With the iPhone 4 ushering in so many new features, it seems safe to say that the iPad II will inherit many of it's little brother's features.
Here is what I'm betting on:
Retina Display - it's far too sharp with text to NOT put it in the second gen iPad
Front Facing Camera - this will likely be in there because supposedly there is room for it and all iPads are WiFi compatible - the avenue used by FaceTime.
More RAM - I believe the iPad has 256 MB of RAM while the iPhone 4 has 512 MB.
Faster Chip - duh, newer units are always faster, but maybe not by a lot.
SD Card Slot - this might be pushing it, but it'd be cool to see an SD slot on an iPad. It would make for faster image uploading and you could use it for extra storage.
Possible Redesign - we MIGHT see a redesign based on the iPhone 4. Maybe not a glass back, but I wouldn't put it passed them. If not, it may look similar, but with an aluminum back.
No Camera or HD video - it is really nonsensical to add this feature to such a big product. Forward facing camera is likely as mentioned. If there IS one on the back it will be fore FaceTime purposes and likely lower resolution.
I think we could see this as soon as January, but it could be further out and late in 2011. Apple seems to want to make it's products uniform. Just look at the Macbook Pro line. 13-17" are identical except for size. Same with iMacs and even the new Mac Mini has taken on the design characteristics of the iMac. The only odd ball in the group is the regular MacBook. I wont be surprised if this one goes away eventually to make room for a pad between the iPad and the Macbook pro? Why? Because for like $200 more than the Macbook, the lowest end Macbook Pro is way more than $200 worth the hardware in my opinion.
We'll see. It's always fun to see that they're gonna do.
- R
June 28, 2010
June 23, 2010
No worm for the early birds
An interesting twist is occurring in the iPhone 4 launch debacle. It seems that early players in the pre-order game are actually being penalized for their efforts. Many of the pre-order customers who's orders were postponed or processed late in the day are actually getting their precious packages ahead of schedule, while many of the early birds, as it were, are not expecting delivery until at least launch day.
The fact that the orders - for the most part - seem to be scheduled for on-time delivery is a good thing. However, many of those who had conducted the pre-order at the beginning of the day are actually getting their units after the late bloomers.
There has been some variation in delivery times between those who waited at Apple direct stores and those who ventured to AT&T retailers, but other issues are occurring between orders sent form the same location.
For example, I was one of the first four people in the door at the local AT&T store here in Montgomery. No, I'm not a crazed fan - well, yes I am, but I was not rushing to the store to beat every other iPhone patron nor was even there to pre-order, but rather to determine when the online server failure would be resolved. I then discovered that they would be taking pre-orders in-store. Lucky me.
There were four of us there when the doors opened and all of us were greeted by AT&T reps - no lines, at that point. Within 3o minutes the system errors became clear. Within an hour and a half they were unable to process orders and within two hours they were turning people away. The whole thing went from bad to worse in less time that it takes to play a World Cup match, and considering that this is the FOURTH time the phone has been upgraded, you'd think that this wouldn't have happened - but I digress.
Anyway, a few people that I know got their phone pre-orders in well after mine and as it turns out, their devices are getting in sooner. My pre-order was completed at 9:45 a.m. One friend's was completed at 2 p.m. and the other at 6 p.m. How are they arriving? The 6 p.m. order arrived today - a day early - just after lunch. The 2 p.m. order was delivered at 3 p.m. today - again a day early. And mine? The early bird pre-order? It should be here tomorrow. Launch day, yes, but really? The first in line get their's later? My shipping information was "not found" in the FedEx database - like thousands of others. It only updated this morning around 8 a.m. Ironically, it was the first in the system. I guess the guys at Apple started boxing and labeling devices and created a big pile, then, started shipping from the top of that pile. Makes sense...to someone, somewhere, I guess.
At the end of the day, does it matter? No. It just sucks that those who did get their early wound up not getting the priority. I know if I were the first to a restaurant I'd expect to get seated before those who came after me with the same party number. In the end we'll all get to eat, but it's just common courtesy I suppose. I'm a little irked at the situation to say the least, but as I like to say, "I'll live."
- R
The fact that the orders - for the most part - seem to be scheduled for on-time delivery is a good thing. However, many of those who had conducted the pre-order at the beginning of the day are actually getting their units after the late bloomers.
There has been some variation in delivery times between those who waited at Apple direct stores and those who ventured to AT&T retailers, but other issues are occurring between orders sent form the same location.
For example, I was one of the first four people in the door at the local AT&T store here in Montgomery. No, I'm not a crazed fan - well, yes I am, but I was not rushing to the store to beat every other iPhone patron nor was even there to pre-order, but rather to determine when the online server failure would be resolved. I then discovered that they would be taking pre-orders in-store. Lucky me.
There were four of us there when the doors opened and all of us were greeted by AT&T reps - no lines, at that point. Within 3o minutes the system errors became clear. Within an hour and a half they were unable to process orders and within two hours they were turning people away. The whole thing went from bad to worse in less time that it takes to play a World Cup match, and considering that this is the FOURTH time the phone has been upgraded, you'd think that this wouldn't have happened - but I digress.
Anyway, a few people that I know got their phone pre-orders in well after mine and as it turns out, their devices are getting in sooner. My pre-order was completed at 9:45 a.m. One friend's was completed at 2 p.m. and the other at 6 p.m. How are they arriving? The 6 p.m. order arrived today - a day early - just after lunch. The 2 p.m. order was delivered at 3 p.m. today - again a day early. And mine? The early bird pre-order? It should be here tomorrow. Launch day, yes, but really? The first in line get their's later? My shipping information was "not found" in the FedEx database - like thousands of others. It only updated this morning around 8 a.m. Ironically, it was the first in the system. I guess the guys at Apple started boxing and labeling devices and created a big pile, then, started shipping from the top of that pile. Makes sense...to someone, somewhere, I guess.
At the end of the day, does it matter? No. It just sucks that those who did get their early wound up not getting the priority. I know if I were the first to a restaurant I'd expect to get seated before those who came after me with the same party number. In the end we'll all get to eat, but it's just common courtesy I suppose. I'm a little irked at the situation to say the least, but as I like to say, "I'll live."
- R
June 15, 2010
AT&T not "changing everything". Again.
If spotty cell coverage and the inability to tether haven't been reason enough for Apple to consider expanding its wireless carrier relations, today's problematic start to the most anticipated wireless device launch in history surely should be.
In an effort to circumvent customers' problems with getting iPhones in the past - I suppose - Apple decided to offer pre-ordering for the first time ever - that I recall. The iPhone launched in much the same way as the iPod. It was new, and cool and everyone probably wanted one, but not everyone jumped on board - at first. Now the iPod is so popular that it, in fact, is the default name for the entire MP3 player line. Even if you are sporting a Roxio or, dare I say, Zune, everyone asks, "Hey, what are you listening to on your iPod?"
The iPhone went through similar paces with the second generation, the 3G, bringing in a larger crowd and with the 3Gs the iPhone became one of the most popular mobile devices on the planet. The unit, in conjunction with the iTunes, the iTunes Store and the hundreds of thousands of Apps has created a family of usability unmatched by any other manufacturer - period. Sorry Droid. But all of this is separate from the carrier end. Yes, Cingular jumped on board with the Rocker - which was actually terrible aside from the fact that it did iTunes - and visual voicemail and they do provide good data speed compared to some other vendors, but they monopoly on iPhone rights has taken a toll on customers. Something that Apple has had to start answering for more recently.
It becomes harder and harder for Apple to separate itself from AT&T when it comes to coverage problems because even though the two are really mutually exclusive with regard to what they handle in the unit, Apple has been getting some flack for not allowing other carriers, like Verizon for example, have a shot at it. Yes, Verizon's data is not strong, but with a nod from Apple, that would likely be fixed and quickly. But, until the multi-carrier day arrives, AT&T has exclusive rights to do what they want and lately it seems like they want to screw it up.
When the 3Gs launched it was a big enough deal that it spawned record lines of people waiting to either upgrade or obtain the device for the first time. Even here in podunk Montgomery, Alabama, one store saw more than an hundred people in line on launch day. The store only had about 40 phones, but wouldn't tell anyone in the back of the line not to waste their time. What did those toward the rear get after hours of waiting? "Sorry, we're out and there's no rain-checks."
Another problem that's slightly more understandable, but still super frustrating was the early days of activation. I remember being without cell service for more than 10 hours cause the network was clogged. Now, it's a new problem - and it's not even activation time.
As of this post I am - as far as I'm aware - one of only about five or so individuals in Montgomery that actually as a receipt confirming a reserved iPhone 4. Why? Because the AT&T servers can't handle the load. Everything goes smoothly online (or did) until you actually want to pick your phone and then the system crashes and tells you to call an 800 number to upgrade to anything BUT the iPhone 4. The AT&T servers have also screwed up the Apple pre-order deal as well because they are having to tap in to the AT&T system to verify that the customer is either qualified via credit approval or eligible for a product upgrade.
So, I did what any rational person would do. I went to a an AT&T retail store. I went to the source. After 45 minutes in line, I got my receipt. Apparently the main glitch is coming from the address verification component for product delivery. No matter what gets entered, it cannot verify the address and won't complete the order. I wanted mine sent to my office so someone would be there to sign for it. When that wouldn't take the AT&T rep tried the retail store. It too failed. Then she entered my home address. Fail. She just kept trying until finally it accepted the order and printed a receipt. So, as of now, I am a verified pre-owner of the iPhone 4. I have no idea where the phone is going to ship to, but I'll know like two days before it's supposed to arrive when I get an email. Nifty.
Another cool thing that would be awesome for the clerks to know is if someone has to be home to sign for the package and which carrier will bring it. Everything I've ordered from Apple in the past has come FedEx, but we'll see. Since FedEx can deliver from like 7 to 7, it can come any time. If someone has to be at home to sign for it and if everyone is at work trying to make money to pay for it and FedEx wont leave it on the door step, then there is another major problem with the system. FedEx might have thousands of people in line waiting to get their undeliverable iPhones! All because the AT&T reps - at least here - have no idea who is bringing them or how, and they can't get an address in the system anyway.
A work associate of mine was in line right behind me and he called me an hour after I left and said they were turning people away because they couldn't push any orders through. He was told that the manager would personally call him once it was sorted out and as of five hours later - still no word. Since the location I was at opened an hour before the other lone AT&T retailer in the city and since he was right behind me in line, it might be safe to assume that only the first of us who got to a rep first got into the system.
So, Apple offers a pre-order process nine or so days before the actual launch to help streamline the process and ensure supply demands are better met, but AT&T wasn't ready. I'm not sure how this could be the case. Did the IT department take a vacation? Did they fail to see the product reveal? Apple has sold an iPad every THREE SECONDS since it launched and it DIDN'T have a three-year history of loyal owners and 90% of the new owners STILL aren't sure exactly what it's for and AT&T didn't prepare for the iPhone 4?! It makes no sense. This is where AT&T is extremely lucky to be the ONLY provider with the most popular device in the world. Because there are really no repercussions. Big deal if people have to keep coming back and get pissed off - they can't shop elsewhere.
I have an idea. If I am the CEO of the exclusive US carrier of the most popular handset in history and I know that the most significant upgrade to the device is coming since the second generation (really) and they are offering customers advanced purchasing - I'm going to dedicate a server farm to the task and my IT team is going to be getting lots of overtime quadruple checking that the address field works! Yes, I realize that there is an extreme demand on the system, but this is 2010 and we're talking about one of the largest telecommunications companies on the globe. This is stupid.
Luckily, they have nine days to sort it out and hopefully people wont get left out in the rain because they got bumped down a list and there weren't enough phones to go around. Then after nine days of waiting, maybe we'll all be in for a treat when the millions of people got preordered units all try to activate them within a few hours of each other. If the servers and system can't handle an address field, what happens when all those people got to turn on their phones?
The 3Gs activation was seamless - at least here - so there is hope. But it was first come first served and the system was more controlled. You didn't have millions of people all WITH units trying to activate at the same time. This should be fun. For FedEx's sake they can get them all delivered on time...
We'll just have to wait and see...
In an effort to circumvent customers' problems with getting iPhones in the past - I suppose - Apple decided to offer pre-ordering for the first time ever - that I recall. The iPhone launched in much the same way as the iPod. It was new, and cool and everyone probably wanted one, but not everyone jumped on board - at first. Now the iPod is so popular that it, in fact, is the default name for the entire MP3 player line. Even if you are sporting a Roxio or, dare I say, Zune, everyone asks, "Hey, what are you listening to on your iPod?"
The iPhone went through similar paces with the second generation, the 3G, bringing in a larger crowd and with the 3Gs the iPhone became one of the most popular mobile devices on the planet. The unit, in conjunction with the iTunes, the iTunes Store and the hundreds of thousands of Apps has created a family of usability unmatched by any other manufacturer - period. Sorry Droid. But all of this is separate from the carrier end. Yes, Cingular jumped on board with the Rocker - which was actually terrible aside from the fact that it did iTunes - and visual voicemail and they do provide good data speed compared to some other vendors, but they monopoly on iPhone rights has taken a toll on customers. Something that Apple has had to start answering for more recently.
It becomes harder and harder for Apple to separate itself from AT&T when it comes to coverage problems because even though the two are really mutually exclusive with regard to what they handle in the unit, Apple has been getting some flack for not allowing other carriers, like Verizon for example, have a shot at it. Yes, Verizon's data is not strong, but with a nod from Apple, that would likely be fixed and quickly. But, until the multi-carrier day arrives, AT&T has exclusive rights to do what they want and lately it seems like they want to screw it up.
When the 3Gs launched it was a big enough deal that it spawned record lines of people waiting to either upgrade or obtain the device for the first time. Even here in podunk Montgomery, Alabama, one store saw more than an hundred people in line on launch day. The store only had about 40 phones, but wouldn't tell anyone in the back of the line not to waste their time. What did those toward the rear get after hours of waiting? "Sorry, we're out and there's no rain-checks."
Another problem that's slightly more understandable, but still super frustrating was the early days of activation. I remember being without cell service for more than 10 hours cause the network was clogged. Now, it's a new problem - and it's not even activation time.
As of this post I am - as far as I'm aware - one of only about five or so individuals in Montgomery that actually as a receipt confirming a reserved iPhone 4. Why? Because the AT&T servers can't handle the load. Everything goes smoothly online (or did) until you actually want to pick your phone and then the system crashes and tells you to call an 800 number to upgrade to anything BUT the iPhone 4. The AT&T servers have also screwed up the Apple pre-order deal as well because they are having to tap in to the AT&T system to verify that the customer is either qualified via credit approval or eligible for a product upgrade.
So, I did what any rational person would do. I went to a an AT&T retail store. I went to the source. After 45 minutes in line, I got my receipt. Apparently the main glitch is coming from the address verification component for product delivery. No matter what gets entered, it cannot verify the address and won't complete the order. I wanted mine sent to my office so someone would be there to sign for it. When that wouldn't take the AT&T rep tried the retail store. It too failed. Then she entered my home address. Fail. She just kept trying until finally it accepted the order and printed a receipt. So, as of now, I am a verified pre-owner of the iPhone 4. I have no idea where the phone is going to ship to, but I'll know like two days before it's supposed to arrive when I get an email. Nifty.
Another cool thing that would be awesome for the clerks to know is if someone has to be home to sign for the package and which carrier will bring it. Everything I've ordered from Apple in the past has come FedEx, but we'll see. Since FedEx can deliver from like 7 to 7, it can come any time. If someone has to be at home to sign for it and if everyone is at work trying to make money to pay for it and FedEx wont leave it on the door step, then there is another major problem with the system. FedEx might have thousands of people in line waiting to get their undeliverable iPhones! All because the AT&T reps - at least here - have no idea who is bringing them or how, and they can't get an address in the system anyway.
A work associate of mine was in line right behind me and he called me an hour after I left and said they were turning people away because they couldn't push any orders through. He was told that the manager would personally call him once it was sorted out and as of five hours later - still no word. Since the location I was at opened an hour before the other lone AT&T retailer in the city and since he was right behind me in line, it might be safe to assume that only the first of us who got to a rep first got into the system.
So, Apple offers a pre-order process nine or so days before the actual launch to help streamline the process and ensure supply demands are better met, but AT&T wasn't ready. I'm not sure how this could be the case. Did the IT department take a vacation? Did they fail to see the product reveal? Apple has sold an iPad every THREE SECONDS since it launched and it DIDN'T have a three-year history of loyal owners and 90% of the new owners STILL aren't sure exactly what it's for and AT&T didn't prepare for the iPhone 4?! It makes no sense. This is where AT&T is extremely lucky to be the ONLY provider with the most popular device in the world. Because there are really no repercussions. Big deal if people have to keep coming back and get pissed off - they can't shop elsewhere.
I have an idea. If I am the CEO of the exclusive US carrier of the most popular handset in history and I know that the most significant upgrade to the device is coming since the second generation (really) and they are offering customers advanced purchasing - I'm going to dedicate a server farm to the task and my IT team is going to be getting lots of overtime quadruple checking that the address field works! Yes, I realize that there is an extreme demand on the system, but this is 2010 and we're talking about one of the largest telecommunications companies on the globe. This is stupid.
Luckily, they have nine days to sort it out and hopefully people wont get left out in the rain because they got bumped down a list and there weren't enough phones to go around. Then after nine days of waiting, maybe we'll all be in for a treat when the millions of people got preordered units all try to activate them within a few hours of each other. If the servers and system can't handle an address field, what happens when all those people got to turn on their phones?
The 3Gs activation was seamless - at least here - so there is hope. But it was first come first served and the system was more controlled. You didn't have millions of people all WITH units trying to activate at the same time. This should be fun. For FedEx's sake they can get them all delivered on time...
We'll just have to wait and see...
February 9, 2010
The hot and cold in Nikon's latest lenses
My first response? I'm psyched! Finally, Nikon 1.) introduces a world's first and 2.) revisits the professional days of yore. My second response is, well, we'll get to that in a moment.
First up to the plate is the AF-S 16-35mm f/4 G VR; the world's first ultra wide professional zoom with Vibration Reduction. Like all new Nikon lenses this one also receives the N emblem for Nano Crystal coating and inherits Nikon's newest lens styling with a magnesium body and undoubtedly solid, tight construction. The constant aperture of f/4 gives you moderate speed - especially for a lens in this price range. And since we've hit that topic, the lens will be available this month with a $1,260 price tag. Ouch.
The main issue I have with this lens is it's price. It is approximately $600 cheaper than the excellent 14-24mm f/2.8 which, at first glance, looks to be a chunk change - around 33% savings. But when you break down the specs, you really have to ask some tough questions. What are you getting for the extra $600 with the 14-24mm? First, you're getting a wider wide. Second, you're getting an even flow to the next major lens in the Nikon lineup - the 24-70mm f/2.8. There is no overflow from 24-35mm. Not that that's a big deal, but you're technically purchasing more on the long end, which you don't need, if you own the medium tele. You're also gaining a stop of light with the higher end lens.
Now, what does the new baby brother offer that its older sibling does not besides price? First, it offers VR. Many may consider this overkill for a wide angle, but it's a nice feature for sure. Another nice feature is that it will take a filter - even if just for protection purposes - and it's a standard 77mm pro size to boot. The 14-24's bulging front element prevents it from accepting a filter, let alone a normal snap-in lens cap.
Now let's look quickly at how it stacks up against it's closest rival, the Canon 17-40mm f/4L. The Nikon offers a little more on the wide end, but the Canon makes up for it on the long end. Both lenses have quick and quiet AF thanks to Nikon's AF-S and Canon's USM technology. Both lenses offer a constant aperture of f/4 and build wise, both are in the pro end of the lineup. The VR does give the Nikon the technology advantage, but the Canon is much lighter on the pocketbook at under $800. At the end of the day the Nikon might be more technologically advanced and perhaps even sharper, but for nearly $500 more, it is really might not be such a great comparison.
This lens is going to appeal to the prosumer and professional Nikon shooter who simply doesn't need the speed of the 14-24mm. This will likely be a many photojournalists and travel photographers and landscape lovers. For sports shooters, wedding and event photographers and those who work in other low light areas, the 14-24mm will be in tow.
To sum up this lens, I think it will be insanely popular - for those who can afford it -because of what it is: a well-built, wide, pro caliber lens with VR. However, for many shooters in the market for a wide, pro caliber lens fitting this description, the 14-24mm may still win when it comes down to it. Personally, I'd rather cough up the extra coin for the speed of the 14-24mm. There are simply too many times where f/4 wont cut it for me and in the $1200+ range, I want all I can get. I'll sacrifice the filter and VR. But that's just one shooter's opinion. My advice would be, if you don't see yourself in one of the lesser expensive lenses and you're not switching to Canon, think long and hard about your investment to ensure you're getting the most for your money.
Now onto something that's less revolutionary and more evolutionary; the new AF-S 24mm f/1.4G. This is a lens that a lot of Nikon shooters have been waiting for since the 28mm f/1.4 vanished a while back. A super fast, wide angle lens that is quiet and sharp is just what many a pro has been awaiting in the Nikon lineup.
When this baby showed up on the announcement sites last night around 10 p.m. CST you could almost hear the applause of Nikon shooters worldwide.
Up until yesterday, Nikon's fast and wide AF lens selection was rather sparse. Ok, let's face it, aside from the 35mm f/1.8 - which is limited to the DX camera line - it was really non-existant. The new 50mm f/1.4G doesn't qualify as a wide angle and everything else is older than virtually every camera that anyone is really shooting today. None of them were AF-S and all of them were limited to f/2.8 with the exception of the 35mm f/2D. I tried that lens and must have had a bad sample because it's really the worst Nikkor lens I've ever used. It focused dreadfully slow compared to my other lenses and was terribly softness.
Enter the state-of-the-art 24mm f/1.4. It's reportedly razor sharp, quick, quiet and obviously fast. So, what's not to love? The price tag. At $2200 it's a financial beast. It's only $300 less than Nikon's superb new 70-200mm f/2.8 VR II. Bottom line, you've got to know you need it before you put it on the credit card. The shooters who are going to get this know exactly who they are, and perhaps surprisingly to many, that might not be a small crowd. I've read other reports of people suggesting that this lens would pair nicely with the likes of a D40-60. But, just because it will focus on such a camera by no means entitles it to be there. If someone is rocking a $2200 lens on a $400 camera I'll be more than surprised.
The Canon version comes in at around $1800, so prices are again elevated in the Nikon camp, but it is a newer lens and the gap is a little less significant. Nikon has nothing else like it.
So, if you want and need it and have the cash, don't hesitate, get it. It'll be that good. If you're like me, love it all you want, but don't start making room in your camera bag just yet. I'm going to have to weight the cost against the images it will provide me and when all is said and done, I'm probably better off going for the more versatile 14-24mm and saving $300.
Both are great releases and appeal to specific markets. I'm (and the rest of the Nikon world) waiting for the AF-S 85mm f/1.4 VR and I wouldn't mind seeing an AF-S 135mm f/2 VR either. Rumors also suggest an AF-S 35mm f/1.4 as well. The first is a pro staple and the second is a lovely option that many of us would love to see hit the shelves. If they do decide to offer a pro grade high speed 35mm, that too will be news for Nikon. They have promised a surprising release year for 2010, so we'll see.
Until next time, be safe and happy shooting.
- R
First up to the plate is the AF-S 16-35mm f/4 G VR; the world's first ultra wide professional zoom with Vibration Reduction. Like all new Nikon lenses this one also receives the N emblem for Nano Crystal coating and inherits Nikon's newest lens styling with a magnesium body and undoubtedly solid, tight construction. The constant aperture of f/4 gives you moderate speed - especially for a lens in this price range. And since we've hit that topic, the lens will be available this month with a $1,260 price tag. Ouch.The main issue I have with this lens is it's price. It is approximately $600 cheaper than the excellent 14-24mm f/2.8 which, at first glance, looks to be a chunk change - around 33% savings. But when you break down the specs, you really have to ask some tough questions. What are you getting for the extra $600 with the 14-24mm? First, you're getting a wider wide. Second, you're getting an even flow to the next major lens in the Nikon lineup - the 24-70mm f/2.8. There is no overflow from 24-35mm. Not that that's a big deal, but you're technically purchasing more on the long end, which you don't need, if you own the medium tele. You're also gaining a stop of light with the higher end lens.
Now, what does the new baby brother offer that its older sibling does not besides price? First, it offers VR. Many may consider this overkill for a wide angle, but it's a nice feature for sure. Another nice feature is that it will take a filter - even if just for protection purposes - and it's a standard 77mm pro size to boot. The 14-24's bulging front element prevents it from accepting a filter, let alone a normal snap-in lens cap.
Now let's look quickly at how it stacks up against it's closest rival, the Canon 17-40mm f/4L. The Nikon offers a little more on the wide end, but the Canon makes up for it on the long end. Both lenses have quick and quiet AF thanks to Nikon's AF-S and Canon's USM technology. Both lenses offer a constant aperture of f/4 and build wise, both are in the pro end of the lineup. The VR does give the Nikon the technology advantage, but the Canon is much lighter on the pocketbook at under $800. At the end of the day the Nikon might be more technologically advanced and perhaps even sharper, but for nearly $500 more, it is really might not be such a great comparison.
This lens is going to appeal to the prosumer and professional Nikon shooter who simply doesn't need the speed of the 14-24mm. This will likely be a many photojournalists and travel photographers and landscape lovers. For sports shooters, wedding and event photographers and those who work in other low light areas, the 14-24mm will be in tow.
To sum up this lens, I think it will be insanely popular - for those who can afford it -because of what it is: a well-built, wide, pro caliber lens with VR. However, for many shooters in the market for a wide, pro caliber lens fitting this description, the 14-24mm may still win when it comes down to it. Personally, I'd rather cough up the extra coin for the speed of the 14-24mm. There are simply too many times where f/4 wont cut it for me and in the $1200+ range, I want all I can get. I'll sacrifice the filter and VR. But that's just one shooter's opinion. My advice would be, if you don't see yourself in one of the lesser expensive lenses and you're not switching to Canon, think long and hard about your investment to ensure you're getting the most for your money.
Now onto something that's less revolutionary and more evolutionary; the new AF-S 24mm f/1.4G. This is a lens that a lot of Nikon shooters have been waiting for since the 28mm f/1.4 vanished a while back. A super fast, wide angle lens that is quiet and sharp is just what many a pro has been awaiting in the Nikon lineup.
When this baby showed up on the announcement sites last night around 10 p.m. CST you could almost hear the applause of Nikon shooters worldwide.Up until yesterday, Nikon's fast and wide AF lens selection was rather sparse. Ok, let's face it, aside from the 35mm f/1.8 - which is limited to the DX camera line - it was really non-existant. The new 50mm f/1.4G doesn't qualify as a wide angle and everything else is older than virtually every camera that anyone is really shooting today. None of them were AF-S and all of them were limited to f/2.8 with the exception of the 35mm f/2D. I tried that lens and must have had a bad sample because it's really the worst Nikkor lens I've ever used. It focused dreadfully slow compared to my other lenses and was terribly softness.
Enter the state-of-the-art 24mm f/1.4. It's reportedly razor sharp, quick, quiet and obviously fast. So, what's not to love? The price tag. At $2200 it's a financial beast. It's only $300 less than Nikon's superb new 70-200mm f/2.8 VR II. Bottom line, you've got to know you need it before you put it on the credit card. The shooters who are going to get this know exactly who they are, and perhaps surprisingly to many, that might not be a small crowd. I've read other reports of people suggesting that this lens would pair nicely with the likes of a D40-60. But, just because it will focus on such a camera by no means entitles it to be there. If someone is rocking a $2200 lens on a $400 camera I'll be more than surprised.
The Canon version comes in at around $1800, so prices are again elevated in the Nikon camp, but it is a newer lens and the gap is a little less significant. Nikon has nothing else like it.
So, if you want and need it and have the cash, don't hesitate, get it. It'll be that good. If you're like me, love it all you want, but don't start making room in your camera bag just yet. I'm going to have to weight the cost against the images it will provide me and when all is said and done, I'm probably better off going for the more versatile 14-24mm and saving $300.
Both are great releases and appeal to specific markets. I'm (and the rest of the Nikon world) waiting for the AF-S 85mm f/1.4 VR and I wouldn't mind seeing an AF-S 135mm f/2 VR either. Rumors also suggest an AF-S 35mm f/1.4 as well. The first is a pro staple and the second is a lovely option that many of us would love to see hit the shelves. If they do decide to offer a pro grade high speed 35mm, that too will be news for Nikon. They have promised a surprising release year for 2010, so we'll see.
Until next time, be safe and happy shooting.
- R
February 3, 2010
Thoughts on the new Apple iPad
I'm psyched about the new Apple iPad and the upcoming iBook Store. The reason I'm not completely bent out of shape about the new device centers on the fact that it does what it is supposed to do and that's it.
"It doesn't multitask!" So what? About the only thing I would likely really want to multitask would be iTunes and maybe something like Pages or Keynote. The big thing is a lot of Apps, especially the games, now allow you to pull your audio over and run it in the App. Problem solved. Seriously, if I wanted to do major multitasking on the fly I'd pack a laptop.
Remember, this thing is not going to run major third party Apps like Photoshop or Office. So having several things open at once is not a major concern for most users. At work I often have Final Cut Pro, LiveType, iTunes, Safari, Photoshop and Indesign all running in different Spaces simultaneously. But that's on an 8-core system with 16GB of Ram and a heck of a graphics engine. When I want to do major manipulation to photos, video or even extensive work with something like Keynote, it's going to happen on the desktop.
The main things that I would see myself using it for are as follows: Sharing my portfolio. Apple pushes the idea of sharing your vacation and family albums from iPhoto with friends and family on the run. It also works nicely as a digital photo frame when charging on the optional dock. But what Apple failed to hit on is the possibilities this device offers working graphics, photography and video professionals. It just might be the best portable device for sharing your work with potential clients.
It's a sleek and sophisticated device and perfect for the mobile professional. I'd use it to display wedding portfolio images, slideshows, marketing graphics and even film to clients and potential partners. I often meet clients in a relaxed atmosphere like a coffee shop. Pulling this small, light and highly capable device out of a portable sleeve would make the presentation both beautiful and unique. Tons of multimedia professionals are going to pocket (almost literally) these things as tools of their trade.
It is obviously going to be an excellent iTunes video playback device for road trips. For someone who travels often to cover sporting events throughout the southeast and internationally to work with orphans and communities in need, this could prove an ideal travel companion.Checking email, surfing the web, sharing photos and using Apps can all be done with supposedly excellent battery life in a light weight and small profile tablet. The optional photographic accessors which include an SD card reader and USB connection hub should prove valuable to photographers of every style. Ideally either Apple or a third party should create a Compact Flash device since all professional cameras use these media cards. I don't see pros using it as a proofing system for immediate image feedback, but it would be a useful tool on the go as long as it is used within the limits of the devices storage capabilities. For travel and vacation work it should be an exceptionally good tool. If Apple ever rebuilds a full or scaled down version of iPhoto for the device like they did for the iWork suite that would just up the ante for such purposes.
Using the apparently incredible calendar, contacts and notes applications. Without personal experience with these apps it's tough to say exactly how good they can be, but everything points to a far better experience than even the iPhone can deliver. For someone who has to keep up with the schedules of ten athletics teams, my personal work assignments, social activities and my freelance photography and videography work, the calendar application would prove invaluable. I'm also a fan of the Notes app on the iPhone and using it on a larger display could also prove helpful.
The Pages, Numbers and Keynote applications will appeal to a lot of people. For me, Pages would be a definite yes with Keynote coming in a close second. I don't do a lot with Keynote in my line of work, but for $10, you never know. I do use it for teaching photography class and I use it as a large preview/remote device for those presentations. Pages would prove a great productivity application for writing articles on the fly, logging field notes and keeping a travel journal.
And finally, iBooks. This could be cool. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of reading on the Kindle or the Sony Reader. I really like the technology, especially in bright light, but they did such a good job of making the displays look like pages, that, well, it's just like a page. Maybe I'm an odd duck, but I really like reading articles on my iPhone even though the screen is small. It's backlit and easy to read in the dark. And, oddly enough, it's easier on my eyes than the previously mentioned devices. So, regardless of your screen type preference, the interface on the iPad is exceptional. Not only can you change the font size and the font, the interactivity of the book and pages is just play cool and natural. With books being able to embed not only photos, but videos, it brings new life to a once stagnant medium. Now, how could they make this better. Well, if I were smart enough to design my own App that could add usability to the iBooks application, I would add highlighting and the ability to embed notes. The major reason why I have not left the paper book world for the digital counterpart ,even though I love the Green appeal, is because I highlight text and write notes in the margins. If Apple or someone were to add these two features to iBooks then I'd be far more likely to buy the titles of interest in the iBook Store. The features seem rather easy to implement. Just have an opaque color option in the menu bar that you can apply with the touch of a finger. You could simply use the same feature that Apple uses to Copy on the iPhone. Simply tap and hold and then drag the bars where you want them to start and stop and then fill it with the desired color. Adding a note could be simple too. Adding a toggle or pin that when tapped would expand into a note window for making notations about the text, responses or ideas would further enhance the usability of iBooks. It would also likely help promote the addition of college and professional text books to the iBook Store. The last thing, and perhaps the main thing that users are most potential buyers are likely curious about is what titles will be available. When the iTunes store first launched it was difficult to get older tracks and many new releases. That has been improved greatly over the years. With the popularity of iTunes it is likely that publishers will catch on and fast. We will see in the coming months just how many titles - other than major best sellers which will undoubtedly be available - will make their way into the iBook Store.
My final thoughts? I will probably get one. I will, for a time, use it in place of a laptop since I have plenty of power on my desk. Personal use always reveals the strengths and weaknesses that we either didn't know existed or under or overestimated in our preliminary thoughts about the item. Only time will tell, but I'm looking forward to getting one and putting it through the paces. If I had to predict now, it will likely be one of my favorite devices for both productivity and entertainment. The only question now is to 3G or not to 3G. For complete versatility and resale value (just in case) the 3G build is the way to go. But the extra $130 plus the monthly data plan does leave room to question this. But, hey, we have 60-90 days to ponder it. Until we all get our hands on one, we can only wait and hope that it's as well executed as we've been led to believe.
"It doesn't multitask!" So what? About the only thing I would likely really want to multitask would be iTunes and maybe something like Pages or Keynote. The big thing is a lot of Apps, especially the games, now allow you to pull your audio over and run it in the App. Problem solved. Seriously, if I wanted to do major multitasking on the fly I'd pack a laptop.
Remember, this thing is not going to run major third party Apps like Photoshop or Office. So having several things open at once is not a major concern for most users. At work I often have Final Cut Pro, LiveType, iTunes, Safari, Photoshop and Indesign all running in different Spaces simultaneously. But that's on an 8-core system with 16GB of Ram and a heck of a graphics engine. When I want to do major manipulation to photos, video or even extensive work with something like Keynote, it's going to happen on the desktop.
The main things that I would see myself using it for are as follows: Sharing my portfolio. Apple pushes the idea of sharing your vacation and family albums from iPhoto with friends and family on the run. It also works nicely as a digital photo frame when charging on the optional dock. But what Apple failed to hit on is the possibilities this device offers working graphics, photography and video professionals. It just might be the best portable device for sharing your work with potential clients.
It's a sleek and sophisticated device and perfect for the mobile professional. I'd use it to display wedding portfolio images, slideshows, marketing graphics and even film to clients and potential partners. I often meet clients in a relaxed atmosphere like a coffee shop. Pulling this small, light and highly capable device out of a portable sleeve would make the presentation both beautiful and unique. Tons of multimedia professionals are going to pocket (almost literally) these things as tools of their trade.
It is obviously going to be an excellent iTunes video playback device for road trips. For someone who travels often to cover sporting events throughout the southeast and internationally to work with orphans and communities in need, this could prove an ideal travel companion.Checking email, surfing the web, sharing photos and using Apps can all be done with supposedly excellent battery life in a light weight and small profile tablet. The optional photographic accessors which include an SD card reader and USB connection hub should prove valuable to photographers of every style. Ideally either Apple or a third party should create a Compact Flash device since all professional cameras use these media cards. I don't see pros using it as a proofing system for immediate image feedback, but it would be a useful tool on the go as long as it is used within the limits of the devices storage capabilities. For travel and vacation work it should be an exceptionally good tool. If Apple ever rebuilds a full or scaled down version of iPhoto for the device like they did for the iWork suite that would just up the ante for such purposes.
Using the apparently incredible calendar, contacts and notes applications. Without personal experience with these apps it's tough to say exactly how good they can be, but everything points to a far better experience than even the iPhone can deliver. For someone who has to keep up with the schedules of ten athletics teams, my personal work assignments, social activities and my freelance photography and videography work, the calendar application would prove invaluable. I'm also a fan of the Notes app on the iPhone and using it on a larger display could also prove helpful.
The Pages, Numbers and Keynote applications will appeal to a lot of people. For me, Pages would be a definite yes with Keynote coming in a close second. I don't do a lot with Keynote in my line of work, but for $10, you never know. I do use it for teaching photography class and I use it as a large preview/remote device for those presentations. Pages would prove a great productivity application for writing articles on the fly, logging field notes and keeping a travel journal.
And finally, iBooks. This could be cool. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of reading on the Kindle or the Sony Reader. I really like the technology, especially in bright light, but they did such a good job of making the displays look like pages, that, well, it's just like a page. Maybe I'm an odd duck, but I really like reading articles on my iPhone even though the screen is small. It's backlit and easy to read in the dark. And, oddly enough, it's easier on my eyes than the previously mentioned devices. So, regardless of your screen type preference, the interface on the iPad is exceptional. Not only can you change the font size and the font, the interactivity of the book and pages is just play cool and natural. With books being able to embed not only photos, but videos, it brings new life to a once stagnant medium. Now, how could they make this better. Well, if I were smart enough to design my own App that could add usability to the iBooks application, I would add highlighting and the ability to embed notes. The major reason why I have not left the paper book world for the digital counterpart ,even though I love the Green appeal, is because I highlight text and write notes in the margins. If Apple or someone were to add these two features to iBooks then I'd be far more likely to buy the titles of interest in the iBook Store. The features seem rather easy to implement. Just have an opaque color option in the menu bar that you can apply with the touch of a finger. You could simply use the same feature that Apple uses to Copy on the iPhone. Simply tap and hold and then drag the bars where you want them to start and stop and then fill it with the desired color. Adding a note could be simple too. Adding a toggle or pin that when tapped would expand into a note window for making notations about the text, responses or ideas would further enhance the usability of iBooks. It would also likely help promote the addition of college and professional text books to the iBook Store. The last thing, and perhaps the main thing that users are most potential buyers are likely curious about is what titles will be available. When the iTunes store first launched it was difficult to get older tracks and many new releases. That has been improved greatly over the years. With the popularity of iTunes it is likely that publishers will catch on and fast. We will see in the coming months just how many titles - other than major best sellers which will undoubtedly be available - will make their way into the iBook Store.
My final thoughts? I will probably get one. I will, for a time, use it in place of a laptop since I have plenty of power on my desk. Personal use always reveals the strengths and weaknesses that we either didn't know existed or under or overestimated in our preliminary thoughts about the item. Only time will tell, but I'm looking forward to getting one and putting it through the paces. If I had to predict now, it will likely be one of my favorite devices for both productivity and entertainment. The only question now is to 3G or not to 3G. For complete versatility and resale value (just in case) the 3G build is the way to go. But the extra $130 plus the monthly data plan does leave room to question this. But, hey, we have 60-90 days to ponder it. Until we all get our hands on one, we can only wait and hope that it's as well executed as we've been led to believe.
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