F OCUS ISSUE 11 APR 06 MITA (P) 016/07/2005 PHOTO: DAVID TAY

Transcription

1 F OCUS ISSUE 11 APR 06 MITA (P) 016/07/2005 A QUARTERLY A QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER FROM FROM NIKON PHOTO: DAVID TAY

2 Q & A CONTEST EVENTS QUICK GLANCE WHAT S WITHIN 02 EDITOR S NOTE FEATURED PRODUCT - COOLPIX L2, L3 & L4 COOLPIX S5 & S6 COOLPIX P3 & P4 LENSES NIKON VIEW PRO NIKON CAPTURE NX COMPARE & CHOOSE PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS 33 D70/D70s/D50 WORKSHOP PORTFOLIO : DAVID TAY PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST EVENTS 49 Q & A CONTEST 51 FREE DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHER AWARD - CONTEST 56 COMING EVENTS /CONTACTS 01

3 NEW PRODUCTS What was I doing thirty years ago? Let me see; play pick-up sticks with neighbours, play hide and seek with cousins, go on imaginary tea parties with my dolls.. Arggghhh! I AM GETTING LONG IN THE TOOTH! Sorry, sorry, sorry typical early thirties women s response to age. Coming back to the point, backward compatibility is some what undervalued by people nowadays? Today we cannot even get our computer to remain obsolete proof in less than a decade! Lets take that into context, * Nikon shifts SLR lens type to AI (Automatic maximum aperture Indexing). Yes that was almost thirty years ago when AI lenses were introduced and today on your shiny new Nikon D200 when its get mounted you get metering! How s that for a hat trick? Forgive me for rambling but I do get nostalgic when a classic like the AF 105mm/f2.8D gets refreshed (see our latest lens announcement page 19)! Do not get me wrong, I strongly believe that any product that can be improved should and when the quicker it is done the better! Since the launch of our AF-S DX VR 18~200 Nikkor Zoom f3.5~5.6g, I have never seen so much excitement from consumers for a lens since! Hopefully this new lens will generate as much enthusiasm as the previous launch. Along the same vein, our latest reiteration of our software Nikon Capture NX is going to bring a sparkle of imagination in a many a user s way in which they are going to do post processing. Not to blow our trumpets but I feel this software is going to be a welcome edition for many photographers; professional and amateurs alike! NEW RELEASES This issue also has the privilege to feature David PC Tay, who is the CEO of SPH Magazines which has among its stable of magazines in the likes of Her World, Home & Décor, Her World Brides, Citta Bella etc. He is also the President of The Photographic Society of Singapore, one of his various high profile portfolios. Despite his busy schedule, he takes time off to explore the world with his newly acquired D2X system. By the way, do take a look at the winning entry from Mr Wong Chek Poh titled RAFFLES CITY from our photography contest. Good composition from a unique point of view plus nice geometric lines. Interestingly enough, the play on light and shadows made this even more appealing. Congratulation Mr Wong, you will hearing from us very soon. By the way, you got to love our AF DX 10.5mm Fisheye f2.8 lens! Sourcing for a new camera bag for your D-SLR? Our Q&A contest on Page 49 is giving away a Billingham Camera Bag worth S$290 proudly sponsored by M S Color. Enjoy reading! Editor : Brenda Ang Contributors : Max Sim : Jimmy Chia : Dion Yong Production : Wang Design Station Distributor : Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd 80 Anson Road #10-01/02 Fuji Xerox Towers Singapore Tel: (65) Fax: (65) Co. Reg. No. : K Feedback focus@nikon-asia.com Website : Brenda Ang Editor Front Cover By David Tay 02 03

4 FEATURED PRODUCT - COOLPIX L2,L3,L4 FEATURED PRODUCT - COOLPIX L2,L3,L4 photography, for more natural-looking portraits. A choice of 15 different Scene modes 4 with Scene assist makes it so much easier to achieve desired results in a wide range of everyday situations. These three COOLPIX digital cameras offer movieshooting capability** in three sizes: TV movie size (640) for viewing on TV or computers, convenient Small size (320), and Smaller size (160) for extended recording or Internet usage. EFFECTIVE PIXELS: L2: 6.0 million L3: 5.1 million L4: 4.0 million LENS: L2 and L3: 3x Zoom-Nikkor; mm (35mm [135] format equivalent to approx mm); f/ ; 5 elements in 5 groups; Digital zoom: up to 4x L4: 3x Zoom-Nikkor; mm (35mm [135] format equivalent to approx mm); f/ ; 7 elements in 6 groups; Digital zoom: up to 4x RCP S$499 RCP S$399 RCP S$299 FOCUS RANGE (APPROX.) L2 and L3: 30cm (1 ft.) to infinity ( ), 10cm (3.9 in.) to infinity ( ) in Macro mode L4: 30cm (1 ft.) to infinity ( ), 4cm (1.6 in.) to infinity ( ) in Macro mode THREE COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERAS OFFERING EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN AND HIGH-QUALITY FINISH, WITH THE EASY OPERABILITY TO LET ANYONE TAKE A BETTER CLASS OF PICTURE. Tokyo Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX L2, COOLPIX L3 and COOLPIX L4. These three entry-level digital compact cameras combine high-quality components like a 3x Zoom-Nikkor lens and a bright 2.0-inch LCD with in-camera imageimprovement features, in lightweight and compact, yet elegantly finished bodies. All three cameras boast powerful mm (114mm for the COOLPIX L4) Zoom-Nikkor lenses (35mm equivalent), providing the liberty to zoom in for tight personal portraits, or zoom out to take in expansive outdoor scenes. Despite the compact design, COOLPIX L2 offers a generous 6.0 megapixels, COOLPIX L3 offers 5.1 megapixels and COOLPIX L4 offers 4.0 megapixels ensuring the refined image clarity that you can expect. The new COOLPIX L-Series feature a bright, easyto-view 2.0-inch LCD that s now even easier to operate with new icons and function selection, and easier on the eyes thanks to a new color scheme. Adding significantly to this convenient portability is the advantage of AA-size battery compatibility. One of the most widely available battery sizes in the world, in alkaline, lithium, rechargeable or other forms, this advantage allows the user to continue shooting without worrying about international battery availability. Unique to current COOLPIX digital cameras are a range of Nikon capabilities that give the user the power to automatically improve recorded images in-camera. D-Lighting: Available in playback mode, the D- Lighting function selects and creates a copy of images with excessive backlight or insufficient flash illumination, adding light and detail wherever needed while keeping other areas as they were. Face-priority AF* : Automatically detects and then focuses in on people s faces, regardless of where they are in the frame, ensuring superb crisp-focus portraits. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix : Analyzes each image, automatically finding and then correcting the accidental red-eye that sometimes occurs in flash LCD MONITOR: STORAGE MEDIA: SHOOTING MODES: MOVIE: CAPTURE MODES: BUILT-IN FLASH: INTERFACE: POWER REQUIREMENTS: BATTERY LIFE (APPROX.): DIMENSIONS (WXHXD): WEIGHT (APPROX.): L2 and L3: 2.0-inch type, 86,000-dot TFT LCD monitor with brightness adjustment L4: 2.0-inch type, 115,000-dot TFT LCD monitor with brightness adjustment L2 and L3: Internal memory (approx. 23MB), SD memory card L4: Internal memory (approx. 10MB), SD memory card Auto, 4 modes with Scene assist (Portrait, Landscape, Sports, Night Portrait), 11 Scene modes (Party/Indoor, Beach/Snow, Sunset, Dusk/Dawn, Night Landscape, Close Up, Museum, Fireworks Show, Copy, Back Light, Panorama Assist), Voice Recording (L2 and L3), BSS (Best Shot Selector), Color options, Blur Warning, Date Imprint, Selftimer (10 sec.) L2 AND L3: With sound: TV movie (640) at 30fps/15fps, Small size (320) at 30fps/15fps, Smaller size (160) at 15fps L4: Without sound: TV movie (640) at 15fps, Small size (320) at 15fps, Smaller size (160) at 15fps L2 and L3: 1) Single 2) Continuous (approx. 1.7fps) 3) Multi-shot 16 L4: 1) Single 2) Multi-shot 16 Range: L2 and L3: Approx m/1 ft. - 9 ft. 10 in. (W), Approx m/1 ft. - 5 ft. 9 in. (T) L4: Approx m/1 ft. 4 in. - 9 ft. 10 in. (W), Approx m/1 ft. 4 in. - 5 ft. 7 in. (T); Flash modes: Auto, Auto with Red-eye Reduction (In-Camera Red- Eye Fix), Flash Cancel, Anytime Flash and Slow sync. L2 and L3: USB, Audio Video output L4: USB, Video output Rechargeable Ni-MH Battery EN-MH1 x 2, AA-size battery (LR6 alkaline, ZR6 oxyride, or lithium) x 2, AC Adapter EH-65A (optional) L2: 180 shots with alkaline, 600 shots with lithium, or 320 shots with EN-MH1 L3: 200 shots with alkaline, 630 shots with lithium, or 330 shots with EN-MH1 L4: 250 shots with alkaline, 600 shots with lithium, or 450 shots with EN-MH1 (based on CIPA standard) L2 and L3: Approx. 91 x 60.5 x 26mm (3.6 x 2.4 x 1.0 in.) L4: Approx x 60.5 x 34.5mm (3.4 x 2.4 x 1.4 in.) L2 and L3: 120g (4.2 oz.) without battery and SD memory card L4: 115g (4.1 oz.) without battery and SD memory card 04 05

5 FEATURED PRODUCT - D200 FEATURED PRODUCT - COOLPIX S5, S6 RCP S$649 RCP S$749 TWO EXCITING DIGITAL COMPACTS PACKING NEW PHOTO- SHARING ENTERTAINMENT INTO ATTRACTIVE WAVE-SURFACE DESIGNS. Slim is in but now get ready for the new Wave- Surface Design. Following the successful release of Coolpix S1, S2 and S3, Nikon is proud to announce Coolpix S5 and Coolpix S6. Now features packed with state of the art incamera feature, large LCDs and the powerful Pictmotion function that allows users to create entertaining in-camera shows. Coolpix S5 is available in Gross Silver, Gross Blue and Gross Red while Coolpix S6 is available in Matt Black and Gross Gray. PICTMOTION by muvee Entertainment with style, the Coolpix S5 and S6 come with Pictmotion by Muvee that enable users create so than just a slideshow in fact, it s an imaginative function offering totally new incamera entertainment. Allowing users to select favorite image and movie files, pick a style, and then select a music file from one of 5 pre-installed in the camera, or even add their own music (via PictureProject for Windows only) to suit the show, Pictmotion automatically analyzes all the aforementioned elements to produce highly entertaining shows with pace and transition selected to match music and style. Looking for a high resolution LCD Monitor? The Coolpix S5 comes with a 2.5 LCD while Coolpix S6 comes with a 3.0 LCD. Both LCD monitors have a surprisingly wide viewing angle of 170 (both horizontal and vertical) The Coolpix S5 and S6 also featured new function such as Auto Image Rotation, which detects pictures that have been taken with the camera held vertically, automatically rotating them to suit incamera LCD playback. Packed in the slim body is a 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens with a range of mm (35mm equivalent) that gives the photographer the freedom to zoom out for beautiful landscapes, zoom in for tightly composed portraits, and enjoy macro photography from as close as 4cm. The eye-catching wave-surface designs with thin, compact dimensions make the COOLPIX S5 and S6 feel more comfortable in the hand

6 FEATURED PRODUCT - COOLPIX S5, S6 FEATURED PRODUCT - COOLPIX S5, S6 For easy access to the feature packed Coolpix S5 and S6, it is equipped with a Rotary multi selector that allows fast circular scrolling for speedy image browsing at up to 10 frames per second. The Rotary multi selector also features a range of buttons that further simplify operation, while an on-screen icon with a cursor that tracks circular scrolling makes it easy to select desired features. Furthermore, users can choose to select functions by name or icon according to their preferences, and all menus and icons have been made easier on the eye with a new color scheme and optimized icon dimensions. ONE-TOUCH P O R T R A I T B U T T O N conveniently located at the top of the camera body that makes it much simpler to take better quality pictures by offering easy access to Nikon s unique Facepriority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting functions. With Face-priority AF*, the cameras can automatically detect people s faces in the frame, no matter where they are located, to produce sharply focused portraits. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix can detect the unfortunate red-eye effect that can sometimes happen in flash photography, then automatically compensate for it in-camera to produce more flattering results. D-Lighting (available in playback mode) enables users to improve images that are underexposed or taken with too much back light creating a copy of the image with light and detail added where necessary and well-exposed parts left exactly the way they were. WIFI CAPABILITIES (COOLPIX S6 ONLY) The COOLPIX S6 delivers the additional advantage of Wi-Fi capability. Offering IEEE b/g support, it allows users to send images wirelessly to a computer as soon as they are taken or to transfer all images stored in memory to computer in one go. The COOLPIX S6 even supports cable-free printing**, enabling images to be sent directly to PictBridge-compatible printers without the need to use a computer at all. SHOOTING MODES: MOVIE: PICTMOTION CAPTURE MODES: BUILT-IN FLASH: INTERFACE: WIRELESS CAPABILITY: POWER REQUIREMENTS: BATTERY LIFE (APPROX.): DIMENSIONS (WXHXD): WEIGHT (APPROX.): Auto, 4 modes with Scene assist (Portrait, Landscape, Sports, Night Portrait), 11 Scene modes (Party/Indoor, Beach/Snow, Sunset, Dusk/Dawn, Night Landscape, Close Up, Museum, Fireworks Show, Copy, Back Light, Panorama Assist), Voice Recording, One-Touch Portrait Mode, BSS (Best Shot Selector), Exposure BSS, Color Options, Blur Warning, Date Imprint, Self-timer (3, 10 sec.) With sound: TV movie (640) at 30fps, Small size (320) at 30fps/15fps, Smaller size (160) at 15fps, Pictmotion (320) at 15fps; Without sound: Time-lapse movie at 30fps, Electronic VR (Vibration Reduction) available 5 styles selectable to playback movies or up to 30 still images, 5 music files pre-installed, max. 3 music files loadable* 1) Single, 2) Continuous (approx. 2.2fps), 3) Multi-shot 16 (approx. 2fps, only available at image size 6M), 4) Interval timer shooting Range: approx m/ 1 ft. 8 ft. 6 in. (W), approx m/ 1 ft. 4 ft. 7 in. (T); Flash modes: Auto, Auto with Red-eye Reduction (In-Camera Red-Eye Fix), Flash Cancel, Anytime Flash and Slow sync. S5: USB, Audio Video output (via COOL-STATION MV-14)/ S6: IEEE b/g, USB, Audio Video output (via COOL-STATION MV-15) S6: IEEE b/g, wireless range up to 20m (depending on environment) Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL8 (supplied), AC Adapter EH-64 (supplied) S5: 210 shots with EN-EL8/ S6: 200 shots with EN-EL8 (based on CIPA standard) S5: Approx. 93 x 59 x 20mm (3.7 x 2.3 x 0.8 in.)/ S6: Approx x 60 x 21mm (3.9 x 2.4 x 0.8 in.) excluding projections S5: 135g (4.8 oz.) without battery and SD memory card / S6: 140g (4.9 oz.) without battery and SD memory card EFFECTIVE PIXELS: LENS: FOCUS RANGE (APPROX.) FOCUS RANGE (APPROX.): LCD MONITOR: STORAGE MEDIA: 6.0 million High (2816*), Normal (2816), Normal (2048), PC (1024), TV (640) 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED; mm (35mm [135] format equivalent to approx mm); f/ ; 12 elements in 10 groups; Digital zoom: up to 4x 30cm (1 ft.) to infinity ( ), 4cm (1.6 in.) to infinity ( ) in Macro mode S5: 2.5-inch type, 230,000-dot TFT LCD monitor with brightness adjustment (170- degree wide viewing angle) /S6: 3.0-inch type, 230,000-dot TFT LCD monitor with brightness adjustment (170-degree wide viewing angle) SD memory card, S5: Internal memory (approx. 21MB)/ S6: Internal memory (approx. 20MB) 08 09

7 FEATURED PRODUCT - LENSES FEATURED PRODUCT -COOLPIX P3, P4 RCP S$799 RCP S$699 HIGHER PERFORMANCE, FURTHER FUNCTIONALITY AND EXTENDED PHOTO ENJOYMENT IN ATTRACTIVE BODY. Having seen the rave about Wifi technology in Coolpix P1/P2, Nikon take one step forward with the introduction of Coolpix P3 and Coolpix P4. The COOLPIX P3 and P4 feature a 1/1.8-inch CCD. And because they offer 8.1 effective megapixels of image resolution that ensure shots stay breathtakingly clear even when significantly enlarged. With the 11 wide-areas, it enables the Coolpix P3 and P4 to focus more accurately through analysis of a larger area of the frame. As a result, photographers can experiment with more imaginative compositions, with main subjects positioned away from the center or multiple subjects, and still be assured of crisp, sharp results. For those who want more control, Coolpix P3 and P4 offers Aperture Priority Mode which allow the user to control the aperture of the camera thus controlling the depth of view. A large apertures for attractive background blurring or stop down to small apertures to extend crisp focus into the distance all while the camera automatically selects the most appropriate shutter speed for optimized exposure. To promote a higher level of photographic fun and freedom, Coolpix P3 comes equipped with IEEE b/g LAN support. With WIFI support, it allow user to shoot and transfer images wirelessly to a workstation or even to a PictBridge compatible printer that is attached to an optional Wireless Printer Adapter PD

8 FEATURED PRODUCT -COOLPIX P3, P4 FEATURED PRODUCT -COOLPIX P3, P4 There is also range of Advanced Scene modes (9 Advanced Scene modes; 7 Scene modes) that give photographers the ability to capture a single scene with entirely different moods through the use of three effects that vary brightness, color intensity, sharpness, noise reduction and more. For sports lover, COOLPIX P3 and P4 also feature continuous shooting at up to 1.8 frames per second. This capability is also complemented by 5 shot buffer shooting that allows users to keep shooting in a continuous burst and have the camera record the last five images taken. Such functionality can be great when trying to capture an event that could happen at any imminent moment. The COOLPIX P3 and P4 make it easy to shoot movies with sound, with a choice of three modes offering up to 30fps performance. There s also a Time-lapse movie mode that uses pictures shot with the Interval timer shooting function to create a movie in which the action appears speeded up. Images can even be improved in-camera through the use of three innovative Nikon functions. Face-priority AF cleverly detects people s faces to achieve sharp focus on them, no matter where they happen to be located in the frame. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix helps users make red-eye a thing of the past. Detecting the annoying redeye effect that can sometimes occur in flash photography, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix provides automatic compensation for more flattering, natural-looking portraits in low light. There s also Nikon s unique D-Lighting function available in playback mode, which can improve underexposed images or shots taken with too much back light by creating a copy of an image with added light and detail wherever necessary and well-exposed areas left exactly as they were. EFFECTIVE PIXELS: IMAGE MODES: LENS: FOCUS RANGE (APPROX.) LCD MONITOR: STORAGE MEDIA: MOVIE: VIBRATION REDUCTION (VR): CAPTURE MODES: BUILT-IN FLASH: INTERFACE: WIRELESS CAPABILITY: POWER REQUIREMENTS: BATTERY LIFE (APPROX.): DIMENSIONS (WXHXD): WEIGHT (APPROX.): 8.1 million 8M (3264), 5M (2592), 3M (2048), PC (1024), TV (640), 3:2 (3264) 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor; mm (35mm [135] format equivalent to approx mm); f/ ; 7 elements in 6 groups; Digital zoom: up to 4x 30cm (1 ft.) to infinity ( ), 4cm (1.6 in.) to infinity ( ) in Macro mode 2.5-inch type, 150,000-dot TFT LCD monitor with brightness adjustment Internal memory (approx. 23MB), SD memory card With sound: TV movie (640) at 30fps, Small size (320) at 30fps, Smaller size (160) at 30fps; Without sound: Time-lapse movie at 30fps, lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction) Normal available Lens shift VR (Normal/Active/Off) 1) Single, 2) Continuous (approx. 1.8fps), 3) Multi-shot 16 (approx. 1.7fps, only available at image size 8M), 4 '5fUltra HS (approx. 30fps up to 100 shots), 5 '5f5 shot buffer (approx. 1.8fps), 6 '5fInterval timer shooting Range: Approx m/1 ft. 4 in ft. 1 in. (W), Approx m/1 ft. 4 in. 6 ft. 7 in. (T); Flash modes: Auto, Auto with Red-eye Reduction (In- Camera Red-Eye Fix), Flash Cancel, Anytime Flash and Slow sync. P3: IEEE b/g, USB, Audio Video output P4: USB, Audio Video output P3: IEEE b/g, wireless range up to 30m (depending on environment) Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL5 (supplied), AC Adapter EH-62A (optional) 200 shots with EN-EL5 (based on CIPA standard) Approx. 92 x 61 x 31mm (3.6 x 2.4 x 1.2 in.) excluding projections 170g (5.6 oz.) without battery and SD memory card Vibration Reduction The most exciting element of the COOLPIX P3 and P4, is the innovative VR (Vibration Reduction) capability. Originally developed for Nikon SLRs, lens shift VR capability is available in two modes that compensate for camera movement to realize a shooting experience akin to shooting at shutter speeds three stops faster. The VR comes in two modes, Normal and Active. In Normal mode, VR compensate for minor movement that may occurs during handshake while Active mode compensate for more pronounce movement for example when the photographer is on a moving platform. VR also works in Movie taking mode, which enable to user to capture less shaky video footage

9 FEATURED PRODUCT - LIGHTING SYSTEM FEATURED PRODUCT -COOLPIX PREMIUMS ARE YOU A PROUD OWNER OF NIKON COOLPIX CAMERAS OR DO YOU HAVE THE INTENTION OF GETTING ONE? Well read on as we will introduce you to Nikon state of art technology that are being implemented into our line of COOLPIX Cameras. Topic covered includes: VR (Vibration Reduction) Get to know how Nikon s Vibration Reduction technology is able to assist you in getting that perfect shot in low light or shaky condition

10 FEATURED PRODUCT -COOLPIX PREMIUMS FEATURED PRODUCT -COOLPIX PREMIUMS NIKON WIRELESS IMAGE TRANSFER Nikon is the first to launch WIFI enabled compact digital cameras. Currently available are the Nikon Coolpix P1, P2, P3, P4 and S6. You will be able to learn the convenience of Nikon Wireless Image Transfer that allow you to capture and display immediately on your WIFI enabled workstation or get your image printed out wirelessly from a PictBridge enabled printer with the optional PD-10 Wireless Printer Adapter. IMAGE INNOVATIONS Learn more about the in-camera functions such as D-Lighting, Face Priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix that are built into Nikon COOLPIX cameras that provide enhancement to your image. PictMotion by muvee See the new innovation in Digital Camera. PictMotion by muvee enables Coolpix S5 and S6 to play back images and movie with beautiful transitional effects and background music all from your camera. For more information, visit :

11 FEATURED PRODUCT - LENSES FEATURED PRODUCT - LENSES AF-S VR MICRO- NIKKOR 105MM F/2.8G IF-ED RCP S$1,500 TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the AF-S VR Micro- Nikkor 105mm f/2.8g IF-ED, the world s first macro lens equipped with Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and Vibration Reduction (VR) systems. It offers a host of Nikon's advanced optical features and technologies such as Nano Crystal Coat, Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass and Internal Focusing (IF). The AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8g IF-ED is engineered for use with both Nikon DX format digital and 35mm film SLR cameras. This lens has been developed to meet user demand for a 105mm macro lens equipped with SWM, IF and VR system. The SWM ensures fast and quiet autofocusing and quick switching between autofocus and manual operation. The IF system also offers a non-rotating front lens element that facilitates the use of circular polarizing filters. With the enhanced VR system (VRII), photographers can capture sharp images at shutter speeds approximately 4 stops* slower [at near infinity to 3m (1/30x reproduction ratio)] than would otherwise be possible. The negative effects of camera shake are greatly amplified in close-up photography and can affect image sharpness greatly. The incorporation of Nikon VR technology in a Micro-Nikkor lens expands versatility by, for the first time, providing the sharpness benefits of VR and improving hand-held close-up photography. What s more, the VRII offers stable viewfinder image for easy frame composition even at high magnification shooting. In addition, the AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8g IF-ED also features proven Nikon optical technologies such as the Nano Crystal Coat, which drastically reduces flare, and one ED glass element that minimizes chromatic aberration, to provide higher resolution and high-contrast images. The AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8g IF-ED ensures high-quality and high-performance for all photographers from amateurs to professionals. MAJOR FEATURES The world s first macro lens offering reproduction ratios of up to 1:1 and featuring the Nikon Vibration Reduction System (VRII) allows high-quality handheld macro shooting. The VRII function minimizes camera shake by offering the equivalent of a shutter speed 4 stops* faster at near infinity to 3m (1/30x reproduction ratio) shooting. The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) enables fast and quiet autofocusing, and quick switching between autofocus and manual operation. Nikon ED glass element minimizes chromatic aberration. Outstanding Nikkor optical performance makes it suitable for photography with both Nikon digital and 35mm film SLR cameras. Nikon Nano Crystal Coat further ensures superior optical performance by virtually eliminating internal lens element reflections. FOCAL LENGTH MAXIMUM APERTURE MINIMUM APERTURE LENS CONSTRUCTION PICTURE ANGLE ATTACHMENT SIZE DIMENSIONS (APPROX.) WEIGHT (APPROX.) INCLUDED ACCESSORIES OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES The Internal Focus (IF) design provides a constant lens length and eliminates rotation of the front lens element, facilitating the use of circular polarizing filters and the Nikon Close-up Speedlight Commander Kit R1C1 and Nikon Close-up Speedligjt Remote Kit R1. 1:1 of maximum reproduction ratio and up to 31cm closest focusing distance Up to 154mm working distance (at near 1:1) Two focus modes are available M/A and M The nine-blade rounded diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural. ø62mm filter attachment size 105mm (Picture angle, when used with Nikon DX format digital SLRs is equivalent to a 157.5mm on a 35mm format SLR) f/2.8 f/32 14 elements in 12 groups (with 1 ED glass element and 1 Nano Crystal Coatdeposited lens element) [15 20 with Nikon DX format] 62mm 83 x 116mm (3.3 x 4.5 in.) 720g (25.4 oz.) 62mm Snap-on front lens cap (LC-62), Rear lens cap (LF-1), Bayonet hood (HB-38), Flexible lens pouch (CL-1020) 62mm screw-in filters, AF-S Teleconverters TC-14E II/17E II/20E II (Autofocus operation is not possible. VR and AE functions are available.) 18 19

12 FEATURED PRODUCT - NIKON VIEW PRO FEATURED PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY - NIKON EXPEDITION VIEW PRO Nikon View Pro HIGH SPEED AND VERSATILE PERFORMANCE WITH IMAGE MANAGEMENT AND BROWSING TO SPEED UP AND IMPROVE THE PROFESSIONAL DIGITAL WORKFLOW COMPATIBLE WITH CAPTURE NX AND OTHER SOFTWARE. Nikon View Pro s browser layout and speed tools make digital photography more efficient for highspeed image viewing and versatile image selection and handling. Of special interest is Nikon View Pro s ability to be used to quickly check image composition, focusing sharpness, exposure and other file characteristics. Nikon View Pro can also be used to assist in organizing and storing images, and can add IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) data to individual images and batches of images. With the addition of Nikon View Pro, Nikon s role in the professional workflow reaches new levels of convenience and high performance. Beginning with each photographer s creative vision, the workflow moves through Camera to NEF*1 to Nikon View Pro to Capture NX. Nikon software and hardware products enhance each photographer s personal creativity with performance that will enable higher productivity. Blended into the professional workflow, Nikon View Pro can make the process of handling large quantities of images for selection and editing more seamless; this will be especially beneficial for photographers that shoot large quantities and need to quickly examine and organize selected images. Nikon View Pro Major Features Fast image display Speed up performance with multi-function "Action key" IPTC data editing function Convenient display modes Marking FTP* data transfer New performance includes: Faster loading of thumbnails, faster NEF preview plus exclusive high speed processing, Action Keys, High Speed Image Management, IPTC Editing Performance, Versatile Display Modes for Image Comparison, Image Marking and FTP Transfer Compatibility For more information, please visit: TOKYO Nikon Corporation is pleased to introduce the versatile new Nikon View Pro software. The new Nikon View Pro is designed to make viewing and handling of large quantities of images faster, and with versatility to make the professional workflow more productive. As digital files grow in size and quality, professional photographers will appreciate Nikon View Pro s enhanced image display, faster browsing of NEF RAW files, and the ease of editing IPTC information, all in a conveniently fast workflow

13 FEATURED PRODUCT - CAPTURE NX PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION ADVANCING FULL-SCALE DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING AND EDITING TOKYO Nikon Corporation announces the new digital image editing software, Capture NX, featuring Nik Software, Inc. s patented U Point technology. This new product, evolving from previously released Nikon Capture 4 software, gives digital photographers more powerful tools complimented by simple and visual operation for exploring NEF, JPEG and TIFF files potential for optimizing images. Advancing the world-acclaimed Nikon Capture concept, Capture NX releases not only the latest powers of Nikon s Electronic Format (NEF) files; for the first time, it makes image processing of JPEG and TIFF files created by other cameras elegant and easy enough for any photographer to implement*. A user-friendly interface makes image editing more visually intuitive and provides access to all necessary enhancement tools. Nikon s legendary expertise in creating innovative digital cameras and images has expanded the potential for high quality digital photography which will soon be complimented by Capture NX with its technology to maximize the potential for each compatible image. With performance, versatility and convenience it is the perfect match to any Nikon digital camera, as well as for any other camera brand that produces JPEG and TIFF files. Among some of Capture NX software s highlights are the following major features. *Some Capture NX functions apply to NEF files only. For more information, visit MAJOR FEATURES New U Point Technology Sophisticated Edit List Powerful Image Browser Improved batch processing Selective tools Color Management control Advancing the convenience of Nikon Capture 4 Compatible with the Nikon Total Imaging System 22 23

14 COMPARE AND CHOOSE PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION COOLPIX L2 COOLPIX L3 COOLPIX L4 COOLPIX S5 COOLPIX S6 COOLPIX P3 COOLPIX P4 Price Price Price Price Price Price Price SGD$499 SGD$399 SGD$299 SGD$649 SGD$749 SGD$799 SGD$699 Megapixels Megapixels Megapixels Megapixels Megapixels Megapixels Megapixels Built in Memory Built in Memory Built in Memory Built in Memory Built in Memory Built in Memory Built in Memory 23MB 23MB 10MB 21MB 20MB 23MB 23MB Optical Zoom / Digital Zoom Optical Zoom Optical Zoom Optical Zoom Optical Zoom Optical Zoom Optical Zoom 3x Optical Zoom(6.3mm- 19.2mm) / 4x Digital Zoom 3x Optical Zoom (6.3mm- 19.2mm) / 4x Digital Zoom 3x Optical Zoom (6.3mm- 18.9mm) / 4x Digital Zoom 3x Optical Zoom (5.8mm 17.4mm) / 4x Digital Zoom 3x Optical Zoom (5.8mm 17.4mm) / 4x Digital Zoom 3.5x Optical Zoom (7.5mm 26.3mm) / 4x Digital Zoom 3.5x Optical Zoom (7.5mm 26.3mm) / 4x Digital Zoom Viewfinder Viewfinder Viewfinder Viewfinder Viewfinder Viewfinder Viewfinder Macro Capability Macro Capability Macro Capability Macro Capability Macro Capability Macro Capability Macro Capability 10cm 10cm 4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm Movie Recording Mode Movie Recording Mode Movie Recording Mode Movie Recording Mode Movie Recording Mode Movie Recording Mode Movie Recording Mode With sound TV Mode (640x 30fps/15fps) Small Size 30fps/15fps) Smaller Size With sound TV Mode (640x 30fps/15fps) Small Size 30fps/15fps) Smaller Size Without sound TV Mode (640x 15fps) Small Size 15fps) Smaller Size With sound and evr (Electronic Vibration Reduction) TV Mode (640x 30fps) Small Size 30fps/15fps) Smaller Size PictMotion Time Lapse 30fps With sound and evr (Electronic Vibration Reduction) TV Mode (640x 30fps) Small Size 30fps/15fps) Smaller Size PictMotion Time Lapse 30fps With sound and Lens Shift (Vibration Reduction) TV Mode (640x 30fps) Small Size 30fps) Smaller Size 30fps) Time Lapse 30fps With sound and Lens Shift (Vibration Reduction) TV Mode (640x 30fps) Small Size 30fps) Smaller Size Time Lapse 30fps ISO ISO ISO ISO ISO ISO ISO Auto Gain up to ISO 200 Auto Gain up to ISO 200 Auto Gain up to ISO 200 Auto Gain to ISO 200 Selectable 50, 100, 200, 400 Auto Gain to ISO 200 Selectable 50, 100, 200, 400 Auto Gain to ISO 200 Selectable 50, 100, 200, 400 Auto Gain to ISO 200 Selectable 50, 100, 200, 400 Shutter Shutter Shutter Shutter Shutter Shutter Shutter Auto (4 1/1500 second) Auto (4 1/1500 second) Auto (4 1/3000 second) Auto (2 1/500 second) Auto (2 1/500 second) Auto ( 8 1/2000 second) Auto ( 8 1/2000 second) LCD Display LCD Display LCD Display LCD Display LCD Display LCD Display LCD Display ,000 dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment ,000 dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment ,000 dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment ,000 dot Wide Viewing-angle TFT LCD with brightness adjustment ,000 dot Wide Viewing-angle TFT LCD with brightness adjustment ,000 dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment ,000 dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment AF Assist Illuminator AF Assist Illuminator AF Assist Illuminator AF Assist Illuminator AF Assist Illuminator AF Assist Illuminator AF Assist Illuminator Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Battery Life Battery Life Battery Life Battery Life Battery Life Battery Life Battery Life 180 shots with LR6(AA Alkaline) or Approx. 320 with EN-MH1 Rechargeable Ni-MH batteries, or Approx 600 shots with Lithium batteries 200 shots with LR6(AA Alkaline) or Approx. 330 with EN-MH1 Rechargeable Ni-MH batteries, or Approx 630 shots with Lithium batteries 250 shots with LR6(AA Alkaline) or Approx. 450 with EN-MH1 Rechargeable Ni-MH batteries, or Approx 600 shots with Lithium batteries 210 shots with EN-EL8 200 shots with EN-EL8 200 shots with EN-EL5 200 shots with EN-EL5 Size / Weight Size / Weight Size / Weight Size / Weight Size / Weight Size / Weight Size / Weight 91 x 60.5 x 26mm / 120g Special Features 91 x 60.5 x 26mm / 120g Special Features 86.5 x 60.5 x 34.5mm / 115g Special Features 93 x 59 x 20mm / 135g Special Features x 60 x 21mm / 140 Special Features 92 x 61 x 31mm / 170g Special Features 92 x 61 x 31mm / 170g Typical Kazak nomads Yurt Special Features PictMotion by muvee PictMotion by muvee WIFI IEEE802.11b/g Adjustable Aperture WIFI IEEE802.11b/g Adjustable Aperture Support Standards Support Standards Support Standards Support Standards Support Standards Support Standards Support Standards PictBridge PictBridge PictBridge PictBridge ImageLink PictBridge ImageLink PictBridge PictBridge 24 25

15 PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS WATER IN MOTION Text and Pictures By Steven Yee Pui Chung B.Eng(Mech), FRPS, FPSS, FPSM, Hon.FKCC, AFIAP In this second part of a series of techniques shared by Steven Yee, he shall share with you the tips on how to capture that motion of the water. Steven Yee is the instructor for the Nikon D50 and D70/D70s workshop which he conducts at The Photographic Society of Singapore. More of his works can be found on 3-D Matrix metering, Daylight White Balance, ISO100, Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter speed 1 second, Aperture f25, D2X, 18-70mm DX lens. In this picture, the flow of the water is interrupted by the rocks which results in the turbulent flow effect. If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water. (Loran Eisely, The Immense Journey, 1957) No doubt about it, some of the most stunning images ever captured has some elements of water in it. Everyday, we get in touch with water. It can be the flow of your bath tub tap, or the fountain that is in front of your office building. If we go for our travel holiday, we will also chance upon the gentle streams, cascading waterfalls, beautiful fountains or even the strong gushes of waves hitting the shoreline. Somehow, most of us would probably ask some of our family members to pose a shot with the water feature. We often overlook the fact that with a magical touch of your play of exposure, you can turn the scene into a magical world of fantasy, with that blur motion of the flowing water. It may sound daunting for some to believe that they are able to capture such splendid images which the professional photographers capture with ease. With a little bit of effort and experimentation with the following tips, you are on your way to getting that very first professional looking shot of water in motion. The secret behind getting the water blurred in motion lies in the shutter speed. When we do photography of water in motion, we have 2 choices, either to freeze the water with a fast shutter speed of at least 1/125 or blur its motion with a shutter speed of less than 1 second. Usually, we would like to capture the motion blur of the water. For the benefit of those who missed the previous issue, here is a recap. As you look through your viewfinder (for DSLR users) or your LCD screen (for Coolpix users), you may find something appearing: 125 f3.5 it means that you have a shutter speed of 1/125 with aperture f f22 it means that you have a shutter speed of 15 seconds with aperture f22 The clue here is f22 is a smaller aperture than f3.5, which means that with f22, you will have a slower shutter speed as compared to f3.5. Smaller aperture allows less light to enter the lens, hence you will need more exposure time in the form of a slower shutter speed. To clarify, 1/125 is a faster shutter speed compared to 15 seconds. For the DSLR users, you can set aperture size easily to f22 with the Aperture Priority Mode. For the Coolpix users, as with all compact digital cameras, your limitation lies in the fact that your smallest aperture is likely to be f8 or f11. The smaller the aperture, the slower the shutter speed. If you can understand this fundamental, you are on your way to getting the image done. To capture that motion blur of the water, your target shutter speed is 1 seconds or slower. We shall discuss on how to get it done: Setting your camera to Aperture Priority Mode, adjust your aperture to a small one until the /continue on page 20 27

16 PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS 3-D Matrix metering, Daylight White Balance, ISO100, Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter speed 1 second, Aperture f25, D2X, 18-70mm DX lens. I chanced upon a flowing stream during a trip in China. We asked the driver to stop the car and explore possible angles. There are not many rocks or contours in the water. Shooting the water flow alone will be quite boring. In the end, I decided to use the twigs as a frame effect to complement the flow of the water. 3-D Matrix metering, Daylight White Balance, ISO100, Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter speed 1 second, Aperture f25, D2X, mm f2.8 ED lens. When we shoot the flow of a waterfall, it is good that we take into consideration the flow direction of the water. A straight cascading water will not be as interesting as the above, where the water flow gets interrupted by the rock formation, which results in a more interesting flow pattern. camera meter reads 1 second for shutter speed. Sometimes, the lighting might be a bit too strong and it is impossible to achieve 1 second. You can overcome this problem by setting your ISO to the lowest, putting a piece of Neutral Density filter or Polarisor filter onto your lens, which will help allow less light to enter the lens, hence resulting in slower shutter speed. Setting your camera to Shutter Priority Mode, adjust your shutter speed to 1 second. Just a warning, if you use this method, you have to ensure that the aperture does not blink or show Hi, which means over exposure. If you have over exposure, you may like to set your ISO to the lowest and put on the Neutral Density filter or Polarisor filter. Setting your camera to Manual Mode, adjust the aperture and shutter speed on your own with the aim of reaching 1 second for the shutter speed. Use a lowest ISO, with the Neutral Density filter or the Polarisor filter if need be. Usually, you may end up using settings like 1 f22 at ISO100 or ISO200 (subject to differing lighting conditions) with the Polarisor filter if you want to shoot the water in motion blur in the day time. For the DSLR users, it is not be a problem for you to set the aperture to f22 with most lenses. For the Coolpix users, your limitation of f8 or f11 being the smallest aperture will mean that it is quite hard to achieve the 1 second shutter speed with your compact digital camera. In your case, you may set your aperture to f8 or f11, use a lowest ISO, add the Neutral Density filter or Polarisor filter (with the Cokin filter attachment for compact camera), which may probably give you reading like 8 f11 (subject to differing lighting conditions). This setting may get you some degree of water in motion blur. As the saying goes, better than not trying

17 PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS PRACTICAL SESSION Picture (LEFT) is taken without the polarisor filter at the Singapore Bird Park. Picture (RIGHT) is taken with the polarisor filter. Note the elimination of the reflection of the sky on the leaves. A more saturated green is achieved. The filter also helps to slow down the shutter speed. 3-D Matrix metering, Daylight White Balance, ISO100, Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter speed 1 second, Aperture f25, D2X, 18-70mm DX lens. These branches held on stubbornly against the flow of the water and not washed away. The branches are swaying with the flow. To capture motion blur of the water but with some degree of sharpness for the branch is technically challenging. Hence, I decided to try the 1 second shutter speed. It works! At shutter speed slower than 1 second, we will definitely need a tripod as well as a cable release or a remote control. If your camera does not support the use of the cable release or the remote control, you may like to activate the self timer in the camera to trigger the shot. If at all possible, avoid pressing the shutter release button for such slow shutter speed, even if you have a steady tripod. You may like to avoid any form of camera shake if possible. Another thing to share with you is the degree of motion blur of the water. Regardless with 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds or slower shutter speed, the water will be equally blurred. The cause of concern here is as the shutter speed gets too slow, you may end up with other subjects blurred such as the moving leaves due to the wind etc. Hence, if you purely want the water in motion blur with the rest of the image as sharp as possible, you may like to settle for just the 1 second shutter speed with a decent tripod. Things to look out for if you want to shoot the water in motion blur: Look out for the direction of flow of the water. Avoid the angle where the water is lit by the strong sunlight. This will cause a white burnt patch in the image. Look out for complementing subjects, such as leaves, rocks, anything that is stationary. You will need something stationary to contrast against the moving water. With the above in mind, you can use this technique and tips in your search for the water feature. Try some of the local places such as the Bird Park, Zoo or Botanic Garden which has some nice water features. These can be good practice targets for your future photography expeditions to waterfall infested places like China s Jiuzhaigou etc. Centre-weighted metering, Daylight White Balance, ISO400, Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter speed 1/80, Aperture f6.3, D2X, mm VR lens. Taken at the Singapore Zoo. With a faster shutter speed, the motion of the water is freezed and looks just like any other ordinary snapshot. COMING NEXT... Coming up in the next issue, Steven Yee shall share with you how to get great shots with the use of reflections. He shall explore the properties of reflection, the tips and creative angles that you can adopt for your practice. Look out for it. Centre-weighted metering, Daylight White Balance, ISO100, Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter speed 1 second, Aperture f34, D2X, mm VR lens. With the 1 second shutter speed, the motion of the water is blurred and the overall look and feel of the image is changed, for the better

18 PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS WORKSHOP FOR PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS D70/D70s/D50 DIGITAL SLR CONDUCTED BY: Mr Steven Yee, an award winning photographer, is the youngest in the world to be conferred the Fellowship of The Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain (FRPS) and the Photographic Society of Singapore (FPSS) in 2003 at the age of 23. He shall share with the participants the different ways to harness the potential of the D70/D70s. HIGHLIGHTS OF D70/D70s/D50 WORKSHOP The features of the D70/D70s Expectations -- Difference with the Coolpix, advanced features that stand out The specifications in brief Exposure in brief (Quick into to shutter speed and aperture) Using the Program Mode Quick intro to P, A, S, M Metering settings Using the Custom modes Survival tips to get good images -- Steven Yee's Workflow for freezing objects Setting the ASA and White Balance The settings in the menu Focusing How to hold the camera File types, compression and sizes Camera maintenance (Cleaning the CCD, do's and don'ts, maintenance of CF card) What to do if you want to change lenses Having that ideal set of equipment 32 To apply for Digital Workshop for D70 Camera, please contact Diana or Kellyn DID: Fax: pss1950@singnet.com.sg Operating Hours: Mon to Fri: 2pm 10pm Sat to Sun: 12pm 6pm Closed on Public Holiday VENUE: The Digital Workshop will be conducted at: The Photographic Society of Singapore 30 Selegie Road, Selegie Arts Centre Building Level 2, Singapore NOTE: - Course Fee: SIN$20 - Course Duration : Approx. 3 hours - Participants must bring along their D70/D70s/D50 for the workshop. 33

19 FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER:DAVID TAY DAVID P.C. TAY Man with a vision Film to Digital TEXT BY STEVEN P C YEE Enter the Dragon: one of Mr Tay 's action shots at the Chingay Parade with artificial illumination. David Tay s first shot with his D2X with mm f2.8vr lens captured a performer taking a bite before the Chingay Parade at just the right moment. David P C Tay is no stranger to the photographic circles, both locally and inter nationally. A distinguished photographer with many awards to his credit, he is one of Singapore s few very well known photographers whom I have come to admire and respect. For all his wealth of experience, he is a humble man with a willingness to share his vast knowledge, a trait that many of us younger photographers are grateful for. Besides being an established practitioner in the art of photography, he is also a keen promoter of the art. Some of the major international photographic events that have benefited from his invaluable leadership are the World Photo Congress (1982), World Camera Show (1995, 1997), Photo & Imaging Asia (2001, 2004, 2005), and ClickArt: World Meet of Photojournalists (2004). Mr Tay is also the brainchild behind the Selegie Arts Centre set up in The Centre is now In high spirits: a Japanese performer captured at the height of action during his dance item

20 FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID TAY FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER: HUI MAN YAN the home of The Photographic Society of Singapore (PSS), and the focal point of photography in our Republic. Despite his busy schedule as a Chief Executive Officer of SPH Magazines, he has given Singapore photography its much-needed support. He has served the PSS since 1975, and has been its President since 1990 the longest serving PSS President todate. As a practitioner of the art, David Tay is widely known for his creativity. He was the first Singapore photographer to be awarded the coveted Cultural Medallion in 1982 for his artistic achievements and contributions to photography. His talent was also recognised by The Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain and the International Federation of Photographic Art which have awarded him the Fellowship (FRPS) and Honorary Excellence (Hon EFIAP) distinctions respectively. Mr Tay s passion in photography started in 1960, since then, he has always encourage youngsters to scale greater heights in the field of photography and is ever ready to give them assistance and guidance. Although Mr Tay has written many articles over the last decade on the benefits and trends of digital technology changing the landscape of photography, surprisingly, he himself had resisted using digital cameras. He was aware of the convenience and advantages they offered, but stayed faithful to his Hassablad and Leicas. It is perhaps a case of old habits die hard. Woman of mystery: vibrant colours of the costume worn by a performer serve to emphasise her dark mysterious eyes. Australia late February. In this issue of the Nikon magazine, you'll be able to see some of his pictures he took at the Chingay Parade and in Australia. I am certain you will enjoy them as much as I did. Three months ago, he acquired a D2X with mm and 15-55mm lenses. He had his first try with the new toys at this year s Chingay Parade. Mr Tay himself was so pleased with the results from his digital SLR that he abandoned his conventional cameras on his vacation in Southern 36 37

21 FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID TAY FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER: SCOTT WOODWARD Human leading animals or is it the other way round? Back lighting was used to good effect. The Gap: tourists admiring the panoramic view at Southern Australia. 38 Rushing for food: a peak action shot of a bird in water getting to the food ahead of the others. 39

22 FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST EVENTS MODERN LANDSCAPE THE WINNING ENTRY OF FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST Send in your best Mammal shot and WIN a Nikon Coolpix S5 Digital Camera worth S$649 plus a chance to have your work PHOTO: SCOTT WOODWARD featured in our next issue. Contest is open to all Nikon users. To participate, fill in the form and attach it with your entry FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST - MAMMAL Name: Age: Male Female Address: Contact No. (HP): Contact No. (O): Closing Date: 15 June 2006 Send entry to: FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST - MAMMAL TITLE: RAFFLES CITY WINNER WONG CHEK POH Title of Photo: Photo Taken by (Model & Setting/Mode): Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd 80 Anson Road #10-01/02 Fuji Xerox Towers Singapore Photo Taken by (Model & Setting/Mode) Nikon D100, 10.5mm fisheye, f7.1, 1/200 sec TERMS & CONDITIONS Eligibility Open to all Nikon users residing in Singapore except Nikon staff; photo must be taken by Nikon camera only Each photographer is only allowed one entry with one photo Only prints in 8X10 size will be accepted or send to focuspc@nikon-asia.com. For more information, please visit: Print submitted are not returnable Nikon will not be held for entries lost or damaged Nikon reserves the rights to use any photograph entered for publicity and other purposes The entries will be judged on their relevance to the theme, creativity and overall technical quality The winner will be notified by post and his/her name will be published in the next issue of FOCUS 40 41

23 EVENTS EVENTS NIKON PROSPERITY DINNER VENUE: The Fullerton Hotel DATE: 10 Frebruary 2006 The year 2005 was a good year for Nikon and all these were made possible with the kind cooperation and support from our dealers and business partners. In appreciation of our strategic partners, we held our Prosperity Dinner at the Fullerton Hotel. Prior to dinner, most guests were busy gambling with chocolate chips while the others were either at the Chinese Calligraphy corner or having their fortune told. During dinner, the guests were entertained by dancers, singers and games. We ended the night with the God of Prosperity and our MD made their rounds, conferring luck to all for the rest of the year

24 EVENTS EVENTS 44 45

25 EVENTS EVENTS IT SHOW 2006 VENUE: Suntec Concention Hall DATE: 9-12 March 2006 Being the largest Digital, IT and Consumer Electronics Exhibition in town, this year they clocked a record high of 630,000 visitors during the 4 days. like hotcakes judging from our sales performance, all thanks to our representing dealer, Ables Foto s for their sterling sales efforts. With the launched of several new models, our latest L, S & P series were moving 46 47

26 EVENTS Q & A CONTEST WIN BILLINGHAM CAMERA BAG worth $290 Simply send this completed coupon with your answers to: FOCUS Q & A Contest, Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd 80 Anson Road #10-01/02 Fuji Xerox Towers Singapore by 15 June 2006 ANSWER: Q1. Q2. Q3. Q4. NAME: NRIC: *Chain SPONSORED BY M S COLOR not included??? Questions: Q1. How many Vibration Reduction Modes do Coolpix P3 and P4 have? 1) 2 2) 3 3) 4 4) 5 Q2. How many shots can the Coolpix L2 and L4 take with Lithium Batteries? 1) 300 2) 400 3) 500 4) 600 Q3. Coolpix S5 and S6 have a wide viewing angle LCD Monitor. What is the viewing angle? 1) 100 2) 120 3) 150 4) 170 Q4. The new AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8g IF-ED is using the new enhanced VR system (VRII). How many stops slower does it allows the photographer to shoot? 1) 1 Stop 2) 2 Stops 3) 3 Stops 4) 4 Stops ADDRESS: TELEPHONE (HP/O/R): WINNER OF FOCUS 10 TH ISSUE Q&A CONTEST Name : Mr Koh Pei Chen NRIC : SXXX4125/B ANSWER: Q1: 3 Q2: 1 Q3: 3 Q4: 3 48 TERMS & CONDITIONS: This contest is opened to all readers except employees of Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd Prize must be taken as provided and is neither transferable nor exchange for cash Winner will be notified by post. 49

27 EVENTS EVENTS 50 51

28 COMING EVENTS/CONTACTS EVENTS PRESS RELEASE 10 FEBRUARY 2006 PHOTOGRAPHERS GOING PLACES: SINGAPORE YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHER AWARD OFFERS AN IDEAL STEPPING STONE FOR YOUNG PHOTO BUFFS Imagine getting started on photography at the tender age of 9! That was exactly what Steven Yee did. Today, at the age of 26, he is a young, accomplished photographer and Honorary Secretary of The Photographic Society of Singapore. He has also secured honours and distinctions with The Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain and the International Federation of Photographic Art among others. Having held a few solo exhibitions and his work published in several photo publications, Steven also instructs at PSS and photography workshops. However, there are not many others like him. In fact, young and zealous photographers who venture to pursue their passion are hard to come by. In this time and age where paper chase is rampant, parents feel the pressure to conform and encourage their children to focus on academic performance. Recounts Darren Soh, 29, full-time independent photographer who began exploring photography at 13, Initially, my mother was not exceptionally supportive of the fact that I had an honours degree and decided to be a photographer instead of trying for a real job. Thankfully of course, she is now one of Darren s biggest fans. Darren s works have been frequently featured in international magazines such as DestinAsian and TIME magazine. Many may also have seen his works in numerous solo and joint photo exhibitions held in the past 7 years. Amongst the many accolades he has received are International Photography Awards Architecture Category (Honorable Mention) and Commonwealth Photographic Awards (Highly Commended) An internationally-acclaimed photographer who is testament to the fact that photography could be more than a passion is none other than Russel Wong. With a portfolio that includes celebrities ranging from political leaders to international superstars, Russel started photography at 18. As a business undergraduate at the University of Oregon, he catapulted into a photographic career unexpectedly when his photo of world record miler Sebastian Coe made the cover for Track & Field News in the United States. A self-confessed crazy track nut, Wong had cycled to a Sunday morning talk in the park by Coe, shooting him on a roll of Kodachrome and a $160 manual Topcon camera a gift from his father who s a fervent amateur photographer. A broad look at Wong s career and development over 25 years discloses a practice that is marked by a confluence of opportunities, resourcefulness, obsessive drive and focus, a lethal combination of strong commitment, tenacity and relentlessness

29 EVENTS EVENTS In the same league but of a different genre, Lee Tiah Khee, Chief Photographer of Lianhe Zaobao also started photography at a tender age. In fact, he began without a camera! Due to disadvantaged family circumstances, Lee used to borrow cameras from his friends to participate in the activities of his school s photo club. The ultimate confidence booster came when he won the gold medal of a national student photography competition (junior section) at the age of 14. Soon after, he participated in even more contests, working & studying part-time to finance his hobby. At 17, he was awarded Overall Best in the ASEAN Photo Salon. Little did he know that from hobby to passion, photography more specifically, photojournalism became his vocation. I m inquisitive by nature about things and people around me. Subjects or scenes with a human touch always excite me and I love the challenge of capturing the mood and character of the people involved. Truly, photojournalism is one of the best ways to do this, especially if well-framed photographs are taken at the right place and at the right time. Sharing his vision on the future of photography in Singapore, SYPA Steering Committee Chairman Kwek Leng Joo said, A vibrant and cultured nation requires an open and active arts scene. Photography, the art that represents emotions and thoughts and a powerful medium for communication, ought to be promoted amongst the young. It is sad to note that young photographers only account for a very small percentage of the local photographic community. This is evident in major photo clubs which have an average of only 5 to 10 junior members. This is precisely why we were spurred to introduce the first-ever Singapore Young Photographer Award (SYPA). We hope to discover and nurture budding photographic talents and attract more youngsters to pursue photography. Projected to be given out bi-annually, SYPA aims to scout for photo talents between 13 and 25 years of age. Apart from winning attractive prizes of up to $5,000 cash, winners will be invited to photography enrichment courses and activities with mentorship by experienced photographers. This Award is an extension of the To Singapore with Love photo tribute celebrating the nation s 40 th birthday last year. The opening date for submission is Friday, 10 February 2006 and the closing date is 15 June All winning entries, as well as works of Steven Yee, Darren Soh, Russel Wong and Lee Tiah Khee will be displayed during the prize presentation ceremony-cum-exhibition in July. Darren believes that SYPA can be a very important step in the right direction in elevating photography to a professional level in Singapore. Other photographers interviewed also expressed delight and support for this inaugural Award which they feel will help to ignite the interest and passion in photography amongst the young. Log on to SYPA s official website at for more details and the entry form. For enquiries, please contact: Esther An at or esther@cdl.com.sg Kim Leon at or kimleon@cdl.com.sg 54 55

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