Welcome to the latest addition to Thomas Pitera Photography! This blog will be updated very regularly with information and images that relate to my passion: photography. I plan to cover a variety of topics including news, behind the scenes/technical information about photos, gear reviews, commentaries, and much more! If there is something you would like to see in the Photography Savvy blog, please contact me.
I hope you all enjoy the photos and insights, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Tom Pitera
Earlier this week, Nik Software introduced a new version of its Sharpener Pro software for Adobe Photoshop and Apple Aperture. Highlight features include the addition of U-Point technology, smart filter support, and the ability to save output presets. Perhaps one of the most promising features is the addition of Sharpening Soft-Proofing, a feature that is sure to help save lots of time and test prints.
Sharpener Pro 3.0 will be available this month directly from Nik, and starting in October from your local camera dealer for $199.95. Previous owners of Sharpener Pro 1.0 or 2.0 can upgrade for $99.99. If you're undecided, you can also download a 15-day trial directly from Nik.
Posted to category: News on September 7, 2008
This week's images of the week are a little different from previous weeks. This week we have a time-lapse sequence from Colonial Photo & Hobby in Orlando, FL. I used a D700 to take the sequence, and then compiled it with Quicktime Pro. Enjoy!
Posted to category: Images of the Week on September 7, 2008
Nikon has introduced the D90, its newest midrange DSLR. The camera has a slew of upgrades from the D80 including a new 12.3 MP CMOS sensor, 3-inch LCD screen, Live View, 4.5fps, a broader ISO range (200-3200, expandable to ISO 100 and 6400), and new in-camera editing functionality. Perhaps the most interesting feature about the D90 is that it's the world's first DSLR with the ability to capture video, including 720p HD video.
The D90 will be available starting this September for $999.99 body only or $1299.99 with the new AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens. The AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens will also be available this September alone for $399.99.
Posted to category: News on August 27, 2008
Canon USA has announced the EOS 50D, the latest in its advanced amateur line of DSLRs. Highlight features include a 15.1MP sensor, new ISO range of 100-3200 (expandable up to 6400 and 12800), improved noise reduction, 6.3 fps, a high-resolution 3-inch LCD, and the introduction of the DIGIC 4 processor. Other changes include UDMA support, improved live view, and an HDMI output. The EOS 50D should be available this October with an estimated selling price of $1,399.99 body only, and $1,599.99 with the 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM.
Also announced was a lens that has been requested by many Canon shooters: the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS. Giving a convenient 29-320mm 35mm equivalent focal range and 4-stop IS, this lens should be ideal for those vacations where multiple lenses might be a hassle. The EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS will be available this October with an estimated selling price of $699.99.
Posted to category: News on August 26, 2008
Think Tank Photo is having their first sale. From now until October 3rd, you can save 30% off the Airport Acceleration or Airport Ultralight backpacks. I personally use the Airport Acceleration, and it's one of my absolute favorite bags. It's a very well thought out bag and holds a ridiculous amount of gear for the size. The Airport Ultralight is a little smaller but is able to fit into a hard case such as a Pelican or Storm Case. You can see pictures of both bags after the jump.
Posted to category: News on August 25, 2008
After a long delay, Images of the Week are back. I apologize for the delay and hopefully I will be able to resume regular updates. This week's images are "archived" shots from Disney's MGM Studio's (now known as "Hollywood Studios") Stunt Show.
Posted to category: Images of the Week on August 24, 2008