Olympus E-P3 camera review

Posted by admin | Camera Review/Information, DSLRs, Digital Cameras | Monday 24 October 2011 10:11 am

What’s the first thing that you notice about the Olympus E-P3? It looks so old-school! Mimicking the design of older cameras with its sturdy build quality, the newest member of Olympus’s E-P line boasts several useful features not found on its predecessor. First and foremost, the E-P3 features a built-in flash, allowing shots not possible with the EP-1 and 2. The autofocus processor has also been enhanced, providing super-quick focus for those who couldn’t stomach the 1-second focus time of its older brothers.

An interchangeable lens systems means the E-P3 will satisfy those looking to dabble in the dSLR world without having to commit to an expensive camera back and lens. Coming complete ‘out-of-the-box’, the E-P3 is perfectly suited to snap-happy retro fans everywhere who want reliable build quality and high quality photos.

The E-P3 is also capable of Full-HD video (1080i/60p) and includes a touch-screen for ease of navigation. Combine this with an improved grip and awesome looks, and you’ve got yourself one heck of a camera.

The advent of digital

We are presently living in a highly digital world – much of our technology has some kind of digital component, being computer controlled and readily connected to different devices. The effect of digital technology has been extremely visible in the realm of photography, with digital cameras now in the vast majority of homes.
Indeed, traditional ‘analogue’ or film photography has seriously diminished over the past decade. It is becoming more and more difficult to find places that are willing to process or even sell 35mm film. The only remnants of the ‘old world’ of photography are the disposable cameras frequently taken on school trips and for photos with a ‘retro charm’. Still, there is a dedicated following for film photography, and it still plays a large part in the educational and artistic markets.

The greatest advantage of digital photography is its versatility. Digital cameras can take many more photos than traditional film-based cameras, photo which can later be edited using a computer program such as Photoshop. Photos can now be made perfect using simple but very powerful tools. In addition, they can be shared with family and friends using the internet, or displayed continuously in digital photo frames. Digital technology offers innumerable possibilities, enhancing creativity, communication and practicality.

Kirk’s Camera Supply recognises the great importance of digital technology in photography, and has gradually come to the forefront of the digital world. Our online presence is a testament to this endeavour. We consider ourselves experts in digital photographic technology, and use this expertise to assist you when purchasing a camera. Come and consult with a Kirk’s camera expert today at our Ringwood store, and find how you can benefit from the digital explosion.

Tripods

Posted by admin | Camera Maintenance, Camera Review/Information, DSLRs, Digital Cameras, Photography, SLRs, Tripods | Tuesday 25 January 2011 9:52 am

A decent tripod is a firm base for successful photography (pardon the pun). Many consumer photographers are used to taking photos ‘on the fly’, and this has lead to the advent of digital image stabilization technology to remove motion blur. However, many non-professional photographers can still benefit from having a tripod on hand.

For a large number of ‘incidental’ photographers, a tripod is an essential piece of equipment. It allows precise control of the angle of a shot, provides a stable platform to produce crisp images and a stand for timer photography. Tripods can range from the basic, $10-$20 variety for basic shots, to the advanced, highly configurable structures used for professional work. Tripods are surprisingly inexpensive, and a basic model will suit the needs of most entry-level photographers. There’s even the unusual ‘GorillaPod’, which secures your camera to virtually any surface imaginable via bendy legs.

Tripods can be easily stored along with your other camera accessories via means of a storage bag. Nearly all tripods fold up into a portable, lightweight package, so they can be carried easily on trips.

Where a tripod cannot be used due to space concerns, another viable option is the monopod. These are extensible rods that you can rest the body of your camera on, providing a more stable image. As your hands do not bear the weight of the camera, there is less shake to upset it. Kirk’s Camera Supply stocks a range of monopods that you can use to improve your photography in tight spaces.

Visit our store in Ringwood and browse our range of tripods for yourself, or flick through our catalog online. A tripod is an excellent investment for any photographer – drop into Kirk’s Camera Supply and find one that’s right for you.

Compact vs. SLR

Posted by admin | Camera Education, Camera Review/Information, DSLRs, Digital Cameras, Photography, Product News | Tuesday 25 January 2011 9:43 am

When purchasing a new digital camera, one is confronted with a huge range of choice. There are many different models, brands and types to choose from, so the task can seem quite daunting. The sales consultants at Kirk’s Camera Supply recognise this, and will help you choose the camera that is best for you. The two most popular forms of digital camera are the simpler compact variety and the more sophisticated SLR-style type. It’d important to compare the two before deciding on what you will finally purchase.

The compact camera is perhaps the most popular kind. These are the successors of the film-based consumer camera, but allow far more in terms of relative features. Some compact cameras produce nearly professional quality pictures, while still remaining small and easy to use. The chief benefit of the compact camera is its size – it’s easy to keep in a handbag or pocket, and can be taken out for impromptu shoots like family events. However, the lens of the compact camera cannot be removed.  This is rarely a concern for your average consumer photographer, but it can limit the quality and variety of your pictures.

At the other end of the spectrum is the Digital SLR. These are similar to the Single-Lens Reflex film cameras of years-gone-by, in that they have interchangeable lenses and a large body. They produce very high quality shots, and the parameters of the camera can be customised to a much greater degree than with compacts. Although generally more expensive than their compact equivalents, many at the lower end of the range are specifically aimed at consumers who want a little more quality and choice. These are quite affordable and make perfect cameras for the hobbyist.

So, whether a compact or an SLR is up your alley, Kirk’s Camera Supply has got you covered. We can help you choose the camera that’s right for you. Our trained staff are more than willing to provide assistance in choosing from our affordable range of compact and SLR cameras. Visit our Ringwood store today for a tour!

The benefits of photography

Posted by admin | Camera Review/Information, DSLRs, Digital Cameras, Photography | Tuesday 23 November 2010 9:17 am

The world of photography has grown immensely since its inception. It’s now common practice for every household to have at least one camera to record family memories. Their presence in our modern world is ubiquitous, with most modern mobile phones incorporating one in their handset. Still, despite the universal nature of the camera, it still provides a fun, engaging hobby in the form of photography. Photography can extend from simple recording of events to a full-blown professional art form. To get the most out of the field, of course, one needs to have quality tools and a good support base. Kirk’s Camera Supply can provide you with both of these.

We stock a wide range of digital still and video cameras, as well as accessories to enhance your photography experience. With our extensive online selection, you’re sure to find the right tool for the job. For example, if you simply want to record fun times with friends or family, a handheld digital still camera might be your best bet, or a DV camcorder. Many digital still cameras nowadays have video recording features, allowing you to produce video comparable to that from a camcorder. The possibilities are endless.

The creative aspect of photography is always an alluring aspect for artists young and old. Computer image manipulation programs, combined with the rise of digital photography, have meant that professionals and beginners alike can create photography masterpieces with ease. Creative photography could be your window into artistic fulfillment. More importantly, it’s fun!

Here at Kirk’s Camera Supply, we service customers from all walks of photography. Our staff are ready to consult and help you find a camera that is suited to your purposes. Whether basic or sophisticated, Kirk’s can handle any photographical request. Browse our range online or in-store to discover your idea camera.

Pro or Consumer?

With the vast range of digital cameras available these days, deciding which one to buy can be a daunting task. The field is constantly changing, with technical specifications constantly exceeding and prices often dropping. Navigating the world of digital photography is made easy at Kirk’s. We carry the major brands of cameras and accessories for the professional, the amateur and the home user. Choosing a camera is made easy by our friendly staff, who aim to get you the model that you need and want, one  suited to your needs and budget.

As technology is always moving at an incomparable rate, the fine line between the professional photographer and the dilettante is growing thinner all the time. Cameras with excellent capabilities and functions, allowing the user to take high-quality shots, are getting cheaper all the time. This has been particularly noticeable with the advent of the Digital SLR (DSLR). These, with their often interchangeable lenses, offer a kind of image quality previously only obtained by professional photographers. DSLRs have gotten less expensive as time has gone on, now catering to the burgeoning ‘prosumer’ demographic of photographers. Often, these are amateurs whose desire for better image quality can now be gratified with the low-cost DSLR. Kirk’s Camera Supply cater for all photographer skills levels, stocking both high- and mid-range DSLRs at affordable prices.

Kirk’s Camera Supply prides itself on providing photography solutions for all kinds of photographer, from the home user, to the amateur, to the professional. You can browse our extensive range on our website, or send an email to one of our staff. We are always happy to oblige with questions. Alternatively, feel free to drop into our store and take a look at our range in person today!

Canon EOS D60 DSLR Specs

Posted by admin | Camera Review/Information, DSLRs, Photography, Product News | Thursday 23 September 2010 10:23 am

For anyone looking to take the next step in the world of DSLR photography, the Canon EOS 60D is the answer. Brand new technology provides users with an exciting new LCD Screen perfect for photography situations that need a low or overhead shooting angle, be that for taking still images or capturing videos in HD, as well as providing beautiful, cutting edge images.

18 megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
First Canon EOS camera with vari-angle LCD monitor
Four new creative filters: toy camera; miniature effect; soft focus; grainy black and white
DiG!C 4 Image Processor
ISO 100-6400 (up to ISO 12800)
5.3 frames per second (fps) with continuous shooting up to 94 shots in a single burst (JPEG Large/Fine)
Live View Mode with Live Face Detection AF Mode
iFCL metering with 63-zone Dual-layer Sensor
Integrated Speedlite transmitter
In-camera RAW processing
Full High Definition movies with ‘Movie Crop’ feature (via HDMI output)

If this camera is what you’re looking for, or you want to find out more about this or many more Cameras, call or visit Kirk’s Cameras today! We have all of your DSLR needs - from lenses to accessories and much more!

Nikon D3100 Introduction to Specifications

Posted by admin | Camera Review/Information, DSLRs, Photography, Product News | Thursday 23 September 2010 10:01 am

When you are looking to capture some of life’s most precious moments, the Nikon D3100 provides photography that can create an ever-lasting memory.  This camera is a simple, yet powerful DSLR which provides you with surprisingly superb results. The Nikon D3100 caters for all occasions, from taking the occasional snapshot, to composing full HD movies.

DX-format, 14.2 effective megapixel CMOS image sensor
EXPEED 2 - Nikon’s new image processing engine
ISO sensitivity 100-3200 (expandable to ISO 12800 equivalent)
Active D-Lighting - Beautiful balancing of light and shade
Picture Control - Customizing images before the shot
Guide Mode - The sure way to obtain desired results
Scene Modes - Your short cut to expected results
Scene Auto Selector - Letting D3100 decide the best mode to match the scene
Help function - One-touch access to in-camera assistance
Info display format - Choose the view that’s right for you
D-Movie - Breathtaking full HD 1080p movies [NEW]
Live View - Live View with new AF modes and large 7.5-cm (3-in.) monitor
AF Mode for Live View and Movie Shooting - New autofocus (AF) modes help capture moving subjects
AF-area modes for live view and movies - Four modes to capture subject
11-point AF system - Quick, accurate autofocus ready for the decisive moment
Advanced white balance control - More natural whites
Built-in pop-up flash - Additional light whenever needed
Convenient and powerful Speedlight SB-400 (sold separately)
Scene Recognition System - Intelligent operation in any setting
Ample image and movie editing functions - In-camera image and movie editing
High-performance NIKKOR lenses - The right choice for amazing photos and full HD movies.
Nikon’s original VR system - Less camera-shake blur in images and viewfinder
Compact and lightweight - Easy operation and take-anywhere portability
Continuous 3 fps shooting - Catch the decisive moment
Eye-Fi support - Transfer photos and movies wirelessly

Searching for Simplicity, Power and Top of the range Technology? This Camera has it all, and more. To be fully informed about a majority of different cameras and have professional advice, Go no further than Kirks Cameras for all your Camera needs, call or visit in-store now!

Nikon Cameras- Quality Since 1917

Posted by admin | DSLRs, Digital Cameras, Digital Video Cameras, Photography | Sunday 29 August 2010 10:31 am

Nikon has been producing high quality cameras since 1917 and has become one of, if not the most well known camera manufacturers in the world. The quality of their product, combined with their forward thinking, has produced a brand recognition that is unsurpassed in the camera industry.

Forward Compatible

Nikon knew the value of producing a quality product even ninety years ago. They also knew that by producing products that would be forward compatible for years to come, they would gain the faith of their customers. Consumers that purchased a Nikon SLR camera twenty years ago and now have purchased a new digital camera, such as the Nikon D3000, have the confidence in knowing that the expensive Nikkor or Nikon lenses are compatible with the newer SLR cameras (while used in Manual mode).

Affordable - Easy to Use

Moms and Dads can now take photographer quality pictures of their children with affordable, point and shoot digital cameras that are now being produced by every camera manufacturer under the sun, with Nikon taking the market by storm with their line of Nikon CoolPix cameras. Both affordable and easy to use, Nikon is proven that quality does not have to be expensive.

Making a high quality camera affordable enough for the average consumer, while still maintaining the quality of the brand is one more reason why Nikon has proven that they know what their customers want and they deliver.

Kirk’s Camera Supply is the retailer to trust. Let then answer all of your questions and help you to choose the camera that is perfect for your needs and your budget. Whether you are a budding photographer or a seasoned professional, the staff at Kirk’s Camera Supply is ready to assist you with all your photography needs. They carry a huge selection of cameras, lenses, tripods and more. Visit them today at 86 Maroondah Hwy in Ringwood or call them at (03) 9870 4644

Olympus E-620 DSLR - Specifications

Posted by admin | Camera Review/Information, DSLRs | Friday 21 May 2010 11:28 am

The Olympus E-620 combines the technical sophistication required by pros with easy-to-use functions desired by amateurs. Claiming the title of the world’s smallest and lightest creative D-SLR with built-in image stabilisation, this new camera is bound to do the job!  Ambitious photographers everywhere can now take creativity to a whole new level - without spending years completing training!

Here are just a few of the specifications of this DSLR camera:

• Art Filters, Multiple Exposure, Wireless Flash, Multi-Aspect
• Comfortable Live View thanks to high-speed contrast AF
• Free-angle 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal III LCD
• 12.3 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor
• Built-in IS with max. 4 EV steps efficiency
• 7-point Twin AF (5 cross points)
• Optical viewfinder with approx 95% field of view and approx 0.96x magnification
• Small and light-weight body
• Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology
• Auto white balance control
• Reliable Supersonic Wave Filter dust reduction system
• Built-in flash (GN12)
• Wireless flash control in up to 3 groups
• Illuminated buttons
• AE/AF lock functionality for individual customisation
• ISO 100-3200 for wide-ranging sensitivity
• Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interface
• High-speed data writing and lossless RAW compression for quick processing
• Simultaneous writing of RAW and JPEG
• 23 shooting modes (5 Exposure Modes, 5 Creative Modes, 13 Scene Select Modes)

If you want to know more, or would like a demonstration, be sure to get in touch with the friendly team here at Kirk’s Cameras today!

Next Page »