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The Digital Photography Book, Part 4
by Scott Kelby
Publication Date: March 10, 2012

Buy new: $24.99 $14.49

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Details

Product Description
Scott Kelby, author of The Digital Photography Book, Volume 1 (the world’s best-selling digital photography book of all time), is back with yet another follow-up with an entirely new book that picks up right where he left off with Volume 3. It’s even more of that “Ah ha, so that’ s how they do it,” straight-to-the-point, skip-the-techno-jargon stuff people can really use today to make their shots even better.

This book truly has a brilliant premise, and here’s how Scott describes it: “If you and I were out on a shoot and you asked me, ‘Hey Scott, I want the light for this portrait to look really soft and flattering. How far back should I put this softbox?’ I wouldn’t give you a lecture about lighting ratios, or flash modifiers. In real life, I’d just turn to you and say, ‘Move it in as close to your subject as you possibly can, without it actually showing up in the shot.’ Well, that’s what this book is all about: you and I out shooting where I answer questions, give you advice, and share the secrets I’ve learned, just like I would with a friend–without all the technical explanations and techie photo speak.”

The Digital Photography Book, Volume 4 follows in the footsteps of the wildly successful previous volumes, giving photographers nearly two hundred more closely guarded photographic “tricks of the trade” to get them shooting dramatically better-looking, sharper, more colorful, more professional-looking photos with their digital camera every time they press the shutter button.

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Popularity: 42% [?]

New NIKKOR Lens is Ideal for Low-Light, Portraiture and Adding Dramatic Background Blur to Both Photo and Video

MELVILLE, N.Y. (January 5, 2012) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the addition of the new AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G FX-format lens to its legendary line of NIKKOR lenses. The new 85mm is a fast, fixed focal-length lens with medium telephoto capabilities and a large maximum aperture of f/1.8 that is capable of performing a wide variety of imaging tasks with amazing sharpness and clarity.

“Whether a professional photographer who needs extreme sharpness or a photo enthusiast looking for an affordable, lightweight lens with amazing clarity, Nikon photographers appreciate and rely on the vast selection and dependability of NIKKOR lenses for their imaging needs,” said Lisa Osorio, general manager of marketing at Nikon Inc. “The new 85mm f/1.8 is fully optimized for capturing amazing photos and videos, while providing the ability to utilize background blur to compliment the subject of their photo.”

Read more on Nikon Press Center

Preorder on B&H

Popularity: 7% [?]

The New 16.2 Megapixel Nikon D4 Wields a Formidable Fusion of Swift Performance, Battle-Tested Technologies and Innovative New Features to Create High Caliber Photo and HD Multimedia Content

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Jan 5, 2012) – The new Nikon D4 digital SLR builds upon the legacy of the proven Nikon flagship D-SLRs before it, engineered to give today’s professional multimedia photographers a new apex of speed and accuracy with unparalleled image quality, low-light capability and Full HD video. The Nikon D4 hosts a multitude of advanced new features and useful functions that deliver speedy performance and amazing image quality for when missing the shot is not an option.

Every aspect of the new Nikon D4 D-SLR has been designed to emphasize rapid response and seamless operation to help professional photographers consistently capture incredible content. Nikon’s proven 51-point AF System has been further enhanced for maximum speed in a variety of challenging shooting situations, even at 10 frames per second (fps). Considered the new Nikon flagship, the D4 renders supreme image quality, a feat accomplished with a new 16.2-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor, coupled with the latest generation of Nikon’s EXPEED 3 image processing engine to help produce images and videos with stunning clarity and color. Photographers are also able to shoot in even the most challenging environments and lighting conditions with the assistance of Nikon’s new 91,000-pixel 3D color matrix meter and a broad ISO range from 100 to a staggering 204,800 for low-light capture like never before. The Nikon D4 is engineered for the modern professional and incorporates never before seen HD-SLR video features for those who also need to capture multimedia content from the field.

Read more on Nikon Press Center

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Popularity: 2% [?]

The New Nikon SB-910 Speedlight Harnesses Powerful Flexibility And Control For The Revolutionary Creative Lighting System New Nikon SB-910 Speedlight Offers Advanced Flash Technology and Intelligent Features

MELVILLE, N.Y. (November 29, 2011) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the addition of a new flagship speedlight, the powerful and capable SB-910 speedlight. Building on the versatility of Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS), the SB-910 incorporates an enhanced intuitive operating system and graphic user interface (GUI). The SB-910 speedlight comes equipped with a wide zoom range covering the most popular focal lengths as well as FX/DX-format identification that optimizes zoom settings based on the camera body. This new speedlight also provides more efficient battery usage as well as an enhanced Thermal Cut-Out function.

Read more on: Nikon Press Center

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Popularity: 5% [?]

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ASUS A53E-EH91 15.6-Inch Versatile Entertainment Laptop (Black)
by Asus
(5)
Date first available at Amazon.com: October 1, 2011

Buy new: $449.99 $399.99
21 used & new from $384.98

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Notebooks list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Details

Technical Details
- 2.1 GHz Intel Pentium B950
- 4 GB DIMM
- 320 GB 5400 rpm Hard Drive
- 15.6-Inch Screen, Intel GMA HD
- Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit

Product Description
Not Just another Pretty Face
Smart, Reliable & Efficient

Powered by an Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core B950 Processor with Intel GMA HD Graphics, the ASUS A53E-EH91 delivers responsive multi-tasking and rich, built-in visuals on its brilliant 15.6″ LED-backlit HD display. HDMI ready, supersize your high-definition media to an HDTV for up to 1080p visuals and 8 channel surround sound support. Experience faster data transfer with SuperSpeed USB 3.0. ASUS Infusion Technology gives this notebook a scratch-resistant coat with eye-catching style. ASUS IceCool technology with hairline brushed aluminum helps maintain a low temperature on the keyboard and palm rest area for comfortable computing even after the longest sessions. Key Features

• Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core B950 Processor with Intel GMA HD Graphics for better multi-tasking and rich, smooth, built-in visuals (Learn more)
• ASUS Power4Gear optimizes system performance for increased performance and longer mobility (Learn more)
• IceCool Technology makes use of superior component engineering combined with the aluminum surface to keep the palm rest and typing surfaces cool (Learn more)
• ASUS Palm-Proof Technology prevents accidental input by intelligently distinguishing between palm and finger contact (Learn more)
• SuperSpeed USB 3.0 for quicker device charging and up to 10x faster transfers than USB 2.01 (Learn more)
• Altec Lansing speakers enhanced with SRS Premium Sound produce crisp, clear audio reproduction

Learn More Reliable Multitasking Performance

View larger Powered by an Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core B950 Processor with Intel GMA HD Graphics, A53E-EH91 delivers seamless and responsive multi-tasking along with smooth and rich built-in visuals. With the built-in visual capability, users can forgo the costs and power consumption of discrete graphics cards. Equipped with ASUS Power4Gear, select from an assortment of power profiles via the Power4Gear hotkey above the keyboard that optimizes the system for your task at hand—giving the most performance or maximizing battery life. Enjoy the convenience of faster data transfer with the notebook’s SuperSpeed USB 3.0. Comfort and Control Included

View larger The A53E-EH91 has an array of built-in features that are specialized for ease of use. It features a Wave keyboard with numeric keypad and multi-touch trackpad to effortlessly type documents or navigate through your mobile world. The A53E-EH91 also has a spacious palm rest with ASUS Palm-Proof Technology where the trackpad intelligently distinguishes between your palm and finger to prevent errors for a worry-free typing experience. Using an exclusive dual-sided motherboard design, ASUS Ice Cool Technology places heat-producing components away from users to keep the palm rest and typing surface cool for utmost user comfort.

With its sunken-hinge screen design, you will be able to enjoy wider and more ergonomic viewing angles, enabling greater clarity and comfort. Plus, the ASUS Power4Gear utility controls the fans noise level so you can relax with a virtually silent computing experience anywhere you go. Head-turning Style and Convenient Portability

View larger Compact and light, the A53E-EH91 shows off a new streamlined design with ASUS Infusion Technology to give this notebook a scratch-resistant coat with eye-catching style. Opening this mobile wonder, you will notice a new streamlined design and texture made with ASUS Infusion Technology to retain the A53E-EH91 looks and quality even during extensive, prolonged use. The power button also has a built in light indicator so whether you’re in light or dark areas you always know where to find it. Relax, ASUS Has You Covered Ranked as the #1 most reliable Windows-based PC brand in survey after survey2, readers and editors alike choose ASUS as their trusted notebook and netbook. ASUS tirelessly strives to exceed expectations of quality to ensure you an unmatched peace of mind every time you start your PC.

Pin web sites with Internet Explorer 9 (view larger). Windows 7 Home Premium The Best Entertainment Experience On Your PC

Windows 7 Home Premium makes it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. You can even watch, pause, and rewind TV or record it to watch whenever and wherever you want. For the best entertainment experience, choose a PC with Windows 7.

* Additional hardware may be required. Not available in all countries. (See windows.microsoft.com/products/windows-7/system-requirements/ for more information.)
** Requires a compatible microphone, speakers or headset, webcam, and broadband connection.

© 2011 ASUS Computer International. All Rights Reserved. ASUS is a registered trademark of ASUSTeK Computer. All specifications and terms are subject to change without notice. Please check with your supplier for exact offers on selected models. Products may not be available in all markets. Product may not be exactly as shown in photos.

1All figures are theoretical values compared to USB 2.0 benchmarks for reference purposes. Actual speed depends on the device and system status.
2http://commercial.asus.com/promos/ASUSReliability/
3ASUS reserves the right to exclude certain SKUs; check with your retailer to confirm coverage of specific models. Valid for notebooks purchased in the US and Canada only. Certain retailers do not participate in ADP coverage. For complete details, please visit: http://completewarranty.asus.com/.

Check Out Other Great ASUS Products

ASUS A53E-AH51 Versatile Entertainment Laptop

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ASUS U31SD-AH51 Thin and Light Laptop

ASUS Eee Slate B121-A1 Tablet PC

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Popularity: 37% [?]

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Nik Software Captured: The Complete Guide to Using Nik Software’s Photographic Tools
by Tony L. Corbell, Joshua A. Haftel
(5)
Publication Date: November 15, 2011

Buy new: $39.99 $24.68
27 used & new from $22.94

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) More info

Product Description
Learn all the features and functionality of the complete Nik family of products

Styled in such a way as to resemble the way photographers think, Nik Software Captured aims to help you learn to apply all the features and functionality of the Nik software products. With Nik Software Captured, authors and Nik Software, Inc. insiders Tony Corbell and Josh Haftel help you use after-capture software products easier and more creatively. Their sole aim is to ensure that you can apply the techniques discussed in the book while gaining a thorough understanding of the capabilities of programs such as Dfine 2.0, Viveza 2, Color Efex Pro 4.0, Silver Efex Pro 2, Sharpener Pro 3.0, and HDR Efex Pro.

• Helps you learn all the features and functionality of the Nik family of products
• Shares tips and techniques on retouching and exposure
• Offers a solid understanding of the importance of light
• Explores ways to save time in the digital workflow
• Answers the demand from readers to compile a variety of techniques conceived to help when using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, and Apple’s Aperture

With Nik Software Captured, you’ll quickly benefit from the array of helpful techniques featured in this single resource.

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Popularity: 46% [?]

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Marilyn Monroe: Metamorphosis
by David Wills
(2)
Release Date: November 8, 2011

Buy new: $40.00 $24.56
22 used & new from $21.17

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) More info

Product Description

There have been many Marilyn Monroe photo books—but nothing like this.

Curator and photographic preservationist David Wills has amassed one of the world’s largest independent archives of original Marilyn Monroe photographs. Now, in Marilyn Monroe: Metamorphosis, he has gathered spectacular, museum-quality work from Marilyn’s key photographers—Richard Avedon, George Barris, Cecil Beaton, Bernard of Hollywood, Andre de Dienes, Elliott Erwitt, Milton Greene, Philippe Halsman, Tom Kelley, Douglas Kirkland, Willy Rizzo, Sam Shaw, and many others—to create this dazzling portfolio of images from every period of Marilyn Monroe’s adult life, from her wedding day in 1942 till just weeks before her death two decades later. Marilyn Monroe: Metamorphosis pays homage to her continually evolving style and extraordinary beauty.

Among the highlights:

• Previously unseen Kodachrome, dye transfer, and Carbro prints of Norma Jeane from her modeling career.
• Classic portraits and pinups in luscious full color, digitally restored from the original transparencies.
• Never-before-seen photos from the sets of The Seven Year Itch, Some Like It Hot, The Misfits, and Something’s Got to Give.
• Rare candids of Marilyn with Marlon Brando, Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Ronald and Nancy Reagan, Queen Elizabeth II, Joe DiMaggio, Arthur Miller, and others.
• Previously unpublished photos by Richard Avedon, George Barris, Cecil Beaton, David Conover, Elliott Erwitt, John Florea, Tom Kelley, Richard C. Miller, Frank Powolny, Willy Rizzo, Zinn Arthur, and many others.

Pairing more than two hundred first-generation photos with reflections on Marilyn from her friends, work associates, and admirers—and including her last interview, in which she reflects on her life and fame—Marilyn Monroe: Metamorphosis is an unforgettable showcase of the actress’s transformation from an unknown factory worker to one of the most recognized faces in history.

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Popularity: 100% [?]

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LADY GAGA x TERRY RICHARDSON
by Lady Gaga, Terry Richardson
Release Date: November 22, 2011

Buy new: $50.00 $28.52

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Details

Product Description
In this book of original, behind-the-scenes photographs, acclaimed photographer Terry Richardson follows superstar Lady Gaga during one year of her life, from Lollapalooza through the final show of her Monster Ball tour. During the time period he followed Gaga, Richardson took over 100,000 images and attended more than 30 Monster Ball dates around the world. From the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards to the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell repeal rally in Portland, Maine, to the Thierry Mugler show at Maxime, Paris, Richardson captures Lady Gaga as you’ve never seen her before. A year-long global odyssey- -all access, nothing off limits–this is the book Lady Gaga fans have been waiting for.

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Popularity: 5% [?]

According to a USA Today/Gallup poll conducted last week, two-thirds of Facebook users overall were unaware of the new features recently adopted at the social networking site. However, 87 percent of the respondents using Facebook on a daily basis said they were up to speed with the Web site’s latest update.

Consumer advocacy groups have raised concerns about the latest additions to Facebook and how they might be used by criminals. Nevertheless, just 26 percent of the new poll’s respondents who said they visit Facebook every day were “very concerned” about their online privacy, USA Today reported in an article published Tuesday.

A majority of Facebook users (56 percent) disapproved of the latest changes while only 36 percent said they liked them. Nevertheless, 30 percent indicated they visited the popular social networking site several times a day, and with 29 percent using Facebook on a daily basis.

“If there’s one thing Facebook is not afraid of, it’s change,” said Forrester Research Senior Analyst Sean Corcoran.

Laying Claim To Users’ Lives

For Facebook the goal is to radically change the online social networking game by laying claim to the entire life experience of each and every participant using its Web site, according to Corcoran.

For example, Facebook has been testing a new Timeline feature that “recaps in one fell swoop everything you’ve ever posted and lets you feature the highlights,” Corcoran wrote in a blog. There are also “new apps that let you discover and share real-time experiences like watching movies and listening to music.”

The principal benefit for Facebook is that the new features will deliver highly granular data on individual users that Facebook’s advertising clients can harness to more precisely target their marketing efforts at the social networking site. With the latest changes, for example, advertisers will be able to launch innovative… Read more

Popularity: 2% [?]

Amazon is the current tech-media darling after the smashing successful unveiling of its Kindle Fire, complete with its Silk browser and cloud services. Now, some speculate that Amazon will buy what remains of Palm from Hewlett-Packard.

According to media reports, Amazon is in deep negotiations with HP to buy Palm, creator of the webOS operating system that runs on HP’s failed TouchPad. HP paid $1.2 billion for Palm and has decided to kill webOS hardware projects after failing to execute on its strategic plan for the assets.

“Amazon has one device that’s based on Kindle OS and one that’s based on Android. They need to focus on getting all their devices on the same OS so they can have some fun and games with applications,” said Michael Disabato, vice president of network and telecom at Gartner. “It’s possible that Amazon is looking at webOS because Google is taking Android out of the public domain.”

Amazon-Palm Connections

The rumors around Amazon buying webOS aren’t completely far-fetched. Palm CEO Jon Rubenstein sits on Amazon’s board of directors. And Rubenstein has publicly stated that Amazon would make a great partner in expanding the webOS ecosystem. And that’s just the problem: the lack of a robust webOS ecosystem.

“WebOS still doesn’t have as much of an ecosystem as Android or iOS. So without any apps why would anyone want it? People are buying the iPads because they look sleek and they are fancy, but when you come down to it they don’t care about what’s inside it,” Disabato said. “It’s all about the applications.”

In fact, Disabato reasoned that a lack of apps is one of the reasons HP decided to shutter its tablet business. From his point of view, the only reason the HP TouchPad flew off the shelf at $99 was because many consumers believe they can find… Details

Popularity: 57% [?]