Canon and Nikon release new top-of-the-line DSLRs

Canon has announced their newest addition to the E0S Series. The E0S-1Ds Mark III's number of effective megapixels more than doubles its predecessor, the
E0S-1D, at 21.1 megapixels. The camera also introduces a full frame matching the size of 35mm film. Not to be outdone, Nikon announced shortly afterward its own contender for the cutting edge of medium-format cameras, the 12.1 megapixel D3. This is Nikon's first SLR to have a full frame sensor.

From CNET:

"A full-frame sensor is a feature that some Nikon fans jealously eyed in Canon 35mm models. But adding it poses complications, especially for higher-end enthusiasts who've invested in Nikon lenses that support only the smaller DX size or who are considering new lens purchases. DX lenses will work only in a limited 5.1-megapixel mode on FX cameras, and the two formats can pose <>confusing compatibility and performance issues for consumers."

The price tag of Nikon's new FX system comes to about $5,000, and with the neccessary lens upgrades on top of it, this may be out of reach for even the truest, bluest Nikon enthusaists. Canon's E0S-1Ds is priced at $7,999.

Nikon has also opened a free training center on Flickr, the photo sharing website, designed to help everyday people get more out of their digital cameras. Check it out here.

Sony establishes Take Back Recycling Program

Sony has achieved a first: opening a national recycling program for its consumer electronics. Started in collaboration with Waste Management Recycle America, LLC, the program has opened 75 drop-off centers in the United States. There are plans to double the number within the year. Accepted items aren't limited to Sony products, fortunately, as products made by other manufacturers will be recycled—at market prices. The program officially opens on September 15, 2007.

From Sony's announcement:

"By recycling old electronics products, useful materials—such as glass, plastic and metals—can be collected and re-used in the manufacture of other products. Recycling not only minimizes the amount of waste disposed, it also minimizes the extraction of new raw materials from the earth and resources required for processing, saving energy and reducing greenhouse gases in the process."

Will other camera makers like Canon and Nikon follow? Sometimes a camera is busted beyond repair, or no one is interested in purchase. There is some demand for Digital SLR parts in the secondhand market, one that will grow as new versions proliferate. This does not apply to Point and shoots, however, and as their proliferation goes up (the new version has to come out soon, after all) we're simply going to see more and more of them gathering dust.

A complete list of WM Recycle America eCycling Drop-Off centers can be found at Sony's website.