Pixel Magazine - 2nd May 2014

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ISSUE NO. 915

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INSIDE

New launches from nikon, MTF Triumph at the Pixel Indie 150 – Again!, Samsung launches the galaxy k zoom, another 4k camera from jvc and much more...

Economy Boost The UK Economy is predicted to grow by 3% in 2014.

According to data from the Centre of Economic Business Research (Cebr), UK economic growth will rise from an estimated 2.8%, to 3.1% later this year. In 2013 80% of the growth was down to consumer spending but this year the growth is expected to spread more evenly as business investment grows strongly by 10.1%.

Kodak Alaris appoints new CEO Ralf Gerbershagen has just finished his first month as CEO of Kodak Alaris, the company that sprung from the ashes of Kodak Co’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy last year. A full interview will be published in our next issue of In:Print, available in May.

The Big Interview Pixel interviews Simon Bennett, Managing Director of The Widescreen Centre to find out more about what their newly launched app means for business.

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Is this the rebirth of medium format?

Ricoh Imaging recently announced the launch of its new Pentax 645Z medium format (MF) camera, but will it be enough to revive a dwindling market?

Ricoh Imaging recently announced the launch of its new Pentax 645Z medium format (MF) camera, but will it be enough to revive a dwindling market?

Four years ago, Pentax launched its first digital MF camera in the brand’s home market of Japan – a good five years after plans for the model were first announced. While the camera became an instant hit in Japan and continues to be a market leader, it failed to make much of an impression against high performing and much cheaper DSLRs in the UK. So why would the new 645Z fare any better?

The truth is: medium format cameras can be expensive. But with bigger sensors and higher image quality than full frame, this can be expected – and compared with competition from the likes of the Hasselblad H5D-50C and Phase One IQ250 (£17,172 and £21,910 respectively), an overall price of video

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In addition to this, there is a high precision exposure control system, a more dependable shutter unit, a tiltable hi res LCD monitor, WiFi tansmission and burst shooting at approximately 3fps. The 654Z is also just as robust as its predecessor with a cold, dust and weather resistant body with 76 weather-seals.

According to Pentax, all of these features combine to produce a camera purpose-built for photographers who want precision, flexibility, creativity and top-level quality in their work – at a fraction of the price of competing MF cameras.

Ricoh will also be repositioning the D version to a price that is in line with top end DSLR products, making medium format more accessible than ever before.

£76,99.99 for the Pentax 645Z and 55mm F2.8 lens is a positive bargain.

The new model also boasts some features previously unseen on any MF digital camera, including a new CMOS image sensor with approximately 51.4 effective megapixels for super-highresolution images, plus a new stateof-the-art AF system with a live-view function.

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The 645Z will be available in June 2014.

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ALL-WEATHER CAM

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TRADE

THE INSIDER

Saying what you’re thinking and asking the difficult questions. Each week the Insider reports from the front line of our industry It’s funny how things turn out.

I mean, let’s take a look at the fortunes of Kodak. Not so very long ago, they had become the butt of many a trade joke. Having become largely invisible to many a consumer, the brand, I think it’s fair to say, had lost its way.

After holding such a strong position in the imaging world for so many years, Kodak very publicly took a huge turn for the worse, ended up going through chapter 11 in the states. Many called this bankruptcy in the UK as there

is no direct comparison on our shores. Actually what this did for the company was to allow it to streamline, sell off assets and give it a period of being ‘bullet proof’ to enable its survival.

Of course all of this is now history and since The UK Kodak Pension Plan (KPP) completed its acquisition of the Kodak Personalised Imaging and Document Imaging businesses

from Eastman Kodak Company in 2013, creating Kodak Alaris as we now know them, they now appear to be one of the strongest companies in our industry.

Just saying. Am I wrong?

Join me to discuss online at www.pixel.co.uk and also on the Pixel Magazine LinkedIn group.

Special Deals for LUMIX G Stockists Panasonic has announced a line up of LUMIX G promotions to boost sales on the shop floor.

Panasonic has announced a line up of LUMIX G promotions to boost sales on the shop floor. A spokesperson for the company told Pixel: “We hope to attract the consumer to the Lumix G system by highlighting the great lens line up we have to support the micro four thirds system. We also offer unique form factors which are different to DSLR (e.g. tilt EVF, or the compactness of GM1) and hope the consumers will be drawn to our unique technology benefits

through these promotions.”

These four special deals are running now until June 2 2014.

The promotions include a mixture of discounts and free items, including: A free battery grip and battery (worth £300) with the new DMC-GH4. Free

H-X025E lens, battery grip and battery (worth £800) with the DMC-GH3, and a free 20mm lens (worth £300) with the DMC-GX7.

“These are our best awarded products which have the biggest points of difference vs the other products in the market and can attract the consumers,” they added.

Release Date: April 2014 To find out more about stocking these products, visit www.panasonic.com

PhotoBox Appoints New UK MD PhotoBox has appointed a new UK Managing Director

Seasoned e-commerce and marketing specialist Robert May has taken the role of UK Managing Director at product printing company PhotoBox. His main focus at the company will

be to lead UK communication campaigns and oversee investment into mobile platforms and apps.

Mr May said: “I am delighted to be joining such an impressive

and innovative company that has revolutionised the online photo printing industry.”

John Lewis Keeps Shoppers Happy Department store John Lewis has retained its position as the UK’s top retailer in terms of satisfaction The claim has been made by a team from Verdict Research, who conducted a poll on 5,800 customers to find out which stores topped on satisfaction.

The team said that John Lewis achieved scores that far exceeded those of any other retailer, all of whom were judged on categories such as service and product quality.

Sarah Peters, Verdict’s lead analyst, explained: “John Lewis retained its title this year coming top overall as well as in its main product categories of homewares and electricals.”

Samsung Experience Stores

In partnership with Carphone Warehouse, Samsung has opened nine concept Samsung stores across the UK The launch follows the successful opening of 19 stores across Germany, Portugal, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Ireland in recent weeks. A full range of Samsung’s latest products will be available for customers to try out and buy, including mobiles, laptops, tablets and the new wearables collection – the Galaxy S5, Gear 2, Gear 2 Neo and Fit. The new stores are located in London (Oxford St), Newcastle, Bradford, Cardiff, Liverpool, Manchester and Bournemouth.

Simon Stanford, Vice President of IT & Mobile division, Samsung Electronics UK & Ireland said: “We will be able to offer a unique shopping experience tailored to our customers’ needs.”

PXS to Distribute ASAW Action Cams PXS Distribution has been appointed official UK distributor for the actionproof ISAW camera range.

The range of action cams is headed by ISAW’s flagship ISAW Extreme, which comes with a F/2.4 high precision lens and a 12 megapixel Sony Exmor sensor.

Distributors PXS seem to be doing well at the moment, having recently reported a 60% year-onyear growth following development within the Africa market.

“We are looking forward to opening up the UK market for the ISAW action camera range,” added Robert Hall, UK Sales Director for PXS Distribution.

“The ISAW Extreme, for example, offers great value for money and comes with a large range of accessories included. There are no additional hidden costs. We are confident that this range will be a winner.”

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PHOTO Sony firmware update Sony has released a firmware update for the QX10 and QX100 clip-on cameras for smartphones. The updates offer a few improvements.

These include: • Shutter button can now be used to pre-focus with a half press.

• Improvement on NFC performance – quicker connection to smartphones.

This firmware update follows a previous one earlier this year, which added manual control over ISO and real 1080p video recording instead of 1440x1080.

Customers can find the upgrade at www.sony.co.uk/support

World’s smallest, lightest DSLR – in white Canon has launched a limited edition white version of the EOS 100D. The new model is exactly the same as the original EOS 100D, which means it is still remarkably light, small, and still capable of shooting ISO 100 - 12,800 (expandable to 25,600) at up to four frames per second. The only difference is that this model is white, and it comes with a matching white EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens.

Current retailers stocking the white EOS include Harrods, Selfridges, DSG Travel, John Lewis and Jessops. Find out more at www. preferredsupplierlist.com.

RRP: £499 for both camera body and matching kit lens.

Another 4K Cam – from JVC JVC joins Micro Four Thirds standard with 4K prototypes More and more manufacturers are working with the Micro Four Thirds system, which was originally developed by Olympus and Panasonic. Now, JVC Kenwood has leapt on board with a new range of 4K prototypes designed to be compatible with the new system.

These were exhibited at the NAB in Las Vegas this year, and included: • 4K mini camera system • Interchangeable 4K compact handheld camera recorder • Interchangeable 4K shoulder

mount camera recorder.

With some companies holding back on 4K until the demand really shows, it’s worth asking if 4K really has a future.

Pixel put this question to Mushtak Kazi, Communications Manager at JVC to find out more. He said: “We already have Home Cinema projectors with 4K technology in this year’s product line up which have been well received by press and dealers. The sales figures show it is doing equally well in the consumer

Braun New Accessories Chargers, mics and lens caps now available

New camera accessories by Braun Photo Technik have been made available by official UK distributors Kenro.

The new Braun TopMic 119 is a small shotgun style microphone designed to fit onto a hot shoe. It records in stereo and is suitable for use on most video cameras, making it a

versatile addon for camera retailers selling DSLRs. RRP: £42.78 The Braun 1 for All Switch is a high quality universal charger with an LCD display and the capability to charge both lithium-ion batteries and electrical devices via a

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USB port. RRP: £22.26.

The Braun Professional Lens Caps are available in nine sizes ranging from 49-82mm. They promise to protect lenses from scratches, dirt and water, and come with an easy clip attachment.

RRP: Between £3.36 and £6.24.

For further information call Kenro’s head office on 01793 615836 or visit our website www.kenro.co.uk

Nikon has launched the CoolPix S810c After failing to wow consumers with its previous compact cameras powered by Android, Nikon CoolPix has launched a new model: the CoolPix S810c.

It remains to be seen whether this model will do any better.

This new compact camera is geared towards users who want to share high quality content immediately. It is being marketed as a premium model that surpasses smartphones in terms of specs but maintains sharing tools such as built

in WiFi, social media apps and direct access to Google+ and Google Drive for unlimited cloud space.

Product Manager Hiro Sebata told Pixel: “Since we initially launched an Android camera, we’ve had some valuable feedback that has played a vital role in developing the Nikon COOLPIX S810c. The biggest differentiator for the connected consumer is the 12x zoom in a compact format, plus the camera now works with the

Leica Moves into the Future

The highly anticipated T-System from Leica has kicked off with the Leica T, a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera powered by Leica’s brand new system.

Once again Leica has teamed up with the Audi design team (they

domain. The addition of the 4K camcorder will be a positive move as there is demand for this up coming technology in the imaging sector.”

also came up with the Leica C Titanium M9 in 2010). The body is crafted from a single block of aluminium, giving it a fluid industrial look, while each component is fitted by hand and

Android 4.2.2 Jelly bean OS and we’ve introduced improvements in resolution, screen size and have for the first time incorporated an earphone jack.”

The Nikon COOLPIX S810c will be available to selected retailers only at an RRP of £249.99 / €299.

The new Leica T designed with help from Audi

polished to a shine.

Top Selling Points: • 16 MP APS-C sensor.

• Two lenses – an 1815mm and a 35mm.

• Touch screen.

• WiFi capability.

Recommended accessories:

• Visoflex electronic accessory viewfinder designed especially for the T-system.

• M adaptor.

• SF 26 flash.

• BP-DC 13 Li-ion battery.

RRP: £1350 for the camera body (black or silver).

PHOTO New accessories for X-T1 Fujifilm has announced the launch of a new range of accessories for the mirrorless X-T1 camera.

Filters with Fight

Marumi’s highest grade UV filters now available The Japanese-made EXUS range is now available to retailers from Kenro. These high spec filters are designed for DSLRs and come with a host of advanced features to protect the lens and

enhance shots. The filter has a special ‘anti foul’ coating that repels liquid and allows residue to be easily wiped off, protecting the lens from water, oil and greasy fingers. It also features an anti-static coating which

prevents glass erosion caused by microscopic dust.

USP: High grade and durable.

Available from: Kenro: 01793 615836.

RRP: £58.32 to £138.00 inc VAT.

Tall Photographers Rejoice!

Benro Monopods released in larger sizes

These will include: • • • • • •

Two hand grips Grip strap Extended eyecup Coverkit for sync terminal Hot shoe Vertical battery grip terminal

These products will be available from the end of May. UK pricing has yet to be confirmed.

To find out more, contact Fujufilm on 01234 572 000.

Go Braun

The Braun Master Action Camera is a similar price to the ever-popular GoPro and boasts a range of features Braun says extreme sports enthusiasts ask for. It withstands depths of 100m underwater, it has a tough outer casing to protect against inevitable scrapes and drops, and it has some impressive features such as 10x digital zoom, 16 megapixals, up to 64GB memory and WiFi capabilities – allowing it to be controlled remotely via smartphone.

Cater for your long-legged customers with the recently launched Benro range of New Generation Monopods – now in larger sizes.

This new range offers reprieve from sore necks and aching backs, giving taller customers a monopod they don’t have to stoop over. These new high quality monopods come in a height range of 53cm-161cm and weigh in at a very waif-like 0.57kg (for carbon fibre), or 0.75kg (for

Braun has released a waterproof action camera to rival the GoPro Optional extras: Head strap mount and self-timer accessories, various 3m adhesives, strap accessory, surf accessory, sucker accessory for car use, pipe clam fitting with max diameter 32mm and floaty pad for waterproof case.

RRP: £249.95 Available from: Kenro For further information call Kenro’s head office on 01793 615836, or visit the website at www.kenro.co.uk

New Addition to Nikon’s J Series The new Nikon 1 J4 has been announced – but how is it different?

This new addition to the growing range of portable Nikon 1 systems is being touted as a ‘speedy’, ‘solid’ and ‘stylish’ camera for the family.

Product Manager Thuan Bui said: “The Nikon 1 J4 builds on

the already successful J series with built in WiFi and touch screen capability. It is a super-fast compact system camera that features an 18.4mp CMOS sensor, a rapid autofocus system and built in WiFi and is ideal for people who want the

aluminium) making it perfect for a quick set-up outdoors.

Kenro Managing Director Paul Kench commented: “The New Generation Series of monopods are the perfect solution for outdoor photographers who regularly need to set up shots quickly and keep the load light. These new larger versions ensure that taller users can be more comfortable and other photographers can gain increased flexibility in their photography.”

Accessories: There are two monopod heads that can be sold alongside these products – the BRDJ80M and the BRDJ90, both of which are designed specifically for this range.

Available from: Kenro 01793 615836.

RRP: Between £71.88 and £143.88.

Light Lens, Powerful Reach New Nikon 18-300mm lens launched

Canon recently announced its new zoom lens, the AF-S DX Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-6.33G ED VR. But what does Nikon hope to achieve with this new contender?

Product Manager Thuan Bui told Pixel: “The 18-300mm lens is flexible and portable, making it ideal for photographers looking to get the most out of their Nikon DX D-SLR.” Despite its compact build, the 16.7x zoom lens has the same wide-angle and super-telephoto reach as the heavier NIKKOR 18300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR. “The new 18-300mm lens offers a flexible focal range that makes it a great all round lens. It’s lighter than the existing 18-300mm, which makes it convenient and portable for travelling,” Mr Bui added.

USP: Powerful yet portable zoom lens ideal for wildlife photographers.

Highlighted features: • Nikon’s Vibration Reduction system delivers blur-free images even during handheld shooting.

• Three aspherical lens elements work together to reduce the risk of aberrations common with superzoom lenses.

• A zoom lock switch prevents ‘zoom creep’.

• At just 550g, this model is very light for the type of lens it is.

RRP: £629.99 / €749.00.

flexibility of an interchangeable lens camera system that is convenient, portable and allows hassle-free shooting.”

Top selling points: • Touch screen •18.4-megapixel CMOS sensor as used in the new Nikon 1 V3 • Built-in Wi-Fi

• 3 cinematic movie modes.

Optional extras: • WP-N3 Waterproof Case • SB-N10 Underwater Speedlight • Nikon 1 body cases and body case sets • FT1 Mount Adapter.

RRP: Nikon 1 J4 kit with 10-30mm lens: £499.99 / €599.00.

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Delkin: Innovators Pushing Boundaries California-based Delkin is widely credited as being the first company to sell removable flash memory for digital cameras. Today, it designs and manufactures a huge range of creative solutions for photo enthusiasts who want to push boundaries with innovative equipment.

Fat Gecko – Smart on Phones Fat Gecko mounts are designed to attach to almost any surface imaginable, giving photographers the opportunity to capture action shots from unique angles in incredible situations – such as the window of a racecar, the beam of a yacht, or the helmet of a base jumper.

Now, Delkin have launched new Fat Gecko accessories for iPhones.

The new Fat Gecko Bracket for iPad Mini enables users to attach their devices

to almost any surface, including windows, desks, kitchen surfaces and even car seats for ultra convenience.

RRP: £11.90

The brand has also launched a bracket to allow iOs and Android Smartphones to be mounted to Fat Gecko accessories such as the monopods, tripods and Gorillapods®.

RRP: £17.83

Snug-it – Protection for Nikon D5300

SensorScope – Give your Camera a Mean Clean

The Snug-it custom camera skins offer DSLR users extra protection – without obstructing buttons or camera features.

The skin is ideal for customers hoping to take their camera out with them to the great outdoors.

RRP: £20.83

Even Delkin’s range of SensorScope cleaning products offers top quality design and innovation. The SensorScope Sensor Cleaning System is an award-winning kit for DSLR photographers.

It provides all the products needed to eliminate debris from valuable CCD or CMOS sensors – including the

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surrounding chamber and lens. The all-inclusive package includes: • SensorScope LED inspection device • SensorVac vacuum • SensorSafe cleaning wands • SensorSolution quick-dry liquid • SensorPen polishing pen & Cleaning Cloth RRP: £77.35

ADVERTORIAL

Low-cost Accessories As well as offering an impressive range of photographic equipment, Delkin also supplies low-cost accessories, including: • Archival Gold CD & DVD Safe Pens RRP £1.78 • Jellyfish Floating Waterproof Kit for Cameras, Mobile Phones & Compact Electronics (Clamshell Packaged) £11.90 • Water Resistant Tote for 8 CF Memory Cards £5.95 • Water Resistant Tote for 8 SD Memory Cards £5.95

Flexible Memory

Become a Delkin Dealer Delkin currently distributes products to hundreds of industry retailers and local camera and specialty stores worldwide – but it is always looking to expand its network.

If you would like to join the Delkin dealer network and sell Delkin products, simply complete the online form at www.delkin. com/support/become-dealer

Delkin’s impressive line-up of memory cards offers something for all needs and include CompactFlash and Secure Digital memory cards, USB2.0 Flash Drives, and Solid State drives all optimised for compact and DSLR use. All Delkin memory cards are backed by a trusted Lifetime Warranty and dedicated technical support staff, offering customers further security after purchase.

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N I W Fat Gecko Triple Mount If you’re shooting with a heavier DSLR and lens combination or just aiming to get the most stability for video shoots, our Fat Gecko Triple Mount is just the ticket. Three industrial locking suction cups adjust to the contour of your shooting surface, then tighten and lock into place to create our most stable mount yet. With six adjustable points, it’s easy to set up a customized angle that gets you a unique (and otherwise unattainable) shot for every shooting situation. The standard ¼-20” tripod head creates a reliable connection with your camera and includes a rubber washer with a tightening knob to dampen vibration even further in wind or from moving shooting surfaces.

Send your answers to Zoe Thomas: zoe@pixel.co.uk or send a postcard to 19 The Avenue, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 3YD Closing Date: 2nd June 2014

To WIN simply answer this simple question: How many adjustable points does the Fat Gecko Triple Mount have?

A: 2 B: 6 C: 3

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SPECIAL REPORT PRINT

Will Selfies Revive Photo Print?

A survey by camera equipment insurer Photoguard found that the majority of selfie takers also print their snaps.

A survey of 1,000 amateur and professional photographers revealed that, of those who took selfies, 80% had also had those snaps printed in the last year.

However, out of all those polled, nearly half had not printed off any photographs at all. People who took pictures of food and art were the least likely to print their images, while women were more likely to print than men.

According to the survey, the top reasons for not printing photographs included lack of equipment and the cost of printing.

Blurb teams up with Amazon Photographers will soon be able to sell their own photobooks on Amazon.

Amazon and Blurb have teamed up to offer photographers the chance to self-publish their own photobooks – created and designed on Blurb, sold and distributed by Amazon.

Eileen Gittins, CEO and founder of Blurb said: “We will facilitate the whole thing: get the book an ISBN and print it on demand – there’s no minimum print run.”

On top of that, Blurb can even warehouse print runs over 300 for six months. The only catch in the deal is that Amazon charges a referral fee of 15% of the product price.

Metroprint: The Story Pixel speaks to Alice Widger about the Metroprint app Metro Imaging started out as a two-man operation in the ‘80s, but since then it has continued to grow and evolve into one of the most trusted and innovative professional print labs in the country.

Here we speak to Alice Widger, who runs the company’s Metroprint app, to find out more about this exciting new development.

How did Metroprint come about?

We initially launched our Instagram printing service online, with Metroprint. We saw a gap in the market to add 5x5 inch prints designed around the Instagram and ‘vintage camera’ square format. No one was really offering a printing service for something as simple as this, so we decided to open the photo printing market out to phone camera users.

After the success of our online service, we decided to build an app that allowed users to select images directly from their iPhone or Android

Find out more at: www.metro-print.co.uk/ instagramandkioskprints

Sales Manager Phil McMullin tells us more

Epson recently announced its target to double its range of Sure Inkjet printers by 2016. Here Pixel talks to Phil McMullin, Sales Manager of Epson Professional Imaging to find out what products could be in store.

What is the market like for wide format printers?

The market for digital wide format is large and demand is growing. This is particularly true in the textile arena where new dye sublimation and DTG (direct to garment) ink

Harman Photo launches new 295gsm RC inkjet paper

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long term, in some respects you could see the birth of digital sharing and social media as the death of physical printing, but having launched the Metroprint app it’s clear that the ‘every day user’ still wants a print to frame or give as a gift.

Although film is no longer the market leader, it’s still popular and is seeing a resurgence with the younger generation. Nothing quite beats the physical form of a photograph, whether it’s for an exhibition or simply for personal use.

Photo Printing Still at the Core of Epson

Heavier Inkjet Paper from Harman In a recent press release, Harman Technology Ltd claimed that their new CRYSTALJET ELITE RC 295gsm inkjet paper “delivers exceptional quality prints with the appearance of real photographs.”

Previous products in the CRYSTALJET range include 260gsm weight paper coated in resin, and another in gloss. This heavier version weighs in at 295g and comes in gloss and a newly

gallery or log into their Instagram feed.

What similar services are you up against?

We are one of very few labs out there that actually offer real photographic prints. Our Instagram photos are printed on C Type Fuji Archive Paper. Most companies create the ‘fake Polaroid’ print, using card, stickers or magnets. Since we launched the app, the market is now full of companies offering the other type of product, which are more for gifts. Our service is to bring back the importance of printing and enjoying your photographs in the physical form.

Are you planning any upgrades?

We have plans to add larger sized prints; we’ve printed up to 20x20 inches before.

What is the overall feeling about smartphone photo printing at Metro?

It’s a difficult one to predict in the

developed pearl surface. The paper comes in common sizes of sheets and rolls, and is compatible with the latest pigment and dye based inkjet printers.

This product will be available at www.harmantechnology.com from May 6.

technology is expanding the opportunity for end users.

How will you meet this demand?

Epson has recently launched a range of textile printers, completely designed and built by us, to address the growing market. Future developments will focus on this area along with signage, label and technical print

applications.

What proportion of the growing Sure range will be dedicated to photo print?

Our core business is still the photo print market and over 50% of the new “Sure” branded printers to be launched in the next two years are projected to be for this arena. www.epson.com

Epson to Roll Out New Kiosk Service

How does Epson hope to compete against emerging innovations such as photobooks and print apps?

Phil McMullin, Sales Manager of Professional Imaging at Epson said: “The rise of social media has changed the way people view their photos and pushed the demand for printed photos into applications such as photobooks.

There is also a strong market for instant print and Epson will shortly start to ship a self-service kiosk solution that will allow retailers to tap

into this demand. The strategy is to interface with all digital photographic devices and apps to easily and seamlessly drive print through our various high quality print devices.

Our current SureLab (dry lab photo printer) is performing well in the market and continuing to win market share, particularly in replacing traditional wet lab technologies.” www.epson.co.uk

MOBILE

Where Science Meets Protection Tech21 launch new tough cases for Samsung Galaxy S5 Retailers can now sell new Impactology cases for Samsung Galaxy S5 smartphones. These cases are made from a patented polymer material that promises to give

customers scientifically proven and ‘unparallelled’ protection against drops and damage.

Varieties: Impact Shell, Impact Mesh, Impact Herringbone Impact Tactical and Impact Frame.

Mobile Power Chinese phone manufacturer OnePlus has announced the launch of a smartphone with a 13-megapixel camera made by Sony.

CEO Pete Lau announced that the new OnePlus One’s camera will feature an f/2.0 aperture and a 6-element lens that is claimed to compensate for wide aperture distortions. The smartphone camera will also feature Image Stabilisation Plus technology, which reduces

Colours: White, blue, clear and pink.

RRP: All types £24.99.Available from: www.tech21.com

13 mega pixel smartphone cam from OnePlus

noise and shakiness while a photo is taken by gathering data from other parts inside the device. According to OnePlus, this model will be using over 120 algorithms to produce sharper images. If that wasn’t enough, the new cam also shoots 4K video, supports

slow motion and and supports 120fps slow motion movie with a resolution of 720p. Even the ‘selfie’ camera at the front has five megapixels.

Distribution details and pricing have yet to be confirmed, but Mr Lau said it would be no more than than $400 (roughly £238).

Sweet Spot Just Got Sweeter

Lensbaby caters for Android In the last issue of Pixel, we announced that Lensbaby had launched a Kickstarter project for the Sweet Spot selective focus lens especially for iPhones.

Now, the company has revealed it will be creating a product for Android users too. While the hardware itself will remain the same, the app supporting it will be compatible with devices running running Jelly Bean

HTC Forecasts Revenue Growth HTC has released its unaudited results for the first quarterly review this year Between January and March 2014, HTC’s revenue was $33.12 billion, with a net loss (before tax) of $1.88 billion. The company’s operating loss totaled at $2.05 billion and the net loss after tax was $1.88 billion.

The report revealed that HTC expects to see a positive trajectory of its revenue in the coming months, with strong quarter-on-quarter growth driven by high market demand for its new products, including the much-discussed HTC One (M8).

(v4.1-4.3) and KitKat (v4.4), opening up the product to a broader market.

When we last reported two weeks ago, Lensbaby’s Kickstarter project had raised $19,839 of its original $20,000 target. Now, it has leapt to more than double that at $42,122.

Lensbaby currently stocks a number of retailers in the UK. To find out more, visit lensbaby. com/retailers

‘Nokia’ to Become Microsoft Mobile As Microsoft’s purchase of Nokia’s Device and Service activities moves into the final stages, details emerge of a new brand name.

Microsoft will take Microsoft Mobile, while Nokia will retain its name in case a decision is made to reenter the market with a new offering based on a different operating system.

Will Smartphone Photography Take Over DSLR? This is what HTC has ambitiously claimed

A camera specialist at HTC recently claimed that smartphone cameras already outperform many point-and-shoot cameras, and soon they will even rival DSLRs. In an interview with Virgin UK to promote the new HTC One (M8), Symon Whitehorn said: “Optical zooming in a smartphone is not too far off at all for HTC. I can’t give too much away, but within 12-18 months we’ll see huge advances in phone optics.”

Whitehorn also suggested that HTC phones with 4K capabilities could be on the horizon, but that the company would wait until: “4K can really fit into people’s lives, and to make sure that that decision makes sense.”

Samsung Launches Hybrid

Samsung Launches Hybrid Galaxy K Zoom

Samsung recently launched its new Galaxy K Zoom at an event in Singapore. The device contains all the features of a smartphone, as well as a fullfeatured point and shoot camera.

The Android-powered K Zoom will be available in different markets worldwide, but no specific details have been released yet.

• Top Selling Points: • Android KitKat • 20.7 megapixel camera

• 200g weight, 20mm thickness • 10X zoom • Zenon flash Sun Hong Lim, senior vice president of Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics, said: “With the introduction of the Galaxy K Zoom, Samsung continues to demonstrate our commitment to creating products that meet the demand of our consumers.”

www.pixel.co.uk 9

MTF Triumph at the Pixel Indie 150 – Again!

The highs and lows of Pixel’s annual race day at Daytona

Six teams, 30 drivers, 1,360m challenging corners – but once we of smooth tarmac and just one did, it was a blood bath out there. oversized trophy up for grabs – but Flags were flying, brakes were who mastered those tight bends, squealing and karts were spinning all and who let the free curry buffet get over the place. But all in the name of the better of them? business, of course.

For once, Milton Keynes was not We were happy to have James cloaked in a misty drizzle. Today Gilbert of Cameraworld with us on the sky was bright, the ground the day. He said: “It was really good dry and the air warm – perfect to be able to have the chance to talk conditions for a 2.5-hour endurance to the dealers and manufacturers in race on Daytona’s International a less formal setting than is normally Circuit, hosted by Pixel and the case and something we don’t generously sponsored by Canon and get to do as much as we should – all Panasonic. the while we’re all having a bit of After a quick coffee, a bacon bap friendly competition at an excellent and a 10-minute safety video (plus venue. The racing was a lot of fun, five minutes before the staff realised the food excellent, and it was great the sound was off), we all trooped to meet new people and do some down to the all-important viewing area networking. to begin our I’d definitely “The racing was a lot of recommend practice laps.

Some of the that anyone fun, the food excellent, dealers, who who gets and it was great to meet the chance included representatives new people and do some should go from Wex and I can’t all-important networking.” wait for next Photographic, Cameraworld year. A big and Camulet thanks once to name a few, were veterans to again for a superb day!” the racetrack and one or two even As excellent as the curry buffet bought their own kit (show offs). was, it was all too much for one For the rest of us, this was a new driver who unfortunately had to experience and it took a few practice pull out of the race after his lunch laps to get the hang of those 11 ‘networked’ with the front of his

10 www.pixel.co.uk

Pos. Kart Racer

Best lap

Lap Average

1

32

Mtf.

01:10:244

120 01:15:579 -

2

24

Hungry Eye

01:12:620

113 01:20:792 7L

3

14

Canon 2

01:15:769

109 01:23:757 11L

4

18

Panasonic

01:11:982

107 01:25:118 13L

5

15

Canon 3

01:16:710

105 01:25:837 15L

6

23

InPrint

01:16:522

104 01:26:676 16L

7

11

Canon 1

01:17:256

102 01:28:668 18L

8

42

Panasonic 2 01:15:176

102 01:28:983 18L

9

25

Pixel

92

01:14:360

helmet at a particularly bendy part of the track. We suggest you stick with the poppadoms next year!

Roscoe Atkins of Park Cameras managed to make it to the end of the race. He said: “The Pixel karting day was once again a very enjoyable and well organised event. It’s a great opportunity to catch up with suppliers, media, colleagues and competitors in a relaxed, friendly environment (except on the track, of course, where no love is lost!) My thanks go to Pixel and to Canon/ Panasonic as generous sponsors of the event.”

Although the competition was

Gap

01:37:984 28L

tough (save for team Pixel, who out of generosity to the other dealers took last place by quite a few laps), there was a clear winner at the end.

For the second year running, MTF took first place on the Pixel podium and laid well-deserved claim to the giant trophy, which was in fact the size of a small child.

All in all, a great day was had by all and we hope to attract even more dealers to our event next year.

Thank you to Canon and Panasonic who sponsored the race, and thank you to all those who came along!

Bring on 2015. www.pixel.co.uk

SPECIAL REPORT EVENTS

Gadget Show Live 2014

Highlights from the NEC

Cewe Photoworld showcasing its impressive range of photobooks, including some exciting new developments, Olympus, Canon, The Flash Centre, Hague Camera Supports and JVC displaying the new range of ‘all weather’ cameras. Mushtak Kazi, Communications Manager at JVC, said: “It was good to have a presence at one of the largest consumer events in the UK – a good branding exercise for us.”

Last month Pixel swapped the sunny climes of the South Downs for a day out at the NEC in Birmingham, where hundreds of exhibitors were busy gearing up for the four day Gadget Show Live. This yearly event offers an ideal opportunity for brands of all sizes to unveil their latest technology to the European market, and it was a great chance for us to stake out new products in the imaging sector. Exhibitors included

Sign & Digital 2014 The 25-year-old Sign & Digital Show took place once again at the NEC in Birmingham between Wednesday 29 April and Thursday 1 May 2014. visited us now the Installs.”

This is the annual trade show for the sign making, display solutions and wide format digital printing sectors, featuring over 170 exhibitors, exclusive product launches and a free education programme comprising of seminars and workshops.

Feedback about the show on twitter was largely positive, with MTEX Technologies tweeting: “Thank you @Signanddigital for a great show MTEX was a huge success, thank you for all that

Large Format Review posted: “A fab few days @Signanddigital and lovely to catch up with so many wonderful characters. Safe journeys home peeps.”

Sign & Digital responded by posting: “Thank you to all our amazing exhibitors and visitors for making #SDUK 2014 such a huge success! See you in March 2015 for the next one.” This is the annual trade show for the sign making, display solutions and wide format digital printing sectors, featuring over

170 exhibitors, exclusive product launches and a free education programme comprising of seminars and workshops.

Feedback about the show on twitter was largely positive, with MTEX Technologies tweeting: “Thank you @Signanddigital for a great show MTEX was a huge success, thank you for all that visited us now the Installs.”

Large Format Review posted: “A fab few days @Signanddigital and lovely to catch up with so many wonderful characters. Safe journeys home peeps.”

Nikon to Star at PhotoWorld Dubai Nikon to Star at Photoworld-Dubai Sponsorship deal Nikon is sponsoring a host of photography attractions at PhotoWorld-Dubai 2014, which will take place between May 6 and 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The Nikon events will include free workshops, exhibition visitors, an exclusive appearance by top London-based food photographer Jean Cazals, plus a series of full day professional photography masterclasses.

Exhibition organiser Jean-Marie Jenanji said: “The involvement of Nikon and other major names from around the world means there will be much more for photography professionals and enthusiasts at this year’s show. It’s very exciting and we are looking forward to welcoming visitors from over 40 countries.”

For more information, call PhotoWorld-Dubai team at Channels Exhibitions on: +971 (0)4 282 4737

Digital Imaging Show Roadshows

The Digital Imaging Show gives professionals in the imaging industry a chance to catch up on the latest news, technology and products emerging in the

current market. The Digital Imaging roadshows offer free talks from leading photographers about changes to products and services in the UK market.

Trade Show Opening Times: 10:0016:00 Upcoming Events: Cardiff - 07/05/2014-9:00am-4:30 pm Maidstone - 22/05/2014 - 9:00 am - 4:30

Falkirk - 19/06/2014 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

www.pixel.co.uk 11

AV & COMPUTING

‘World’s fastest’ microSD Toshiba’s new microSD memory cards offer the fastest transfer rates available. The cards, developed by America Electronic Components Inc, are available in 32GB and 64GB capacities. This means 4K video, live broadcast and content can be recorded on high performance cameras.

The 32GB cards have a read speed that is 8x faster than the previous US-I cards. This reduces the time it takes to download large data movie and music files to other devices such as smartphones and tablets, and it enables camera users to shoot high res digital still images in a continuous high speed shooting mode.

UK pricing is not yet set but sample shipments for chipset vendors and set manufacturers of smart phones and other mobile devices are available now. For more information on memory products from Toshiba, please visit www.toshiba.co.uk

Flash Growth The Global Flash Memory Cards market will keep on growing, a recent report has found.

Between 2013 and 2018, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.74%. The figures come from an in-depth market analysis by industry experts. The report also identifies the key vendors operating in this market, including SanDisk Corp, Samsung Semiconductor Inc, Toshiba and Transcend Information Inc. One major trend identified in the report was the increasing adoption of high-density memory cards. A spokesperson said: “Flash memory cards in the market currently have a maximum storage capacity of about 256GB. Vendors are offering high storage capacity products to gain and retain new customers.”

However, one question the market could face soon is this: will the rise of portable devices with large in-build memories eliminate the need for flash memory cards entirely?

12 www.pixel.co.uk

Small Box, Big Impact Philips has added another projector to its home cinema range Following on from the Screeneo HDP 1550tv/10, the new HDP 1590TV has an additional Miracast feature, which enables the user to connect their tablet or smartphone wirelessly to the Screeneo, so that everything they do

on their handheld device will appear on the big screen.

The new Screeneo can also be used as a music station as users can stream directly from their smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth or DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) functionality.

Top selling points: It projects an image up to 100” at a short distance from the wall, it has integrated speakers plus a subwoofer eliminating the need for a separate sound system, and it can also stream content from any device.

Optional extras: Retailers can sell DLP Link 3D glasses alongside the projector. www.philips.co.uk

Vivid Colours at 28 Inches AOC has launched 28” MVA monitors Display specialist AOC has added two 28” monitors to its Value Line, offering full HD resolution, wide viewing angles and high luminosity on both models.

The m2870Vhe and the m2870Vq both boast rich colours, high contrast and fast response times of only 5ms, making them ideal for professional

use. They also come with a wide array of connectors, including D-Sub, DVI and HDM1. The Vq has an additional DisplayPort and stereo speakers.

Both models are also energy efficient, having earned sustainability certificates including TCO 6.0 and Energy Star 6.0.

Available: Now, call +49 30 789076 - 0 RRP: m2870Vhe is £179.99, m2870Vq is £189.99.

W S M

N.

Fu dis It i

136

N.

Philips PicoPix PPX 3610 launched

or Android app that enables them to use their smartphone as a remote control.

Top selling points: WiFi connectivity, Android operating system, two hour internal battery life, 100 lumens, large screen format up to 120” (305cm).

Optional extras: Retailers can sell a number of accessories alongside

B

136

From the Web to the Wall

At the Gadget Show last month, Philips showcased its new PicoPix pocket projector with WiFi and DLNA functionality. This is the fourth model in the company’s range of lightweight, portable projectors and the first to offer WiFi connection – making it the most portable yet. Another nifty feature is that users can download an Apple

F R

Ex sta Th Ba the projector, including a component cable, VGA cable, composite audio/ video adapter, iPhone cable, MHL to HDM1 and mini USB cable, PicoPix TV Station and PicoPix Sound Station.

Cheap Quirky Accessory

Th is

• P h • E •T • M

The Snap Remote is now available to stock Retailers can now get their hands on the Snap Remote, a palm-sized remote control that allows smartphone users to take selfies from a distance. With selfies being the in-thing at the moment, this device could come at no better time – and its relatively low price tag makes this accessory a great impulse buy for shoppers.

Online shop Prezzybox already stocks these quirky devices.

Marketing manager Kieran Elsby said: “Rather than having to hold the camera and having hands in the shot, this can take a picture at the press of a button. Unlike phone camera timers, this means you can keep snapping until you are happy!”

The Snap Remote comes with a free app and phone stand. It is compatible with the iPhone 3, 4, 5, I.D, iPad and Android making it a

very versatile product.

Available from: Retailers can order the Snap Remote from www.thumbsupuk.com RRP: £14.99

U e

Spe

s

FREE Roll-Up

Banner Stand When you purchase a roll of NEW Scratch Resistant Roll-Up Banner Media

Scratch Resistant Roll-Up Banner media (610mm x 20m, Satin) N.A.S £110.97

136026

Fujifilm’s New Roll-Up Banner media is a high quality, scratch resistant, printable polyester display media with a satin finish.

It is 100% opaque due to the silver grey backing.

Roll-Up Banner Stand (700mm x 2m, silver) N.A.S £22.37

136027

Extremely practical and quick to assemble the Fujifilm Roll-Up Banner stand is robust and stable in use.

The 700mm width is ideally suited for use with the 610mm (24”) Scratch Resistant Roll-Up Banner media.

The combination of the Scratch Resistant Roll-Up Banner media and Roll-Up Banner stand is the ideal choice for: • POS advertising (photo retailer, car showroom, hotel foyer, fitness club, beauty salon, hair dresser etc.)

• Exhibitions • Trade Fairs • Mobile Presentations

Ultimate top seller for fast, effective POS presentations.

Speak to your Swains Regional Sales Manager or call us on 01485 536 200

Distributed By www.pixel.co.uk 13

SPECIAL REPORT FOCUS

THE BIG INTERVIEW

‘Traditional’ company The Widescreen Centre has launched itself into the digital age with a new app. Here, Pixel talks to Managing Director Dr. Simon Bennett to find out more

a real showroom, surviving for 43 years on the quality of our products and the advice we give. Like many, we lose our share of business to the online price-cutters. This App may be - we believe - one way to draw some of these customers back, and alert others to our presence, who may naturally prioritise online shopping.”

While Simon admits the app is there to generate business, he also hopes it will help to build customer confidence in them as a retailer.

“We attend a lot of exhibitions and field events so it will allow us to connect with new and existing customers while on the move,” he said.

With so many companies within the industry tapping into younger, tech-savvy markets by launching their own apps, is there increasing pressure for smaller retailers to do the same?

Simon told us: “It’s not critical yet - but the time is drawing near.

It’s a time investment as much as a financial one, at a time when all of us are working longer hours, with

The Widescreen Centre started in 1971 as a family-owned specialist retailer selling entry-level telescopes and accessories. Today, it has expanded into one of the UK’s premier retail astronomy outlets – and the only one in London.

Now the store is exploring new dimensions with its recently announced app, available for fewer staff, on reduced margins and download on Apple store and spiralling costs. We saw the need for Google Play. The app will keep this and wanted to do it first.” users informed with regular news, But the road hasn’t been special offers, events and even a totally smooth for Simon and the monthly sky diary. team. Apps take time, money But what does the business hope and expertise to develop, and to achieve, and will they get a return Widescreen was all done in-house. on their time and However, Simon sees it investment? as an essential tool for “We want to increase the company’s future.

The Widescreen “In doing it the way “We have, we’ve retained full control Centre’s visibility to the we have, we’ve retained of the development without incurring 21st Century customer full control of the steep costs and spending time base,” Simon told us. development without “We’re a ‘traditional’ incurring steep costs and explaining the vagaries of our industry company in that we’ve spending time explaining to somebody on the outside” a long history as an the vagaries of our expert retailer, with industry to somebody on

Credits & Contacts

Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield 01323 411601 lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Editor: Zoe Thomas 01323 437946 zoe@pixel.co.uk

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Design Assistant: Amy Watson 01323 411601 amy@lfiemediagroup.co.uk

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the outside,” he said.

“We all have to adapt to survive.

We all had our first websites. We all lived through the digital imaging revolution and survived. This, we believe, is the next frontier.”

Find out more at www. widescreen-centre.co.uk or call +44 (0) 207 935 2580

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Pixel Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of Life Media Group LTD. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Pixel Magazine assume no reponsibilty for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisment contained within Pixel Magazine.

All prices featured in Pixel Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

Copyright Life Media Group LTD 2014©

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