Tag: Camera

Tech Review – Instax mini 99 camera

The Instax mini 99 camera is one of their most advanced yet you could say when it comes to features and comes in one colour only this time around which is odd however we are not complaining as we love all their old fashion styled cameras.

It is on the big side and differs from past cameras when it comes to how it is set up, there is no USB port on the camera so you charge with the little charge box provided that keeps your battery topped which you should do when not in use as these cameras do drain pretty fast especially if out on a shoot and you have plenty of film with you.

The most notable part of the camera is the lens like most of their cameras this twists open to turn on with 0.3-0.6m 0.3-3m and 3m and has a macro mode there is also a vignette setting on top of the lens. Also on front there is the flash and a shutter key.

The camera has two shutter keys this time around and can take photos in vertical or horizontal mode so this is kinda cool I think, There is also two dials this time around and this is where the new tech comes in with this camera, one controls the colours, you have several options here from  FG WT LB SM SP and LL, the other dial controls the light with L+ to D- on it so this means you have two dials to compensate for that perfect picture and one giving Instagram like filters, inside the camera you can see how this works with the LED lights inside.

Instax MINI 99 camera – techbuzzireland

On the back of the camera you have the viewfinder battery compartment and an LCD display which is pretty neat. On the LCD display you have three options Mode, Self timer which is 10 seconds and Flash which has several options which is pretty self explanatory such as red eye and so on. Mode gives you indoor, sports, double exposure which means it blends two shots and finally bulb mode. This camera works quite well in low light.

Overall this camera is great to use whilst missing some features it has others, there is no selfie mirror so you aim and shoot at will here and I am not one to be posting selfies anyway but you can see the samples in the video review another option I felt odd was no charing on device but this is not really an issue, there is no app support like others in their range and other than that the rest is good with bulb mode for long exposure you have got vignette control with a wide lens a focus mode and sports mode which is ideally for those who are into sports.

There is times when some images are overcompensated or blown out but this has been an experience with me in general using these cameras and I am no expert but overall this is still a cool camera and their most advanced one yet with a fixed lens and looks cool even sitting on the table and after your friends or family see it they will want a photo of their own to take home and show off and get to play with all the new options on board.

various shots taken on the instax mini 99

INSTAX MINI 99 Product Features Include:

Brightness Control Dial: This feature offers five distinct levels of brightness: the Light (“L+”) setting indicates the brightest exposure, the “L”, “D”, and “N” settings offer the normal range of brightness, and the Dark (“D-”) setting represents the darkest available brightness level.

Shooting Modes: A variety of shooting modes enhance the user experience, with Indoor Mode designed for low light situations, Sports Mode, which increases the shutter speed to grab the perfect action shot, Double Exposure Mode, which lets the user combine two images into one, and Bulb Mode, which increases the amount of light let in when creating the image, creating a brightened effect on the print.

The camera’s Landscape, Standard, and Macro Focus Modes are easily accessible by adjusting the lens dial. Landscape Mode focuses on subjects positioned at a distance reference of “3.0m and beyond”. Macro Mode is perfect for close-ups and selfies at a distance reference of “0.3m to 0.6m”. Users can select Standard Mode for everything in between.

Self-timer: It is at hand to help create the perfect group image, and MINI 99’s flash controls include Auto mode, Fill-in (flash will always fire regardless of lighting), Red-eye Removal, or the option to turn the flash off, depending on the user’s lighting situation.

Grip and Tripod Mount: To enhance grip in even the most active image-making situations, MINI 99 comes with a precision-milled, Base Grip with Tripod Mount that also acts as a grip when attached to the camera (tripod sold separately).

BUY

 

FUJIFILM launches the INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera – First Look

RATINGEN, Germany, 14th March 2024: FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Solutions Division, announced today the launch of its’ high-end, analog instant camera, the INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera (MINI 99). With its classic and stylish matte black finish, the MINI 99 brings advanced new features including color effect dials, a unique Vignette Switch, plus brightness and focus modes to maximize the potential of each photo while maintaining the traditional INSTAX aesthetic.  

The MINI 99 features a first of its kind Color Effect Dial. This unique dial control has six effects – Faded Green, Warm Tone, Light Blue, Soft Magenta, Sepia, and Light Leak – which allows the user to customize, create and curate a one-time only unique image. Driven by LED lights within the camera, the Color Effect feature exposes the chosen color onto the INSTAX MINI instant film, creating the desired effect on the printed INSTAX MINI photo.

The MINI 99 also comes with an exciting new switch, the new Manual Vignette Switch. Located on the lens housing it can be used to add an artistic shaded frame around the image. 

“Advances in instant photography technology has allowed us to maintain the look and feel our users love, while adding exciting new technology, that will allow them to truly reflect their creativity and artistic expression,” states Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe GmbH. “This is why INSTAX MINI 99 is especially exciting to Fujifilm, and we believe for image makers as well.” 

Other INSTAX MINI 99 Product Features Include:

Brightness Control Dial: This feature offers five distinct levels of brightness: the Light (“L+”) setting indicates the brightest exposure, the “L”, “D”, and “N” settings offer the normal range of brightness, and the Dark (“D-”) setting represents the darkest available brightness level. 

Shooting Modes: A variety of shooting modes enhance the user experience, with Indoor Mode designed for low light situations, Sports Mode, which increases the shutter speed to grab the perfect action shot, Double Exposure Mode, which lets the user combine two images into one, and Bulb Mode, which increases the amount of light let in when creating the image, creating a brightened effect on the print. 

The camera’s Landscape, Standard, and Macro Focus Modes are easily accessible by adjusting the lens dial. Landscape Mode focuses on subjects positioned at a distance reference of “3.0m and beyond”. Macro Mode is perfect for close-ups and selfies at a distance reference of “0.3m to 0.6m”. Users can select Standard Mode for everything in between. 

Self-timer: It is at hand to help create the perfect group image, and MINI 99’s flash controls include Auto mode, Fill-in (flash will always fire regardless of lighting), Red-eye Removal, or the option to turn the flash off, depending on the user’s lighting situation.

Grip and Tripod Mount: To enhance grip in even the most active image-making situations, MINI 99 comes with a precision-milled, Base Grip with Tripod Mount that also acts as a grip when attached to the camera (tripod sold separately).

Accompanying the launch of the INSTAX MINI 99 is the introduction of a new INSTAX MINI film, PHOTO SLIDE. This new film has been inspired by the design of motifs featured on photographic film mounts and complements the print expression of an INSTAX MINI 99. 

Pricing and Availability:

Fujifilm’s INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera will be available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 200.00 (incl. VAT). It is expected to be available for purchase on 4th April 2024 at Fujifilm stockists nationwide. For more product information, visit https://www.instax.ie/cameras/mini-99/

INSTAX MINI PHOTO SLIDE instant film is expected to be available on 4th April 2024 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 10.00 (incl. VAT) per pack (10 sheets), for more information about this new INSTAX mini instant film variety, visit www.instax.ie/film/#film-selector

INSTAX UP! Smartphone App Update

And that’s not it! Fujifilm also announces an update to its free, downloadable INSTAX UP! Smartphone App. The INSTAX UP! Smartphone App is designed for INSTAX users to digitally scan, import, organize, and store their photos in one place, regardless of which FUJIFILM INSTAX instant film, instant camera or instant Smartphone printer product they use. 

The latest addition to the INSTAX UP! Smartphone App is its album feature. Utilizing this clever new feature, users can easily organize and store their digital FUJIFILM INSTAX photos by themes, such as holidays, friends, and favorites. Within the album feature, users can add, tag, share, download and delete INSTAX images from the digital album, encouraging easy organization of the INSTAX digital image collection. A list/box view can be created for each album. The updated INSTAX UP! App is available today.

Unboxing and First Look 

 

NEW Lomography Premium 110 Film Camera with a Glass Lens

Crafted for those who crave spontaneity and live for carefree moments, the Lomomatic 110 is designed to capture  a fragment of every memory with distinctive 110 charm. A window to snippets of your world; wherever the road  leads, whatever escapades unfold, this tiny marvel is a pocket-sized companion for the unexpected twists and  turns of life. From everyday moments to special occasions, capture a glimpse of life through its sharp glass lens  and compact creativity! Available now in the classic silver metal edition and colorful Golden Gate edition, both  with additional flash attachment, it’s time to explore the world with the Lomomatic 110! 

SMALL CAMERA,  BIG ADVENTURES 

Don’t be fooled by its size — this creative companion is bursting with big ideas! It’s a thrilling companion for  analogue beginners, the sharpest and most trusted 110 camera for seasoned photographers, and a nostalgic  voyage for those yearning for the grand old days of 110 film. Opening the door to a world of possibilities with fully  automatic settings, controllable ISO, zone focusing, and interchangeable apertures, it can squeeze into all types  of small spaces for crazy Lomographic perspectives. Ready for anything, the Lomomatic 110 captures fragments  of life, each frame is a glimpse into a spontaneous moment frozen in time, effortlessly transformed into a vibrant  memory. 

WHAT IS 110? 

First soaring to popularity in the 1970s, the simple yet mighty 110 format made photography approachable and  accessible. Though this miniature format faced a period of decline, we brought it back in 2012 and now proudly  stand as the sole brand manufacturing new 110 films and cameras, offering an unparalleled selection of creative  

films, including color negative, black & white, redscale and LomoChrome films as well as the compact Diana Baby  and Fisheye Baby cameras. As part of our dedication to keeping analogue alive – the cutting-edge Lomomatic 110  is now available, ushering in a new era of advanced creativity! 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Film format: 110  

Lens focal length: 23 mm 

Available apertures: Day f/5.6, Night f/2.8 

Maximum aperture: f/2.8 

ISO: controllable 100, 200 or 400 

Shutter speed: Auto (A), Bulb (B) 

Focusing: zone focus  

Flash: “Day”, “Night” and “OFF” manual settings,  

interchangeable color filters included 

Multiple exposures: unlimited 

Tripod socket: no 

Battery: 1 x CR2 (1.5 V)

Lomomatic 110 Camera and Flash Classic Edition
MSRP: £149
https://shop.lomography.com/lomomatic-110-film-camera-flash-metal

Lomomatic 110 Camera and Flash Golden Gate Edition
MSRP: £109
https://shop.lomography.com/lomomatic-110-glass-lens-camera-flash-color-edition

Lomomatic 110 Camera Golden Gate Edition
MSRP: £89
https://shop.lomography.com/cameras/lomomatic-110-glass-lens-camera-color-edition

23 mm Minitar CX multi-coated glass lens
Automatic exposure
Multiple and long-exposure shooting modes
Zone focusing
Adjustable ISO
Lomomatic Flash with colored filters
Metal Wrist Strap & Tin Can for 110 negatives included in flash package

With an innovative sliding mechanism, this portable pleasure can squeeze into any space for crazy Lomographic perspectives, capturing a slice of life on 110 film. Designed for everyday photography, it’s easy for anyone to use! For those less familiar with the 110 format, they have created a dedicated page all about 110 including tips and tricks for mastering creative techniques as well as a list of places to get 110 film developed.

Sony releases FE 24-50MM F2.8 G: a compact, large aperture F2.8 G Lens with high performance optics

Sony has announced the release of its new compact 35mm full-frame compatible α™ (Alpha™) E-mount lens, FE 24-50MM F2.8 G standard zoom with F2.8 maximum aperture over the entire zoom range. Despite its small and lightweight body, it achieves the high-resolution performance and beautiful bokeh that can be expected from a large aperture G Lens with F2.8. It covers a focal length of 24 mm to 50 mm, allowing you to capture everything from still images such as everyday snapshots, and portraits to video shooting, all in high quality but with a design that will easily fit in the smallest of kit bags.

Key features of VX8033

With the latest optical and mechanical design, the dimensions have been kept compact with a filter diameter φ67 mm, maximum diameter 74.8 mm, length 92.3 mm, weight approximately 440 g.

Sharp and detailed images at all focal lengths are achieved thanks to the arrangement of four aspherical lenses and two pieces of ED (Extra low Dispersion) glass, so that aberrations such as chromatic aberration, are reduced, achieving high resolution performance from the center to corner.

FE 24-50MM F2.8 G uses an 11-blade circular aperture which together with the optimisation of spherical aberration provides the beautiful, soft and smooth bokeh that is characteristic of the G Lens series.

It has minimum shooting distance of 0.19 m (AF) at wide-end and a maximum magnification of 0.30 x (AF) offering high quality close-up shooting.

The quality is evident through the AF (auto focus) whereby, equipped with two linear motors, it achieves high-speed, high-precision, high-tracking, and quiet focusing. It also supports high-speed continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking of up to 120 frames per second for the full-frame mirrorless camera Alpha 9 III. For those wanting a solid video performance, AF tracking is available for high frame rate 4K 120p or FHD 240p movie recording where critical focus control is required, plus it supports in-body Active Mode image stabilisation for steady shooting while walking. It is also compatible with the focus breathing compensation on camera bodies, allowing for high quality video expression. Intuitive manual focus is achieved thanks to the adoption of linear response MF which allows smooth and superior image expression.

FE 24-50MM F2.8 G is equipped with user-friendly functions such as a customisable focus hold button, aperture ring, aperture click ON/OFF switch, and focus mode switch, offering high operability and comprehensive control. Plus, for further ease of use, they are designed to be dust and moisture proof[v] with a fluorine coating which prevents dirt from sticking to the front surface of the lens.

Pricing and Availability

The new FE 24-50MM F2.8 G will be available in May for approximately £1150 and €1300 (IR). It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers throughout Europe.

A variety of exclusive stories, videos and exciting new content shot with the newest cameras and other Sony products can be found here. Sony’s European photography hub is available in 22 languages and details product news, competitions and an up-to-date list of Sony events in each country.

The nubia Z60 Ultra: A new era in mobile photography with comprehensive versatility and enhanced image processing

nubia, the leading global smartphone manufacturer and a pioneer in innovative smartphone technology, today launched its new-generation under-display camera smartphone, the nubia Z60 Ultra. This latest model comes equipped with the NeoVision photography system, featuring high-definition optics with three main cameras, setting a new standard in mobile photography. The innovative UDC Full Screen, supported by a fifth-generation flexible under-display camera technology, offers an unstoppable view, boasting a more vibrant display and more natural-looking selfies. Ni Fei, Chairman of nubia Technology Co., Ltd., stated, “Innovation in smartphones that leads to transformative experiences primarily revolves around two elements: the screen and photography. We have dedicated ourselves to five generations of under-display technology, striving to deliver the most pristine and ultimate full-screen experience.”

Engineered for the adventurer, the device is fortified with IP68-rated dust and water resistance, ensuring it stands as a beacon of durability. Additionally, the phone is powered by the groundbreaking Snapdragon 8 Gen3 chipset, a robust 6000mAh silicon carbon negative electrode super battery with the sleek and efficient MyOS 14 operating system, making it a comprehensive and versatile choice for enhanced image processing. 

High-Definition Triple Cameras with Advanced OIS Optical Image Stabilization


Optical system forms the foundation of photography. nubia’s commitment to mobile photography is exemplified by its bold challenges to industry norms and the advancement into the realm of high-end optics. The nubia Z60 Ultra is equipped with the innovative NeoVision photography system, featuring three main cameras — 18mm Ultra Wide Starry Sky, 35mm precision master, and 85mm telephoto explorer camera with high-definition optics. This sets a new benchmark in mobile photography, offering comprehensive advancements across all focal lengths and catering to consumers’ needs in various scenarios.

The new 50-megapixel 18mm ultra-wide-angle starry sky main camera employs a 1/1.55-inch outsole sensor, a 7P aspherical lens, and an f/1.8 large aperture. This combination breaks away from the traditional “wide-angle theory of uselessness,” achieving an industry-leading ultra-low distortion wide-angle main camera. The 50-megapixel 35mm camera features a high-definition optical combination with a 1G+6P lens and f/1.59 large aperture, enhancing light intake, pixel density and photo clarity. 35mm lenses continue to be the ultimate focal length for detailed photography, whilst the 64-megapixel 85mm periscope telephoto portrait lens with a 1/2-inch sensor significantly improves portrait photography.
The focal length layout of the nubia Z60 Ultra is meticulously balanced, and its stabilization system ranks among the best in the industry. It supports triple OIS full optical image stabilization, ensuring steadfast stability in all shooting scenarios whilst further enhancing capture efficiency. Additionally, the main camera is equipped with a blue glass spin-coated IR filter as standard, effectively reducing glare and synergizing with laser focus to easily lock in extraordinary moments.

Computational Photography: Enhancing Starry Sky, Humanistic Photography, and Portraits

Building on its superior optics, nubia NeoVision also advances computational photography capabilities. The Galaxy Night Scene algorithm, a first for nubia, optimizes and adjusts effects on ultra-wide angles. It works in tandem with the sky and earth separation calculation broadening and brightening the captured starry sky. The unique starry sky portrait algorithm allows for clear portraits against the backdrop of the Milky Way. The starry sky coloring function effectively minimizes light pollution and color cast, enhancing the transparency of the starry sky and the Milky Way. Additional features like Star hunting and starry sky time-lapse photography offer users a richer experience in astrophotography.

All three main cameras support lightning capture. In portrait mode users can choose from 50mm classic, 35mm environmental, and 85mm portrait options, capturing the essence of portrait photography at its golden focal lengths. The nubia Z60 Ultra also features a 65:24 ultra-wide movie format and supports 4K 120 frame video, video pre-recording, super night scene video, and super stabilization functions, ensuring high-definition and stable video in all scenarios.

Fifth-Generation Flexible Under-Display Camera Technology: A Comprehensive Upgrade

As a leader in under-display camera technology, the nubia Z60 Ultra showcases the latest generation of flexible UDC full-screen. This includes a screen density of up to 400PPI in the under-display camera area, a full-screen blue diamond arrangement, and support for independent pixel drivers, achieving a clearer and more refined display. The UDC Ultra independent screen display chipset enhances natural color transitions, while the new BOE Q9+ luminescent material significantly improves color display stability. The industry’s largest front-facing single-pixel photosensitive area of 2.8μm, coupled with a front-facing transparent algorithm, further improves the brightness and clarity of front-facing photography and video calls.

Beyond its full-screen capabilities, the overall screen quality of the nubia Z60 Ultra is exceptional. It boasts a 6.8-inch AMOLED large screen with 2480×1116 high resolution, a 2.5D flexible straight screen, and an anti-accidental touch design. The screen covers 100% of the DCI-P3 wide color gamut, supports a 1.07 billion color display, and achieves a local peak brightness of up to 1500nit. Additionally, it supports a 2160Hz ultra-high frequency PWM dimming function and has received SGS low blue light certification, safeguarding eye health.

Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and 6000mAh Large Battery: Setting a New Performance Benchmark

In terms of performance, the nubia Z60 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 8 Gen 3 flagship chipset, significantly enhancing CPU and GPU performance and energy efficiency. The combination of UFS4.0 and memory ensures fast operation, quick application startup, and rapid game loading. The device also features a 6000mAh silicon carbon negative electrode ultra-large capacity battery and is IP68-rated dust and water resistance, providing a comprehensive performance experience for all scenarios.

For gaming, the nubia Z60 Ultra supports a 120Hz screen refresh rate and a 1200Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate, delivering smooth visuals, and responsive controls. The X-axis linear motor provides strong vibration, varied vibration effects, and lower noise, making it suitable for various games and UI interactions. AI frame sensing technology intelligently adjusts frequency and core based on gaming scenes and actions, improving energy efficiency and reducing minor lags. An upgraded battery charging system allows for customized power levels, supporting a power supply mode without charging, maintaining a comfortable temperature and ensuring stable performance.

Isomorphism Universe Design: A Distinctive Flagship Masterpiece

The striking module design on the back of the nubia Z60 Ultra highlights its unique and powerful photography capabilities. Inspired by the isomorphic universe, the design extends the imaging module area to the edge of the phone, offering an expansive and impactful visual experience. This design not only showcases the beauty and depth of the universe but also ensures that the arrangement of the three main cameras avoids internal magnetic interference caused by the OIS and AF systems of the lenses, maintaining optimal photography performance.

The back of the device uses AG flash-sand glass with millions of micron-level crystal structures, giving the phone a flowing silver metallic texture and a cyberpunk futuristic aesthetic. The sides are adorned with an aerospace-grade metal middle frame and support ergonomic customizable sliding keys with five functions: photo taking, mute, recording, flashlight, and game space, all easily customizable and activated with a single toggle.

The nubia Z60 Ultra is available in two color options: Black and Silver. nubia also continues to offer the classic Starry Sky Collection Edition, available exclusively in China for now. Inspired by Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”, the design incorporates the emotional expression and classic colors of the painting, using a starry sky micro-etching process on the glass, and combining it with rich technological overlays to present an eyewear-free 3D star effect. The diamond relief effect perfectly integrates technology with art.

Pricing & Availability

 

The nubia Z60 Ultra will be available in global markets at the following MSRPs:

 

Prices per Currency North America & Global Europe United Kingdom Mexico
8+256G $599 €679 £679 Mex$12,499
12+256G $649 €749 £749 Mex$13,499
16+512G $779 €899 £899 Mex$14,999

You can pre-order the nubia Z60 Ultra, starting today on nubia official website and enjoy our special offers at the nubia Official Website on the following dates: 

  • Official Launch: December 19, 2023 (8.00 p.m. HKT, 1.00 p.m CET, 7:00 a.m. EST)
  • Pre-Order: December 19, 2023 (8.00 p.m. HKT, 1.00 p.m CET, 7:00 a.m. EST)
  • Open Sales: December 29, 2023 (8.00 p.m. HKT, 1.00 p.m CET, 7:00 a.m. EST)
  • Amazon Open Sales: January 6, 2024 (8.00 p.m. HKT, 1.00 p.m CET, 7:00 a.m. EST)
  • Mexico Mercado Libre Open Sales: Mid-January, 2024 (8.00 p.m. HKT, 1.00 p.m CET, 7:00 a.m. EST)

Official Online Stores:

Boom Launch Flagship Conferencing Camera With Intelligent Tracking Features – Boom MAGNA

Boom Collaboration has created its most powerful ever conferencing camera – designed to deliver the ultimate visual performance, backed by the latest intelligent AI features.

The Boom MAGNA Pro features both people and room zone tracking, Ultra HD 4K clarity, a massive 27x zoom plus an array of connectivity options.

Available in the UK from distributor Westcoast, the high spec PTZ camera includes a 70 degree field of view and has been built for professional video meetings, conference rooms, training facilities, boardrooms, live events and broadcast operations.
Boom Co-founder Fredrik Hörnkvist says the MAGNA Pro is the flagship camera in the Texas-based company’s ever-evolving portfolio – combining power with intelligence.

Flagship

“Our mission is to make meetings better in a simple way. This latest innovation is designed to upgrade the video conferencing experience and level up meetings and live events, with Ultra HD 4K at 60fps, intelligent people and zone tracking, plus a huge 12x optical zoom.

“Zone tracking is a new and highly sought-after feature where the camera will only detect someone in a defined space, such as when presenting.”

He continued: “A Sony CMOS sensor and advanced focus technology guarantee superior image quality while multiple video outputs, allow for seamless integration with A/V control systems and live streaming events, delivering enterprise-level video for any space.”

Fellow founder Holli Hulett added: “The MAGNA Pro offers next level collaboration with control protocols for VISCA, IP VISCA, RTSP, RTMP, RTP multi-broadcast and Pelco-P/D. MAGNA Pro easily integrates with A/V control systems or corporate networks to deliver enterprise level video performance. This is undoubtedly our most advanced and powerful camera to date.

Boom MAGNA Pro room location

“Intelligence is key. With AI real-time tracking, zone-tracking, or full manual control, the MAGNA Pro offers a fully hands-on or hands-off experience for any live event or meeting. Packed with connectivity the MAGNA Pro is full of connectivity options. LAN, RS232, RS422/RS485, USB 3.0, SDI and HDMI ensure all bases are covered.”

She concluded: “This premium quality video camera boasts leading auto focus technology and advanced ISP processing for picture perfect output, backed by a three-year warranty.”

Tech Review – INSTAX Pal from FUJIFILM

The INSTAX Pal from FUJIFILM is the latest new gadget on offer and has been a huge hit in my house and with friends that have seen it, how it works is also really great and simple to use and you can connect to compatible printers from the brand too, not only that it also comes with a brand new app which is again simple to use and we go through this in full in the video review below which gives you an insight if you have not yet pulled the trigger on this tiny little camera which should be a gift on your Christmas list this year for sure.

Size is of the importance here and no you do not need to carry a printer with you unless you want to hand out snaps there and then which I guess has been the brands main points over the last few years since they were introduced, for me it is all about the size of the INSTAX cam which is tiny and mega portable and can be used remotely by your phone too via the app or use the shutter key on the rear which you can pre-record the shutter sounds if you wish to do so and you should sure why not the feature is there so avail of it and surprise the folks the other end of the camera.

Note compatible INSTAX – INSTAX mini Link, INSTAX mini Link2, INSTAX SQUARE Link and  INSTAX Link WIDE smartphone printers.

The camera itself has simple functionality which is great to use, there is two apps you can use or just print directly from the Pal camera, you have main shutter button and you have a switch on the bottom showing F and L being Fun and Link you can also tilt the printer to change modes if you wish, we show you all this in the video review below. You can also add storage via micro SD card or store locally.

With the apps you can get super creative and create slides and videos add text, colour, design and much more which is what I like most here and it does more than just print images, this has been present before so if you are familiar with these cameras you know the story if you are creative you can get creative with what is on offer, again see the video and samples if you are not familiar with the options at your fingertips here.

I am by no means a professional photographer nor ever claimed to be but the camera takes nice pictures which you will see on your smartphone the prints may not reflect this at all times but it is best used in brighter scenarios there is also a flash on the PAl camera which helps the situation though and in short it is about fun here and simplicity and most importantly having a photo there and then in your hand as I always say with INSTAX printers and cameras, as mentioned you don’t need to carry the printer as the images taken will transfer across anyway you can save them for later on though after being out testing it is best to have it with you and have prints at the ready be it for family or friends in the office or at home.

 

The Apps

Instax mini Link 2

Pricing and Availability: 

Fujifilm’s INSTAX Pal digital camera is available to purchase at Fujifilm stockist’s nationwide at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 100.00 (incl. VAT) for Milky White, Powder Pink, Pistachio  Green, Lavender Blue versions and EUR 120.00 (incl. VAT) for the Gem Black version. For more product information, visit  https://www.instax.ie/instax-pal/

Video review

 

Groov-e zooms into camera market with its first digital camera for kids under £25

Groov-e, one of the UK’s leading tech brands, has entered the digital camera market for the first time, with an affordable, fun digital camera for children aged four and above.

Available in sky blue or baby pink and boasting a modern ‘cool’ build, the Groov-e Kidz Camera is especially designed for the small hands of budding photographers. Featuring a 40mp camera and 1080p video capture it also has a two-inch HD screen so they can instantly admire their snaps and videos.

Ideal for helping children express and explore their creativity, the functions and controls are designed for little hands and minds, so it’s simple to use and they can get started right away.

Packed with features including 28 photo frames, 16 fun filters including moustaches and glasses and five interactive games as an entertaining way to teach them basic editing skills.

Groove-e digital camera for kids – techbuzzireland

The built-in memory allows for content to be stored on the camera, however the included charging and data transfer cable allows photos and videos to be moved to other devices like computers/laptops and smartphones so they can share their creations with friends and family.

The camera expands Groov-e’s range of affordable tech products for children, joining the new range of Cuties night lights which launched in June this year and the best-selling Kidz bluetooth headphones.

The Groov-e Kidz Camera retails at just £24.99, making it an affordable gift for Christmas this year, and is available now from Groov-e and  from Robert Dyas at the end of October.

Why Multi-Camera Conferencing Represents The Next Generation Of Video Meetings

In an age of video bars and webcams more and more organisations are adding a dynamic new dimension to their remote meetings, by taking a multi-camera approach.

That’s the experience of hardware manufacturer, Boom Collaboration, which has seen growth in ‘live events’ and more intuitive conference calls, rise by over a third so far this year.

The Texas-based company is witnessing a significant acceleration in demand for multi-camera conferencing which it views as an exciting new era for larger remote gatherings, transforming standard meetings into more engaging and powerful customer experiences.

International appeal

Founders Fredrik Hörnkvist and Holli Hulett believe new technology is helping blur the lines between traditional video calls and once complex AV production broadcasting.

Church ceremonies, court rooms, auction houses and healthcare training are some of the most popular sectors so far – as deployments continue to diversify. Industry trade shows are attracting remote visitors where panel debates and live presentations are all benefitting from a multi-angle approach.

Equally larger traditional conference rooms are adding additional cameras for a more intuitive life-like experience – according to the company which has seen a 35% surge in multi-camera sales so far in 2023.

“There’s no doubt we are seeing major growth in live events and remote communication on an international scale across a growing number of sectors,” says Hörnkvist.

“Many of today’s popular software-based meeting apps have the option to share multiple cameras and it’s clear this type of technology adds a new edge to traditional meetings, presentations and live shows.

“Healthcare training for example, is an area where lots of students can witness heart surgery remotely, rather than all being crammed into an operating theatre which wouldn’t be viable. They can view and learn clearly from various camera angles, from anywhere in the world.”

He continued: “Equally there are many conferences, trade shows and industry events that can sell more tickets by having a remote element too. There’s one price to attend in-person plus an online pass option.”

Multi-dimensional meetings

Hörnkvist highlighted: “There are many things to consider when planning a remote gathering. The first is identifying a suitable location with good lighting and audio dynamics. Next is considering camera angles and decor plus how many actual cameras will be used. Technical knowledge is crucial too. Who is going to act as a producer and switch between cameras? How is content going to be shared? Do you need outside expertise? Also, how long will the event last is another factor. You don’t want people becoming bored and losing interest. Interaction is crucial.”

He feels advances in technology open the door to easier management of multi-dimensional meetings – creating more opportunities to enhance the overall customer experience.

“It’s often been a complex and technical process in the past. But advances in technology are inspiring greater user confidence and expertise,” he notes.

“Power and electricity supply capacity can be a challenge. We often recommend using cameras that have a PoE capability. This makes it easier to deploy devices on the same network and improve room aesthetics, without unsightly cables everywhere.”

He says overall appeal will be further enhanced by new solutions such as Boom’s GOJO camera controller, which can manage over 250 devices, if required.

New era

For Hulett the use of high performance 4K PTZ cameras and expandable audio is essential; insisting ‘quality counts’.

She explained: “High quality PoE cameras, expandable audio and easy to use camera controllers/mixing desks are some of the key ingredients for a successful remote experience. Don’t overlook the importance of audio compared to video. If people can’t be heard clearly, then the show is over.”

Hulett began the business with co-founder Fredrik Hörnkvist in 2020, with Boom now embarking on a global expansion drive including the UK and Europe.

She advises: “To overcome some of the fundamental room challenges we always suggest putting the main camera at eye level on the same wall as the display so that it’s natural and easy to engage directly with people. 

“We feel something like a 360 degree camera is actually counter intuitive to the way we communicate as it doesn’t promote natural eye contact and reading of body language cues. Also because more people are using video calls now they are more aware of their physical appearance while on screen. This further enforces the need for high calibre cameras that make the most of a variety of meeting conditions.’

Hulett concluded: It’s about creating a space that goes beyond the traditional video conference room by facing cameras in multiple directions, for more fluid and engaging experiences. We expect these trends to continue to expand and diversify, as a new era and the next chapter in video conferencing begins to unfold.”