Nikon Coolpix P5100

Nikon today announced its new flagship compact digital camera - the COOLPIX P5100. This update from the P5000 uses a variant of Nikon's new EXPEED image processor along with a slightly larger 12.1 megapixel sensor. The lens is unchanged - 3.5x Zoom-NIKKOR optically-stabilized with Nikon's VR technology. However the sensor change has widened the field of view to 35-123mm equiv. The P5100 also has in-camera distortion correction which works in real time to correct the live preview as well as stored images.

Press release (UK):
Nikon is pleased to announce the COOLPIX P5100

Nikon is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX P5100, the new flagship model in the Nikon COOLPIX lineup designed to satisfy photography enthusiasts. Built on a custom application of Nikon's innovative EXPEED digital image processing concept and incorporating the precision optics of a NIKKOR lens, the COOLPIX P5100 is built to realise optimum performance and maximum image quality.

Class-leading imaging ability begins with a full 12.1 effective megapixels of sharp resolution and a new digital image processing engine that reproduce the finest details and subtlest tones with precision and clarity, even when taking advantage of sensitivity settings as high as ISO 3200*. It also includes the compositional freedom of the 3.5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens and compatibility with various converter lenses that further extend wide-angle and telephoto reach.

In addition to a variety of automated and scene modes, four advanced exposure modes offer both enthusiasts and more advanced photographers greater personal control over the camera. The Mode dial provides easy access to these modes, reflecting the COOLPIX P5100’s logical design that works to simplify and streamline operation for the photographer.

Optical lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilisation counteracts the effects of camera shake in lower light or when shooting unsteady subjects to help achieve sharper results. Active full time also stabilises images displayed on the 2.5-inch high-resolution LCD monitor with wide 170-degree viewing angle for easier framing and more reassured shooting.

The quality-crafted body is made of solid magnesium alloy (Mg), featuring a quality finish, a comfortable grip covered in grid-pattern rubber, as well as an optical viewfinder to aid composition, particularly in brightly lit conditions. The built-in accessory shoe adds support for Nikon Speedlights and advanced i-TTL flash control.

*ISO 3200 is available only for image sizes of 5M (2592 x 1944) or smaller.

Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area

Nikon COOLPIX P5100 Feature Highlights

Superb image quality
Excellent imaging quality is a priority for the COOLPIX P5100, from the 12.1 effective megapixels of imaging power produced by its 1/1.72-inch RGB CCD and new digital image processing engine, to its powerful 3.5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens and optical lens shift VR.

Shooting modes that give the user greater control
Four exposure modes accessed via the Mode dial provide greater control over camera operation. Programmed Auto [P] mode automatically selects the optimal shutter and aperture settings. Shutter-priority Auto [S] lets the user select shutter speed, while the camera sets the optimal aperture. Aperture-priority Auto [A] offers 10-step manual control over the aperture setting to let the user decide depth of field, while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed. Manual [M] exposure mode provides full control over both the aperture and shutter speed settings.

Proven lens shift VR image stabilisation
Optical lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction) is field proven technology originally developed for interchangeable lenses used in Nikon SLR camera systems. The VR technology provides the ability to shoot at shutter speeds as much as three stops slower without blurring the image, as well as producing a smoother viewfinder image which aids composition. Nikon's exclusive VR system also yields sharper results when shooting in low light when using the 3.5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens, or when reaching farther with an optional telephoto converter lens.

ISO 3200 capability
Extended light sensitivity range up to ISO 3200* adds the power to shoot more effectively in lower lighting conditions, or to capture fast moving subjects with outstanding clarity. And the new image processing engine produces clear results, even when shooting with high ISO settings.

The convenience of system expandability
Optional system components further expand the photographic possibilities of the COOLPIX P5100. Nikon's 0.67x wide-angle converter (WC-E67) and 3.0x tele-converter (TC-E3ED) lenses are available to extend the range of the attached 3.5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens, while a built-in accessory shoe supports the use of Nikon’s advanced i-TTL flash control for external flashes, including the Speedlight SB-400, SB-600 and SB-800.

*ISO 3200 is available only for image sizes of 5M (2592 x 1944) or smaller.

Nikon COOLPIX P5100 Other Features

• Three Unique Nikon Image Innovations

•  Face-priority AF with improved speed and efficiency
•  In-Camera Red-Eye Fix
•  D-Lighting

• Optimise image for shooting monochrome photographs using a choice of 4 different filters for creative effects, (yellow, orange, red and green)
• Continuous flash shooting helps capture the action by allowing a burst of consecutive flash shots without having to wait for the flash to recharge
• 1:1 size format allows photos to be shot using 1:1 (square) perspective
• Distortion control corrects for barrel distortion in images shot, and even displays the corrected image on the LCD in real time
• Macro shooting from as close as 4 cm (1.6 in.)
• 4x digital zoom extends compositional freedom
• Improved menu interface, available in a choice of 23 languages
• Time zone function for easy setting of multiple locations
• SDHC card compatibility
• Approx. 52 MB of internal memory
• PictBridge support

Release ends

Nikon COOLPIX P5100 specifications

Sensor	• 1/1.72" Type CCD • 12.43 million pixels total • 12.1 million effective pixels
Image sizes	• 4000 x 3000 • 3264 x 2448 • 2592 x 1944 • 2048 x 1536 • 1600 x 1200 • 1280 x 960 • 1024×768 • 640 x 480 • 3984 x 2656 (3:2) • 3968 x 2232 (16:9) • 2992x 2992 (1:1)
Movie clips	• TV movie (640) at 30fps/15fps, • Small size (320) at 15fps • Smaller size (160) at 15fps • Sepia (320) at 15fps • Monochromatic (320) at 15fps • Without sound: Time-lapse movie at 30fps
File formats	• JPEG • Motion JPEG(AVI) with sound
Lens	• 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor (35-123mm equiv.) • f/2.7-5.3 • 7 elements in 6 groups
Optical image stabilization	Lens-shift VR
Conversion lenses	Yes
Digital zoom	Up to 4x
Focus	Contrast-detect TTL AF
AF area modes	• Auto (9-area automatic selection) • Manual (99-area manual selection) • Center • Face-priority AF mode
AF assist lamp	Yes (LED)
Focus distance	• 30cm (1 ft.) to infinity (∞) [W], 70cm (2 ft. 4 in.) to infinity (∞) [T] • Macro close-up mode: 4cm (1.6 in.) to infinity (∞) [W], 40cm (1 ft. 4 in.) to infinity (∞) [T]
Metering	• Through-the-lens (TTL) metering • 256-segment matrix • Spot • Center-weighted • Spot AF area
ISO sensitivity	• ISO 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 2000, 3200 (ISO 3200 5MP or lower) • Auto (ISO 64-800)
Exposure compensation	-2.0 to +2.0 EV in steps of 1/3 EV
Exposure bracketing	Yes
Shutter speed	1/2000 to 8 s
Aperture	• Six-blade iris diaphragm • 10 (in steps of 1/3 EV)
Modes	• Auto shooting mode • Program (auto) • Shutter Priority Auto • Aperture Priority Auto • Manual • Movie mode • Scene mode • High-sensitivity shooting mode • Anti-shake mode
Scene modes	Face-priority AF, Portrait, Landscape, Sports, Night Portrait, Party/Indoor, Beach/Snow, Sunset, Dusk/Dawn, Night Landscape, Close up, Museum, Fireworks show, Copy, Back Light, Panorama Assist, Voice recording
White balance	• Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Flash • Auto, White bal. Preset
White balance fine tune	n/a
Self timer	10s, 3s
Continuous shooting	Single, Continuous (approx.0.8fps ,image quality Normal, image size 10M), Interval timer shooting, Continuous flash
Image parameters	Normal, Softer, Vivid, More vivid, Portrait, Custom, Black-and-white
Flash	• Built-in • Range: (W) 0.3 to 8.0m (1 ft. to 26 ft. 3 in.), (T) 0.3 to 4.0m (1 ft. to 13 ft. 1 in.) • Flash Hot Shoe • Auto, Auto with red-eye reduction, Anytime flash, Flash cancel, Slow sync., Rear-curtain sync.
Viewfinder	• Real-image zoom viewfinder • Approx 80% coverage
LCD monitor	• 2.5-in wide viewing angle TFT LCD with anti-reflection coating • 230,000-dot • Approx 97% coverage (record mode)
Connectivity	• USB • AV out
Print compliance	PictBridge
Other features	• Time zone function • BSS (Best Shot Selector) • D-Lighting • In-camera Red-Eye Fix • In-camera barrel-distortion fix (also available on live preview) • Histogram display • Voice memo • Menus available in 23 languages • Optional wide, tele converters • Optional Speedlight flashguns
Storage	• SD / SDHC card (optional) • Approx 52MB internal memory
Power	• Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL5 (supplied) • AC Adapter EH-62A (optional)
Weight (no batt)	Approx. 200 g (7.1 oz.) without battery and SD memory card
Dimensions	Approx. 98 x 64.5 x 41 mm (3.9 x 2.5 x 1.6 in.) excluding projections

A true Love Story - Worth Reading

One fine day, an old couple around the age of 70, walks into a lawyer's office. Apparently, they are there to file a divorce.

Lawyer was very puzzled, after having a chat with them, he got their story....This couple had been quarreling all their 40 over yrs of marriage nothing ever seems to go right.

They hang on because of their children, afraid that it might affect their up-bringing. Now, all their children have already grown up, have their own family, there's nothing else the old couple have to worry about, all they wanted is to lead their own life free from all these years of unhappiness from their marriage, so both agree on a divorce....

Lawyer was having a hard time trying to get the papers done, because he felt that after 40 yrs of marriage at the age of 70, he couldn't understand why the old couple would still want a divorce..

While they were signing the papers, the wife told the husband..
"I really love u, but i really cant carry on anymore, I'm sorry.."
"Its o.k, i understand.. " said the husband. Looking at this, the lawyer suggested a dinner together, just 3 of them,wife thought, why not, since they are still gonna be friends..

At the dining table, there was a silence of awkwardness.
The first dish was roasted chicken, immediately, the old man took the drumstick for the old lady.."take this, its your favorite.."

Looking at this, the lawyer thought maybe there is still a chance, but the wife was frowning when she answer.."
This is always the problem, you always think so highly of yourself, never thought about how I feel, don't you know that i hate drumsticks?"

Little did she know that, over the years, the husband have been trying all ways to please her, little did she know that drumsticks was the husband's favorite. Little did he know that she never thought he understand her at all, little did he know that she hates drumsticks even though all he wants is the best for her.

That night, both of them couldn't sleep, toss and turn, toss and turn...after hours, the old man couldn't take it anymore, he knows that he still loves her, and he cant carry on life without her, he wants her back, he wants to tell her, he is sorry, he wanted to tell her "i love you"...

He picks up the phone, starting dialing her number....ringing never stops..he never stop dialing....

On the other side, she was sad, she couldn't understand how come after all these years, he still doesn't understand her at all, she loves him a lot, but she just cant take it anymore....phone' s ringing, she refuses to answer knowing that its him..."whats the point of talking now that its over...i have ask for it and now i wanna keep it this way, if not i will lose face.."she thought...still ringing...she have decided to pull out the cord...

Little did she remember, he have heart problems...

The next day, she received news that he had passed away...she rushed down to his apartment, saw his body, lying on the couch still holding on to the phone...he had a heart attack when he was still trying to get through her phone line....

As sad as she could be...she will have to clear his belongings.. .when she was looking thru the drawers, she saw this insurance policy, dated from the day they got married, with the beneficiary being her... And together in those file, there was this note...

"To my dearest wife, by the time you're reading this, I'm sure I'm no longer around, I bought this policy for you, though the amount is only $100k, I hope it will be able to help me continue my promise that i have made when we got married, I might not be around anymore, I want this amount of money to continue taking care of you, just like the way I will if I could have live longer. I want you to know I will always be around, by your side... " I LOVE YOU SWEET HEART"


Tears flowed like river......

"When you love someone, let them know... You never know what will happen the next minute.... Learn to build a life together.. Learn to love each other. For who they are.. not what they are..."

Statue of Liberty | The Making

The Statue of Liberty's Under Construction

Remarkable Photographs

The New York Public Library has recently unveiled some extraordinary pictures of the Statue of Liberty under construction. Take a trip back in time and see extraordinary behind the scenes images of the creation of this superlative structure.

A giant is formed. The sheer scale of the statue under construction can be seen here, in contrast to the workmen posing woodenly for that fairly new invention, the camera.. The more formal name for the statue is Liberty Enlightening the World and it is constructed with sheets of pure copper, even though the picture makes it look something like marble.. It is something of a miracle that we now have the finished product standing proudly on Liberty Island. Had it not been for the contributions of ordinary French and Americans then she would never have arisen in the first instance.

Such is the immensity of the statue one can only wonder whether or not the workmen pictured above had any idea which part of the statue they were working on at any one time. The photographer Albert Fernique, who captured these pictures around 1883, must have been in a certain awe at the immensity of the statue and his images capture its sheer scale and size beautifully. The French had decided to give the United States of America something for their centennial independence celebrations that the Americans and the world would never forget. The process of building was painstaking, slow and fraught with financial difficulties. The copper ?shell' was only what the public would see. What lies beneath - both in terms of its structure and the story behind its ion - is almost as startling

 At the time France was in political turmoil and, although at the time under their third republic, many people looked back at the time of Napoleon and the monarchy before that with fondness and wanted its return. The desire for a backwards step to authoritarianism was worrying. French politicians - as wily then as now - saw Lady Liberty as a way, albeit phenomenally huge, to focus the public's imagination on republicanism as the best way forward. The USA and its centennial of independence from the yolk of England was the perfect focus.

The plaster surface of the left arm and its hand take shape, the skeleton underneath revealed. As there is a deal of work under the carapace, so the French politicians had ulterior motives. Using the USA - which many saw as the ideal of government and populist aspirational politics - the French used the statue as a Trojan Horse in reverse, as it were. Its true purpose, in the eyes of the political gift givers, was to make republicanism the center of political ideology in the minds of the people. How greatly it succeeded can never fully be quantified but the French cannot be faulted for thinking big. It must be said here that the ordinary French, through their substantial buying of lottery tickets (and other fundraising efforts) had a much purer purpose at heart than their politicians.

It must surely have been amazing for the workers to turn up each morning to the sight of a colossal head looking down upon them. The inspiration for the face seems to be the Roman god of the sun, Apollo or his Greek equivalent, Helios. More down to earth sources of inspiration center on the women in the life of the sculptor, Frederic Auguste Bartholdi. It may well have been Isabella Eugenie Boyer, a good looking and well-known figure in Paris at the time. More worrying, some believe the face of the statue actually belongs to Bartholdi's mother. Bartholdi never revealed the true model of the face, but if this is the case Freud would have had a field day.

Bertholdi made a small scale model first, which is still displayed in the Jardin du Luxembourg in the city of the statue's original construction, Paris. Before the statue was shipped to America, though, it had to be seen to be tested. If it had not been for money, it may never have landed in the states - particularly in the form we all know. On a visit to Egypt, Bartholdi's vision of liberty expanded to its present proportions. Had his original idea received financial support, then whatever gift the French gave the Americans for the 1876 centennial could not possibly have been the statue.

Little by little, the statue arises. Bertholdi saw the Suez Canal under construction in the eighteen sixties and was inspired to build a giant figure at its entrance. He drew up plans which bore a remarkable similarity to what now stands on Liberty Island but his ideas were rejected by the Egyptian ruling body of the time because of the financial problems the country was facing at the time. Had the statue been built in Egypt as a lighthouse, the idea would never have been taken up for America. The Statue of Liberty as we know it was in fact used as a lighthouse, from its unveiling in 1886 right until 1902 - the very first in the world to use electricity.

Almost there! There were huge structural issues that had to be addressed in the design and construction of a sculpture of such enormity. Enter a certain Gustave Eiffel, who would later go on to build that eponymous tower which still dominates the skyline of Paris. It was his job (which he delegated to Maurice Koechlin, his favored structural engineer) to ensure that Liberty's copper sheath could move while still remaining vertical. Koechlin created a huge pylon of wrought iron and the famous skeletal frame to ensure that the statue would not fall down in high winds.

Money was always a problem. The plan had been to get the statue to the US by the fourth of July, 1876. Only the right arm and torch were finished by then. However, as the Americans had taken responsibility for the construction of the pedestal, these pieces of the statue were displayed to the American pubic at the Centennial Exposition (in Philadelphia) . Money raised by allowing people to climb this part of the statue (see here) started the funding efforts for the base of the statue. The French did their bit too, showing the head in their own exposition in 1878.

1886 must have been one of those years that people remembered for the rest of their lives. A statue of gigantic proportions, symbolizing the ideas and aspirations of America, was unveiled by President Grover Cleveland at Liberty Island (renamed from Bedloe's Island or Love Island). In an ironic twist, President Cleveland had vetoed the New York legislature from contributing fifty thousand dollars to help with the building of the statue's pedestal. Letting bygones be bygones, President Cleveland was more than happy to officiate at the ceremony. This had not been the only problem to face the statue in the years before its final unveiling, of course. From the model stage, above, to its triumphant moment of revelation, the process was fraught with difficulty - mostly of a financial nature. However, thanks to the efforts of both the American and French people we now have a permanent reminder of what we should hold dear - liberty still symbolically steps forth from her shackles to protect, shelter and enlighten.