New Sony DSLR-A390 and DSLR-A290

Sony released new entry level DSLRs A290 and A390 featuring a new grip design, the image-stabilized 14MP CCD sensor from the A380.

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3

Adobe is updating its popular RAW processing tool Lightroom to version 3 featuring

  • a new RAW processing engine (same as in CS5) with major performance improvements
  • profile based lens correction
  • tethered  shooting for some Canon and Nikon lenses
  • management of video files
  • new import dialog with previews
  • support for synchronization with Flickr (supported directly) and other communities (via plugins)
  • printing layouts
  • export of slideshows as video files

The update is availble for $99 (or $299 for new users).

Carl Zeiss 25/2.8 lens for Nikon

Carl Zeiss anounces the ZF.2 version of it’s 25mm/f 2.8 lens for the Nikon mount, a wide angle manual focus prime lens featuring a CPU that allows full support of automatic exposure modes. The lens is available at EUR 755.

Nikon confirms issues with Nikkor 24/1.4 lens

After weeks of rumors and many disbelieving the bad news (and I still don’t get it!) Nikon USA seems to confirm issues with at least two of the new Nikkor 24/1.4 lenses:

“Nikon Service was able to reproduce your issue with your lens as well as another lens. They are currently studying the issue and trying to determine if/when it can be addressed.” (NIKON USA, General Manager of Technical Support)

That’s pretty bad news for potential buyers of this prime lens. I will keep you updated. Source: forum post

Nikon Service was able to reproduce your issue with your lens as well as another lens. They are currently studying the issue and trying to determine if/when it can be addressed.

Nikkor AF-S 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II

Nikon finally has announced the updated version of it’s brilliant AF-S 200-400/4.0 lens featuring the newer VR II, Nano coating, and an A/M mode added to the focus switch. The lens should be available in May.