A Special Discount for LRTimelapse 3

LRTimelapse 3 is one of the best time-lapse assembly software products available and works seamlessly with Photoshop Lightroom 5.For the remainder of 2013 and January 1, 2014 you can license or upgrade to any version of LRTimelapse for a 15% discount.  This applies to upgrades and cross-grades too.A brief explanation of the options:

• If you still don't have any License, you can choose LRTimelapse 3 private and LRTimelapse 3 Pro. You can read about the differences here.
• If you have a LRT2 private license, you can get a discounted upgrade to LRT3 private or a discounted crossgrade to LRT3 Pro. For the latter, you will then save the cost of the update to version 3.
• If you have a license for LRT2 Pro (commercial), you will require the update to LRT3 Pro.
• If you already have upgraded to LRT3 private, you can crossgrade to Pro, if you need the advanced features.

Click Here and use the discount coupon code: XMAS2013LRT

Frederick Van Johnson of TWIP interviews me

So honored to have been interviewed by Frederick Van Johnson on Episode 339 of TWiP.  If you have not subscribed to TWiP you must - it is one of the best Podcasts for photographers bar none.Click Here for a link to the podcastTWiP is available from iTunes as well as http://www.thisweekinphoto.com[video type="youtube" id="TEJ1XpaMbI0" width="400"]Default Message[/video]

One Day Workshop Schedule for December 2013

Here is the schedule for the remainder of  2013.  Please use this REGISTRATION link to register and pay for these workshops.  Please also fill out and mail or bring with you the Workshop Registration and Waiver Form  This is an electronic form, you may print it and then fill it out or fill it out directly and then print the required copies.Click on the links for detailed PDF documents.December 7, 2013 - Photography Basics a one day class   December 8, 2013 -  Time-Lapse WorkshopDecember 21, 2013 - Lighting WorkshopDecember 22, 2013 - Macro and Closeup PhotographyIf you have any questions or would like more information please call 617-759-0010 or email sv@shivverma.com

NiK - Google release Analog Efex Pro

Analog Efex Pro"Explore the look and feel of classic cameras, films, and lenses" as state by NiK

The plugin allows you to create images with the look of various analog camera and film types.  You can choose from Classic, Vintage, Wet Plate and Toy Cameras and create vintage effects.  You can  create textures, modify the bokeh, generate frames and vignettes with controls that are not like the typical NiK "control points" used in the original suite of products.In the release NiK states that they will be adding  additional cameras, films, bells, and whistles.

NiK products will be automatically updated based on what you own but if you do not want to wait for the update to happen you can download the trial suite from the NiK web site and install it over your existing suite of NiK products.  Agalog Efex Pro will appear as an additional product in the Google/NiK collection.

Sony Releases two full frame mirror-less cameras

Sony today announced the α7 and α7R interchangeable lens mirror-less systems.  Though the lens selection is limited but Sony promises and extensive line by 2015. I do believe these are definitely cameras that will be strong competition for other mirror-less and prosumer range DSLR cameras.  From the specifications these are ideal cameras for all types of photography with the exception of subjects that require a fast focusing system - wildlife and sports action photography.  The cameras will be available in December and I am putting one on my wish list.

The Sony α7R has a 36.4 megapixel sensor and excludes a low pass filter for obtaining greater detail.  The Sony α7 has a 24.3 megapixel sensor coupled with a reasonably fast hybrid auto focus system.

Click here for a link to the Sony press release.

Canon 70D announced - A DSLR with full function Video

Canon proudly introduces the EOS 70D – features:a revolutionary autofocus technology that unlocks the potential of Live View: Dual Pixel CMOS AF. This game-changing technology allows the EOS 70D to capture video in Live View with smooth and precise autofocus similar to that of a camcorder. Additionally, Dual Pixel CMOS AF provides fast and accurate autofocus during Live View still image capture, enabling you to fully benefit from the freedom of angle allowed by the Vari-angle Touch Screen 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor II.Built-in wireless technology and the EOS Remote app* further enhance shooting versatility, as well as enable easy sharing.Brilliant image quality is provided by the EOS 70D's 20.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, a first for an EOS camera with an APS-C sized sensor.Continuous shooting up to 7.0 frames per second, as well as an extended ISO range of 100–12800 (H: 25600) that allows shooting in a wide variety of lighting conditions.19-point all cross-type AF system with a high precision dual cross f/2.8 center point, and advanced display options available on the Intelligent Viewfinder supply exceptional control.In-camera imaging features like HDR, HDR Backlight Control, Multiple Exposure, Handheld Night Scene, and Creative Filters.

LRTimelapse and Lightroom 5 issues - Keep Lightroom 4 for Time-Lapse

With the release of Lightroom 5, Adobe has made one big hash of the video features in the Slideshow Module.  You will no longer be able to use any of the LRTimelapse Video Presets.If you do use LRTimelapse - please do not uninstall Lightroom 4.  Keep all your time-lapse sequences in a Lightroom 4 Catalog so you will be able to generate time-lpase videos.The developer of LRTimelapse is working furiously to create an alternative process which will go into Beta soon.All is not lost - there are ways around the problem.Sign up for my blog posts to stay informed.

Canon's much awaited 200-400mm f/4 telezoom with built-in 1.4x extender announced

Here is the press release:MELVILLE, N.Y., May 14, 2013 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced a dynamic new super-telephoto zoom lens, the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x. Designed for use with all Canon EOS Digital SLR cameras, the new L-series lens has an integrated 1.4x focal length extender and high-performance Image Stabilization technology, offering exceptional shooting flexibility and range, ideal for sports or wildlife photography.

The new EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x zoom lens features an optically matched built-in 1.4x extender that increases the maximum focal length to 560mm, simultaneously preserving image quality and enabling the seamless capture of distant, moving subjects. With a simple switch, photographers can easily increase zoom range, which is extremely useful when it's difficult to change lenses quickly, and helps protect delicate equipment like a DSLR camera's image sensor in environments with dust, high humidity or other extreme environmental factors.Peter Read Miller, an award-winning sports photographer and Canon Explorer of Light, recently used the new lens while shooting various worldwide sporting competitions."I had the opportunity recently to use Canon's new 200-400 lens at a number of sporting events," said Miller. "I found it to be incredibly versatile, replacing several different prime lenses that I would usually carry. The zoom allows me to control my framing; the autofocus has speed equal to or faster than most fixed focal length telephoto lenses and the ability to engage the 1.4 extender without taking my eye away from the camera is a unique feature not found in any other telephoto lens available today."To help deliver beautiful, soft, image backgrounds, the lens features a 9-blade circular aperture. The lens also utilizes inner focusing, ring USM, a high-speed CPU and optimized AF algorithms for fast and accurate autofocusing. Quiet and smooth focus shifts - essential for filmmaking - are made possible with Canon's Power Focus mode.Using advanced optical materials such as fluorite crystal and UD glass, the new lens provides excellent correction of chromatic aberration throughout the entire zoom range, and delivers high-quality images with high levels of resolution, color fidelity and contrast. With three image stabilization modes, (standard, panning, and during exposure only) and stabilization effective up to four shutter speed steps, the new EF 200-400mm lens provides excellent results for a wide range of subjects and shooting scenarios. The new lens also includes dust- and water-resistant construction designed for extended usage under harsh conditions."The EF 200-400 along with the Canon EOS-1D X camera body is my new 'go-to' combination for shooting sports," concluded Miller.The EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x zoom lens is expected to be available at the end of May for an estimated retail price of $11,799.00.Hunt's Photo and Video is taking pre-orders for this lens.  Call 800-221-1830 or click here to pre-order on their web site.

Mirrorless Movers™

Think Tank Photo just announced their first camera bag collection for Mirrorless cameras, the Mirrorless Movers™.  The Mirrorless Movers come in four sizes that range in size from the Mirrorless Mover 5, which fits one small size mirrorless body with a small telephoto or pancake lens attached, up to the Mirrorless Mover 30i, which fits one medium to large size mirrorless body plus two to four lenses and an iPad.As is their design philosophy, Think Tank placed a premium on quality.  The new bags utilize metal hardware instead of plastic buckles, and only high quality fabrics, YKK zippers and a new, magnetic closure.  In the words of their president and lead designer Doug Murdoch, “The Mirrorless Movers offer photographers quality in their camera bags worthy of their investment in these sophisticated, expensive camera systems.”When you click on this special link you will receive free gear with all orders of $50 or more and free shipping on all orders if you order by May 31, 2013.Click HereThe four sizes are:

• The Mirrorless Mover 5 fits one small size mirrorless body with a small telephoto or pancake lens attached. It is sized for the Canon EOS–M, Leica D–Lux, Nikon 1 series, Olympus E–PM2, E–PL5, EP–3, Panasonic GF3, Sony NEX–C3, or similar sized bodies.
• The Mirrorless Mover 10 fits one medium size mirrorless body plus one to two lenses and additional accessories. It is sized for the Leica V–Lux, Olympus OM–D E–M5, Panasonic G3, GF5, GH2, Samsung NX5, NX11, NX210, Sony NEX–5, NEX–6, NEX–7, or similar sized/smaller bodies.
• The Mirrorless Mover 20 fits one medium size mirrorless body plus two to three lenses and additional accessories. It is sized for the Leica V–Lux, Olympus OM–D E–M5, Panasonic G3, GF5, GH2, Samsung NX5, NX11, NX210, Sony NEX–5, NEX–6, NEX–7, or similar sized/smaller bodies.
• The Mirrorless Mover 30i fits one medium to large size mirrorless body plus two to four lenses, iPad, and additional accessories or a small–size DSLR and one to three small telephoto lenses or primes. It is sized for the Fuji X–Pro 1, Leica M8, Panasonic GH3 or similar sized/smaller bodies. Small DSLRs: Canon Rebel, Nikon D3200/D5200, Sony SLT–A55/A37 or similar sized bodies.

When it all comes together

I have visions of scenes and locations that I want but have to wait till it all comes together.  On the very last day of the Smoky Mountain Workshop we had planned to go to the Foothills Parkway for sunrise.  When I woke up I saw signs of some fog which would make for some very nice images along the parkway but feelings were tugging at me and I wanted to go to Cades Cove in the hope of getting my one image of Sparks Lane.   The group agreed to the change in planes and we headed out to Cades Cove.  Half way there all the fog was gone, it was too late to turn around so I decided to to continue and take my chances.  Arriving at the gates before they opened, I saw that the fog was there - a big thumbs-up.The rest of the story is in the image.  The light in the trees, the dogwood in the foreground, the fog along the tree line and the sunrise colors on the mountains - my dreams had come true it was all there as I had hoped to capture one day.  Please do click on the image for an enlarged version.

Canon EOS 5D Mk III Firmware Update

Canon has released the EOS 5D Mark III firmware update.  This update adds two highly useful features: a clean HDMI output option and cross-type AF at f/8.Click here for the download. 

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 5 Beta

Adobe has just released the Beta version of Lightroom 5.Click here for the download site.I will be posting mew feature reviews soon.

The Impressive Feisol Carbon Fibre Ball-Head

I had done a review of the Feisol Carbon Fiber Tripod and the The FEISOL CB-50DC Carbon fiber Ball-Head a while back  Click here for the review. This lightweight ball-head continues to impress me. It is a light yet very well constructed Arca Swiss compatible ball head designed for general purpose use.

My unit is now mounted on my Dynamic Precession cart atop the 6 foot rail and performs really well. As most of these rails are belt and stepper motor driven it is best to keep the overall weight as low as possible. Here is where this head is perfect.

The carbon fibre construction is impressive. The locking mechanism is based on dual calipers. One dual caliper is used to lock the ball while the other is used to lock the base plate. Each caliper is operated by a rotating knob. A third flatter knob is used to maintain tension on the ball preventing any accidental flopping of mounted equipment.Hunts Photo is conducting a one week "shiv verma | photography" special for all Feisol Products.  Discounts and free shipping  are available through April 14, 2013.

thinkTank Photo Products

We are proud to have been accepted as a thinkTANK affiliate.  Please use this link to browse and purchase any thinkTANK product.  For any purchase of $50 or more you will receive a free (valuable) gift from thinkTANK. You may also use the link from the products page on this website  If you like street photography the Urban Disguise is for you.

My favorite sling straps for my cameras.

If you never tried a sliding sling strap, you are in for a wonderful experience.  We are all familiar with sling straps on camera bags and some back packs.  Sling straps are worn diagonally across your body to move the weight of your gear from your neck to your shoulder – resulting in a significant improvement in comfort.  Sliding Sling Straps differ from sling straps in one important feature.  Sliding sling straps have a fitting that slides along the strap.  The fitting in turn connects to your camera.  That means that the camera, which is attached to the fitting, can be brought up smoothly to your eye without pulling your clothing – the strap, which is a loop, does not need to move!Sliding slings trace back to 1885 where the slider was connected to a rifle http://www.rollanet.org/~stacyw/us_1885_carbine_sling.htm.  The first commercial application that I found for cameras dates back to 2004.  The product (still available), called simply “The Strap” is sold by a company called Leicagoodies, http://www.leicagoodies.com/strap.html.  This sliding sling uses a detachable connector attached to a split ring which slides along 1” wide loop strap.There have been many embodiments of the sliding sling strap for cameras since 2004.  The most popular are the Black Rapid straps and the California Sun Bounce Straps.  Many smaller companies also produced sling straps.  In 2007, Black Rapid applied for a patent on the sling strap.  The patent was granted in November 2011.  Black Rapid immediately moved to eliminate competitive products that used the sling concept for cameras.  A letter notifying infringement of a patent and threatening legal action was sent from the president of Black Rapid to the manufactures of sliding sling straps and to camera dealers who sold competitive product.  One manufacturer immediately stopped production of their strap; others modified their design to avoid an expensive patent infringement law suit.A relative newcomer, BosStrap, dropped the original design and took a different approach and completely different strap. Introduced in June 2012, the BosStrap Generation 3 Sliding Sling Strap is truly “unlike anything else” as BosStrap claims.  I recently had an opportunity to try them and used two of them on my two 7D and 5D MkIII bodies while doing my workshops in Iceland.This product really is different from others.  Careful engineering resulted in an elegant, functional design.  To begin with, BosStrap uses a unique, double lock, patent pending attachment to the camera.  This USA made product is different from other sling straps in that it attaches to the left strap lug on the camera, not to the tripod socket as virtually all other sling straps do.  When hanging from the left strap lug, the camera rests in a much more natural way with the lens directed downward and backward allowing your camera nestle against you with your hip between the front of the pentaprism and the top of the lens.  Hanging in this position tends to stabilize the camera when walking, yet keeps the camera grip at your hand for instant access.When you want to move to a tripod, you simply release the Generation 3 Tail strap from the slider.  You do not need to unscrew anything from the camera, and you can continue to wear the light-weight sling strap without the camera.BosStrap has completely freed the camera’s tripod threaded socket from a strap connector.  Your tripod mounting plate never needs to be removed from your camera.  BosStrap claims that Nikon and Canon do not recommend carrying the inverted weight of the camera and lens by the tripod socket because of the possibility of internal seals being stressed in a way they were not designed for.   There is also concern about the ability of the tripod socket to carry the inverted weight.You won’t find a shoulder pad on a BosStrap.  I was skeptical about this lack of cushioning at first, but after trying it with my Canon bodies, I was convinced that the 1-1/2” wide strap really offers the same comfort that a bulky pad would provide.  BosStrap works with an L-bracket too.I like to do street photography and have the need for a lot of flexibility and be inconspicuous.  With a BosStrap, I can conceal my camera under my open jacket and not have a large lump from a shoulder pad showing.  My camera is partially concealed under my jacket until needed - very unobtrusive and it is an excellent theft deterrent.  An added benefit is that the strap can be wrapped around the lens when putting your camera back in the bag.A BosStrap is simply an efficiently engineered product that does precisely what it is supposed to do – provide very quick accessibility and support your camera in a comfortable, safe manner.  Most important they are very reasonably priced.  You can get them directly from Boss Strap, LLC  or one of the many stores they have listed on their site.You can a;sp order them from Hunts Photo Video at http://www.huntsphotoandvideo.com

HDR Efex Pro 2 Released

The new HDR Efex Pro 2 introduces a host of new and some much needed features.You can get your copy or upgrade your existing software via this linkHere are some of the new features.New tone-mapping engine – Enjoy improved color rendering, more natural results, and simplified controlsUnified workflow – Users in Photoshop, Lightroom, and Aperture will all have the same experience the same features and functionalityUpdated merging interface – Previews of each exposure and the ability to enable Smart Objects streamline the merging processImproved ghost reduction and alignment – New algorithms and the ability to select a reference image dramatically improve the initial merge resultsChromatic aberration reduction – New controls to reduce unsightly purple & blue fringes where dark tones meet light tonesUpdated tone mapping and enhancement panel – Completely redesigned controls for enhancing images make crafting superior HDR images fast and easyDepth control – Overcomes the flat dull look that so often accompanies HDR imagery

Special Products and Special Prices

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your support and helping my photography Photo Tours and Workshops gain momentum.  For all who have participated in any way this year a special thank you and for those who will be joining  me next year, I look forward to gaining your confidence.As I look back at 2012, I can't help but feel grateful to the wonderful people who have come into my extended photo family.  I have enjoyed every moment with you all.As a small token I requested my friend, supporter and sponsor Gary Farber of Hunts Photo and Video to put together some VERY SPECIAL PRICING on some of my favorite  products and accessories.  As you look through this list, you might want to avail of these discounts and support Hunts as they have supported the photographic community.Wishing you and yours Happy and Safe Holidays and all the best for the New Year.With warm regards,ShivClick Here for the list and special pricing good through the end of the year

Bosque del Apache and White Sands National Monument

Returned late last night after an incredible Photo Tour and Workshop (PTAW) to the Bosque and White Sands.  We arrived in New Mexico on Thanksgiving and it was non stop photography from pre dawn to night every day.The PTAW officially started on Friday but early arrivers enjoyed Thanksgiving evening watching the Sandhill Cranes fly in with the golden light of the setting sun.  Each morning we picked a location ideal for capturing great images - all based on the direction of the winds in conjunction with the sunrise.  Mornings and mid afternoons were spent scouting out for additional opportunities in the corn fields and pools.The reserve has been cleaned up and almost every location is perfect for great image making.  Some images from PTAW participants:The image above is from the first morning and the three images below are from the following evening.    And here is one of mine at sunset.Could not resist posting a "Fly Off" aka "Blast Off" aka "Explosion" - whatever you want to call it - it is just fabulous to witness. The current count of Sandhill Cranes is just under 7,000 and the the Snow Goose count is about 53,000 as of November 28, 2012.

Great savings on Adobe Products

BosStrap LLC to sponsor Iceland 2

I am so happy to announce that BosStrap is sponsoring the Iceland 2 Photo Tour and Workshop.  The designers of the original BosStrap Camera Sling System now have the full range of sling straps for you professional DSLR to your Point and Shoot cameras.  The BosStrap is MADE IN AMERICA - here is a link to their web site:

All my camera bodies are equipped with the BosStrap - they are light, strong and so very convenient - read more on their website and support American Made.