Pro products previewed at ... photokina.

The 2004 photokina, the 'world of imaging' was filled with a variety of new product introductions, for both film and digital photography. On the high end, there were a range of new digital SLRs and medium format digital backs, lenses, flashes, and other accessories. Notable was Hall 10.1, entirely devoted to imaging software, with first-time exhibitors Microsoft and Extensis; as well as Hall 8.2, where mobile imaging companies Nokia and Deutsche Telekom exhibited for the first time ever at a photokina. Other companies--Sony Ericsson and Samsung showed new camera-phones at their respective booths. Read on for some of the many professional product introductions Digital Imaging saw on display at photokina ...

CAMERAS, LENSES & FLASHES

CANON (www.canoneos.com) showed its latest digital SLR, the EOS-IDs Mark II, with a 16.7-megapixel sensor (see this issue for a full review, p. 28-29).

CREO (www.creo.com) introduced the Leaf Aptus digital camera back. The Aptus product line includes the 17MP Leaf Aptus 17 and 22MP Leaf Aptus 22. The digital backs integrate a new compressed RAW HDR (CHDR) file format. Images can be stored directly to the 20GB Leaf Digital Magazine, depending upon back configuration or to an external FireWire drive. It features a touch screen, graphic user interface, and wireless display technology.

FUJIFILM (www.fujifilm.com) highlighted the FinePix S3 Pro digital SLR and its professional line of films (see the Sep./Oct. issue of DI for more information).

EASTMAN KODAK (www.kodak.com/go/professional) announced significant refinements to the software and firmware for its Kodak Professional DCS Pro SLR cameras providing enhanced performance and workflow through faster processes. Upgraded versions of Kodak's DCS Photo Desk software v4.3 and DCS Camera Manager software as well as a new version of the ERI File Format Module.

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HASSELBLAD (www.hasselbladusa.com) formally introduced its future strategic vision to the industry, following its acquisition of Imacon. Hasselblad introduced its new HID camera at the show. The HID incorporates a 22-MP …