Digital Photography Blog: Digital Camera Reviews, Ratings, News, Tips and Tutorials.
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Hardware Zone reviews the Nikon DX2 and writes - 'Handling-wise, we had no complaints with the Nikon D2X. Controls were strategically placed and the durable magnesium alloy body comes armored in rubber seals to keep out moisture and dust. It is built to last too, with a rated shutter lifespan of over 150,000 counts. Up from the D1X's 2.0-inch LCD monitor, the D2X has a 2.5-inch LCD monitor with increased resolution. The improved RGB histogram display, and separate histograms for the individual red, blue and green channels is a long awaited feature too. The viewfinder is clear and bright unlike the tunnel-like view we get from other DSLRs.
The D2X also chalked a few points up for user friendliness with the “Rotate Tall” orientation sensor, World Time function as well as GPS support for those on the go. You can further enhance your mobility by attaching the new WT-2/2A or WT-1/1A wireless transmitter for file transfers or remote control of the camera using a computer running Nikon Capture 4.2 (and later). The multiple exposure and image overlay functions are nice touches too, but not every user would find a need for them.'
Read more about the Nikon DX2 DSLR
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon - D2X Professional Digital SLR Camera'Digital still camera shipments surpassed 63m units worldwide in 2004, up more than 35% on 2003, and should pass 100 million units in 2008, according to the annual report and forecast from US-based Lyra Research. In 2004, Europe overtook the US for the first time as the largest market in terms of unit shipments, with Japan still third.
The forecast is issued to coincide with the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) show in Orlando, FL. As in 2003, sales in the 3-megapixel category were highest, but 5+ megapixel cameras are expected to lead in 2005, with most point-and-shoot cameras now shipping already in the 4- and 5-megapixel range.'
Read more at Europe Leads Digital Camera Boom
Digital Camera Info has a first impression review of the Casio Exilim EX-Z750 and writes - 'The 7.2-megapixel Casio Exilim EX-Z750 packs a lot of power in a 0.9-inch thick compact camera body. While it isn’t as attractive as some of the other Exilim models, it has a traditional brushed aluminum body that weighs only 4.5 ounces. The battery lasts an estimated 325 shots before needing a recharge, which is quite good for a digital camera, although many portable imagers now are surpassing that. With the high megapixel count, there are plenty of resolutions available for photographers who want to print large pictures and those who want to email files. The Z750 has helpful features such as an optical viewfinder and manual focus capabilities as well as some more dynamic and exciting features, such as Past Movie and ID Photo modes. The Casio Exilim EX-Z750 has plenty of manual control options, but users may have trouble accessing them. The Z750 isn’t the most strait-forward camera to navigate, but with incentives like 7.2 megapixels and nearly 30 scene modes, this digital camera will turn heads when it comes out in March for a retail price of $449.99.'
Read more about the Casio EX-Z750 digital camera
Buy the Casio Exilim EX-Z750
From the Sanyo News Release announcing the Sanyo Xacti C5 'The XACTI Digital Movie C5 will be presented in the field of digital imaging: The XACTI C5 sets bold new standards with its unique design. The interior of the youngest member of the C Series is refined and mature as well. The multi-talented C5 combines a dual purpose video and photo camera with the finest technology.'
Akihabara News reviews the Sanyo Xacti C5 and writes - 'An evolution and not a revolution. From an "artistic" point of view, the C5 offers nothing new compared to the C4. The small revolution is on the technical level, which allows the C5 to offer the same performance level as the C4 with 40% less electronics and a considerably thinner body. So, should you get a C5 instead of a C4? Yes, the C5 is an excellent machine, it's a thinner and more transportable machine than the C4.'
Steves Digicams reviews the Sanyo Xacti VPC-C5and writes - 'Bottom line - the Sanyo Xacti VPC-C5 is a hybrid digicam that produces great movies and even better still images. It can be slipped into almost any size pocket or handbag, and with its speedy performance, you can always be certain it's ready to capture those special moments. The only downfall is its limited flash range, but this is heavily outweighed by the positive attributes of this camera. The 5-megapixel images it yields have enough resolution for photo-quality prints up to 8x10-inches, maybe larger. The jury is still out on its interpolated 10-megapixel images (see our sample photo) - there is more resolution but the image quality suffers. Although it's a bit expensive, with a suggested price of around $699, we feel the C5 is worth it. I had a blast using this camera, it really is fun to use and it's a great conversation starter - people will definitely ask you about it. If you're a “lefty” living in the righty world then you owe it to yourself to check out this unique little gem.'
Pentax today announced a new firmware update for the Pentax *istD.
Steves Digicams reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro SLR and writes - 'The Fuji FinePix S3 Pro is a camera with two personalities. In Standard D-Range it produces excellent results both at 6 and 12 megapixel image sizes, but doesn't justify its $2,500 price versus the competiting dSLRs. Set D-Range to Wide and the S3 is transformed into an amazing portrait-taking image processor. Although a bit sluggish in this mode, its results may better satisfy the needs of your portrait business than anything else available today, more than justifying its price.'
Read more reviews of the Fujifilm Finepix S3 Pro DSLR
Get the Latest Price on the Fujifilm Finepix S3
The Sydney Morning Herald has a good article on What you Need in a Digital Camera. They point to some different features that you might want to take into consideration in addition to Megapixels:
Shuttertalk reviews the Ricoh Caplio R1V and writes - 'With the Caplio R1V, Ricoh have produced a consumer camera with some advanced features. While some manufactures prefer to simplify and focus on ease of use, it’s refreshing to see features such as manual focus, ISO 64 to 800, histogram overlay, interval timer and long exposure modes. I would have loved to see aperture priority, shutter priority and manual exposure modes as well, but I guess you can’t have everything.
Design-wise, the wide angle and telephoto range of the zoom lens makes it very versatile and attractive, and the compact, all metal case adds to the durability. The shutter response times and startup speeds nothing short of impressive, ensuring that photographers do less waiting and more shooting. If you’re willing to overlook the image quality issues with noise and over-zealous metering, the Caplio R1V could be the camera for you.'
Read more about the Ricoh Caplio R1V
Megapixel reviews the Fujifilm FInepix F810 and writes - 'The first impression one has from the F810 is that it is not only beautifully crafted, but also offers an impressive set of capabilities. These capabilities start at a complete set of shooting modes and extend to the availability of 2 image formats, the standard format with a 4:3 ratio, and a much less common 16:9 ratio that is probably the wave of the future as it fits the aspect ratio of HD televisions.
The F810 uses one of Fujifilm's own inventions, the Super CCD, a type of sensor that has, since its introduction, been the subject of some controversy. The Super CCD uses octagonal picture elements (pixels) that are arranged in a honeycomb pattern, and which allow the camera to produce an image with nearly double the quantity of pixels than are physically present on the sensor through an interpolation process. And in the case of the F810 with its 6.63 million pixel Super CCD, this translates into a 12 megapixel image size.'
Read more about the Fujifilm Finepix F810 digital camera
Get the Latest Price on the Fujifilm Finepix F810 6.3MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical ZoomHitachi Press Release: Hitachi Ramps 6-Gigabyte Microdrive to High Volume; Company Sweetens Arrival of Higher-Capacity One-Inch Hard Drive with Significant Price Reduction
Users of miniature MP3 players and other storage-demanding handheld consumer electronics can rejoice today as Hitachi Global Storage Technologies begins shipping its 6 gigabyte(a) (GB) one-inch hard drive in high volume. As the leader in one-inch hard drives, Hitachi is raising the stakes by making available the new Microdrive 3K6 with a suggested retail price reduction of up to 60 percent.
With 6 GB, the new Microdrive lets consumers carry even more of what they love—1500-3000 songs, 6,000 pictures (1 MB each) or 8 hours of MPEG-4 video(b). Hitachi is making all this possible, now, at a significant price reduction, retailing the 6 GB Microdrive for $299 USD or pennies per megabyte. Hitachi’s new suggested retail pricing represents the best value of capacity, reliability and performance at a price point that’s affordable to virtually all owners of consumer devices. The Microdrive 3K6 is available in removable Compact Flash Type II and embedded versions.
In its fourth generation, the newest Hitachi Microdrive product combines a mature architecture and unmatched reliability with industry-leading storage capacity. The Microdrive’s high standard of quality and breakthrough capacity are what users of consumer electronics products have come to expect. Hitachi is also seeing growing interest from makers of personal digital assistants and mobile phones in using the Microdrive as the preferred technology for miniature, high-capacity storage.
“The entertainment and experiences that consumers carry with them in portable digital devices are priceless; our intent with the higher capacity and lower pricing of the new Microdrive is to let a greater number of users enjoy the benefit of keeping their precious data close at hand,” said Bill Healy, senior vice president, product strategy and marketing, Hitachi Global Storage Technologies. “The desire for smaller devices with increasingly larger capacities won’t be easily met in the short term, but we believe the 6 GB Microdrive will satisfy consumers’ immediate needs while we work on developing ever higher capacities in future Microdrive products.”
Hitachi recently announced plans for a 20-percent smaller one-inch hard drive with 8-10 GB of capacity. The new drive—nicknamed “Mikey,” the baby Microdrive—is expected later this year.
Priced to Sell
For the first time since its 1999 introduction, the new-generation Microdrive product is being offered at a suggested retail price of $299, representing a 40-percent reduction of Hitachi’s standard debut price of $499 for the one-inch product. The 4 GB version of the Microdrive 3K6 will be offered at $199, representing a 60-percent decrease.
The change in Hitachi’s pricing structure is made possible through a more efficient and developed, high-volume manufacturing process. It was also implemented to enable a greater set of users to enjoy the Microdrive benefits of high capacity, portability and flexibility for use in a host of devices.
“The Microdrive has always been a hot commodity at a great price due to its reliability and unique position in the market,” said Brian Campbell, president, Pexagon Technology. “But now, with lower price points and more capacity, the Microdrive is an even better value for users of handheld devices and digital cameras.”
Pexagon Technology is the North American distributor for Hitachi’s retail Microdrive products. Using a 4 GB Microdrive, Pexagon recently developed a USB-based external storage device under its own label.
A Time Tested Design
Hitachi’s latest Microdrive gives consumers more capacity for less. The 3K6 is intended to satisfy the current appetite for more storage on handheld consumer-electronic applications, especially digital music players, personal digital assistants and digital still/video cameras. Hitachi has increased storage capacity on the new Microdrive 3K6 by 50 percent over the previous generation.
The 3K6 continues the Microdrive family’s leadership in technology, offering a 30 percent performance improvement over its predecessor. The drive is available in 4 and 6-GB capacities and comes to the market in very high demand. Hitachi has significantly increased production to several million units per quarter to meet the growing demand for Microdrive products.
Hitachi has already shipped several hundred thousand Microdrive 3K6 products to customers and retail outlets worldwide. Broad-scale retail availability is expected in late February, depending on the region.
(a) 1 gigabyte = 1 billion bytes
(b) Actual storage may vary depending on compression rate applied
Technical Specifications
• Microdrive 3K6
• 6/4 GB
• 5 mm in height
• 16 grams
• 3,600 rpm
• 78 billion bits per square inch maximum areal density
• 1 glass disk platter
• 2 GMR recording heads
• 2000 G/1ms non-operating shock,
• 200 G/2ms operating shock
• 8.3 ms average latency
• 12 ms average seek time
• 230/280 mA—current (write) for +3.3VDC/+5VDC (+/- 5%)
• 13/15 mA—current (standby) for +3.3VDC/+5VDC (+/- 5%)
• 1.8 Bels typical idle acoustics
• 2.1 Bels typical operating acoustics
Seagate Press Release: Seagate Ships 6GB 1-Inch Hard Drive, Highest Capacity in the Industry
ST1 Series Now the Most Widely Adopted 1-Inch Hard Drive for Handheld Music Players
Seagate, the world’s leading maker of consumer electronics hard drives, announced today it is shipping the industry’s highest capacity 1-inch hard drive, a new 6GB model of its popular 1-inch ST1 Series hard drive for handheld applications. Seagate began shipping this industry-leading 6GB drive in December 2004. The 6GB Seagate ST1 Series can hold up to 150 hours—or 3,000 songs—of high-quality music files (128 kbps), providing breakthrough value and storage capacity for small music players, PDAs and handheld entertainment devices.
Consumers can now keep larger-than-ever libraries of music, video and digital photos in their pockets. Since it was first introduced in June 2004, the Seagate ST1 Series hard drive family has been used in the leading handheld music players and adopted by more entertainment device makers than any other 1-inch hard drive—including Creative, Olympus, Rio, Sanyo, Virgin and others—further confirming Seagate’s status as the number-one choice in consumer electronics hard drives.
Now shipping to select OEM customers in 6GB capacity, and also available in 5GB and 2.5GB, Seagate ST1 Series hard drives also deliver important and unique features for handheld applications. Seagate’s exclusive RunOn Technology ensures consistent music playback while in a high-motion environment, such as jogging—the drive actually senses and compensates for motion to stay on track. And Seagate’s G-Force Protection technology protects the drive against shock from mishandling, increasing the robustness of the devices into which it’s integrated.
“Consumer electronics suppliers demand that drive suppliers meet specific capacity, reliability, and technology requirements,” said Dave Reinsel, IDC program director for Storage Research. “Seagate’s launch of its next-generation ST1 Series 1-inch hard drive only six months after entering the handheld storage market demonstrates the company’s ability to leverage its technology prowess to serve a divergent, expanding consumer electronics market.”
Consumer demand for higher-capacity storage in handheld devices continues to grow, according to In-Stat/MDR, a leading digital communications research organization. “Consumers are aware that storage is something they need to consider when they make a consumer electronics purchasing decision,” said Mike Paxton, senior analyst at In-Stat/MDR. “This is a trend that has become prominent over the last twelve months, as more and more people are building their own digital content libraries.”
“Outside of the music market, handheld video players and other personal media players will increasingly incorporate 1-inch hard drive storage,” Paxton said. “In addition, other products like mobile phones and handheld GPS systems are expected to integrate hard disk drives in the near future.”
“Handheld entertainment device makers and system integrators need a storage partner that can ensure consistent and reliable supply, and provide substantial manufacturing scale, global supply chain and product design support,” said Pat O’Malley, Seagate senior vice president of Consumer Electronics Business Development. “Seagate delivers a complete business and technology partnership that enables growth in the pocket music player market segment.”
Seagate’s unique Design Service Centers (DSC) provide dedicated labs to help device makers and channel system integrators design innovative new consumer electronics products. DSC offer a variety of testing, integration and mechanical analysis services, to help customers design, innovate and deliver a new world of hard drive-capable entertainment.
RunOn Technology: Reliability under high-motion conditions.
People often bring their music player with them when walking, running or during other physical activities. Seagate’s ST1 Series differs from other hard drives because it is designed to compensate for the vibrations and harmonic distortion caused by such high-motion activities. The drive incorporates Seagate RunOn technology, which enables the drive to detect when these unwanted harmonic frequencies occur and automatically keep the read heads on track. Consequently, the RunOn technology can increase the reliability—and customer satisfaction—of a handheld consumer electronics device.
G-Force Protection: Protection against shocks from mishandling.
When many hard drive-based devices are dropped, the read/write heads remain over the media. A hard drop creates a shock that can cause the heads to slap against the hard drive’s platter—pieces of the head can be scattered in the drive, and a microscopic dent can be left on the platter. Seagate understands that drops happen, and builds the ST1 Series hard drive with G-Force Protection, which protects the drive against shock by moving the heads off the platter when the device is powered off. Thus, during a drop, no parts make contact with the media inside the drive. G-Force Protection makes any handheld device using the ST1 Series hard drive more robust and more reliable.
Lyra Research Press Release: Lyra Research Projects Worldwide Digital Camera Shipments Will Exceed 100 Million Units in 2008
In 2004 Europe surpassed the United States in unit shipments
Coinciding with this year’s Photo Marketing Association (PMA) show in Orlando, FL, Lyra Research’s Digital Photography Advisory Service has issued its worldwide digital camera forecast. Digital still camera shipments surpassed 63 million units worldwide in 2004, up more than 35 percent compared with 2003. Worldwide digital still camera shipments will surpass 100 million units in 2008.
In 2004, for the first time ever, Europe became the largest market in terms of unit shipments, taking the top spot from the United States, which is now second in terms of shipments. Japan is the third-largest market.
The 3-megapixel category remained the most popular digital camera segment in 2004, but shipments are increasing in the 4-, 5-, and 6-megapixel segments. Most point-and-shoot cameras now shipping are 4- and 5-megapixel models, and Lyra expects that, by 2005, 5+-megapixel cameras will account for more worldwide shipments than any other segment.
“The desire to produce prints from digital cameras is now a key factor in the consumer purchase decision. Many new camera buyers do not go to the store looking just for a digital camera--they are looking for a total photographic solution,” says Robert Palmer, director of Lyra’s Digital Photography Advisory Service. Camera and printer bundles proved very popular last year, and Lyra expects these solutions to gain further momentum in 2005. “Explosive growth in digital camera sales will fuel the market for photographic prints,” says Palmer. “More than 18 billion prints were produced from digital camera images in 2004, two-thirds of which were produced in the home.”
Lyra Research’s Digital Photography Advisory Service (DPS) is an online competitive research tool for marketing and product managers in the digital camera, photo-quality printer, and online photo-service industries. The DPS provides the advice and insight necessary to tap into the possibilities of today’s digital imaging market.
DP Review has a good review of the Oympus Stylus Verve - a stylish digital camera that is sure to be popular. They write - 'As a straightforward point-and-shoot camera the Stylus Verve does a perfectly good job at a competitive price point. The splash proofing alone will be enough to recommend it to some potential purchasers, and the simplicity of operation will endear it to first time users. I personally like the design, but I know not everyone shares this opinion. It's nice to see Olympus at least trying - albeit in a small way - to offer an alternative to the sea of look-alike silver boxes on the market.'
Read more reviews of the Olympus Stylus Verve digital camera
The Mamiya ZD is coming. Mamiya today announced it will be released during the summer (northern hemisphere) of 2005 and should retail for around £8000 (around US$12500) for the camera body and the £7.500 (around US$11900) for the ZD back.
Press Release: Mamiya are pleased to announce that initial production tests of the ZD camera have been successful. To ensure that the camera meets the high demands and requirements of the professional photographer there are significant field tests now taking place in Japan. It is estimated that these tests will conclude at the end of March and that once any modifications have been implemented full production will start and then be launched during summer 05.
The Mamiya ZD back is in final development and is also due for launch during summer 05.
Mamiya Japan are yet to announce final prices however we estimate that the ZD camera body will be no more expensive than £8k and the ZD back £7.5k.
Since the preview of the Mamiya ZD and ZD back at Photokina last year world-wide demand has been far greater than first expected. Although Mamiya will be ramping up manufacture to meet these demands it is believed that for the first few months they there will be a limited supply and there may not be enough to satisfy all orders.
JP Distribution will have a Mamiya ZD at Focus in the UK but it will be in a locked cabinet. Anyone wanting to handle will be welcome but must do so either before the show has opened or after it's closed. Visit JP Distribution at Focus - stand number E51.
Read more about the Mamiya ZD
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Fujifilm Finepix E550 and writes - 'The Fujifilm Finepix E550 improves on its cheaper siblings, the E510 and E500, and is definitely a quicker and more capable camera. If you are interested in action photography or simply want a more responsive camera, then the E500 is the model for you. It also offers a larger file size due to the 6 megapixel sensor (with 12 megapixel available through interpolation) and a usable ISO 800 mode which is great for really low-light photography. As with the other 2 models, it is also a commendable attempt by Fujifilm to make the finer points of photography accessible to a wider audience.'
Read more reviews of the Fujifilm Finepix E550
Get the Latest Price on the Konica Minolta DiMAGE E500
Camera town reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-V3 digital camera and writes - 'The design of the DSC-V3 allows you to quickly capture a scene the way YOU want. Too many cameras hide important “overrides” deep within their on-screen menus, making it less likely that you'll bother using them, not so on the DSC-V3. Place the camera in “P” or “Green” mode and the camera becomes as simple to use as any point & shoot camera. otherwise switch to shutter-, aperture-priority, or manual mode when you want to capture a scene the way you desire. In Tv (Shutter-Priority) mode you can increase the shutter speed to capture faster action, allowing the camera to automatically adjust the aperture to maintain proper exposure. In Av (Aperture-Priority) mode you can change the aperture size (f-stop) and the camera will automatically adjust the shutter speed. Switch to M (Manual) mode and set both independently.'
Read more reviews of the Sony Cybershot DSC-V3
Apacer Press Release: Apacer Launches 1GB and the World’s First 2GB MultiMediaCard
Lead in the Trend of High Density Development for the Camera Phone Market
Hertogenbosch 23 February 2005 - Apacer Technology B.V. leads in the trend of high density development for the camera phones market and today launches the world’s first highest-density MultiMediaCard (MMC) compliable with MMC Specification Version 3.X, introduced by the MMCA (MultiMediaCard Association). In addition to storing more than 4000 images at 1024 x 768 pixel resolution, Apacer’s 2GB MMC supports plug-and-play with all MMC slots in mobile phones, digital cameras, MP3 players, PDAs and other compatible multimedia devices.
According to IDC, the shipping volume of mobile phones with card slots, reflecting a tremendous run-up, will exceed 246.8 million sets in 2005. “The demand for higher-density memory cards has been growing rapidly over the past years. To make mobile storage more convenient and allow everyone to enjoy the modern digital life, Apacer introduces the world’s first 2GB MMC, the highest density MMC card in the market.” stated Jason Jan, General Manager of Apacer Europe.
All Apacer MMC products have passed the strictest testing parameters to ensure product quality and data storage reliability. Eyeing the potential offered by MMC when applied to various multimedia applications, Apacer will continuously develop flash products with best quality and performance through continuous technology breakthroughs to meet the market demand for higher-density mobile storage. Currently, Apacer’s MMC cards are available in capacities of 32MB, 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, and now introduces 1GB and the world’s first 2GB MMC, the highest density in the world, which will be available in March 2005.
Panasonic Press Release: Panasonic, the leading brand by which Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. is known today, announced that it will expand its “HIGH SPEED Series” SD Memory Card line up by introducing the “HIGH SPEED” 256MB SD Memory Card with up to 2MB/s data transfer speed this April.
Panasonic “HIGH SPEED Series” 64MB and 128MB SD Memory Cards have been already available in the market, and the company plans to introduce larger capacity “HIGH SPEED Series” SD Memory Cards later this year. The “HIGH SPEED Series” SD Memory Cards offer a data transfer speed suitable for storing still images or small-size motion pictures taken with a digital still camera (DSC) and digital video camera (DVC). Together with the current “PRO HIGH SPEED Series” SD Memory Cards (512MB & 1GB) which boast a transfer speed of up to 20MB/s and the “SUPER HIGH SPEED Series” SD Memory Card (256MB) with up to 10MB/s data transfer speed for more advanced usage such as motion picture recording or fast continuous consecutive shooting, the new “HIGH SPEED” 256MB SD Memory Card allows users to select the type of cards depending on consumers’ needs.
The new 256MB SD Memory Card is scheduled to go on sale in April in the United States, with the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of US$44.99.
New Product Feature Outline
The new affordably-priced “HIGH SPEED” 256MB SD Memory Card achieves a data transfer speed of up to 2MB/s, which is suitable for storing high resolution still images taken with a digital still camera. Additionally, its durability and reliability rival that of the “PRO HIGH SPEED” and “SUPER HIGH SPEED” models. It has the industry’s widest guaranteed operating temperature range from -25C to 85C, allowing their use in a variety of environments, from ski resorts to the tropics. All Panasonic SD Memory Cards are assembled under thorough and integrated quality control at the company’s factory in Japan.
Product Development Background
Since its introduction in 1999, the SD Memory Card has come to be used in a wide range of digital products, including digital still cameras and digital video cameras, PCs, PDAs, and cellular phones. Among these devices, DSC is the largest application for the card. The DSC market has recently seen rapid progress toward higher resolution, which has increased the size of data files and the need for the higher capacity cards. At the same time, consecutive shooting is increasing in popularity as a DSC feature. In addition, there is a growing popularity of functions to record and play back video images such as MPEG4 and MPEG2 using memory cards.
Panasonic introduced the “PRO HIGH SPEED Series” (up to 20MB/s data transfer speed) and “SUPER HIGH SPEED” (up to 10MB/s data transfer speed) SD Memory Cards in response to the demands of users who wish to utilize advanced functions such as continuous consecutive shooting or high-resolution motion picture recording.
For those who do not need such advanced functions, but only wish to take and store still images or small-size motion pictures, Panasonic has expanded the “HIGH SPEED Series” SD Memory Card line up. Panasonic anticipates further expanding the line with larger capacity cards later this year.
Specifications:
• Dimensions (W x L x T mm) - 24 x 32 x 2.1mm
• Weight - Approx. 2g
• Number of Pins - 9 (same as existing SD Memory Card)
• Data Transfer Rate - Up to 2MB/s
• Operating Voltage - 2.7 V to 3.6 V
Apple News Release: Apple(R) today updated its iPod(R) photo lineup by introducing a new slim 30GB model, holding up to 7,500 songs, for just $349 and a new 60GB model, holding up to 15,000 songs, for $449. Designed to take your entire music and photo libraries with you wherever you go, both iPod photo models feature a stunning high-resolution color screen for displaying photos and enhancing the entire iPod music experience. Both models hold up to 25,000 digital photos and will feature the ability to import photos from your digital camera via the new iPod Camera Connector for instant viewing and slide show playback on iPod photo.
“The new slim 30GB iPod photo at just $349 lets music lovers enjoy their iPod in full color, including album artwork along with their personal photo library,” said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. “And now you can import photos from your digital camera directly into iPod photo with the optional iPod Camera Connector.”
iPod photo works effortlessly with Apple's iTunes(R), providing music lovers with access to the iTunes Music Store, the number one digital music service in the world. iPod photo features Apple's patent-pending Auto-Sync which works seamlessly with iTunes to automatically download an entire digital music library onto iPod photo with just one click, keeping it up-to-date whenever iPod photo is plugged into a Mac(R) or Windows computer using FireWire(R) or USB 2.0, the standard amongst both Mac and PC users to both charge and update any iPod.
The new iPod Camera Connector is an optional accessory that enables customers to connect their digital camera to iPod photo and import their photos into the iPod. By simply connecting the iPod Camera Connector and a digital camera*, customers can easily transfer digital images to their iPod photo, providing tremendous storage space so they can take more pictures. Imported photos are immediately viewable on iPod photo's crisp color screen, and can also be brought back to iPhoto(R) on the Mac or various photo applications on the PC. The iPod Camera Connector is expected to be available in late March for $29.
Apple's iPod, the iTunes jukebox and the iTunes Music Store are leading the digital music revolution. With over 10 million iPods sold to date, the iPod is the world's most popular digital music player, and the iTunes Music Store is the number one online music store with over 70 percent market share. The new iPod photo is a member of Apple's wildly popular iPod family for both Mac and PC which includes the fourth generation iPod, the iPod mini, the iPod U2 Special Edition and iPod shuffle.
Pricing & Availability
The 30GB and 60GB models of iPod photo for Mac or Windows are available worldwide immediately for a suggested retail price of $349 (US) and $449 (US) respectively, through the Apple Store, Apple's retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers. iPod photo includes earbud headphones, a USB 2.0 cable, a USB power adapter and a CD with iTunes 4.7.1 for Mac and Windows computers.
Optional accessories with the following suggested retail prices include the iPod Dock for $39 (US), in-ear headphones for $39 (US), the iPod Camera Connector for $29 (US) and FireWire cable for $19 (US). Laser engraving is available for iPod for free from the Apple Store (www.apple.com) and can include two lines of text with up to 27 characters per line.
iPod photo requires a Mac with a USB 2.0 port or FireWire**, Mac OS(R) X version 10.2.8 or 10.3.4 or later and iPhoto 4.0.3 or later; or a Windows PC with a USB 2.0 or FireWire port or USB 2.0 or FireWire card and Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 or later, or Windows XP Home or Professional with Service Pack 2 or later, and Adobe Photoshop Album 2.0 or Elements 3.0 or later.
All iPods include rechargeable batteries which have a limited number of charge cycles and may eventually need to be replaced. Battery life and number of charge cycles vary by use and settings. See www.apple.com/batteries for more information. Music capacity is based on four minutes per song and 128-Kbps AAC encoding; photo capacity is based on iPod-viewable photos transferred from iTunes.
Support varies depending on make, manufacturer and model of digital camera.
Firewire options require an optional cable, sold separately.
Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning desktop and notebook computers, OS X operating system, and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital music revolution with its iPod portable music players and iTunes online music store.
PhotographyBLOG has the news that Leica are in financial trouble. Mark points to this statement from Leica:
'Following the ad hoc announcement of Leica Camera AG, Solms, of February 17, 2005, stating that the Company expects a loss of half of its registered share capital in March 2005, the banks have partially terminated their credit lines. The remaining lines still cover the current liquidity requirements. The Company’s Board of Management has entered into negotiations with the banks on a solution that will carry the Company until the time of its Extraordinary General Meeting on May 31, 2005, at which capital measures are to be proposed to the shareholders.'
Digital Camera Info has a first impressions review of the Canon PowerShot SD500 and writes - 'The 7.1-megapixel Canon PowerShot SD500 follows in the tradition of the Digital ELPH line with its compact size and stylish look. However, this model gets a slight makeover with its rounded edges. The added comfort is a welcome feature to the ELPH series, which is known for its flat, sharp surfaces. The SD500 also adds other features that are debuting in the compact line. A custom self-timer lets users choose a time delay between 1-30 seconds. A series of digital color filters, as well as color accents and even a color swap are available.'
Polaroid News Release: Polaroid Corporation announced today, the availability of Polaroid's new x530 digital camera through Circuit City's on-line store: www.CircuitCity.com and Wal-Mart's on-line store: www.walmart.com . The announcement was made at the 2005 Photo Marketing Association (PMA) International Annual Convention, Booth #3532, in the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando , Florida .
The x530 will also be available in Canada, Japan, Germany and the UK by March 31, 2005 . Additional US outlets will be announced soon.
Polaroid's x530 is the first consumer digital camera to incorporate the awarding-winning three-layer Foveon X3 direct image sensor. The new X3 image sensor is the world's only image sensor which directly captures red, green, and blue light at every pixel location, and in layers similar to methods used in color film. The result is richer colors, warmer tones, and sharper images than what is available in competing products.
The x530, with its Foveon X3 direct image sensor, gives consumers a professional class digital camera with features that appeal to a wide range of photographic aptitudes. Beginning photographers will appreciate the x530's point-and-shoot usability, making it easy to take beautiful pictures using the 4.5 Megapixel image sensor, 3X optical zoom, as well as accessing the in-camera editing functions. In addition, consumers looking for advanced features can capture images in RAW “digital negative” format and use the bundled Polaroid PhotoLab software for fine tuning color, exposure and white balance.
News Release: Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the world’s leading independent memory manufacturer, today announced the further expansion of its digital media product offerings with six new products:
* MMCplus cards in 256-MB, 512-MB and 1-GB capacities
* 256-MB MultiMediaCard(TM) (MMC) card
* 1-GB Elite Pro Hi-Speed Secure Digital (SD) card
* 1-GB DataTraveler(R) USB Flash drive
Based on the high-speed MMC card format, the new MMCplus cards offer increased performance and flexibility. Perfect for data-intensive applications such as digital imaging and digital music, the new MMCplus cards feature 2.7-3.6V operation, 26 MHz clock frequency and support x1, x4 and x8 bus widths. The 256-MB, 512-MB and 1-GB MMCplus cards are shipping immediately.
Responding to the need for greater storage, Kingston increased the standard MMC cards to 256-MB, the Hi-Speed SD cards to 1-GB, and the DataTraveler to 1-GB; all are now shipping.
The launch of the new digital media supports the evolving digital market and is aligned with Kingston’s participation in the Photo Marketing Association International show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
“As more cameras, mobile phones and digital devices demand higher speed and greater capacity for their digital media, Kingston will continue to provide our customers with the latest in high-performance digital media solutions,” said Mike Kuppinger, digital media product manager, Kingston. “We targeted the launch of these six new items during PMA to demonstrate our commitment to this booming market,” added Kuppinger.
Kingston MMCplus, MMC, Hi-Speed SD and DataTraveler Products
Part Number MSRP (U.S. pricing only)
MMCplus
MMC/256+ $34.00
MMC/512+ $62.00
MMC/1GB+ $109.00
Standard MMC
MMC/256 $34.00
Hi-Speed SD
SD/1GB-S $109.00
1-GB DataTraveler
KUSBDTI/1GB $99.00
Kingston’s MMC cards and SD cards are individually tested and backed by a lifetime warranty and free technical support. Kingston DataTravelers are subjected to the same testing and come with free technical support and a five-year warranty. For more information on Kingston’s digital media products, please visit http://www.kingston.com/flash.
Corel Press Release: Corel Expands Camera Raw Support with RawShooter essentials 2005 from Pixmantec
Free Software Automates Batch Downloads, Saving Photographers Time and Money While Providing Maximum Control Over Digital Images
Corel Corporation announced that, starting today, it will offer RawShooter essentials 2005 as a free download from its website at http://www.corel.com/downloads. Developed by Denmark-based Pixmantec, RawShooter essentials 2005 enables photographers to automatically import and convert large batches of camera RAW images, saving them time and money with powerful, easy-to-use tools that previously cost hundreds of dollars. RawShooter essentials 2005 works with leading digital imaging software including Corel’s Paint Shop Pro, Paint Shop Pro Studio, Paint Shop Photo Album, and Corel PHOTO-PAINT.
Corel will present the RawShooter essentials 2005 workflow along with its newly expanded portfolio of digital photography and imaging software at PMA in Orlando from February 20- 23, 2005.
The ideal staging area for RAW format users to begin their photo projects, RawShooter essentials 2005 enables photographers of all skill levels to efficiently view, prioritize, and process large batches of camera RAW images. During the RAW conversion process, users may apply image adjustments, including color and exposure corrections, sharpening, and noise suppression. The result is a set of TIFF or JPEG files that can be easily opened in Corel’s digital photography software where more advanced image enhancements can then be performed.
In Paint Shop Pro 9, for example, users can easily apply localized color changes, crop, retouch or merge multiple photos into stunning panoramas. With Corel Painter IX, the world’s best Natural-Media painting and illustration tool, photographers can reveal new dimensions of their favorite photographs by applying unique artistic effects. Even those new to digital photography can take their converted camera RAW images and use Paint Shop Photo Album 5 to create memorable coffee table books, distinctive album pages, video CDs, slide shows, or web galleries, while easily archiving favorite collections on CD or DVD.
“Corel is committed to creating exceptional experiences for our customers,” said Michael Greenhalgh, Product Line Manager for the Paint Shop family. “In addition to delivering powerful, affordable, and easy to use software, we also provide a wide range of options for users to express their individual creativity, whether they’re brand new to digital photography or a seasoned professional. Working with Pixmantec, we are now able to provide users with a workflow solution that allows them to work more efficiently while maximizing their control over the final product.”
“Our goal in designing RawShooter essentials 2005 was to provide users with superior image quality as well as the fastest workflow
ever experienced by digital photographers shooting in camera RAW formats,” said Michael Jonsson, CTO and Chief Software Architect of Pixmantec. “Based on the initial feedback we’ve received from Paint Shop Pro users, we feel confident that we’ve met this objective.”
Added Kenneth Tang Laerke, CEO of Pixmantec: “We’re proud to be associated with Corel given its impressive track record of innovation and its credentials as one of the world’s top ten software brands.”
“I have been using RawShooter essentials 2005 exclusively for the past few months to convert my images,” said Andy Rouse, Professional Wildlife Photographer. “Only a day after returning from a recent trip, I took my initial batch of 6500 photographs and easily edited this down to just under 1000 shots. I then converted and enhanced the 182 best images using RawShooter essentials 2005. Once I’ve finished working with my photos in RawShooter essentials 2005, its easy for me to move them into a software package like Paint Shop Pro to apply additional enhancements. Combining power, ease-of-use, and versatility, these tools allow photographers like me to spend less time at the computer and more time discovering new subjects that inspire us.”
For more information on Corel Corporation or to download a free, full-featured trial version of the company’s award-winning software, please visit http://www.corel.com.
For more information on Pixmantec, please visit http://www.pixmantec.com.
Pixmantec will be demonstrating RawShooter essentials 2005 at PMA in the USA (booth 2463) and at Focus on Imaging in the UK. For further details please visit http://www.pixmantec.com where you can find a dedicated press area containing further information about Pixmantec and it’s revolutionary products. Pixmantec in brief….
Pixmantec is located in Copenhagen, Denmark. The company was founded in 2004 by Michael Jonsson and Kenneth T. Laerke.
In 2005, Pixmantec is planning to launch several digital imaging software applications on the Windows platform only split into separate product lines each supporting individual digital image file formats (JPEG / RAW Adobe DNG). The software applications are designed for both professional photographers and amateurs given the recent explosion in sales of digital cameras and associated software in both consumer sectors. The tools provided by Pixmantec for image editing are based on patent-pending proprietary technologies.
Omnivision News Release: Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:OVTI), one of the world's leading suppliers of CMOS image sensors, reported today that its OV5610 5-megapixel camera chip has achieved eight design wins in the digital still camera (DSC) and video camera markets. These design wins represent the first uses of a 5-megapixel CMOS image sensor to process both still and video images in mass market consumer devices.
The market introduction of the OV5610 last September marked the industry's first high-end CMOS sensor that competes head-to-head with similar CCD devices. Up to this point, single-chip CMOS image sensors have served the low-end DSC market, while CCD sensors have served the high-end DSC and camcorder markets. With these design wins, the OV5610 will appear in digital still, video and hybrid cameras, and personal media players.
“These design wins demonstrate that our product delivers both the still and video image quality of CCD technology while measurably reducing cost,” said Jason Liu, senior product marketing manager at OmniVision. “They also mark the emergence of CMOS as a viable high-end alternative to costly CCD technology and further reinforce OmniVision's technology leadership in the CMOS image sensor space.”
The OV5610 architecture is based around OmniPixel(TM) technology. The sensor's 2.775-micron pixels allowed OmniVision to design its 5-megapixel device with an optical format (footprint) of just 1/1.8 inches. It incorporates a 2592 x 1944 image array and an on-chip 10-bit A/D converter capable of operating at 30 frames per second (FPS) in VGA resolution. OmniVision's sensor technology utilizes advanced algorithms to cancel fixed pattern noise (FPN), eliminate smearing, drastically reduce blooming and virtually eliminate dark current.
Photography Blog reviews the Casio Exilim Pro EX-P700 digital camera and writes - 'The Casio Exilim Pro EX-P700 is an extremely well-made, intuitive and feature-rich 7 megapixel digital camera that should be on your wish-list if you are looking for a mid-sized model that doesn't sacrifice functionality for size. Image quality was very good with the ISO range and night shots being stand-out features. Casio may not be the first name that you associate with digital cameras, but they have definitely produced a very capable camera in the Casio Exilim Pro EX-P700. There are a few downsides to note, as with any camera. The LCD screen is slightly grainy, the tripod mount is very poorly positioned, and it takes 40 seconds to format a memory card.'
Graphics.com has a good tips tutorial on Eliminating Red Eye with Quick Fix In Photoshop Elements 3:
'One of the most significant improvements in Elements 3 is the way you can dramatically improve the appearance of a photo with just a click or two—even if you have no idea of what you’re doing. The Quick Fix window gathers together easy to use tools that can help you adjust the brightness and color of your photos and make them look sharper. You don’t need to understand much about what you’re doing, either. You just need to know how to click a button or slide a pointer with your mouse, and then decide whether you like the look of what you just did. If, on the other hand, you do know what you’re doing, you may still find yourself adjusting things like shadows and highlights in the Quick Fix window because it’s the only place in Elements that gives you a before-and-after view as you work. In this article, you’ll learn how to use all the tools available to you in the Quick Fix window. You’ll also learn about what order to apply the fixes so you get the most out of all the tools.'
Lexar News Release: Lexar's Platinum Series Flash Memory Cards Provide Consumers with High-Speed Performance and Superior Reliability
Complete Platinum Series of Cards Now Speed-Rated at 40X, Including Memory Stick PRO and Secure Digital (SD) Formats
Lexar Media, Inc., a world leader in advanced digital media technologies, today announced that the company's full line of Platinum Series flash memory cards are speed-rated at 40X, equivalent to a minimum sustained data read and write speed capability of 6MB per second, and provide consumers with superior performance. Available in recently updated, contemporary packaging designed to drive consumer interest at retail sales locations worldwide, Lexar's Platinum Series now includes Memory Stick PRO and Secure Digital (SD) flash media formats as well as CompactFlash.
"Our Platinum Series is perfect for many new digital cameras that capture video in addition to traditional still images," said Dave Klenske, director of product marketing, Lexar. "The Lexar Platinum cards can keep up with a camera's video record mode and the benefit to the consumer is that he or she can keep capturing content. We're in lock-step with the consumer market by widening the family to include speed-rated Memory Stick PRO and SD, and both popular formats nicely complement our existing CompactFlash cards."
Lexar's Platinum Series products are now available in redesigned product packaging, including new flash memory card boxes and card labels. The new packaging has an appealing, highly visual look and feel that is consistent with Lexar's new corporate identity, and will stand out in retail environments. In addition to clearly communicating the media card format, the new packaging offers a highly visible solution for identifying varying memory card capacities.
Lexar's Platinum Series includes a wide variety of flash memory card formats, including CompactFlash, Secure Digital (SD) and Memory Stick. All flash memory cards are available in capacities of 256 MB, 512MB and 1GB.
Lexar's Platinum Series products include a limited lifetime warranty.
Lexar defines "X" within its speed-rating system as equivalent to a minimum write speed capability of 150 kilobytes per second.
It comes with 20 megabytes of internal memory, Wi-Fi ( IEEE 802.11b/g - the feature of the season it seems) and the new PictMotion function which allows slide shows to be made out of favorite pictures, music and movie files.
The Nikon Coolpix S6 measures 100.5 x 60 x 21 mm and weights 140 grams.
Expect to see it store mid March for a price of �349.99.
Compare prices on the Nikon Coolpix S6 and get the latest price on the Nikon Coolpix S6 at Amazon
Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 offer a 1/2.5-inch CCD and 6.0 effective megapixel resolution to produce images that stay sharp even when significantly enlarged. They also feature a high-quality 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens with a range of 35-105mm (35mm equivalent) that gives the photographer the flexibility to zoom out for beautiful landscapes, zoom in for tightly-composed portraits, and enjoy macro photography from as close as 4cm.
Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 have been specially designed to be visually appealing as well as easy to use. The eye-catching wave-surface designs are more than just about great styling - their thin, compact dimensions and form make the COOLPIX S5 and S6 really comfortable to hold.
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 feature a new rotary multi-selector that allows fast circular scrolling for speedy image browsing at up to 10 frames per second, a range of buttons that further simplify operation and an on-screen icon with a cursor that tracks circular scrolling, making it easy to select desired features. Furthermore, users can select functions by name or icon according to their personal preference, and all menus and icons have been made easier on the eye with a new colour scheme and optimised icon dimensions.
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 also boast a new one-touch portrait button, conveniently located at the top of the camera body, making it much simpler to take better quality pictures by offering easy access to Nikon�s unique Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting functions. With Face-priority AF*, the camera can automatically detect people�s faces in the frame, no matter where they are located, to produce sharply focused portraits.
In-Camera Red-Eye Fix detects the unfortunate red-eye effect that can sometimes happen in flash photography, automatically compensating for it in-camera to produce more pleasing results. D-Lighting (available in playback mode) enables users to improve images that are underexposed or taken with too much back light � creating a copy of the image with light and detail added where necessary while leaving the well-exposed parts exactly the way they were.
The COOLPIX S6 delivers the additional advantage of Wi-Fi capability. Offering IEEE 802.11b/g support, it allows users to send images wirelessly to a computer as soon as they are taken or to transfer in one go all images stored in memory to a computer. The COOLPIX S6 also supports cable-free printing**, enabling images to be sent directly to PictBridge-compatible printers without the need to use a computer .
A selection of 15 Scene modes � 4 with scene assist � allows COOLPIX S5 and S6 users to achieve satisfying results, aided by clear focus and optimal exposure in diverse situations. All the user has to do is select the most appropriate scene mode and compose the shot, leaving the camera to automatically select the best settings.
Three movie modes with sound are also available for capturing action at up to 30 frames per second. Both cameras also feature �Time-lapse� movie shooting capability that allows dramatic results to be created out of slow-moving action..
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 help speed up the user�s search for recorded images thanks to a calendar function that automatically sorts images according to the date they were taken. For further versatility, the COOLPIX S5 and S6 come complete with the COOL-STATION MV-14 and MV-15 respectively, to allow batteries to be recharged while they are still in the camera. They also offer USB connectivity and can even be hooked up for TV display.
Finally the COOLPIX S5 and S6 come bundled with Nikon�s complimentary PictureProject software and an easy-to-use wireless camera setup utility which employs a simple wizard to configure the camera for wireless operation. The beauty of PictureProject is that it makes editing pictures, organising shots and sharing images remarkably simple, while a range of available plug-ins lets users extend capabilities as they like.
* Face recognition capability may be limited in some shooting conditions.
** Requires optionally available Wireless Printer Adapter PD-10.
Sales release schedule: This camera is scheduled for release in February 2006.
Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.
Nikon COOLPIX S5/S6 Feature Highlights
Pictmotion with high-quality music
Nikon�s new Pictmotion is much more than a simple slideshow function. Available on both the COOLPIX S5 and COOLPIX S6, it allows you to select your favorite images and movie files, then pick a style and add a music file of your choice from among 5 pre-installed ones, or load your own choice of music* to suit the images. The COOLPIX S5 and S6 then automatically analyse each element to produce an entertaining show with pace and transitions determined by music and style for in-camera viewing anywhere on the generous LCD which has an impressive 170� viewing angle that makes it easy for everyone to see. Furthermore, to heighten enjoyment of audio elements, both cameras also feature a large speaker that delivers heightened sound pressure and a sampling frequency which is increased from 8 to 22kHz * Via PictureProject for Windows only.
Eye-catching wave-surface design
Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 have been created with a unique wave-surface design that is both esthetically appealing and very comfortable in the hand. They are also available in an attractive range of colours (availability may vary by country or region), with each exterior combining a range of attractive textures comprising a high-grade glossy main aluminum body with elements of protective acrylic, resilient stainless steel and silicone paneling.
Large LCDs
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 feature large 2.5-inch and 3.0-inch 230,000-dot TFT LCDs respectively. Such generous size does away with the need for a viewfinder and makes for easier composition. Both LCDs also offer an impressive 170� viewing angle that makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the playback of still images, movies and entertaining Pictmotion shows anywhere, at any time.
Rotary multi selector and improved GUI
Operation has been made smoother, simpler and faster. A new rotary multi selector incorporated into the camera back enables high-speed image browsing with circular scrolling action at up to 10 frames per second, while a range of buttons built into the rotary multi selector make for more intuitive operation. There�s also an on-screen icon with a cursor that tracks rotary multi selector scrolling to make function selection even simpler still. The COOLPIX S5 and S6 also feature various screens and menus created with a colour scheme that�s easier on the eye, functions can be selected by the user�s choice of name or icon, and all icons have been optimised and made clearer for easy viewing.
Built-in Wi-Fi
The COOLPIX S6 features the additional advantage of built-in Wi-Fi capability to add further enjoyment and flexibility to digital photography. Providing IEEE 802.11b/g support, it enables individual images to be wirelessly transferred to computer as soon as they�re recorded, allows all stored images to be sent to a computer simultaneously and also supports cable-free direct printing* with PictBridge-compatible printers.
* Requires optionally available Wireless Printer Adapter PD-10.
One-touch portrait functions
A standalone One-touch portrait button is conveniently located on the top of the COOLPIX S5 and S6, giving direct access to three innovative Nikon features for in-camera improvement. Face-priority AF automatically finds and then focuses on people�s faces no matter where they are in the frame for pleasingly sharp portraits time after time. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix can automatically detect the annoying red-eye effect that sometimes occurs in flash photography, then compensate for it in-camera to give natural-looking portraits. And D-Lighting can improve underexposed images or shots taken with too much back light by creating a copy with light and detail added wherever necessary and well-exposed areas kept exactly as they are.
Nikon COOLPIX S5/S6 Other Features
Highly compact dimensions of (W x H x D) S5: 93 x 59 x 20mm (3.7 x 2.3 x 0.8 in.); S6: 100.5 x 60 x 21mm (3.9 x 2.4 x 0.8 in.)
Carry-anywhere light weight (without battery and memory card): S5: Approx. 135g (4.8 oz.), S6: Approx. 140g (4.9 oz.)
S5: 21MB (approx.), S6: 20MB (approx.) of internal memory, SD Card compatibility
BSS (Best Shot Selector) identifies and saves the sharpest shot automatically from ten sequential shots
Exposure BSS automatically selects and saves the shot most closely matching user-selected criteria from five sequential shots
USB connectivity supports easy transfer of data to computers and other peripherals
Swift startup of approx. 0.8 seconds; Continuous shooting at up to 2.2fps
Date Counter visually records countdown of days to an occasion or number of days since an important event
Help Button provides easy-to-understand explanations for functions on main menu
Blur Warning informs user after shooting if an image is blurred
Menu available in a choice of 20 languages
Noise Reduction produces better results during low-light conditions
Time zone function enables the camera clock to be set to local time, anywhere in the world
4x digital zoom extends compositional freedom
Rechargeable EN-EL8 Li-ion Battery (supplied) can shoot approx. 210 shots (S5)/ 200 shots (S6) on a single charge
Field Jacket FJ-CP1 water-resistant case (optional) lets users keep the COOLPIX dry to underwater depths of 3 meters
Dock Insert PV-10/PV-11 (supplied) enable direct printing to compatible ImageLink printers
Choice of White Balance Auto with TTL control, 6-mode manual (Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Flash and White Bal. Preset)
Voice recording available for duration of up to 5 hours or until memory capacity is reached
Hardware Zone has posted a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 where they write - 'In all, we loved the seamless wireless capability found in the S6. It delivers convenience by freeing users from having unsightly cables while providing users with another alternative to offload and share pictures. Quality wise, the S6 was able to capture still with good reproduction and image noise were mostly minimal. Night landscape shots were brilliantly captured as well with commendable color separation and low noise even at ISO 200. Slight edge softening was noticeable though.'
Steves Digicams has posted a comprehensive review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 digital camera where they write - 'Despite its small size and very large 3-inch LCD, the S6's controls are well-placed, being easy to use while not subject to accidental activation. The S6's Multi Selector was effective during playback and while navigating the menu system, able to be both rotated and used as a traditional 4-way controller. The tiny top-mounted zoom control was less effective, being too small to operate with any degree of precision. Having no optical viewfinder, the S6 includes a high quality LCD. The LCD was a very effective viewfinder indoors, intensifying the live image in dim lighting to aid in shot composition. It was less usable outdoors, lacking an anti-reflective surface that would minimize reflections and glare. It's large size allowed Nikon to provide a 25-image thumbnail review mode, useful when you need to scroll through a lot of images to find the one of interest.'DP Interface reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'This camera is a great one for point-and-shoot group snaps but not at night or for sports. I would recommend the Nikon Coolpix S6 for the above use but I think the Sony T30 is a better deal. Well, in case you need built-in WiFi or like its design or whatever your reason to get the S6, but you're stuck between the Nikon Coolpix S5 and S6 - I think the Nikon Coolpix S6 is a better deal: for an additional $40, you're getting a larger LCD, WiFi and slightly better image quality at high ISOs.'
CNET reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'The 6-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S6 is an overly stylish little snapshooter with nice design points, useful features, solid performance, and attractive photos. Its nifty click wheel is a great way to browse settings and pictures, but the rest of its controls are irritating and the Wi-Fi capabilities underwhelming. If you want a stylish camera, you should go with the Nikon Coolpix S5, and if you want a Wi-Fi-enabled model, you should probably wait until consumer Wi-Fi cameras develop more broadly applicable features. If you're desperate for a sleek, pretty camera you don't have to plug in to sync, the NikonCoolpix S6 could be a good choice, but the Canon PowerShot SD430 might be a better one.'
Lets Go Digital Reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 where they write - 'The Nikon Coolpix S6 is a stylish digital camera that offers innovative image editing solutions and a new way of wireless communication. The tests to which we subjected the camera in practice helped form our final verdict. The results can be read in the following Nikon Coolpix S6 digital camera review.... I found working with the Nikon S6 digital camera an exceptionally pleasant experience. The camera truly lives up to its word; ease, excellent image quality and superb innovation packaged in a stylish design. Although the Coolpix S6 camera does leave Nikon room for improvement on a few minor points, such as adding optical image stabilisation, and extending the optical zoom range, this is something for a future generation of Coolpix S-series cameras. The Nikon Coolpix S6 is a camera for those who appreciate ease and value design, whilst keeping a keen eye on innovation. Recommended!'
DCRP reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'The Coolpix S6 won't win any awards for its photo quality. While photos were well-exposed, I found colors to be oversaturated at times and just plain wrong at others (see the greenish cast in some of the sample images). Vignetting (dark corners) and blurry edges were also a problem. Despite having a fancy two-stage redeye reduction, this annoyance still popped up in our flash test. I was also disappointed with the results of our night test shot, which was soft and noisy.... Overall I was a bit disappointed with the Coolpix S6. Sure, it looks cool, and some of the features are really handy. But the bottom line is that photo quality is not as good as other ultra-compacts, and it has more flaws to boot. I'd probably skip the S6 and look at one of the cameras listed below instead.'
DIgiCam Review posts their review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 Wireless Digital Camera where they write - 'The Nikon Coolpix S6 is a very stylish, slim 6 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and a huge 3" screen on the back. The digital camera is one of few to include Wi-Fi support for wireless transfer of photos. The camera has a lot of features built in that aim to produce a better image, such as Face-priority focus, D-lighting, Red-eye reduction, Blur-warning, etc. However all of this is useless if the lens isn't capable of acquiring a sharp clean image. In this case, the Nikon Coolpix S6 is noticably let down by the lens, as it produces vignetting, distortion, soft corners, and soft edges, so no matter how much post-processing goes on, the image quality will always be a weak point of this camera. Add to that, the very high red-eye in indoor photos, that isn't removed by the built in red-eye reduction, and the image quality problems start mounting up. Overall image quality is very hit and miss, one photo will come out looking great, (particularly macro photos), whereas another photo will come out looking awful (the worst photos were left out of the gallery). If image quality was up there with the rest of the cameras features and abilities then this would be recommended, however, as it stands with image quality so hit and miss, it's very difficult to recommend this camera.'
Digital Camera Info reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix S6, with its sexy all-metal body and big screen, offers some very nice features but still has the “small camera syndrome.�? Symptoms include poor handling from overall tiny size, automatic modes, blurry pictures, a weak flash, and a body sexier than its true functionality. Indeed, the Nikon S6 has perhaps the smallest zoom control ever included on a digital camera and is sure to break thousands of fingernails. The camera is equipped with automatic modes that work well in bright lighting, but lacks the sensitivity needed to capture decent pictures in lower light: users will end up with plenty of blurry pictures if their subjects are moving. The S6’s tiny flash is powerful in the short range, but can’t reach beyond about 8.5 ft. As with many other small cameras, many pictures from the S6 had red eyes and a harsh flash – despite Nikon’s portraiture technology.'
Photography Blog has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "As a camera that is good to look at, the Nikon Coolpix S6 fits the bill, but does it take good photos? Thankfully yes - on the whole pictures from this camera are well-exposed, relatively noise-free up to ISO 200, with little purple-fringing. The only flies in the ointment are blurred corners at the 35mm wide-angle focal length and poor night shots. Obviously, as the S6 is strictly a point and shoot camera, it offers very little in the way of creative controls, but it's perfectly suited to it's target audience, and even produces good photos too! If you're looking for a stylish, intuitive compact camera with the option of wireless connectivity, then make sure to take a look at the Nikon Coolpix S6."
Photoxels has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 Wi-Fi and writes, "Image quality at ISO 100 is very good and, to obtain the best results from this camera (including better low-light capability), I therefore recommend setting ISO 100 as your default. ... Overall, the Nikon Coolpix S6 delivers good to very good image quality in "sunny outdoors" situations but is a bit challenged in low-light situations. It does have many practical features, such as BSS, D-Lighting (see User's Experience) and Manual AF areas that help you get the most in those challenging situations."
PCMag has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "When it comes to the meat and potatoes of the camera—picture quality—I was a little disappointed. In my still-life test shots, I saw some noise in the flash shot. Color accuracy and saturation were quite good, and images showed decent contrast and only a little fringing. Still, the images taken by the PowerShot SD430 were sharper and more dynamic, although the S6's flash shot had about the same coverage and evenness. The S6's resolution wasn't impressive either. In my tests, it had just 1,400 average lines of resolution, not good for a 6MP camera."
Good Gear Guide has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "Nikon's Coolpix S6 is a disappointing entry into the compact camera market. While it does offer most of the features you'd expect, its pictures are below par, and struggled in our image quality tests. The biggest problem was with clarity; the CoolPix S6's pictures just weren't sharp enough. ... Our final test is for image noise, and while the CoolPix S6 did slightly better here it was still left languishing. With a score of .87% in Imatest's noise test, it exhibited some slightly visible, but not particularly problematic noise. ... Image quality aside, the CoolPix S6 is a fairly solid camera. ... Overall, the CoolPix S6 is lightweight, attractive and definitely one of the better designed compacts we've recently reviewed."
CNET has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "The Nikon Coolpix S6 offers generally excellent image quality for snapshots, though critical viewers may notice vignetting and other minor flaws. Color accuracy and range are excellent, and the Coolpix S6's exposures are generally on target. Its palette is rather neutral and faithful to the scene, not oversaturated as with many other point-and-shoot cameras. The Vivid color setting gives images a little more warmth and pop but doesn't go too far. Flesh tones are warm but not ruddy, even with flash at close range, and the camera's automatic white balance is fairly accurate under most conditions."
Compare prices on the Nikon Coolpix S6 and get the latest price on the Nikon Coolpix S6 at Amazon
Pretec Press Release
PRETEC Electronics Corp., the leading company offering flash memory cards since 1993 is announcing today their 133X (20MB/sec.) secure digital (SD) card with capacities of 256MB, 512MB and 1GB at PMA (booth # 2025 & 2027) in Orlando.
Endowed with more than 2 times the access speed of current high speed SD 60X (9MB/sec), PRETEC SD 133X is now running at close to 20MB/sec allowing for a demanding new generation higher-resolution and higher-speed digital cameras and growing multimedia appliances. Implementing high speed flash algorithm controller design and “Dual Channel” technology, PRETEC SD 133X offers a 16-bit bus architecture for data transfer at an accelerated rate.
Employing the same technology, PRETEC has created and demonstrated last month at CES (Las Vegas) iDisk Tiny 166X; the smallest and highest speed flash memory card in the world, using USB interface. PRETEC SD 133X is constructed with precision mechanics offering the most reliable and secure features which provide superior durability, water resistance, anti-vibration, high pressure resistance, and provides the ultimate level of data protection to prevent user’s crucial data from being damaged or lost during device power failure.
With available speed close to 20MB/sec., PRETEC 1GB 133X SD Card can transfer 1GB of 5MP high resolution digital images in under one minute. Stored in a postage stamp-sized SD card, PRETEC SD 133X is the optimal choice for digital cameras and other handheld devices. PRETEC SD 133X’s mass production is scheduled at Q2/2005.
4 Megapixel Concord 4042 with Easy Power-Up
Priced at $99, the compact Concord 4042 4 Megapixel digital camera features a unique “quick click” sliding power-up button strategically located on the front of the camera that enables users to quickly turn the camera on, so that they never miss a great photo opportunity. The Concord 4042 combines a 4x digital zoom and a 1.5“ color LCD with pre-set exposure and shutter settings for mistake-free photo lighting. The camera’s voice recording feature enables users to record voice memos on still images while shooting so they always remember who is in every shot. The Concord 4042 also takes MPEG movies with sound up to 15 frames per second that can easily be emailed to family and friends, comes with 16MB of internal memory, and is expected to be available in March 2005.
For more information, see the web site: http://www.concord-camera.com.
3 Megapixel Concord 3047 Super Slim Body
Priced at only $79.99, the 3 Megapixel Concord 3047 offers consumers unprecedented style and value—with features only available in much more expensive cameras, including an all-metal housing, white balance and exposure settings, 4x digital zoom, AVI movie, burst mode, 1.5“ color TFT LCD, and built-in 16MB of memory. With dimensions of .94” (width) x 2.3“ (height) x 3.5” (length), the super slim Concord 3047 is ideal for on-the-go consumers. For added convenience, the Concord 3047 functions as a PC camera as well. The Concord 3047 is similar to the Concord 3043 (previously announced at Photokina 2004), but with a larger 1.8“ LCD and more color choices and is available in Metallic Silver.
For more information, see the web site: http://www.concord-camera.com.
Panasonic Press Release: Today from the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) 2005 Annual Convention & Tradeshow, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company announced an alliance with Shutterfly, a leading online photo service provider, to provide an online photo center for consumers. Beginning in March, Panasonic customers can take full advantage of Shutterfly’s award-winning products and services at the Panasonic Photo Center, created and managed by Shutterfly. This reflects a broadening of the alliance between the companies, who both provide consumers with high-quality digital photography solutions.
“As digital camera sales rapidly outpace those of traditional film cameras, consumer demand for convenient and easy-to-use digital photography services will grow exponentially,” said Monica Helmer, Marketing Manager for the Optical Group, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Panasonic chose to work with Shutterfly because as a recognized leader in online photo services, the company shares our desire to provide the best overall digital photography experience for consumers.”
Panasonic Photo Center, Powered By Shutterfly
The following Shutterfly photo products and services will soon be available to Panasonic customers via the Panasonic Photo Center:
“Shutterfly is excited to help Panasonic Photo Center customers preserve their memories and stay connected with family and friends,” said Andy Young, Chief Marketing Officer of Shutterfly. “With our shared commitment to quality products and customer satisfaction, we look forward to a mutually-beneficial and productive alliance with Panasonic.”
The Kodak Easyshare C340 is a digital camera with a 5 megapixel sensor and 3x Optical Zoom lens. It is has an array of shooting modes to allow automatic image taking in a variety of conditions. The C340 also allows on camera cropping and VGA quality video capture. It will retail for $249.95 and be available in stores in May.
Buy the Kodak EasyShare C340
Digital Camera Info has a first impression review of the Kodak EasyShare C340 and writes - 'At first glance, the Kodak EasyShare C340 has a unique design with darker silver tones, textured panels, and elements of both plastic and metal on its compact body. While this is more interesting to the eyes than the traditional light silver finish, some of the flashy features are not completely logical. For example, the right-hand grip is a smooth lump of plastic, while the other side is textured and metal. It would have made more sense to include some texture or increased gripping surface on the right-hand grip, however, the rest of the C340’s design makes sense. The buttons are labeled clearly, logically placed, and easy to use. Menus are easy to navigate with large text and icons. There are very limited manual controls on this point-and-shoot model; instead, Kodak has included 12 scene modes and a reliable auto mode. A movie mode is also included, however, it shoots at an incredibly slow frame rate and looks a bit choppy — more like a rapid slide show. The Kodak EasyShare C340 is best suited for daytime shooting, as evidenced by its limited white balance options and inadequate flash.'
CNET Reviews has posted a review of the Kodak EasyShare C340 and writes - 'One of the most competitive, take-no-prisoners areas in photography today is centered around the $200 price point for digital cameras. It's a sweet spot for cameras with stripped-down feature sets. This is Kodak's home turf--think of the Brownie camera circa 1900--so you would expect a better-than-average entry-level camera from this company. The Kodak EasyShare C340 is a solid contender but not a trailblazer. The 5-megapixel sensor and the 3X zoom are decent features for the price, and the mostly plastic body feels sturdy and durable. Its biggest assets are easy-to-navigate menus and relatively high-quality photos. The biggest drawback is its undersized, 1.6-inch LCD screen. That might have been acceptable two years ago, but not now, when 1.8-inch screens are common on less expensive cameras. The C340 also falls short on manual controls, though given Kodak's target audience for this model, that's to be expected. Mix it all together, and if you don't mind the small screen and have no aspirations beyond point-and-shoot photos, the Kodak EasyShare C340 could be a safe choice for a budding shutterbug or a confirmed technophobe.'
Kodak News Release: New KODAK EASYSHARE C-Series Digital Cameras Provide a Simple Way to Take, Share and Print Pictures
KODAK EASYSHARE C300 and C340 Digital Cameras Combine New Compact Design, On-Camera Cropping and High Image Quality, Resulting in Great Pictures
Eastman Kodak Company today introduced two new, compact digital cameras to its KODAK EASYSHARE line: the EASYSHARE C340 zoom digital camera, with 5 megapixel (MP) resolution, 3X optical zoom and on-camera cropping; and the EASYSHARE C300 digital camera, with 3 MP resolution and a fixed-focus lens. Both models provide people with an affordable entry point to the KODAK EASYSHARE consumer digital photography system for simplified shooting, sharing, organizing and printing of high-quality digital pictures.
“EASYSHARE C-series digital cameras blend simplicity, quality and value, making it possible for everyone to take and share both everyday and once-in-a-lifetime moments,” said Mary Hadley, director of digital capture marketing, Eastman Kodak Company. “Pictures taken with the new C-Series models can quickly and easily be shared on the camera’s LCD screen, e-mailed, or printed for lasting memories for years to come.”
KODAK EASYSHARE C340 zoom digital camera
The EASYSHARE C340 camera (US$249.95 MSRP) is the ideal solution for people looking for a compact, all-purpose digital camera that delivers outstanding picture quality and Kodak’s hallmark simplicity of operation. The C340 features fully automatic point-and-shoot convenience — including 16 scene and color modes — plus 5-megapixel resolution, new on-camera cropping and KODAK Color Science resulting in vibrant prints up to 20 x 30 inches.
Taking advantage of the KODAK RETINAR aspheric, all-glass 3X optical zoom lens, plus selectable exposure metering, ISO equivalents, and focus zones, camera owners can capture breathtaking pictures under multiple lighting conditions. For capturing more than just still pictures, the C340 also features video (VGA) and audio capture and playback capability. Automatic picture rotation makes pictures taken vertically appear right side up on the camera, television or computer screen when used with EASYSHARE software. In addition, the camera is always ready to snap a picture by simply depressing the shutter button, regardless of which capture mode or menu is active.
The KODAK EASYSHARE C340 zoom digital camera will be available worldwide beginning in May 2005.
Making the EASYSHARE System Connection
C-Series camera owners can quickly print KODAK 4 x 6-inch pictures with just one touch in as little as 90 seconds, using the new KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Series 3. This version is the first to support the new IMAGELINK print system, working with new EASYSHARE cameras and other manufacturers’ compatible cameras.
The Printer Dock Series 3 also transfers pictures to a connected computer, and recharges and reconditions the cameras’ batteries. Pictures made from EASYSHARE printer docks are vibrant, borderless, waterproof, and will last a lifetime.
Only the EASYSHARE line of printer docks makes printing truly one-touch simple, and does not require people to connect a cable between camera and printer. Their convenience, print speed, ease-of-use and phenomenal picture quality have resulted in overwhelming demand from picture takers worldwide, with the line having achieved the number one market position in the United States and the United Kingdom, according to The NPD Group and GfK. Since Q2 2003, Kodak has shipped more than two million EASYSHARE printer docks worldwide.
Kodak has also announced the EASYSHARE Camera Dock Series 3 (May 2005 availability; US$79 MSRP), which provides one-touch picture transfer to a connected computer, video out for television viewing, and battery recharging and reconditioning.
The C-Series cameras include new KODAK EASYSHARE software version 4.0 for WINDOWS and MACINTOSH systems, providing effortless digital picture organization, editing, sharing and printing. The exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak to help users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from inkjet printers. Version 4.0 — also available for free download from www.kodak.com — now includes the ability to edit pictures in third-party applications and optional Video CD and DVD burning.
In the J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study SM evaluating performance, connectivity, cost and appearance, KODAK EASYSHARE cameras in the $200-399 and $400-599 price ranges ranked highest in customer satisfaction. Digital cameras in these segments comprise more than 60 percent of the U.S. market, according to data from The NPD Group.
The award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system — consisting of cameras, printer docks and camera docks, software, inkjet and thermal photo papers, and accessories — makes taking, organizing, sharing, and printing high quality digital pictures effortless. Further information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare.
The Kodak Easyshare C300 is a 3.0 megapixel entry level digital camera with a fixed focal length lens and functions that allow simple sharing of pictures via email, online, at photolabs and via printers. The C300 will retail from $99.95 ($US) and shoudl be available in May 2005.
US Readers get a price on the “Kodak EasyShare C300 3MP Digital Camera”
Kodak News Release: New KODAK EASYSHARE C-Series Digital Cameras Provide a Simple Way to Take, Share and Print Pictures
KODAK EASYSHARE C300 and C340 Digital Cameras Combine New Compact Design, On-Camera Cropping and High Image Quality, Resulting in Great Pictures
Eastman Kodak Company today introduced two new, compact digital cameras to its KODAK EASYSHARE line: the EASYSHARE C340 zoom digital camera, with 5 megapixel (MP) resolution, 3X optical zoom and on-camera cropping; and the EASYSHARE C300 digital camera, with 3 MP resolution and a fixed-focus lens. Both models provide people with an affordable entry point to the KODAK EASYSHARE consumer digital photography system for simplified shooting, sharing, organizing and printing of high-quality digital pictures.
“EASYSHARE C-series digital cameras blend simplicity, quality and value, making it possible for everyone to take and share both everyday and once-in-a-lifetime moments,” said Mary Hadley, director of digital capture marketing, Eastman Kodak Company. “Pictures taken with the new C-Series models can quickly and easily be shared on the camera’s LCD screen, e-mailed, or printed for lasting memories for years to come.”
KODAK EASYSHARE C300 digital camera
The EASYSHARE C300 digital camera (US$99.95 MSRP) is a simple and affordable model for consumers interested in exploring digital photography. This point-and-shoot camera provides high quality images and access to the award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system at an economical price.
Its 3.0-megapixel resolution and fixed focus lens provide crisp, vibrant prints up to 11 x 14 inches. Additional features make it simple for people to take pictures and video clips in a variety of settings; preview and review their pictures; and share pictures right on the camera, by e-mail, or as prints made at home, online, or at a retail location.
The KODAK EASYSHARE C300 digital camera will be available worldwide beginning in May 2005.
Making the EASYSHARE System Connection
C-Series camera owners can quickly print KODAK 4 x 6-inch pictures with just one touch in as little as 90 seconds, using the new KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Series 3. This version is the first to support the new IMAGELINK print system, working with new EASYSHARE cameras and other manufacturers’ compatible cameras.
The Printer Dock Series 3 also transfers pictures to a connected computer, and recharges and reconditions the cameras’ batteries. Pictures made from EASYSHARE printer docks are vibrant, borderless, waterproof, and will last a lifetime.
Only the EASYSHARE line of printer docks makes printing truly one-touch simple, and does not require people to connect a cable between camera and printer. Their convenience, print speed, ease-of-use and phenomenal picture quality have resulted in overwhelming demand from picture takers worldwide, with the line having achieved the number one market position in the United States and the United Kingdom, according to The NPD Group and GfK. Since Q2 2003, Kodak has shipped more than two million EASYSHARE printer docks worldwide.
Kodak has also announced the EASYSHARE Camera Dock Series 3 (May 2005 availability; US$79 MSRP), which provides one-touch picture transfer to a connected computer, video out for television viewing, and battery recharging and reconditioning.
The C-Series cameras include new KODAK EASYSHARE software version 4.0 for WINDOWS and MACINTOSH systems, providing effortless digital picture organization, editing, sharing and printing. The exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak to help users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from inkjet printers. Version 4.0 — also available for free download from www.kodak.com — now includes the ability to edit pictures in third-party applications and optional Video CD and DVD burning.
In the J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study SM evaluating performance, connectivity, cost and appearance, KODAK EASYSHARE cameras in the $200-399 and $400-599 price ranges ranked highest in customer satisfaction. Digital cameras in these segments comprise more than 60 percent of the U.S. market, according to data from The NPD Group.
The award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system — consisting of cameras, printer docks and camera docks, software, inkjet and thermal photo papers, and accessories — makes taking, organizing, sharing, and printing high quality digital pictures effortless. Further information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare.
Press Release - Corel Expands Camera Raw Support with RawShooter essentials 2005 from Pixmantec
Free Software Automates Batch Downloads, Saving Photographers Time and Money While Providing Maximum Control Over Digital Images
Corel Corporation announced that, starting today, it will offer RawShooter essentials 2005 as a free download from its website at www.corel.com/downloads. Developed by Denmark-based Pixmantec, RawShooter essentials 2005 enables photographers to automatically import and convert large batches of camera RAW images, saving them time and money with powerful, easy-to-use tools that previously cost hundreds of dollars. RawShooter essentials 2005 works with leading digital imaging software including Corel's Paint Shop Pro, Paint Shop Pro Studio, Paint Shop Photo Album, and Corel PHOTO-PAINT.
Corel will present the RawShooter essentials 2005 workflow along with its newly expanded portfolio of digital photography and imaging software at PMA in Orlando from February 20- 23, 2005 (Booth # 2463).
The ideal staging area for RAW format users to begin their photo projects, RawShooter essentials 2005 enables photographers of all skill levels to efficiently view, prioritize, and process large batches of camera RAW images. During the RAW conversion process, users may apply image adjustments, including color and exposure corrections, sharpening, and noise suppression. The result is a set of TIFF or JPEG files that can be easily opened in Corel's digital photography software where more advanced image enhancements can then be performed.
In Paint Shop Pro 9, for example, users can easily apply localized color changes, crop, retouch or merge multiple photos into stunning panoramas. With Corel Painter IX, the world's best Natural-Media painting and illustration tool, photographers can reveal new dimensions of their favorite photographs by applying unique artistic effects. Even those new to digital photography can take their converted camera RAW images and use Paint Shop Photo Album 5 to create memorable coffee table books, distinctive album pages, video CDs, slide shows, or web galleries, while easily archiving favorite collections on CD or DVD.
“Corel is committed to creating exceptional experiences for our customers,” said Michael Greenhalgh, Product Line Manager for the Paint Shop family. “In addition to delivering powerful, affordable, and easy to use software, we also provide a wide range of options for users to express their individual creativity, whether they're brand new to digital photography or a seasoned professional. Working with Pixmantec, we are now able to provide users with a workflow solution that allows them to work more efficiently while maximizing their control over the final product.”
“Our goal in designing RawShooter essentials 2005 was to provide users with superior image quality as well as the fastest workflow ever experienced by digital photographers shooting in camera RAW formats,” said Michael Jonsson, CTO and Chief Software Architect of Pixmantec. “Based on the initial feedback we've received from Paint Shop Pro users, we feel confident that we've met this objective.”
Added Kenneth Tang Laerke, CEO of Pixmantec: “We're proud to be associated with Corel given its impressive track record of innovation and its credentials as one of the world's top ten software brands.”
“I have been using RawShooter essentials 2005 exclusively for the past few months to convert my images,” said Andy Rouse, Professional Wildlife Photographer. “Only a day after returning from a recent trip, I took my initial batch of 6500 photographs and easily edited this down to just under 1000 shots. I then converted and enhanced the 182 best images using RawShooter essentials 2005. Once I've finished working with my photos in RawShooter essentials 2005, its easy for me to move them into a software package like Paint Shop Pro to apply additional enhancements. Combining power, ease-of-use, and versatility, these tools allow photographers like me to spend less time at the computer and more time discovering new subjects that inspire us.”
For more information on Corel Corporation or to download a free, full-featured trial version of the company's award-winning software, please visit http://www.corel.com.
For more information on Pixmantec, please visit http://www.pixmantec.com.
Press Release:Lexar Expands Award-Winning Professional Series Flash Memory Cards and Accessories
Line-Up Now Features Speed-Rated SD Card and Memory Stick PRO in Newly Designed Packaging
Lexar Media, Inc. , a world leader in advanced digital media technologies, today announced the expansion of the company’s Professional Series of flash memory cards and accessories by adding Professional Memory Stick PRO , speed rated at 80X, and Professional Secure Digital (SD), speed rated at 60X, to its award-winning professional line of products. In addition, the company also announced that the complete line of Professional Series flash memory cards and accessories is now available in newly designed, eye-catching packaging designed to drive customer attention at retail sales locations.
“We’re expanding our Professional Series of products and improving the product packaging to meet the needs of the rapidly evolving professional photography category,” said Jim Gustke, general manager, marketing, Lexar. “A full-suite of easily identifiable cards and accessories benefits both our retail partners and our photography customers. The expansion of the product line–to include Professional SD and Professional Memory Stick PRO and feature-specific CompactFlash –is the most recent step by Lexar to deliver the highest performing and most reliable media solutions to professional audiences worldwide,” he added.
Lexar’s Professional Series products will be available in redesigned product packaging, including new flash memory card boxes and card labels. The new packaging has an appealing, highly visual look and feel consistent with Lexar’s new corporate identity, and will stand out in retail environments.
“We’ve seen a slight shift in the buying habits of high-end digital imaging customers,” said Chris Chute, senior analyst within IDC’s imaging group. “While CompactFlash still holds a memory card leadership position in the professional-level photography segment, many popular high-end digital cameras now accept SD and Memory Stick PRO. Lexar is maintaining alignment with the market by further strengthening its professional-level product line by offering additional popular memory card formats,” he added.
Lexar’s Professional Series of products include a wide variety of flash memory cards and capacities, including the award-winning 80X speed-rated CompactFlash, Active Memory CompactFlash and LockTight CompactFlash, with capacities including 512MB, 1GB, 2GB and 4GB. In addition, the professional-level line-up includes Lexar’s 8GB CompactFlash, speed-rated at 40X, and Professional Secure Digital, speed-rated at 60X and shipping in capacities of 1GB. Lexar defines “X” within its speed-rating system as equivalent to a minimum write speed capability of 150 kilobytes per second.
Image Rescue software from Lexar and a trial version of Photo Mechanic from Camera Bits, the popular image browsing software currently exclusively distributed at retail by Lexar, will also ship in the newly designed packaging. Currently, Lexar distributes Photo Mechanic version 4.3 of this application.
Professional Memory Stick PRO is the most recent addition to Lexar’s professional line-up. Speed rated at 80X, equivalent to a minimum sustained read and write speed of 12MB per second, the new Professional Memory Stick PRO is designed to meet the needs of both professionals and consumers who require the fastest data read and write speeds available in the Memory Stick PRO format. Featuring an industrial design that differs slightly from earlier versions of this format, including a black plastic housing and opaque plastic underside, the Professional Memory Stick PRO cards will ship later this month in capacities of 512MB and 1GB.
Sony Press Release: Sony today announced a leap forward in the Memory Stick® flash media family with the introduction of the 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo (High Speed) media, the largest capacity available in the Duo format. Sony is also introducing the 1GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, media which is easily recognizable by its bold new black coloring.
The new 1GB and 2GB media are the perfect solution for users who need to easily store and swiftly transfer data-intensive digital content, such as high-resolution digital photos and TV-quality video clips.
“With these new higher capacity media, you can maximize the enjoyment from your digital devices without having to worry about how much memory the content is consuming,” said Mike Kahn, senior product manager for digital imaging accessories at Sony Electronics in the U.S.
Sized Down, Powered Up
At only one-third the size and half the weight of full-size Memory Stick media, Memory Stick PRO Duo flash media offers the same technologies and features of Memory Stick PRO media and high capacities. The 2GB Memory Stick Pro Duo (High Speed) media also is designed to support transfer speeds of up to 80 Mbps which varies with supporting hardware.
The tiny media card is ideal for use in compact digital devices, including cellular phones, wearable portable audio players and pocket-sized digital imaging and gaming devices. For added versatility, all Memory Stick Duo media ship with an adapter that is compatible with devices with a full-size Memory Stick media slot.
Tough and Durable
The high-capacity media features increased durability with a standard operating temperature range of -13°F to +185°F.
According to Kahn, “Whether your Memory Stick PRO Duo is in your backpack on the ski slopes or in the trunk of your car on a hot summer day, you can trust it will perform as expected.”
The Sony Cybershot DSC-S60 is a 4 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens. The only real differentiation between the DSC-S90 and DSC-S60 (also announced today) is that this model has a larger LCD screen 2.5 inches.
The DSC-S60 measures 3.8 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches and weighs in at 202g.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-S90 will retail at $299.95 and should appear in stores this coming March.
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSCS90 4.1 MP Digital CameraDP Review has reviewed the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-S90 and writes - 'Ultimately though, although I found the S90 a much more rewarding camera to use than I ever expected, and I was impressed with the results (given the target market), it simply doesn't tick enough boxes, even though it's a very good all-round performer. It's neither the cheapest, nor is it the most capable camera in its class (and it's certainly not the cutest), and though it does everything it should without any problems it simply doesn't offer anything to make it stand out from the crowd (with the possible exception of that big screen).'
CNET Reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S90 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S90 shows that you can expect a lot these days from an inexpensive camera. Equipping this model with the 4-megapixel sensor and 3X optical zoom that are now typical of entry-level models, Sony heats up the competition by adding a large LCD screen, fast response times, superior low-light performance, and above-average image quality. A few weaknesses make the S90 less suited for advanced users. They include limited manual settings and less than optimal close-up capabilities.'
Megapixel.net reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-S90 and writes - 'Relatively competitively priced, the S90 is easy to get accustomed to. The camera is responsive to its controls, powers up and is ready to shoot in approximately 3 seconds, and has no serious shutter release latency. Moreover, although it offers what is still a rarity, a large 2.5-inch LCD monitor that is sharp enough to make out details, it also has a power-saving optical viewfinder, which can be very useful, and makes it quite user-friendly....
Without changing any of the default settings of the S90, the camera produces high quality images that have rich and vibrant colours. Greens and reds are particularly precise, and nature shots emphasize this strength, reproducing a myriad green hues easily, a testament to the precision of the Auto white balance.'
Lets Go Digital has a review of the Sony Cybershot DSC S90 and writes - 'All in all we may conclude that the Sony Cybershot S90 is an excellent digital camera, well-worth its money. The camera is versatile, but remains a straightforward operable camera through its user-friendly approach and it certainly won't frighten off the beginning photographer. The camera offers outstanding image quality and replaces the traditional 35mm camera without a doubt. The Sony Cybershot S90 is the S-series digital cameras' top model and is highly recommended, certainly with the results we achieved when testing this camera.'
Buy the Sony Cybershot DSCS90 4.1 MP Digital Camera
Adding to the overall value of the line, two of the models include the benefit of large LCDs for simple image inspection and sharing right on the camera. The optional Cyber-shot Station charging cradle offers additional convenience and utility to the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 models.
All three easy-to-use, four-megapixel cameras are packed with features like Sony’s Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry for better battery efficiency, more responsiveness and high quality movie taking. The Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens on the models complements their high resolution for great picture clarity, while 32 MB of internal memory and a Memory Stick® media slot provide plenty of storage capacity.
The new models in the S-series let you take approximately 110 shots while using two “AA” type batteries and around 550 shots while using a NIMH rechargeable battery.
So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting and exposure, the new cameras offer a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the cameras can automatically make the necessary adjustments. All of the models include a 3X optical zoom and 2X digital zoom for better looking, properly framed pictures.
Additionally, various preset scene modes are available for quickly selecting the best setting for the shooting conditions.
“Today’s savvy customers are demanding more from their digital cameras,” said Hiro Takahashi, Sony Electronics’ vice president for digital imaging products. “From the entry level user to those looking to advance up, our new Cyber-shot S (for Stamina) cameras meet those needs by offering intelligent features and great value.”
DSC-S90
The DSC-S90 model step up with an elegant new design, larger LCDs, manual exposure control and the added utility of Cyber-shot Station™ compatibility. This model also offers the option to add tele- or wide- conversion lenses for greater magnification or a wider field of view.
You won’t need reading glasses to set up the perfect shot on these cameras. The S90 display is 2.5-inches. The DSC-S90 camera also comes supplied with rechargeable NiMH batteries and charger.
Cyber-shot Station Accessory
With the optional Cyber-Shot Station dock (CSS-SA), transferring images and recharging the battery of the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 cameras is practically effortless. By placing a camera in the cradle, you can switch between a TV, PC or camera for easy viewing on the display of your choice, in addition to the ability to print to any PictureBridge photo printer.
The Cyber-shot Station dock comes supplied with an AC adapter and NP-NH25 NiMH rechargeable battery and will be available in late April for about $80.
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A portion of the available storage capacity is used for data management functions. Actual available memory is 30MB.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-S60 is a 4 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens. The only real differentiation between the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 (also announced today) is that this model has a smaller LCD screen 2.0 inches.
The DSC-S60 measures 3.8 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches and weighs in at 198g.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-S60 will retail at $249.95 and should appear in stores this coming March.
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSC-S60
DigiCam Review has reviewed the Sony Cybershot DSC-S60 and writes - 'The Sony Cybershot DSC-S60 / S80 is a good all-round 4 megapixel digital camera, with a very good movie mode, and very good battery life. Image quality is good, and the camera offers some manual controls, but unfortunately lacks custom white balance and manual focus. The camera is on the expensive side, especially if you take into consideration the high cost of Sony Memory Sticks. The Sony Cybershot S60 is a good all round camera, and if you don't mind the price, then I would recommend this camera.'
Imaging Resource reviews the Sony CyberShot DSC-S60 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S60 is an easy-to-use but capable offering, with a 4.1-megapixel CCD, 32 megabytes of internal memory, and a nice range of exposure options. The Sony S60 provides slightly more manual exposure control than most compact entry-level models permit, yet is easy to use in full-auto mode, and its seven preprogrammed scene modes help with tricky subjects. The large 2-inch color LCD monitor is excellent for framing and reviewing shots, and the overall design and layout of the Sony S60 is user-friendly and hassle-free. It's biggest strength though, is its very fast shutter response and good shot to shot speed: The DSC-S60 would be a good choice for shots of active children or sports action. While the Sony S60 is very similar to its more expensive cousin the S90, there are several important differences. Most noticeable is its 2-inch LCD vs the 2.5-inch screen on the S90. On a more practical note, the S90 comes equipped with a NiMH battery charger and a pair of high-capacity Sony NiMH batteries, while the S60 comes with just a set of alkaline cells.'
Following is a news release announcing the DSC-S60 and its siblings the S90 and S40, also announced today.
Sony News Release:With a focus on performance, Sony’s Stamina series of Cyber-shot® digital cameras set a new standard for speed, battery life and picture quality in compact cameras.
Adding to the overall value of the line, two of the models include the benefit of large LCDs for simple image inspection and sharing right on the camera. The optional Cyber-shot Station charging cradle offers additional convenience and utility to the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 models.
All three easy-to-use, four-megapixel cameras are packed with features like Sony’s Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry for better battery efficiency, more responsiveness and high quality movie taking. The Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens on the models complements their high resolution for great picture clarity, while 32 MB of internal memory and a Memory Stick® media slot provide plenty of storage capacity.
The new models in the S-series let you take approximately 110 shots while using two “AA” type batteries and around 550 shots while using a NIMH rechargeable battery.
So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting and exposure, the new cameras offer a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the cameras can automatically make the necessary adjustments. All of the models include a 3X optical zoom and 2X digital zoom for better looking, properly framed pictures.
Additionally, various preset scene modes are available for quickly selecting the best setting for the shooting conditions.
“Today’s savvy customers are demanding more from their digital cameras,” said Hiro Takahashi, Sony Electronics’ vice president for digital imaging products. “From the entry level user to those looking to advance up, our new Cyber-shot S (for Stamina) cameras meet those needs by offering intelligent features and great value.”
DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 Models
Incorporating all the smart features of the DSC-S40 camera, the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 models step up with an elegant new design, larger LCDs, manual exposure control and the added utility of Cyber-shot Station™ compatibility. Both of these models also offer the option to add tele- or wide- conversion lenses for greater magnification or a wider field of view.
You won’t need reading glasses to set up the perfect shot on these cameras. The DSC-S60 model has a crowd-pleasing 2-inch LCD, while the S90 display goes a step further at 2.5-inches. The DSC-S90 camera also comes supplied with rechargeable NiMH batteries and charger. Both models will be available in mid-March for about $250 and $300, respectively.
Cyber-shot Station Accessory
With the optional Cyber-Shot Station dock (CSS-SA), transferring images and recharging the battery of the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 cameras is practically effortless. By placing a camera in the cradle, you can switch between a TV, PC or camera for easy viewing on the display of your choice, in addition to the ability to print to any PictureBridge photo printer.
The Cyber-shot Station dock comes supplied with an AC adapter and NP-NH25 NiMH rechargeable battery and will be available in late April for about $80.
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A portion of the available storage capacity is used for data management functions. Actual available memory is 30MB.
Sony have just announced the Sony Cybershot DSC-S40 compact digital camera - a 4.1 megapixel (CCD Sensor) camera with a 3x Optical Zoom Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens.
The Cybershot DSC-S40 features a 1.5 inch LCD monitor, PictBridge compatability, 32 megabytes of internal memory, measures 3.9 x 2.0 x 1.3inches and weighs 135g.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-S40 will appear in shops in March and should retail for $199 (US).
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSC-S40
CNET reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S40 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S40 is the entry-level model in Sony's refresh of its S line of point-and-shoot cameras. More elongated and boxlike than the more expensive DSC-S60 and DSC-S90, the DSC-S40 meets its price point by reducing the LCD screen to 1.5 inches. Otherwise, it has an impressive roster of features and capabilities, including a 4.1-megapixel sensor, a Carl Zeiss 3X zoom lens, two burst modes, 640x480 video capture at 30fps, strong battery life, and fast response times.'
Following is a news release from Sony announcing the S40 and its big brothers, the S60 and S90.
Sony News Release:With a focus on performance, Sony’s Stamina series of Cyber-shot® digital cameras set a new standard for speed, battery life and picture quality in compact cameras.
Adding to the overall value of the line, two of the models include the benefit of large LCDs for simple image inspection and sharing right on the camera. The optional Cyber-shot Station charging cradle offers additional convenience and utility to the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 models.
All three easy-to-use, four-megapixel cameras are packed with features like Sony’s Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry for better battery efficiency, more responsiveness and high quality movie taking. The Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens on the models complements their high resolution for great picture clarity, while 32 MB of internal memory and a Memory Stick® media slot provide plenty of storage capacity.
The new models in the S-series let you take approximately 110 shots while using two “AA” type batteries and around 550 shots while using a NIMH rechargeable battery.
So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting and exposure, the new cameras offer a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the cameras can automatically make the necessary adjustments. All of the models include a 3X optical zoom and 2X digital zoom for better looking, properly framed pictures.
Additionally, various preset scene modes are available for quickly selecting the best setting for the shooting conditions.
“Today’s savvy customers are demanding more from their digital cameras,” said Hiro Takahashi, Sony Electronics’ vice president for digital imaging products. “From the entry level user to those looking to advance up, our new Cyber-shot S (for Stamina) cameras meet those needs by offering intelligent features and great value.”
Cyber-shot Station Accessory
With the optional Cyber-Shot Station dock (CSS-SA), transferring images and recharging the battery of the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 cameras is practically effortless. By placing a camera in the cradle, you can switch between a TV, PC or camera for easy viewing on the display of your choice, in addition to the ability to print to any PictureBridge photo printer.
The Cyber-shot Station dock comes supplied with an AC adapter and NP-NH25 NiMH rechargeable battery and will be available in late April for about $80.
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A portion of the available storage capacity is used for data management functions. Actual available memory is 30MB.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-H1 is a SLR style (not a true SLR view finder) digital camera with 5.1 megapixels (effective) and a long 12x Optical Zoom.
The Cybershot DSC-H1 features a large 2.5 inch LCD monitor, image stabilization, a macro focusing range of 0.8inches, video shooting mode (MPEG VX with audio - 30 fps) and PictBridge functionality.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-H1 will retail for $499.95 and should reach stores in June of 2005.
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSC-H1
Digital Camera Info reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 does have some incredibly attractive features, notably its 12x optical zoom lens with super image stabilization and large 2.5-inch LCD screen. The 36-432mm (equivalent) variable focal range lens is also compatible with conversion lenses and filters, providing aficionados with some room for creativity. Sony has included some features to help foster that creativity with manual, priority, and automatic modes, including 7 scene settings. The 32 MB of internal memory and accurate electronic viewfinder are also nice touches on this SLR-shaped digital camera. While Sony does pack some great point-and-shoot features, other performance-oriented necessities are completely brushed over. The H1 is apparently designed for enthusiasts, though its ISO range is capped at 400. '
DP Review has reviewed the 5.1 megapixel Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 digital camera. They highly recommend it and write - 'Considering this is Sony's first foray into the increasingly crowded - and competitive - 5MP 'super zoom', whereas other manufacturers are already into their second or third generation models, the DSC-H1 is a very impressive, very mature product indeed. Handling is excellent, it's very fast and responsive and the results - even shooting in full auto mode with default settings - excellent. There are few cameras I can wholeheartedly recommend to both novice 'snappers' and experienced photographers, but the H1 is that rarest of beasts; a 'compact' camera with handling and control close to a DSLR, yet one that - even in inexperienced hands - can be left in 'idiot-proof' mode and trusted to produce the goods time and time again. And, like the S2 IS, it's capable of high resolution movies. Above all, the H1 is fun and easy to use, which means you will find yourself taking a lot more pictures, which has to be a good thing.'
Imaging resource review the Sony DSC H1, and write - "The Sony DSC-H1 marks a new category for Sony (at least in recent history), offering optical image stabilization with a very long zoom lens. The Sony H1 provides more manual exposure control than many other long zoom digital cameras, yet is easy to use in full-auto mode, and its seven preprogrammed scene modes help with tricky subjects. The large 2.5-inch color LCD monitor is excellent for framing and reviewing shots, and the overall design and layout of the H1 is user-friendly."
CNET reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-H1 and gives it a rating of 'very good'. They write - 'With its 12X-zoom Cyber Shot DSC-H1, Sony joins the megazoom competition. Although slightly larger and heavier than its competitors, the H1 holds its own thanks to a broad feature set, speedy performance, and a generally well-thought-out design. We have a few quibbles and wish that the photos were sharper, but overall, the H1 may please enthusiasts hankering for a camera with an extended focal range.'
Design Technica reviews the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H1 and writes - 'I really liked using the DSC-H1 and enjoyed the resulting images. The optical image stabilization did a nice job eliminating the blur from slower shutter speeds and extremely zoomed telephoto images, where any bit of handshake rears its ugly head in your prints. Having the ability to zoom such a long focal length is a real plus. Just try it out in the store; you'll immediately see why we were so pleased and why it's a great travel companion. Battery life is very good, as is the response time. When using Memory Stick Pro cards, you can record decent movies that are close to VHS levels, but it's certainly no Mini DV camcorder. It's a nice feature, especially if something unusual takes place that begs for a video instead of a still. The LCD screen is big, but the quality really is a drop-off compared to the screens found on Sony's T series of cameras. In case the screen wipes out in bright sunshine or a really dim scene, the EVF is there to save you. However, Sony gets a half point deduction for including the insulting Picture Package software and continuing to use Memory Stick media against the on-rushing Secure Digital (SD) tide (I guess it wouldn't be Sony if they weren't so stubborn).'
PC Magazine reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 and writes - 'Our daylight test shots looked quite good. There was very little noise and the overall exposure was good, but we saw some fringing in the color chart. In the flash image, the flash was too strong and resulted in a loss of detail and blown-out highlights. Bear in mind that our test flash shots are taken in a controlled setting, with the camera in auto mode—the flash is adjustable, though we suspect that most users won't get around to adjusting it. The camera also sends out a pre-flash signal that sets the exposure properly. In all, though we found the flash to be overpowering in our studio, you can get different results in real-world shooting situations....
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 is a decent buy, especially considering the superzoom's price. But shutter lag and problems with the flash shots hold it back.'
Cameras.co.uk has a review of the Sony DSC H1 and writes - 'The Sony DSC H1 is a five megapixel digital camera with a 12x optical zoom lens. This is Sony's first digital camera with an extended zoom lens. The DSC H1 has a wide range of features including fully manual exposure and is therefore likely to appeal to those who are serious about photography rather than someone who is looking for a simple point and shoot model. A lens of this length will be especially useful for wildlife and sports photography. '
Digital Camera Info reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 Digital Camera and writes - 'Point-and-shoot users looking to graduate from their pocket-friendly camera will find the H1 to be a sizable jump in performance capabilities and functionality. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 will take nice 5 megapixel images with rich colors and minimal noise and provide image stabilization technology. It also has a showy 2.5-inch LCD screen, although its 115,000 pixel count is sub-par. The H1 is designed to look like an SLR, but handle like a point-and-shoot. It succeeds, as it is incredibly easy to use (except two annoying little facts: no Delete All function and a menu-buried Format function). The movie mode is fun to play with because of its excellent audio and good playback layout. The 12x optical zoom lens is a very nice feature, especially when coupled with the effective image stabilization system. The camera is comfortable to hold with its rubber grip. The H1 is more compact than SLRs, but beefier than the slim-line models. In the end, the camera will offer advanced point-and-shoot functionality in a larger package. The camera is no supplement for an SLR, but for those looking just below, the H1 is a formidable alternative.'
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 and writes - 'It's not quite the perfect ultrazoom digicam though. Noise is the main problem with the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1. Squeezing 5 megapixels onto such a small 1/2.5 inch CCD sensor inevitably results in noisier images at lower ISO speeds. Here, noise is fairly obvious at ISO 200, which isn't a particularly fast speed, and at the fastest speed of ISO 400 the image starts to take on a blurry look. The image stabilisation system thankfully makes up for this to some extent, as you can keep shooting at a slow ISO speed in lower light conditions than usual. It's the equivalent of gaining 1-2 exposure stops, or extending the ISO range from 64 up to 200.... If you mainly take photos outside, or indoors with flash, and if you keep the image stabilisation turned on, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 is a great ultra-zoom digital camera and definitely worth considering.'
Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H1 where they write - 'The H1 is not short of creative features. It offers the full range of manual exposure modes, with manual shutter speeds of 30 seconds to 1/1000th of a second, and apertures from F2.8 to F8.0 available. These settings don’t compete with an SLR, but they’re quite respectable for a semi-pro camera.... Sony’s first SLR-style super-zoom camera is a real winner, and a bargain at the price. Excellent handling, a good list of features and superior picture quality, combined with a 12x image-stabilised lens make this a good all-rounder and a superb enthusiasts camera.'
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSC-H1
A five megapixel, Super HAD™ CCD imager, 12X optical zoom lens and a large 2.5-inch LCD are just a few of the features on this model that are sure to please even the choosiest photo buff.
“We’ve responded to requests from enthusiasts for this type of camera,” said Hiro Takahashi, vice president for Sony Electronics’ digital imaging products. With the DSC-H1 model, we have fully leveraged Sony’s digital imaging expertise to offer a high-zoom camera worthy of the Cyber-shot brand.“
With a focal length range of 36 - 432 millimeters (a 35mm equivalence) the DSC-H1 camera lets you frame distant objects with ease. Making the most of this telephoto reach, Sony’s Super Steady Shot® optical image stabilization feature counteracts camera-shake to ensure sharp images. This feature also benefits low-light photography by allowing the use of longer shutter speeds with reduced risk of image blur from camera-shake.
Sony’s Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry is incorporated in the model for better battery efficiency, more responsiveness and high quality movie taking, while seven preset scene modes allow quick selection of the best setting for specific shooting conditions.
The camera also includes a five-area, multi-point auto focus to help you concentrate on the subject without mistakenly focusing on the background, as well as aperture/shutter priority and manual exposure modes for creative control of the image.
For added convenience, the model has 32 MB of internal memory (30 MB of usable memory) and a Memory Stick® flash media slot. PictBridge™ compatibility enables prints in a flash when the camera is connected to an enabled printer.
”We’ve been able to put all these powerful capabilities in a camera that is far more compact than most would expect,“ noted Takahashi. ”The combination of form and function in this model will broaden the market bringing advanced features to wider audience.“
The DSC-H1 Cyber-shot camera will be available this June for about $500
Optional Lenses
For truly professional shots, this new camera is also compatible with optional telephoto or wide conversion lenses. The VCL-DH0758 model .7x wide angle conversion lens provides a wider field of view with virtually no color aberration or distortion. The VCL-DH1758 model 1.7x telephoto conversion lens offers greater magnification and a crystal-clear shot. Both lenses will be available by mid-June for about $150 each. '
Read more at Sony DSC-H1 Cyber-shot Digital Camera - PhotographyBLOG
Sandisk Press Release: Memory Stick Format Expands Beyond Digital Cameras to Other Electronic Devices, Spurs Demand for More Memory and Faster Performance
With growing sales of high-resolution digital cameras, video camcorders and other electronic devices that require more memory and speed, SanDisk(R) Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) today announced a 2-gigabyte (GB)* Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM) flash storage card and a new Memory Stick PRO Duo family in the SanDisk Ultra(R) II line. The announcements were made during the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) show at the Orange County Convention Center, where SanDisk is exhibiting in Booth 2408.
The latest Memory Stick offerings, which are expected to ship this spring, give SanDisk the world’s first 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. That capacity will be available in both the existing Standard line and the new SanDisk Ultra II Memory Stick PRO Duo line, which provides faster read and write speeds for devices that can utilize them.
“Memory Stick PRO Duo continues to be a key format among flash memory cards, and given the wide variety of devices now using Memory Stick PRO Duo, SanDisk should find a receptive market for these faster and higher-capacity cards,” said Stephen Baker, analyst for NPD Techworld, a research company that follows the electronics industry. “Memory Stick-enabled devices are likely to grow substantially in the near term, offering SanDisk growing sales opportunities.”
SanDisk Ultra II Memory Stick PRO Duo
The new SanDisk Ultra II Memory Stick PRO Duo family is being offered in three capacities: 512 megabytes (MB), 1GB and 2GB. Suggested retail prices are $119.99, $209.99 and $479.99. These cards have minimum write and read speeds of 10MB per second. The Ultra II line is designed for digital still cameras that have resolutions of 5 megapixels and higher, including “prosumer” cameras that average 6 to 8 megapixels. Users can photograph moving objects more easily, although image quality depends on the make, model and speed capabilities of each camera.
“Sony continues to introduce cameras, such as the Cyber-shot(R) DSC-F828 and the new DSC-V3, that can leverage the fast Ultra II Memory Stick PRO Duo cards,” said Tanya Chuang, a SanDisk retail product marketing manager. “We expect to see more digital still cameras with higher resolutions that can benefit from performance flash memory cards. As one of the innovators in Memory Stick PRO Duo design, SanDisk strongly supports this popular format.”
Memory Stick PRO Duo Standard
Designed for a wide range of electronic devices, many of them recently introduced by Sony and other companies, the SanDisk Memory Stick PRO Duo Standard line is ideal for memory-intensive use, and is offered in capacities of 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB and, now, 2GB. Products that have Memory Stick PRO Duo slots include portable game and multimedia systems (such as the new Sony PSP), mobile phones, digital camcorders, MP3 players, desktop PCs and laptops and printers. Suggested retail price of the new Standard 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo is $359.99, which includes a Memory Stick adapter that makes it compatible with all Memory Stick PRO devices.
As the proliferation of the Memory Stick PRO Duo format continues, the cards are used not only to save digital still photos but also to capture MPEG4 video clips, video games, music, audio books and even computer-generated word and graphics files. “SanDisk offers the widest range of Memory Stick PRO Duo cards, giving consumers the option to choose the most appropriate capacities for their applications,” said Susan Park, SanDisk retail product marketing manager for the Memory Stick line. “Moreover, the introduction of the 2GB PRO Duo card reflects SanDisk’s commitment to Memory Stick PRO Duo and to our objective of staying on the leading edge of technology.”
SanDisk also manufactures Memory Stick PRO in Standard, Ultra II, Extreme and Extreme III versions, with capacities of as high as 4GB. As the world’s third most popular flash memory card format, Memory Stick is now licensed by 595 companies as of mid-January, according to memorystick.com, a trade organization.
Sandisk Press Release: SanDisk(R) Corporation (Nasdaq:SNDK) today introduced a new 200-picture (128 megabyte)(a) CompactFlash(R) card in its Shoot & Store(TM) line of affordable digital memory cards. The announcement was made at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) trade show in the Orange County Convention Center, where SanDisk is exhibiting in Booth 2408.
SanDisk also introduced a Shoot & Store version of the SanDisk Photo Album (SPA), which allows consumers to create and store slide shows and view them on most television sets. With a suggested price of $49.99, the SPA has slots for all major flash memory card formats, as well as a portable USB flash drive, and can also play MP3 music files through a home audio system or TV. At the trade show, SanDisk officials also said they will start offering a new plastic jewel storage case that can hold up to four CompactFlash cards or eight SD(TM) or xD-Picture Cards(TM).
SanDisk Shoot & Store cards are sold in more than 20,000 major drug stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and other retail outlets in the United States, Australia and various other countries. Prices range from $9.99 for a 32-megabyte (MB), 50-picture card to $19.99 for the new 200-picture, 128MB CompactFlash card. Cards also are available in 64MB, 100-picture versions at a suggested retail price of $14.99. Shoot & Store cards are sold in CompactFlash, SD, xD and Memory Stick(TM) formats.
The new jewel storage cases, which are identical in size to ones used for keeping CD-ROM disks and DVDs, will initially be sold with two 32MB, 50-picture cards, at a suggested retail price of $19.99. The cases contain a soft plastic sleeve insert with slots for the cards, as well as a sticker indexing system to label each card. The storage cases later will be available, without cards, at a retail price of under $5.
“With these new products in the Shoot & Store line, SanDisk is responding to consumer demands for both higher card capacities and a way to safely and conveniently store their new and filled cards,” said Kent Perry, SanDisk retail product marketing manager for Shoot & Store.
The new Shoot & Store products are scheduled to be available in stores in March.
SanDisk Shoot & Store cards enable owners of digital cameras to shoot pictures, delete the images they don’t want and store their “keepers” on the cards themselves, without needing to download them to a personal computer. They can take the cards directly to professional photo processors and drop them off, like a traditional roll of film. When they pick up their prints, they get their cards back as well. They can also use the cards at self-service printing kiosks.
Consumers can still use SanDisk Shoot & Store cards just like any other digital flash memory card. They can download or delete images and re-use the cards, or they can save their pictures on the cards and store them for future use.
SanDisk is the original inventor of flash storage cards and is the world’s largest supplier of flash data storage card products, using its patented, high-density flash memory and controller technology. SanDisk is headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA and has operations worldwide, with more than half its sales outside the U.S.
Sandisk Press Release: New Twin Functionality Card is Added to SanDisk’s High-Performance Ultra II Product Line
SanDisk(R) Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) today introduced the SanDisk Ultra(TM) II SD(TM) PLUS, an innovative SD flash memory card with built-in USB connectivity. The new card, which works seamlessly in any SD card slot, also can be used as a high-speed USB 2.0 flash drive. The announcement was made at the annual Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Show at the Orange County Convention Center where SanDisk is demonstrating products in Booth 2408.
The new dual-functionality device has been added to the SanDisk Ultra II product line, a family of high-performance flash memory cards with write speeds of 9 megabytes (MB) per second and read speeds of 10MB/sec.(1)
Tanya Chuang, SanDisk retail product marketing manager, said, “The new Ultra II SD PLUS, which can be used in a wide variety of SD-based products—including digital cameras, PDAs, camcorders and camera phones—means greater convenience and cost savings for consumers. Now, to transfer data, images, audio or video between computers, digital cameras and other electronic devices, you don’t need a card reader, cables or card adapters. Just flip the card to engage the USB connector and simply plug the Ultra II SD PLUS into any USB port. And the card also features an LED that blinks when data transfer is taking place to indicate that the card is being used as a USB flash drive.”
She added, “Our advanced mechanical design eliminates the need for a removable cap, which can be lost, and gives consumers a dual functionality card that is fully SD compliant. We believe that the Ultra II SD PLUS will be a much more popular product than any similar device on the market because it is an SD card and SD has become the dominant standard for flash memory cards.”
The Ultra II SD PLUS, which SanDisk expects will start shipping to stores in April, initially will be available in two capacities—512MB and one gigabyte (GB)(2). The 512MB card will have a suggested retail price of $109.99 and the 1GB version will carry a suggested price of $149.99.
The Ultra II SD PLUS is targeted primarily at the professional digital camera and prosumer market where 4 mega-pixel or higher resolution digital cameras are requiring significantly faster flash memory film cards. The Ultra II product line, which also includes CompactFlash(R) and Memory Stick PRO(TM) card formats, allows photographers to quickly capture high-resolution images and take advantage of the advanced features available today in high mega-pixel digital cameras.
The European Imaging & Sound Association (EISA), the largest editorial multimedia organization in Europe, which represents 50 magazines from 20 countries, named the SanDisk Ultra II line “European Memory Card of the Year 2004-2005” last year. Also, the SanDisk Ultra II CF line of cards last year won the Best Imaging Storage Media Award from the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA), which consists of 30 top photography publications from across Europe.
SanDisk is the original inventor of flash storage cards and is the world’s largest supplier of flash data storage card products using its patented, high-density flash memory and controller technology. SanDisk is headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA and has operations worldwide, with more than half its sales outside the U.S.
SanDisk’s product images can be downloaded from http://www.sandisk.com/corporate/media.asp.
SanDisk’s web site/home page address: http://www.sandisk.com.
SanDisk, the SanDisk logo, CompactFlash and SanDisk Ultra are trademarks of SanDisk Corporation, registered in the U.S. and other countries. SanDisk is an authorized licensee of the SD trademark. Memory Stick PRO is a trademark of Sony Corporation. Other brand names mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and are trademarks of their respective holder(s).
(1) Results based on testing with the popular HDBENCH benchmark software. Actual results in digital cameras will vary by camera model.
(2) 1 megabyte = 1 million bytes; 1 gigabyte = 1 billion bytes.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-W7 is a big brother to the 5MP DSC-W5 (released in a Europe in January). The DSC-W7 has a 7.2 megapixel CCD sensor and 3x Optical Zoom lens. This digital camera has a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens, 32 megabytes of internal memory, a 2.5 inch LCD screen (115,000 pixels) and PictBridge compatibility.
The Sony DSC-W5 measures 3.6 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches, weighs 253gwill retail for $449 and should appear in stores in March 2005.
Buy the "Sony - DSC-W7 Cyber-shot Digital Camera"
CNET Reviews has a review of the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-W7 and writes - 'Sony's 7.2-megapixel Cyber Shot DSC-W7 has the same great 2.5-inch LCD, metal-alloy body, and 3X Carl Zeiss zoom lens as those of its predecessor, last year's DSC-W1, but the W7 improves on it with 2 more megapixels and plenty of extra speed. This compact digital camera shoots and processes its bigger images in less time, making it easier to get that fleeting shot of baby's first step or your boss taking a spill after too much eggnog at the holiday office party. Keen-eyed photographers might find the photos a bit too flawed, and enthusiasts will miss the manual controls, but it's a fairly quick and responsive camera with very solid automatic settings and respectable image quality, making it perfect for mainstream users looking to point, shoot, and make large prints with minimum fuss.'
Trusted Reviews has a review of the Sony Cybershot DSC-W7 and writes - 'Sony's Cyber-shot DSC-W7 represents a good middle ground in the new 7 megapixel snapshot market. Image quality could be a little better, but overall performance, build quality and handling are everything we’ve come to expect from Sony. At a price point of around £239 it represents excellent value for money, and will not disappoint.'
Steves Digicams reviews the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W7 and writes - 'The overall image quality when using its 7M/Fine mode is excellent. The majority of our samples were well saturated and properly exposed. Users can control the saturation, contrast and sharpness, which allows you to “dial in” just the right look for your images. I found that the automatic white balance did its job well, even when shooting in very mixed lighting conditions. Our outdoor images were sharp and showed good color balance, with very little noise in both high and low contrast areas. You can see for yourself by taking a look at our Samples page. The flash has an above average range of about 14.5 feet, which works great in all types of indoor situations. You can't illuminate large open rooms like gymnasiums, but portraits of individuals and small groups are no problem. If you need some help illuminating your subjects, the optional HVL-FSL1B Slave Flash unit (about $100), is designed specifically for use with Sony Cyber-Shot models and includes a handy mounting bracket. I did notice an average amount of redeye in our indoor flash portraits, even when using the Redeye Reduction flash mode. We felt this is due to the poor position of the flash (directly above the lens.)'
Pocket-link reviews the Sony DSC-W7 digital camera and writes - 'Unlike the Sony’s DSC-T7 (reviewed here) this camera has gone for substance over style. The model isn’t pretty however it will give you 7.2 megapixels in your pocket. However as with the FujiFilm F10 and the Canon’s Ixus 700 you have to ask yourself whether or not you’ll really need such a high megapixel count.
If you’re in it just from the “point and shoot” point of view then 7.2 megapixels is probably overshooting the mark. Likewise semi professionals looking for a field camera are more likely to opt for the Canon G6 or something with greater emphasis on bolting on further lens or additional flashes.'
Design Technica reviews the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W7 and writes - 'Casual photographers looking for a high-quality point-and-shoot camera should give this 2005 digicam a long look. It feels substantial, is easy to operate and takes very good images. As noted, focusing can be a bit squirrelly in certain lighting conditions, but it's just a slight annoyance, not something that would make me feel negative about it.'
Digicam Review has a review of the Sony Cybershot DSC-W7 and writes - 'The 7 megapixel Sony Cybershot W7 is a good digital camera. The easy to use camera is capable of good results, however you may have to work with the image(s) to get the best out of them - for example to produce sharper images, or alter exposure etc. The camera gives you a lot of control through manual settings, but is equally suited to beginners. The macro mode is good. The camera is very good value for money at around £235, and whilst the camera is good, due to the slight image quality issues I had with the W7 (soft, exposure, white balance, blown highlights) I would be much happier recommending the Fuji FinePix F10 to my friends and family over this camera. '
DP Review has reviewed the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W7 and writes - 'So then, the W7 is a camera that offers excellent performance, solid handling and very good image quality in an easy to use, well-built package. It may not be as pocketable as cameras like the P200, and it's certainly no head-turner, but it does offer excellent value for money (being up to $100 less expensive than some competitors), and has a certain charm (if you find aluminum bricks charming).'
PC Mag reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 and writes - 'Sony's Cyber-shot DSC-W7 digital camera is a speedy little point-and-shoot with a high megapixel count and a rugged metal exterior. It's a bit heavy, and the boxy design—with hardly a curve on the body, other than a small hand grip—makes it a little tough to hold. Perhaps Sony used up all its curves on the DVD7 camcorder, which resembles a Frisbee with a lens and LCD. In any case, the W7 doesn't easily fit into a shirt or pants pocket. But there are positive points to this camera, namely the picture quality. And at $375, it's a good buy for this type of point-and-shoot camera with a high-megapixel sensor.'
Get the latest price on the Sony Cybershot DSC-W7
Following is a news release from Sony announcing the DSC-W7 and the DSC-W5.
The new models combine the some of the most desirable characteristics of a fully-featured camera in a compact metal-alloy body wrapped around an impressive, 2.5-inch LCD.
Powered by Sony’s Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry, the cameras deliver extraordinary performance, including lightning-fast camera response times and extended battery life with approximately 380 shots between power charges.
Both models come with a full 32 megabytes of internal memory (30 megabytes available). As a result, these cameras are bringing new meaning to the term “worry-free” digital photography. Even if you forget to bring a memory card, or your Memory Stick® media card runs out of capacity, you can still take great pictures thanks to the cameras’ built-in memory.
“Our aim is to make digital photography as exhilarating as possible, yet simple and straight-forward,” said Hiro Takahashi, vice president for Sony Electronics’ digital imaging products. “The new W series embodies this philosophy, offering the most sought-after features in a sophisticated yet efficient package.”
More Bang for the Buck
Available in March for about $450, the DSC-W7 is one of the most competitive 7-megapixel cameras on the market. The camera sports a Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens that fully extends in about a second, as well as large 2.5-inch color LCD screen for optimal picture taking and viewing.
The 5-megapixel DSC-W5 will be available in March for about $350. This camera also features a Carl Zeiss® 3X optical zoom lens and a generous 2.5-inch LCD screen.
Both the Cyber-shot® W5 and W7 cameras shoot full-resolution images in just over one-second intervals. Moreover, they offer MPEG-VX Standard/Fine mode, which enables recording of MPEG video with up to 640x480 pixel resolution at 30 frames per second.
With the optional Cyber-shot Marine Pack (MPK-WA), the Cyber-shot W models become underwater cameras with water resistance to a depth of up to 132 feet. For those who want greater flexibility, the W5 and W7 models can both be used with optional telephoto and wide-angle conversion lenses.
Prints at Your Fingertips
Printing just one or several images is a snap with the new W series because these models are PictBridge™ compatible. Connect the cameras to a PictBridge enabled printer, such as Sony’s new PictureStation™ DPP-FP50, and great prints appear with just a push of the button.
The DSC W-Series has a host of other appealing features, including:
Five-area Multi-Point Auto Focus: The camera evaluates five separate areas of the frame and intelligently focuses on the subject, displaying the selected focus point.
Manual Exposure Controls: Flexible exposure control in which shutter speeds from 30-1 1/1000 seconds and apertures of f2.8 - 5.2 can be selected.
Preset Scene Modes: With seven scene modes, parameters can be matched to the shooting conditions, including: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Snow, Beach and Candle.
Cyber-shot W Series Accessories
New optional accessories will maximize your capturing experience and include:
Marine Pack Model MPK-WA: Water-proof housing made of high-quality polycarbonate plastic and glass enables basic camera functions at up to a 132 foot depth. The marine pack includes a hand strap and is available next month for about $200.
Optional Lenses and Adapter: A high-grade telephoto lens (VCL-DH2630), wide angle lens (VCL-DH0730) and lens adapter (VAD-WA) will also be available next month for about $130, $100 and $30 respectively.
# # #
A portion of the available storage capacity is used for data management functions. Actual available memory is 30MB.
Buy the “Sony Cybershot DSCW7 7MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom”
DigiCamera Review has reviewed the HP Photosmart M417 and writes - 'The HP Photosmart M417 offers very good value for money as one of the cheapest 5 megapixel digital cameras currently available - it has an easy to use menu system and built in help which you may find useful. However, I found the camera to be frustratingly slow at times, and rarely wanted to take the camera with me in case I missed the shot. The camera is also very poor at focusing indoors or in low light, this meant that I was pretty much unable to use the camera indoors.'
Digital Camera Review has reviewed the HP Photosmart M417 and writes - 'The HP Photosmart M417 is a user-friendly, entry level digital camera. It's lightweight and easy to use, but image quality is average and the feature set doesn't really set it apart from others in its class. For just a bit more money, consider the Nikon Coolpix 5900. Or, if you want a bit more zoom, consider the Kodak EasyShare Z700.'
Take exceptional photos that make beautiful 4 x 6-inch prints and enlargements up to poster-size. Get crisp detail at 5 MP resolution and 21x total zoom—HP Precision 3x optical lens, 7x digital.
This easy-to-use camera features HP Real Life technologies to help you take better photos. Automatically bring out details normally lost in shadows using HP Adaptive Lighting and remove red-eye in-camera. Snap photos easily using an intuitive button layout. A unique, sculpted grip keeps the camera steady for one-handed shots.
View shots on a bright, 1.8-inch image display. E-mail photos to friends—without large attachments—using HP Instant Share. Edit, share, and organize photos with included HP Image Zone software. Easily transfer and print photos, recharge in-camera batteries, and more using an optional dock.
Store photos with 16 MB internal memory and an optional SD/MMC card. 2 Shoot video clips or a series of photos in Burst mode. Get the perfect shot at the exact moment in Fast Shot mode.
Buy the “HP Photosmart M417 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom”
Pentax Press Release
PENTAX Imaging Company has announced a compact, lightweight, interchangeable telephoto zoom lens for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. The smc PENTAX DA 50mm-200mm F4-5.6 ED is the fifth DA-Series lens offered by the photo manufacturer.
Designed for exclusive use with PENTAX KAF-mount digital SLR cameras including the *ist D and the *ist DS digital SLRs, the new lens offers 4X zoom coverage in the telephoto range. Further, the lens features an angle of view from 31.5 degrees to 8.1 degrees (equivalent in focal length from 76.5mm to 306mm in the 35mm format).
As with all DA-Series lenses, this DA 50mm-200mm features a responsive “Quick-Shift Focus System” that allows photographers to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring. Coupled with a simple, functional design and the elimination of an aperture ring, this new mechanism considerably improves operability. The lens also incorporates an Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass lens element and two aspherical lens elements for true-to-life image reproduction and overall size reduction. The image circle in DA-series lenses is designed to perfectly match the 23.5mm x 15.7mm size of the CCD used in PENTAX digital SLRs to optimize camera performance. The new design also contributes to a drastic reduction in size, weight and production cost, compared to 35mm-format counterparts with similar specifications.
Additional features* of the lens include:
• 11-element/10-group optical construction,
• incorporating ED (Extra-low Dispersion) optical elements
• 52mm filter size
• Dimensions (diameter x length): 2.6½ x 3.1½ (66.5mm x 78.5mm)
• Weight: 9.2 oz (260g)
*Design, specifications and product name are subject to change without notice. Shipping dates and price will be announced in the future.
PENTAX Imaging Company will unveil the lens this month at the 2005 Photo Manufacturers Association trade show from February 20 to 23 in Orlando, Florida.'
The Kodak Easyshare Z7590 digital camera is a 5 megapixel camera with a 10x Optical Zoom SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON lens. It will retail at $449.95 (US) and be in stores in May.
Digital Camera Info review the Kodak Easyshare Z7590 and write - 'The Kodak EasyShare Z7590 is very similar to the DX7590, but has a 26-pin connector to the USB cradle, which makes it both ImageLink and PictBridge compatible. Besides the extra flexibility, the Z7590 adds a live histogram feature in shooting and can recall the histograms in playback mode. With 5 megapixels on the 1/2.5-inch CCD and a Kodak Color Science Chip to boot, the Kodak Z7590 has plenty of resolution to produce clear and colorful prints. The black SLR-shaped digital camera has polished silver highlights around the Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon 10x optical zoom lens. With plenty of automatic scene modes, the semi-automatic priority modes, and the manual mode, this model offers versatility for the beginning shooter to blossom into an experienced photographer.'
CNET Reviews has a review of the Kodak EasyShare Z7590 digital camera which it rates at 7.2 out of 10 (very good). They write - 'The Kodak EasyShare Z7590 looks great on paper: it has a 10X optical zoom, a 5-megapixel resolution, an SLR-like electronic viewfinder, and manual exposure controls. Unfortunately, its photos tell a different story. A variety of artifacts, including purple fringing around highlights and noise at higher ISO settings, drop this camera's desirability a few notches. Still, niceties such as an action-ready burst mode and a standard PC (Prontor-Compur, not personal computer) connection for an external flash will appeal to photographers who love to play with a full set of features.'
Buy the Kodak Easyshare Z7590 5MP Digital Camera with 10x Optical Zoom
Kodak Press Release: New KODAK EASYSHARE Z7590 Digital Camera Delivers Greater Picture Range via Extended Zoom
Z-Series Designed to Bring Everyday Picture Takers Closer to their Subjects
Eastman Kodak Company today announced an addition to the new line of KODAK EASYSHARE Z-Series digital cameras, which now features four models with extended optical zoom lenses up to 10X. The KODAK EASYSHARE Z-Series cameras help everyday picture takers get closer, better, more creative shots.
The new KODAK EASYSHARE Z7590 (10X optical zoom, 5 megapixel resolution, US$449.95 MSRP) digital camera combines fast-performing, point-and-shoot flexibility with the photographic control achieved through extended optical zoom lenses. They join the previously announced EASYSHARE Z740 and Z700 cameras, which are now shipping.
“People are realizing that the secret to a great digital picture isn’t just about the number of megapixels in the camera,” said Mary Hadley, director of worldwide digital capture marketing at Kodak. “EASYSHARE Z-Series cameras bring extended zoom capabilities such as more flattering portraits and capturing detail from afar — until now the domain of higher-end digital cameras — to more people.”
KODAK EASYSHARE Z7590 zoom digital camera
The KODAK EASYSHARE Z7590 camera is ideal for people who want to further experiment with photography using a fast performing digital camera that includes both automatic and manual settings. Specifically, the Z7590 model offers a professional quality SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON 10X optical zoom lens (38 – 380 mm equivalent) for outstanding dynamic range, fine detail and delicate highlights, and it is the first Z-Series camera to feature flash sync connection. Further, the camera is equipped with a live histogram, which enables users to see the exposure of their subject before taking the shot. Additionally, the exclusive KODAK Color Science chip results in portraits with edge-to-edge sharpness and brightness, rich color, and highly accurate exposure.
The EASYSHARE Z7590 camera will be available worldwide beginning in May 2005.
Making the EASYSHARE System Connection
Z-Series camera owners can quickly print KODAK 4 x 6-inch pictures with just one touch in as little as 90 seconds, using the new KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Series 3. This version is the first to support the new IMAGELINK print system, working with new EASYSHARE cameras and other manufacturers’ compatible cameras.
The Printer Dock Series 3 also transfers pictures to a connected computer, and recharges and reconditions the cameras’ batteries. Pictures made from EASYSHARE printer docks are vibrant, borderless, waterproof, and will last a lifetime.
Only the EASYSHARE line of printer docks makes printing truly one-touch simple, and does not require people to connect a cable between camera and printer. Their convenience, print speed, ease-of-use and phenomenal picture quality have resulted in overwhelming demand from picture takers worldwide, with the line having achieved the number one market position in the United States and the United Kingdom, according to The NPD Group and GfK. Since Q2 2003, Kodak has shipped more than two million EASYSHARE printer docks worldwide.
Kodak has also announced the EASYSHARE Camera Dock Series 3 (May 2005 availability; US$79 MSRP), which provides one-touch picture transfer to a connected computer, video out for television viewing, and battery recharging and reconditioning.
The Z-Series cameras include new KODAK EASYSHARE software version 4.0 for WINDOWS and MACINTOSH systems, providing effortless digital picture organization, editing, sharing and printing. The exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak to help users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from inkjet printers. Version 4.0 — also available for free download from http://www.kodak.com — now includes the ability to edit pictures in third-party applications and optional Video CD and DVD burning.
In the J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study SM evaluating performance, connectivity, cost and appearance, KODAK EASYSHARE cameras in the $200-399 and $400-599 price ranges ranked highest in customer satisfaction. Digital cameras in these segments comprise more than 60 percent of the U.S. market, according to data from The NPD Group.
The award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system — consisting of cameras, printer docks and camera docks, software, inkjet and thermal photo papers, and accessories — makes taking, organizing, sharing, and printing high quality digital pictures effortless. Further information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at http://www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare.
The Kodak Easyshare Z730 digital camera features a quality SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON 4x optical zoom lens2.2inch LCD screen and 5 megapixel sensor. It will retail at $349.95 (US) and should be available in May.
Buy the “Kodak EasyShare Z730 5MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom”
Kodak Press Release:
New KODAK EASYSHARE Z730 Digital Cameras Deliver Greater Picture Range via Extended Zoom
Z-Series Designed to Bring Everyday Picture Takers Closer to their Subjects
Eastman Kodak Company today announced an addition to the new line of KODAK EASYSHARE Z-Series digital cameras, which now features four models with extended optical zoom lenses up to 10X. The KODAK EASYSHARE Z-Series cameras help everyday picture takers get closer, better, more creative shots.
The new KODAK EASYSHARE Z730 (4X optical zoom, 5 megapixel resolution, US$349.95 MSRP) digital camera combines fast-performing, point-and-shoot flexibility with the photographic control achieved through extended optical zoom lenses. It join the previously announced EASYSHARE Z740 and Z700 cameras, which are now shipping.
“People are realizing that the secret to a great digital picture isn’t just about the number of megapixels in the camera,” said Mary Hadley, director of worldwide digital capture marketing at Kodak. “EASYSHARE Z-Series cameras bring extended zoom capabilities such as more flattering portraits and capturing detail from afar — until now the domain of higher-end digital cameras — to more people.”
KODAK EASYSHARE Z730 zoom digital camera
Designed for “zoom seeking” picture takers, the fast-performing KODAK EASYSHARE Z730 digital camera incorporates advanced features that offer outstanding performance without sacrificing ease of use. The professional quality SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON 4X optical zoom lens (33-132 mm equivalent) allows greater photography experimentation and more range than with a comparable 3X optical zoom. In addition, a 2.2-inch, high-resolution LCD screen can be used to preview and instantly review shots. Continuous auto-focus delivers rapid click-to-capture (0.2 second), precisely freezing action at a desired moment, while the lithium-ion battery delivers extended shoot times and rapid recharging.
The EASYSHARE Z730 camera will be available worldwide beginning in May 2005.
Making the EASYSHARE System Connection
Z-Series camera owners can quickly print KODAK 4 x 6-inch pictures with just one touch in as little as 90 seconds, using the new KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Series 3. This version is the first to support the new IMAGELINK print system, working with new EASYSHARE cameras and other manufacturers’ compatible cameras.
The Printer Dock Series 3 also transfers pictures to a connected computer, and recharges and reconditions the cameras’ batteries. Pictures made from EASYSHARE printer docks are vibrant, borderless, waterproof, and will last a lifetime.
Only the EASYSHARE line of printer docks makes printing truly one-touch simple, and does not require people to connect a cable between camera and printer. Their convenience, print speed, ease-of-use and phenomenal picture quality have resulted in overwhelming demand from picture takers worldwide, with the line having achieved the number one market position in the United States and the United Kingdom, according to The NPD Group and GfK. Since Q2 2003, Kodak has shipped more than two million EASYSHARE printer docks worldwide.
Kodak has also announced the EASYSHARE Camera Dock Series 3 (May 2005 availability; US$79 MSRP), which provides one-touch picture transfer to a connected computer, video out for television viewing, and battery recharging and reconditioning.
The Z-Series cameras include new KODAK EASYSHARE software version 4.0 for WINDOWS and MACINTOSH systems, providing effortless digital picture organization, editing, sharing and printing. The exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak to help users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from inkjet printers. Version 4.0 — also available for free download from http://www.kodak.com — now includes the ability to edit pictures in third-party applications and optional Video CD and DVD burning.
In the J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study SM evaluating performance, connectivity, cost and appearance, KODAK EASYSHARE cameras in the $200-399 and $400-599 price ranges ranked highest in customer satisfaction. Digital cameras in these segments comprise more than 60 percent of the U.S. market, according to data from The NPD Group.
The award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system — consisting of cameras, printer docks and camera docks, software, inkjet and thermal photo papers, and accessories — makes taking, organizing, sharing, and printing high quality digital pictures effortless. Further information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at http://www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare.
The HP Photosmart M23 is a 4 megapixel digital camera with a 1x Optical Zoom from HP. It is bronze in color and is virtually the same as the HP M22 (also released today). It features a weather resistant metal case, multi zone autofocus, in camera Red-Eye removal, in camera Panorama Preview as well as a 1.5inch LCD screen and PictBridge support.
The Photosmart M23 has 16MB of internal memory and takes an SD/MMC card for additional storage.
The Photosmart M23 will retail for $169 (US) and be in stores in the Spring of 2005 (US).
CNET Reviews features a review of the HP Photosmart M23 today and writes - 'With the plethora of affordable digital cameras available now, we have to wonder why HP is offering one without an optical zoom. Equipped with only a 7X digital zoom, this 4-megapixel camera doesn't cost much; however, sluggish performance and mediocre image quality overshadow the Photosmart M23's ease of use, attractive design, and price point. If you're in the market for an easy-to-use point-and-shoot camera, you're better off paying a few more dollars or dropping to a 3-megapixel model and getting an optical zoom.'
Key features and benefits
Additional Features
Technical specifications
Support/Connectivity:
Pricing and Availability
The HP Photosmart M22 is a 4 megapixel digital camera from HP that features a 1x Optical Zoom, 1.5inch LCD screen, PictBridge Support, 16MB internal memory and in camera reg eye removal. It will retail for $1499 (US) and be available in the Spring (northern hemisphere).
Buy the HP Photosmart M22 4MP Digital Camera
Steves Digicams reviews the HP PhotoSmart M22 and writes - 'The M22's shooting performance was average for a camera in this class. From power up to first image captured averaged about 3.6 seconds. Shutter lag (the time from pressing the shutter release to actually capturing the image) measured about 1/10 of a second when pre-focused and 5/10 of a second including autofocus. The shot-to-shot delay measured about 2 seconds between frames without the use of the flash and about 2.5 - 3.5 seconds with the flash. Unfortunately the M22 does not offer any type of continuous or burst capture mode. All test were done using a Lexar High-Speed 512MB SD card, using 4MP Best size/quality, flash off, and all other settings at default (unless otherwise noted.) Times may vary depending on lighting conditions, camera settings, media, etc.'
Trusted Reviews has a review of the HP Photosmart M22 and writes - 'The HP Photosmart M22 is a good concept that is let down badly by very inferior performance and picture quality. It is remarkably cheap, but even at under £85 it still isn’t good value for money. If you need weather resistance then there are better outdoor pursuits cameras available, such as the Pentax Optio WP and Olympus Mju 500, both of which have vastly superior performance.'
DigiCam Review has reviewed the HP Photosmart M22 and writes - 'The HP Photosmart M22 scores very highly on ease of use, but unfortunately falls short on image quality, with soft images, and poor indoor photo quality. The lack of optical zoom is a real shame as well - you may be better off buying a camera with an optical zoom lens. Images do have okay colour outdoors and this camera may suit those looking for an extremely easy to use weatherproof point and shoot camera on a budget.'
Pocket Lint reviews the HP PhotoSmart M22 digital camera and gives it a rating of 7 out of 10. They write - 'A weatherproof, all-metal digital compact for a penny less than £90 is pretty much a bargain by pretty much any standards, here the bonus of weatherproofing makes it particularly ideal for those out and about types among you. And while the M22’s larger print capability may be compromised by the camera’s harsh processing, if all you need are snaps while walking or when out and about, then this little camera might be just the one you’ve been waiting for.'
Take simple, brilliant quality, fun photos with friends and family, using the HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera
LONDON, FEBRUARY 18, 2005 – HP today announced the launch of the HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera, the latest model in the HP Photosmart M-Series range. With its slim line, all metal case, weather resistant features and HP Real Life technologies, the HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera combines durability, ease-of-use and quality into one compact package.
The HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera’s weather resistance technology (level 4) adds durability with a stylish sliding lens cover which offers protection while the digital camera is not in use. This enables users to battle the elements by allowing them to safely take pictures even in poor weather conditions.
In keeping with HP’s award winning signature design, the HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera benefits from a sleek and stylish silver aluminum body with a blue metallic surround. In addition, the classic HP design boasts rounded corners, ergonomic hold and an ultra-compact size.
The HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera has HP Precision Lens technology with a 6x total zoom (1x optical, 6x digital) and multi zone auto focus. Users can capture precision images and view them conveniently on the 3.8 cm colour LCD screen, perfect for viewing photos both indoors and out.
The HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera is equipped with a host of exclusive HP Real Life technologies to help produce award-winning HP image quality enhance the digital photography experience for the user. These landmark features include HP Adaptive Lighting which automatically brightens selected areas of high contrast photos, to give brighter, more true-to-life shots and HP In-Camera Red-Eye Removal system, ensuring that your digital photography results are flawless.
In addition, HP Panorama Photo mode allows users to produce stunning multi-shot photos of landscapes, by displaying a ghosted section of the previous image on the LCD screen and ‘stitching’ the shots together when they are downloaded to the PC, providing a seamless finish.
The HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera also benefits from HP’s Instant Share technology, which allows easy downloading, printing, viewing and sharing by email or via the web. With 4 MP resolution, the HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera produces sharp, crisp photos in a variety of conditions, simply and easily, with logical button layout and software. Each photo is created to such a high photo quality that users can enlarge each one to poster size.
The HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera is available from April 2005 at a recommended UK street price of £99.99 (actual prices may vary).
The HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera With An All-Metal Case and Weather Resistance
Overview
The affordable, 4 megapixel, 6x digital zoom HP Photosmart M22 Digital Camera with HP Instant Share, allows users to capture true-to-life digital photos. It features HP Real Life technologies, including Adaptive Lighting, In-Camera Red-Eye Removal, In-Camera Panorama Preview and HP Image Advice. The camera supports picture taking in a variety of conditions and locations, due to its weather resistant and durable all-metal case which is small enough to fit in a pocket.
Key features and benefits
• Weather resistant, all-metal case for taking photos in a variety of conditions.
• Multi zone auto focus provides sharp, clear photos by searching for focus in several areas of an image to capture the best shot
• HP’s exclusive Real Life technologies, developed in HP Labs, help take the guesswork out of digital photography and make it easy to produce great photos that are crisp, realistic and true-to-life. HP Real Life technologies include:
• Adaptive lighting to adjust high contrast photos to bring faces out of shadows and details out of backgrounds.
• In-Camera Red-Eye Removal to eliminate the red-eye while images are still in the camera.
• In-Camera Panorama Preview to allow the user to view a ‘pre-stitched’ image on the camera before downloading to a computer.
• HP Image Advice for tips on how to improve a specific photo the next time it is taken.
• HP Instant Share makes sharing, printing and saving digital photos easy. Users simply take a photo and select any one of 34 destinations right on the back of the camera, including email addresses, online photo albums, printers and more, simply by pushing a button.
• When the digital camera is later connected to a computer the selected photos are automatically printed or emailed without burdening the recipient with large file attachments.
• Instant share recipients see thumbnails of the images right in the body of their email message, as well as a link to the web page where they can easily view, print and save the photos, upload them to online albums and more.
• Video clip capture with audio, records memories in sound and motion.
Technical specifications
• 4 megapixel resolution
• 6x digital zoom
• Dimensions/Weight 9.6 cm (L) x 2.9 cm (W) x 4.8 cm (H) 570 g without batteries 810 g with batteries
• 16 MB internal memory for storing photos
• 3.8 cm (1.5 inch) outdoor viewable LCD screen
• SD/MMC card slot for storing additional photos
• PictBridge support
• Exif 2.2 support
• Support/Connectivity
• USB connectivity (USB 2.0 compatible)
• USB-compatible PC with Microsoft Windows 98, 98 SE, Me— Pentium II (233 minimum) and equivalent Celeron or compatible; 64 MB RAM, 200 MB disk space; Windows 2000, XP Home and Professional Editions— Pentium II (233 minimum) and equivalent Celeron or compatible; 128 MB RAM, 400 MB disk space; SVGA monitor (800 x 600, 16-bit color), CD-ROM drive, Internet Explorer 5.01 with Service Pack 2 or later, open USB port compatible with USB 2.0 specifications USB-compatible Macintosh computer with Mac OS X v 10.2.x or later, 500 MHz PowerPC processor; QuickTime Version 5.0.1 or later; 128 MB RAM; 240 MB disk space; SVGA monitor (800 x 600, 16-bit color); CD-ROM drive; open USB port
• One year limited hardware warranty backed by HP Service and Support.
Accessories
• HP Photosmart M-Series Quick Recharge Kit for quick and convenient recharging even on the move
• HP AC Adaptor
• An optional HP M-Series case and Silver Case is also available for the camera
Pricing and Availability
• Estimated UK street price of £99.99 ($149) (actual price may vary). Expected to be available for purchase in Spring 2005.
Get the Latest Price on the HP PhotoSmart M22
The HP R717 is a new 6.2 megapixel digital camera from HP that features a 1.8inch LCD screen, 12 shooting modes, 3x Optical Zoom, 32MB internal storage and a range of manual controls for those who like to be a little creative and be in the driving seat of their digital camera. It will sell for around $199 (US) and be in stores by Spring (northern hemisphere.
Buy the “HP Photosmart R717 6MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom”
CNET Reviews the HP Photosmart R717 and writes - 'The 7.1-ounce R717 is a nice-looking camera, with a pleasingly curvy design, a brushed-metal front, and an easy-to-grip rear surface. The 1.8-inch LCD screen isn't terribly large, but it's more than bright enough to read and can be adjusted to a lower setting to save on battery life. The buttons are nicely laid out on the rear right side of the camera; the only control not in immediate reach of your right thumb is the Shooting Mode button, located to the left of the R717's top panel. The included optical viewfinder provides decent coverage of your frame, though if you're zoomed all the way out, a piece of the camera's lens is visible in the lower-right corner of the window. HP deserves kudos for its extremely well-designed menu and user interface; clicking OK on any menu function pulls up a detailed explanation of what to expect at every setting of each included feature. Furthermore, the menu's uncomplicated layout makes it an engaging, educational tool for anyone just getting their feet wet in digital photography.'
PhotographyBLOG reviews the HP Photosmart R717 and writes - 'The HP Photosmart R717 continues a recent trend in the digital camera industry of taking an existing successful design, upgrading the megapixel count and releasing it as a brand new model. There really is very little difference between the R717 and its award-winning predecessor, the R707. The main change is the upgrade from 5 to 6 megapixels. While this allows for marginally bigger prints, it does result in slightly noisier images at ISO 200 and faster, plus there's slightly more evidence of chromatic aberrations in the form of purple fringing in high-contrast areas. The LCD screen is the other main change, now being 1.8 inches in size rather than 1.5 inches. In an age of 2.5 inch screens, this change just about keeps the R717 competitive in this aspect of design, but only just.'
Trusted Reviews has a review of the HP Photosmart R717 and writes - 'So far so impressive, but finally we come to picture quality. This proved to be the Achilles’ Heel for the M417, and sadly it is also for the R717, although it doesn’t have to be. In default mode the camera has an alarming tendency to apply full noise reduction and image sharpening to every shot, resulting in a certain loss of detail. Fortunately saturation, contrast, sharpness and colour are all menu options, so you can tweak the picture to some extent. What you can’t tweak is the lens distortion produced at wide angle. Blur creeps in from the corners and edges of the picture, caused by inaccuracies in the lens design. HP would be wise to sign another deal with one of the big optics companies, as it did with Pentax a few years ago. With a decent lens on it this would be a top-notch camera.High tech but easy to use, the HP R717 is capable of turning in some top-quality shots under ideal circumstances, and copes better than most with unusual lighting. Its relatively low price should make it a competitive choice in the high-end compact market.'
Digital Camera Review has reviewed the HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera and recommends - 'The HP R717 is a solid entry-level camera. It has an excellent help system to guide beginners, a polished fit and finish, and good to very good image quality. However, this camera's rating has more to do with the overall end-to-end photography experience it can provide when combined with other HP products. Features like automatic red-eye removal and Adaptive Lighting assist the novice in taking above average photos. HP Instant Share simplifies photo distribution, posting, and printing. The optional docking station and PC software will let you organize photos, print directly to HP printers, and view slideshows on your television. Finally, HP's online photo sharing service allows for mass photo sharing and high-quality printing.'
Digicam Review has posted a user review of the HP Photosmart R717 where they write - 'Image quality is good - the images have really good pleasing colour, good detail although images could do with a sharpen and suffer from corner softness. Images have fairly low noise as long as you stick to ISO50 or ISO100 and depending on how much adaptive lighting changes the image. There is very little purple fringing, although it can be spotted. Image compression doesn't seem to cause jpeg artifacts, and there is an additional high quality (4 star) mode for even higher quality images.'
New camera delivers precision digital photography with user-friendly advanced features.
LONDON, FEBRUARY 18, 2005 – HP today announced the launch of the HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera, the latest model in the HP Photosmart R-Series range, incorporating all of the features of its predecessor, the awarding winning HP Photosmart R707 Digital Camera and more. With its sleek design and high-functioning technical innovation, the HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera offers both ease-of-use and exceptional digital photography results to all users.
With an impressive 6 MP resolution, the HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera produces clear and crisp shots in a variety of conditions. In keeping with HP’s signature styling the new digital camera benefits from a sleek and sculpted design with a stylish brushed stainless steel front and asymmetric body details.
The HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera boasts a new, powerful 24x total zoom (3x optical, 8x digital) HP Precision Lens and multi-zone auto focus for sharp, accurate shots from almost any distance, making it ideal for amateur photographers looking for control and creativity from their digital shots. With a 32 MB internal picture storage capacity, the HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera gives photographers the power and flexibility to get the most out of their digital photography.
The HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera also benefits from a host of exclusive HP Real Life technologies to help produce award-winning HP image quality and a creative and pleasant digital photography experience for the user. These landmark features include HP Adaptive Lighting, which automatically brightens selected areas of high contrast photos to give brighter, more true-to-life shots and HP In-Camera Red-Eye Removal system to ensure that digital photography results are flawless. HP Panorama photo mode allows users to produce stunning multi-shot photos of landscapes by displaying a ghosted section of the previous image on the LCD screen and ‘automatically stitching’ the shots together when they are downloaded to the PC, providing a seamless finish.
To put the user firmly in control of their digital photography results, the HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera provides a full range of auto and manual modes for full control, including a customisable ‘My Mode’ selection. With 12 shooting modes and a rapid burst mode, this HP digital camera provides a clear and user-friendly way to improve and build upon your digital photography skills.
The stylish new HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera is also accompanied by the HP Photosmart R-Series digital camera docking station, an easy-to-use and flexible device either bundled with the digital camera or as an optional accessory. This multi-functional docking station can recharge the Li-Ion battery while it’s in the camera, as well as provides an extra charging bay for a second battery that is included with the dock. The HP Photosmart R-Series digital camera docking station connects to a PC or Mac and uses HP Instant Share software to allow easy downloading, printing and emailing. It can also be connected to a TV to allow easy viewing of photos as a slideshow using the ultra-slim remote control.
The HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera and Dock bundle comes complete with an HP Photosmart R-Series Quick Recharge Kit for quick and convenient recharging even on the move, as well as a second HP R07 Rechargeable Battery and HP AC Adaptor. The optional HP R-Series Silver Camera Case is also available for the camera.
The HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera is available at a recommended street price of £199.99 and the HP Photosmart R717 Digital Camera and Dock bundle version is available for separate purchase at £239.99; (actual prices may vary).
Key features and benefits
• 2 megapixel resolution for photo quality enlargements up to poster size.
• 4.5 cm (1.8 inch), outdoor viewable LCD screen.
• 12 shooting modes.
• Multi-zone auto focus provides sharp, clear photos by searching for focus in several areas of an image to capture the best shot.
• Robust manual controls enable creative touches in addition to customisation of settings, which can then be saved as a unique mode.
• HP’s exclusive Real Life technologies, developed in HP Labs, help take the guesswork out of digital photography and make it easy to produce great photos that are crisp, realistic and true-to-life. HP Real Life technologies include:
• Adaptive Lighting to adjust high contrast photos bringing faces out of shadows and details out of backgrounds.
• In-Camera Red-Eye Removal to eliminate the red-eye while images are still in the camera.
• In-Camera Panorama Preview to allow the user to view a ‘pre-stitched’ image on the camera before downloading to a computer.
• HP Image Advice for tips on how to improve a specific photo the next time it is taken.
• HP Instant Share makes sharing, printing and saving digital photos easy. Users simply take a photo and select any one of its 34 destinations right on the back of the camera, including email addresses, online photo albums, printers and more, simply by pushing a button.
• When the digital camera is later connected to a computer or the optional HP Photosmart R-Series Digital Camera Dock (sold separately), the selected photos are automatically printed or emailed without burdening the recipient with large file attachments.
• Email recipients see thumbnails of the images in the body of their email message, as well as a link to the web page where they can very easily view, print and save the photos, upload them to online photo albums and more.
Additional features
• HP Image Zone software is a complete, easy to use software solution for the needs of digital photographers.
• Video clip capture with audio, is a feature which records memories in sound and motion and also shoots a series of photos in rapid succession.
• Optional HP Photosmart R-Series Digital Camera Dock (sold separately) connects with the camera to send photos to a computer, view photos on a TV screen and recharge the battery in the camera. It also features an additional charging bay to power a second battery, also supplied with the camera.
Technical specifications
• 6.2 megapixel resolution
• 24x total zoom - HP Precision 3x optical lens, 8x digital
• 32 MB internal storage memory for storing photos
Dimensions/Weight
• 9.7 cm (W) x 3.6 cm (D) x 6.0 cm (H)
• 180 g without battery
• 210 g with battery
• SD/MMC card slot for storing additional photos
• 4.5 cm (1.8 inch), outdoor viewable LCD screen
• HP Photosmart R07 Rechargeable Lithium Ion battery with in-camera recharging included
• PictBridge support
• Exif 2.2 support
• Support/Connectivity
USB connectivity (USB 2.0 compatible)
USB-compatible PC with Microsoft Windows 98, 98 SE, Me— Pentium II (233 minimum) and equivalent Celeron or compatible; 64 MB RAM, 200 MB disk space; Windows 2000, XP Home and Professional Editions— Pentium II (233 minimum) and equivalent Celeron or compatible; 128 MB RAM, 400 MB disk space; SVGA monitor (800 x 600, 16-bit color), CD-ROM drive, Internet Explorer 5.01 with Service Pack 2 or later, open USB port compatible with USB 2.0 specifications USB-compatible Macintosh computer with Mac OS X v 10.2.x or later, 500 MHz PowerPC processor; QuickTime Version 5.0.1 or later; 128 MB RAM; 240 MB disk space; SVGA monitor (800 x 600, 16-bit color); CD-ROM drive; open USB por
One year limited warranty and telephone support backed by HP Customer Care.
Accessories
• HP Photosmart R-Series digital camera docking station, an easy-to-use and flexible device either bundled with the digital camera or as an optional accessory
• HP Photosmart R-Series Quick Recharge Kit for quick and convenient recharging even on the move
• HP R07 Rechargeable Battery and HP AC Adaptor
• An optional HP R-Series case and Silver Sport Case is also available for the camera
Pricing and availability
Estimated UK street price of £199.99 ($299). Expected to be available for purchase in Spring 2005.
Lexar News Release: Lexar to Demonstrate LockTight Digital Imaging Security Solution at Photo Marketing International (PMA) in Orlando
ORLANDO, FL, February 17, 2005 – Lexar Media, Inc. (Nasdaq: LEXR), a leading marketer and manufacturer of high-performance digital media and accessories, today announced that the company will demonstrate its LockTight TM CompactFlash digital image security solution, at the upcoming PMA show in Orlando beginning Sunday, February 20. Lexar's LockTight flash memory cards incorporate a high level of flash memory card security, while maintaining digital camera performance. Nikon's D2X is the first camera to incorporate this new technology and address the security need of its customers.
“Integrating support for Lexar's LockTight System in the D2X camera assures our professional and industrial customers that their valuable image data is protected by memory card-level security technology,” said Kazuyuki Kazami, general manager of marketing, Nikon Corporation. “LockTight is the ideal system for our many photographers who take pictures of sensitive or confidential material and need to protect their images from unauthorized access.”
“As digital photography is increasingly used in commercial, medical and industrial applications, the need to protect the content on memory cards has also grown,” said John Omvik, director of professional product marketing, Lexar. “We're excited to work with Nikon to deliver this unique solution that addresses this security need of many professional customers.”
Lexar's LockTight CompactFlash utilizes 160 bit encryption technology, using the SHA-1 (Secure Hash Algorithm), a standard approved by the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) and among the most effective and widely accepted security solutions available. Central to the LockTight system is an easy-to-use software tool for establishing security settings on the memory card and corresponding digital camera. Digital content stored on the memory card can only be accessed via the digital camera(s) with the corresponding encryption key or via a PC with a valid username and password. This unique security system utilizing and synchronizing the memory card and the camera offers users a secure digital imaging solution.
Lexar's LockTight CompactFlash is expected to be available at photo-specialty stores and through key market value added resellers in the beginning of April 2005.
The solution will be exhibited in Lexar's booth (#4132) at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) show taking place in Orlando between Sunday, February 20 and Wednesday, February 23.
There has been some discussion in DP Review's Forums about our publication yesterday of details of the new Canon Rebel XT after a reader (Rich) emailed me with pointing me to this page at the Lets Go Digital's PMA Report. I do not know how Rich found the page (it was not linked to from their front page) but assume that he made some educated guesses after looking at the URLs of previously announced new digital cameras on their website and having seen people talking about the impending announcement new Rebel on a variety of sites (including DP Review's Forums). The name 'Rebel XT' was one that had already leaked and along with names like 'Rebel 350D' - putting the previously used URLs and the names together was probably not the most difficult thing to do.
One of the accusations that have been made against this site is that in posting the information that we did about the Canon XT that we broke an embargo on the information. Sites like DP Review and Lets Go Digital do have non disclosure agreements with manufacturers like Canon. These agreements ensure that they do not speak publically about upcoming products - in return they are usually given press releases, product photos and sometimes even test cameras to help them prepare for their articles when the camera is officially announced.
Digital Photography Blog has previously approached most digital camera manufacturers and has asked to be included in their non disclosure programs - I would be willing to hold off on publishing information if given advanced warning of new products - however so far no manufacturers (including Canon) have responded in the affirmative - in fact few have responded at all. We have no non disclosure agreements (although are open to exploring going in this direction) and therefore are not under any obligation to hold off on publishing reliable information that comes out way.
Some of the criticism of our approach has been that we are just after new readership/more traffic to our site. I'm not sure this needs much of a response - of course we'd like to increase our readership - as would any website out there on any topic including the sites making the criticisms. However this is not our sole motivation - we want to get the most relevant, reliable and most comprehensive information available onto our sites as quickly as we possibly can. In doing so we may have put some manufacturers offside - we regret this - but until they recognize us and respond to our requests to be included in their information dispersion programs we are forced to publish the tips that we get.
We are passionate about digital photography and like many of our readers want the latest information as quickly as it is legally available. We'll continue to provide this service to our growing readership whilst continuing to attempt to build relationships with camera manufacturers and other websites. Whilst we are not the most visited site on the internet for digital imaging news our 10,000 or so daily readers know that if they want the latest news that we usually have it before or shortly after it becomes official.
I have no problem with DP Review removing links to our breaking news in their forums. Yesterday one of our mutual readers posted a link to our news only to have it removed last night. I understand the reason it was removed - it broke the agreement that DP Review had with Canon and they were well within their rights to do so.
Overall I hope that we have not digital imaging as an industry is built up by this site and that you our readers are satisfied with the information that we provide. I'm happy to have your feedback on our approach to covering the latest Digital Photography News - simple shoot me an email using our contact form.
Darren Rowse
Digital Photography Blog Editor
January was a big month for new digital cameras (over 40 new products) but February is shaping up to be even bigger. Already we've had some big announcements in the lead up to the PMA show in a few days time. Here is a summary of what has been going on in digital camera new release world so far this month:
Canon
- Canon Rebel XT DSLR - 8.0MP DSLR
- Canon Powershot SD400 - IXUS 50 - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Canon Powershot SD500 - IXUS 700- 7.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Canon Selphy CP600 Photo Printer
- Canon PIXMA MP760 All in One Printer
- Canon EOS 20Da (Japan only)
- Canon Powershot A520 - 4MP, 4x Optical Zoom
Casio
- Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z750 - 7.2MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z57 - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Casio Exilim EX-Z55 'Black Panther' and 'Deep Blue' - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
Concord
- Concord EasyShot 820z - 8MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Concord EasyShot 500z - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Concord EasyShot 510z - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Concord 5042 - 5MP, 4x Digital Zoom
- Concord 5040 - 5MP, 4x Optical Zoom
- Concord 3047 - 3MP, 4x Digital Zoom
- Concord 4042 - 4MP, 4x Digital Zoom
Creative
- Creative DiVi CAM 316 Mini Digital Camcorder - Convergence Device, 3.1MP still
FujiFilm
- Fujifilm Finepix F10 Zoom - 6.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Fujifilm Finepix Z1 Zoom - 5.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Fujifilm Finepix A350 Zoom - 5.2MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Fujifilm Finepix A345 Zoom - 4.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Fujifilm Q1 Digital 4.0 Ir - 4MP, 4x Digital Zoom
HP
- HP Photosmart R607 - 4.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- HP Photosmart M417 - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- HP Photosmart M23 - 4MP, 1x Optical Zoom
- HP Photosmart M22 - 4MP, 1x Optical Zoom
- HP Photosmart R717 - 6.2MP, 3x Optical Zoom
Kodak
- Kodak EasyShare C340 - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Kodak EasyShare C300 - 3MP, fixed focal length lens
- Kodak EasyShare Z730 - 5MP, 4x Optical Zoom
- Kodak EasyShare Z7590 - 5MP, 10x Optical Zoom
Nikon
- Nikon D2Hs DSLR - 4.1MP DSLR
- Nikon Coolpix 4600 - 4MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Nikon Coolpix 5600 - 5.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Nikon Coolpix 5900 - 5.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Nikon Coolpix 7600 - 7.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Nikon Coolpix 7900 - 7.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
Olympus
- Olympus D-545 Zoom/Olympus C-4800 - 4MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Olympus D-595 Zoom/Olympus C500 - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Olympus D-630 Zoom/Olympus FE-5500 - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Olympus Stylus Verve S - 5MP, 2x Optical Zoom
- Olympus IR-300 - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
Panasonic
- Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ4 - 4MP, 12x Optical Zoom
- Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5 - 5MP, 12x Optical Zoom
- Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ1 - 4MP, 6x Optical Zoom
- Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ2 - 4MP, 6x Optical Zoom
- Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS1 - 4MP, 3x Optical Zoom
Pentax
- Pentax Optio 50 - 5.19MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Pentax *istDS Silver - DSLR
- Pentax OptioS5n - 5MP, 3x Optical Zoom
Sanyo
- Sanyo Xact DSC-S5 - 5MP, 2.8x Optical Zoom
Sony
- Sony Cybershot DSC-W7 - 7.2MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Sony Cybershot DSC-S90 - 4MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Sony Cybershot DSC-S60 - 4MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Sony Cybershot DSC-S40 - 4.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom
- Sony Cybershot DSC-H1 - 5.1MP, 12x Optical Zoom
The all weather Olympus Stylus Verve S (also known as the µ-mini Digital S) is an update of the popular Stylus Verve. It has a 5 megapixel CCD sensor and 2x Optical Zoom and features some new additions to the Verve including a calendar and Album features.
Buy the “Olympus Stylus Verve S
5-Megapixel CCD, New Calendar and Album Features and Optimized Battery Technology Enhance the New Verve S Digital Camera
With the announcement of the new 5.0-megapixel Stylus Verve S, Olympus adds more choices to its line-up of sleek, ultra-compact digital cameras in the Stylus Verve series. The new Stylus Verve S packs 5 million pixels of image resolution into its compact, durable, all-weather designer body, along with new features such as a calendar, album function and a histogram for enhanced usability.
“The original Stylus Verve series was created to inspire creativity and self-expression, redefining the design of digital cameras,” said Tomoko Matsunaga, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “The new Stylus Verve S builds upon that great design to offer more options while continuing the tradition of power, performance, all-weather durability, and exquisite style synonymous with the Olympus Stylus Digital series.”
Designed to Do More
The Stylus Verve S combines a 5.0-megapixel CCD image sensor with Olympus’ exclusive image processor, TruePic TURBO™, which significantly enhances image quality and delivers faster overall processing speeds for rapid startup, shutter release and playback. TruePic TURBO uses pixel “micro-smoothing” to deliver clearer, more color-accurate photos, even at lower resolutions. The result is high quality prints that can be cropped and printed to 11 x 14 inches and larger. And with a fast startup of less than one second and nearly instant shutter release time, you’re always ready to take great pictures.
The bright, clear 1.8-inch HyperCrystal™ LCD delivers a high contrast image and 160-degree angle of view. So gather your friends around – your photos are viewable from above, from the side, and from below. And while conventional LCD screens appear dim against bright light, the HyperCrystal™ LCD provides excellent visibility in any light condition – on the beach, under the stars, in the rain, or on the slopes.
The Stylus line of digital cameras is renowned for all-weather durability. The body of the Stylus Verve S is constructed of durable, lightweight metal with rubber gaskets throughout the interior to ensure that rain, sleet, snow or sand won’t get in the way of great photos. Designed for active digital photographers always on the go, the Stylus Verve S also features optimized battery technology that enables users to get more shots between battery charges.
Delivering Style
Modeled after the shape of a falling water droplet, the Stylus Verve S maintains the unique body design of its predecessor, the Stylus Verve. With its smooth contoured lines and ultra-compact size of just 3.7 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches and weight of only 4.1 ounces, the Stylus Verve S fits snugly in a hip pocket or in the palm of the hand.
A new finger grip on the front of the camera further enhances the ergonomics, making it easy to snap pictures when holding the camera with one hand. The black camera body has a new high-gloss finish and is constructed of metal for all-weather durability, with a circular lens barrier that tucks away inside the camera body when on, and protects the lens from the elements with an impermeable seal when closed. The camera also delivers pizzazz in the form of programmable sound effects, such as the rev of a sports car engine or a pleasing chime upon start-up as well as three catchy shutter sounds to choose from.
Designed for Excitement
The Stylus Verve S will change the way you think about your digital camera. Now instead of simply capturing images, you can think of your camera as a portable photo album that goes wherever you go. The new Album Function makes it easy to organize photos into photo albums stored on the camera’s xD-Picture Card™. You can create up to 12 individual albums of 100 images each, in the order you want to show them, and take your photos everywhere – your photo album will no longer be confined to your coffee table. And with the new built-in Calendar Function, images are automatically organized and recalled by date.
Intelligent Design
Olympus photos are known worldwide for sharp, vibrant image quality. This is achieved through a number of key technologies, such as Olympus’ high-quality all-glass lens (with aspherical lens elements), designed specifically for digital cameras. The lens provides the equivalent of 35 to 70mm, f3.5 – f4.9 in 35mm photography, with 8x combined total zoom (2x optical and 4x digital) to bring the action closer, as well as a Super Macro Mode that captures close-up images of fine details like the wings of a butterfly.
Designed to perform during a variety of occasions, the Stylus Verve S includes 16 shooting modes that can be accessed through the camera’s menu to provide fully automatic exposure adjustments for shooting Night Scenes, Landscapes, Fireworks, Cuisine and more. And the inclusion of advanced shooting functions, such as a direct histogram and white balance presets, makes it easy to capture images with perfect exposure every time. With its QuickTime® Movie Mode, the Stylus Verve S can record movies of any length, limited only by the size of the memory card in the camera.
Designed to be Approachable
Connecting the Stylus Verve S to a computer is easy with the USB Auto Connect feature, which connects directly via USB 2.0 cable and requires no software. Or, If you prefer, forget the computer altogether. The power of PictBridge technology enables photos to be printed directly from the Stylus Verve S to any PictBridge-enabled printer, such as the Olympus P-10 Digital Photo Printer, without using a computer. Printing and sharing images has never been easier, and the P-10’s photo lab-quality dye-sublimation printing produces archival-quality prints in rich color.
OLYMPUS Master™ software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are searchable by date or keyword in the Calendar View. And with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye reduction, images can be touched up before printing or emailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away.
Availability
The Stylus Verve S will be available in April 2005. It includes a 16MB xD-Picture Card, Wrist Strap, Camera WIN/Mac USB Cable, Audio/Video cable, Li-30B Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery and Charger, Quick Start Guide, Basic Instruction Manual, Warranty Card, CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master Software, and Camera Advanced Manual.
U.S. Pricing
Stylus Verve S Estimated Street Price: $349.99 (U.S.)
Steves Digicams reviews the Olympus Stylus Verve S and writes - 'he Stylus Verve S is a great choice for those with an active lifestyle who don't stop just because it starts raining. It's also good for the family or anyone that spends the day at the beach or a ski resort. With an MSRP of $299 it offers a very good value. Just make sure you add at least two items to your purchase; a larger xD-Picture card and a second LI-30B battery. '
CNET Reviews has reviewed the Olympus Stylus Verve S and writes - 'If you put a higher priority on stylish features than functions and options, this conversation piece provides acceptable snapshots for small prints with a minimum of user involvement. If you need manual controls other than EV adjustments, you're out of luck. However, the Olympus Stylus Verve S's 16 scene modes handle most shooting situations, and its clutch of special effects, including fish-eye and soft-focus looks, are fun to use. Its water-resistant “all weather” ruggedness, which includes a gasketed lens cover and battery compartment door, should make this camera popular among the outdoors set.'
Byte Sector reviews the Olympus Stylus Verve S and writes - 'The Stylus Verve S is rated as a point and shoot camera. In this genre, I would place it well above average. Standard pictures of landscapes, people, and slow action scenes were captured with well-defined colour, minimal aberration, and a sharp, clean image. I feel this is a product that keeps to the Olympus lens-making tradition, and the clever concealment of the lens when the camera is off helps to keep it free from dirt.'
The Olympus D-630 (also known as the Olympus FE-5500) is a super slim designed 5 megapixel digital camera that features 3x Optical Zoom, 2.0inch LCD monitor, 14MB internal memory and PictBridge compatibility. It will ship in April 2005 and should retail at $299.99 (US).
Olympus News Release: OLYMPUS ANNOUNCES THE D-630 ZOOM: THE ULTRA-SLIM DIGITAL CAMERA THAT GOES EVERYWHERE YOU GO
5.0-Megapixel Image Sensor, 3x Optical Zoom, Large 2.0-Inch LCD and Built-in Help Guide in a Slim Metal Body
Olympus is excited to announce the D-630 Zoom ultra-slim 5.0-megapixel digital camera, featuring an elegant new design for compact portability. The minimalist beauty of this thin, brushed metal camera is much more than skin deep, with loads of features specifically designed for simplicity. Every action is accessed directly from the camera’s menu, which is easy to view in the large 2.0-inch LCD. A built-in help guide provides new users with all the information they need. And automatic scene modes ensure fabulous results in even the most difficult-to-capture lighting situations.
“At Olympus we believe that great design should be reflected throughout the camera, from the way the camera body looks and feels in your hands, to the usability of the features, to the quality of the pictures it captures,” said Naoki Tai, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “The D-630 Zoom is designed to appeal to users who appreciate simple, elegant design and want a camera that is as attractive and portable as it is easy to use.”
Delivering Style
Sometimes less is more, as with the sleek design of the D-630 Zoom. The metal body has clean, sharp lines that will appeal to the discerning eye – and hand – of the purist. Smaller than a deck of cards, at a mere one-inch thick (3.1“ W x 2.4” H x 1.0“ D) and weighing just 4.4 ounces, the D-630 Zoom slips discreetly in a shirt or jacket pocket without so much as a bulge. This is a camera that you’ll soon be taking with you everywhere.
Designed For You
The D-630 Zoom is designed to enable users of all skill levels to enjoy the fun and convenience of digital photography – from shooting pictures to sharing them with friends – without the learning curve. The large 2.0-inch LCD makes it easy to review images and make menu selections. A built-in help guide can be accessed from the menu with images and brief descriptions of each function and shooting mode to help users determine the settings that best suit their shooting situation and purpose. The inclusion of 10 automatic scene modes makes it easy to capture great images in a variety of lighting situations, such as portrait, night scene, or sports. A QuickTime® Movie mode with sound enables users to create and share short movies.
OLYMPUS Master software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are searchable by date or keyword in the Calendar View. With one-click editing tools, such as red-eye reduction, images can be touched up before printing or emailing. Online support, templates and other user services are just a mouse-click away.
Connecting the D-630 Zoom to a computer is easy with the USB Auto Connect feature, which connects the camera directly via USB 2.0 cable to a computer and requires no software. And with the power of PictBridge technology, photos can be printed directly from the camera to any PictBridge-enabled printer, such as the Olympus P-10 Digital Photo Printer, without using a computer. Printing and sharing images has never been easier, and the P-10’s photo lab-quality dye-sublimation printing produces archival-quality prints in rich color.
Designed to Do More
Olympus digital cameras are designed to empower users to do more than they imagined possible with their camera, placing the power to create sharp, vibrant images right at their fingertips. The D-630 Zoom employs a 5.0-megapixel CCD that enables users to capture images of such high quality that they can be cropped and printed to 11 x 14 inches and larger. Olympus’ high-quality lenses are designed specifically for digital cameras to deliver edge-to-edge sharpness and clarity. The D-630 Zoom combines a 3x optical zoom lens (35-105mm equivalent in 35mm photography f2.8 – f4.8) with a 4x digital zoom to deliver a total 12x zoom so virtually no photo opportunity is out of reach. And with the macro mode it’s possible to capture amazingly small details, as tiny as the date on the back of a penny, from as close as 4 inches.
Availability
The D-630 Zoom will be available in April 2005. It includes: Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery and Charger (Li-40B and Li-40C), USB Cable (WIN/MAC), Audio/Video Cable, Wrist Strap, Quick Start Guide, Quick Reference Guide, Basic Instruction Manual, CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master Software and Advanced Instruction Manual, Warranty Card.
U.S. Pricing
D-630 Zoom Estimated Street Price: $299.99 (U.S.)
The Olympus Camedia D-595 (also known as the Olympus C-500) is a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens. It features 19 shooting modes, 1.8inch LCD, a boxy design, macro mode of up to 2cm and will be available in the next month at $279.99 ($US).
DigiCamReview reviews the Olympus Camedia C-500 and writes - 'Image Quality: Image quality is very good, the images have good colour, saturation, contrast and good detail - however there is some purple fringing. Images tend to come out of the camera looking very good. The camera did a good job focusing - although in low-light did struggle. Noise was on the low side, even up to ISO400, however I did notice a colour shift at ISO400. I didn't notice any vignetting in the corners. There is a small range of image sizes and a very small choice of compression options. The super macro mode is very good. Auto white balance and metering seemed to be very good. Red-eye was controlled quite well. The movie mode is slightly better than average, at 320x240 / 30fps with sound.'
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Olympus C-500 Zoom and writes - 'The Olympus C-500 Zoom is an easy-to-use, well-made entry level digital camera that ultimately is difficult to get too excited about. With the exception of the Manual exposure mode, which gives you some control over aperture and shutter speed, it doesn't offer anything to set it apart from the competition. It's not particularly compact or stylish, doesn't offer a wide-angle or ultra-zoom lens, has an average movie mode, and only has a 1.8 inch LCD screen. Having said all that, it is well-suited to the entry-level market that it is aimed at. The scene modes are numerous and will definitely help the beginner and there is even an in-built help system (although it is pretty limited). The Olympus C-500 Zoom is not very well-suited to capturing fast-moving subjects, with limited continuous shooting modes and no continuous auto-focusing option, but it does consistently achieve focus indoors despite the lack of an auto-focus assist lamp.'
5.0-megapixel Image Sensor Delivers Incredible Images, “One Touch” Design and Built-in Help Guide Enhances Operability
– For photographers looking for a digital camera designed to do more, the new 5.0-megapixel D-595 Zoom combines the power of manual control with the convenience of an easy-to-use design for incredible results. Featuring manual control of shutter speed and aperture options, a 3x optical zoom and 19 shooting modes, the D-595 Zoom combines manual settings with the ease of a point-and-shoot, packing high-end advanced features into an affordable, easy-to-use compact camera.
“As digital photographers’ skills develop, they come to expect more creative control over the quality of their pictures,” said Naoki Tai, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “With this in mind, we developed the D-595 Zoom to empower users to do more than they’ve ever done before with their digital camera. Options for manual shutter speed and aperture give users more creative control over their images, while the inclusion of 19 automatic scene modes makes it easy to get great shots in virtually any lighting situation.
Designed to Do More
The D-595 Zoom is designed make it simple for users to take creative control over their photographs. With manual modes for aperture and shutter speed, users can easily adjust depth of field to bring subjects sharply into the foreground with the best f-stop, and control exposure speed to capture stunning shots of subjects in motion.
Fully automatic snapshots are still as easy as ever, and the inclusion of 19 shooting modes, accessed via a rotating dial and menu button on the back of the camera, makes it easy to capture great images in a variety of lighting situations, such as Portrait, Fireworks, and Indoor. A QuickTime® Movie mode with sound enables users to create short movies of events that can be emailed to family and friends. And with the new frame integration function, users can select various colorful, decorative borders for favorite pictures to print or email to friends.
Intelligent Design Ensures Quality Images
The 3x optical zoom lens (38-114mm equivalent in 35mm photography f2.8 – f4.9) combines with a 4x digital zoom to deliver a total 12x zoom so virtually no photo opportunity is out of reach. And with the super macro mode it is possible to capture amazingly small details, as tiny as the date on the back of a penny, from as close as 0.8 inches.
The camera’s 5.0-megapixel CCD image sensor combined with Olympus’ exclusive TruePic TURBO™ Image Processor significantly enhances image quality and delivers faster overall processing speeds for rapid startup, shutter release and playback. TruePic TURBO allows the D-595 Zoom to capture information from all 5 million pixels with pixel “micro-smoothing” that delivers clearer and more color-accurate photos. This results in high quality prints that can be cropped and enlarged to 11 x 14 inches and larger.
Designed to be Approachable
The D-595 Zoom features an easy-to-use “One Touch” design with individual buttons for shooting, reviewing and deleting images conveniently located on the body of the camera so that frequently used functions can be easily accessed. Macro mode, Flash mode and a self-timer are located on an arrow pad at your fingertips for quick use while setting up the perfect composition. The camera’s simple menu incorporates a new help guide with images and brief descriptions of each function and shooting mode to help users determine the settings that best suit their shooting situation and purpose. And for added convenience, the D-595 Zoom accepts readily available AA-size alkaline batteries. A battery-saving sleep mode helps users maximize battery life.
OLYMPUS Master software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are searchable by date or keyword in the Calendar View. With one-click editing tools, such as red-eye reduction, images can be touched up before printing or emailing. Online support, templates and other user services are just a mouse-click away.
Connecting the D-595 Zoom to a computer is easy with the USB Auto Connect feature, which connects the camera directly via USB 2.0 cable to a computer and requires no software. And with the power of PictBridge technology, photos can be printed directly from the camera to any PictBridge-enabled printer, such as the Olympus P-10 Digital Photo Printer, without using a computer. Printing and sharing images has never been easier, and the P-10’s photo lab-quality dye-sublimation printing produces archival-quality prints in rich color.
Delivering Style
The D-595 Zoom has a durable, lightweight polycarbonate body finished in bright silver with a contoured finger grip on the front that makes it easy to hold and shoot pictures with one hand. At a compact size of just 4.1“(W) x 2.4” (H) x 1.4“ (D) and light weight of 5.3 ounces, the D-595 fits comfortably in your pocket so you’ll never have to be without it.
Availability
The D-595 Zoom will be available in March 2005. It includes: (2) AA alkaline batteries, USB cable (Win/Mac), Audio/Video cable, wrist strap, Quick Start Guide, Quick Reference Guide, basic instruction manual, CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master software and advanced instruction manual, warranty card.
U.S. Pricing
D-595 ZOOM Estimated Street Price: $279.99 (U.S.)
The Olympus D-545 (also known as the Olympus C-480) is a basic digital camera with 4 megapixels, a 3x Optical Zoom lens, 1.8inch LCD monitor and 14MB of internal memory. Expect to see it in stores as early as March 2005 at a retail price of $199.99 ($US).
Get the Latest Price on the Olympus D-545
Cameras.co.uk reviews the Olympus C-480 (also known as the D-545) and writes - 'I must admit that the C-480 has its limitations. Weighed against that is the fact that it relatively cheap for a four megapixel camera. Like just about every one of its competitors in this price bracket this camera struggles indoors, but produces decent shots if you are out and about, taking pictures in good light. Like many other cheaper models it also suffers from a sizeable shutter lag and you could find yourself missing that all important picture.'
CNET Reviews the Olympus D-545 Zoom and writes - 'The camera's image quality was mixed. Our test shots showed good color accuracy and saturation levels, as well as a broad dynamic range for shots from an entry-level camera, with ample detail in shadows and highlights. Focus accuracy, however, was uneven. As a result, some of our photos were softer than expected. In the end, you get what you pay for. If you're interested in snapshots from an inexpensive, knockabout camera, the Olympus D-545 Zoom may fit your needs. But if you plan to make 8x10 or larger prints, consider spending an additional $50 to $100 for a more capable model.'
4 Million Pixels of Resolution, 3x Optical Zoom, 19 Automatic Scene Modes and “One Touch” Button Design
The Olympus D-545 Zoom provides first-time digital camera users with all the tools they need to get off and running: a 4.0-megapixel CCD for vibrant images, a 3x optical zoom to bring them close to the action, 19 automatic scene modes for consistently sharp, vivid pictures in a variety of situations, and even a built-in help guide that users can access on the go. Operating the camera is incredibly easy, due in part to its “One Touch” design with separate buttons for shooting, playing back and erasing digital images.
“Ease of use is paramount in the design of our D-series digital cameras,” said Naoki Tai, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “But ease-of-use alone isn’t enough – we want to empower first-time digital camera users to do more than they imagined possible with their digital camera. The D-545’s 3x optical zoom brings subjects closer, 4.0-megapixel image resolution provides crisp, colorful images at large print sizes, and 19 pre-programmed scene modes enable great results in hard-to-capture lighting.”
Designed to Do More
The 3x optical zoom lens (38-114mm equivalent in 35mm photography f2.8 – f4.9) combines with a 4x digital zoom to deliver a total 12x zoom so virtually no photo opportunity is out of reach. Super macro mode makes it possible to focus in on details as tiny as the date on the back of a penny, from as close as 0.8 inches.
The camera’s 4.0-megapixel CCD image sensor combined with Olympus’ exclusive TruePic TURBO™ Image Processor significantly enhances image quality and delivers faster overall processing speeds for rapid startup, shutter release and playback. TruePic TURBO allows the D-545 Zoom to capture information from all 4-million pixels with pixel “micro-smoothing” that delivers clearer and more color-accurate photos. This results in high quality prints that can be cropped and enlarged to 11 x 14 inches and larger.
The inclusion of 19 shooting modes, accessed via a rotating dial and menu button on the back of the camera, makes it easy to capture great images in a variety of lighting situations, such as Sunset, Portrait, and Night Scene. A QuickTime® Movie mode enables users to create short movies of events that can be emailed to family and friends. And a new frame integration function enables users to select various colorful, decorative borders for favorite pictures to print or email to friends.
Designed to be Approachable
The D-545 Zoom features an easy-to-use “One Touch” design with individual buttons for shooting, reviewing and deleting images conveniently located on the body of the camera so that frequently used functions can be easily accessed. Macro mode, Flash mode and a self-timer are located on an arrow pad at your fingertips for quick use while setting up the perfect composition. The camera’s simple menu incorporates a new help guide with images and brief descriptions of each function and shooting mode to help users determine the settings that best suit their shooting situation and purpose. And for added convenience, the D-545 Zoom accepts readily available AA-size alkaline batteries. A battery-saving sleep mode helps users maximize battery life.
OLYMPUS Master software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are searchable by date or keyword in the Calendar View. With one-click editing tools, such as red-eye reduction, images can be touched up before printing or emailing. Online support, templates and other user services are just a mouse-click away.
Connecting the D-545 Zoom to a computer is easy with the USB Auto Connect feature, which connects the camera directly via USB 2.0 cable to a computer and requires no software. And with the power of PictBridge technology, photos can be printed directly from the camera to any PictBridge-enabled printer, such as the Olympus P-10 Digital Photo Printer, without using a computer. Printing and sharing images has never been easier, and the P-10’s photo lab-quality dye-sublimation printing produces archival-quality prints in rich color.
Delivering Style
The D-545 has a sleek, durable, lightweight body and a built-in lens barrier. With its smooth edges and compact size of just 4.2“(W) x 2.2” (H) x 1.4“ (D) and light weight (4.9 ounces), the D-545 fits comfortably in your hand and in your pocket.
Availability
The D-545 Zoom will be available in March 2005. It includes: (2) AA Alkaline Batteries, USB Cable (Win/Mac), Wrist Strap, Quick Start Guide, Quick Reference Guide, Basic Instruction Manual, CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master Software and Advanced Instruction Manual, Warranty Card.
U.S. Pricing
D-545 Zoom Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.)
The Olympus IR-300 and DVD/CD writer is designed as a mini digital photo processing unit that eliminates the need for a PC to process photos. The IR-300 digital camera has a 5.0 megapixel sensor, 2inch LCD, 3x Optical Zoom and magnesium body.
Olympus News Release: OLYMPUS ADDS IR-300 DIGITAL CAMERA AND NEW DVD/CD READER/WRITER TO ITS TOTAL IMAGING SOLUTION
New DVD/CD Reader/Writer Enables Users to Connect a Digital Camera Directly to Preserve Images without Using a PC
Olympus is proud to announce that the new IR-300 Digital Camera and S-DVD-100 DVD/CD Reader/Writer have been added to its Total Imaging Solution family of products. When Olympus first announced the development of the Total Imaging Solution in 2004, it showed consumers a revolutionary way to experience digital photography. Rather than involve a PC in the digital imaging process, the Total Imaging Solution enables users to take, organize, print, and store photos quickly and hassle-free virtually anywhere with compact, high-performance components.
The Olympus Total Imaging Solution line consists of several products sold separately including digital cameras (two models now available including the IR-300 and IR-500), a DVD Reader/Writer, Hard Drive Storage System, and a Digital Photo Printer. All of the components in the Olympus Total Imaging Solution are distinguished by their sleek and pearl white design – projecting an image of premium style, ease-of-use and high performance. Place either IR camera in its cradle and it will work together with any component, or connect components independently with other Olympus products via an adapter.
“The Total Imaging Solution places the digital camera at the heart of the digital imaging solution so users are able to eliminate the often burdensome and intricate computer-based process currently necessary to print, store and share images from a digital camera,” said Richard Campbell, product marketing director, Olympus Imaging America Inc.
“Olympus is breaking barriers in digital imaging with these two latest components for the Total Imaging Solution. The S-DVD-100 DVD Reader/Writer is the first device in the world to allow digital photos to be stored on DVD or CD media directly from a digital camera. And with the addition of the IR-300, we are now offering two innovative cameras in the Total Imaging Solution line.”
Burn Images Direct to Disk without Using a PC
For the first time ever, digital photos can be stored on DVD or CD media directly by connecting an IR series digital camera to the S-DVD-100 DVD Reader/Writer, and without involving a PC. This is ideal for people who are not computer-savvy, and DVDs are great for storing and sharing digital images because of their high storage capacities, long storage life, and portability. Just take photos with the IR-300, connect it to the S-DVD-100, burn images to disk, and send your friends home with a DVD of images.
New 5.0-Megapixel Digital Camera Added to Total Imaging Solution
The latest digital camera to join the Total Imaging Solution family is the IR-300 with an ultra-slim 0.87-inch thick durable die-cast magnesium body. It features a 2-inch anti-glare LCD for easy viewing even in bright sunlight, 5.0-megapixels, a 3x optical zoom lens (f3.3 - f4.0, 38mm – 114mm equivalent), and 12x total combined optical-digital zoom.
The camera offers a choice of 19 selectable shooting modes for photography in a wide range of conditions. Simply select a shooting mode and the camera is ready to photograph the situation at hand with the optimum aperture, shutter speed, white balance, color saturation and flash setting. In QuickTime® Movie mode, a camera shake function has been incorporated to reduce image unsteadiness and allow more carefree movie shooting.
The Album Function on the IR-300 allows users to organize images into photo albums on the camera’s xD-Picture Card from the images taken by the camera, or even those transferred to it from a computer. Users can create up to 12 separate albums of 100 images, sort them as they chose, and access them conveniently. The new built-in Calendar Function automatically organizes and recalls images by specific dates. If users desire to transfer images to a computer, they can do so with the Auto-Connect USB 2.0 full speed that does not require software drivers (for most computers/operating systems), enabling hassle-free, full-speed image downloads.
Other Components of Olympus Total Imaging Solution
Beyond the S-DVD-100 DVD Reader/Writer and IR-300 digital camera, other components compliment the Olympus Total Imaging Solution and work with each other or with any camera with USB Mass Storage Class ability.
S-HD-100 Hard Drive Storage System:
By connecting the IR-300 or IR-500 to the compact S-HD-100, an astonishing 40,000 4.0-megapixel-class images (approx.) can be stored on its 40-gigabyte hard disk drive. This is a great convenience for users who want to free up space on their media cards. All they have to do is connect their camera to the S-HD-100 and backup images from the media card.
The S-HD-100 is equipped with a built-in CPU that enables image file management functions. For example, when downloading images from an IR series digital camera, the S-HD-100 checks each image to see if it has been downloaded previously and only downloads the images that are new.
The S-HD-100’s handheld size and light weight make it extremely portable. The hard drive can be easily connected to a computer when necessary to transfer, edit and back-up images.
P-S100 Printer:
The IR-300 or IR-500 connects directly to the P-S100, a new dye-sublimation photo printer designed to work with or without any connection to a computer, for instant printing. It prints 4 x 6-inch photo lab quality prints in 88 seconds (approx.). The P-S100 is compact, sleek, and measures a mere 6.6in. (W) x 2.8in. (H) x 5.7in. (D), and weighs just 35.4 ounces.
The P-S100 comes with 50 sheets of paper in the paper tray and ribbon cartridge so you can begin printing right away. Each print is sealed with a light and moisture-resistant over-coating, which ensures that prints retain their beauty for a long time. Vivid and beautiful print quality is achieved with 16.77 million vibrant colors.
The P-S100 Printer features PictBridge™ technology so that any PictBridge-enabled camera may connect to it via USB cable and start printing right away.
IR-500 Digital Camera:
In addition to the IR-300, Olympus also offers the IR-500 with 4.0-megapixels, a 2.8x optical zoom lens (40mm – 112mm equivalent), 30x total zoom including digital zoom, and an f2.9-f4.8 aperture range. The IR-500 is the first Olympus camera to feature a 360-degree rotating (front to back) LCD display. By rotating the display, users can view their subjects when taking images from a variety of angles. The multi-swing display also ensures portability and protection by covering the lens and the LCD monitor when in its closed position. The LCD monitor, at a generous 2.5 inches, enhances still image and QuickTime® movie viewing pleasure. The high-contrast 210,000-pixel anti-glare LCD is designed for enhanced clarity and easy viewing even in bright outdoor light.
Availability
The IR-300 and S-HD-100 will be available in April 2005, S-DVD-100 will be available in May 2005, and the IR-500 and P-S100 will be available in February 2005. The IR-300 comes with a Cradle, a Li- 40B Li Ion Rechargeable Battery, A/C Adapter, Strap, Audio/Video Cable, Camera WIN/Mac USB Cable, Quick Start Guide, Basic Instruction Manual, Warranty Card, and Camera Advanced Manual. The S-DVD-100 comes with AC adapter, Power Code, USB cable, User's Manual, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card, and CD-ROM (OLYMPUS Master, packet writing software).
U.S. Pricing
IR-300 Estimated Street Price: $349.99 (U.S.)
S-DVD-100 Estimated Street Price: $399.99 (U.S.)
IR-500 Estimated Street Price: $349.99 (U.S.)
S-HD-100 hard disk drive storage device Estimated Street Price: $299.99 (U.S.)
P-S100 digital photo printer Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.)
PA7 adapter for connecting USB mass storage camera to S-DVD-100/S-HD-100: $29.99 (U.S.)
KP16 cable for connecting S-DVD-100/S-HD-100 to P-S100: $ 19.99(U.S.)
Olympus Press Release: Range of ZUIKO DIGITAL Zoom Four Thirds lenses set to expand
Olympus is today announcing the development of three new FourThirds standard, professional-grade interchangeable lenses for the Olympus E-System. Each of the lenses boasts exceptionally wide, fixed apertures and photographers can look forward to shooting with increased versatility and efficiency.
The ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-35mm (35mm equiv: 28-70mm) 1:2.0 and ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 35-100mm (35mm equiv: 70-200mm) 1:2.0* are understood to be the world’s first+ fully interchangeable lenses to feature an aperture of 1:2.0 across their entire zooming range. These two lenses give photographers the freedom to apply a 1:2.0 aperture from a wide-angle focal length of 14mm (35mm equiv: 28mm) to telephoto 100mm (35mm equiv: 200mm).
The ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 90-250mm (35mm equiv: 180-500mm) 1:2.8 also provides high brightness right up to its ultra-telephoto extreme focal length of 250mm (35mm equiv: 500mm). The power of the lens will make it especially attractive to exponents of sports or nature photography where fast framing is often necessary.
Together with the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 7-14mm (35mm equiv: 14-28mm) 1:4.0 lens, due to arrive in March 2005, Olympus will soon offer a comprehensive range of fixed-aperture zoom lenses to meet professional specifications, extending from an ultra-wide-angle 7mm (35mm equiv: 14mm) to ultra-telephoto 250mm (35mm equiv: 38-114mm).
All three lenses are splash and dust-proof and utilise Super ED or ED elements, ensuring that chromatic aberration is all but eliminated to deliver only the finest image quality with unparalleled sharpness and definition. Furthermore, photographers can use the shallow depth of field resulting from the wide aperture to deliberately blur the background thereby emphasising the subject.
The Olympus E-System is the world’s first digital SLR system to be based on the FourThirds Standard jointly developed by Olympus and Kodak. This professional system has been designed exclusively for digital photography. It currently comprises the Olympus E-1 and Olympus E-300 SLR bodies plus a range of interchangeable lenses and other accessories. For more details, please visit http://www.olympus-pro.co.uk
All ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses are designed to maximise the performance of digital SLRs based on the FourThirds Standard. This enables full cross-manufacturer lens interchangeability among camera systems applying the standard, as well as the use of lenses that are small and light but also have a large aperture. Near telecentric optics ensure images have perfect colour, clarity and brightness from the centre to the periphery of the frame. The lenses’ high resolving power makes sure the image sensor obtains the detail it needs to achieve its full potential.
ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-35mm (35mm equiv: 28-70mm) 1:2.0
With a zooming range spanning 14-35mm (35mm equiv: 28-70mm), the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-35mm is set to become the brightest all-round interchangeable lens available+. Boasting a 1:2.0 aperture across its entire focal range, it offers photographers exceptional flexibility to boost their effectiveness while on assignment.
Preliminary features
· Ultra-bright 1:2.0 fixed aperture
· Super ED and ED glass elements for absolute minimum chromatic aberration
· Splash and dust proof construction to enhance reliability
· 2.5x wide-angle zoom performance 14-35mm (35mm equiv: 28-70mm)
ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 35-100mm (35mm equiv: 70-200mm) 1:2.0
Increasing the focal length but maintaining the aperture at an impressive 1:2.0 over the entire range, the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED is the bright choice for the professional photographer. Together with the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-35mm, a zooming range of 14-100mm (35mm equiv: 28-200mm) is available at an unprecedented, exceptionally fast fixed aperture of 1:2.0.
Preliminary features
· Ultra-bright 1:2.0 fixed aperture
· Super ED and ED glass elements for absolute minimum chromatic aberration
· Splash and dust proof construction to enhance reliability
· 2.9x zoom performance 35-100mm (35mm equiv: 70-200mm)
ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 90-250mm (35mm equiv: 180-500mm) 1:2.8
Even at the full, ultra-telephoto 250mm focal length (35mm equiv: 500mm), the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 90-250mm (35mm equiv: 180-500mm) maintains its bright 1:2.8 aperture. As such, sports, nature and other photographers that rely on fast framing will find particular favour with this lens.
Preliminary features
· Ultra-bright 1:2.8 fixed aperture
· 2.8x telephoto to ultra-telephoto zoom performance 90-250mm (35mm equiv: 180-500mm)
· ED glass elements for absolute minimum chromatic aberration
· Splash and dust proof construction to enhance reliability
ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 7-14mm (35mm equiv: 14-28mm) 1:4.0
Designed for use by pros, the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 7-14mm 1:4.0 affords photographers with ultra-wide-angle shooting capabilities to enable extraordinarily expressive compositions. With a focal length beginning at merely 7mm (35mm equiv: 14mm) it offers a 114° angle of view – currently the world’s widest for digital zoom lenses+. The minimum working distance (from object to front lens) is just 10cm, allowing exaggerated perspectives.
Main features
· Ultra-wide-angle performance 7-14mm (35mm equiv: 14-28mm) 1:4.0
· 10cm minimum working distance (distance from object to front lens) for expanded shooting capabilities
· Large aperture lens combined with world’s first double-sided ED glass-moulded aspherical camera lens of greater than 50mm diameter
· Two Super ED and two ED glass elements for absolute minimum chromatic aberration
· Multi-coating process to significantly minimise ghosting and flaring
· Splash and dust proof construction to enhance reliability
The whole range of ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses now runs from 7 to 300mm (35mm equiv: 14-600mm) :
· Available now! ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 7-14mm (14-28mm) 1:4.0
· NEW! ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-35mm (28-70mm) 1:2.0
(available from Autumn 2005)
· NEW! ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 35-100mm (70-200mm) 1:2.0
(available from Autumn 2005)
· NEW! ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 90-250mm (180-500mm) 1:2.8
(available from Autumn 2005)
· ZUIKO DIGITAL 11-22mm (22-44mm) 1:2.8-3.5
· ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-45mm (28-90mm) 1:3.5-5.6
· ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm (28-108mm) 1:2.8-3.5
· ZUIKO DIGITAL 40-150mm (80-300mm) 1:3.5-4.5
· ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50-200mm (100-400mm) 1:2.8-3.5
· ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50mm (100mm) 1:2.0 Macro
· ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 150mm (300mm) 1:2.0
· ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 300mm (600mm) 1:2.8
Nb: Specifications are subject to change without notice
Olympus News Release: Olympus Announces The World’s Fastest Fixed Aperture Zoom Lenses Ever Designed For Digital Photography
Two Lenses Deliver an Unprecedented f2.0 Aperture through Entire Zoom Range, Third Lens Delivers Amazing f2.8 Aperture Over its 90-250mm (180-500mm) Range
Melville, New York, February 17, 2005 – Olympus today announces the breakthrough development of the world’s fastest “Designed for Digital” interchangeable fixed-aperture wide zoom lenses. Designed for use with Olympus E-System digital SLR cameras, including the E-1 and EVOLT E-300, these three exciting new Digital Specific™ lenses – Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm f2.0, Zuiko Digital ED 35-100mm f2.0 and Zuiko Digital ED 90-250mm f2.8 – feature fixed apertures through the entire zoom range to offer the most advanced and fastest zooms of their kind available anywhere today. The new lenses compliment the current line of Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses™ offered by Olympus and establish the line as one of the largest 100% designed for digital lens systems offered by a manufacturer to date. These three lenses are due to go on sale in fourth quarter of 2005.
“These three new lenses represent a technological milestone by maintaining fixed apertures through their entire zoom ranges. And because they are Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses, they are designed specifically for digital capture with smart technology that delivers edge-to-edge sharpness with reduced distortion and shading,” said John Knaur, senior marketing manager at Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Together with the Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f4.0 Lens available in March 2005, these three new lenses will create a series of fixed-aperture zoom lenses designed to deliver optimal image quality that meets professional specifications and covers a broad range of focal lengths, from ultra-wide-angle to ultra-telephoto.”
Lenses Are the World’s First to Offer f2.0 Over Full Zoom Range
The Zuiko Digital 14-35mm f2.0 (28mm –70mm equiv.) and the Zuiko Digital ED 35-100mm f2.0 (70mm-200mm equiv.) will be the first lenses in the world to feature an aperture of f2.0 over the full zoom range. The goal of their design is to maximize the full potential of the mobility of the lens zoom range while making the most of the brightness offered at f2.0. In combination, these two lenses will give photographers the freedom to use the f2.0 aperture over focal lengths ranging from wide-angle 14mm (28mm equiv.) to telephoto 100mm (200mm equiv.).
These two lenses use Super ED or ED lens elements to allow each wavelength of light to strike the sensor evenly and at the same time eliminate chromatic aberration to the maximum possible extent at aperture f2.0 and deliver excellent edge-to-edge image quality with superior sharpness, definition, and color fidelity.
Long Zoom Ideal for Sports & Nature Photography
The Zuiko Digital ED 90-250mm f2.8 Lens features a wide aperture of f2.8 over its entire ultra-telephoto focal length up to 250mm (500mm equivalent). This alone allows photographers freedom to shoot in more varied lighting situations while still maintaining excellent sharpness and definition. The power of the optical zoom range on this lens enables users to instantaneously obtain optimal framing in sports and nature photography, where positioning for shots is often subject to constraints. This lens also uses ED glass lenses for its optical system to eliminate chromatic aberration to the greatest degree at f2.8 and to maintain sharpness, color, and tonal definition throughout the zoom range.
Versatile Rugged Design Standard
All three lenses will employ separate zoom and focus rings so that photographers can easily maintain focus on their subjects while utilizing control of creative composition with a separate zoom ring.
The lenses will also offer a splash proof design similar to other Zuiko Digital Specific pro series lenses. This rugged design standard supports photography under the severe conditions in which many professional photographers work by incorporating special seals in the lens construction to protect the lens from moisture and dust. Reinforced metal lens mounts on each lens offer added support when attaching the lenses to E-System camera bodies.
“The addition of these three new Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses reaffirms Olympus’ commitment to bringing the highest level of technology and performance to the pro arena,” said Knaur. “We are planning for several lens announcements each year for both consumer and professional applications in order to meet the demands and higher standards that digital photography requires.”
The entire line of Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses comply with the Four Thirds System to be perfectly matched to the imager so light strikes the sensor directly, ensuring rich, accurate colors, sharp contrasts and bright images even at the edges. With the addition of these three lenses, the Zuiko system will offer optical ranges from an ultra-wide-angle of 7mm (14mm equivalent in 35mm film photography) to ultra-telephoto 300mm (600mm equivalent).
Availability
The Olympus Zuiko Digital 14-35mm f2.0, Zuiko Digital ED 35-100mm f2.0 and Zuiko Digital ED 90-250mm f2.8 Lenses will be available forth quarter of 2005. Lens pricing and specifications will be announced at a future date.
Concord Camera Corp. Introduces EasyShot 820z
8 Megapixel Digital Camera Offers Key Features, such as One-Touch ImageEnhance(TM), Extra-Large 2.5-Inch LCD & Direct Print Capabilities
EasyShot 820z - 8 Megapixel
Scheduled for introduction at the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2005, the EasyShot 820z, will be the first 8 Megapixel digital camera under $250. The EasyShot 820z features a super-sharp 8 Megapixel CCD sensor, 12X zoom (3X optical/4X digital) and large 2.4-inch color LCD. The camera utilizes SD memory cards, but for times when no card is available, it also has 16MB of internal memory. The EasyShot 820z takes MPEG-4 movies with sound for up to 30 frames per second and will be available in Gun Metal Gray with metallic silver accents at a price of $249.99.
Concord Camera Corp., a leader in award-winning, high-quality, affordably-priced image capture products, announced the unveiling of the new EasyShot line at the Photo Marketing Association Trade Show PMA on February 20th, 2005. The ultimate line of family-friendly digital cameras, EasyShot was designed to offer unsurpassed ease of use, advanced features at popular prices, and an exciting new look and feel that family memory keepers and first-time digital camera users will prefer.
Select EasyShot digital cameras are packed with family-friendly features, such as:
-- One-Touch Image Enhancement- Offered on select EasyShot digital cameras, Concord's exclusive one-touch ImageEnhance(TM) feature provides hassle-free in-camera image correction that instantly improves poor color and lighting situations to achieve the best possible photo.
-- Extra Large LCD Screens - EasyShot digital cameras feature extra large 2.4“ and 2.5” LCDs, enabling easy photo viewing for the whole family.
-- Direct Print Capability - Select EasyShot cameras will offer the capability of printing directly from the camera, making it easy for users to print and share photos.
-- Ruggedized non-slip Rubber Base - Currently offered on the 510z, the rubberized base keeps the camera from sliding on smooth surfaces, and makes it easier to hold while taking pictures by providing a more secure surface for fingers to grip.
Concord Camera Corp. Introduces EasyShot 500z
5 Megapixel Digital Camera Offer Key Features, such as One-Touch ImageEnhance(TM), Extra-Large 2.5-Inch LCD & Direct Print Capabilities
EasyShot 500z - Popular Priced 5 Megapixel
The EasyShot 500z is a 5 Megapixel CCD, 12x zoom (3X optical/4X digital) digital camera, with a unique voice recording feature, that enables the recording of voice memos on still images. The EasyShot 500z comes with a 2“ LCD and takes MPEG-4 movies with sound up to 30 frames per second. Users can also choose from 6 preset scene capture modes: portrait, landscape, sports, night, backlit and macro. The EasyShot 500z is available in stylish Gun Metal Gray with silver accents and will have direct print capability. The EasyShot 500z is priced at $179.99 and is expected to be available in April 2005.
Concord Camera Corp., a leader in award-winning, high-quality, affordably-priced image capture products, announced the unveiling of the new EasyShot line at the Photo Marketing Association Trade Show PMA on February 20th, 2005. The ultimate line of family-friendly digital cameras, EasyShot was designed to offer unsurpassed ease of use, advanced features at popular prices, and an exciting new look and feel that family memory keepers and first-time digital camera users will prefer.
Select EasyShot digital cameras are packed with family-friendly features, such as:
-- One-Touch Image Enhancement- Offered on select EasyShot digital cameras, Concord's exclusive one-touch ImageEnhance(TM) feature provides hassle-free in-camera image correction that instantly improves poor color and lighting situations to achieve the best possible photo.
-- Extra Large LCD Screens - EasyShot digital cameras feature extra large 2.4“ and 2.5” LCDs, enabling easy photo viewing for the whole family.
-- Direct Print Capability - Select EasyShot cameras will offer the capability of printing directly from the camera, making it easy for users to print and share photos.
-- Ruggedized non-slip Rubber Base - Currently offered on the 510z, the rubberized base keeps the camera from sliding on smooth surfaces, and makes it easier to hold while taking pictures by providing a more secure surface for fingers to grip.
Concord Camera Corp. Introduces EasyShot 510z
5 Megapixel Digital Camera Offer Key Features, such as One-Touch ImageEnhance(TM), Extra-Large 2.5-Inch LCD & Direct Print Capabilities
Concord Camera Corp., a leader in award-winning, high-quality, affordably-priced image capture products, announced the unveiling of the new EasyShot line at the Photo Marketing Association Trade Show PMA on February 20th, 2005. The ultimate line of family-friendly digital cameras, EasyShot was designed to offer unsurpassed ease of use, advanced features at popular prices, and an exciting new look and feel that family memory keepers and first-time digital camera users will prefer.
Select EasyShot digital cameras are packed with family-friendly features, such as:
-- One-Touch Image Enhancement- Offered on select EasyShot digital cameras, Concord's exclusive one-touch ImageEnhance(TM) feature provides hassle-free in-camera image correction that instantly improves poor color and lighting situations to achieve the best possible photo.
-- Extra Large LCD Screens - EasyShot digital cameras feature extra large 2.4“ and 2.5” LCDs, enabling easy photo viewing for the whole family.
-- Direct Print Capability - Select EasyShot cameras will offer the capability of printing directly from the camera, making it easy for users to print and share photos.
-- Ruggedized non-slip Rubber Base - Currently offered on the 510z, the rubberized base keeps the camera from sliding on smooth surfaces, and makes it easier to hold while taking pictures by providing a more secure surface for fingers to grip.
EasyShot 510z - Slim and Stylish 5 Megapixel
The EasyShot 510z is a slim and stylish 5 Megapixel CCD digital camera and the first to feature Concord's advanced ImageEnhance(TM) button feature for instant image correction directly on the camera. It offers 12X zoom (3X optical/4X digital), features a large 2.5“ LTPS LCD, and comes with rechargeable lithium batteries. The EasyShot 510z takes MPEG-4 movies with sound up to 30 frames per second and has 16MB of internal memory. The camera's all metal housing is ergonomical with an exciting new look and feel for ease-of-use and is accented with a ruggedized non-skid rubber base. The camera will be available in two stylish colors: Gun Metal Gray with silver accents and Aqua blue with silver accents, is priced at $229 and is expected to be available in October 2005.
The Concord 5042 is a new 5 megapixel digital camera from Concord that comes in under the magical $100 (US) mark. It has a 1.5inch LCD, 4x digital zoom and shoots AVI movies at 15 fps.
Concord News Release:Concord Camera Corp. Breaks $100 Price Barrier With World's First 5 Megapixel Super-Slim Digital Camera for Only $99
Concord Camera Corp., a leader in award-winning, high-quality, affordably-priced cameras, announced today that it will introduce the Concord 5042, the world's first 5 megapixel super-slim digital camera priced at only $99.00, at next week's Photo Marketing Association Trade Show (PMA) in Orlando, Florida. The Concord 5042 packs a powerful 5 megapixel sensor into a ultra-slim design, that offers consumers more pixels for the price than ever before.
Concord 5042 - 5 Megapixels and fits in a shirt pocket for only $99.00
Priced at only $99.00, the Concord 5042 is a 5 megapixel digital camera that features 4x digital zoom, has a 1.5“ color LCD, and takes AVI movies with sound of up to 15 frames per second. Ultra-thin, with a width of only .8 inches and height of 2.2 inches, the Concord 5042 will be the digital camera of choice for hip, on-the-go consumers who demand high-quality digital photos. The Concord 5042 utilizes easily accessible SD cards, but has the added convenience of 16MB of internal memory when an SD card is not available. The Concord 5042 uses 2 AAA alkaline batteries and is expected to be available in the first quarter of calendar 2005 in Gun Metal Gray at a price of $99.00.
”With the introduction of these super-slim cameras, Concord has once again revolutionized the popular price segment of the digital camera market, offering millions of first-time buyers and family memory keepers greater performance, stylish designs and more pixels for the price than ever before,“ said Jeffrey Mandell, VP of Worldwide Marketing, Concord Camera Corp.
The Concord 5040 is a new 5 megapixel digital camera from Concord that is priced at $129. It has a 4x digital zoom, shoots MPEG-4 movies at 30 fps and has a 1.8inch LCD screen.
Concord News Release: Concord Camera Corp. Breaks $100 Price Barrier With World's First 5 Megapixel Super-Slim Digital Camera for Only $99
Concord Camera Corp., a leader in award-winning, high-quality, affordably-priced cameras, announced today that it will introduce the Concord 5042, the world's first 5 megapixel super-slim digital camera priced at only $99.00, at next week's Photo Marketing Association Trade Show (PMA) in Orlando, Florida. The Concord 5042 and higher performance Concord 5040 at $129.00, pack a powerful 5 megapixel sensor into ultra-slim designs, that offer consumers more pixels for the price than ever before.
Concord 5040 - Slim All Metal Housing, Stylish Colors, and affordably priced at $129.99
Priced at only $129.99, the Concord 5040 is a 5 Megapixel digital camera that features a 4x digital zoom, takes high-quality MPEG -4 movies with sound for up to 30 frames per second and has a large 1.8“ color LCD screen. Designed to offer the ultimate in portability, the Concord 5040 is ultra-thin, with a width of less than 1 inch and height of 2.2 inches, so it can be taken anywhere and easily carried in a small purse or pocket. Sleek and trendy, the Concord 5040's all metal body is available in a variety of fashionable colors including: Papaya Orange, Wine Red, Aqua Blue, Royal Blue, Champagne Gold, and Silver. It uses 2 AAA rechargeable batteries, and comes bundled with a battery charger valued at $15.00 alone. The camera uses ultra compact SD cards, but provides the added convenience of 16MB of internal memory for picture taking when no card is available. The Concord 5040 is expected to be available in April 2005 at a price of $129.99. For more information, see the web site: http://www.concord-camera.com.
The Canon Powershot SD400 (also known as the IXUS 50) is a new 5 megapixel digital camera from Canon just announced. It features a 2 inch LCD and a 3x Optical Zoom lens. Learn more about the Canon Powershot SD400/IXUS 50 from the following Canon Press Release announcing it and the SD500
Get the Latest Price on the “Canon Powershot SD400 5MP Digital Elph Camera with 3x Optical Zoom”
Lets Go Digital has a good review of the Canon IXUS 50 and writes - 'The user friendliness stands out, the camera looks beautiful, a great design and a superb finishing touch. The concept of the IXUS series of digital cameras seems to have passed with flying colours. The image quality is excellent and the good thing about it is that it happens automatically. Although the exposure is automatic it is still possible to adjust ISO sensitivity and white balance to your own desires. Besides that, the Canon Digital IXUS 50 lets you set the shutter speed manually. '
Steves Digicams has a review of the Canon Powershot SD400 Digital ELPH and writes - 'The SD400's image quality is excellent. It produced well saturated and accurate colors, and consistently good exposures. The ISO sensitivity is adjustable from 50, 100, 200, 400 or the camera can control it Automatically. Noise is absent from ISO 50 shots. At ISO 100, noise is detectable in shadow areas, and at ISO 200 noise becomes noticeable throughout the image. At ISO 400 noise becomes more prominent in highlight areas, but the images are usable. If you shoot night pictures you'll appreciate the �Long Shutter� option that gives you access to shutter speeds ranging from 1 to 15 seconds. To insure the best possible image, Noise Reduction is automatically applied when the shutter speed is 1.3 second or longer. In addition to an excellent automatic white balance there are presets for sunny, cloudy, incandescent, fluorescent, fluorescent H (daylight temperature) and a one-push custom setting for use with a white or grey card.'
CNET Reviews has a review of the Canon PowerShot SD400 and writes:
'This 5-megapixel addition to the Canon PowerShot Digital Elph line has more in common with its 4-megapixel SD300 sibling than it does with the top-of-the-line 7-megapixel SD500. Instead of the slightly larger, curvier body found in its higher-resolution stablemate, this Elph has the same boxy ultracompact frame as the SD300 and shares virtually every other spec except resolution. What you get for your $50 extra is improved image quality--and that might be enough.
While we faulted the SD300 for its average image quality, we were impressed by the performance, unrelenting burst capabilities, and great battery life that are equally evident in this upgrade. If you're looking for an ultracompact snapshot camera and don't need manual controls, lots of scene modes, or a powerful electronic flash, the marginally better image quality of this unit may lure you into the Canon fold.'
DP Review has a comprehensive review of the 5.0 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Camera and recommends - 'The SD400 is a fast, easy to use, well-specified camera that can genuinely claim to be pocket-sized, and it produces images that - whilst by no means perfect - are sharp, clean and colorful, and it does so with the minimum fuss. It's so small, and is so enjoyable to handle and use that you cannot help but take it with you wherever you go, something you might hesitate to do with a larger camera. It's also nice to be able to report that there is a noticeable (albeit small) image quality advantage to be had by buying the SD400 over the less expensive 4MP SD300.'
Canon Builds Cutting-Edge Custom Color Controls, High-Resolution Imaging, High-Speed Transfers and Fast Frame Video Into two Sleek & Stylish Pocket and Purse Sized Package
It's true...the two newest Digital ELPH(R) models in Canon's perennially popular PowerShot(R) compact camera series - the PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH and the PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH cameras - not only capture brilliant high resolution images and transfer them in a flash, but also allow the user to customize their color on the spot, removing the need for time consuming computer retouching. Both new PowerShot Digital ELPH cameras will be showcased at PMA 2005, February 20 - 23 (Canon Booth #3503), in Orlando, Fla.
Form, Function and Fun
While the new line-leading 7.1 megapixel PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH camera with its sleek new curved metallic design and its 5.0 megapixel companion model PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH camera continue Canon's tradition of providing top-tier imaging technology in a ultra- slim, ultra-compact, easy-to-use package, these two models heighten the photo fun factor as well.
“The Digital ELPH series remains the epitome of high-quality camera design in the consumer camera market, often imitated but never equaled,” said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ). “We know that though their sleek and slim styling consistently captures consumers' attention and affection, their fashionable form most assuredly follows one primary function: excellence in imaging. Ultimately, it is the high-quality pictures captured, printed and shared with near effortless ease that is the cornerstone of Digital ELPH cameras' appeal.”
New Design Lines for the Top of the Line
At first glance, it is clear that PowerShot SD500 model is no ordinary Digital ELPH camera. Departing from the linear style that has characterized ELPH model cameras from their very beginning, the body lines of this new entry have not simply been refined, they have been redefined and redesigned.
Dubbed the “Perpetual Curve Design” by Canon engineers, the body shaping method reduces unevenness and tends to fit the hand more comfortably, all while accommodating the size demands of the camera's internal components. A gradual bulge from the grip side towards the flash side achieves a physically thin and visually slim appearance from the front, while the SD500 Digital ELPH camera's newly trimmed down side panels add to the camera's ultra thin appearance. The camera's stainless steel case is silver gray in color with a high-brightness coating applied to heighten the effect created by the elegant, continuous curve of the body.
The PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH Camera
Though the five megapixel PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH camera retains much of the look and feel of its predecessors, it has more features in common with the 7.1 megapixel SD500 model. Chief among the differences is of course the number of megapixels on the camera's CCD imaging sensor. The SD400 model also has a 35-105mm lens (35mm equivalent) on its 3x optical/4x digital UA zoom lens, which is slightly shorter in focal length than its senior sibling and it has a shutter a top shutter speed of up to 1/1500th of a second compared to up to 1/2000th.
Both models also feature a wide variety of shooting modes to optimize the camera's performance based on user preferences or shooting conditions. These modes include Auto, Manual, Digital Macro, My Colors, Stitch Assist, Special Scene, and Movie. The Special Scene mode allows users of both cameras to achieve optimum results in popular picture-taking situations including Underwater, Indoor, Kids and Pets, and Night Snapshot. The SD500 model also includes individual settings for Foliage, Snow, Beach, and Fireworks. Optional accessories for the SD500 digital camera include Waterproof Case WP-DC70, rated to a depth of 40 meters (approximately 130 feet). All Weather Case AW-DC30, rated up to 3 meters (approximately 10 feet), is available for the SD400 digital camera.
Petite and Powerful
The PowerShot SD500 and PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH cameras are also appointed with a full-range of movie features including a built-in microphone and speaker. Among the improvements is the ability to use the digital zoom while shooting movies in the high-resolution 640 x 480 30 fps VGA mode. Since the digital zoom does not involve any mechanical movement, zooming can be performed without creating any additional ambient noise that could be picked up by the cameras' built in microphone. The cameras also offer a “Fast Frame Rate” of 60 frames per second for a maximum of one-minute (at a resolution of up to 320 x 240 pixels), ideal for analyzing a golf swing or a tennis stroke using one of the supplied slow-motion playback settings. The compact movie mode - designed with e-mail attachments in mind - captures a maximum of three minutes of recording at 15 fps and a resolution of 160 x 120 pixels.
A new Night Display Function automatically brightens the subject in order to make framing a shot in dusk, night or other lowlight situations easier while the cameras' large 2-inch, 118,000 pixel LCD monitor features a backlight that combines lower power consumption with high brightness that improves the visibility of the LCD monitor even in bright surroundings. The monitor also incorporates a “quick bright LCD” function that temporarily boosts the brightness to its maximum level with nothing more than a one-second touch of the display button. Press the button a second time for one second and the monitor returns to its original brightness level.
DIGIC(R) II - Hi-Speed USB 2.0
True to the tradition of the Digital ELPH camera series, both the PowerShot SD500 and the PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH cameras have many of the latest advances in Canon technology including the proprietary DIGIC II Imaging processor that enhances picture definition, vibrancy and quality, while helping increase the speed of the cameras' startup, autofocus, shutter response and playback as well as the image processing speed. The pace of image transfer is accelerated (when used with a USB 2.0 compatible computer, printer or other peripheral) thanks to the inclusion of a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port, the first time this feature has appeared in the PowerShot series. The USB 2.0 port is backwards compatible (at no increased speed) with computers featuring standard USB 1.1 connections.
Other New Features of Interest
Both new Digital ELPH cameras incorporate a host of improvements that contribute to their overall high quality level and functionality. For example, the Intelligent Orientation Sensor not only rotates vertical shots automatically, it now wakes up the cameras from sleep mode by detecting movement when the camera is picked up. A new Custom Timer function lets users shoot up to 10 consecutive frames automatically at the end of a preset delay, which can range from 1 to 30 seconds. The Review function has also been improved with the addition of several preset intervals plus a “Hold” function, and Playback mode now has the ability to locate captured images quickly according to shooting date or file type (JPEG or Movie).
In addition to the rich feature set both cameras have to offer they both also feature Canon's new “My Color” technology. Now even the most casual picture-taker can easily opt for verdant valleys of greener greens, juicy apples of redder red, skies and seas of bluer- blue and even add or reduce a little tan to the skin tone as they are shooting. Whether the desired effect is to make the color “more real” or surreal, these digital dynamos are capable of capturing and saving both the original still image and the enhanced color versions as separate files on the camera's SD Memory Card.
PictBridge Compliant
Both the PowerShot SD500 and SD400 Digital ELPH models support all current PictBridge functions. Established as the global industry standard for direct printing from any PictBridge compliant camera to any PictBridge compliant printer regardless of brand, these functions include single image prints, several selected images per print, as well as more advanced PictBridge setup features including print cropping, quantity selection, date imprinting, Layout print (fixed size), Layout print (N-up) and File Name imprinting.
Print and Share Function Plus Powerful New Software
The PowerShot SD500 and SD400 Digital ELPH models both feature Canon's popular Print and Share function, which enables one-touch direct printing or direct transfer via PTP (Picture Transfer Protocol) to compatible personal computers using the supplied USB interface cable. New in this generation of cameras is the ability to download images directly to Mac OS X (10.1.5 and higher) as well as Windows(R) XP operating systems. The new cameras are also supplied with the latest versions of Canon's powerful yet easy-to-use software applications, including ZoomBrowser EX 5.1 (for Windows) and ImageBrowser 5.1 (for Mac OS X), as well as PhotoRecord (Windows) for high-quality layout printing, and PhotoStitch (Windows/Mac) for panoramas. ArcSoft PhotoStudio is also supplied for advanced photo editing functions.
Pricing and Availability
The PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH and PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH will be supplied with a wrist strap and interface cables for USB and A/V, as well as a 32MB or 16MB SD card respectively, a rechargeable lithium ion battery pack and charger, software, and user manuals. The PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH Camera will be available in April and the PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH will be available in March for estimated street prices of $399.99*, and $499.99* respectively.
Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot SD400
The Canon Powershot SD500 (also known as the IXUS 700) is a new 7.1 megapixel digital camera from Canon just announced. It comes complete with a 1/1.8inch type CCD image sensor, 2 inch LCD and a 3x Optical Zoom lens.
Buy the “Canon Powershot SD500 7MP Digital Elph Camera with 3x Optical Zoom”
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD500
Digital Camera Info has a first impressions review of the Canon PowerShot SD500 and writes - 'The 7.1-megapixel Canon PowerShot SD500 follows in the tradition of the Digital ELPH line with its compact size and stylish look. However, this model gets a slight makeover with its rounded edges. The added comfort is a welcome feature to the ELPH series, which is known for its flat, sharp surfaces. The SD500 also adds other features that are debuting in the compact line. A custom self-timer lets users choose a time delay between 1-30 seconds. A series of digital color filters, as well as color accents and even a color swap are available.' - Also read their full review of the Canon Powershot SD500
DCRP reviews the Canon PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH and writes - 'With the PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH, Canon has delivered an excellent ultra-compact, high resolution digital camera that's one of the best out there. It takes excellent quality 7.1 Megapixel photos that rival those from the higher-end PowerShot G6, though purple fringing and corner softness are issue (though minor, thankfully). While it's a bit chunkier than the other SD series cameras, the SD500 is still a very small metal camera that can go anywhere with ease. Build quality is very good, save for the usual cheap plastic door over the memory card and battery compartment. The SD500 has a nicely sized 2.0� LCD display that gains up in low light situations (finally!). I'm also glad to see that Canon has done away with the optical viewfinder on the SD cameras.'
PC Magazine reviews the Canon PowerShot SD500 Digital Elph and writes - 'The SD500 is a versatile, accurate, fun 7MP compact camera that performed very well on our tests and will appeal to a broad section of shooters. We like it so much, we've awarded it our Editors' Choice.
Pros: Quick performer. Excellent image quality. Unique My Color feature. Good ergonomics. Sleek and attractive.
Cons: Macro mode did not produce good results. Flash had some problems in backlit situations.'
CNET Reviews has a review of the Canon PowerShot SD500 and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot SD500 is in many ways a lovely camera and in many ways a frustrating one. On the plus side, it has an exterior design that combines form and function more elegantly than any point-and-shoot we've ever tested. A Digic II-powered image-processing system enables the SD500 to snap a limitless stream of 7-megapixel photos at a respectable clip, and its start-up time is tops in its class. Unfortunately, the camera's downside is also substantial. Severe fringing, hit-and-miss focus, and high noise even at lower ISO settings bedevil the SD500's photos. In the end, this is a camera that we really enjoyed shooting with but whose weak photo quality ultimately disappointed us.'
DP Review reviews the Canon PowerShot SD500 digital camera and writes - 'It's not without reason that the IXUS/Elph range has proved so popular; the combination of size, design and materials, performance and decent image quality is a compelling one. The SD500 is no exception; it's fast, easy to use and capable of producing first-class results in the right situations - and it has all the hallmarks of a design classic. But it's not a camera without problems. Some, such as the rather erratic behavior of the AiAF 'intelligent' focus system, can be easily overcome (switch to center focus), others, such as the SD500's tendency to miss fine low-contrast detail, will only really cause you a problem if you're printing at sizes over about 8x10 inches.'
Imaging Resource has published a review of the Canon PowerShot SD500 Digital Camera and advise - 'Canon's ELPH line of digital cameras have consistently offered good image quality, user-friendly design, and excellent build quality, and the new Canon PowerShot SD500 is no exception. While it's not actually that much smaller than the previous CompactFlash-based SD500 model, it feels a lot smaller, thanks no doubt to its sleekly sculpted, curving body design. When it comes to picture taking, while actual exposure control remains automatic, the ability to adjust ISO, White Balance, and access longer shutter times significantly increases the camera's shooting range. Thanks to its high-speed DIGIC-II processing chip, it's also very responsive for a subcompact digital camera, and its movie capability goes far beyond what I'm accustomed to seeing from subcompact digicam models. One particularly positive note is that the Canon SD500 seems to largely avoid the problems with softness in the corners suffered by the SD200 and SD300 models, and its 7-megapixel CCD also manages to keep noise levels under control, even at ISO 400.'
Digital Camera Review has a review of the Canon Powershot SD500 Digital Camera and writes - 'Canon's little SD500 is a revolutionary imaging tool that pushes the boundaries of product development right to the cutting edge where the upper limits of current resolution technology meet the potential limits of miniaturization. With the introduction of the SD500 Canon has achieved one of the two symbolic holy grails of the digital imaging revolution (the other is an affordable high performance dSLR). Photography has always been about compromises so there will never be a perfect camera, but the new Canon Powershot SD500 comes tantalizingly close. It is (for now) in a class all by itself.'
Pocket Lint reviews the 7 megapixel Canon Ixus 700 (also known as the SD500) and asks the question we all asked when we saw it announced - do you really need that many megapixels in a point and shoot digital camera? They write:
'So should you be rushing out to buy the Ixus 700. This is the important question and we can�t help but feel the answer is NO.DP Expert reviews the Canon IXUS 700and writes -
'The IXUS700, like its competitors in this price range, seems to be so fast in its responses that we may be able to say that shutter lag is now just a bad memory. We had no trouble capturing the decisive moment.
The camera is small enough to easily fit in a pocket. Face area is almost exactly the same as a credit card and it is 25mm thick. It feels quite heavy, but in the best and most reassuring way.
Results from this camera were consistently good, requiring little or no post processing in the computer.'
Megapixel reviews the Canon SD500/IXUS 700 and writes - 'Photos captured over the entire focal length ranges reveal a solid performance overall, but also that focus is at its softest at the widest angle.
Distortion, on the other hand, is minimal at both ends of the range � pincushion is negligible at the telephoto end and barrelling is never obvious at the wide end � and moreover, images are normally free of any chromatic aberration.
Similarly, although sharpness is a bit softer at the wide end, images show that it is even across the field of view captured by the lens.'
Learn more about the Canon Powershot SD500/IXUS 700 from the following Canon Press Release.
Canon Builds Cutting-Edge Custom Color Controls, High-Resolution Imaging, High-Speed Transfers and Fast Frame Video Into two Sleek & Stylish Pocket and Purse Sized Package
It's true...the two newest Digital ELPH(R) models in Canon's perennially popular PowerShot(R) compact camera series - the PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH and the PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH cameras - not only capture brilliant high resolution images and transfer them in a flash, but also allow the user to customize their color on the spot, removing the need for time consuming computer retouching. Both new PowerShot Digital ELPH cameras will be showcased at PMA 2005, February 20 - 23 (Canon Booth #3503), in Orlando, Fla.
Form, Function and Fun
While the new line-leading 7.1 megapixel PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH camera with its sleek new curved metallic design and its 5.0 megapixel companion model PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH camera continue Canon's tradition of providing top-tier imaging technology in a ultra- slim, ultra-compact, easy-to-use package, these two models heighten the photo fun factor as well.
“The Digital ELPH series remains the epitome of high-quality camera design in the consumer camera market, often imitated but never equaled,” said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ). “We know that though their sleek and slim styling consistently captures consumers' attention and affection, their fashionable form most assuredly follows one primary function: excellence in imaging. Ultimately, it is the high-quality pictures captured, printed and shared with near effortless ease that is the cornerstone of Digital ELPH cameras' appeal.”
New Design Lines for the Top of the Line
At first glance, it is clear that PowerShot SD500 model is no ordinary Digital ELPH camera. Departing from the linear style that has characterized ELPH model cameras from their very beginning, the body lines of this new entry have not simply been refined, they have been redefined and redesigned.
Dubbed the “Perpetual Curve Design” by Canon engineers, the body shaping method reduces unevenness and tends to fit the hand more comfortably, all while accommodating the size demands of the camera's internal components. A gradual bulge from the grip side towards the flash side achieves a physically thin and visually slim appearance from the front, while the SD500 Digital ELPH camera's newly trimmed down side panels add to the camera's ultra thin appearance. The camera's stainless steel case is silver gray in color with a high-brightness coating applied to heighten the effect created by the elegant, continuous curve of the body.
The PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH Camera
Enabling the PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH camera's 7.1-megapixel resolution is a larger 1/1.8 inch type CCD image sensor (compared with the 5-megapixel 1/2.5-inch type CCD sensor of the PowerShot SD400 model). The SD500 Digital ELPH also features a retractable 3x optical/4x digital zoom lens with a 35mm equivalent focal length of up to 37-111 mm, making it ideally suitable for a wide range of photographic applications from landscapes and snapshots to portraits and macro at a working distance of under four inches from the subject. The camera's shutter speeds range from 15 up to 1/2000th of second, combined with a faster and more responsive 9-point AiAF “Smart” autofocus system. Adding to the power of this aptly named PowerShot camera is a new and more powerful built-in flash with six modes (auto/auto with red-eye reduction,/flash on with red-eye reduction, flash on/ flash off and slow synchro).
Petite and Powerful
The PowerShot SD500 and PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH cameras are also appointed with a full-range of movie features including a built-in microphone and speaker. Among the improvements is the ability to use the digital zoom while shooting movies in the high-resolution 640 x 480 30 fps VGA mode. Since the digital zoom does not involve any mechanical movement, zooming can be performed without creating any additional ambient noise that could be picked up by the cameras' built in microphone. The cameras also offer a “Fast Frame Rate” of 60 frames per second for a maximum of one-minute (at a resolution of up to 320 x 240 pixels), ideal for analyzing a golf swing or a tennis stroke using one of the supplied slow-motion playback settings. The compact movie mode - designed with e-mail attachments in mind - captures a maximum of three minutes of recording at 15 fps and a resolution of 160 x 120 pixels.
A new Night Display Function automatically brightens the subject in order to make framing a shot in dusk, night or other lowlight situations easier while the cameras' large 2-inch, 118,000 pixel LCD monitor features a backlight that combines lower power consumption with high brightness that improves the visibility of the LCD monitor even in bright surroundings. The monitor also incorporates a “quick bright LCD” function that temporarily boosts the brightness to its maximum level with nothing more than a one-second touch of the display button. Press the button a second time for one second and the monitor returns to its original brightness level.
DIGIC(R) II - Hi-Speed USB 2.0
True to the tradition of the Digital ELPH camera series, both the PowerShot SD500 and the PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH cameras have many of the latest advances in Canon technology including the proprietary DIGIC II Imaging processor that enhances picture definition, vibrancy and quality, while helping increase the speed of the cameras' startup, autofocus, shutter response and playback as well as the image processing speed. The pace of image transfer is accelerated (when used with a USB 2.0 compatible computer, printer or other peripheral) thanks to the inclusion of a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port, the first time this feature has appeared in the PowerShot series. The USB 2.0 port is backwards compatible (at no increased speed) with computers featuring standard USB 1.1 connections.
Other New Features of Interest
Both new Digital ELPH cameras incorporate a host of improvements that contribute to their overall high quality level and functionality. For example, the Intelligent Orientation Sensor not only rotates vertical shots automatically, it now wakes up the cameras from sleep mode by detecting movement when the camera is picked up. A new Custom Timer function lets users shoot up to 10 consecutive frames automatically at the end of a preset delay, which can range from 1 to 30 seconds. The Review function has also been improved with the addition of several preset intervals plus a “Hold” function, and Playback mode now has the ability to locate captured images quickly according to shooting date or file type (JPEG or Movie).
In addition to the rich feature set both cameras have to offer they both also feature Canon's new “My Color” technology. Now even the most casual picture-taker can easily opt for verdant valleys of greener greens, juicy apples of redder red, skies and seas of bluer- blue and even add or reduce a little tan to the skin tone as they are shooting. Whether the desired effect is to make the color “more real” or surreal, these digital dynamos are capable of capturing and saving both the original still image and the enhanced color versions as separate files on the camera's SD Memory Card.
PictBridge Compliant
Both the PowerShot SD500 and SD400 Digital ELPH models support all current PictBridge functions. Established as the global industry standard for direct printing from any PictBridge compliant camera to any PictBridge compliant printer regardless of brand, these functions include single image prints, several selected images per print, as well as more advanced PictBridge setup features including print cropping, quantity selection, date imprinting, Layout print (fixed size), Layout print (N-up) and File Name imprinting.
Print and Share Function Plus Powerful New Software
The PowerShot SD500 and SD400 Digital ELPH models both feature Canon's popular Print and Share function, which enables one-touch direct printing or direct transfer via PTP (Picture Transfer Protocol) to compatible personal computers using the supplied USB interface cable. New in this generation of cameras is the ability to download images directly to Mac OS X (10.1.5 and higher) as well as Windows(R) XP operating systems. The new cameras are also supplied with the latest versions of Canon's powerful yet easy-to-use software applications, including ZoomBrowser EX 5.1 (for Windows) and ImageBrowser 5.1 (for Mac OS X), as well as PhotoRecord (Windows) for high-quality layout printing, and PhotoStitch (Windows/Mac) for panoramas. ArcSoft PhotoStudio is also supplied for advanced photo editing functions.
Pricing and Availability
The PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH and PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH will be supplied with a wrist strap and interface cables for USB and A/V, as well as a 32MB or 16MB SD card respectively, a rechargeable lithium ion battery pack and charger, software, and user manuals. The PowerShot SD400 Digital ELPH Camera will be available in April and the PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH will be available in March for estimated street prices of $399.99*, and $499.99* respectively.
Canon Press Release: CANON’S NEW EF-S 60MM F/2.8 MACRO USM LENS AND NEW WIRELESS CONTROLLER LC-5 MAKE TAKING CLOSE-UPS EASY…EVEN AT A DISTANCE
For photographers whose idea of a close-up is the full-frame flutter of a bumblebee’s wings, Canon’s new EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens makes it happen. And…for photographers who do not want to bump the bee’s knees, spook the subject or receive a stinging rebuke (or worse), Canon’s new infrared Wireless Controller LC-5 can make compelling close-ups a snap, even from more than one football field away. Both products will be on display at PMA 2005, February 20 – 23 (Canon Booth #3503), in Orlando, Fla.
The EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens is a compact, internal focusing lens designed specifically for the just announced EOS Digital Rebel? XT SLR camera as well as the prosumer EOS 20D and entry-level EOS Digital Rebel SLR cameras. The new lens focuses from infinity down to 1:1 (lifesize) at a generous working distance of approximately four inches from the subject.
What’s more, because it is an internal focusing lens, the physical size of the new lens remains constant, ensuring that it will never inadvertently invade a subject’s space. This is a particular advantage in macro nature shooting with live subjects when sudden lens movement such as a forward focus adjustment with a conventional macro can cast an unwanted shadow on the subject or send more wary species scampering for cover.
Optimized for the large, APS-C size CMOS imaging sensor used by the two Digital Rebel cameras and the EOS 20D SLR, the EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens takes full advantage of the short back-focus and small image circle that characterize EF-S type lenses. The lens uses a 3-group floating inner focus system in which group one is fixed while groups two and three move on their own separate tracks. The process provides enhanced correction for any aberrations that may arise during focusing as well as a “flat field” that optimizes the lens’ center-to-corner performance with tack-sharp image quality over the entire shooting area. This is coupled with a working distance of 90mm from the front of the lens to the subject during 1:1 macro photography, the longest working distance in its class.
Though it is a true macro lens in all respects (as opposed to a zoom lens with a macro setting), the 1.6x focal length conversion factor (created by the difference in size between the cameras’ image sensor and a traditional 35mm film frame) gives this 60mm lens an angle of view equivalent to a 96mm lens on a 35mm camera, making it a high-end performer as a portrait lens as well.
Brawn and Brains
While the lens features Canon’s rugged metallic EF bayonet mount, the back of the lens is designed to prevent it from being mounted on cameras that do not accept EF-S lenses, and features a rubber ring to prevent damage to the camera. The mount also serves as the conduit for signal transmission between the lens and the camera, providing such EOS dedicated information as lens status, lens type, metering information, focal length, distance information and AF drive information. Finally, the EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens is constructed of environmentally friendly lead-free glass, and it is treated with Canon’s Super Spectra coating to help ensure exceptionally accurate color balance while minimizing flare and ghosting.
Employing Canon’s quieter and faster Ring USM (ultrasonic motor) autofocus drive, a high speed CPU and an improved AF algorithm for fast autofocusing, the EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens also accommodates manual focusing even when the camera is in the AF mode. The lens is also compatible with Canon’s specialty macro Speedlites, the Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX and Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX.
Remotely Possible
Working in Macro mode can demand a level of precision and steadiness that goes beyond the tolerances of typical picture taking. Mounting the camera on a sturdy tripod and controlling the camera functions with a remote switch are long-standing methods of minimizing camera shake and vibration. Now, thanks to Canon’s new Wireless Controller LC-5, photographers can easily create compelling close-ups from a safe and secure “line-of-sight” distance of up to 330 feet. Far more than a wireless shutter release, this newly enhanced infrared remote provides photographers with the flexibility to control essential camera functions without intruding on the scene.
The Canon Wireless Controller LC-5 simply attaches to a compatible camera’s accessory shoe or can be separately attached to a supplied bracket and connected to the camera’s three-pronged N3 Remote socket with the supplied 15-inch receiver cable. The unit is triggered with a pocket-sized transmitter that sends an infrared pulse-modulated strobe signal to the receiver. Powered by 4 AA alkaline batteries (approximately 4,500 operations per set), the LC-5 controller is also compatible with AA-size Lithium, oxyride and Nickel-hydride rechargeable batteries.
Offering photographers the situational adaptability of four control modes, the LC-5 can be set to Single-Shot mode which captures one shot each time the transmitter button is pressed; Continuous mode which signals the receiver to keep firing the camera (until the transmitter button is pressed again or until the camera’s buffer memory limit or maximum storage card capacity is reached); Test mode which illuminates a red LED on the receiver to confirm that the unit is operating properly before shooting, and Delay mode which fires a single shot approximately 3.5 seconds after the transmitter button is pressed.
The Wireless Controller LC-5 is also equipped with three channel settings (A, B and C) to ensure that multiple remote Canon users do not inadvertently set off someone else’s camera or in situations where a single photographer is remotely triggering more than one camera setup. In that instance the photographer has the option of firing the separate cameras individually and at will or all at once by selecting the unit’s “ALL” setting.
Whether capturing nature shots in macro mode or intimate wildlife studies that must be fired at a distance, Canon’s Wireless Controller LC-5 expands the ease and with it, the opportunities for unmanned but not unmonitored photography. Among the expanded capabilities offered by the LC-5 that were unavailable on the predecessor models is the improved one-shot release mode (1SR) that permits the photographer to pre-focus the camera and then essentially lay in wait – virtually indefinitely – for the subject to cross into range. By pressing the LC-5 transmitter trigger fully, the LC-5 remote receiver can now “wake” the camera from its energy saving “sleep mode” and capture at will the image that the photographer has patiently been waiting for. In other than 1SR mode, the photographer need only depress the remote transmitter’s trigger button halfway to engage the camera’s autofocus before shooting.
The Wireless Controller LC-5’s components – transmitter, receiver and bracket – pack up into three conveniently-sized cases for increased ease of use. The unit is compatible with Canon’s prosumer EOS 20D digital SLR (and its predecessor the EOS 10D) as well as the professional digital SLR cameras including the EOS-1D, EOS-1Ds, EOS-1D Mark II and EOS-1Ds Mark II. Not limited to use on digital models, the Wireless Controller LC-5 is also compatible with several EOS 35mm film-based SLR models including the EOS-3 and the EOS-1v.
Digitally Do-able
Though using the Wireless Controller LC-5 and the EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens together is only possible on the Canon EOS 20D camera (as it is currently the only camera that accepts both the EF-S type lens and has the three-pin N3 remote socket), two other remote switches – the wireless RC-1 and the wired RS-60E3 – are compatible with both the EOS Digital Rebel and EOS Rebel XT digital models. The EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens is of course compatible with all three digital SLRs.
The RC-1 is a miniature infrared transmitter with a range of up to 16.4 feet. It may be set for either instant shutter release or 2-second delay. The RC-1 may also be used to activate mirror-lock and bulb-shutter functions. The RS-60E3 wired remote switch features a two-foot cable and replicates all of the functions of the EOS Digital Rebel and EOS Digital Rebel XT cameras’ shutter-release button.
The EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens will be in stores in April for an estimated street price of $449*. The Canon Wireless Controller LC-5 will also be available for purchase beginning in June, with an estimated street price to be announced closer to the shipment date.*
The Canon Selphy CP600 is a brand new photo printer from Canon that could make trips to the photo store a thing of the past. It is a dye sublimation printer which prints photos with a protective overcoat at a resolution of 300 x 300 dots per inch. It produces postcard sized prints in just 63 seconds.
The Canon Selphy CP600 will sell for $249.99 and should hit stores in April.
Read more about the Canon Selphy CP600 Photo Printer
Canon Delivers a Multifunction Photo Center in the New PIXMA MP760 Photo All-in-One
New Canon PIXMA MP760 Photo All-In-One Features Direct Photo Printing From 35mm Slides and Negatives, Digital Media Cards and PictBridge Digital Cameras
Canon's new PIXMA MP760 Photo-All-in-One, which will be on display at PMA 2005, February 20 - 23 (Canon Booth #3503), in Orlando, Fla., allows consumers to print directly from slides and negatives, includes card slots for direct digital photo printing and features a color LCD screen for viewing images. In addition to great prints, users can also scan and make copies with the MP760 unit raising the bar for photo print quality from a multi-function device.
Read more about the Canon Pixma MP760
The New Canon Rebel XT (Canon EOS 350D) is an 8.0 Megapixel (APS-C CMOS sensor) DSLR with a 3 frames per second shooting rate (14 frame bursts) that Canon believes will take over from where previous Rebel releases have left off. It has the same DIGIC II image processor of found in the high end professional 'D-series' of DSLRs.
- US Readers Get a price on the Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens at Amazon at the time of writing this bringing the price down to $999.88
- UK Readers get a price on the �Canon EOS 350D Digital SLR Camera 18 - 55mm Lens Kit�.
You can see sample images taken with the Canon Rebel XT here
Also see some pictures of the Rebel XT taken live in Amsterdam.
NEW EIGHT MEGAPIXEL EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR ADDS RESOLUTION, SPEED AND CREATIVE CONTROL TO THE IMAGING INFANTRY
Consumer�s Choice: Second �Rebel� Joins the Digital Revolution
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Feb. 17, 2005 � The Canon EOS Digital Rebel? camera that rocked the world of consumer digital SLRs little more than a year ago now has a new, faster, even smaller, big brother. Sibling rivalries aside, the 8.0 megapixel Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR, which will be showcased at PMA 2005, February 20-23 (Canon Booth #3503), in Orlando, Fla., adds resolution, speed, an extra dollop of creative control and enhanced comfort in the hand, to one of the smallest and lightest digital cameras in its class. Despite its advancements in ergonomic design and technology, this easy to use EOS digital camera is compatible with all of Canon�s EF lenses including the EF-S lenses and still retains the sub-$1,000 price point, proven crucial to entry-level digital SLR consumers.
�As we have with the Digital Rebel�s 35mm film-based cousins, we are expanding the line-up of Digital Rebel SLRs, offering consumers a wider variety of features and price points based on their needs and budgets,� said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ). �Even though we have increased the resolution, speed, responsiveness and energy efficiency on the new EOS Digital Rebel XT camera, we have decreased its size and weight, making it more comfortable to hold and use. Indeed, it is nearly three ounces lighter and more than a half-inch smaller than the original EOS Digital Rebel model.�
Rebel Without A Choice No More
In stores beginning in March, the EOS Digital Rebel XT camera will take its place alongside the original 6.3 megapixel EOS Digital Rebel camera that first placed an affordable, high resolution digital SLR into the hands of Canon consumers. The EOS Digital Rebel XT model is offered in two kit configurations: with and without Canon�s high-quality EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens. The estimated street price for the zoom lens kit will be $999* while the estimated street price for the body only kit will be $899*. The original Digital Rebel will be available at the same time for a reduced estimated street price of $799* for the zoom lens kit. Standard accessories in both camera kits include a battery pack and charger, software, manuals, interface cables, neckstrap and Canon U.S.A. limited warranty. The EOS Digital Rebel XT camera will be offered in both the stylish brushed silver patina and the sleek Canon matte-black finish.
While many of the feature advancements and innovations on the new EOS Digital Rebel XT digital camera are inherited from Canon�s recently introduced EOS 20D �prosumer� SLR (which carries a and estimated street price of approximately $1,599*), the two cameras� most striking technological similarities are their use of Canon�s newly-developed, large single plate, high sensitivity, high resolution color CMOS imaging sensor technology. While the size of the APS-C CMOS sensor on the EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR is fractionally smaller than the APS-C CMOS sensor on the EOS 20D camera (22.2 x 14.8 mm versus 22.5 x15.0 mm respectively) accounting in part for the cameras 8.0 vs. 8.2 megapixel resolution rating, individual pixel dimensions are identical, and they both provide the same effective angle of view, equivalent to 1.6 x the normal EF lens focal length.
�As tempting as it is to compare the EOS Digital Rebel XT digital camera with the more advanced EOS 20D model based on their technological kinship, there are, of course, some very real differences between them. While the 20D SLR includes performance features such as faster continuous shooting speed (five frames-per-second (fps) vs. three fps) with larger burst capability (23 frames vs. 14) and custom function settings (18 vs. 9) that more than justify its heftier price tag, this new Rebel XT model was created for those dedicated SLR users who are migrating to digital for the first time and do not wish to give up the flexibility that an SLR system offers,� explained Hashimoto. �For that discerning yet still entry-level digital SLR consumer, having the EOS Digital Rebel and the EOS Digital Rebel XT cameras to choose from is Canon�s latest one/two combination, and it�s a real knockout.�
Finer Photos Faster
The new EOS Digital Rebel XT digital camera can shoot up to 14 consecutive Large/Fine (8.0 megapixel) JPEGs, five RAW files, or four RAW + Large/Fine JPEGs at a rate of up to three frames-per-second. The EOS Digital Rebel camera�s smaller buffer permits bursts of only four Large/Fine (6.3 megapixel) JPEG or RAW frames at a rate of up to 2.5 frames per second.
While reprising the Digital Rebel SLR�s ISO range of 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1600, Canon raised the Auto ISO setting on the Digital Rebel XT model to 400 in order to help improve image quality, reduce camera shake and brighten the scene behind the subject when taking a flash photo. The new Digital Rebel XT camera also offers 12 exposure modes that are user selectable at the turn of a conveniently placed dial. The exposure modes take into account virtually all shooting conditions and preferences are: Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off, Program AE, Shutter speed-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Manual and Auto Depth-of-Field AE.
In addition to its lossless compression 8.0 megapixel RAW image file option, the Rebel XT Digital SLR offers users the option of shooting in a range of sizes and quality JPEG settings (based on shooter�s preference, need and end-use requirements) from large (8.0 megapixels) and medium (4.15 megapixels), to small (2.0 megapixels). Within each resolution option, the user may also select quality settings: large/fine, large/normal, medium/fine, medium/normal, small/fine and small/normal.
RAW Power
What�s more, where the original Digital Rebel camera required dedicated software to extract embedded middle/fine resolution JPEGs from the larger, uncompressed RAW image file, the new Rebel XT model saves RAW and large/fine resolution images as separate files on the Compact Flash card. The user also has the option of selecting RAW (8.0 megapixel) files only, saving valuable space on the CF card. As with the EOS 20D, the Digital Rebel XT camera�s RAW files are denoted by the CR2 extension.
Creative Control
Among the new features found on the EOS Digital Rebel XT camera are user selectable metering and AF modes, flash exposure compensation control, improved E-TTL II evaluative flash metering and for the first time in this product category, custom function control. The Digital Rebel XT SLR even offers a monochrome mode for consumers who enjoy the subtleties and shadings that only black and white images offer. These additional controls greatly increase the creative power of the Digital Rebel XT, without taking away any of the automated functions that made the original Digital Rebel so popular with beginning photographers.
The Rebel XT camera incorporates nine of the Custom Functions previously found on the EOS 20D model. Designed to fine-tune camera operation according to personal preferences, the custom functions offer users a set of programming options for the SET button/Cross keys, as well as control over long exposure noise reduction; flash sync speed in AV mode; AF start from the shutter button or AE lock button; AF assist beam; mirror lockup; E-TTL II metering patterns, and shutter curtain sync.
All This and DIGIC? II
Canon�s newest and most powerful SLR imaging engine, DIGIC II provides high-precision and high speed, natural color reproduction including high-saturation, bright subjects, improved auto white balance, along with increased white balance correction control and white balance bracketing (another legacy of EOS 20D advances), compared to the original Digital Rebel camera.
The white balance correction control is a digital color filter that works like a light balancing filter or a color-compensating filter. Both the blue/amber bias and the magenta/green bias can be adjusted to +/- 9 levels. While the blue/amber bias adjustment is standard on the original Digital Rebel model, the Rebel XT camera�s additional magenta/green bias adjustment provides increased color compensation from the earlier model.
The Rebel XT SLR�s white balance bracketing mode enables the camera to automatically take three images for every shot snapped, each with a different bias setting. The user can then select the best shot and discard the other two. White balance bracketing can also be used in combination with white balance correction. The benefit of all of this white balance wizardry can be found in the photographs with colors captured accurately and precisely under a wide range of conditions.
In addition to the legion of image quality improvements, DIGIC II speeds up the camera�s performance from start up that is ten times faster on the EOS Digital Rebel XT model than it is on the EOS Digital Rebel with the original iteration of DIGIC (.2 of a second on the EOS Digital Rebel XT model compared with 2 seconds on the EOS Digital Rebel camera).
Utilizing the same 7-point autofocus system as the EOS Digital Rebel camera, the new EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR is capable of analyzing where a subject is -- even when it is off center � and almost immediately bringing it into focus. It can also analyze subject movement and automatically selects locking or tracking AF modes as needed. These features simplify the camera�s operation and optimize its performance. The Digital Rebel XT allows users to select locking or tacking AF modes independently, adding a new dimension of creative control.
What�s more, even though both Digital Rebel SLRs use that identical 7-point autofocus system, the Rebel XT model�s new DIGIC II chip actually help increase the speed of autofocus calculation and hence the responsiveness of the autofocus itself. For greater creative control, both cameras also offer users the option of automatic and manual focusing point selection.
Another feature improved by the presence of DIGIC II is the speed of the direct printing function, which is PictBridge compatible. DIGIC II also produces faster startup times, faster CompactFlash card writing speed; and approximately 10X faster data transfer speeds thanks to the processor�s new USB 2.0 high-speed interface. As an added bonus, the DIGIC II chip is so efficient, it actually reduces the EOS Digital Rebel XT camera�s power consumption (and extends battery life) by approximately 35%. Indeed, this new Rebel XT camera is so energy efficient, it is powered by the same lighter-weight NB-2LH battery pack used by the PowerShot S60 (as opposed to the larger BP-511A battery pack used by the original Digital Rebel model). While the NB-2LH battery and charger are included with the Digital Rebel XT camera, both a new vertical grip (BG-E3) that accepts up to two NB-2LH battery packs or six AA-sized batteries and an AC Adapter Kit (ACK700) for powering from an AC outlet, are available as optional accessories.
E-TTL II: Exposure Control In A Flash
The new Rebel XT camera also features the next step in the evolution of evaluative- through the lens exposure control, E-TTL II. Though compatible with all Canon EX-series Speedlites, this �smarter� new E-TTL II system helps ensure that, even in situations with highly reflective subjects or backgrounds or when shooting in most other similarly difficult lighting situations, the image will be optimally exposed.
The E-TTL II system compares the ambient light with the reflected pre-flash off the subject reported in all 35 metering zones and selects the areas with a small difference to be weighted for flash exposure calculation. This system also helps eliminate or underweights areas with large differences, recognizing them as an extremely reflective object in the background or a highly reflective subject.
Bundled Software
Both the Rebel XT Camera and lens kit and the body only kit are shipped with three software discs including EOS Digital Solutions Disc 10 featuring ZoomBrowser EX, ImageBrowser and ArcSoft PhotoStudio together with other utilities, another disc containing Digital Photo Professional 1.6 for RAW file conversions, and a third disc containing PDF versions of the instruction manuals for each application.
Outback Photo has an experience report/review of the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT (350D) and lists some of the initial Pros of the DSLR as:
Imaging Resource has a good user review of the Canon Digital Rebel XT and writes - 'There's no question that the Canon Digital Rebel XT is a leap ahead, offering a quality SLR in a very small package. I think it'll be ideally suited for its target market, which is the family shooter who wants to catch the kids at play. It'll give you more of what you need to catch action at sporting events and is a good size for the traditional keeper of family photographs, the mom. Those who think the smaller size will be a burden can still choose the original Digital Rebel, now available in a kit that includes the lens for around $800. You can also buy the new BG-E3 battery grip, which you can load with less expensive AA batteries if you like. Since humans are vertical, shooting vertical is a great way to eliminate clutter in the background, so buying and using this grip by default would immediately improve your people photography. For travelers wanting a powerful digital camera with a spectacular imager, and the option of a few different lenses, you'll not find a more portable SLR, and certainly not a more capable one anywhere near its size or price range.'
Photo.net also has a good user review of the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT and writes - 'It looks very much like the image quality of the Digital Rebel XT is up to that of the EOS 20D. It's also evident from using the Digital Rebel, that it's a Rebel, i.e. a camera aimed at the consumer entry level, while the 20D is clearly aimed at the more experienced and serious photographer. Ultimately in many respects the cameras will be capable of yielding almost identical results, it's just that doing it with the 20D will be a little easier. Of course there are things the Digital Rebel doesn't do as well. It has a slower frame rate, a smaller JPEG image buffer, a lower capacity battery, the AF system is different and, as mentioned, the viewfinder is smaller. However for many people saving $400-$500 will make up for all those things. Personally, I'd buy the 20D, but that's just me. Many people will buy the Digital Rebel XT and be very happy with it.'
Steves Digicams reviews the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT / EOS 350D and writes - 'The Digital Rebel XT's 12 exposure modes are easily selected by a turn of the top-mounted Mode dial. These exposure modes cover virtually all the shooting conditions you'll ever encounter and are: Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off, Program AE, Shutter speed-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Manual and Auto Depth-of-Field AE. The camera's ISO sensitivty range is 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1600, Canon raised the Auto ISO setting to include ISO 400 in order to help improve image quality, reduce camera shake and brighten the scene behind the subject when taking a flash photo.'
Digital Photography Review has a review of the Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT Review and writes - 'So it's clear, the EOS 350D is a great successor to the EOS 300D, it puts right many user complaints, it delivers a smaller and lighter camera which feels better put together and delivers an increase in resolution. Image quality is just as good as the more expensive EOS 20D, if you can live with the differences between the two the money saved could buy you a very nice lens. The upgrade decision for existing EOS 300D owners is definitely more difficult, the increase in resolution from six to eight megapixels really isn't that significant but some of the new features, improved performance and reduction size and weight are.'
Gordon Laing has published a great review of the Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT review and writes - 'The prospect of upgrading a camera which is less than two years old can be a bitter pill to swallow, and if you're happy with your 300D or 10D, then our best advice is to stick with it. Sure, the extra two megapixels on the 350D are nice to have, but unless you're making very large prints or tight crops, you won't notice much difference. Similarly, the smaller dimensions and weight of the 350D may be welcomed by most photographers, but unless you're an avid climber or walker who values every ounce, you could probably live with your old camera.
Probably the biggest difference between the 350D and its 6 megapixel predecessors though is the handling speed. Again if you never really noticed the time it took for the 300D and 10D to startup, stick with what you've got, but if you've cursed this delay then the 350D's speed could be sufficient to justify an upgrade.'
BIOS reviews the Canon EOS 350D DSLR and writes - 'Canon's EOS 350D Digital (Digital Rebel XT in the US) combines ease of use, a robust design, and many of the same compelling technologies found in Canon's professional series EOS cameras, making it an excellent camera for the money. Image quality is up slightly on its predecessor thanks to a new CMOS sensor and improved DIGIC image processing, its high-ISO performance was impressive, and its low shutter lag and nearly instant power on time will prove popular for impulsive snappers. For travellers wanting a powerful digital camera with the option of different lenses, you'll not find a more portable or capable SLR in this price range.'
Creative Pro reviews the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT Camera and writes - 'It's kind of sad, really. When it comes to image quality, Canon has set the bar so high that there's no real surprise about the XT's output. It's great. (The truly newsworthy event would be if Canon released an EOS camera with lousy image quality.)
Seemingly identical to the 20D's image quality (though 48 x 36 pixels smaller), the XT excels in all shooting situations. With an ISO range of 100 to 1600, it lacks the 20D's additional 3200 ISO, but delivers images with even less noise than the original Rebel. With the XT, shooting at 1600 ISO delivers noise roughly equivalent to what the original Rebel would deliver at 800.'
PC Magazine reviews the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT and recommends - 'The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT is a superbly crafted camera that will please nearly anyone with any interest in photography�from those who want to set their camera on auto to those who want to experiment. And by keeping the price under $1,000, Canon ensures the continued popularity of its Digital Rebel line. This camera provides a truly excellent value, and we wholeheartedly recommend it.'
Lets Go Digital Reviews the Canon EOS 350D Digital Camera and writes - 'The Canon EOS 350D overall quality is excellent. Especially the application of the DIGIC II processor gives the camera indeed a surplus-value. This processor is used by Canon on a broad range and it certainly pays off. The Canon 350D's responses under various circumstances are incredibly impressive. Action, portrait, indoors and outdoors images, snapshots or precise macro images, the Canon EOS 350D is a versatile camera with easy access and captures all these images effortlessly. '
Megapixel reviews the Canon EOS 350D - XT and writes - 'Considerably smaller than the original digital Rebel/EOS 300 D, the Rebel XT/EOS 350D should be very attractive to those tempted by the image quality and lens interchangeability of a digital SLR, but who find most of these cameras too bulky. Indeed, to date only Pentax's *ist DS is comparable to the Rebel XT in terms of size, and the new Rebel XT, building on the excellent reputation of the first digital Rebel, could well become the new yardstick for non-professional digital SLR's.'
CNET Reviews has a review of the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT and writes - 'The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT (known as the EOS 350D outside the United States) represents a leap forward from its predecessor, the original Digital Rebel, offering more than one might expect from the addition of a couple consonants to the name. The XT is a zippy performer. It offers more creative control than its predecessor and boasts an 8-megapixel CMOS sensor and Canon's Digic II processing engine. Canon touts its smaller, lighter body as well; it's nearly as small as you can get in a digital SLR. But while that might appeal to the small handed and nimble, the XT's compressed, lightweight, and slightly chintzy-feeling frame will be a hindrance to others who prefer a solid grip and a balanced camera body--particularly if they're using a lens any heavier than the mediocre 18mm-to-55mm f/3.5-to-f/5.6 unit included in the kit. In terms of image quality, the Rebel XT is a bargain, delivering wonderfully detailed and colorful images for a competitive price. While the Rebel XT lacks some features found on the more solid and slightly pricier Nikon D70, the XT is the clear winner when it comes to resolution and dynamic range.'
ephotozine reviews the Canon EOS 350D and writes - 'The Canon EOS 350D is a very capable camera providing all the common features needed to get started photographing with a digital SLR. The 18-55mm EF-S lens bundled with it is the biggest disappointment, a better lens is needed to really get the most out of this camera. Images taken at high ISO sensitivities display low amounts of noise, and the autofocus is quick, accurate and easy to use. This camera is ideal for a beginner looking for a high quality digital camera that allows plenty of scope for more advanced techniques as their ability grows.'
Today Nikon updated its Coolpix range with the release of 5 new cameras, the Nikon Coolpix 4600, Nikon Coolpis 5600, Nikon Coolpix 5900, Nikon Coolpix 7600 and Nikon Coolpix 7900. One of the interesting selling points of these digital cameras is the new inbuilt editing and sensing capabilities including Red Eye Reduction (which detects and fixes red eyes in camera), 'D-Lighting' (which in playback mode detect underexposed parts of the image and enhances them) and 'Face Priority AF Function' which senses a face in an image and ensures it is in focus.
Nikon Press Release: Face-priority Auto Focus Industry Leading Technology Featured in New COOLPIX 7900, 5900 and 7600, Compact Digital Cameras
Tokyo — Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce an exciting new technology that makes it easier to take high-quality, sharply focused portraits. Called Face-priority AF (Autofocus), this technology is an industry first and will be initially available on the new COOLPIX 7900, the COOLPIX 5900 and the COOLPIX 7600 compact digital cameras.
Nikon’s newest built-in technologies have set a trend that helps make better pictures with less effort a reality; they’re for making picture taking easier and more effective. While built-in automation has long assured good results, Nikon’s introduction of a new generation of industry leading built-in automatic technologies such as One-Touch Transfer button, In-Camera Red Eye Fix, Scene Assist and D-Lighting facilitate even better results and easier operation. With these newest built-in technologies, the fix is in the camera, and with the announcement of Nikon’s next leadership built-in technology, the next level of exciting picture taking will be achieved.
The Face-priority AF function uses the latest digital technology to automatically detect a person’s face at typical portrait taking distances, then, operating based on real photographic techniques, activates autofocus to focus upon the face area!
Here’s how it works: when you’re ready to take a portrait, select the camera’s Portrait Mode and Face-priority is automatically activated. A special digital detection program will scan for facial details and then control autofocus operation based on the location of the detected face in the scene. Even if the subject moves, or as the photographer recomposes the picture, Face-priority AF will respond and keep focus on the subject’s face. Manual techniques that formerly required the photographer to use focus lock can be avoided in favor of the new automation of Face-priority AF. It’s faster, responsive to creative composition, and makes portrait picture taking easier than ever.
Based on detection of facial characteristics and general scene arrangement, the technology can detect when the camera is composed for vertical or horizontal composition and works effectively even if the composition is a little tilted. Even when the subject’s distance changes within the typical portrait distance, Face-priority AF will continue to operate.
To use the new technology, Select Portrait Mode on the camera’s mode dial and Face-priority AF will be automatically selected. Compose on the person, which must have their face towards the camera, then, ½ depress the shutter button to activate the camera. As Face-prioity AF activates, a square outline on the camera’s LCD will appear around the face, confirming operation; if the photographer decides to recompose the image, Face-priority AF will track the subject’s facial area and will confirm the moving subject by changing color for the square outline and keeping the square outline around the face. When there are two or three people in the scene, Face-priority AF will operate using closest subject priority and the square confirming outline will indicate the closest person in the scene’s composition.
Taking a portrait is not a static, always the same situation. Picture taking varies with the photographer’s creativity. So, each Nikon model that features Nikon’s new Face-prioity AF, will also include Nikon’s popular Scene Assist Mode and Multiple AF sensing areas such as those featured in 5-area automatic focus function or 99-area manual focus selection in the new COOLPIX 5900 and 7900 models as well! Portrait Mode picture taking will be effective and a more exciting part of anyone’s picture taking enjoyment.
* Note: Face recognition capability may be limited in some shooting conditions. For example, the camera may not recognize a face if it is too near or far from the camera, or if some portion of the face is obstructed, such as when a person is wearing sunglasses. Face-priority AF indication outline is visible only on the camera’s LCD panel, and is not visible in the optical viewfinder.
Nikon Corporation has succeeded in bringing this new technology to the market through working closely with Identix (USA – Nasdaq: IDNX). The incorporation of Identix’ industry-leading facial recognition technology, FaceIt® was critical to enabling Nikon’s latest digital photography feature. Dr. Joseph Atick, president and CEO of Identix commented:
“As a leading innovator in camera technology and user friendly features, Nikon is consistently associating itself with many firsts in the history of modern photography. We are proud to collaborate with Nikon on this industry first and to provide our advanced face-finding biometric technologies for the consumer market. Our industry-leading FaceIt face recognition technology is being incorporated as a feature in the new COOLPIX cameras to provide users with an entirely new and convenient photographic experience. We look forward to working closely with Nikon in their quest to continually improve the customers’ experience with their products.”
The new Face-priority AF function is one more example of how Nikon continues to build on the success of the COOLPIX selection of compact digital cameras — making the COOLPIX ever more user friendly and capable of producing better pictures with ease through Nikon built-in technologies.
Every COOLPIX camera model is packaged together with Nikon PictureProject software, designed to help any photographer Organize, Edit, Design and Share their pictures with family and friends. PictureProject … a perfect companion for Nikon photography!
The Nikon D2Hs is a new professional Digital SLR from Nikon just announced in the lead up to the PMA show in Orlando. The Nikon D2Hs takes their D series of DSLRs to the next level
Lets Go Digital's PMA report's Nikon D2Hs page has the word on the D2Hs and writes:
'The Nikon D2Hs performs continuous shooting of 50 photos with 4.1 effective Megapixels at a speed of 8fps. Not only inherits this digital SLR all the good things from its predecessors, it also benefits from the new technologies and advances in the development of the recently announced Nikon D2X digital SLR for professional photographers. The impressive range of exclusive functions deliver speed, response, resolution and operation which makes the Nikon D2Hs an ideal camera for professional photographers and sports photographers.'
DP Review also has a good preview of the Nikon D2Hs
Nikon News Release
The professional digital SLR for action and sports, featuring ultra-high speed, high image quality, and maximum efficiency
TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of a professional digital SLR camera that delivers high speed, high precision, and improved handling for action photography: the Nikon D2Hs.
Since the launch of the D1 series and successful introduction of the Nikon DX Format in 1999, Nikon has been conducting extensive research into the needs of photographers in every field and discipline. This research, coupled with painstaking analysis of feedback from Nikon users worldwide, has led to a string of technological and design innovations for the Nikon DX Format aimed at enhancing system performance for the serious photographer.
Capable of shooting at 8 fps for a continuous burst of up to 50 images at 4.1 effective megapixels, the D2Hs inherits the best of its predecessors while also benefiting from new technologies and feedback from advances made in developing the recently announced D2X digital SLR for professionals. This impressive array of exclusive features deliver the speed, response, resolution and handling to establish the D2Hs as the professional’s choice in photojournalism and sports photography.
The enhanced accuracy of digital processing in the ASIC provides smoother shading in gradual color changes, important for subjects, like a blue sky with very subtle tone changes within the blue range.
The D2Hs supports the sYCC color profile found in many of the latest printers. This means that the wider range of colors can be reproduced for printing JPEG data than the conventional sRGB color profile.
The D2Hs also adopts a combination of image-processing technologies and 3D-Color Matrix Metering II improved with new algorithms initially developed for the D2X, making it possible to capture beautiful images that will fulfill photographers’ needs for action photos with rich detail, color and smooth tone range.
Class-leading performance features inherited from its predecessor, the D2H include instant start-up, an almost imperceptible shutter time lag of just 37ms, and an improved implementation of the 11-area autofocus system, all of which enable the user to concentrate on shooting without being distracted by the time-consuming process of obtaining the most suitable settings for the best possible result.
Improvements to the large 2.5-inch LCD monitor include higher resolution of 232,000 pixels and clear, flicker-free display of images and information. The Histogram display is improved, while new selectable RGB Histogram displays make color channel-specific exposure confirmation quick, easy and accurate. Other handy displays have also been added, including the World Time function and the chronological Recent Settings list.
As part of Nikon’s Total Imaging System, the D2Hs is compatible with Nikon’s growing family of digital-exclusive DX Nikkor lenses as well as the lineup of high-quality Nikkor AF lenses. When used with the SB-800 or SB-600 Speedlights, the D2Hs maximizes the potential of Nikon’s Creative Lighting System with high precision flash performance, including i-TTL flash control and support for Nikon’s Advanced Wireless Lighting system.
The D2Hs is compatible with the new IEEE802.11b/g Wireless Transmitter WT-2/2A, providing faster image transmission with improved security and compatibility with the latest protocols, as well as offering capability for wireless remote control of the D2Hs from a computer with Nikon Capture 4 version 4.2.1 (optional) software installed. Of course, support is also maintained for the Wireless Transmitter WT-1/1A developed for the D2H.
Another feature adopted from D2X development is support for GPS devices, which can connected using the optional new MC-35 cable to include in the shooting data information such as latitude, longitude and altitude at the time of capture.
Bundled with the D2Hs is PictureProject, an easy-to-use software application for managing, editing and sharing image files. The D2Hs is also compatible with Nikon’s own photo-finishing application Nikon Capture 4 version 4.2.1 (optional), a convenient tool for professional photographers. Nikon Capture 4 version 4.2.1 has been enhanced with faster processing, improvements to image processing functions, as well as several new functions.
The design of the camera’s ergonomic styling is adopted from one created by famed industrial designer Giorgetto GIUGIARO exclusively for a new generation of Nikon camera.
Nikon D2Hs Major Features
LBCAST image sensor with 4.1 effective megapixels
Nikon's exclusive DX Format JFET image sensor LBCAST (Lateral Buried Charge Accumulator and Sensing Transistor array) combines optimized resolution and speed to deliver image quality and high-speed performance.
Advanced new image processing engine produces high quality images
The new image-processing engine adopts advances from the D2X to further improve image quality. Increased quantization precision when processing the data from the LBCAST sensor improves image quality to produce finer gradations with consistent and smooth transitions.
High-speed continuous shooting at 8 fps for up to 50 consecutive shots
The speed achieved by the LBCAST sensor and image processing makes it possible to shoot continuously at 8 frames per second for up to 50 consecutive JPEG or 40 RAW (NEF) shots. The increased speed of the buffer memory improves recording speed as well as the speed of writing files to CompactFlash™ (CF) memory cards.
3D-Color Matrix Metering II
Refinements to the exposure metering system achieve higher precision in calculating optimum exposure from the data supplied from the 1,005-pixel RGB Exposure/Color Matrix Metering Sensor, even when shooting under challenging conditions.
Precise white balance
Advanced Auto White Balance (AWB) and Auto Tone Control (ATC) systems combine the advantages of three sensors – Nikon's 1,005-pixel RGB Exposure/Color Matrix Metering Sensor, the LBCAST image sensor, and the external Ambient Light Sensor – to effectively handle even complicated lighting conditions. Full manual white balance control options include white balance presets and the direct setting of Kelvin color temperature. In addition, white balance bracketing can also be performed using up to nine frames for a single shot.
Faster, higher precision 11-area AF system
Refinements to the system's AF and lens drive algorithms further improve focus precision, subject acquisition, and subject tracking. Nikon's advanced Multi-CAM 2000 AF Sensor Module features eleven widely spread AF sensors, of which nine are cross-type sensors, broad detection range and a selection of four flexible operating modes. The high precision and speed of the D2Hs's AF system also contributes to achieving high-speed continuous shooting.
High-speed wireless data transfer and camera control
The D2Hs is compatible with both the original Wireless Transmitter WT-1/1A that expanded photographic possibilities and with the optional Wireless Transmitter WT-2/2A, which supports IEEE 802.11g for faster transfer speeds as well as IEEE 802.11b networks. The WT-2/2A also strengthens wireless security options and supports a wider variety of network protocols, including the new PTP/IP protocol that realizes wireless Capture Control from a computer running Nikon Capture 4 (Ver. 4.2.1 or later).
sYCC color space support
Support for sYCC color space produces JPEG files that can fully exploit the output capabilities of the latest color printers and use a gamut wider than sRGB to achieve optimum print quality. The D2Hs also continues to feature three available color modes, which are optimized by the advanced color reproduction system to best match the specific assignment and workflow environment. Color Modes I and III use the sRGB color space, while Color Mode II uses the wider gamut of the Adobe RGB color space.
JPEG and RAW (NEF) combination filing system
The option to simultaneously record RAW (NEF) and JPEG files to the CF card for the same shot makes it possible to streamline workflow operations. JPEG files can be used when faster transfer or delivery is the priority, while NEF format is a convenient option for high-quality applications that allows non-destructive editing and changes.
GPS connectivity expands applications
The latitude, longitude, altitude and UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) at which a shot is taken can be recorded from a GPS unit to the image's metadata. GPS units that comply with the NMEA 0183 (ver.2.01) interface standard can be connected using the optional GPS cable (MC-35).
High-resolution 2.5” LCD
A large new 2.5-inch LCD monitor with a higher resolution of 232,000 pixels adds an all-digital interface for clear, flicker-free display of images and information. Displays include preview images at up to 15x magnification, an improved histogram display, and new selectable RGB Histogram displays make exposure confirmation quick, easy and accurate for each of the Red, Green and Blue color channels, or for RGB.
New World Time and Help menus improve operational ease
The World Time menu makes it easy to select the local time from a world map displayed on the LCD monitor, a handy feature for globetrotting professionals. Also new is the chronological Recent Settings list, as well as available help dialogs that describe menu settings.
Immediate response & ultra-short 37ms shutter lag
Instant power-up and a class-leading shutter release time lag of a mere 37 milliseconds combines with optimized systems throughout to maximize all-round performance and deliver the response needed to handle even challenging professional assignments.
Body design aimed at efficient handing, durability, and resistance to dust & water
The D2Hs inherits the refinements made to the controls and buttons on the D2X for easier operation. The body design is optimized for handling efficiency and, along with the highly durable shutter unit, mirror balancer and other internal mechanisms, to stand the rigors of professional assignments while protecting against drops of water.
Advanced lithium-ion battery system for more shots per charge
Revised battery check algorithms help the high-energy EN-EL4 rechargeable lithium-ion battery to power the D2Hs for approx. 2,900 shots per charge. Accurate real-time battery system status displays include the remaining battery level, the number of shots taken since the last charge, the overall status of the battery's service life, and notification when calibration is necessary.
Practical output interfaces
The USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) interface allows for fast transfer of images to a computer or external storage device. PictBridge support makes it possible to print directly to any compatible printer. And, the supplied Audio Video Cable allows for playback on external devices, including playback of recorded voice memos, which can each be up to 60 seconds in length. Voice memos can also be played back via the built-in speaker.
Full integration with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System
Seamless operation with the SB-800 and SB-600 Speedlights takes full advantage of i-TTL flash control's advanced monitor pre-flash method, accurate measurement when using bounce and robust wireless operation to fully exploit features of the Creative Lighting System such as Advanced Wireless Lighting, Flash Value (FV) Lock, AUTO FP High-Speed Sync, and Flash Color Information Communication. The D2Hs is also compatible with the SB-80DX, SB-50DX, and other earlier Speedlights that use D-TTL flash control.
Compatible with the extensive selection of DX Nikkor and AF Nikkor lenses
The Nikon F lens mount assures unprecedented compatibility with the expanding family of digital dedicated DX Nikkor lenses as well as Nikon’s comprehensive lineup of more than 50 different AF and AF-S Nikkor lenses, which feature high-performance technologies such as VR (Vibration Reduction) functions, Silent Wave Motors (SWM), and ED glass elements. Long favored by professionals for their outstanding autofocus performance, superb color, high contrast and razor-sharp images, over 35 million Nikkor lenses have been sold to date.
Supplied PictureProject software supports personal pleasure
PictureProject's intuitive user interface provides fast and easy access to the basic image management, editing and sharing tools that add to the enjoyment of the digital photography experience. Features include automatic file import, drag-and-drop organization, design layout templates, CD/DVD burning, and plug-in filter support for feature set expansion, (with a RAW plug-in supplied).
Nikon Capture 4 (Ver 4.2.1) for professional workflow support
The optional Nikon Capture 4 (Ver.4.2.1) software package delivers a unique, powerful and expandable environment that provides full control over RAW (NEF) and the color-controlled workflow environment that professionals require. Version 4.2.1 incorporates outstanding new tools that further increase productivity and creative control, while it also improves the speed of data processing. Nikon Capture 4's Remote Camera Control function can control most shooting settings and trigger the camera's shutter release remotely, either connected via the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface, or using the optional Wireless Transmitter WT-2/2A. (PTP/IP wireless camera control requires Windows XP or Mac OS X.)
The Nikon Coolpix 4600 is the lowest end digital camera to be announced by Nikon today but by no means is it without any decent features. It is a 4 megapixel camera with a 3x Optical Zoom ultra compact camera that has a 1.8inch LCD monitor.
The Coolpix 4600 features 'D-Lighting' a new Nikon exclusive feature that allows some editing of images lighting conditions in camera as well as an automatic red eye reduction feature that detects and edits red eyes in camera. Another innovation from Nikon in this model is a camera shake warning.
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix 4600
DigiCam Review has a good review of the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix 4600, has some very appealing qualities, it's compact size, red-eye reduction, blur warning, lots of scene modes, built in help, a 3x optical zoom lens, a 1.8“ screen, a 4 megapixel sensor, and a very good macro mode. Another bonus is that the camera takes AA batteries, something quite rare for compact cameras. The camera has very good image quality - however the camera is let down by purple fringing, and a lack of sound on videos. The Nikon is very good value for money especially for a Nikon - it's a real shame it doesn't record sound on videos - but if you're not interested in videos then this would make a very good digital camera.'
Buy the “Nikon Coolpix 4600 4MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom”
The PMA report writes about the Nikon Coolpix 4600 Digital Camera saying:
'The Nikon Coolpix 4600 is ultra compact and light as a feather. The size of the camera simply asks for being carried around everywhere and always. The Nikon 4600 is equipped with a series of useful preset scenes. Four scenes are even equipped with a handy composition assistance. These preset scenes come in very helpful and prevent the user from thinking too much about how to adjust camera settings. Preset scenes are easy to use: simply select a scene that fits the subject best, like Sunset or Portrait, and have the camera selecting the optimum settings itself. Newly added is the so-called underwater mode.'
Steves Digicams has a review of the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and writes - 'Shooting performance was good for a camera in this class. Power up to first image captured measured 3.1 seconds. Shutter lag measured 1/10 of a second when pre-focused and 3/10 of a second including autofocus. The shot to shot delay averaged about 1.7 seconds between frames without the use of the flash and between 7 and 10 seconds with the flash. While the flash is recharging the LCD goes blank, which I found quite aggravating. There are two Sequential shooting mode to choose from (Continuous, Multi-shot 16.) With Continuous mode, I was able to capture 5 frames in about 3 seconds. Multi-shot mode captures 16 frames, then makes a single 5M/Fine image out of all 16 frames. Using this mode, I was able to capture 16 frames in under 7 seconds. The LCD viewfinder briefly displays the last image captured in all Continuous modes; you'll prefer to use the optical viewfinder if your subject is moving. All test were done using a SanDisk 256MB Ultra II SD card, using 4M/Fine size/quality, welcome screen off, preview off, and all other settings at default (unless otherwise noted.) Times may vary depending on lighting conditions, camera settings, media, etc.'
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix 4600 is a compact, stylish and easy-to-use point and shoot digital camera. The scene modes are both numerous and advanced in their implementation and will really help the beginner, and the in-built help system, although limited, will also prove useful. The Nikon Coolpix 4600 has a couple of new features that aim to make the photographer's life easier, both of which work well. D-Lighting was very effective, offering an in-camera solution for revealing detail in the shadow areas of an image without also over-exposing the highlights. The Red-Eye Reduction feature also worked as promised, with little evidence of red-eye.'
CNET Reviews the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and gives it a rating of 6.0 out of 10. They write - 'Like a brother or a sister who might be mistaken for a twin, Nikon's new entry-level point-and-shoot digital camera is nearly identical to its more expensive sibling. Outwardly, the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and the Coolpix 5600 look exactly the same, but the 4600 has a 4-megapixel sensor instead of the 5600's 5.1-megapixel chip. And while the 4600 has the same video specs as the 5600, it doesn't record video with sound. Like the 5600, the 4600 has several novice-friendly features, including Blur Warning, D-lighting, and Best Shot Selector, which provide automatic solutions to problems you might otherwise solve with manual settings. This camera, however, doesn't offer manual settings because its likely owners aren't interested in fiddling with them. Add the Coolpix 4600's small size, solid construction, and 3X optical zoom, and you have a camera that's worth considering if you're a casual snapshot photographer on a tight budget. '
Learn more about the Nikon Coolpix 4600 from the following news release from Nikon announcing it and the coolpix 5600
Tokyo — Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX 7900 and COOLPIX 5900. Two superior quality compact digital cameras with the power to take highly impressive images, they also feature appealing exterior designs and boast a range of convenient functions and features that are highly advanced, yet easy to use.
For easier composition and anytime viewing, the COOLPIX 7900 and COOLPIX 5900 feature a large 2.0-inch amorphous silicon TFT LCD monitor. Bright and clear, this makes it easy to view images at any time. It also makes it much easier to navigate the new Graphic User Interface (GUI), which has been specially designed to allow the user to select functions on the main menu by either name or icon. There’s also a Help button, which can be pressed to display a straightforward explanation of each function on the main menu and the cameras can be configured to display the menu in a choice of 11 languages.
For impressive imaging performance, the COOLPIX 7900 and COOLPIX 5900 both feature a 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens with a focal range equivalent to that of a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format. They also offer the imaging advantages of 7.1 and 5.1 effective megapixels respectively and a 1/1.8-inch CCD. As a result of these factors, impressive quality is retained even when images from the COOLPIX 7900 are enlarged to A3 dimensions and when images from the COOLPIX 5900 are enlarged to A4 size.
As for speedy performance, the COOLPIX 7900 and 5900 offer continuous shooting at approximately 1.7 and 2fps. They also feature high-precision Multi AF with a choice of 99 manually selectable areas, 5 choices for Auto select AF and the advantage of the new Face-priority AF function*, which can be easily selected when using the Portrait Scene Mode. As its name suggests, Face-priority AF ensures crisp focus when shooting portraits by automatically sensing the presence of a human face in the frame and setting accurate focus accordingly.
* Face recognition capability may be limited depending on the shooting conditions.
Nikon has also turned its ingenuity to reducing power consumption, allowing the COOLPIX 7900 and 5900 to take significantly more shots per battery than other compact digital cameras. In fact, the COOLPIX 7900 is able to take an impressive 220 shots (approx.) with a single fully charged EN-EL5 battery, while the COOLPIX 5900 is able to shoot as many as 270 (approx.). Both cameras are also compatible with widely available disposable CP1 lithium batteries.
Like all the other models in Nikon’s exceptionally popular COOLPIX range, the COOLPIX 7900 and 5900 make shooting much more simple in a range of common situations through the incorporation of Scene Modes. Both cameras offer four Scene Modes that feature Scene Assistance and there’s also a new Underwater Scene Mode that brings the total choice of Scene Modes up to 16. Intended for use with the Waterproof Case WP-CP4, the Underwater Scene Mode enables true-to-life colors to be captured when taking shots while snorkeling or scuba diving. Like all the other Scene modes, operation is extremely easy. Simply select the Scene Mode that best matches the subject, then point and shoot for optimal results — it is that simple. Both cameras are also ideal for capturing action too. Both the COOLPIX 7900 and 5900 have the power to record VGA-size movies with sound at a smooth rate of 30 frames per second.
Perhaps one of the most impressive features of both cameras is Nikon’s innovative D-Lighting function, which adds light and detail to dark areas of shots, while keeping brighter areas just as they are. Nikon’s In-Camera Red-Eye Fix function is another advantage that allows the quality of the shot to be improved after the fact — automatically detecting, then correcting red eyes in-camera to turn shots affected by flash into pleasing night portraits. In addition to these exceptional features, the COOLPIX 7900 and 5900 also feature a handy Blur Warning function that alerts the user immediately whenever an image is blurred due to camera movement. This enables the user to recompose and shoot again before leaving the scene of the shot. The BSS function (Best Shot Selector) is also beneficial in similar circumstances — it allows several shots to be taken and the best shots to be kept. The COOLPIX 7900 is available in both black and silver while COOLPIX 5900 in silver**.
** Availability of body colors may differ by country or area.
Nikon will also be complementing the excellent performance of these new additions to the COOLPIX range with the release of the latest version of Nikon’s unique PictureProject software. Enabling the user to edit, organize and share images with greater speed and ease, PictureProject comes bundled with both cameras.
Sales release schedule: The COOLPIX 5900 is scheduled for release in February 2005. The COOLPIX 7900 is scheduled for release in March 2005.
Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.
Nikon E7900/E5900 Feature Highlights
Comfortable, compact and sophisticated
The compact COOLPIX 7900 and COOLPIX 5900 simply exude superior sophistication, priming the user to expect images with a distinctive level of quality. They also inherit the same grip as their predecessor COOLPIX 5200 and COOLPIX 4200, adding a sense of comfort to the digital shooting experience. Furthermore, the elegance of the COOLPIX 7900/5900 stems not only from their attractive lines and overall ergonomic appeal, but they are also available in eye-catching colors — with a choice of black and silver for the 7900 and silver for the 5900.
* Availability of body colors may differ by country or area.
Impressive imaging capability
The sheer quality of the exteriors is an excellent indication of the imaging capabilities of the COOLPIX 7900/5900. Each possesses a renowned 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens with ED elements (plus 4x digital zoom) to achieve high-level clarity with absolute minimal dispersion. The COOLPIX 7900/5900 offer the respective imaging power of 7.1 and 5.1 effective megapixels, enabling the capture of images with high-level definition that remains stunning even when considerably enlarged.
Accurate, yet easy and convenient
Despite their high-level sophistication and innovative, advanced features, the COOLPIX 7900/5900 are extremely easy to operate. With a newly designed Graphic User Interface (GUI) that enables the photographer to select functions by either name or icon, it’s so easy to access the desired functions in minimal time. With a large 2.0-inch LCD monitor, composition is made easy and recorded shots can be viewed at any time. The COOLPIX 7900/5900 also come complete with internal memory, enabling them to record images without the need for an SD memory card. And because both cameras have been designed to consume power at a significantly decreased rate, battery life is considerably extended. In fact, the COOLPIX 7900 can take approximately 220 shots* with a fully charged EN-EL5 battery, while the COOLPIX 5900 can take approximately 270 !*
* According to data obtained in accordance with CIPA standards.
Nikon E7900/E5900 Other Features
• Both models feature the same comfortable grip as their highly popular predecessor COOLPIX 5200/4200
• Compact dimensions of 88 x 60 x 36.5mm (3.5 x 2.4 x 1.4in.).
• Light weight of approx. 150g (5.3 oz.) (without battery and memory card)
• Selectable AF: 5-area Auto, 99-area Manual, Center-focus area selection available
• AF-assist illuminator can be switched on and off at will
• 256-segment Matrix Metering
• 7 manual white balance settings and White Balance Bracketing
• Direct printing with PictBridge compatibility
• 4 of the 16 Scene Modes offer Scene Assist (Portrait, Night Portrait, Sports, Landscape)
• World Time function allows local time to be set easily anywhere
• USB compatibility enables swift transfer of image data to computers
• Voice memo function records up to 20 seconds of sound that can then be attached to an image
• All main buttons located on camera back for easy operation
• 4x digital zoom capability
• Choice of Single AF and Continuous AF
• Options for playback: Single, 4- and 9-segment thumbnail, Slideshow, 10x magnification
• Built-in Speedlight: features settings for Auto, Red-eye Reduction by pre-flash, Anytime flash, Flash cancel and Slow sync.
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix 4600
The Nikon Coolpix 5600 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Nikkor Zoom lens. Like the other coolpix models released today it features an automatic red eye reduction editing feature as well as 'D-Lighting' (for in camera editing of poorly lit images). It also has a warning system that alerts the photographer if an image is taken that might be suffering from camera shake.
The Nikon Coolpix 5600 has 14MB of internal memory, takes SD cards for memory expansion and comes in silver, light blue or a light pink color.
Buy the “Nikon Coolpix 5600 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom”
The Nikon Coolpix 5600 is let down by a slow flash recycle rate and metering issues. However, it’s very easy to use, a good price and is able to produce some super shots in ideal conditions.'
PC World reviews the Nikon Coolpix 5600 digital camera and writes - 'The Coolpix 5600 earned high marks in our tests for its accurate reproduction of color and its well-balanced exposures. And though its battery life was shorter than that of some other units we've tested recently, the 5600 outlasted every other new model that uses alkaline batteries, taking photos for 2.5 hours on just two AAs.'
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Nikon Coolpix 5600 and writes -'The Nikon Coolpix 5600 is a compact, stylish and easy-to-use point and shoot digital camera. The scene modes are both numerous and advanced in their implementation and will really help the beginner, and the in-built help system, although limited, will also prove useful. The Nikon Coolpix 5600 has a couple of new features that aim to make the photographer's life easier, both of which work well. D-Lighting was very effective, offering an in-camera solution for revealing detail in the shadow areas of an image without also over-exposing the highlights. The Red-Eye Reduction feature also worked as promised, with no evidence of red-eye.'
Steves Digicams reviews the Nikon Coolpix 5600 and advises - 'The Nikkor 3x optical zoom lens produced sharp results throughout its range, with noticeable barrel distortion at wide angle, with virtually no pin cushioning at the telephoto end of the zoom range. The lens moves smoothly and quietly through its zoom range, but not continuously; I counted 19 steps between wide angle and telephoto, quite adequate for shot composition. Its 35 - 105mm (35mm-equivalent) zoom range is typical for a camera in this class, offering a sufficient field of view for portraits of individuals, small groups, and landscape shots, and enough telephoto magnification to bring your subject closer. The autofocus system complements the lens nicely, producing sharp images in most conditions, however it will fail in low-light situations; this is when an AF-assist lamp would come in handy.'
Imaging Resources has a review of the Nikon Coolpix 5600 and writes - 'Nikon's Coolpix line of consumer digicams has always been well-received, appreciated for their image quality and ease of use. The Coolpix 5600 continues that trend, offering a 5.1-megapixel CCD and nice range of preset scene modes. The Nikon Coolpix 5600 would be a good choice for anyone who wants an easy to use camera that delivers good-looking pictures with pleasing color and plenty of resolution. For those willing to delve just slightly deeper than “just pushing the button,” its extensive scene modes and unique framing-assist options greatly extend the camera's capabilities, making it easy to bring back good-looking shots of what might otherwise be difficult subjects. All in all, a good choice for the point & shoot user looking for an easy to use, compact digicam with a surprising range of capabilities. I would liked to have seen much better low-light focusing and exposure capability, less-noisy flash shots at distances greater than 9 feet, and less color left in images shot under incandescent lighting, but the bottom line is that I think a lot of consumers will be very pleased by the Coolpix 5600's photos, and it clearly goes the extra mile with its scene modes and framing assist options to help novice users bring home good-looking photos.'
Pocket Lint reviews the Nikon Coolpix 5600 digital camera and writes - 'My biggest gripe is saved for last however, and is reserved for the built-in Speedlight flash. Because the 5600 has limited sensitivity and a fairly modest maximum aperture range, the flash comes into play frequently, particularly indoors, but once fired, it takes an age to recharge (even with a fresh set of rechargeable NiMH AA’s in place), also locking the camera up and blanking the screen as it does so. As a snapping-style camera, this makes the 5600 a tad irksome to use as you wait for around three seconds for the files to write to memory and another five seconds for the camera to wake up after the flash has recycled.
PC Mag reviews the Nikon Coolpix 5600 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix 5600's compact form factor harks back to that of the Coolpix 775 (which debuted in 2001), a camera that was quick, light, and fun to use. For Nikon's follow-up, integrating two out of three of these qualities isn't bad, but it isn't so good, either. The 5600 is light and fun to use, but we take issue with its speed—specifically recycle time. That's a shame, because the 5600 (as well as the related 4MP Coolpix 4600 and 7MP Coolpix 7600) is nicely designed and fairly easy to use, and it gives users 16 accurate and versatile scene modes from which to choose.'
Digital Camera Info reviews the Nikon Coolpix 5600 and write - "The Nikon Coolpix 5600 packs a few cool features into a very traditional silver structure. Nikon advertises the camera’s D-Lighting, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, and Scene Assistance functions as effortless alternatives to improve image quality. These functions do work to a degree and will help salvage some improper exposures; however, many of these flaws stem from the camera’s limitations that would not arise on other similarly priced models."
Learn more about the Nikon Coolpix 5600 from the following news release from Nikon announcing it and the coolpix 4600
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix 5600
With a comfortable grip, the COOLPIX 5600/4600 make the user feel at ease and ready to shoot right away. There’s also a range of features that enable beginners to start producing pleasing shots with confidence. A newly designed Graphic User Interface (GUI) allows the user to select functions by either name or icon. A handy “Help” button explains each menu function. Furthermore, both cameras display the menu in a choice of 11 languages. The COOLPIX 5600 and the COOLPIX 4600 feature a large, bright 1.8-inch LCD monitor that makes it easy to compose shots and to view the results. In addition to making operation even more convenient, both cameras have been designed to consume significantly less power — enabling the user to shoot almost twice as many shots with alkaline batteries, for example, in comparison with other entry level Nikon digital cameras.*
The advantage of 5.1 and 4.0 effective megapixels resolution enable the COOLPIX 5600 and COOLPIX 4600 respectively to deliver high image quality exceeding that of most entry level digital compact cameras. They also feature the advantage of a 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens — combining the freedom to compose in different ways with high-quality and reliability, and meanwhile supporting macro shooting from as close as 4cm (1.6 inches).
Furthermore, the COOLPIX 5600/4600 not only allow the user to achieve truly pleasing quality with minimal preparation, but they also stand apart from other cameras in their class with the handy ability to automatically improve the quality of recorded images with the touch of a button. Nikon’s exclusive D-Lighting function, for example, can be selected in Playback mode — automatically recovering and compensating for insufficient flash or excessive back lighting in order to obtain balanced exposure throughout the frame. Nikon’s Advanced In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, on the other hand, has the ability to automatically detect and correct red eyes in-camera in most situations. Both cameras are additionally equipped with Blur Warning, which alerts the user when a shot is compromised by camera shake, allowing another shot to be taken to achieve the optimal result.
Designed with a new high-density integration of key components, the COOLPIX 5600/4600 have been created with compact dimensions. They are also lightweight and easy to carry, making them even more attractive to the day-to-day user. To make operation even simpler, the COOLPIX 5600 and COOLPIX 4600 feature the same handy Scene Modes that have made the COOLPIX lineup such a success and four of them also feature Scene Assistance, enabling virtually anyone to achieve better composition. Scene Modes are easy to use — simply select the mode that most closely fits the subject, such as Sunset or Portrait, then leave the camera to select the appropriate settings automatically. The COOLPIX 5600/4600 also feature an entirely new “Underwater” Scene mode, which produces more satisfying, true-to-life colors when using the optional WP-CP3 waterproof case to shoot scenes while snorkeling or scuba diving. This exciting new addition increases the choice of handy Scene Modes to 16!
A choice of five Color Options allows the photographer to have more fun with digital photography, enabling them to select one before shooting to change the entire feel of a shot by making it sepia or black-and-white, for example. The COOLPIX 5600/4600 also have 14MB of internal memory, which enables images to be recorded without additional memory media. What’s more, they are compatible with SD cards, which enable a large number of shots to be stored and are widely available for purchase.
The COOLPIX 5600 and COOLPIX 4600 make it easy to capture action in an expressive manner with movie shooting capability. Both cameras offer a choice of three different movie modes — TV, Small and Smaller — and the COOLPIX 5600 has the ability to capture video with sound. They can also be easily connected to a TV, making it simple to share the results with friends or family.
Printing is made easy with the COOLPIX 5600/4600. PictBridge compatibility makes it possible to print directly to a compatible printer, without the need for a PC. Both cameras come bundled with Nikon’s own PictureProject software, which is user-friendly and offers a broad selection of versatile functions.
* Under CIPA-compliant test conditions, the Nikon E5600 and Nikon E4600 can shoot almost twice as many shots with alkaline batteries as the Nikon E4100.
Both cameras are compatible with the new dedicated waterproof case, WP-CP3, available as an optional accessory, offering sub-aqua shooting at depths of up to 40 meters.
Sales release schedule: Both cameras as well as the waterproof case, WP-CP3 are scheduled for release in February 2005.
Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.
Nikon COOLPIX 5600/4600 Feature Highlights
Easy operation
The COOLPIX 5600 and COOLPIX 4600 are easy to use. In fact they’ve been designed to appeal not only to beginners of all ages, but also to people who’ve never even considered buying a digital camera before. With a redesigned graphic user interface that lets the user navigate functions by either name or icon, they enable the total beginner to find the right mode at the right moment to achieve pleasing results time after time. There is also a handy new “Help” button that displays a straightforward description for each selected function on the main menu. The COOLPIX 5600/4600 also feature a large 1.8-inch LCD monitor too with increased brightness — making it easy to compose shots and view recorded images at any time. As both cameras have been designed to consume much less power, it is possible to take almost twice as many images when using alkaline batteries in comparison with other entry level digital cameras. Add to these factors Nikon’s high-level reliability and a body design that makes the cameras more comfortable in the hand and it’s easy to see why the COOLPIX 5600 and COOLPIX 4600 are set to become highly popular among beginners and those with no prior interest in digital photography alike.
Shots that impress. Shots you can improve
You shouldn’t have to be an expert photographer to expect pleasingly sharp images with appropriate exposure. In fact, armed with powerful 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor 35-105mm* and 34-102mm* lenses and the clarity of 5.1 and 4.0 megapixels respectively, the COOLPIX 5600/4600 make it easy for even total beginners to produce shots they can be proud of. Furthermore, under certain common circumstances, they allow the user to improve the quality of the results in-camera. The handy Advanced In-Camera Red-Eye Fix function automatically detects, and then corrects red eyes in-camera, turning shots compromised by flash into pleasing night portraits. And the highly impressive D-Lighting function automatically recovers and compensates for excessive back light or insufficient flash — transforming the quality of such recorded images at the touch of a button.
* 35mm [135] equivalent.
Nikon COOLPIX 5600/4600 Other Features:
The Nikon Coolpix 5900 is the little brother to the previously mentioned Coolpix 7900 digital camera. It combines a 5.1 megapixel sensor with a 3x Optical Nikkor ED (extra low disperson) lens.
The Nikon Coolpix 5900 has a large 2inch LCD TFT monitor and has a high performance multi auto focussing system, Face Priority AF mode (which detects faces and ensures they are in focus), 'D-Lighting' for in camera exposure editing in playback mode as well as automatic red eye reduction which detects and edits red eyes all in camera.
The Nikon Coolpix