smart photography - january 2015 in.pdf

ISSUE 10VOLUME 10

JANUARY 2015

RS.125

INTERVIEW: Sanak Roy Choudhury PROFILE: Saurabh Botre

INDIAS NUMBER 1 IMAGING MAGAZINE!

SPECIAL FEATURE Kingfi sher Calendar 2015

PHOTO

FEATUREPURI

JAGANNATH

RATH YATRA

STREET PHOTOGRAPHYSHOOTING BLACK ON BLACKBASICS OF FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

LEARNINGSSTREET PHOTOGRAPHYSHOOTING BLACK ON BLACKBASICS OF FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

CANON EOS 7D MARK IIOLYMPUS OM-D E-M10CANON POWERSHOT SX60 HSZEISS OTUS 85MM F/1.4 APO PLANAR T* NOKIA LUMIA 830EPSON L 1800

REVIEWS: CANON EOS 7D MARK IIOLYMPUS OM-D E-M10CANON POWERSHOT SX60 HSZEISS OTUS 85MM F/1.4 APO PLANAR T* NOKIA LUMIA 830EPSON L 1800

16 pages IMS supplement with January 2015 issue.

SUBSCRIBERS COPY

They say change is a part of life and is inevitable. It is the pace of change however that creates problems for all but the very best or the very lucky. Look at our own imaging industry. Who could have predicted the pace at which Smartphones have captured the imagination of the masses? Again, who could have predicted that the low cost Chinese manufacturers of Smartphones would put the big brands in a tizzy?

For 2015, the imaging industry is praying for consolidation with little change. All is not lost and our guess is as follows:

1. D-SLRs will have one more good year.

2. Mirrorless cameras will start making a mark, especially the ones with high quality videos.

3. Compact cameras will be successful in segments e.g. professional compact cameras, superzoom travel compact cameras and bridge cameras. Brand power will be important.

Happy 2015 and all best wishes!

H. S. Billimoria

WE ARE GLUED TO THE GLOBAL IMAGING INDUSTRYOur team is updated with all the benchmarks and road blocks that the fi eld of photography and imaging across the globe experiences. Th is helps us record the changes in the global perspective, thus making us the fi rst to predict which products will be a rage in the Indian markets.

WERE IMPARTIALLoyalty towards our readers is a given, and their best interests are always on our mind. Every verdict is honest and not infl uenced by advertisers or personal favorites. So when we say a product is a BEST BUY, then, it is just that!

OUR TESTS ARE CONDUCTED BY EXPERTSAll equipment go through a series of tests at the hands of our experts. Our reviewers are experts in the fi eld of photography across the country and have many years of experience. Th at gives us the foresight to distinguish between a passing trend and a big change in the fi eld of photography and imaging. And fi nally, our reviews are not extended to just fi ll up the pages!

WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOUTh ere is no debate on why we are here. Our sole goal is to provide you options and better your judgement in product purchase while, sharing tips and tricks to improve your images. Our biggest joy is in building a bridge between you and your perfect picture!

HERES WHAT

MAKES US

Views and opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. Next Gen Publishing does not take the responsibility for returning unsolicited material sent without adequate postal stamps for return postage. No part of the magazine may be reproduced in part or full without the prior express writt en permission of the publisher. Printed by Girish Mallya, Next Gen Publishing Ltd., Trade World, 2nd Floor, C Wing, Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400013. Published by Girish Mallya on behalf of Next Gen Publishing Ltd., Trade World, 2nd Floor, C Wing, Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400013. Printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt. Ltd, 1-1-60/5 RTCX Roads, Hyderabad - 20. Published at Next Gen Publishing Ltd., Trade World, 2nd Floor, C Wing, Kamala Mills Compound,

Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400013. Copyright 2014 SMART PHOTOGRAPHYAll readers are recommended to make their own independent enquiries before sending money, incurring expenses or entering into commitments in relation to any advertisement appearing in the publication. Smart Photography does not vouch for any claims made by advertisers for their products and services. Th e editor, publisher, printer and employees of the publication shall not be held liable for any consequence in the events of such claims not being honoured by the advertisers. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Mumbai only.

Editor Hoshang S Billimoria

January 2015 Smart Photography 5www.smartphotography.in

WELCOME

EDITORHoshang S. Billimoria

TECHNICAL EDITORRohinton Mehta

SENIOR CORRESPONDENTSujith Gopinath

COPY EDITORTanika Godbole

PHOTOGRAPHYMahesh Reddy

HEAD-DESIGN & PRODUCTION Ravi Parmar

DESIGNNandkishor Sawant

ADVERTISE DESIGNSanjay Awad

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Dinesh Bhajnik

PICTURES DESKDeepak Narkar

PUBLISHERGirish Mallya

PRODUCT MANAGERPerseus Master

HEAD OFFICE - MUMBAI2nd Floor, C Wing, Trade World, Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400013

Tel: + 91 22 43525252 Fax: + 91 22 24955394 Email: [email protected]

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Sachin Kelkar (Subscription Supervisor)

Tel: + 91 22 43525220 Fax: + 91 22 24955394 Email: [email protected]

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6 Smart Photography January 2015 www.smartphotography.in

Contents ISSUE 118 / JANUARY 2015

ISSUE 10VOLUME 10

JANUARY 2015

RS.125

SUBSCRIBERS COPY

INTERVIEW: Sanak Roy Choudhury PROFILE: Saurabh Botre


SPECIAL FEATURE Kingfi sher Calendar 2015

PHOTO

FEATUREPURI

JAGANNATH

RATH YATRA





16 pages IMS supplement with January 2015 issue.

Cover credits: Kingfisher Calendar 2015Photographer: Atul KasbekarModel: Sarah Jane Dias

Just a moment!Readers can find the updated Buyers Guide, log on http://smartphotography.in/news/monthly-special

Smart Photography thanks the readers who participate in the Picture of the Month contest. We would like to bring to your attention a few changes in the rules for submission. From now on, you may send in your images with the longer side measuring atleast 17 inches. Please note that the images have to be horizontal. This permits readers to submit panoramic shots, which was not possible with the current size of 17 x 11 inches.

REGULARS

08 Mail Bag10 News Watch 30 Picture of the Month154 Tidbits

34 KaleidoscopeA platform for budding photographers to exhibit their talent and get noticed!

40 Showcase A photographic profile of the person behind the lens

44 If I Were YouOur expert comments on how your pic-tures can be taken to another level

48 Ask Uncle RonnieYour photo queries answered by Uncle Ronnie

52 Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra58 Kingfisher Calendar 201562 MasterCraftsman The masters of the craft share their insights and photographs

6234


SUBSCRIPTION OFFERpage93

REVIEWS

LEARNINGS

70 Street Photography - A Tutorial

76 Shooting Black On Black82 Flash Fundamentals

86 Canon PowerShot G7X94 Olympus OM-D E-M10100 Canon PowerShot SX60 HS104 Zeiss85mm f/1.4 Otus APO Planar T* Lens108 Nokia Lumia 830111 Epson L1800

70 76

SMART TRAVEL

CONTEST114

MAILBAG


Write to us at: Mail BagSmart Photography, Trade World, C-Wing, 2nd Floor, Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel(W), Mumbai 400013. E-mail: [email protected]

ISSUE 9VOLUME 10

DECEMBER 2014

RS.125

SUBSCRIBERS COPY

INTERVIEW DUARTE SOL PROFILE RAVALNATH JOSHI


TRAVELOGUE Pondicherry

117

LEARNINGSWHAT COLOURS MEANIMPORTANCE OF FOOD STYLINGUNDERSTANDING LIVE VIEWOPTICAL VIEWFINDER OR ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER?

REVIEWS OLYMPUS TG-3 CANON POWERSHOT G7X OLYMPUS 40-150MM F/2.8 TOKINA AT-X 70-200MM F/4

PHOTO FEATURE

DUOMO DI MILANO

(MILAN CATHEDRAL)

Street StoriesThe article titled Humans of India in the December issue was a very interesting one. After reading about these individuals who have taken it upon themselves to tell the stories of the common people of their cities, I visited the pages of the Humans of Bombay, Kolkata and Bangalore. It was wonderful to read the extraordinary tales of seemingly ordinary people. We barely notice these strangers around us and never think about their hopes, dreams and struggles. Reading about their candid confessions has restored my faith in humanity.

K. M. Sarthy

Camera ServicesThe last issue for 2014 was full of useful articles as usual. The images of Master Craftsman Duarte Sol were a visual treat. Keep on publishing the work of more such photographers from around the world! I also enjoyed the article on food photography by Dilip Yande. Food styling is an art in itself, and plays a huge role in creating a tempting food photo. I will be saving the article How good is your camera network. Service availability is an important factor to consider while buying a new camera or lens.

Pushkar Mahajan

Upcoming ShowsI have been reading your magazine for several years now and enjoy every issue. Typically, you report on shows and expeditions that have happened in the past. Would you consider including a column in your fine magazine titled Upcoming Shows and Expeditions? In this way, I and others might be able to attend these events in person.

Chris Mauger

Response:

I entirely agree with your suggestion; it would be better to have prior information about upcoming events rather than giving post-coverage. But heres the problem: almost everyone writes to us at the last minute; people do not realize that

information regarding an upcoming event should be sent to the magazine much in advance. Typically, we send the next months issue to the press around the 20th of the current month. People send their requests after the next months issue has already gone to the press. For example, if the event is on February 12, 2015 and the information comes to us after January 18-20, 2015, we cant do anything about it because the issue would have already gone for printing.If you can suggest a solution, I would be happy to look into it.

Thank you again for trying to help.

Best regards,Rohinton Mehta

NEWS International


Sony announced a new model in the A7 seriesa full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens system camerathe A7 II, which will be available in Japan from December 15. Th is camera features the worlds fi rst 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization system in a full-frame ILC, to compensate for yaw, pitch, roll and vertical and horizontal motion. Sony says it will have 4.5 stops advantage in image stabilization.

Th e A7 II has a 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor with 24 MP resolution, a Bionz X image processing engine, 2.36

SNIPPETS

Canon patents a camera body cap that cleans the contacts on the camera lens mount, every time the user removes and re-attaches the camera body cap.

Canon has introduced the imageFormula DR-120 offi ce document scanner, a versatile and easy-to-use device designed for business and home offi ce use. It features Automatic Document Feeder as well as a fl atbed, and has the ability to scan up to 20 pages or 36 pages per minute, or up to 800 documents per day.

Apple Inc. announced it will set up an R&D centre in Yokohama City, Japan. Th e worlds fi rst R&D centre outside the U.S.A, it is to be called Technical Development Centre and will be at the Minato Mirai area in Yokohama.

Panasonic has asked the US Supreme Court to kill Samsungs suit alleging that Panasonic restrained competition through a patent-licesning deal on secure digital memory cards, arguing that the complaint is time-barred by the Clayton Act.

Sony to launch full-frame mirrorless A7 II

(SAL70300G2) telephoto zoom lens for sports, portraits etc. Its AF tracking for moving subjects is 4 times faster than the current model, SAL70300G. It is splash and dust proof, and will be made available in February 2015.

million dot OLED EVF and a 3-inch tilting LCD monitor. Autofocus accuracy has been improved, and AF speed is some 30% faster than the predecessor, Sony A7. It measures 126.9x95.7x59.7mm, weighs 600 g and has Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity.

Th e company also announced a versatile A-mount 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G SSM II

JVC Kenwood announced that it will launch the GY-HM200, a new compact and lightweight 4K camcorder to record images on flash memory cards, for professionals. The GY-HM200 will be available from late February 2015.

The camcorder features a 12.4 MP 1/2.3-inch Type back-illuminated CMOS sensor, and the newly developed 12x (29.5-354mm f/1.2 in 35mm format) optical zoom lens. The camcorder captures and replays in 4K (3840x2160) resolution, 24/25/30p on SD cards. As the camcorder features double slots, recordings can be created on relay, dual as well as back-up. The USB-HOST terminal accepts various kinds of adapters for connection and remote operation via Wi-Fi.

JVC also announced a palm-sized professional camcorder with 4K resolution. According to the company, the GY-LS300 compact camcorder features a Micro Four-Thirds lens mount to accommodate the

largest possible variety of lenses and adapters without compromising on image quality. It has a Super 35 sensor as well as a 3.5-inch display with smart focus assist.

JVC to launch compact 4K camcorders

NEWS International


Canon Inc. began marketing their top-of-the-line high definition LCOS projector, the WUX6000, in the Japanese market on December 5, 2014. The new projector offers an LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) panel to project clear images with minimum grid lines on the screen. This makes it suitable for use in large conference rooms, digital signage or projection mapping.

The WUX6000 has a brightness of 6000 lumens, a resolution of WUXGA (1920x1200 dots) and its original optical AISYS system. The lens position programming allows the user to register up to three patterns of zooming and focussing positions, keystone, lens shift and aspect ratio, and the user can retrieve a necessary setting by a remote control unit.

The company has also readied five new projection lenses, which are available as an option. The worldwide business projector market in 2013 was some 7.3 million units and the Japanese market accounted for about

190,000 units. Canon projects the market growth to be flat at 7.4 million units worldwide, and 200,000 units in Japan. The demand for high resolution projectors of WUXGA class are expected to grow.

Canon launches flagship HD Projector

2015 World Press Photo contest open for entriesWorld Press Photo has invited all professional photojournalists and other visual storytellers worldwide to participate in the 58th annual photo contest and the 5th annual multimedia contest. The deadline for submissions for both contests is January 14, 2015. This year, there are a number of changes in the contest set-up, including the introduction of a category for long-term projects and a new procedure for assessing the post-processing of files. For further details, log on to: http://www.worldpressphoto.org/contest. Those who wish to participate can create a username and password till January 8, and submit their entries till January 14, 2015. World Press Photo receives support from the Dutch

Postcode Lottery and is sponsored worldwide by Canon.

An international jury of leading professionals in the field of photojournalism will judge the entries at the World Press Photo office in Amsterdam from the beginning of February, headed by Jury Chair Michele McNally, Assistant Managing Editor of The New York Times, who will also lead the News category. The jury chairs for the other themed categories, Sports, Nature, Portraits and Documentary are Mark Baker, Peter-Matthias Gaede, Alessia Glaviano and Donald Weber.

The results of the 2015 Photo Contest will be

announced on February 12, 2015. The jury will decide the first, second, and third prizes in all categories. First-prize winners in each category will receive a cash prize of 1,500 Euros. Winners of second and third prizes, and those receiving honourable mention, will receive a Golden Eye Award and a diploma. The Premier Award, the World Press Photo of the Year, carries a cash prize of 10,000 Euros. The annual Awards Days, a two-day celebration of the prizewinners, will take place in Amsterdam on April 24 and 25, 2015. The prize-winning pictures will be presented in an exhibition that will travel year-round to about 100 cities in 45 countries, starting with Amsterdam in De Nieuwe Kerk in April 2015.

NEWS International


Sony World Photography Awards Judges revealedOn December 10, 2014, the World Photography Organisation (WPO) announced the Honorary Judging Committee for this years professional competition of the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards.

Th e Honorary Judging Committee for this years professional competition comprises of industry leaders like Joanna Milter, Deputy Photo Editor, New York Times Magazine (USA), Matthew Leifh eit, Photo Editor, VICE Magazine (USA), Enrica Vigan, Curator and Writer (Italy), Xingxin Guo, Vice Director of New Media Department of Photo Center of Xinhua News Agency and

Editor-in-Chief of CICPHOTO (China), Oliver Schmitt, Photo Editor, Spiegel Online (Germany), Maria Pieri, Editorial Director, National Geographic Traveller, (UK) and Sasha Erwitt, Picture Editor (USA).

Entries to the Open and Youth competitions of the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards will close on January 5, 2015, followed by the deadline for the Professional competition on January 8. All competitions are free to enter via www.worldphoto.org

In the 2015 Awards, professional and enthusiast photographers will compete

across 25 categories for cash prizes and latest digital imaging equipment from Sony. One professional photographer will be awarded the title of LIris dOr / Sony World Photography Awards Photographer of the Year at the prestigious Sony World Photography Awards Gala Ceremony to be held in London April 23, 2015. All winning and fi nalist photographers will have their work exhibited at Somerset House, London from April 24 May 10, 2015 as part of the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition and published in the 2015 edition of the Sony World Photography Awards book. Further details can be found at www.worldphoto.org.

Velbon markets new compact tripod headsVelbon Corp. began offering a new compact tripod head, dubbed cu head, in November. The compact cu head measures 58x25x50mm, and is suitable to hold a compact camera or action camera weighing up to 400g. The camera can be swiftly and securely attached by a dial operation. Made with magnesium alloy, the lightweight tripod head is only 106g. The cu head (#4907990306746) is priced at 4,000 Yen.

Velbon also launched a small head for tilting the camera, the THD-23, at a suggested price of 2,000 Yen. The camera angle can

be easily fixed by screwing a stopper on the side. It measures 34x17x45mm, and can be used on a monopod as well. The head holds cameras weighing up to 500g.

NEWS International


Manfrotto is marketing a compact and lightweight head suitable for shooting movies, the XPRO Fluid Head in Japanese markets at a suggested list price of 20,200 Yen. Th e head is made of its original polymer Adapto and alumina to make it lightweight (740g). Yet it can hold a camera up to 4kg. Th e head moves very smoothly, and the user can choose whether he wants strong or soft fl uid movements.

Manfrotto off ers compact tripod head for video cameras

Transcend launches SDXC UHS-I Speed Cards for 3D and 4K video recording

Huawei announces Honor 6 Plus Smartphone with 3 cameras

On December 15, 2014, Transcend Information Inc. launched the 256GB large capacity SDXC UHS-I cards. Th ey off er full support for the Ultra High Speed Class 3 (U3) specifi cation, and read and write speeds of up to 95MB/s and 60MB/s. In devices that do not support the UHS-I specifi cation, Transcends SDXC UHS-I U3 cards off er constant write speeds of at least 10MB/s (SD Speed Class 10 performance). Th e cards also provide a large

storage capacity to save all the high-resolution 3D, 4K and full HD recordings.

Th e 256GB SDXC UHS-I U3 card can store more than 40,000 high resolution JPEG images (12 MP camera, 6MB fi le size), over 16,000 RAW images (of

14MB fi le size), or 16 hours of 4K Ultra HD footage (4096x2160 35Mb/s H.264 AVC compression). Th e cards feature Transcends exclusive RecoveRx soft ware, which also off ers SD Card Formatting and Data Protection functions. Th ese memory cards are fully tested for compatibility and reliability, and carry Transcends lifetime warranty. Th e SDXC UHS-I U3 cards are available in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB capacities.

On December 16, 2014, Huawei announced the Honor 6 Plus Smartphone in its Honor series line-up, which features three 8 MP cameras. One serves as a front camera, and the other two are placed side-by-side on the back side of the phone. Th e dual back cameras allow refocussing of previously captured images. Huawei says that the look of the images can be adjusted to resemble pictures taken at apertures from f/0.95 to f/16. Th e Honor 6 Plus off ers a variety of eff ect fi lters, such as

tilt-shift , sketch and comics.

Th e phone has a 5.5-inch 1080p LCD screen. It features Android 4.4.4 and Huaweis EMUI 3.0, and is powered by a Kirin 925 octa-core chipset and a low-power I3 coprocessor. Th e Honor 6 Plus comes with 3GB of RAM and up to 32GB of internal storage. It has a 3600 mAh capacity battery and dual SIM capability, one of which also functions as a micro SD slot that accepts cards of up to 128GB capacity.


NEWS Business

Panasonic reported that it posted a 21% year-on-year gain in operating profit for the first half of the fiscal year, ending on September 20, 2014, to 177 billion Yen on a total revenue of 3.723 trillion Yen, almost even from the previous years revenue of 3.706 trillion Yen. Net profit fell by 52% to 80.9 billion Yen from 169.3 billion Yen from a year earlier.

The company has successfully

shifted their business strategy to Automotive and Industrial Systems, whose sales rose by 2% to 1.378 trillion Yen. Home Appliance sales rose by 1% to 916 billion Yen with a 141% gain in operation, thanks to profitable device products such as motors and Eco Solutions centering on solar panels. Housing systems posted a 790 billion Yen sale, a 2% gain with operating profit of 41.8 billion Yen, up by 6%. The AVC Networks division secured

operating profit of 3.9 billion Yen from a loss of 2.4 billion a year earlier; their sales dropped by 3% to 531.6 billion Yen because of withdrawal from the plasma panel business and slimming down of digital camera models.

The company revised profits in operation and net profit to 350 billion Yen and 175 billion Yen respectively. The total revenue is expected to be level at 7.750 trillion Yen.

Tamron Co. said their sales for the first 9 months of fiscal 2014, ending on September 30 rose by 5.1% year-on-year to 51.12 billion Yen and profit in operation rose from 12.4% to 4.348 billion Yen. The net profit rose by 9.1% to 2.74 billion Yen.

In the midst of the shrinking interchangeable lens market as a whole, the company posted a 7% gain in this segment to 36.675 billion Yen, thanks to the performance of the 150-600mm (Model A011) and 16-300mm (Model B016) lenses. The operating profit rose by 26.9% to 4.073 billion Yen.

Fujifilms stock recently rose to the highest level in more than six years at Tokyo Exchange, after a French Ebola patient who was given Fujifilm Avigan drug with other experimental treatment, was sent home from the hospital. The patient, a French nurse who was a volunteer for Doctors Without Borders, got infected with the virus while on a mission in Liberia. Fujifilm confirmed in September 2014 that Avigan, its influenza drug, was being given to an Ebola patient in a French hospital with other medication. As there are no approved Ebola cures, doctors and international agencies have been forced to test experimental treatments to fight the deadly virus that has killed thousands in West Africa.

Panasonic posts 21% gain in operating profit for the first half of 2014

Tamrons posts profit rise for Jan-Sept period

Fujifilm stock level rises after use of drug for Ebola patient

Fujifilms first-half operating profit up by 20%Fujifilm Holdings operating profit rose by about 20% in the April-September period, as their digital camera business escaped out from the red, due to a shift in focus to high-end models. The group operating profit has reached 70 billion Yen (US $656 million). Sales stayed close to the previous years level of 1.17 trillion Yen. The company has cut back

on low-priced compacts and added higher priced models, such as mirrorless cameras. The segment had suffered a loss of several billion Yen ( about US $38-40 million) in the same period during the past year. In addition the instant Checki cameras have sold well in North America, Europe, Taiwan and South Korea, particularly among young consumers.

Apart from cameras, Fujifilm

did brisk business in photoresist materials and polishing slurries used in semi-conductor manufacturing. There was growth in ultrasound scanners and other medical equipment, and a steady performance in office devices such as colour printers. Meanwhile, the groups pharmaceutical business appears to have remained in the red owing to hefty research and development costs.

Hoya Corp. announced that their net profit for the first half (April-Sept) of 2014 rose by 80% to 45.2 billion Yen, on a total revenue of 234.3 billion Yen, up by 16%. Profit before tax rose by 57% to 56.7 billion Yen.

Sales of information and communication products segment rose to 11.7% to 87

billion Yen and before-tax profit rose to 70.2% to 17.69 billion Yen. The semi-conductor-related and LCD-related products performed well, thanks to the expanding Smartphone and Tablet sales, to Chinese and Taiwanese manufacturers in particular. Camera lenses for compact cameras and interchangeable lens cameras

dropped significantly due to rapid dissemination of Smartphones. However, glass lens materials sold favourably, thereby contributing to the revenue and profit for this segment. The Life Care business also performed well and posted an 18.2% gain in sales, and a before-tax profit of 24.2%.

Hoyas first-half net profit rises by 80%

Fujifilms first-half operating profit up by 20%


NEWS Business

Seiko Epson announced that their net profit for the first half of fiscal 2014 more than tripled to 65.5 billion Yen on a revenue of 512.8 billion Yen, up by 9% year-on-year. The company expects the net profit for the entire year, ending in March 2015, to come to 111 billion Yen, up by 32%

year-on-year. The total revenue is estimated at 1.050 trillion Yen, up by 5% year-on-year and 20 billion Yen more than the previous estimates. The company attributed this performance to a high demand for inkjet printers with a larger ink tank targeted towards emerging

markets and higher-end models in the industrialised countries. Projector sales are expanding in North American and Asian markets for educational use. The company expects a 66% gain in operating profit to 132 billion Yen, and net profit to 110 billion Yen, up by 32%.

Sony Corp. announced that their sales for the first six months ending on September 30, 2014, rose by 6.5% to 3.711 trillion Yen. Significant increase in the Games and Network Services segment and the favourable impact of foreign exchange rates contributed to this.

The company reported an operating loss of 15.8 billion Yen, compared to the operating income of 49.4 billion Yen during the same period in the previous year. This deterioration was primarily due to the impairment of goodwill of 176 billion Yen, as recorded by the Mobile Communications

segment. This was partially offset by significant improvements in the Games and Network Services, Imaging and Product Solutions, Home Entertainment and Sound, Pictures and Financial Services segments. Net loss increased by 92.7 billion Yen year-on-year to 109.2 billion Yen.

Nikon Corp. expects the net profit for the first six months of fiscal 2014 to come up to 10 billion Yen, 6 billion more than

the previous outlook, thanks to faster restructuring in the Precision Equipment segment. Performance in the digital camera section was

better due to the shift in higher-priced products. Sales of medium-level products in the D-SLR camera section were better than expected.

As the tide is turning in favour of brick-and-mortar retail stores, the largest online retailer, Amazon.com plans to open its first brick-and-mortar retail store at 7 West 34 Street, New York City, across the Empire State Building. Amazon has built the online retail business on competitive pricing and fast shipping. Until now, Amazon could not compete with the immediacy of traditional retail stores. Amazon also may consider using the retail space to showcase inventory, particularly its devices like the Kindle e-readers, Fire Smartphones, or Fire TV set-top boxes.

Panasonic to close Blu-Ray and DVD player plantPanasonic will shut down their Blu-Ray and DVD player plant in eastern Slovakia as a result of declining sales. The factory in the town of Krombapachy, which employs 650 workers, will be closed on December 31, 2014. The traditional TV and DVD industry has taken a hit due to increase in online video streaming services like Netflix, Tablets and large Smartphones.

Epson posts gain in profits on increased revenue for first-half of 2014

Sony still suffers from Mobile Communications business

Nikon expects 10 billion Yen in net income

Amazon.com to open first store in New York

Panasonic to close Blu-Ray and DVD player plant

Tamron Co. announced that it achieved a cumulative production of ultra telephoto zoom lenses to reach the 5 million unit mark as of September 2014. The company first introduced

its AF 28-200mm f/3.8-5.6 aspherical lens in 1992, and has added advanced technologies of Vibration Compensation (VC), ultra-sonic motor PZD (Piezo Drive) and lightweight and

compact configuration. In 2014, the company added the 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro for APS-C size D-SLRs, the 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD for full size D-SLRs and the 14-

150mm f/3.5-5.8 Di III for Micro Four-Thirds mirrorless cameras. The company began marketing the 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro for APS-C size D-SLRs for Sony mounts on October 30.

Tamrons Telephoto Zoom lens production reaches 5 million unit mark

www.smartphotography.in

NEWS National

22 Smart Photography January 2015

The Indian Institute of Photography (IIP) organized a workshop in Ahmedabad, Gujarat ,on November 8 and 9, 2014. The two-day workshop received an immense response from the city. It was conducted by veteran photographer and core faculty of IIP, Amit Chawla. The first days session included interactive tutorials in photography techniques and image manipulation such as Meaning and Science of Light in Photography, Types/Genres of Photography, Exposure Triangle (Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO), Basic Tools and

Interface Of Popular Image Manipulation Software etc.

The second dayss module focused on the practical aspect of a shoot, aesthetic photography and photo review that mainly emphasize on the use of aperture, creative use of shutter speed, shooting with different ISO settings, depth of field (concept, importance, factors) and rules of composition (including framing, camera angle, symmetry and balance, negative and positive spaces, using spirals, rule of thirds and geometric mean).

The students also visited the Kankaria Lake, the biggest lake in Ahmedabad, which has many public attractions such as a zoo, water park and entertainment facilities. The

two-day photography workshop at Ahmedabad was an enriching experience for budding photographers and helped boost their confidence and knowledge in the long run.

IIP organizes workshop at Ahmedabad

International Photo Exhibition on UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Venus Eco Photo Book

Essen Communications is organizing an International Photo Exhibition on UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India and abroad from January 9 to 11, 2015 at Alliance Francaise de Bangalore.

Conceptualized, curated and co-ordinated by Susheela Nair, Director, Essen Communications, the proposed photo exhibition will showcase more than 120

photographs on World Heritage sites, taken by photographers, heritage buffs and various Tourism Boards. This is the first of its kind in the country. The event will be attended by travel agents, tour operators adventure enthusiasts, the photography fraternity, expatriates, corporate executives, educational institutions, stakeholders in tourism as well as the public.

Venus Photo Albums, launched in 1976, now reaches around 250 million customers around the globe.

Venus Photo album will be launching Venus eco photo book soon, which will be printed on Asias first newly launched HP Indigo WS6000p Digital Press. This model has expanded colour capabilities by up to 7 ink stations and delivers prints of the highest quality that match, or

even exceed silver halide(AgX) quality. It offers a fully digital automatic binding and finishing technique for 36-inch long and 180 degree flat panorama prints, without a single visible joint. It can be printed on different quality papers such as coated pearl deep leather and silver paper, silk premium texture, HD glass metallic, HD glossy and silk matt, medium super gloss, metallicm and non-tearable metallic papers.


NEWS National


On December 12, 2014, Dhaval Colour Chem, one of Indias largest Textile Printing Solutions company inaugurated its first specialized dye sublimation printing Experience Zone in Mumbai. Spread over 10,000 sq feet, the state-of-the-art Zxperience Zone houses the latest dye sublimation printers from Epson, the world leader in digital imaging. Targeting the textile and garment industry the experience zone also aims to provide creative solutions for architects, interior designers, photographers and gift

manufacturers. The facility gives an opportunity to the industry to experience the future of the printing world, expand their business lines and cater to the growing global demand for top quality solutions.

Epson has recently launched dye sublimation printers that make short run printing on fabrics a reality. Garment exporters, fashion designers, sports garment manufacturers, interior decorators and even soft signage manufacturers will be the target users of these printers. Apart from the textile

industry these dye sublimation printers can also be used to print on a variety of different substrates like glass, wood, ceramic and metal and fabric. This makes them useful for applications like specialty photo printing, customized kitchen cabinets, personalized home furnishings, unique gift articles and more. Photographers, interior designers, architects and gift manufacturers can explore their creativity and expand their business using these solutions.

The Oriental theme Caf, Stylized Retail Space, Royal Wedding Zone and Fantasy Kids Room are some of the attractions within the DCCs experience zone. The purpose of this concept is the ability to let people see, touch and feels the magical and imaginative usage of printing technology. It is also meant to educate prospective customers about the various possible applications of dye-sublimation printers and provide a hands-on experience to sample and experiment with their designs and ideas. In this experience

center, prospective customers can find the entire work flow of dye-sublimation powered by Epson SureColor F 6070 / 7170 printers, Coldenhov Transfer paper and Monti Antonio transfer machines.

Speaking on the occasion Dhaval Dadia, ED of Dhaval Colour Chem said, Our vision is to lead the future of printing solutions and delight customers in every aspect with the finest technology, services and exceptional customer support. We want our clients to come and discover the business possibilities in different industries like hospitality, home dcor, retail, and sports-wear. Thats how the concept of the Experience Zone was born. The printing solutions from Epson provide quality, convenience and scope to expand creativity and business like never before to a wide variety of customers. We are extremely excited to be able to drive this new printing technology in India. Epson India President and CEO, Mr. Toshiyuki Kasai who was present added This experience zone is amazing and will over

time, I hope, become the go-to place for anyone with specialized creative printing needs both on fabric as well as on other long lasting substrates.

Epson partners with Dhaval Colour Chem to create experience zone for Dye-Sublimation Printing Solutions

Royal Wedding Zone Oriental Theme Cafe

Mr. Narendra Dadia - MD of DCC and Epson India President & CEO, Mr Toshiyuki Kasai


NEWS National


Microsoft launches Lumia 535 in India On November 26, 2014, Microsoft Devices launched the affordable model Microsoft Lumia 535 featuring the latest Windows 8.1 operating system with Lumia Denim. It has a 1905 mAh battery and a 1.2 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 processor. This phone offers a wide-angle 5 MP front-facing camera, a 5-inch display with sunlight readability and Gorilla Glass 3 protection, and is available at a best buy price of Rs.9,199. It will be available in the colours of bright green, bright orange, white and black.

Aimed at young Smartphone users, the company says this phone offers five great Nokia experiencesSkype video calls and seamless switching between voice and video with built-in Skype integration; free and pre-installed Office Suite; an Xbox app with Live avatar and gamer profile available on the go; 15 GB of free OneDrive cloud

storage and built-in Microsoft Outlook. The phone also offers a 5MP wide-angle camera that takes better selfies and has the Smart Dual SIM feature for maximum flexibility.

Bhaskar Pramanik, Chairman of Microsoft India said, Today we have consumers in India for whom the mobile phone is not only their primary device, but sometimes the only device they use. Microsoft is

committed to delivering the power of everyday mobile technology to everyone through its devices and services such as OneDrive, Outlook, Skype, Bing, Outlook, MSN and Xbox Live which power them. The new Microsoft Lumia 535 sets the benchmark in bringing the best of the Windows Phone ecosystem at an accessible price point to consumers in India.

Speaking at the launch, Raghuvesh Sarup, Director - Marketing, Nokia India Sales Pvt. Ltd. (a subsidiary of Microsoft Mobile Oy) said, Innovation should be available to everyone and our

endeavour is to make it accessible through our range of affordable Lumia devices. Younger tech-involved audiences are increasingly looking at an uncompromised experience on their Smartphones. With access to the best services right out of the box at a price they can afford, we believe that the Lumia 535 is an ideal solution to offer young India.

K G Maheshwari passes awayIconic pictorial and portrait photographer, K G Maheshwari passed away on December 4, 2014, at the age of 92. For his vast contribution to the field of photography, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting of India had conferred a Lifetime Achievement Award on him. He has several other awards to his name and has written papers and articles on the subject of photography. Mr. Maheshwari also dedicated his time in conducting workshops and teaching

photography, and was a member of the Honors Committees of the India International Photographic Council as well as the Photographic Society of India. We at Smart Photography offer our deepest condolences to his loved ones.

On December 10, 2014, Sony India announced the launch of the new SxS series memory cards, for semi-professional and professional videographers. The new SxS PRO+ and SxS-1 offer ultra-high transfer speeds to enable users to work more effectively.The SxS series comes with an advanced interface of PCI Express Generation 2 and a newly developed intelligent controller. The SxS PRO+ delivers transfer speeds of 3.5Gbps (440MB/s) (read) and 2.8Gbps (350MB/s) (write). The SxS-1 has a transfer speed of 3.5Gbps (440MB/s, read). The new SxS PRO+ and SxS-1, when used with the new SxS Reader Writer

(SBAC-US30.UT100) and PSZ SSD series, reduce transfer times even for large, data-intensive 4K video files. The SxS series has features like data-error correction, wear-leveling (data-defect minimizing) and data

refreshing functions for secure data recording. It also has several manufacturing control functions. The SxS PRO+ and SxS-1 cards are dust-proof and highly durable. The SBS-32G1A SYM and SBS-64G1A SYM cards will be available from February 2015 at Rs.22,000 and Rs.36,000 respectively. The SBP-64B SYM PRO + and SBP-128B SYM PRO + are currently available at the prices of Rs.51,875 and Rs.82,625

Sony releases SxS Series Memory Cards

Krishna Gopal Maheshwari, 1922 - 2014


NEWS National


On November 21, 2014, Transcend Information Inc announced the launch of the StoreJet for Mac (SJM) series. Exclusively for Mac, Transcends SJM100 Portable Hard Drive, SJM300 Portable Hard Drive and SJM500 Portable Solid State Drive (SSD) offer great storage space and fast data transfer speeds. In addition, all three models are natively formatted in HFS+ and fully support the Time Machine back-up software application.

Transcend says the SJM100 portable hard drive meets rigorous U.S. military drop-test standards. The outer shell is made of a slip-resistant silicone material, reinforced by an internal hard drive suspension damper, offering maximum shock-absorption. It offers an additional 2TB of storage space to save up to 512 hours of full HD video, over 32,000

hours of digital music, or more than 960,000 high resolution digital images. The SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface offers better transfer rates and provides 10 times the bandwidth of USB 2.0. When used with Transcend Elite software, users can instantly back up and synchronize data with their notebook or desktop PC.

The SJM300 portable hard drive and SJM500 portable SSD offer transfer rates of up to 10 GB/s. Both the models are also equipped with a SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port (SJM500 with UASP support for even higher transfer rates), providing 10 times the bandwidth of USB 2.0. All models of the StoreJet for Mac series include Transcend

Elite, a user-friendly application for data management and encryption and protecting data. This comes with Transcends three-year limited warranty.

Transcend launches StoreJet for Mac Series

The Story of Light Festival GoaThe Story of Light (SOL) Festival, Indias first science-meets-art festival is being held in Panaji, Goa from January 14 18, 2015, in partnership with the Corporation of the City of Panjim. The festival has been conceptualised under the aegis of The International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies, 2015 (IYL 2015), a project of the United Nations which aims to raise awareness about the break-throughs in light science, its applications and its importance to humankind.45 artists and scientists from around the world will put up installations in the public spaces of Goa. The festival line-up of includes a diverse mix of artists who will explore the numerous facets of light through installations, performances and workshops. The program will have visual play, dance performances, installations with light and colour, photography workshops, and live projections.

The festival is not for profit and is free for all to attend. It expects to draw close to 1,00,000 visitors, including school and college students, local residents and tourists, both foreign and national. The festival committee has also launched its crowd-funding campaign on Indiegogo, to raise a part of its funds. The line-up and further details are available on www.thestoryoflight.org

Creative Peripherals has entered into a partnership agreement with PhotoFast as their exclusive India-authorized distributor to provide a high-quality product line that will

benefit both the companies. PhotoFast is a global innovator in speciality storage technology. i-FlashDrive EVO will be available in the following capacities: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB. For further details, please contact: [email protected]

i-FlashDrive EVO to release in India

PICTURE OF THE MONTH

1. Th e picture has to be horizontal.2. Kindly ensure that the longer side should measure atleast 17 inches, at 300ppi.3. Low resolution images will not be accepted.4. We do not check images on online galleries.

5. Kindly ensure complete contact/address details are provided. Winners will have to collect their prize from SPs Mumbai offi ce or send an authorised representative to do so.6. Please make sure that your picture does not have your name/logo on it.

A NOTE TO OUR READERS

PICTURE OF THE MONTHWe are sure that all of you have a few pictures that you think are prize worthy. It happens very oft en that you dont know where to send the image that could put a feather in your cap. If you have such images (were sure you have many!), send us ONE such horizontal image. If it qualifi es, we shall publish it as a double-spread. a. You have to guarantee that the picture

was shot by youb. If there are people in the picture who can

be identifi ed, well need a model releasec. Th e picture should not have been printed

elsewhere (magazine newspaper, or off ered to any publication)

d. Mark the entry as Picture of the Month and rename the fi le using your name

e. You may send images via print/e-mail to: Next Gen Publishing Ltd.,2nd Floor, C Wing, Trade World, Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400013 (or) [email protected]

WIN!Sedona 51

Camera Bag

Sponsored by:

Photograph by

Kuntal Murmu

KALEIDOSCOPE Finally, a platform for budding photographers to exhibit their talent and GET NOTICED!

www.smartphotography.in34 Smart Photography January 2015

Lifetime Devoted to Photography Early start

Camera: Nikon D200; Aperture : f/5.6;

Shutter speed: 1/125sec.; ISO: 250

www.smartphotography.in January 2015 Smart Photography 35

Musini Venkateswara Rao, also known as Babulu, was born on February 19, 1958. His father, Babu Rao was a known photographer in their hometown, and he inherited the talent for photography from him. Aft er completing his schooling in 1973, Rao joined his father, and started assisting him in studio assignments. Currently, he runs the family studio successfully, and has earned a reputation for his creative approach. Apart from this, he has worked as a photojournalist with many reputed publications. His projects have been well recognized. In 1991, he was appreciated by then Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Sri Krishnakanth for excellence in photojournalism.

Since Babulu was inclined towards pictorial photography, he joined the Photographic Association of Andhra Pradesh. Th is helped him polish his skills as a pictorial photographer. Soon he started participating in distinguished art photography contests. His fi rst achievement at a national level contest was in the year 1980, at Kakinada, when his photographs were accepted for display. Th is success boosted his courage. Since then, he has received more than 2600 acceptances and around 450 awards in National and International contests. Several photography bodies have honoured him for his fi ne skills. He has been on the jury of numerous photography contests. Many associations have invited him as a guest faculty for their photography workshops.

Musini Venkateswara Rao, Rajahmundry

By the well Camera: Nikon D7000;

Aperture : f/9; Shutter speed: 1/200sec.; ISO: 400


Kailash Kher Camera: Canon 5D MK IIILens Canon 24-70mmAperture : f/5.6; Shutter speed: 1/160sec.; ISO: 1600

Folk Dance Camera: Nikon D70s; Aperture : f/7.1; Shutter speed: 1/200sec.; ISO: 100

Huddle Camera: Nikon D200;

Aperture : f/5.6; Shutter speed: 1/350sec.;

ISO: 320


Beauty Camera: Nikon D70s; Aperture : f/5; Shutter speed: 1/80sec.; ISO: 100

Grandchildren Camera: Nikon D200; Aperture : f/6.3; Shutter speed: 1/160sec.; ISO: 1600

Make hay while the sun shines Camera: Nikon D200;

Aperture : f/14; Shutter speed: 1/125sec.;

ISO: 200

SHOWCASE


Saurabh Botre is an animal lover and pet photographer based in Pune. He can be contacted on [email protected]. He is also eager to donate his services to animal shelters.

Photographs are created by the vision of the photographer. To most teenagers, it implies taking selfies and uploading them online. Just like owning a paint brush doesnt make you a painter, owning a camera doesnt make you a photographer. It is an art that

FUR PAWS

As told to Tanika Godbole

requires immense dedication, and develops over a period of time.

My name is Saurabh Botre and Im a student of Bachelor of Fine Art (photography). I have a very deep interest in pet photography and film making. I can trace my interest in

photography back to the good old days when Id pester my dad to let me click photos using his old Kodak film camera. Slowly, I graduated from the Kodak to a Cybershot. I used to capture photographs at animal adoption camps that I volunteered for. I have been in love with photography


The big and the little

since I was 15; and have been obsessed with animals since childhood. I can now happily say that I love what I do.

I really love animals. I have always been immensely

delighted by them and even as a kid I would be found hanging out with a pup or a little kitty. It was such a natural progression to become a pet photographer. I still have that childlike sense

Nap time

Sitting pretty

SHOWCASE


In vogue

Litter of puppies


of wonder and appreciation for animals, and that endless enthusiasm and love that reflects in my photographs. Pets, over my lifetime have taught me unconditional love, responsibility, patience, and especially, how to live in the present moment. They are incredible friends. I cannot imagine life without them!

In my opinion pets should be given more importance, and they deserve more attention. Having owned a pet has changed my life in many a ways, both as an individual and as a photographer.

I have recently started pet photography services in and around Pune by the name of BlackDog Studios. I am sure there are pet owners who are just as enthusiastic about the furry members of their family as I am. Photographing a pet that has a tail and doesnt slither would be my preference.

Our pets dont spend much time with us on earth. I think its only appropriate to honour the personality and spirit of their life while they are here with us. I love to steal the perfect emotion of pure love and frame it, for one to cherish it for a long time.

Pet photography isnt as easy as it seems though. It requires tremendous amount of patience. Sometimes the pet may not co-operate with what you think would be a perfect pose. It can also be a mess while shooting in a studio. An 80-90kg St. Bernard might knock off a light strobe with a wag of his tail! You also need to consider the type of clothes to wear while going for a shoot. Be assured that there would be traces of dog hair and drool on it!

Puppy love

Playing fetch

IF I WERE YOUE-mail your images at [email protected]


Leading InRaman C. from Vishakapatnam has very recently started with photography. He says, I love to see good pictures. I photographed this scene using the camera of my friend who was with me on this trip. He asked me not to disturb the settings and so I shot the picture with whatever settings were there on the camera. At first I was very happy but now I feel that something is lacking in the picture. He wants to know how to improve it.

I like the framing it leads the eye into the picture!

Exposing correctly for such high-contrast scenes is always a tricky affair. If you expose correctly for the scene outside, the inside area will get too dark (underexpose). If you expose correctly for the

Rohinton Mehta,Technical Editor, Smart Photography

Our Imaging ExpertNo one can take a picture that everyone likes. But, almost every picture can have scope of improvement. Often, we are not our best critics, while others can immediately point out the faults. In If I were you, our expert comments on how your pictures could be taken to another level.

Camera: Nikon D40; Lens: 18-55mm kit lens Aperture: f/9; Shutter speed: 1/30sec; ISO: 400

Edited Image 1

Original Image

proper registration of the two images during post-processing).

In the edited picture, I adjusted the contrast as best as I could using the Shadows/Highlights tool in Photoshop, though I still see lack of detail in the highlighted area. I also applied some sharpening.

interior, the outside scene will be overexposed. In this picture the shadow area is underexposed and at the same time the highlighted area is badly overexposed. If I were you, I would have taken two pictures (using my own camera), one correctly exposed for the dark area and the other, correctly exposed for the bright area (but using the same aperture). Later on, I would have blended the two pictures using an image editing program. It goes without saying that a tripod would be required (two consecutive shots at different exposures could be taken hand-held but using a tripod assures


At Golconda FortThis picture shot at Golconda Fort in Hyderabad during sunset time is by V. V. Rao of Secunderabad who admits that he is not a regular reader of Smart Photography. He wants to know why the picture is so dark and what is the remedy?

The fort and the foreground area are underexposed. To maintain some detail in an otherwise bald sky, you may have pointed the camera towards the sky during metering and this could be the reason for the underexposure of the fort and foreground.

If I were you, I would have paid more attention to the exposure metering. I would have metered off the background without including the sky. The background (see the edited image) has some dark tones and some light tones, which average out to a mid-tone. And mid-tone is a good area to meter from.

Since we cannot go back in time, I used Photoshop to improve the picture. I opened the picture in Adobe Camera Raw which is a part and parcel of Photoshop even though it is not from a Raw file. In the Basic tab, I moved the Shadows slider to the right to open up the blocked shadows. Note that opening up of shadows can increase digital noise, so be careful. Dont go overboard. Next, I increased the Clarity (using the Clarity slider) to my liking. This was followed by moving the Vibrance slider to the extreme right to bring in some sunset tone in the sky.

I then transferred the image to Photoshop and straightened the slight tilt on the structure. Finally, I sharpened the image.

Edited Image

Original Image

Camera: Canon 1100D Lens: 18-55mm kit lens

Aperture: f/4.5; Shutter speed: 1/60sec;

ISO: 100;

IF I WERE YOUE-mail your images at [email protected]


Note: If I Were You is meant to encourage and guide readers, and help them improve their photography. Please ensure that the required camera/exposure details are sent to us (or are available in the EXIF data). We shall not accept images for this section if the required data is not available. Readers are requested to send their images at 300ppi for 8 x 10-inch size. If they are too small, working on them is difficult, and hence they may be rejected.

Matheran SceneThis picture by Santosh Pawar from Mumbai has been taken in Matheran, a hill-station about 100kms from Mumbai. Santosh says that the picture on the camera LCD appeared brighter than the picture seen on the computer screen. He also wants to know how this picture could be improved.

Well, Santosh, pictures always look

Camera: Sony: RX1 Aperture: f/11; Shutter speed:1/200 sec; ISO: 100;

Original Image

Edited Image

brighter on the cameras LCD as compared to the same image on a computer screen. While you may defi nitely check the pictures on the LCD, its better to learn how to judge the images using the histogram and the highlights overexposure warning (the blinkies)

Th e picture looks dull simply because it was taken in the late evening when the sky was overcast

and the light was lacking in contrast. Quality of light is the single most important factor for a good picture.

In the edited picture, I have increased the contrast and clarity using Photoshop and this seems to have improved the shot. I can see some blue tone on the water and the ground but since shadow areas always have a blue tint in them, I have left them alone.

Q&AAsk Uncle Ronnie


About SharpnessWhat are thetheoretical / practical diff erences between lens sharpness andimage sharpness? Does image mean printedimage or on-screen image?

V. K. Ramesh, Indian Overseas Bank, Bhubaneshwar.

When we talk of sharpness, we are referring to the clarity of detail in a picture. Sharpness is dependent on various factors the camera body, lens, aperture in use, shutter speed, ISO (to an extent), the enlargement factor and also the picture viewing distance. Good post-processing techniques can add to this feeling of sharpness.

When we refer to lens sharpness, we are actually referring to acutance, that is, how abrupt or how gradual the transition is between edges.

Did you know... Ronnie has over 35 years of experience in photography? In fact, he has taught several thousand photo-enthusiasts in various institutions and through workshops, as well as judged many national and international photo contests, including the prestigious International Photo Contest held at Colombo, Sri Lanka. So, if you have any photo-queries, whether conventional or digital, dont hesitate. Just go ahead and Ask Uncle Ronnie at [email protected], cause he knows it all!

ask similar questions) were to mention the preferred make and/or budget instead of just implying a tight budget. A tight budget could mean different amounts to different people.

Here are two low-budget D-SLR cameras that I can recommend:Canon EOS 1200DNikon D3100As far as lenses go (especially for bird photography), I am afraid you would have to seriously extend your budget (anything between Rs.75,000 and 1,50,000). Th ere are several options, depending on which camera manufacturer you decide on. And without the required details, it is very diffi cult for me to advice you correctly.

Best Pick?Which is the best pick between Sony Cybershot DSC-HX400V, Nikon Coolpix P600 and Canon Powershot SX60HS? If comparison can be elaborated in terms of autofocus, metering, noise control, sharpness, design and others, then it will be easy to decide. I love to shoot birds

Image sharpness is dependent on the combination of lens quality as well as the quality of the imaging sensor.

Photographically speaking, the term image can mean the projected form of the original subject on to fi lm or imaging sensor. In practical terms, image is used to mean a photograph, sketch, drawing, painting etc. So coming back to your question, an image can mean a printed picture as well as the picture you see on a computer screen.

Low-budget camera for B-I-F?I am an amateur photographer having interest in bird photography. I want to change my camera. Please suggest a budget D-SLR and zoom/telephoto lens. I want to shoot birds in fl ight. I want a camera that can focus fast, a zoom lens which focusses fast. Both camera and lens should be undertight budget.

Bhupesh Kumar, Patiala

It would make my life easier if you (and other readers who

Canon EOS 1200D Nikon D3100

High acutance

Low acutance


Q&AAsk Uncle Ronnie

Canon SX60 HS Nikon P600 Sony HX400VPixel rating 16.1 megapixel 16.1 megapixel 20.4 megapixelMRP Rs.35,995.00 Rs.23,950.00 Rs.26,990.00Zoom range 21-1365mm equivalent 24-1440mm equivalent 24-1200mm equivalentAperture range F/3.4-6.5 F/3.3-6.5 F/2.8-6.3Sensor size 1/2.3 Type

(6.16x4.62mm)1/2.3 Type (6.16x4.62mm)

1/2.3 Type (6.16x4.62mm).

Observe that all are super tele-zooms. Lets consider the smallest zoom of the three. At 1200mm equivalent, the magnification over a 50mm lens (which is considered as the standard lens in 35mm format) would be 24x. While thats great news, do remember that any hand-shake will also be magnified 24 times! With all the three models, in spite of the image stabilization, it is likely that many of your pictures may not be as sharp as you may want them. Also consider atmospheric haze and pollution which can further act to reduce image sharpness with far-away subjects. Observe also that the image sensor in all the three models is very small. This translates into more noise and lower dynamic range. The next thing to consider is the lens speed. Once you cross a certain focal length, the slow nature of the lens (in all three models) and subjects in shade will force you

on tree-tops and flower macro.Manish Sitlani, via email

To be able to satisfactorily answer your query, we need to have the three cameras in question and do a detailed side-by-side comparison. Unfortunately that is not possible since we do not have the said cameras with us. Given below are some very important specifications for you to consider:

to use higher ISO sensitivities. This in turn will make the images noisy.

If at gun point I was forced to choose, I would possibly opt for the Sony HX400V since its lens is fast at the wide-angle end and since it has the shortest zoom!

AF PointsI understand that autofocus

sensors could be horizontal or cross-type. Nikon D7000 has horizontal and cross-type AF sensors but Sony 6000 has phase detect and contrast detect autofocus. Are they the same? Please explain.

Manish P. Sitlani, Vadodara, Gujarat

1. AF sensors could be horizontal or vertical or cross-type. They have nothing to do with phase-detect or contrast-detect AF system. With horizontal AF sensors, focussing on vertical elements is easy (while focussing on horizontal elements is difficult). With vertical AF sensors, focussing on horizontal elements is easy (while focussing on vertical elements is difficult). With cross-type AF sensors it is easy to focus on either a horizontal or vertical element in the frame.

Canon Powershot SX60HS

Sony Cybershot DSC-HX400V

Nikon Coolpix P600

Horizontally placed AF sensors; central cross-type

Vertically placed AF sensors; central cross-type

Q&AAsk Uncle Ronnie


2. Phase-detect and Contrast-detect autofocus systems are two different methods of achieving autofocus. Just for information, when you autofocus through the viewfinder in a D-SLR, you are using phase-detect system; when you autofocus using the LCD, you are using contrast-detect system.

Alternative to Nikon 18-105mm lensI am a scientist by profession. I am very fond of photography and have a Nikon D7000 with 18-105mm kit lens. I also have a Tamron 90 mm VC and Tokina 11-16mm lens. I am not satisfied by the performance of the 18-105mm lens. Pl suggest me its better alternative which is fast, and sharp.

Dr. Tarun Sharma

I wish you had explained why or in what way you are not satisfied with the performance of the Nikon 18-105mm kit lens. In my opinion, it is a good value-for-money lens. Do remember that you are comparing a relatively cheaper lens with other lenses which are more expensive.Please note that fast lenses are generally very expensive, and they usually offer short focal lengths. The one that comes to mind is the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED. This is a fast and very sharp lens (MRP is Rs.103,100). Another lens, reasonably fast, which is actually designed for full-frame Nikon models, is the AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm f/4G ED VR, which has an MRP of Rs.100,900. On your D7000,

moves more than one pixel during exposure (if it moves less than one pixel, you may or may not notice the blur).

Blurriness due to camera movement during exposureImagine that there are two same-sensor-size cameras one having 12 pixels and the other, 36 pixels.For the sake of understanding the issue, create 12 equal pixels on the 12 pixel sensor and 36 equal pixels on the 36 pixel sensor. Obviously, the pixels on the 12 pixel camera sensor will be larger than the pixels on the 36 pixel camera sensor.

Now imagine camera movement of 1 pixel during exposure. The pixel being larger on the 12 pixel model, permits greater camera movement before blur is registered as compared to the 36 pixel model, which, with the same amount of camera movement, may cover, say, 3 pixels. Obviously, the 36 pixel camera will show greater amount of blur.

AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm f/4G ED VR

the focal length would be equivalent to 36-180mm.

Unforgiving!Why do we say that higher megapixel cameras are unforgiving?

Sailesh Verma, Chennai

By unforgiving, we mean that they do not tolerate certain mistakes.For example, the slightest hand-shake during exposure with high megapixel cameras will immediately show up as blurry images. Also, the slightest inaccuracy in focus will also show up more than it would show in a low megapixel camera. If the lens has poor resolution, that too will show up more in a high megapixel camera than in a low megapixel one. Why does this happen?

I will try to explain this as non-technically as I can; even over-simplify the answer.First things firstBlur happens when the camera

AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED

Blurriness due to imperfect focusingLets say that there is a 1% error in focusing. On the 12 pixel model, the blurriness caused by this may not cover the pixel pitch but on the 36 pixel model, the same amount of blurriness will cover more than a pixel pitch (since the pixels are smaller in comparison). Hence on the 12 pixel camera, this small percentage of out of focus image will not show up as much as it would show up on the 36 pixel camera. (Pixel pitch refers to the distance between centres of two adjoining pixels).

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PHOTOGRAPHY

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PHOTOGRAPHY

January 22, 2015

at

I.T.C. Grand Central

(Parel, Mumbai)

Entry by Invitation Only

PHOTO FEATURE


Ones destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things. Henry Miller V. Anantha Narayana

Th e seeds of my interest in photography were sown when I was fourteen years old. My father got me a Kodak Baby

Browni camera costing Rs. 17 (I had refused a new set of clothes for a family wedding in return for the camera), and

PURI JAGANNATH RATH YATRA

- A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

Th e trio of chariots


Journey en route

Spray of reprieve

PHOTO FEATURE


a 127 size Kodak Verichrome fi lm. Th is was when I lived at Nellore, in Andhra Pradesh. During my college studies in erstwhile Madras (Chennai now), I started using the ADOX120 folding camera. In the year 1964, I moved to New Delhi for employment, where a friend sold his Nikkorex 35 mm camera for Rs. 600 to me. Armed with this camera, I experimented a lot, not only in B&W pictures, but also colour reversal fi lms. I had achieved certain consistency in my work using this camera.

Now I am 74 years old; soon to be 75. I live in Bangalore with my son. In 2007, I started using Nikon D70S D-SLR Camera and my son bought me a D5100 in 2012. I learnt digital photography techniques aft er reading Smart Photography magazine, through the informative and enlightening articles of Ashok Kandimalla and Rohinton Mehta.

Puri, on the east coast of India, in the state of Odissa is a hoary pilgrimage centre. Bhubaneshwar, Konark, and

Puri constitute the Golden Triangle of Orissa, visited by large number of pilgrims and tourists.

Puri enshrines Lord KrishnaJagannathin the form of idols made of neem wood. Also enshrined are the wooden idols of Balabhadra (Balarama) and Subhadra, the brother and sister of Krishna.

Th e temple was originally built by the Kalinga ruler, Ananta Verman (1078-1148 CE). Much of the present structure was built by King Ananga Bhima Deva in the year 1174 CE. Elaborate worship services are carried out throughout the year, the most important being the Rath Yathra or the chariot festival in the month of June-July.

Th e spectacular chariot festival involves the procession of three collosal chariots bearing the images of Jagannath, Balarama, and Subhadra through the streets of Puri.

Jagannaths chariot is a 35 feet square,

rising to the height of 45 feet, with 16 wheels, each 7 feet in diameter. More than 4000 people pull the chariot at a time. Th ousands of devotees and tourists gather from all over the country and abroad to witness this festival. Th e chariot is pulled to the deitys summer abode where the Gods are worshipped for a week. Th en there is a reenactment of the chariot festival, where they are brought back with a procession. Every year new chariots are made for the Rath Yatra. It is believed that an opportunity to pull the chariot, or even touch the ropes, gives one salvation from worldly sins.

Th is year Sri Jagannath Rath Yatra fell on July 29, 2014. I had made plans to reach earlier, and reached Puri two days in advance. I carried my D70S and D5100 cameras with 18-70 mm kit lens, 50 mm f/1.8 lens, and 70-300 mm f/4.5-5.6 zoom lens.

I stayed at Puri for 3 days. Unfortunately, it was raining and drizzling for the fi rst two days and the

Th e King of Puri arriving in his carriage for ceremonial duties


Rhythm and fl ow Centre of attraction

Enacting the play

PHOTO FEATURE


Wheel of the juggernaut

Th e heat brings you down physically, but not spiritually

Tonsuring


crowds were thin. I walked around in the evenings and took pictures. I found many foreigners shooting stills and videos. Th e Indian TV channels were airing live coverage.

I was looking for a vantage point to cover the Rath Yatra. On enquiry, I got a comfortable place on the terrace of Hotel Grand. An advance payment of Rs. 2200 was all it took for me to reserve this place. Th is included breakfast, lunch, and evening snacks with tea. I couldnt have been luckier! Anyway, on the third day of the chariot festival, I reached the terrace by 8 a.m. I got a seat next to the TV crew unit. Th e whole area was an ocean of humanity. Th e crowd had swollen to humongous proportions!

Th e Rath Yatra started very late. As a ritual, fi rst the King of Puri arrived at the place in a procession. It is customary for the Raja to sweep the fl oor of the chariot. Aft er this, the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra were placed in their respective chariots. Aft er a simple ceremony, the chariots were pulled by the police and public,

one aft er the other. Th e last chariot to be pulled was of Lord Jagannaths, its canopy adorned in holy weaves of yellow and red.

Th e huge processions accompanying the chariots played devotional songs with drums, tambourines, trumpets, etc. Crowds lined up on the streets through which the chariot was to pass, and joined in with the chorus. On all the 3 days, I took photographs of villagers in groups dressed up as various Hindu mythological characters such as Hanuman, Radha, Krishna, dancing with devotion. Th e deep unfl inching devotion that the people evince amidst all the chaos is worth seeing. Th ere was this person dressed as Hanuman who was the cynosure of all eyes. He was dancing and twirling in swift movements throughout the day. He was a tireless bundle of energy. Such was the devotion! Villagers singing folk songs and dance troupes in beautiful costumes added to the riot of colour.

On the day of the Rath Yatra, the weather was hot and humid, with

the temperature hovering around 38 to 39 degrees Celsius. Th e state fi re department and some private personnel sprayed water on the people to alleviate some of the peoples woes in the scorching heat. Despite these measures, many fell unconscious. Th ey were taken by RSS volunteers on stretchers and ambulances to the nearest makeshift hospitals for treatment.

Th e hot and muggy weather got to me too, and I was down with food poisoning. But this did not deter me from completing the journey. I had waited for many years to make it to this dream destination. Heat and humidity notwithstanding, the Juggernaut rolled on and so did I. Aft er clicking nearly 200 photographs, I took my return trip back to Bangalore the next day. Th e majestic chariots of Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, colourful costumes, surging crowds, harried policeman, enthusiastic young men, heat, dust, sweat, devotion, festive spirit, and myriad of diff erent hues stayed in my memory for a long time even aft er Id reached home.

Dancing for Gods glory

INTERVIEW


KINGFISHER Calendar 2015

You have been associated with the Kingfisher calendar since inception. How does it feel?It is very gratifying to know that a client has trusted me for thirteen years on the same brand. I dont think theres a precedent for the same in India in terms of longevity of photography/brand. I guess that means that the Kingfisher brand values my work, for them to repose their trust over this length of time. Im deeply grateful.

Has your photography style for the calendar changed over the years?I think its evolved, within the same space. Also I see the light even better and have a much calmer disposition to inclement weather or production trip ups. I believe the Turkey 2015 edition is likely to be eventually recognized as the best one yet.

How do you manage the shoot, in terms of coordinating with the designers, make-up artists, and your own equipment?This is a serious production and we leave little to chance. There are usually 21-22 people on the unit. Ive always been blessed with excellent producers. They need to co-ordinate the time-tables of temperamental and spaced out individuals with crazy schedules and egos to match!


Atul Kasbekar needs no introduction in the world of photography.

As the Kingfisher Calendar 2015 shot in

Turkey is due to release, here is a conversation

with the man responsible for shooting

the calendar girls

Sarah Jane Dias

Elena Fernandes


Elena Fernandes

INTERVIEW


Im very happy that Vidyut and Vandana have made my life easy.

How long does the photo shoot take? Is the photo-shoot very different from your regular shoots?This shoot takes between 12/14 days each year plus a 3-5 day long recce (pre-shooting visit).

This is a unique photo shoot in all aspects. I answer only to the chairman of the UB Group and deliver the final product. Theres no art director or agency to report to.

On what basis do you pick the location every year? Is it tough to manage all the professional models?The location is always decided by Dr. Vijay Mallya. Hes travelled more than most jet pilots have and I can safely depend on him to find some exotic locale. Models are extremely keen to work on the calendar. Its inevitable that they will receive unprecedented fame due to this. They could potentially do very well in the future, like Deepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif, Esha Gupta and Nargis Fakhri have.

The calendar is hugely popular. Are you happy with the result for this year?Yes, Ive routinely been told its one of the best jobs in India. I dont disagree!

Is there anything different/special about this years calendar?Well, our imagery is location-centric, and Turkey was fantastic to be honest. Pamukkale, Bodrum and Cappadocia are outstanding locations. I thrived on the cool weather, the warm people and the amazing backdrops this year.

Sarah Jane Dias

Sarah Jane Dias

Keisha Lall


The Kingfisher Calendar 2015, in its 13t

h

edition, features style and beauty agains

t

the backdrop of Turkeys beaches and

countryside. It is shot in Cappadocia,

Bodrum and Pamukkale. The five model

s

in the shoot are Sarah Jane Dias, Dayana

Erappa, Elena Fernandes, Keisha Lall an

d

the winner of Kingfisher Supermodels-2

, a

reality talent show. They have been styled

by Nupur Mehta Puri and Mohit Rai,

make-up artist Kapil Bhalla, hair stylist

Apeni George, and photographed by ace

photographer Atul Kasbekar, who has be

en

associated with the Kingfisher Calendar

since its inception.

About the

Kingfisher Calen

dar:

Dayana Erappa

Dayana Erappa

MASTERCRAFTSMAN Sanak Roy Choudhury


BUILDING A PICTURE

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Roy

Cho

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Sanak Roy Choudhury is an optometrist based in Oman who takes lovely landscape and architecture photographs. His work can be found at www.facebook.com/sanakphotography


Dusky hues

Where are you from? Tell us a little about your life...I was born in a small town of Bihar (Jamalpur). We moved to Kolkata when I was only 3 years old, and I was brought up in a nuclear family. Basically I am a very straightforward person. I lead life based on certain principles, which include charity work, religious rituals and exercise. Cricket was my first love during my school days. But I couldnt devote a lot of time to cricket, since I had to concentrate on my studies. My father was a railway employee, and I got to travel every year with my family to various parts of India. These trips opened my eyes to the diverse culture that our country is blessed with. Currently Im based in Muscat, Oman, working as a clinical optometrist. I live with my wife and adorable son, and enjoy life to the fullest.

You are an optometrist by profession. How did you get involved with photography?As I mentioned earlier, my travels to many parts of India made me see the immensely rich culture and heritage of my country, and I was compelled to frame it. I used to shoot only with a handycam earlier. My images were not technically perfect, but there was a feeling of positivity and enthusiasm behind each one of them. In 2012, I gifted myself with the very first D-SLR and since then, photography turned out to be a passion for me.

Architecture and landscape photography involve a lot of preparation. How do you prepare for your shoots before leaving for a destination?



Dome

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First and foremost, I browse through the internet, read blogs and look up the weather conditions for the period of my visit. Next, I pick a hotel, depending on the distance from the place where I want to shoot. After I reach the destination, I always make a thorough inspection of the place before I venture out with my camera. Sometimes trivial issues can frustrate you. For example, in some places of historical significance, tripods are not allowed. I always make sure that all these hindrances are taken care of before I go out. Last but not the least, I thoroughly check my gear, which includes batteries, CF/SD card, lenses

and the camera.

How do you go about composing your architectural shots?To me, architectural photography is a science and light, content and form are the key elements that enrich it. I personally believe that a good photo is one which encapsulates an effective balance between composition and content. I believe architecture photography is not only about capturing the captivating beauty of the place, but also about framing the essence or soul of the place. The photographer needs to visualise this before pressing the shutter button.

At the end of the day, your unique visualisation is what separates you from the rest.

What is your opinion on digitally enhancing photographs?There are two types of post processing available to the digital photographerimage manipulation and image enhancement. Unfortunately most of us cannot differentiate between the two, and end up assuming it is photoshopped! As of now, no camera gives you a dynamic range equivalent to the human eye and hence image enhancement is the only way to bring

The Taj Mahal



out the exact view that your brain perceived while shooting. The enhancement I spoke about refers to colour, contrast, highlights, saturation, sharpness and white balance. This is subjective, depending on the taste of the individual. Photography starts with the push of the shutter button; it doesnt end there.

While shooting architecture, what is the ideal equipment to be used?Photographing architecture presents a unique set of challenges for the photographer. There are a number of variables that affect each shot. Basic equipment should include a sturdy tripod with a geared head. Making fine adjustments is critical for producing top quality images.

A D-SLR with a sensor of at least 10 MP (I currently use D810), a wide-angle lens, hotshoe bubble level, etc. are important for this genre. Keeping things nice and level will improve your images greatly.

Any advice for newcomers to the field of photography?Dont go crazy buying the most expensive equipment right away. Consider a tripod. Enjoy the learning process. Learn the basic rules. Take photos regularly. Dont be afraid to experiment. Take advantage of free resources to learn.

Balcony view

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Bolted shut

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Delicate work

Arches along a passage

Lear

ning

s70Street Photography - A Tutorial

76

82

Shooting Black On Black

Flash Fundamentals

LEARNING Understanding Photography

www.smartphotography.in www.smartphotography.in January 2015 Smart Photography 7170 Smart Photography January 2015

Street Photography - A Tutorial

empty bench in a park would qualify as a street photograph. Street photography started with invention of photography itself but really came of age with the introduction of the 35mm (called in those days as miniature) cameras in the 1930s. The modern compact digital camera further helped to popularize it. It is generally said that street photography originated in Paris and the legendary French photographer Henri Cartier Bresson is regarded as the greatest exponent of this art. He is also the person who coined the famous phrase decisive moment in photography.Very closely connected with street photography is candid photography. A street photograph need not be a candid and the opposite is also true. Yet, both these share a stron

smart photography - january 2015 in.pdf

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