self-portraits from its Arts Council’s funded project, ‘Living Through Lockdown – Personal Perspectives in Photographs’. Also on show are the winning images from the club’s ‘People’s Summer’ competition. Each Saturday afternoon, during the exhibition, the club is holding ‘Meet the Photographer’ sessions. Visitors can join up with members to discover more about the club’s programme, mentoring opportunities – and to chat photography. The venue is Gallery 2, Buxton Museum and Art Gallery, Terrace Road, Buxton SK17 6DA. The show runs until 2 May and is free. Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays). chapelcameraclub.org.uk Chapel CC
Bury PS
The Bury PS sports special interest group has an exhibition of its work at Wex Manchester, running until 20 May. Free entry. Bury PS meets on Thursdays at Fishpool Liberal Club, Nelson Street, Bury BL9 9HX. buryps.co.uk
Bromsgrove Photographic Society’s Tuesday meetings are held at Avoncroft Arts Centre, Bromsgrove, at 8pm. On 3 May, Bromsgrove PS is hosting a presentation entitled ‘From Sea Lions to Sharks’, by David Keep, a highly acclaimed underwater photographer. During this talk, David tells us how he goes about capturing his images, supported by behind-the-scenes video. Tickets are £8 and can be bought from davidkeepphotography. co.uk/bromsgrove-talk bromsgroveps.com Bromsgrove PS
MyPhotoClub
MyPhotoClub is a new online club, the brainchild of Roy Morris, member of Eastbourne PS. “It’s for everyone using a camera or phone to produce images, wherever they live,” says Roy. “My club was one of the first to embrace Zoom meetings. Since then, I believe the demand for online content has continued to grow – so I’ve launched MyPhotoClub. Initially, it will offer weekly Zoom meetings with UK and international speakers (£3.75 per talk) and an active Facebook group.” Newsletters, meet-ups and contests are being planned. Contact Roy on roy@myphotoclub.co.uk myphotoclub.co.uk
Richmond and Twickenham PS
The RTPS convenes on Thursdays at 8pm, at St Luke’s, Kew Community Centre, The Avenue, Kew TW9 2AJ. rtps.org.uk
Richmond and Twickenham’s annual exhibition is on 14-24 April at the Landmark Arts Centre in Teddington. Also showing is the RPS Visual Art Group print display.
Thanet CC
Cranleigh’s annual show on March 26 will feature over 300 photographs on a wide range of subjects. The digital art category covers images constructed with digital software from one or more other photographs, as expressions of image makers’ creative imagination. Exhibition entries were assessed by Tim Morland ARPS. The show is on at Cranleigh Village Hall – entry is free and refreshments are available. cranleighcameraclub.co.uk Cranleigh CC
isleofthanetphotographicsociety. co.uk
Some members of Thanet CC have gone back in time. The club’s analogue group uses a variety of cameras – from a 5x4in format to pinhole. They have enjoyed processing meet-ups, field trips and cyanotype workshops. An iconic location in Kent is the shingle beach at Dungeness with its many huts. This photograph by David James Silk was captured on an HP3 glass plate manufactured in 1950, but exposed and developed in 2022!
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Buyers’ guide Dreamkit From renting pro kit to saving money on nearly new gear, hiring and second-hand buying can get you the cameras and lenses you crave. Here are some trusted services to try…
get more gear for your budget. Feel free to hunt out the most recent models of cameras and lenses, but remember to investigate previous- generation gear, too, because that’s where the greatest savings are. See yourself kitted up for a fraction of the price. These days, you can rely on reputable sellers to offer money-back guarantees and extended cover on the kit you’ve chosen, as well as friendly and expert advice. Of course, you’ll be able to trade-in unwanted kit against the price of what you want. Hire your dream gear Develop a ‘hire state of consciousness’, and the benefits will become clear. Lots of lenses and bodies are perfect for specific situations, but out of reach to most of us. If you hire the kit instead, you could pay the tiniest
fraction of the purchase price, while enjoying all the benefits. High-res pro bodies and fast lenses can be expensive, running into tens of thousands of pounds. But hire them, and you could be using the same gear as an elite photographer this weekend for only hundreds. Renting is also a chance to try before you buy. If thinking about a big purchase, or even switching systems, you’ll feel more assured after a few days spent with the equipment on loan. Get kitted out So, check out our top picks for hiring and pre-loved buying, as well as some of the options we spotted on these company sites. All references to current sales items and hire prices were correct as PN went to press – so be quick if you want to snag them!
ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS GET GAS – and not just the digestive kind. Gear Acquisition Syndrome is a real thing, and keeps us flipping through magazine ads and web pages as we look for new kit to raise the quality of our photography, or solve limitations. And GAS can be an expensive problem – unless you’re smart enough to look for solutions other than shopping at regular stores. Two great options for saving money are renting and buying second-hand. Thankfully, the market has never offered more reliable and easy-to-use options for both.
LensPimp › lenspimp.com › 01752 310132 The excellently named LensPimp was set up to help photo and video creatives get their hands on the latest cameras and optics for a fraction of the purchase price. Yes, it’s not just lenses on offer here, but bodies from all the major brands, flash equipment, accessories like battery grips – even sound recording kit, if you’re expanding into movies. Rental options run from a day to four weeks’ hire, and gear is couriered direct to your door, while deposits aren’t usually required. Why not try out a Fujifilm X-T4 for three
MPB › mpb.com › 0330 818 0756 One of the world’s largest dealers in pre-loved photo gear, MPB prides itself on giving customers an honest and hassle-free experience. There’s a spectacular range of cameras and lenses, including DSLRs, CSCs, action cams, digital rangefinders and medium format bodies, as well as tripods, bags, filters and batteries. Expect next-working-day delivery, a Shop second-hand Buying pre-loved kit, whether in like-new or well-used condition, will always save money compared to the list price. And that means you can enjoy your photography for less, or
days? Along with an XF50-140mm f/2.8 WR OIS lens, this will set you back £195.99 – 7% of the list price.
seven-day return policy and a six-month warranty, while all product photos are shot in- house, so you can see exactly what you’re buying. Selling is just as easy – consider what you could trade-in against your chosen gear. As of right now, you can pick up a used Nikon Z 7 body in excellent condition for only £1749 – that’s nearly £1000 less than the regular price.
TRYFUJIFILM
Fujifilm offers a free 48-hour loan on its latest X Series and GFX System cameras and lenses. In the X Series, current models in the loan scheme are the X-E4, X-Pro3, X-S10, X-T4 and X100V. If something bigger is to your taste, the GFX 50S II, GFX 100 and GFX 100S are on offer. The Try Fujifilm scheme allows five free 48-hour loans a year. To try a camera body and lens free for 48 hours, use two of your five annual loans. Of course, you still need to pay deposits for both items, and any extra charges if you want an extension beyond two days. If you do, and then go on to buy any equipment that you’ve tried, log on to your Fujifilm Connect account. Select Refunds/
Cashback, choose the voucher relevant to your loan, upload proof of purchase and you’ll get a refund of any loan charges. A live availability function allows you to check stock, and you receive a live update of any charges for a loan period longer
than the two free days. fujifilm-loan.com/en-gb
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