Social Call to Riyadhussalam Orphanage by KFS

In commemorating the moment of Iedul Fitri, KFS (Komunitas Fotografer Semarang) made a social call to Riyadhussalam orphanage in Meteseh, Tembalang, Semarang on Sunday (12/10). It was a routine agenda for KFS and called KFS Charity Day. This activity aimed to generate social responsibility among KFS's members. Previously, KFS had already held charity day for several times in different location. This time KFS chose Riyadhussalam orphanage having 30 orphans and 20 widows.

On this occasion, KFS also held a social gathering to tighten the relationship among members of KFS and the orphanage's inhabitants. It started with informal meeting, giving the donation, having lunch together, and a photo session. Martinus Rohadiwantoro, chairman of KFS, gave the donation to the orphanage's caretaker.

The donation was collected from KFS's members. The total amount was Rp 3.925.000. Besides money, KFS also gave two sacks of rice (each 25 kgs), 10 cartons of instant noodles, and clothes. Muchamad Noor Eva A

Kopata Held The 7th Sunday Morning Hunting

As the 7th edition of Sunday Morning Hunting Series, Kopata (Komunitas Photographer Amatir Jogjakarta) held a hunting session on October 12. It took place in Drini beach, Gunungkidul, and the theme was “Model”. This was not just a regular hunting, but moreover it was also a social gathering among members regarding to Islamic Holy Day. Twenty-seven participants and two models joined the hunting session. Regardless of the hot weather, the participants were enjoying themselves on this activity. Meylan Fredy Ismawan

A Big October for New York Photo Events

New York is preparing for a busy October of photo events, made bigger this year with the addition of a big stock photography convention. Fall Photo Week kicks off Monday October 20 with the Lucie Awards. Several Lucie-related talks and events are scheduled for the weekend before the awards. It continues with the annual PhotoPlus Conference and Expo from October 23 to 25. That will be followed by the Picture Archive Council of America (PACA) International Conference and picturehouse trade show. Besides these events, there will be photo art auctions, gallery shows and many peripheral meetings. pdnonline.com | nana

The Price of Pentax K20D Has Dropped

Beginning Sunday, October 12, the price of the PENTAX K20D digital SLR camera body has dropped to US$ 999.95. The 14.6MP Pentax K20D was initially sold at $ 1300. This weather-resistant DSLR features a three-step dust reduction system, the PRIME image processor, sensor-shift image stabilization, ISO sensitivity from 100 to 6400 equivalents, Shake Reduction and more.

Besides K20D, Pentax also reduced the price of Pentax Optio W60 to US$ 299.95 from US$ 329.95. Fully waterproof, the Optio W60 features 10 megapixels and a 5x zoom lens with 28mm wide-angle capability. The Optio W60 operates up to 13 feet underwater for two hours, and can be used in temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). pentaximaging.com | nana

Samsung is working on New DSLR

Samsung is currently working on a new digital SLR, as it was reported by Nigel Atherthon, Editor of What Digital Camera based on his interview with Young-Bae Kim, Director of DSLR business. Young-Bae Kim said that the new DSLR would be quite different to its previous models. He would not reveal any specific features, specifications or even the name of the new camera except that it would be smaller in size than its predecessors, and would be launched in the second half of 2009.

The new DSLR will be a joint development with Pentax. Regarding the rumors that Samsung is developing a full-frame (35mm) sized sensor, Kim said that Samsung will be staying with the APS-C sensor for now. pdnonline.com | nana

The Olympus µ1040 Crystal with Swarovski Elements

Bring more glamour into your life with the Olympus µ 1040 Crystal. Based on the recently-introduced µ 1040, this special limited edition model includes distinctive Crystallized Swarovski Elements that can easily be put on the camera's sliding lens barrier. The ultra-slim µ 1040 Crystal represents a perfect fusion of cutting-edge technology and sophisticated design.

The Olympus 1040 Crystal is a10MP camera with the main features as follow: Intelligent Auto mode, Face Detection Technology, 3x optical zoom, Digital Image Stabilization, TruePic III image processor, movie recording also 2.7" HyperCrystal LCD. For image storage, this camera is compatible with xD-Picture Card and microSD Card. This limited edition camera is available for an approximate price of US$ 303. dpreview.com | nana

BenQ DC C1060, the New C Series

BenQ launched the 10MP BenQ DC C1060, the new C series. The camera features 3X optical zoom, Super Shake Free system with a high sensitivity of ISO 3200 which enables users to take pictures in dim lighting without the need for artificial flash. The camera is also equipped with Smile Catch mode, video recording with optical zoom, P/Av/Tv/M mode and a 2.7" TFT LCD display. There is no further information about the price and availability of the BenQ DC C1060 which also features a leather hand-grip. photographyblog.com | nana

Panasonic Announced Pricing for Lumix DMC-G1

Thursday (10/16), Panasonic announced pricing for the world's first Micro Four Thirds System camera, the Lumix DMC-G1, available in mid-November for a suggested retail price of US$ 799.95, which includes the LUMIX G Vario 14-45mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/Mega O.I.S. kit lens. The 12.1MP LUMIX G1 is loaded with features that both entry-level and more experienced DSLR users will appreciate.  The LUMIX G1 introduces a new Contrast AF (Auto Focus) system that is accurate and fast, Live View Finder and Intelligent Auto Mode. panasonic.com | nana

Photographers' Gathering in Bandung

Sunday (10/12), members of Fotografer.net (FN) Bandung organized a social gathering. It was held due to the moment of Iedul Fitri and aimed to tighten the solidarity among photographers and members of Fotografer.net in Bandung. The social gathering took place in Gegerkalong and was attended by 50 persons. Muhamad Yoddy Saputra