Aug 23: Canon EOS 5D

The Canon EOS 5D has a feature list that includes a 12.8 megapixel Sensor (full frame), 3 fps till a maximum of 60 with JPG high quality, AF with 9 points, LCD of 2.5 inches, Magnesium body, DIGIC II and USB 2.0.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon EOS 5D at Amazon and compare prices on the 5D at our online store.

Read our Review of the Canon EOS 5D

Canon EOS 5D News Release

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 22 August, 2005 - Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, announces the 12.8 Megapixel EOS 5D, creating a new D-SLR category combining a full frame CMOS sensor with a lightweight, compact magnesium alloy body. Weighing just 810 grams, it features a second generation 35.8 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor, 3 frame per second, 60 Large JPEG frame burst and 0.2 second start up time operation.

�The discreet full frame EOS 5D is the camera many photojournalists and agencies have been asking us for,� said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. �It will be an indispensable piece of equipment for a wide range of professionals � from contemporary wedding to reportage photographers.�

Marking five years since Canon�s first CMOS image sensor appeared in the EOS D30, the release represents Canon�s fifth new CMOS sensor to be released since April 2004. �CMOS sensors are a critical technology advantage driving Canon�s rapid digital SLR development,� remarked Jensen.

Equivalent in size to a frame of 35mm film, the camera�s 35.8 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor gives photographers a full angle of view without magnification or cropping effect. It provides tighter control over depth of field and improves image quality by capturing more light with its large pixels.

Canon EOS 5D Key features

Super responsive, the EOS 5D is driven by the same DIGIC II processor found in Canon�s EOS-1D professional range cameras.

Protected with a rugged yet lightweight magnesium alloy exterior, the camera also features new Picture Style pre-sets, a new hi-resolution 2.5� LCD monitor, 9-point auto focus with 6 invisible Assist AF points to improve tracking performance, compatibility with Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E1, custom mode for fast recall of user defined camera set-ups, USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface for fast downloads and 1/8000 � 30 second shutter speed with X-sync at 1/200s.

The CMOS advantage

With five years of in-house CMOS development since the original EOS D30, Canon�s latest CMOS sensor features 12.8 Megapixels, and the same second-generation on-chip noise reduction circuitry used on the EOS-1Ds Mark II. This effectively suppresses random noise and eliminates fixed-pattern noise for extremely clean, hi-fidelity images. Wide 100-1600 ISO speed range is extendable to L:50 and H:3200. Large 8.2 m pixels allow the capture of a superior dynamic range, enabling the reproduction of subtle tonal gradations in shadow, midtone and highlight areas.

Improved in-camera control

New Picture Style pre-sets simplify in-camera control over image quality. Delivering more immediately usable JPEG images straight out of the camera without need for post-production, Picture Style pre-sets can be likened to different film types � each one offering a different colour response. Within each easily selectable pre-set, photographers have control over sharpness, contrast, colour tone and saturation.

The pre-sets include:

* Standard � for crisp, vivid images that don�t require post-processing;
* Portrait � optimises colour tone and saturation and weakens sharpening to achieve attractive skin tones;
* Landscape � for deep greens and blues with stronger sharpening to give a crisp edge to mountain, tree and building outlines);
* Neutral � ideal for post-processing;
* Faithful � adjusts colour to match the subject colour when shot under a colour temperature of 5200K;
* Monochrome � for black and white shooting with a range of filter effects (yellow, orange, red and green) and toning effects (sepia, blue, purple and green)

Additionally, 3 user-defined entries allow the possibility to create additional variations on the in-camera styles or install additional custom Picture Style files. Additional custom Picture Style files may be downloaded from Canon�s web site.

Picture Style replaces internal image processing previously controlled by setting processing parameters and colour matrix. Picture Style is also supported by the supplied Digital Photo Professional and RAW Image Task software.

New LCD monitor

For improved image review and menu readability, the EOS 5D is fitted with a new large-size high-resolution 2.5� 230K pixel poly-silicon TFT LCD monitor. The improved screen retains brightness and visibility throughout a wide 170� angle of view, both vertically and horizontally, making it easy to view images when the camera is mounted in a fixed position.

Auto focus

A newly developed 9-point auto focus system features 6 additional invisible Assist AF points located inside the spot-metering circle. These points come into effect when the camera is switched to AI SERVO AF with the centre focus point selected and are automatically used to improve the camera�s subject tracking performance.

Ergonomics and control

The �Premium EOS� design features a magnesium alloy exterior with rubberized grip surfaces. The discreet and lightweight compact body measures just 152 x 113 x 75 mm and weighs only 810 g making it two thirds the volume and weight of the EOS-1Ds Mark II.

In a handy new feature, current camera settings can be stored and assigned to the C (camera settings) position on the Mode Dial. This allows photographers to switch quickly between two completely different camera set-ups without having to switch bodies � ideal for photographers who need to rapidly switch their cameras from an indoor to outdoor shooting condition, for example. Exposure mode, ISO speed, AF mode, drive mode, Picture Style, white balance and custom functions are all stored in the custom setting. There are 21 custom functions with 57 user-definable settings to enable photographers to configure the camera for their preferred way of working.

Connectivity

With the optional Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E1, photographers can work cable-free as full-frame image files can be transferred automatically through a wireless LAN to a computer in seconds .

A USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface allows rapid transfer of images from camera to computer, ideal for shooting straight-to-hard-drive with the camera tethered to a computer in a studio environment, thus providing full screen previews of images as they are shot. The EOS 5D also has a Video out interface to allow playback and review on a TV monitor, and is PictBridge compliant to support direct printing to any compatible photo printer without the need for a computer. It takes both CompactFlash Type I and Type II cards, including cards of 2 Gb capacity and larger.

Compatibility and accessories

The EOS 5D offers complete compatibility with all Canon EF lenses , providing photographers with access to a vast range of lenses with focal lengths from 14 to 600 mm.

The camera�s launch coincides with the release of the high performance EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM a lightweight Image Stabilizer lens. Completing Canon�s f/4L-series zoom lens range, the new lens complements the EF17-40mm f/4L USM and EF70-200mm f/4L USM lenses. An ideal match for the lightweight EOS 5D, these lenses are designed for professional photographers requiring high quality lightweight lenses with a fixed aperture throughout the zoom range.

Also compatible with EX series Speedlites and other EOS accessories, the camera provides photographers with a highly adaptable and flexible camera system. Canon�s E-TTL II flash metering ensures accurate flash exposures by taking into account such factors as lens distance information, ambient light readings and the detection of reflective objects in order to calculate flash output.

The BG-E4 is a new battery grip designed especially for the EOS 5D. Constructed with the same magnesium alloy as the camera�s exterior, it has a solid and comfortable hold. The grip can accommodate two BP-511A/514/512/511 battery packs or six AA batteries . The Battery Grip BG-E4 features a shutter release button, AE/FE lock button, AF point selector and main dial to enable comfortable use of the camera when held vertically.

The camera�s focussing screens are interchangeable: in addition to the �Standard Precision Matte� (Ee-A) focussing screen supplied with the camera, �Precision Matte with Grid� (Ee-D) and Super Precision Matte (Ee-S) screens are available.

The EOS 5D supports the optional Data Verification Kit DVK-E2 v2.2, which verifies the authenticity of images taken with the camera.

New software

The EOS 5D is supplied with the EOS Digital Solution Disk v11, which includes a new version of Canon�s Digital Photo Professional (DPP) RAW processing software � now at version 2.0. DPP now supports RAW images shot on all EOS digital cameras from the EOS D30 onwards, and includes support for Picture Styles. Improvements and additions are aimed at improving functionality and workflow efficiency for professionals, and include: easy image selection with three levels of check marks; real-time adjustment of sharpness; improved image correction (Copy Stamp); enhanced image transfer function �single image transfer to PhotoShop is possible; extended colour space support, now including Apple RGB and ColorMatch RGB; and improved usability of the CMYK simulation function.

Also provided is on the EOS Digital Solution Disk v11 is ZoomBrowser EX (PC) and ImageBrowser (MAC) v5.5 for managing images, EOS Capture v1.5 for remote shooting, PhotoStitch v3.1, PhotoRecord v2.2 (PC) and RAW ImageTask v2.2. The EOS 5D is compatible with CANON iMAGE GATEWAY , which provides a 100 MB online photo album.

Comprehensive range

This new category camera adds to Canon�s already comprehensive D-SLR range. In terms of speed and resolution, Canon has the leading performance camera in every D-SLR segment, all launched since April last year:

* EOS-1Ds Mark II � 16.7 Megapixel full frame 35 mm sensor, 4 fps
* EOS-1D Mark II N � 8.2 Megapixel APS-H size sensor, 8.5 fps
* EOS 5D � 12.8 Megapixel full frame sensor, 3 fps
* EOS 20D � 8.2 Megapixel APS-C size sensor, 5 fps
* EOS 350D Digital � 8.0 Megapixel APS-C size sensor, 3 fps

Get the Latest Price and Pre Order the Canon EOS 5D 12.8 MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Canon EOS 5D Reviews

Update: Some have reported that some models of the Canon EOS 5D have banding Problems.

Lets Go Digital has a hands on First Impressions Review of the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'Packed in a room of 3 x 3 meters together with 40 highly interested journalist I finally got where I came for in the first place, the Canon EOS 5D. Amazingly light weighted, around 820 g, and a perfect balanced body are the first things that comes in my mind when holding the Canon 5D in my hands. The new Canon 24 - 105mm F4.0L IS USM lens was mounted on the EOS 5D D-SLR and we found the new Canon BG-E4 battery grip attached to the camera. This new accessory is especially designed for the EOS 5D. The new grip is made from the same material as the camera's exterior; magnesium alloy. The BG-E4 grip accommodates two Canon battery packs or six AA batteries. The grip features a shutter release button, AE/FE lock button, AF point selector and main dial to enable comfortable use of the camera when held vertically. Together the combination feels solid as a rock.'

Luminous Landscape has a good first impression review of the Canon 5D and describes its physical appearance as - 'The easiest way to visualize a 5D is to imagine a Canon 20D that has a somewhat thicker body and larger prism. Because this is a full-frame camera the mirror box needs to be larger than that in a 1.6X factor body, as does the prism, and so the body is somewhat fatter and slightly taller. Indeed, if you mount the accessory battery grip the 5D and the 1Ds MKII is quite similar in size, if not in weight. Note though that while the 5D is based on the paradigm of the 20D, it is a completely new body size.'

Luminous Landscape also has a first impressions review of the Canon EOS 5D which includes image samples. They are pretty impressed so far with the Canon EOS 5D and write - 'I can only tell you that the dynamic range and overall image quality of the 5D sample that I have for testing is as good if not better than the best of the cameras that I've used before.

The photograph Gaze above tells the whole story of the 5D's image quality. It has been slightly cropped at the bottom and right side, and white balance was set using the fur of the stuffed animal. It has been sharpened using Photokit Sharpener. That's all that has been done to the raw file. (Processed with a beta version of Camera Raw). The photograph was taken in the open shade at ISO 400.'

Rob Galbraith also has a good first impression review to the Canon EOS 5D DSLR and writes - 'At first blush, it looks like what Canon has put together is a 20D with a larger sensor. But the camera really represent a hybrid of features, some unique to the 5D, some pulled from the 20D and others it shares with Canon's 1-series digital SLR models (and the EOS-1D Mark II N in particular).

For instance, the control layout of the camera closely mirrors that of the 20D (though the 5D is closer in size to the original EOS-1 without its power booster), the 35-zone metering component is the same, the AF system is an improved version of that found in the 20D, the viewfinder information is nearly identical and the new Battery Grip BG-E4 is similar in design to the 20D's BG-E2.'

DP Review has a good hands on preview of the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'By 'full frame' we mean that the EOS 5D's sensor is (virtually) the same size as a 35 mm negative, this means that lenses used on the camera will produce the exact same field of view as they would on a 35 mm film camera (as they were designed). This is especially advantageous when shooting wide angle as we will get a much wider field of view than we would on a digital SLR which 'crops' (such a the EOS 20D). The diagram below demonstrates the difference in field of view between the EOS 5D and the EOS 20D using the same lens with a focal length of 17 mm. The EOS 20D would only be able to capture a portion of the center of the field of view produced by the lens, the EOS 5D captures the entire view.'

Bob Atkins has a useful comparison of the Canon EOS 5D and EOS 20D and basically asks 'which one'? He writes - 'The price difference is $2000 which isn't insignificant! Though the 5D is a breakthrough in pricing for a full frame camera, it's still out of the reach of many photographers at $3300. For those doing studio work or landscape and editorial shooting, the 5D will be a great camera and I'm sure it will sell very well indeed. For anyone shooting a lot of action, the slightly more expensive ($3999) EOS 1D MkII N, with it's 8.5fps frame rate and 48/22 JPEG/RAW buffer will still probably be the camera of choice. For penurious amateur wildlife shooters who never have a lens long enough to capture their subjects, the 20D probably remains the camera of choice due to its higher pixel density and significantly lower price. The 1Ds Mk II will still command the attention of those wealthy enough to buy it and who need the durability of a fully weather sealed camera with the ultimate in full frame image quality. However I'd guess that the 5D might well eat into 1Ds MkII sales as the $4700 price difference is more than a lot of people will be able to justify.'

Luminous Landscape has a field report review of the Canon EOS 5D DSLR in which they rate the 5D pretty highly writing - 'The bottom line then is this � the Canon 5D is an immensely satisfying camera. In a physical size, weight and form factor it is little different than the mainstream of 5 � 8 Megapixel APS sized cameras. But Canon has, with the 5D, provided photographers with a full-frame 35mm of sufficient resolution � 12.8 Megapixel � to meet the print and reproduction size needs of the vast majority of serious photographers. Image quality, whether at normal or at high ISO, is as good as it currently gets.'

Virtual Traveller has a review which compares the Canon EOS 5D and the Canon EOS 20. The 5D reviewed has a 24-105 f4L IS USM lens and the 20D has a 17-85 f4-5.6 IS USM lens. They write - ' The 5D and 24-105L combination is better than the 20D and 17-85. No surprise there. Really, the results of my tests are that there are no surprises. The 5D is as good as I expected it to be, and I expected it to be amazing. For my travel purposes, it is better than the chunky EOS 1Ds, making it the best camera currently available, indeed the best camera ever.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Canon EOS 5D where they conclude - 'I am convinced that the EOS 5D is not the end of a period but the start of a whole new interesting era; a time with affordable cameras that combine a high resolution and an outstanding image quality. The Canon 5D has truly impressed me and I reluctantly returned it to Canon. The Canon 5D is a more than recommendable camera, it's an absolute must for the Pro, but also for those who'd like to go on to a higher level, an excelling camera!'

DP Review has reviewed the Canon EOS 5D and gives it a 'highly recommended' rating. They recommend - 'The EOS 5D is a fantastic photographic tool which is capable of producing really excellent results. The caveat is that it takes a little more care and understanding of your equipment (especially lenses). We found resolution to be absolutely excellent with crisp detailed results straight from the camera (JPEG) and even more detail available if you shoot RAW. Different 'looks' can be easily achieved via Picture Styles (almost like changing film) and the range of in-camera image parameters has been expanded. Noise levels are essentially identical to the EOS 20D as is dynamic range, this is neither a surprise or a disappointment, it simply means consistency and the maintaining of an expectation built by Canon in the performance of its CMOS sensor.'

CNET reviews the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'For some photographers, a sensor the same size as a frame of 35mm film (24mm by 36mm)--often referred to as full frame--is the Holy Grail of digital SLR technology. It promises the familiar shooting experience in viewfinder size, in lens angle of view, and in certain aspects of a picture's look. Until now, this object of lust was available only at great expense ($7,000 or more) or in cameras with significant design and performance quirks. But Canon's EOS 5D changes that, combining a 12.8-megapixel, 23.9mm-by-35.8mm CMOS sensor with a competent midsize SLR body for less than half the price of the only full-frame alternative available at this writing, also a Canon, the EOS-1Ds Mark II.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon EOS 5D SLR and writes - 'With its 12.8-megapixel full-frame imager, accurate autofocus system, precise metering system and responsive performance, the EOS-5D fills a big gap in Canon's dSLR product line between the 20D and 1DS Mark II. To some users of Canons Digital Rebel/10D/20D dSLR's, the 5D's combination of additional resolution, high-ISO image quality and wide angle-friendly full frame image sensor will be very attractive. But the camera body is only part of the system and, depending on your existing inventory of lenses and computer equipment, an upgrade to the 5D may cost far more than its $3300 MSRP would suggest. To realize the best that the 5D is capable of delivering, you'll need Canon's professional L-series lenses, whose total cost may exceed that of the camera body. In addition, the file sizes of the 5D's 12.8-megapixel images are enormous, requiring additional CF memory capacity and placing even more demands on your digital darkroom; additional RAM and hard disk capacity may be required, and a DVD-RW drive would be recommended for archiving your work.'

Popular Photography reviews the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'The EOS 5D appears to follow a path between two extremes. On the yin side, its full-frame sensor gives photographers the advantages of the expensive EOS 1Ds Mark II and the best image quality you can find in a sub-$3,500 DSLR. On the yang side, its construction, size, and array of features are closer to those offered by the APS-sensored EOS 20D. Now if it only cost less, more photographers would reach nirvana.'

Bob Atkins reviews the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'The EOS 5D is a good compromise for a significant number of photographers. It combines high image quality with the ability to fully utilize EF series wideangle lenses (like the EF 16-35/2.8L). If 3fps is a fast enough frame rate (and for most photographers, it is) and don't need to regularly shoot outdoors in pouring rain, at around $4200 less than it's nearest full frame competitor (the EOS 1Ds Mk II) it's a very attractive camera. Under most shooting circumstances it produces higher quality images than the EOS 20D and it's undeniably a nicer camera to use with the larger viewfinder, clearer LCD screen and additional firmware functions such as the style modes and RGB histogram. There are circumstances under which it is possible for the EOS 20D to outperform the EOS 5D, specifically if the 5D image must be cropped because of the lack of a long enough lens - but obvious solution for this dilemma is of course is to buy both an EOS 5D and an EOS 20D for backup - and get the best of both worlds! That would still be about $3000 cheaper than buying an EOS 1Ds Mk II.'

Imaging Resource has posted a comprehensive review of the Canon EOS-5D Digital Camera where they write - 'In addition to all the test results and analysis, we did notice something intangible in the images coming from the Canon EOS 5D. Others have mentioned it too: greater detail in the shadows, and a finer tonal range that give the images a special glow that you don't get from a 20D or 30D. We do notice a difference in the tonal curves on the 5D, which might account for the unique flavor 5D images seem to have. For the record, we highly recommend the Canon EOS 5D as a full-frame d-SLR option, but do counsel readers to consider their sub-frame options carefully before taking the plunge with a 5D.'

Shutterbug reviews the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'Personally, I would feel secure paying the tab for a 5D, especially if I were doing photography for business and profit. But these are unsettled times and the road ahead seems to be enveloped in fog. I can�t speak for what the future will hold, but if a great performing camera is what you want and need, and you have the courage, go for it. It seems to me, from what I�ve experienced using the Canon EOS 5D, it�s unlikely to disappoint.'

Digital Camera Info has posted a review with a comparison of the Nikon D200 vs. Canon EOS 5D. They compare them on a number of different aspects and conclude by writing - 'The D200 is a much faster camera with a more logical ergonomic design. With the Nikon, users can turn the camera on and snap off a shot in a single motion - an action that would require two hands and far more time with the 5D. The D200 can also shoot 5 frames a second, while the 5D can only muster 3. This combined with the D200�s more robust body (not to mention its more affordable price tag), makes it a much more formidable alternative for photojournalists or casual shooters. At lower sensitivity settings (ISO 100-400), the two cameras produce images of comparable quality in terms of noise, color, dynamic range and sharpness. While the 5D still retains a slight edge, the difference is negligible for the quality both cameras produce. However, once the sensitivity is pushed to ISO 400 and beyond, Canon earns the extra $1,300 tacked on the 5D�s price tag. At sensitivity settings beyond ISO 500, the 5D continues to create images of exception quality, while the D200 falters and produces results more consistent with consumer-level designs.'

Pro photographer Sean Reid from Imaging Resource has posted a second review of the Canon EOS-5D DSLR and writes - 'All things considered, this is the best DSLR, for my own work, that I have ever used. I do primarily three kinds of photography. The first is work that I assign myself and this often takes the form of projects that can last for several years. The best of that work is eventually edited, printed and used for exhibition. Unless I'm working on something where I want to be very close to the subject (macro) or very far from the subject (telephoto) I usually prefer to work with my R-D1 rangefinders. That is unless I need the drawing of the pictures to be more like medium format - for that I once used the 1Ds and now use the 5D. I also now use the 5D for my personal work with subjects that are very close or very far. If I need a silent camera or want the kind of drawing that only a small-sensor camera can provide, I tend to use a Leica Digilux 2.'

Camera Labs reviews the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'Build-wise the EOS-5D may be little more than a 20D or 30D with a higher resolution, full-frame sensor, but the resolving power is a big step-up from 6 and 8 Megapixel cameras, and while you may need technical charts to notice any detail advantage over Nikon's D200, the benefits of the low noise full-frame sensor are clear and rivalled only by Canon's high-end 1Ds Mark II. Sure, you may need to match the 5D with high quality optics, but Canon's range of f4.0 L models are relatively affordable - and while the 24-105mm f4.0L is an ideal all-rounder, it's the 17-40mm f4.0L which really shows off the sensor's potential coverage.'

ePhotozine reviews the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'The Canon EOS 5D is a very capable camera, which produces silky smooth images right up to ISO400 and beyond that, noise levels are still very well controlled thanks in part to the full frame sensor. Sensor size is also to blame for another trait, vignetting with wide angle lenses is a real problem if you like to shoot wide open. Value for money is the EOS 5D's weakest point. With an RRP of £2540, that makes this camera cost £1240 more than the rival Nikon D200 (based on RRP's), with what appears to be only a marginal gain in image quality. Of course this only applies with the right lenses, which are also costly.'

Think Camera reviews the Canon EOS 5D DSLR and writes - 'The EOS 5D isn't the ideal camera for everyone and there are some minor compromises as well as some excellent features. It isn't a point and shoot camera by any means and both the body and the price tag are substantial - but it's smaller and better priced than many full-frame sensor cameras. If this is your first foray up the chain of D-SLR's and you don't want to spend too much first time round, the EOS-5D is a good starting point. Performance is neither exceptional nor lacking: for example whilst it doesn't compete with extra-fast models designed for sports photography, you won't find it slowing you down even when you're shooting in RAW. It should be viewed as a very good prosumer camera rather than a professional one - many pros use it but they are generally happier to work within its limitations than spend 3 times as much on a 1DS MkII.'

Read our Review of the Canon EOS 5D

Get the Latest Price on the Canon EOS 5D at Amazon and compare prices on the 5D at our online store.

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Aug 23: New Canon Pixma Printers

Canon have been busy announcing new digital cameras today but today they've also added a number of new printers to their Pixma range. We've updated details of these printers at our Printer News Blog. They are:

Canon Pixma MP150
Canon Pixma MP170
Canon Pixma MP450
Canon Pixma MP500
Canon Pixma MP800
Canon Pixma iP2200
Canon Pixma iP1600
Canon Pixma iP4200
Canon Pixma iP5200 and iP5200R
Canon Pixma iP6600D

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Aug 22: Canon PowerShot SD30 - IXUS i Zoom

The Canon PowerShot SD30 (also known as the IXUS i) is a 5.0 megapixel camera with a 2.4x Optical Zoom and 1.8 inch LCD. It also features USB 2.0 and comes in four colors (see picture).

The Canon Powershot SD30 will retail for $399 (USD).

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD30

Canon Powershot SD30 (IXUS i) News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the Digital IXUS i zoom. Building on the Digital IXUS i 5 performance and chic design, the Digital IXUS i zoom adds a 2.4x optical zoom and embraces the perpetual curve design of its big brother, the Digital IXUS 750.

The sleek and compact Digital IXUS i zoom comes with 5.0 Megapixels and DIGIC II processing for high image quality and a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface for fast transfer speeds. The supplied Camera Station allows for easy connectivity to the PC, printer and television – perfect for viewing contemporary slide shows created by the camera. The Camera Station also charges the camera when docked.

The Digital IXUS i zoom is available in an array of striking colours: Jet (Black), Sahara (Gold), Cranberry (Red) and Ultra-violet. A silky finish completes the look and feel of this ultimate digital accessory.

Sleek, stylish, better

A first for Digital IXUS i cameras, the Digital IXUS i zoom now features a 2.4x (f/3.2 – f/5.4) optical zoom, with a high contrast Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical lens for sharp results in a slim package. When combined with digital zoom, the Digital IXUS i zoom delivers 10x magnification. The Digital IXUS i zoom’s 5.0 Megapixel sensor delivers the image quality required for printing up to A3 photo prints. The new focusing system is both faster and more power efficient, making the auto focus more responsive and helping to extend the number of shots possible before charging the battery.

The Digital IXUS i zoom maintains its small size whilst improving the user’s shooting and reviewing experience with the larger 1.8“ LCD monitor. Improvements in the user interface include larger animated icons and the addition of a world time zone display. The menu can also be displayed in 22 different languages.

A clever Camera Station

For fast and convenient charging, printing, downloading and connection to televisions and home cinema systems, the Digital IXUS i zoom comes complete with a Camera Station (CS-DC1). The station acts as a dock, or cradle, for the camera, ensuring quick and easy connectivity without having to attach and reattach multiple cables. The supplied wireless controller allows the docked camera’s playback to be operated remotely. This allows the new slideshow and playback features on the Digital IXUS i zoom to be controlled from the comfort from the user’s sofa when sharing photos and movies on television screens. When connected to both a direct printer and TV, users can view their images and use the print menu on screen to edit then print.

Advanced technology

The DIGIC II processor ensures that the images recorded have superb colour quality, as well as giving the camera improved performance overall. iSAPS technology assesses the scene and adjusts the camera settings to achieve the optimum results. For rapid transfer of images, the Digital IXUS i zoom utilises a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface.

Shooting modes and special effects

The Digital IXUS i zoom features 9-point AiAF to keep even off-centre subjects sharply in focus. With 16 different shooting modes, the camera’s settings are optimised for a wide range of situations. A selection can be made from Auto, Manual, Macro, Portrait, Landscape and Night Snapshot modes, or from the Scene Modes which now include an underwater setting, allowing users to take advantage of the optional All Weather Case (AW-DC40 – waterproof to 3 metres). With the addition of My Colors, users of the Digital IXUS i zoom can become more creative in their digital photography. Special effects such as Color Swap or Custom Colors can be performed in camera while shooting both stills and movies. Previously, this level of image enhancement was only possible after downloading to a PC, and using specialised software.

Intelligent Orientation Sensor

The Digital IXUS i zoom incorporates an Intelligent Orientation Sensor that automatically rotates images for review, regardless of the orientation of the camera. The sensor also activates the FUNC/SET button at the rear of the camera to act as the shutter release when it detects that the camera is in the vertical orientation. This allows the operator to shoot stills in portrait orientation, using one hand, whilst maintaining camera balance.

More than just photos

Users can record movies with sound up to 1 GB or 60 minutes long, whichever is reached first. Digital zoom can be used whilst shooting. As well as being able to select from VGA and QVGA (at 10fps and 20fps respectively), the Compact Movie mode (QQVGA / 15fps) is designed to make sharing movies via email as simple as possible.

Printing images

When used in combination with Canon’s new Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP710 and Canon’s Ink and Paper Set (KP-108IP), prints can be produced for just 30 euro cents each. With its optional Rechargeable Battery Pack (NB-CP2L), the Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP710 is highly portable, just like the compact Digital IXUS i zoom, making them ideal partners. Printing via a SELPHY CP Compact Photo Printer also allows the user to print handy ID prints and movie prints. When connected to the latest range of PictBridge compatible PIXMA printers (also released today) image enhancement is possible with functions including Noise Reduction and Vivid Photo, as well as the new Face Brightener feature.

Printing of images without having to connect to a PC is also made simpler via the Print/Share button, which also acts as an easy upload button for Windows XP and Mac OS X systems.

Comprehensive software

The Digital IXUS i zoom comes bundled with the following Canon Software:

* ZoomBrowser EX 5.5, PhotoRecord 2.2 (Windows), ImageBrowser 5.5 (Macintosh): For easy image download, storage and retrieval, as well as management of image layout and printing.
* PhotoStitch 3.1: Creates stunning panoramas and can be used with Windows and Macintosh.
* Movie Edit Task: For easy editing and enhancement of movie footage recorded on the Digital IXUS i zoom and easily accessed through ZoomBrowser and ImageBrowser.

Also included is ArcSoft PhotoStudio photo manipulation software.

Purchasers of the Digital IXUS i zoom are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, which offers 100 MB of online space for uploading and sharing images. Membership also allows users to download start-up images and sounds to customise their My Camera settings.

The bundled software supports Windows 98 (SE), ME, 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1/3) and Macintosh OS X v10.2-v10.3. The Digital IXUS i zoom supports PTP for driverless transfer to supported Windows XP or Macintosh OS X systems.

Accessories

A range of accessories is available to complement the Digital IXUS i zoom. Accessories include an All-Weather Case (AW-DC40), High Power Flash (HF-DC1), Compact Power Adapter (CA-DC20E),
Battery Charger (CB-2LVE), and the Digital IXUS Metal Strap. The Digital IXUS i zoom is compatible with SD and MMC Memory Cards, and comes complete with a 16 MB SD Memory Card.'

Canon Powershot SD30 Reviews

Digital Camera Resource Page reviews the Canon PowerShot SD30 Digital ELPH and writes - 'The SD30's photo quality is good in most respects. Outdoors it takes smooth-looking photos with accurate color and low noise levels. Corner softness i was an issue in some of my real world photos. Indoors you'll be disappointed with the camera's weak flash and high redeye, which is why this camera is best suited to the outdoors. Noise levels in long exposures were a bit higher than I would've liked. Also disappointing was the camera's movie mode, which isn't nearly as good as those on the other cameras in the SD series.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot SD30 and writes - 'if you're in the market for a stylish little point-n-shoot that can be tucked away just about anywhere, the Canon PowerShot SD30 Digital Elph might be the camera for you. It offers great image quality and performance, all with the features and quality we have come to expect from Canon. The only negatives I found were the awkwardness of the Zoom controls and the slow frame rate of the VGA movie mode. With 5-megapixels there's enough resolution to create up to 13x19-inch size prints or cropped prints of a smaller size. The SD30 has an MSRP of around $399, which nowadays is rather expensive for a consumer digicam.'

Megapixel reviews the Canon Powershot SD30 and writes - 'Based on its specs alone, the PowerShot SD30 is a fairly standard camera: it has a 2.4X optical zoom � a touch shorter than many of its competitors � a compact size, a 5-megapixel resolution, a 1.8 inch LCD monitor, and SD memory compatibility. What differentiates it from the rest of the cameras occupying that particular segment of the marketplace, is that it has a stylish exterior that can be had in a variety of colours, and a Camera Station � a docking cradle � that makes it simple to connect the camera to a computer, a printer, a television, or simply to recharge its battery.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot SD30 and writes - 'An upgrade to last year's SD20 model, the SD30 adds a zoom lens (a particularly welcome addition), and makes noticeable strides in shooting performance, with a faster shutter response, and significantly better shot to shot cycle times. 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 surprisingly responsive for a subcompact digital camera. The wireless remote is a big plus if you like to display slide shows on your TV set, too. '

Lets Go Digital reviews the Canon Digital IXUS i Zoom Digital Camera and writes - 'Concluding we may say that Canon once again added an excellent digital camera to the rich Digital IXUS range of cameras. The Canon Digital IXUS i Zoom is not perfect but the target group will certainly appreciate this camera. It has its limits but on the other side; it offers a heck of a lot too. The scales definitely turn to a positive appraisal. As a point-and-shoot camera the IXUS i Zoom is a resounding success. It's not a versatile digital camera but Canon doesn't pretend that either. A beautiful design combined with excellent user friendliness has to guarantee success. A recommendable camera for the user that is looking for a trendy design, fine photo quality and user friendliness! '

BIOS reviews the Canon IXUS iZoom (also known as the Powershot SD30) and gives it a rating of 7 out of 10. They write - 'The Digital IXUS i zoom is aimed at general users looking for effortless point-and-shoot operation, so you shouldn�t expect top-end picture quality. Images taken generally turned out well in our tests, though night photos were a little disappointing (too dark). Another downside is that the microphone is positioned beside the shutter button, meaning you�ll likely fully cover it when shooting movies. On a more positive note, the camera�s removable Lithium-ion battery should last approximately 250 photos on a single charge, and the time-to-first shot of about 3 seconds means you shouldn�t miss out on any spontaneous shots.'

Photoxels reviews the Canon PowerShot SD30 Digital ELPH and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot SD30 Digital ELPH is a beautiful ultra compact digital camera that gives great looking pictures. If you take a lot of flash pictures, the results come out very good as long as your subject is portrait distance away (i.e. waist shot). It looks really good in black (with silver/chrome accents), but if you fancy something in another colour, it also comes in red, gold or violet.'

Pocket Lint reviews the Canon IXUS i Zoom digital camera where they give it a rating of 8 out of 10 and write in their review - 'The IXUS i Zoom is a stunning-looking, petit package that can create high resolution snaps to be proud of. There�s only a modicum of manual control making this less suitable for the more enthusiast user and its RRP is tad pricey, though you�ll be sure to pay less online or the High Street. But, it�s a gem, slightly flawed yes, but a gem none the less.'

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Aug 22: Canon PowerShot A620

The Canon PowerShot A620 is a 7.1 megapixel digital cameara with a 4x Optical Zoom, 2.0 inch vari-angle opening LCD, 1cm macro mode, USB 2.0 and 30 frames per second VGA movie mode.

The Canon Powershot A620 will retail for $399. Learn more about the A210 from the following news release announcing it an it's little brother - the Powershot A610.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot A620

Canon Powershot A620 News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces its latest high performance compact digital still cameras, the PowerShot A620 and PowerShot A610. With 7.1 and 5.0 Megapixels, respectively, the cameras incorporate a host of high-end features normally reserved for G-series PowerShots. DIGIC II processors drive a fast, responsive performance, and – in combination with the cameras’ 4x optical zoom lenses – deliver superior image quality. A wide range of manual, automatic and special scene modes offer flexibility, creative control, and simplicity when required.

The cameras also feature a 2.0“ vari-angle LCD, My Colors, and a macro mode that allows photographers to get as close as 1 cm. VGA movies at 30 fps can be created with both models. A complete range of optional accessories, including wide and tele-converters and waterproof case, extends shooting flexibility. A comprehensive software suite is provided as standard. The A620 and A610 are both equipped with a Print/Share button, PictBridge printing as well as ID Photo Print and Movie Print . USB 2.0 Hi-Speed connections provide for high-speed transfer of image data.

”We regard the PowerShot A620 and PowerShot A610 as mini-G cameras – offering G-series performance, but retaining an A-series price,“ said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. ”With an impressive range of high-end features, these cameras offer photography enthusiasts advanced control and flexibility.“

Improved resolution, zoom and image quality

Replacing the popular PowerShot A95, the new cameras have been given a serious performance boost. While the A610 features a 5.0 Megapixel CCD sensor, the A620 boasts 7.1 Megapixels – both delivering image quality suitable for detailed photo prints up to A3 size and allowing substantial cropping without loss of print quality.

Precision Canon zoom lenses in these new cameras follow the design and construction of G-series lenses, with eight elements in seven groups, and incorporating two aspherical elements. The upgrade to a 4x optical zoom provides a 35–140 mm focal length (35 mm equivalent). With a maximum aperture range of f/2.8 (W) to f/4.1 (T), the lenses are impressively bright at the telephoto end. In addition, focusing performance in low light has improved by up to 2-stops, resulting in greater freedom when shooting in dim conditions.

The lenses’ spectral characteristics have been optimised specifically for the configuration of the lens and sensor, providing accurate colours and significantly reducing the chromatic aberrations (such as purple fringing) often found with lower quality lenses.

Advanced processing and focussing

The addition of Canon’s advanced DIGIC II image processor results in faster and more responsive cameras that deliver improved image quality. Focusing time has been cut by around 60%, and shutter lag is negligible at no more than 0.1 seconds. Smooth continuous shooting is now available at approximately 1.9 fps (A620) and approximately 2.4 fps (A610). With DIGIC II’s superior assessment of white balance, colour rendition accuracy is increased.

The new PowerShots still feature Canon’s 9-point AiAF for fast, accurate focusing even when subjects are not centred. FlexiZone AF/AE allows free scrolling anywhere within the frame's auto focus area to select the desired subject, for which exposure is weighted accordingly. Manual focus selection is also available.

Increased versatility

A larger 2.0” vari-angle LCD offers users great versatility in composing shots from awkward angles, such as from ground or waist level, above the head and when shooting self portraits. The selectable grid line display helps with composition and levelling horizons.

The A620 and A610 incorporate a total of 20 shooting modes, including full Manual mode, a Custom mode for allocating preferred shooting settings, and a shutter speed priority mode, with shutter speeds ranging from 15 seconds to 1/2500 second. Eight scene modes – such as Night Snapshot, Snow and Underwater – maximise results in a variety of shooting situations. The Stitch Assist mode facilitates shooting pictures for panoramas, which can be joined together easily with the supplied PhotoStitch software. My Colors – located on the mode dial – allows the expansion of creativity in digital photography. Special effects, such as Color Swap or Custom Color, which allows users to select their preferred colour balance for any given shot, can be performed in-camera and viewed on the LCD while shooting stills and movies. These effects could previously only be achieved using PC software after shooting.

High quality movies are selectable from VGA (30/15fps), QVGA (30/15fps), Fast Frame Rate (for slow motion replays in camera), and Compact mode (for clips that are ideal for emailing).

Accessories to enhance

A complete range of optional accessories is available to extend the capabilities of the cameras. The new Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC58F, has been designed to fit these models. Both the Wide Converter Lens WC-DC58N (0.7x) and Tele-converter lens TC-DC58N (1.75x) increase framing options and extend the camera’s effective focal length range.

The dedicated Waterproof Case WP-DC90 – submersible to 40 m – is constructed with anti-fog double glass and a flash light diffusion plate. Separate Waterproof Case Weights WW-DC1 are available for controlling buoyancy. Other accessories include the AC Adapter Kit ACK600, the Battery Charger Kit CBK4-200 with four NiMH batteries, and the Soft Case DCC-300.

Advanced printing

When used in combination with Canon’s new Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP510 and Canon’s Ink and Paper Set (KP-108IP), prints can be produced for just 30 euro cents each. Printing via SELPHY CP Compact Photo Printers also allows the user to print handy ID Photo prints and movie prints.

When connected to the latest range of PictBridge compatible PIXMA printers (also released today), image enhancement is possible with functions such as Noise Reduction and Vivid Photo, as well as the new Face Brightener feature. Also new is Captured Info print, which prints shooting data such as shutter speed, aperture and shooting mode within the photo border .
Printing images without having to connect to a PC is kept simple with the Print/Share button, which also acts as an easy upload button for Windows XP and Mac OS X.

Comprehensive software

The new cameras come bundled with a comprehensive software suite, including Canon’s browsing and printing software ZoomBrowser EX 5.5 (Windows) and ImageBrowser 5.5 (Mac), easy printing software PhotoRecord 2.2 and PhotoStitch 3.1 for creating stunning panoramas. Also included is the photo manipulation software, ArcSoft PhotoStudio.

Purchasers of the cameras are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY , which offers 100MB of online space for uploading and sharing images, and supports My Camera, which allows users to further customise their camera settings.

Supported operating systems are Windows 98 (SE), Me, 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1/2) and Mac OS X v10.2-v10.3. The cameras support PTP for driverless transfer to supported Windows XP or Mac OS X.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot A620

Canon Powershot A620 Reviews

CNET Reviews has posted a review the Canon PowerShot A620 and writes - 'Sliding easily to the head of Canon's A-series line, the 7-megapixel PowerShot A620 (and its 5-megapixel sibling, the PowerShot A610) steps comfortably into the large shoes worn by the wildly popular PowerShot A95. With a 4X optical zoom that spans a useful 35mm-to-140mm (35mm-equivalent) range, the Canon PowerShot A620 keeps up the A95's tradition of packing full manual controls and a solid list of scene modes into an easy-to-use, moderately sized camera that will meet the needs of a broad spectrum of photographers. Given the A620's improved performance, higher-quality movie clips, larger LCD, G-series lens, and high resolution, some current PowerShot A95 users may even want to consider an upgrade.'

DCRP Reivew has reviewed the Canon PowerShot A620 and writes - 'The A620 performs very well for a lower priced camera. It starts up in just 1.2 seconds, it focuses quickly, and shutter lag was not a problem. Shot-to-shot and playback speeds were also very good. In low light situations the camera focused accurately thanks to its AF-assist lamp. The PowerShot A620 shines in other areas as well. Its movie and continuous shooting modes are very good, assuming that you're using a high speed SD card. With that you can record up to 1GB of continuous VGA video with sound, or keep taking photos at 1.9 frames/second until the memory card is full. If you use high power NiMH batteries the A620 beats all of the competition in terms of battery life -- too bad Canon doesn't include any with the camera!'

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot A620 digital camera and writes - 'Canon has struck gold with this winning combination of high-quality and low price. The A620 offers users outstanding image quality with robust performance, all in a stylish and very durable package. With its wealth of exposure modes, your entire family will love using it, and with 7-megapixels of resolution you can create endless 13x19-inch prints (just be sure you have lots of ink handy.) With an MSRP of around $399, the Canon PowerShot A620 offers an excellent value and is definitely one our pics for 2005.'

DP Review has reviewed the Canon PowerShot A620 and gives it a rating of 'Highly Recommended'. They write - 'Not only does it boast a much better sensor, but the use of the latest DIGIC II processor means it's a lot, lot faster in operation too. There is very little here to suggest a 'budget' model at all; image quality is excellent, it's very well built, it handles well and it has a real wealth of photographic features that make it suitable for everyone from the absolute beginner to the more experienced photographer wanting lots of control over the picture taking process. And like the A95 it's a great first camera for anyone wanting to learn the craft of photography, being both affordable and well-specified enough to grow with you as your knowledge and experience increases.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot A620 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot A620 is an estimable addition at the top of that line, sporting a 7-megapixel CCD and a very good quality 4x optical zoom lens. It offers everything from fully automatic to fully manual exposure control, with a healthy set of scene modes thrown in to make it easy to bring back great-looking photos from what might otherwise be challenging situations.Thanks to its high-speed DIGIC-II processing chip, it's also very responsive, and its movie capability is impressive as well. We've generally found that the current crop of 7-megapixel cameras do better in terms of image noise than many of their lower-resolution cousins, and the A620 follows suit, with surprisingly good-looking images even at ISO 400. (Even 8x10" prints on our Canon i9900 studio printer made from the A620's ISO 400 shots were quite acceptable, a noticeably better than we've come to expect from consumer-level digital cameras operating at that ISO level.) '

Megapixel reviews the Canon Powershot A620 and writes - 'The PowerShot A620, the current flagship of the A-series, is an excellent example of a camera that integrates some the most recent developments in digital photography such as a 7-megapixel CCD, while remaining affordable. Although a compact camera in a mostly plastic body, the A620 is equipped with a 2-inch pivoting LCD monitor and yet still has an optical viewfinder, and provides a 4X zoom lens when most others only have 3X zooms.'

Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Canon Powershot A620 and writes - 'The Canon Powershot A620 is another excellent entry into the market from Canon. Along with its 5 megapixel brother, it makes an excellent upgrade to the model that it replaces, the A95. The DIGIC II processor makes for a much better shooting experience with quicker operation and better battery life. A larger LCD and a longer optical zoom also make this replacement attractive. The shooting modes of the camera are impressive as well, with multiple degrees of manual control and the fun My Colors mode (you can take a picture of your car in a different color).'

PhotographyBLOG reviews the Canon PowerShot A620 and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot A620 is another winner from Canon. 7 megapixels, 4x optical zoom lens, a fold-out, twisting LCD screen, the usual excellent Canon image quality and general quick responsiveness (thanks to the Digic II processor) make this a great all-round camera. Even better for the aspiring shutterbug, the A620 also offers a complete range of photographic controls, perfect for those who want to take charge. And perhaps the best news of all, the Canon PowerShot A620 costs just over �200/$300 - I can't think of another camera that offers such good value.'

Digital Camera Info has posted review of the 7.1 megapixel Canon PowerShot A620. They give it a mixed review writing - 'Despite all this, the Canon PowerShot A620 is still a good deal. It offers automatic, scene, and priority modes for beginners. It also has a manual mode where users can adjust the shutter speeds and apertures for themselves. There are live views to facilitate the transition from automatic to manual. And the camera�s heavy four battery setup gives it fantastic battery life, with 350 shots per batch. The Canon A620 retailed for $399 when it was first introduced to the market, but can be found for a hundred bucks less now � making it one of the best deals for users after a pocket camera with manual functions.'

Lets Go Digital review the Canon PowerShot A620 where they write - 'In practice the Canon PowerShot A620 is a pleasure to use. Apparently, Canon has made a good concept even better and this makes the Canon A620 an absolute first amongst amateur cameras. Canon's success seems unstoppable. The Canon PowerShot A620 is eminently suitable for both the beginner as well as the more demanding photographer. Conclusion: it's a winner!' They give it a rating of 77%.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot A620

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Aug 22: Canon PowerShot A610

The Canon PowerShot A610 is a 5 megapixel digital cameara with a 4x Optical Zoom, 2.0 inch vari-angle opening LCD, 1cm macro mode, USB 2.0 and 30 frames per second VGA movie mode.

The Canon Powershot A610 will retail for $299. Learn more about the A610 from the following news release announcing it an it's big brother - the Powershot A620.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot A610

Canon Power Shot A610 News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces its latest high performance compact digital still cameras, the PowerShot A620 and PowerShot A610. With 7.1 and 5.0 Megapixels, respectively, the cameras incorporate a host of high-end features normally reserved for G-series PowerShots. DIGIC II processors drive a fast, responsive performance, and – in combination with the cameras’ 4x optical zoom lenses – deliver superior image quality. A wide range of manual, automatic and special scene modes offer flexibility, creative control, and simplicity when required.

The cameras also feature a 2.0“ vari-angle LCD, My Colors, and a macro mode that allows photographers to get as close as 1 cm. VGA movies at 30 fps can be created with both models. A complete range of optional accessories, including wide and tele-converters and waterproof case, extends shooting flexibility. A comprehensive software suite is provided as standard. The A620 and A610 are both equipped with a Print/Share button, PictBridge printing as well as ID Photo Print and Movie Print . USB 2.0 Hi-Speed connections provide for high-speed transfer of image data.

”We regard the PowerShot A620 and PowerShot A610 as mini-G cameras – offering G-series performance, but retaining an A-series price,“ said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. ”With an impressive range of high-end features, these cameras offer photography enthusiasts advanced control and flexibility.“

Improved resolution, zoom and image quality

Replacing the popular PowerShot A95, the new cameras have been given a serious performance boost. While the A610 features a 5.0 Megapixel CCD sensor, the A620 boasts 7.1 Megapixels – both delivering image quality suitable for detailed photo prints up to A3 size and allowing substantial cropping without loss of print quality.

Precision Canon zoom lenses in these new cameras follow the design and construction of G-series lenses, with eight elements in seven groups, and incorporating two aspherical elements. The upgrade to a 4x optical zoom provides a 35–140 mm focal length (35 mm equivalent). With a maximum aperture range of f/2.8 (W) to f/4.1 (T), the lenses are impressively bright at the telephoto end. In addition, focusing performance in low light has improved by up to 2-stops, resulting in greater freedom when shooting in dim conditions.

The lenses’ spectral characteristics have been optimised specifically for the configuration of the lens and sensor, providing accurate colours and significantly reducing the chromatic aberrations (such as purple fringing) often found with lower quality lenses.

Advanced processing and focussing

The addition of Canon’s advanced DIGIC II image processor results in faster and more responsive cameras that deliver improved image quality. Focusing time has been cut by around 60%, and shutter lag is negligible at no more than 0.1 seconds. Smooth continuous shooting is now available at approximately 1.9 fps (A620) and approximately 2.4 fps (A610). With DIGIC II’s superior assessment of white balance, colour rendition accuracy is increased.

The new PowerShots still feature Canon’s 9-point AiAF for fast, accurate focusing even when subjects are not centred. FlexiZone AF/AE allows free scrolling anywhere within the frame's auto focus area to select the desired subject, for which exposure is weighted accordingly. Manual focus selection is also available.

Increased versatility

A larger 2.0” vari-angle LCD offers users great versatility in composing shots from awkward angles, such as from ground or waist level, above the head and when shooting self portraits. The selectable grid line display helps with composition and levelling horizons.

The A620 and A610 incorporate a total of 20 shooting modes, including full Manual mode, a Custom mode for allocating preferred shooting settings, and a shutter speed priority mode, with shutter speeds ranging from 15 seconds to 1/2500 second. Eight scene modes – such as Night Snapshot, Snow and Underwater – maximise results in a variety of shooting situations. The Stitch Assist mode facilitates shooting pictures for panoramas, which can be joined together easily with the supplied PhotoStitch software. My Colors – located on the mode dial – allows the expansion of creativity in digital photography. Special effects, such as Color Swap or Custom Color, which allows users to select their preferred colour balance for any given shot, can be performed in-camera and viewed on the LCD while shooting stills and movies. These effects could previously only be achieved using PC software after shooting.

High quality movies are selectable from VGA (30/15fps), QVGA (30/15fps), Fast Frame Rate (for slow motion replays in camera), and Compact mode (for clips that are ideal for emailing).

Accessories to enhance

A complete range of optional accessories is available to extend the capabilities of the cameras. The new Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC58F, has been designed to fit these models. Both the Wide Converter Lens WC-DC58N (0.7x) and Tele-converter lens TC-DC58N (1.75x) increase framing options and extend the camera’s effective focal length range.

The dedicated Waterproof Case WP-DC90 – submersible to 40 m – is constructed with anti-fog double glass and a flash light diffusion plate. Separate Waterproof Case Weights WW-DC1 are available for controlling buoyancy. Other accessories include the AC Adapter Kit ACK600, the Battery Charger Kit CBK4-200 with four NiMH batteries, and the Soft Case DCC-300.

Advanced printing

When used in combination with Canon’s new Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP510 and Canon’s Ink and Paper Set (KP-108IP), prints can be produced for just 30 euro cents each. Printing via SELPHY CP Compact Photo Printers also allows the user to print handy ID Photo prints and movie prints.

When connected to the latest range of PictBridge compatible PIXMA printers (also released today), image enhancement is possible with functions such as Noise Reduction and Vivid Photo, as well as the new Face Brightener feature. Also new is Captured Info print, which prints shooting data such as shutter speed, aperture and shooting mode within the photo border .
Printing images without having to connect to a PC is kept simple with the Print/Share button, which also acts as an easy upload button for Windows XP and Mac OS X.

Comprehensive software

The new cameras come bundled with a comprehensive software suite, including Canon’s browsing and printing software ZoomBrowser EX 5.5 (Windows) and ImageBrowser 5.5 (Mac), easy printing software PhotoRecord 2.2 and PhotoStitch 3.1 for creating stunning panoramas. Also included is the photo manipulation software, ArcSoft PhotoStudio.

Purchasers of the cameras are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY , which offers 100MB of online space for uploading and sharing images, and supports My Camera, which allows users to further customise their camera settings.

Supported operating systems are Windows 98 (SE), Me, 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1/2) and Mac OS X v10.2-v10.3. The cameras support PTP for driverless transfer to supported Windows XP or Mac OS X.

Canon Powershot A610 Reviews

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot A610 and recommends - 'I was very pleased with the image quality when using its Large SuperFine setting. Outdoors, it captures sharp images with good color balance. The Auto white balance setting produced accurate results in a variety of different lighting conditions. You can also choose one of the six presets (Day light, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Underwater) or use the custom "one-touch" setting. Its exposure system did an excellent job, capturing properly exposed images almost every time. Noise levels are nearly non existent in high/low contrast areas, allowing for beautiful sky and shadow detail.'

CNET reviews the Canon PowerShot A610 and gives it a rating of 'very good'. They recommend - 'At 5 megapixels, the Canon PowerShot A610 doesn't have the pixel punch of the pricier Canon PowerShot A620, but that is where the difference ends. Just like its sibling, the PowerShot A610 packs a lot of muscle into its compact body. A 4X optical zoom, full manual controls, a long list of scene modes, and above-average performance and image quality make this camera a perfect match for snapshot photographers and enthusiasts who want it all for a competitive price.'

Bob Atkins has a review of the Canon Powershot A610 digital camera and writes - 'I'd say the A610 would be ideal for at least two types of user. The first is someone who wants to get started in digital, but who wants something more than a simple "auto everything" P&S. The A610 offers both fully auto modes and fully manual modes, with everything in between! You can certainly learn using the A610. The second is someone who wants a small, pocketable, backup camera for their DSLR. They will want control over ISO, exposure, focus and everything else they are used to with their DSLR, such as white balance, exposure compensation and flash exposure compensation. The A610 will give them that. It even has a histogram to check exposure and a twist and swivel LCD for unusual angles (something even a DSLR won't give you!).'

Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot A610 and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot A610 is an very worthy addition near the top of that line, offering a 5-megapixel CCD and a very good quality 4x optical zoom lens. It offers everything from fully automatic to fully manual exposure control, with a healthy set of scene modes thrown in to make it easy to bring back great-looking photos from what might otherwise be challenging situations. In the past, we've often found that 5-megapixel cameras suffer a little in the image noise department, but were quite pleasantly surprised by the A610's high-ISO image quality. ISO 400 shots from it showed a little noise when printed as large as 8x10 inches, but would certainly be acceptable to most consumers for typical wall or tabletop display. Bottom line, this is just an excellent "all around" digital camera, and an excellent bargain.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Canon Powershot A610 Digital Camera and gives it a rating of 78%. They recommend - 'The Canon PowerShot A610 left behind a truly positive impression. The camera does keep its promises and is a worthy successor of the previous Canon A-series of digital cameras. Canon is a successful brand in the digital camera market; they possess a large market segment and put a strikingly strong new digital camera in the market time after time in order to keep the market segment in their possession. Those who are looking for a digital all-rounder, a camera for the beginning photographer, but one that is capable of growing to higher skills with its owner, will find so with this new Canon PowerShot A610 digital camera. Excellent!'

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Aug 22: Canon PowerShot SD450 (IXUS 55)

The Canon Powershot SD450 (also known as the Canon IXUS 55) is a 5.0 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD. It features DIGIC II processing, SD card and cool feature that rotates the image when you display it depending upon the angle that you held the camera when taking the photo (very cool).

The Canon Powershot SD450/IXUS 55 will retail for $499 (USD). Learn more about it in a news release announcing it and it's big brother - the Canon Powershot SD550 (IXUS 750).

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD450

Canon Powershot SD450 - IXUS 55 News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces two new additions to its Digital IXUS range - the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55. As the Digital IXUS flagship, the Digital IXUS 750 maintains the style and sophistication for which Digital IXUS is renowned. The elegant ‘perpetual curve’ design returns and is available in two stunning finishes – Silver Grey and Satin Beige . Featuring a new interpretation of the iconic ‘box and circle’ design, the Digital IXUS 55 has a unique starburst design radiating from the lens ring, and is finished in silver-white palladium plating on stainless steel.

As ever, the functionality behind these new Digital IXUS models is as stunning as the cameras themselves. Both cameras boast DIGIC II processing, and a massive 2.5“ LCD. The Digital IXUS 750 has 7.1 Megapixels, while the Digital IXUS 55 features 5.0 Megapixels. Both digital cameras come with 3x optical zoom.

Style statement

Each Canon Digital IXUS is a statement in style, and the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 are no exception. The sleek lines and graceful feel of the Digital IXUS 750’s all-metal perpetual curve body embraces IXUS luxury. In a new twist on the ‘box and circle’ design, the designers of the Digital IXUS 55 have progressed the concept even further by adding a radiantly brilliant ring around the lens, producing a starburst effect.

Large LCD with wide viewing angle

Both cameras feature an oversize 2.5” LCD display - while retaining all key controls and preserving sleek and slim bodies. The large LCD with wide viewing angle makes it easier to view and share images and movies during playback. The big LCD also makes it easier for the user to frame their shot and view menus, and is adjustable to 15 levels of brightness. New slide show functions allow review of images with stylish and contemporary transition effects applied in camera to create impressive slide shows with minimum user effort.

UA elements and Megapixels for bigger prints

The Digital IXUS 750 operates with 7.1 Megapixels, which can give detailed A2 prints, while with 5.0 Megapixels, the Digital IXUS 55 can produce quality photo prints to A3 size. The Digital IXUS 750 lens is constructed with 7 elements in 5 groups, and the Digital IXUS 55 lens is constructed with 6 elements in 5 groups. Each camera lens includes two Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical (UA) elements for true to life colours and crisp, high contrast images.

DIGIC II Processor

Both new Digital IXUS models features DIGIC II – Canon’s renowned processor ensures that the images recorded have superb resolution and colour quality, as well as giving improved camera performance overall. With 9-point AiAF, the cameras automatically focus on the subject, even when it is off-centre. iSAPS intelligence ensures that the cameras assess the scene and adjust the settings to achieve the optimum results. Three methods of exposure control can be selected; evaluative, centre-weighted, and spot; and ISO can be set to Auto, 50, 100, 200 or 400. For rapid downloading of images, the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 and utilise a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface.

Shooting modes and special effects

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 cover a wide range of photographic situations by providing users with 15 or 14 different shooting modes, respectively. A selection can be made from Auto, Manual, Portrait, Landscape and Night Snapshot modes, or from the scene modes that now include an underwater setting, allowing users to take full advantage of the optional Waterproof Case (WP-DC80) for the Digital IXUS 750, or All Weather Case (AW-DC50) for the Digital IXUS 55. Underwater mode adjusts the white balance specifically for underwater shots, allowing capture of the most authentic colours and minimising any blue cast.

My Colors allows the expansion of creativity in digital photography. Special effects such as Color Swap or Custom Color, which allows users to select their preferred colour balance for any given shot, can be performed in-camera and viewed on the LCD while shooting stills and movies. These effects could previously only be achieved using PC software after shooting.

Intelligent orientation sensor

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55’s Intelligent Orientation Sensor recognises when the camera is rotated from horizontal to vertical, automatically rotating stored images for correct playback.

To help keep the camera level with the horizon and to assist with image composition, users can also opt to display gridlines on their LCD.

Other user interface options have been enhanced or added, including the new world time zone display. This allows the user to set home and destination country time zones, as well as animated displays and improved warnings for camera shake. The camera menu can also be displayed in 22 different languages.

More than just photos

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 record high quality VGA movies – users can select between VGA and QVGA at 30 or 15 fps. Continuous filming is available until the file size has reached 1GB or 60 minutes – whichever is reached first. A fast frame rate of 60 fps is available, allowing for slow motion playback. Digital zoom can be employed whilst shooting, and for added effect, My Colors may also be used. Compact Movie mode, or QQVGA (160 x 120/15fps), is designed to make sharing movies via email as simple as possible.

Printing images

When used in combination with Canon’s new Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP710 and Canon’s Ink and Paper Set (KP-108IP), prints can be produced for just 30 euro cents each. Printing via a SELPHY CP Compact Photo Printer also allows the user to print handy ID prints and movie prints.

When connected to the latest range of PictBridge compatible PIXMA printers (also released today) image enhancement is possible with functions including Noise Reduction and Vivid Photo as well as the new Face Brightener feature.

Printing of images without having to connect to a PC is made simpler via the Print/Share button, which also acts as an easy upload button for Windows XP and Mac OS X.

Comprehensive software

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 come bundled with the following Canon Software:

* ZoomBrowser EX 5.5, PhotoRecord 2.2 (Windows), ImageBrowser 5.5 (Macintosh): For easy image download, storage and retrieval, as well as management of image layout and printing.
* PhotoStitch 3.1: Creates stunning panoramas and can be used with Windows and Macintosh.
* Movie Edit Task: For editing and enhancement of movie footage.

Also included is PhotoStudio, the photo manipulation software by ArcSoft.

Purchasers of both the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY , where they can upload images and customise their camera settings.

The bundled software supports Windows 98 (SE), ME, 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1/3) and Macintosh OS X v10.2-v10.3. Both cameras support PTP for driverless transfer to supported Windows XP or Macintosh OS X.

Accessories

The Digital IXUS 750 can be accessorised with a Waterproof Case (WP-DC80), and ACK900 for mains power. Accessories for the Digital IXUS 55 include an All Weather Case (AW-DC50), and AC Adapter Kit (ACK-DC10). Stylish soft cases, befitting each camera’s design, are also available (Digital IXUS 750: DCC-70 and SC-DC20 and Digital IXUS 55: DCC-60). Both the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 are compatible with SD and MMC memory cards. The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 come complete with 32 MB and 16 MB Canon SD cards respectively.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD450

Canon Powershot SD450 / IXUS 55 Reviews

CNET Reviews the Canon PowerShot SD450 and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot SD450's image quality is marginally better than that of its 4-megapixel sibling, the SD300, and the same as that of its predecessor, the SD400. This camera produced photos that were sharper than the SD300's, but other 5-megapixel cameras in this class have done better, particularly at the telephoto zoom position. On the plus side, there was a good range of detail in shadows and highlights, although it was often masked by JPEG artifacts. Color saturation was somewhat muted at the default setting, and there was a tendency toward yellow casts in flesh tones.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot SD450 Digital ELPH and writes - ' Canon has produced yet another winning digital combination of sleek compact design, speedy performance and great image quality. With the camera taking up less space than a deck of playing cards, it can be carried in almost any size pocket or handbag. The PowerShot SD450 has an MSRP of about $399, which we feel is an excellent value when compared to similar models of its class. So if you're in the market for an extremely pocketable 5-megapixel digicam, be sure to take a look at this model.'

Cameras.co.uk reviews the Canon IXUS 55 (Powershot SD450) and writes - 'As with most Canon digital cameras the colours produced by the camera are very strong. In fact sometimes blues can be a little too vivid. This shows up in the test for colour. On the whole though this bodes well for all types of photography. Landscape style shots will definitely benefit from the strong colours and you should be able to produce rich photos full of colour.... The Canon IXUS 55 throws up no real surprises and is very similar in performance to the IXUS 50. Picture quality is good without being exceptional, but I like the design and build quality. This is also one of the very few ultra compact digital cameras offering a viewfinder. '

Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot SD450 Digital ELPH and writes - 'Widely available as of this writing for under $300, the Canon PowerShot SD450 is an excellent little pocket camera, with a full feature set, super build quality, great image quality, and the flexibility to bring back good-looking pictures from a wide range of shooting situations. Its tiny case is sleek and sophisticated, and travels easily, although we do recommend a small hard case for it, to avoid damage if you bump against something with the camera in your pocket. 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 extend the camera's shooting ability.'

Photobird reviews the Canon PowerShot SD450 Digital Elph and writes - 'If you're looking for a tiny digital camera to take along with you wherever you go, then the Canon PowerShot SD450 is an excellent choice. It has 5 megapixels, 3x zoom, and a large 2.5" LCD screen -- a group of features that hits the "sweet spot" of today's tiny digital cameras. The Canon PowerShot SD450 is very well built, easy-to-use, and takes excellent photos. The only thing I really missed was a protective covering for the camera, which you can easily find on your own. At about $300, the Canon PowerShot SD450 is an excellent investment that should provide you with thousands upon thousands of precious memories. '

DP Review has posted a review of the Canon PowerShot SD450 where they give the digital camera a rating of 'recommended'. They write - 'In an ideal world buying an ultra compact camera would not involve any compromise at all. But this ain't a perfect world, and if you want a camera you really can carry with you anytime, anywhere then you have to accept there will be some trade-off in terms of absolute image quality. The SD450, like the SD400 before it, 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.'

PhotographyBLOG reviews the Canon Digital IXUS 55 which they are pretty impressed with - giving it a rating of 4 stars out of 5. They write - 'The IXUS 55 is a tiny camera that both looks great and works well, with a number of innovative features on offer. On paper it doesn't seem to offer anything different to a lot of other, cheaper cameras - 3x optical zoom lens, 7 megapixel sensor, large 2.5 inch LCD screen - but pick the IXUS 55 up and there is an undeniable sense of quality which far exceeds the competition. Just as impressively, Canon have managed to include a large LCD screen and small optical viewfinder despite the tiny dimensions of the IXUS 55. Unfortunately image quality isn't quite up to the high standards set by the rest of the camera. Due to the small 1/2.5 inch CCD, the 5 megapixel images are noisy at ISO 200 and 400, and they are also a little soft out of the camera with no option for increasing the sharpness level. If you want a camera with similar build quality that is also pocketable but with better image quality, I would suggest that you take a look at the slightly bigger and more expensive IXUS 750. So the Canon Digital IXUS 55 is obviously not going to satisfy everyone, as it doesn't offer full manual control over aperture and shutter speeds and the image quality is not best in class, but if you want a stylish ultra-compact camera, the IXUS is well worth considering.'

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD450

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Aug 22: Canon PowerShot SD550 (IXUS 750)

The Canon Powershot SD550 (also known as the Canon IXUS 750) is a 7.1 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD. It features DIGIC II processing, SD card and cool feature that rotates the image when you display it depending upon the angle that you held the camera when taking the photo (this is handy stuff).

The Canon Powershot SD550/IXUS 750 will retail for $499 (USD). Learn more about it in a news release announcing it and it's sibling - the Canon Powershot SD450 (IXUS 55).

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD550

Canon Powershot SD550 - IXUS 700 Reviews

Steves Digicams have posted a review of the Canon Powershot SD550 Digital ELPH where they write - 'Image quality when using Large SuperFine mode is excellent. Just about every image we captured was sharp with almost perfect exposure every time. Colors are nicely saturated and when shooting people shots, skin tones are very natural. 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, only a slight amount of noise is detectable in shadow areas, and at ISO 200 shadow noise becomes more noticeable. At ISO 400 noise becomes noticeable in highlight areas, but the images are quite usable. If you shoot night pictures you'll appreciate the "Long Shutter" option that gives you access to shutter speeds ranging from 1to 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 the Canon PowerShot SD550 and writes - 'A slightly more expensive version of the PowerShot SD500, which remains in Canon's product lineup, the Canon PowerShot SD550 comes with a larger 2.5-inch LCD and a new finish. Like its sibling, 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 PowerShot SD550 to snap a limitless stream of 7-megapixel photos at a respectable clip, its start-up time is tops in its class, and it delivers decent photos when compared to its competition.'

DP Review has reviewed the Canon PowerShot SD550 digital camera and give it a 'recommended' badge of approval. They write about the SD550 by saying - 'Okay, so the SD550 hardly breaks new ground, and - coming only six or seven months after the SD500 it replaces - I'd have been surprised if it was. In most respects this is good news; the SD500 was a little gem of a camera (and the best IXUS / ELPH yet), and the SD550 is just that little bit better. Image quality is excellent (for a camera in this class), it's fast, responsive and reliable, and it is one of the few cameras on the market today that has a true 'luxury' feel to it, such is the quality of its build and materials.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot SD550 and writes - '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 SD550 is no exception. While it's not actually that much smaller than the previous CompactFlash-based SD550 model, it feels a lot smaller, thanks no doubt to its sleek, 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. '

Cameras.co.uk reviews the Canon IXUS 750 digital camera and writes - 'The one point that really strikes me with the images I have produced with the IXUS 750 is the clarity and sharpness of them. This says a lot about the quality of the lens. The colours are very strong too.... The Canon IXUS 750 is a very impressive digital camera. The images are really pin sharp and the build quality of the camera is equally impressive. At current pricings levels this camera certainly comes at a hefty premium. This is a very high quality digital camera nonetheless. '

DC Views reviews the Canon SD550 / IXUS 750 and writes - 'Apart from our minor qualms about the tiny optical viewfinder, which is a bit awkward to use and only shows about 80% of the image area, the Canon SD550 is a welcome addition to the range of Digital Elphs. Its ultra compact size ensures you can take it with you wherever you go. Canon's famed durability and robustness will guarantee years of picture taking pleasure and its stylish appearance and good performance make it an excellent choice for the photographer who wants an easy to use point-and-shoot camera. Add to this that apart from excellent photo quality it has got a very good movie mode and there is no doubt that you get a lot of camera for your money. Just remember to wear that wrist strap.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Canon Digital IXUS 750 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Canon IXUS concept has been very well designed. IXUS products have been available since 1996. This evolution now leads to the Canon Digital IXUS 750 and one wonders how much more can be done. The IXUS 750 has got a nice, large monitor that is easily to operate and gives superb results. On top of all this, the camera is an absolute beauty to look at. It should be obvious that I am very satisfied with the results of the Canon Digital IXUS 750. The camera truly exceeds the expectations. This makes the Canon IXUS 750 suitable for both the trendy photographer and anyone interested in a good, decent compact camera. Recommended! '

PhotographyBLOG reviews the Canon Digital Ixus 750 and writes - 'On the face of it the Canon Digital IXUS 750 is a pretty run-of-the-mill digital camera. A 3x optical zoom lens, 7 megapixel sensor, large 2.5 inch LCD screen - on first sight, it doesn't seem to offer anything different to a lot of other, cheaper cameras. And in terms of features, this assessment is an accurate one. What the Canon Digital IXUS 750 does offer, however, to make it stand out from the crowd is an undeniable sense of quality. No other digital camera that I've reviewed has the same level of sheer luxury as this one, in terms of design, finish, ease-of-use and images. It will impress your friends with its looks and take any hard-knocks that you subject it to.'

Trusted Reviews has reviewed the Canon IXUS 750 and writes - 'There�s no doubt that the Canon Digital IXUS 750 is a great little camera. It is compact, superbly well made and simply oozes style. It also takes a damn fine picture. However the inflated price compared to other equally impressive models from other manufacturers makes it an expensive luxury.'

BIOS reviews the Canon IXUS 750 and writes - 'There are three things that strike you about the IXUS 750 (PowerShot ELPH SD550 in the US): its compact size; solid and robust design; and the large 2.5-inch screen which occupies most of the camera's rear. The fact that the camera offers a capture resolution of 7.1-Megapixels (3072x2304 pixels) is also impressive.'

Megapixel reviews the Canon SD550 / IXUS 750 and gives it a great rating of 9.2 out of 10. They write - 'Like the SD500, the SD550 is remarkable if only for the fact that it is so small and yet captures such a large image. With its 7.1 megapixel resolution, the SD550's photos can easily be printed out to an 7.5 x 10 inch (20 x 25 cm) size at 300 dpi, ensuring a smooth continuous image.... The SD550 is a well-built and versatile compact camera. It offers both simplicity of use when set to the Auto shooting mode or one of its 9 Scene modes, and the capability to capture more complex images when set to the Manual mode. Furthermore, it offers an excellent image quality when photos are captured using the Superfine compression level and the maximum 7-megapixel resolution. And now, at the same price as last Fall's SD500, the SD550 adds a 2.5 inch LCD monitor: that's a good deal.'

Canon Powershot SD550 - IXUS 750 News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces two new additions to its Digital IXUS range - the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55. As the Digital IXUS flagship, the Digital IXUS 750 maintains the style and sophistication for which Digital IXUS is renowned. The elegant ‘perpetual curve’ design returns and is available in two stunning finishes – Silver Grey and Satin Beige . Featuring a new interpretation of the iconic ‘box and circle’ design, the Digital IXUS 55 has a unique starburst design radiating from the lens ring, and is finished in silver-white palladium plating on stainless steel.

Photoxels has posted a review of the Canon PowerShot SD550 Digital ELPH where they write - 'The Canon PowerShot SD550 produces very good to excellent image quality -- and that is the main criteria that users would (should) be mostly concerned with. Add in fast operations with no practical shutter lag, fast and precise AF that works in low-light, accurate exposure metering, and one of the most elegant and beautifully designed body on a digital camera -- and you can't go wrong if you are looking for a take-anywhere ultra compact digital camera. Why not check it out online or at your favourite camera retail store?'

As ever, the functionality behind these new Digital IXUS models is as stunning as the cameras themselves. Both cameras boast DIGIC II processing, and a massive 2.5“ LCD. The Digital IXUS 750 has 7.1 Megapixels, while the Digital IXUS 55 features 5.0 Megapixels. Both digital cameras come with 3x optical zoom.

Style statement

Each Canon Digital IXUS is a statement in style, and the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 are no exception. The sleek lines and graceful feel of the Digital IXUS 750’s all-metal perpetual curve body embraces IXUS luxury. In a new twist on the ‘box and circle’ design, the designers of the Digital IXUS 55 have progressed the concept even further by adding a radiantly brilliant ring around the lens, producing a starburst effect.

Large LCD with wide viewing angle

Both cameras feature an oversize 2.5” LCD display - while retaining all key controls and preserving sleek and slim bodies. The large LCD with wide viewing angle makes it easier to view and share images and movies during playback. The big LCD also makes it easier for the user to frame their shot and view menus, and is adjustable to 15 levels of brightness. New slide show functions allow review of images with stylish and contemporary transition effects applied in camera to create impressive slide shows with minimum user effort.

UA elements and Megapixels for bigger prints

The Digital IXUS 750 operates with 7.1 Megapixels, which can give detailed A2 prints, while with 5.0 Megapixels, the Digital IXUS 55 can produce quality photo prints to A3 size. The Digital IXUS 750 lens is constructed with 7 elements in 5 groups, and the Digital IXUS 55 lens is constructed with 6 elements in 5 groups. Each camera lens includes two Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical (UA) elements for true to life colours and crisp, high contrast images.

DIGIC II Processor

Both new Digital IXUS models features DIGIC II – Canon’s renowned processor ensures that the images recorded have superb resolution and colour quality, as well as giving improved camera performance overall. With 9-point AiAF, the cameras automatically focus on the subject, even when it is off-centre. iSAPS intelligence ensures that the cameras assess the scene and adjust the settings to achieve the optimum results. Three methods of exposure control can be selected; evaluative, centre-weighted, and spot; and ISO can be set to Auto, 50, 100, 200 or 400. For rapid downloading of images, the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 and utilise a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface.

Shooting modes and special effects

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 cover a wide range of photographic situations by providing users with 15 or 14 different shooting modes, respectively. A selection can be made from Auto, Manual, Portrait, Landscape and Night Snapshot modes, or from the scene modes that now include an underwater setting, allowing users to take full advantage of the optional Waterproof Case (WP-DC80) for the Digital IXUS 750, or All Weather Case (AW-DC50) for the Digital IXUS 55. Underwater mode adjusts the white balance specifically for underwater shots, allowing capture of the most authentic colours and minimising any blue cast.

My Colors allows the expansion of creativity in digital photography. Special effects such as Color Swap or Custom Color, which allows users to select their preferred colour balance for any given shot, can be performed in-camera and viewed on the LCD while shooting stills and movies. These effects could previously only be achieved using PC software after shooting.

Intelligent orientation sensor

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55’s Intelligent Orientation Sensor recognises when the camera is rotated from horizontal to vertical, automatically rotating stored images for correct playback.

To help keep the camera level with the horizon and to assist with image composition, users can also opt to display gridlines on their LCD.

Other user interface options have been enhanced or added, including the new world time zone display. This allows the user to set home and destination country time zones, as well as animated displays and improved warnings for camera shake. The camera menu can also be displayed in 22 different languages.

More than just photos

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 record high quality VGA movies – users can select between VGA and QVGA at 30 or 15 fps. Continuous filming is available until the file size has reached 1GB or 60 minutes – whichever is reached first. A fast frame rate of 60 fps is available, allowing for slow motion playback. Digital zoom can be employed whilst shooting, and for added effect, My Colors may also be used. Compact Movie mode, or QQVGA (160 x 120/15fps), is designed to make sharing movies via email as simple as possible.

Printing images

When used in combination with Canon’s new Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP710 and Canon’s Ink and Paper Set (KP-108IP), prints can be produced for just 30 euro cents each. Printing via a SELPHY CP Compact Photo Printer also allows the user to print handy ID prints and movie prints.

When connected to the latest range of PictBridge compatible PIXMA printers (also released today) image enhancement is possible with functions including Noise Reduction and Vivid Photo as well as the new Face Brightener feature.

Printing of images without having to connect to a PC is made simpler via the Print/Share button, which also acts as an easy upload button for Windows XP and Mac OS X.

Comprehensive software

The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 come bundled with the following Canon Software:

* ZoomBrowser EX 5.5, PhotoRecord 2.2 (Windows), ImageBrowser 5.5 (Macintosh): For easy image download, storage and retrieval, as well as management of image layout and printing.
* PhotoStitch 3.1: Creates stunning panoramas and can be used with Windows and Macintosh.
* Movie Edit Task: For editing and enhancement of movie footage.

Also included is PhotoStudio, the photo manipulation software by ArcSoft.

Purchasers of both the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY , where they can upload images and customise their camera settings.

The bundled software supports Windows 98 (SE), ME, 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1/3) and Macintosh OS X v10.2-v10.3. Both cameras support PTP for driverless transfer to supported Windows XP or Macintosh OS X.

Accessories
The Digital IXUS 750 can be accessorised with a Waterproof Case (WP-DC80), and ACK900 for mains power. Accessories for the Digital IXUS 55 include an All Weather Case (AW-DC50), and AC Adapter Kit (ACK-DC10). Stylish soft cases, befitting each camera’s design, are also available (Digital IXUS 750: DCC-70 and SC-DC20 and Digital IXUS 55: DCC-60). Both the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 are compatible with SD and MMC memory cards. The Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55 come complete with 32 MB and 16 MB Canon SD cards respectively.

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Aug 22: Canon PowerShot A410

The Canon Powershot A410 is a 3.2 megapixel digital camera with a 3.2x Optical Zoom lens. It utilizes DIGIC II processing and a 5 point Auto focusing system that shoots at up to 2.5 frames per second.

The Canon PowerShot A410 has a 1.5 inch LCD, 14 shooting modes and direct printing via a Print/Share button.

The A410 will be priced at around $150.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot A410

Canon Powershot A410 Reviews

DCRP reviews the Canon PowerShot A410 and recommends that you might like to consider it's big brother - the A510. They write - 'The PowerShot A410 is as good entry-level camera and if you don't mind some of the missing or crippled features, it's a nice camera for the money. If you like what've you seen but you want a more capable camera then I'd point you to the next step up in Canon's lineup: the PowerShot A510.... For $50 more you get a 4X zoom lens, larger/brighter LCD, full manual controls (which you may not need now, but you might want them in the future), support for conversion lenses, and more. There are some other (non-Canon) options available as well, and I've listed them below.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot A410 and writes - 'Canon has done it again with yet another model that offers great image quality and performance, all with a very appealing price. We feel it is a perfect money saving replacement to all those disposable 35mm cameras. It is simple to use and still includes many features found on more expensive models. With a street price of around $149 the Canon PowerShot A410 offers an excellent value to the price conscious consumer and will make a great gift this coming holiday season!'

Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot A410 Digital Camera and writes - 'Featuring a 3.2-megapixel CCD, automatic exposure control with a wide range of preset shooting modes, and a real bargain price, the PowerShot A410 does a great job of holding up Canon's sterling reputation at the low end of their line. Built on the same long-tested design as many A-series predecessors, the Canon A410 delivers a lot of features, great image quality, and tremendous value in a compact package designed for novices.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Canon PowerShot A410 and gives it a 5 star rating. They write - 'The Canon A410 will prove to be an outstanding camera for any novice that is looking for a digital camera. For this type of photographer, the possibilities and options offered make it very well suited to replace a 35mm camera. The quality lives up to all expectations; comfort and ease are close at hand. Still, it has to be said that there are boundaries and limitations to how far you can take this camera, it is for instance quite clear that unleashing one's creativity will mostly remain restricted to the shooting modes. If this, however, is a fact you can overlook, the Canon PowerShot A410 will be an excellent choice indeed. The camera is therefore truly recommended to any beginning photographer!'

Canon Powershot A410 News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the PowerShot range-opening 3.2 Megapixel PowerShot A410. Replacing the popular PowerShot A400, the PowerShot A410 has a bold new design and incorporates improved operability and performance through DIGIC II processing, and a 3.2x optical zoom with maximum aperture of f/2.8 – f/5.1. It is housed in a smaller, more compact and robust body.

Featuring 5 point AiAF auto focus and a range of shooting modes, the A410’s ease of use makes it the ideal camera for those making the change to digital.

DIGIC II power

In a leap up from the PowerShot A400, the PowerShot A410 now includes Canon’s renowned DIGIC II processing – the same technology found in Canon’s EOS-1 professional range digital SLR cameras. The DIGIC II processor integrates all image processing algorithms onto a single chip to deliver fast write times, minimal shutter lag, optimal image definition and consistently precise and natural colour reproduction. Camera start up and response times for image review are significantly improved. Introduction of DIGIC II also accounts for an up to 40% improvement in auto focus times, and smooth continuous shooting at a highly impressive 2.5fps.

Simply better

While being smaller and more robust, the A410 has a longer optical zoom of 3.2 x (41 mm – 131 mm equivalent) allowing the user extra reach. The increased maximum aperture provides more options when shooting in low light. 5 point AiAF auto focus analyses the composition of the shot and focuses the camera accordingly, keeping even off-centre subjects sharply in focus. Super Macro mode allows focus on subjects as close as 1.5 cm from the lens.

Users can take photographs using the optical viewfinder or the 1.5“ LCD monitor. The monitor is adjustable up to 15 levels of brightness, and the user interface has been improved to make the camera even more simple to use. 22 language settings can be displayed.

To take full advantage of the camera’s zoom range, the A410’s flash has been repositioned, ensuring that there are no dark shadows in images when they are recorded with the lens fully extended. The flash covers a range of up to 3 metres.

Camera modes

The A410 has 14 shooting modes to select from, including 8 pre-set Special Scene modes to help achieve great results in tricky lighting conditions. These modes include Portrait, Night Snapshot, Kids and Pets, Indoor, Foliage, Beach, Snow and Fireworks. To assist photographers with composition, a gridline display can be selected, which helps with framing shots and keeping horizons level. The addition of My Colors allows the operator to use enhanced, in-camera digital effects, such as Color Swap, while shooting. Previously, this level of image enhancement was only possible after downloading to a PC, and using specialised software.

The A410 also allows users to capture high quality movie clips. It supports VGA (640 x 480) and QVGA (320 x 240) quality at 10 and 20 frames per second respectively. Up to 3 minutes of footage can be captured. A Compact Mode is provided for producing clips suitable for email without the problem of unwieldy file sizes.

Direct printing

At 3.2 Megapixels, the A410 can print photo quality images up to A4 size. When used in combination with Canon’s new Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP510 and Canon’s Ink and Paper Set (KP-108IP), prints can be produced for just 30 euro cents each. Printing via SELPHY CP Compact Photo Printers also allows the user to print handy ID Photo prints and movie prints.
When connected to the latest range of PictBridge compatible PIXMA printers (also released today) image enhancement is possible with functions including Noise Reduction and Vivid Photo as well as the new Face Brightener feature.

Printing of images without having to connect to a PC is also made simpler via the Print/Share button.

Comprehensive software

The A410 comes bundled with the following Canon Software:

* ZoomBrowser EX 5.5, PhotoRecord 2.2 (Windows), ImageBrowser 5.5 (Macintosh): For easy image download, storage and retrieval, as well as management of image layout and printing.
* PhotoStitch 3.1: Creates stunning panoramas and can be used with Windows and Macintosh.
* PhotoStudio: the photo manipulation software by ArcSoft.

Purchasers of the A410 are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY , where they can upload images and customise their camera settings.

The bundled software supports Windows 98 (SE), ME, 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1/3) and Macintosh OS X v10.2-v10.3. The A410 supports PTP for driverless transfer to supported Windows XP or Macintosh OS X.

Accessories

The A410 comes complete with a 16 MB MultiMediaCard for image storage and is also compatible with SD cards. It is supplied with 2 x AA Alkaline Batteries and can be used with Canon rechargeable NiMH Batteries; an optional charger kit, CBK4-200, is available consisting of 4 x AA rechargeable NiMH batteries and a charger. Other optional extras include an AC Adapter kit for power from mains electricity (ACK800), a High-Power flash (HF-DC1) as well as the DCC-400 soft case.

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Aug 22: Canon PowerShot S80

The Canon PowerShot S80 is an 8 megapixel digital camera that will be priced at around the $550 (USD) mark. It is based upon the Powershot S70. It features a 2.5 inch LCD, 3.6x Optical Zoom lens and 1024 x 768 pixel movies at 15 frames per second movie mode (or 30 fps at VGA, 60fps at QVGA quality).

Expect to see the Canon Powershot S80 in stores in October 2005.

Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot S80 8MP Digital Camera with 6x Wide Angle Optical Zoom

Canon Powershot S80 Reviews

CNET reviews the Canon PowerShot S80 and gives it a rating of 8.0 out of 10 (excellent). They write - 'Canon's latest PowerShot S-series flagship, the 8-megapixel PowerShot S80, stands out just about every way you look at it. It's a fun little camera that packs a wallop in terms of features, performance, and photo quality. Its automatic-exposure modes and intelligent processing will impress casual shooters who want good images without a lot of fuss. Its manual controls and advanced features will provide enjoyment for fiddling amateurs. And its big 2.5-inch LCD, elegant good looks, and excellent build quality will please any shooter.'

DP Review has posted an excellent review of the Canon PowerShot S80 where they give it a rating of highly recommended and write - 'So then, the S80 is a camera that proves there is hope for the new generation of 8 megapixel compacts. I was ready to blast Canon for another pointless upgrade, but as the review progressed I started to appreciate that this was not just a worthwhile upgrade, it was probably the first time I've found a PowerShot I'd actually lay out my own money for. I toyed with the idea of a recommended simply due to the lack of raw support, but given that - with careful exposure - the JPEGs are so good, I felt that would be unnecessarily harsh.'

Trusted Reviews has just posted a review of the Canon Powershot S80 digital camera where they write - 'Although it is scarily expensive, the PowerShot S80 really delivers. It has enough creative options to satisfy any keen photographer, and delivers results that are among the best I�ve seen. Performance, design and build quality are all of the high standard we�ve come to expect from Canon. If you got the money, it�s one of the best compact cameras you can buy.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot S80 and writes - 'With an MSRP of under $550, the Canon S80 presents an excellent value among high-end consumer digicams. With 8 megapixels of resolution, a versatile optical zoom range of 28-100mm, excellent image quality and a stylish pocketable design, it has broad appeal for recording family events and travel. It is capable of being used by photographers of every experience level, providing plenty of automation for the beginner and ample controls for the advanced user. The average size of a 8-megapixel Superfine image is nearly 5-megabytes, so make sure that you get an SD memory card large enough for a days worth of shots. And because the S80 can not be powered by common batteries, make sure that you get a spare NB-2LH battery, keeping it fully charged so that you don't miss that once in a lifetime photo op. The S80, like its S70 predecessor, is an excellent camera, one that I can again highly recommend. '

Imaging Resource reviews the Canon Powershot S80 Digital Camera and writes - 'Like Canon's other mid-size PowerShots, the S80 presents itself as a well-built, high-quality instrument. The size and style are reminiscent of a point-and-shoot model, even though it offers an eight megapixel sensor and a wide range of shooting options -- from fully manual operation to programmed, automatic, and a wide range of preset exposures. Its interface is quite a bit different from past models in the line, with several new ideas, and a few borrowed from the Canon G6. The telescoping 3.6x zoom lens is made with Canon's UA optical glass, which stands for Ultra-high refractive index Aspherical Lens, providing a physically shorter lens with a wider angle of view than cameras earlier than the S60 and S70 in this line. The lens is protected by a sliding lens cover that blends well into the camera's front panel. As with the majority of Canon's high-end digicams, primary functions are accessed via external controls, providing quick and easy adjustments to flash, exposure compensation, manual focus, and light metering modes. This combination of compact design, sturdy construction, and flexible exposure options makes this camera a real pleasure to work with, and a good value for the $549 list price, occupying as it does the higher end of the category.'

Lets Go Digital Reviews the Canon Powershot S80 Digital Camera and writes - 'All in all the Canon PowerShot S80 is an extremely interesting digital camera. It seems a rather stubborn one, but definitely one that proves itself worthy. The PowerShot S80 is found on the top in its price range. Most changes compared to the S70 are for the user's benefit. A few minor changes (like the return of RAW format!) and the Canon PowerShot S80 will be one of the best versatile digital cameras currently available; it's absolutely a recommendable camera!'

Megapixel reviews the Canon Powershot S80 and writes - 'In summary, the PowerShot S80 offers the high-quality build of the S-series cameras are known for, and adds some new and interesting controls. But its image quality, albeit very good, is not as high as we hoped to see, and in our opinion, has not surpassed that of the S70, its predecessor.'

PC Mag reviews the Canon PowerShot S80 and gives it a rating of 4 stars. They write - 'The sturdy, solid, 8-megapixel PowerShot S80 is the update to the PowerShot S70, last year's Editor's Choice winner. The camera is pricey ($549.95 list), but most features are improved, and only a couple have been dropped. As such, the S80 becomes our Editor's Choice for full-featured, compact digital cameras....The Canon PowerShot S80 is a solid compact camera that takes excellent photos. It may be a bit expensive, but as versatile compact digital cameras go, you'll be hard-pressed to find something better.'

Canon PowerShot S80 News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the 8.0 Megapixel PowerShot S80 - the new flagship to its S-Series PowerShot range. The camera's rich feature set includes a wide-angle 28-100 mm f/2.8-5.3 (3.6x) optical zoom lens incorporating Canon’s UA lens technology, the same DIGIC II processor found in Canon’s professional series digital SLRs and an oversize 2.5“ LCD. A striking, contemporary finish complements the compact body of the camera, which is considerably smaller than its predecessor – the PowerShot S70.

For the first time in a digital compact, an EOS-style Multi Control Dial is introduced to allow quick setting of menu and shooting functions, as well as rapid scroll through images during playback. Advanced features include real-time histogram display, FlexiZone AF/AE with a freely movable focus point and manual focus override, 21 shooting modes, XGA quality video clips up to 1 GB in size and a new and improved user interface with a newly designed and positioned mode dial.

“The PowerShot S80 provides those serious about photography with uncompromising specifications,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “Its futuristic and compact design symbolises Canon’s commitment to pushing the limits of what is possible in this important segment.”

Quality build, quality optics

The sleek-looking S80 has been redesigned to give it a solid, high quality build and a more ergonomic, compact body that is over 8% smaller than its predecessor – despite the camera’s improved performance. Its 28 - 100 mm f/2.8-5.3 (3.6x) optical zoom lens features Canon’s advanced UA (Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical) lens technology, which allows for true wide-angle capability without increasing camera size. The focal length range expands to approximately 22.4 – 200 mm with the new optional wide and tele-converter lenses.

The power of 8.0 Megapixels plus DIGIC II

With a sensor that includes a massive 8.0 Megapixels, the camera produces images for detailed A3+ size prints, and gives photographers more freedom to crop images.

Canon’s advanced image processor, DIGIC II, has been incorporated to increase the camera’s speed and responsiveness, while also improving image quality. Auto focus speeds are now up to 20% faster, and focusing performance in low light has improved by around 1 stop, offering better control in dim conditions. DIGIC II drives a 1.8 frames per second continuous shooting speed, and supports 9-point AiAF for fast, accurate focusing even when subjects are not centred. FlexiZone AF/AE allows free scrolling anywhere within the frame's auto focus area to select the desired subject, for which exposure is weighted accordingly. Manual focus selection is also possible.

Hi-Speed USB 2.0 compatibility offers faster communication with computers, speeding up file transfers.

High level control and easy to use

The camera’s smaller size has not compromised ease of use. A new large 2.5“ LCD is adjustable to one of 15 brightness levels and has a Quick-bright function to facilitate shooting in sunny conditions. A real-time histogram, which appears on the LCD monitor, has been incorporated to allow the user to evaluate exposure easily when composing. The selectable grid line display helps with composition and levelling horizons.

With a newly designed user interface, the S80 offers faster and more intuitive operation. The Multi Control Dial allows quick setting of menu and shooting functions, as well as rapid scroll through images during playback. Conveniently, the mode dial is now positioned so it can be better viewed when composing shots. The camera’s Shortcut function increases flexibility by allowing the Print/Share button to be assigned to any one of a wide range of still image or movie shooting setting functions.

For enhanced image review, the jump to folder button now allows jumping to the first image of specified folders. Folders can be defined to be created automatically as specified by the user, for example on a weekly basis, and now has a capacity of up to 2000 images per folder.

Modes, My Colors … and movies

The S80 incorporates a total of 21 shooting modes: in addition to the full Manual mode and other creative zone modes that photographers would expect on an S-Series camera, 9 new special scene modes have been incorporated. Helping the user to effectively handle a wide range of situations, these scene modes include Snow, Portrait, Underwater and Digital Macro, plus others. Custom mode allows users allocate preferred shooting settings.

My Colors – located on the mode dial – allows the expansion of creativity in digital photography. Special effects, such as Color Swap or Custom Colors, which allows users to select their preferred colour balance for any given shot, can be performed in-camera and viewed on the LCD while shooting stills and movies. These effects could previously only be achieved using PC software after shooting.

Extended movie shooting functions feature in the S80, including a first for the market : a high resolution (1024 x 768, 15 fps) XGA movie mode, made possible by DIGIC II’s processing speed. Movies in this mode can be up to 1GB in size and are ideal for viewing full screen on a PC or TV. High quality VGA (30/15 fps) movies with sound or QVGA movies (30/15 fps) are also possible, and a compact mode allows short clip capture at 160 x 120 for easy emailing.

Wide range of accessories

A complete range of optional accessories is available to extend the functionality of the S80, including a new Tele-converter 2.0x lens (TC-DC10) and new Wide-converter 0.8x lens (WC-DC10). Other accessories include:

* Conversion Lens Adapter (LA-DC20)
* Waterproof Case WP-DC1 – allowing the camera to be taken to 40 m
* High Power Flash HF-DC1
* A new, more compact Battery Charger (CB-2LWE)
* Convenient Car Battery Charger (CBC-NB2)
* AC Adapter kit ACK-DC20 for mains power

The camera is compatible with MMC/SD cards, and comes supplied with a 32 MB Canon SD card.

Advanced printing

When used in combination with Canon’s new Compact Photo Printer SELPHY CP710 and Ink and Paper Set (KP-108IP), prints can be produced for just 30 euro cents each. Printing via a SELPHY CP Series Printer also allows the user to print handy ID Photo Prints and Movie Prints.

When connected to the latest range of PictBridge compatible PIXMA printers, users can take advantage of image enhancement features such as Noise Reduction, Vivid Photo, Face Brightener and Captured Info print, which prints shooting data such as shutter speed, aperture and shooting mode within the photo border.

Printing images without having to connect to a PC is kept simple with the Print/Share button, which also acts as an easy upload button for Windows XP and Mac OS X.

Software

The S80 comes bundled with a comprehensive software suite, including Canon’s browsing and image management software ZoomBrowser EX 5.5 (Windows) and ImageBrowser 5.5 (Mac), easy printing software PhotoRecord 2.2 and PhotoStitch 3.1 for creating stunning panoramas. Also included is the photo manipulation software, ArcSoft PhotoStudio.

Purchasers of the cameras are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY , which offers 100MB of online space for uploading and sharing images.

Supported operating systems are Windows 98 (SE), Me, 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1/2) and Mac OS X v10.2-v10.3. The cameras support PTP for driverless transfer to supported Windows XP or Mac OS X systems.

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Aug 22: Canon EOS-1D Mark II N

The Canon EOS 1D Mark II N is an update to the EOS-1D Mark II DSLR. It has an 8.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, Digic II processor, 2.5 inch LCD, better buffering features and is able to write simultaneously to two types of cards at once (SD and CF) in different formats. Shooting at 8.5 frames per second the Canon EOS-1D Mark II N will be priced at $3999.

Compare prices on the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N and

get the latest price on the at Amazon

Canon EOS-1D Mark II N News Release

Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today launches the EOS-1D Mark II N: an upgrade of the award winning EOS-1D Mark II. Still featuring 8.2 Megapixel performance at 8.5 frames per second, the upgraded camera has a higher performance buffer to deliver a 48 frame burst in JPEG and 22 frame burst in RAW. LCD monitor size increases from 2.0“ to a 2.5”, and dual CF and SD memory card slots provide for separate RAW and JPEG recording. Colour Matrix and parameter settings are replaced with Canon’s new Picture Style – 6 pre-sets that simplify in-camera control over image optimisation and processing.

“The EOS-1D Mark II took photojournalism and sports photography by storm and was chosen by more than 70% of professional photographers at the 2004 Athens Olympics, ” reported Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “Taking feedback from the professionals as their guide, Canon’s engineers have made a great camera even better.”

Exceptional image quality is assured with an APS-H size (28.7 x 19.1 mm) CMOS sensor and high performance DIGIC II processor. The EOS-1D Mark II N also features 45-point Auto Focus and a start-up time of 0.2 seconds. Its wide 100-1600 ISO speed range is expandable to L:50 and H:3200.

First choice of professional agencies

Launched in January 2004, the EOS-1D Mark II fast became Europe’s best selling professional D-SLR camera . It secured the major share of sports and photojournalism worldwide, with the world’s leading wire agencies such as Reuters, Getty Images and AFP choosing Canon professional products for their photographers. “One of the big pluses of working with Canon is the interaction we get as a ‘body’ of photographers,” explained Stephen Munday, Director of Operations – Editorial, Getty Images. “Canon consults with us about our wish list for new products. When they come to testing a new camera, most of the work has been done because they have listened to their clients – the photographers.”

New screen

For improved image review and menu readability, the EOS-1D Mark II N is fitted with a larger, brighter 2.5“ 230K pixel poly-silicon TFT LCD monitor, giving photographers a significantly larger viewing area. The improved screen has twice the number of backlighting LEDs so that it retains brightness and visibility throughout a wide 170 angle of view, both vertically and horizontally. This makes it easy to view images when camera is mounted in a fixed position. With image playback, the magnified view can now be viewed straight away on any selected AF point , and magnification is possible during the quick review immediately after image capture.

Meeting photographers’ needs, listening to the market

The EOS-1D Mark II N incorporates a host of improvements to enhance performance, operation and speed. To prevent shooting disruption, new folders are now automatically created when image number 9999 is reached in the current folder. A new memory card selection short cut makes it fast and easy to switch between card slots when choosing recording location. A Low Level Format option executes secure and permanent deletion of SD card data and increases SD card write speeds.

When shooting RAW and JPEG simultaneously, images can now be recorded separately onto a different memory card (CF or SD). In-camera file names are now customisable: users can decide the first four characters of the filename and the camera will append the 4 digit image number ¬– a feature particularly useful for agencies and photo libraries dealing with memory cards from multiple photographers.

Ready to use images as standard

New Picture Style pre-sets simplify in-camera control over image quality. The camera’s factory default configuration delivers more immediately usable JPEG images without need for additional menu settings. Picture Style pre-sets can be likened to different film types – each one offering a different colour response. Within each easily selectable pre-set, photographers have control over sharpness, contrast, colour tone and saturation.

The pre-sets include:

* Standard – for crisp, vivid images that don’t require post-processing;
* Portrait – optimises colour tone and saturation and weakens sharpening to achieve attractive skin tones;
* Landscape – for punchier greens and blues with stronger sharpening to give a crisp edge to mountain, tree and building outlines);
* Neutral – ideal for post-processing;
* Faithful – adjusts colour to match the subject colour when shot under a colour temperature of 5200K;
* Monochrome – for black and white shooting with a range of filter effects (yellow, orange, red and green) and toning effects (sepia, blue, purple and green).

Additionally, 3 user defined entries allows the possibility to create additional variations on the in-camera styles or install additional custom Picture Style files. Additional custom Picture Style files may be downloaded from Canon’s web site.

Picture Style replaces internal image processing previously controlled by setting processing parameters and colour matrix. Picture Style is also supported by the supplied Digital Photo Professional and RAW Image Task software.

Exceptional image quality, total reliability

Exceptionally high quality images are assured due to the combination of Canon’s DIGIC II processor and 2nd generation CMOS sensor, which features an on-chip noise elimination circuit to reduce the creation of fixed pattern and random noise. A low-pass filter placed in front of the sensor reduces false colour and moiré effects, while the infrared filter suppresses red fringing caused by sensor reflections and fog.

The EOS-1D Mark II N has a shutter durability of 200,000 cycles, and a weather resistant magnesium-alloy casing with over 70 dust and moisture resistant seals protects the camera.

A new Auto option is available on the Noise reduction menu screen, which offers automatic detection and correction when necessary of noise levels in images with exposures of 1 second or longer.

Compatibility and accessories

The EOS-1D Mark II N is compatible with all Canon EF lenses and the entire EX series Speedlite flash range. Canon's E-TTL II flash system optimises flash exposures by linking distance information from the camera/lens system to the 21-zone evaluative or averaged metering readings from the pre-flash.

The camera’s focussing screens are interchangeable; an optional new ”Super Precision Matte“ Ec-S focussing screen enables easier manual focussing with fast lenses.

With the optional Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E1, photographers can work cable-free as images transfer automatically through a wireless LAN to a computer in seconds . Interfaces include video out (for display in both NTSC and PAL formats), IEEE1394 (Firewire) and USB. The camera is PictBridge compliant for PC-less direct printing to any brand of compatible photo printer.

The EOS-1D Mark II N supports the optional Data Verification Kit DVK-E2 v2.2, which verifies the originality of images taken with the camera.

New software

The EOS-1D Mark II N is bundled with the EOS Digital Solutions Disk v11, which includes an upgraded version of Canon’s RAW image processing software Digital Photo Professional (DPP). DPP v2.0 now supports RAW images shot on all EOS digital cameras from the EOS D30 forwards, and includes support for Picture Styles. Improvements and additions are aimed at improving functionality and workflow efficiency for professionals, and include: easy image selection with three levels of check marks; real-time adjustment of sharpness; improved image correction (Copy Stamp); enhanced image transfer function – single image transfer to PhotoShop is possible; extended colour space support, now including Apple RGB and ColorMatch RGB; and an enhanced CMYK simulation function.

Also provided is on the solution disk is ZoomBrowser EX (PC) and ImageBrowser (MAC) v5.5 for managing images, EOS Capture v1.5 for remote shooting, PhotoStitch v3.1, PhotoRecord v2.2 (PC), RAW ImageTask v2.2 and CameraWindow v 5.3. EOS-1D Mark II N is compatible with CANON iMAGE GATEWAY providing a 100 MB online photo album.

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Canon EOS 1D Mark II N Reviews

CNET Reviews the Canon EOS-1D Mark II N and gives it a rating of 'spectacular' (or 9.0 out of 10). They write - 'The photos I've taken with the Canon EOS-1D Mark II files are smooth and show almost no noise at ISO 100 and ISO 200; even ISO 400 and ISO 800 look very good. There is no sign of the banding that plagued images from the EOS-1D. As with most dSLRs, however, you must be careful not to underexpose your images. Noise can be seen very clearly in images that are too far underexposed. Just to be safe, I prefer to overexpose my images about half a stop, then bring the exposure down when converting the raw file with image-processing software.'

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Aug 22: Pentax *ist DS2

The Pentax *ist DS2 is an update of the original *ist DS from Pentax. It features very similar features ot the *ist DS including the same 6 megapixel sensor (CCD) but increases the size of the LCD - taking it up to 2.5 inches. They've also decreased the weight of it by 35 grams.

All in all there isn't much to write home about with this 'upgrade' - from all appearances it's a purely cosmetic tweak of what has been a solid camera for Pentax.

The Pentax *ist DS2 will hit stores in September of 2005 - it's price will be $799.99 (body only).

Pentax *ist DS2 News Release

PENTAX Imaging Company announced today it will continue to expand its digital SLR line with another new model and accessories.

The latest model, the PENTAX *ist DS2 digital SLR camera, comes equipped with a large, high-resolution 2.5 inch color LCD monitor and a high-magnification glass pentaprism viewfinder for a large, clear view at every stage of digital photography from shooting to playback to editing. With its enhanced operability and maneuverability, the new *ist DS2 assures high-quality digital SLR photography to photographers of all levels.

“Following in the footsteps of the *ist DS, our most popular digital SLR to date, the *ist DS2 is a user-friendly camera that is an ideal digital SLR choice for use by families that include beginning and more advanced photographers,” said Ned Bunnell, director of marketing, PENTAX Imaging Company.

PENTAX also announced another DA lens and an auto flash unit for use with the latest digital SLR and the entire line of PENTAX digital SLR cameras.

PENTAX will ship the smc PENTAX DA 12mm-24mm F4 ED AL [IF] lens in October 2005. First announced earlier in the year, the latest digital SLR lens offers ultra wide-angle coverage and exceptional optical performance for digital SLR users. The smc 12mm-24mm marks the eighth lens product offering developed by PENTAX that is optimized for digital SLR sensors.

PENTAX also unveiled an AF540FGZ auto flash unit featuring a large guide number of 54 (at ISO100/m). This clip-on, twist/tilt, auto-zoom flash provides a variety of advanced flash applications, including P-TTL auto flash, high-speed synchronization and wireless P-TTL auto flash, when mounted on a PENTAX SLR camera.

Availability of the PENTAX *ist DS2 digital SLR is September 2005 for under $800 US for body alone. The 12-24 lens will ship for under $900. The AF540FGZ auto flash will ship in October 2005 for under $400 US.

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, sport optics, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation of Japan.

# # #

PENTAX *ist DS2 Digital SLR FACT SHEET (all specs subject to change)
Major Features

Large, high-resolution color LCD monitor
The *ist DS2 incorporates a high-precision 2.5-inch color LCD monitor with approximately 210,000 pixels for easier post-shooting image confirmation. Recorded images can be magnified up to 12 times during playback for closer examination of subject focus and image details. In addition, on-screen menus are displayed with large, easy-to-read letters and digits to facilitate user operations.

Compact, go-anywhere design
Featuring a host of advanced downsizing developments, including a high-rigidity stainless-steel chassis, multi-layered electronic circuit boards and high-density packaging technology, the *ist DS2 is designed extremely compact and lightweight — measuring 4.9 inches (125mm) wide, 3.6 inches (92.5mm) high and 2.6 inches (67mm) thick, the *ist DS2 weighs 17.8 ounces (505 grams) without batteries and an SD memory card.

Bright, high-magnification pentaprism viewfinder
The *ist DS2 comes equipped with a glass pentaprism viewfinder offering a 95% field of view and 0.95times magnification. The camera offers a large, bright viewfinder image equal in size, clarity and brightness to those incorporated in conventional 35mm format SLRs to make confirmation of the subject’s focus easier even in manual focus mode.

High-definition, maximum-gradation images with 6.1 effective megapixels
With a large, high performance CCD image sensor measuring 23.5mm by 15.7mm, the *ist DS2 offers 6.1 effective megapixels. Coupled with original image processing technology from PENTAX, it produces high-definition images rich in gradation and saturation. It also offers a choice of finishing touch between “Bright” and “Natural” to reflect the photographer’s creative intention.

Auto sensitivity setting
Like many digital compact cameras, the *ist DS2 features an “AUTO” position for sensitivity setting. In this position, the camera’s sensitivity is automatically set by the camera, based on such factors as subject brightness and lens focal length, while the user can randomly select the upper limit of sensitivity between the standard output of 400 and 3200. This position is extremely useful to avoid camera shake in poorly lit locations and to prevent sensitivity resetting failures by the photographer.

Compatibility with PENTAX interchangeable lenses
The *ist DS2 offers the outstanding benefit of lens interchangeability, allowing the user to take advantage of a wide selection of existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses to deal with diversified subjects and applications.*
*PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount 35mm-format lenses can be used without an adapter or modification. PENTAX screw-mount 35mm-format lenses and PENTAX 645- and 67-system lenses can be used with an adapter. Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.

User-friendly function guidance
Taking full advantage of its large LCD monitor, the *ist DS2 offers convenient and informative function guidance, which not only provides a detailed explanation of shooting, drive and flash modes and white-balance settings using text and pictures, but also displays a comprehensive list of current camera settings for at-a-glance confirmation.

User-friendly automatic operations
The *ist DS2 is equipped to make camera operations simple and effortless for the user. Its innovative Auto Picture Mode automatically and instantly selects the optimum combination of exposure settings for a given subject or situation, including shutter speed, aperture, white balance, saturation, contrast, and intensity of edges. The built-in auto flash automatically pops up in dimly lit or backlit situations.

Simple, accessible operation system
From the multi-function four-way controller to the responsive electronic AV/TV dials and the large, easy-to-use mode dial, all switches and dials are efficiently and functionally laid out around the *ist DS2’s compact body to assure smooth, fingertip control.

High-precision 16-segment multi-pattern metering
The *ist DS2 incorporates an advanced 16-segment metering system to assure high-precision light measurement, even under complicated lighting conditions. Center-weighted metering and spot metering are also available to meet specialized applications.

High-accuracy 11-point AF sensor
The *ist DS2 features the sophisticated SAFOX VIII AF system incorporating 11 AF sensors (nine of them in a cross-type wide-area sensor grid in the middle). This not only provides accurate, pinpoint autofocusing on a wide variety of subjects, but also lets the user select one of the sensors to accommodate a specific image composition. It also offers a choice of AF-single or AF-continuous** AF mode to accommodate different types of requirements.
** In the Auto Picture and Picture modes, AF-continuous is activated only when the Action mode is selected.

Superimposed AF sensor point indication
The selected AF sensor point is highlighted in red in the viewfinder for easy visual confirmation.

1/4000-second high-speed shutter
The *ist DS2 features a high-speed shutter unit with a top speed of 1/4000 second and a top synchronization speed of 1/180 second to assure greater visual creativity.

High-speed consecutive shooting
The *ist DS2 records up to eight images (in JPEG format, at Best image format and with noise reduction off) consecutively at a speed of approximately 2.8 frames per second, allowing the user to capture a series of the subject’s action or movement.

SD memory card compatibility
The *ist DS2 uses the widely available SD memory card as its storage media, not only assuring high-speed recording and readout of image data, but also contributing to the downsizing of the camera body.

Others

• 19 user-programmable custom functions to personalize camera operations to the user’s preferences
• Noise-reduction system to minimize annoying digital noise during extended exposures
• Dual power source, with a choice of two CR-V3 lithium batteries or four AA-size batteries
• USB2.0 HIGH-SPEED compatibility for speedy data uploading to a PC
• Functional playback functions, including 12X zoom display and nine-image thumbnail display
• A choice of image format between JPEG (best, better or good) and RAW
• Four built-in digital filters (black-and-white, sepia, slim, and three-level soft) for easy editing of recorded images
• PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 2.1 RAW-data processing software and PENTAX Photo Browser 2.1 browser software included
• PictBridge compatibility
• PENTAX, smc PENTAX, *ist, PENTAX PHOTO Browser and PENTAX PHOTO Labratory are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation

All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

This product supports PRINT Image Matching III. PRINT Image Matching enabled digital still cameras, printers and software help photographers to produce images more faithful to their intentions. Some functions are not available on printers that are not PRINT Image Matching III compliant

Pentax *ist DS2 Reviews

Steves Digicams reviews the Pentax *ist DS2 Digital SLR and writes - 'The *ist DS2's default Image Tone setting of Bright produced well-saturated images right out of the camera. Colors were natural, but a bit soft; most users will prefer a hard sharpness setting, or the application of an image editor's unsharp mask filter. The image noise was practically non-existant at ISO 200, at ISO 400 it's still very clean, and at ISO 800 shadow noise becomes noticeable. At ISO 1600 noise becomes noticeable in highlights, but the images are quite usable. I would use ISO 3200 only if it made the difference between capturing an image or not. While noise is present at the higher ISO settings, the *ist DS2 compares favorably in this respect with the high-end prosumer digicams that overlap its price range.'

CNET gives a rating of 7.2 out of 10 to the Pentax *ist DS2 in it's review of the DSLR and writes - 'Like the DS, the Pentax *ist DS2 is a relatively light but robust and easy-to-navigate digital SLR, with 6- megapixel resolution, an impressively bright viewfinder, responsive 11-point autofocus, and a wide array of advanced automatic and manual features that should please longtime SLR enthusiasts without befuddling newcomers. The picture quality is generally solid, with minimal noise at typical settings and nearly no chromatic aberration. A minor weakness is the DS2's erratic automatic white balance, but overall, the DS2 is a hearty, well-performing, intuitive, and easy-to-handle camera. For those approaching the dSLR market with a bag of Pentax lenses--or no lenses at all--it's a camera to consider.'

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Aug 22: Konica Minolta DiMAGE Scan Elite 5400 II

Photographic Magazine reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Scan Elite 5400 II film scanner and writes - 'With its high resolution, excellent dynamic range and built-in Digital Ice, the Konica Minolta Scan Elite 5400 II is an excellent way for film photographers to move their work into the digital darkroom. The estimated street price of $570 makes this one of the best bargains around, easily beating the competition in price and features.'

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Aug 22: Nikon D70s Reviewed - Photographic Magazine

Photographic Magazine reviews the Nikon D70s and writes - 'The camera has a good, solid feel, and the controls are well located and easy to use. The large LCD monitor is excellent; I could read it without my reading glasses. It is a pain to have to scroll through the LCD monitor menus every time I want to switch from single-shot AF to continuous AF or vice versa, but otherwise the D70s was a pleasure to use. It’s an excellent entry-level AF SLR, and provides enough features and performance to serve as a backup camera for pros.'

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Aug 22: Praktica Luxmedia 5203

The Praktica Luxmedia 5203 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with 2.4 inch LCD, 3x Optical Zoom and 32 megabytes of internal memory.

Praktica Luxmedia 5203 News Release Extract

Luxmedia 5203 – The world on 61 millimeters

Small pictures were yesterday. The times of focussing an object through a tiny monitor are definately over. Gone are days that left you with uncertainty if the pictures you took were really good. With 2.4“ screensize (ca. 6.1 cm) Praktica introduces with it’s Luxmedia 5203 a new way of taking photos.

A compact design and an intelligibly organized menu allows an intuitive handling of this high-quality product. The symbiosis of a 3x optical zoom and a 5.1 mega pixels CCD sensor results in razor-sharp images which are instantly viewable on the 61 millimeters monitor.

The easy to use pre-set scene modes with 9 different settings possible are a practical and comfortable way to assure perfect pictures. Gone are the days of arduous adjustments – the appropriate settings are just one click away. Even with less light the built-in flash optimizes the pictures.

The focal width ranges from 5.95 – 17.4 mm (35 mm film equivalent). The speed can be adapted individually from 8 till 1/2000 seconds and the exposure value can be set from – 2.0 to + 2.0 in 1/3 steps.

The Luxmedia 5203 uses standard alcaline batteries or Ni-Mh rechargeable batteries and distinguishes itself by a low energy consumption. The internal 32 MB memory can be extented with SD cards.

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Aug 22: Praktica Luxmedia 5303

The Praktica Luxmedia 5303 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with 2.4 inch LCD, 3x Optical Zoom, MP3 player and 16 megabytes of internal memory.

Praktica Luxmedia 5303 News Release

Luxmedia 5303 – Melodic colours

Not many inventions in the field of entertainment electronics have influenced the way we consume media in the last couple of years. Digital cameras or MP3 players are certainly on top of the list. Both share an easy to use handling and the possibility to erase unwanted recordings in an instant. That way they quickly became favourite gadgets and must-haves to either escape from the reality or to keep it.

With its brandnew Luxmedia 5303 Praktica is fusing both technologies into one high-end product, which fullfills the highest dreams. Behind a 3x optical zoom a 5.1 mega pixels CCD sensor assures high quality images that can be viewed on the 2.4“ TFT screen immediately. The dashing black body smoothes the composition and makes the camera a real eye-catcher.

The exposure time can be set from 8 till 1/2000 seconds and the exposure value can be adapted individually from +2.0 till –2.0 in 0.2 steps. Even small video clips as a MPEG4 stream can be recorded and played afterwards. With a built-in speaker and an adjustable resolution of either 640x480 pixels or 320x240 pixels the Luxmedia 5303 opens wholly new dimensions.

The absolute highlight of the Luxmedia 5303 however ist the built-in MP3 Player. Praktica steps with the symbiosis into the future and leaves the usual way digital cameras are used. Whether your on a vacation on the beach or on a business trip – music and pictures are just on click away.

The built-in 16 MB memory can easily be enhanced with SD cards (up to the size of 1 GB) and that way allows you to store even more pictures or music files

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Aug 22: Fuji FinePix Z1 Review - Imaging Resource

Imaging Resource reviews the Fuji FinePix Z1 Digital Camera and writes - 'The compact, oh-so-stylish Fujifilm FinePix Z1 follows in the footsteps of their excellent medium-sized F10 model, although it doesn't quite match that model's exceptional low-light performance. It does well in that regard though when compared against the other compact and subcompact digital cameras with which it competes. Photo quality is generally good, but it does tend to oversaturate reds, and other colors come out a bit less saturated than they do with many competing cameras. Like most compact digital cameras, the Z1's battery life is also on the short side. Arguably, the Z1's greatest strength is its great responsiveness, with very short startup and shutdown times, and shutter response that would be the envy of many full-sized cameras.'

Read more about the Fujifilm Finepix Z1

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Aug 22: Fujifilm FinePix Z1 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Fujifilm FinePix Z1 and recommends - 'Is the FinePix Z1 a fashion accessory that can take photographs, or a camera that doubles as a fashion accessory? Fuji has done a good job of combining form and function, balancing those often contradictory design goals. The Z1 produces good image quality and performs well while allowing you to make a fashion statement. If you're concerned equally with form and function, and can live with the limited flash range and keep your finger off the lens, the Fujifilm Z1 may be the right camera for you.'

Read more about the Fujifilm Finepix Z1

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Aug 21: Pentax *ist DL Review - Lets Go Digital

Lets Go Digital reviews the Pentax *ist DL Digital Camera and writes - 'All in all the Pentax *ist DL did an excellent job. The difference with the *ist DS is minimal. It is a choice between some more options, a real prism, a somewhat better auto focus (*istDS) and a larger monitor with a lower price tag (*istDL). But the Pentax *ist DL is not only catching up with its big brother. It's also a strong competitor for the Nikon D50. And had the Pentax *ist DL been equipped with a better auto focus, then market leader Canon would have had to be aware too. The Pentax *ist DL deserves to get every bit of attention, it's a very attractive, affordable camera and will be an excellent choice for many photographers.'

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Aug 20: Kodak extends lead over Japanese rivals in U.S. digital-camera market

'Eastman Kodak Co. is stretching its lead over Japanese rivals Canon Inc. and Sony Corp. in the U.S. digital-camera market.

Kodak shipped 1.25 million point-shoot digital cameras to domestic retailers in the April-to-June quarter - 51 per cent more than in the second quarter of 2004 - and its market share rose to 23.8 per cent from 18.3 per cent a year ago, according to research firm IDC of Framingham, Mass.

Canon Inc. solidified its second-place ranking with 1.15 million shipments in the second quarter, and its slice of the U.S. market surged to 21.9 per cent from 15.2 per cent a year ago, IDC analyst Christopher Chute said Tuesday.'

Read more at Kodak extends lead over Japanese rivals in U.S. digital-camera market

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Aug 20: Pentax Optio S5z Review - CNET Reviews

CNET Reviews the Pentax Optio S5z and writes - 'Pentax seems to be taking the penta in its name to heart these days. With no fewer than six 5-megapixel models on the market, the company contributes even more than most manufacturers to this burgeoning group of digital cameras. The lead entry is the Pentax Optio S5z, a pocket-size camera offering a 3X optical zoom, high-resolution movies, and a large LCD. The Pentax's feature set goes a step beyond point-and-shoot but lacks the manual exposure controls that would take the Optio S5z to the next level.'

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Aug 19: Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6

The Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 is a 6.0 megapixel digital camera with a 12x optical zoom lens featuring anti shake technology and a 2 inch LCD.

In reality it is an update of the Dimage Z5 and is almost identical to its predecessor except for the extra megapixels, movie modes and extended battery life.

Expect to pay $399 (USD) for the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 when it hits stores in September of 2005.

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Konica Minolta DiMage Z6 Reviews

Lets Go Digital reviews the Konica-Minolta DiMAGE Z6 Digital Camera and consider it to a be a pretty decent buy buy giving it a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5. They write - 'we may consider the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6 a fine successor of the DiMAGE Z5 camera, without extraordinary changes. The resolution raise doesn't bring a lot in terms of percentage, but in the long run it will prove to be the perfect choice when the lower resolution DiMAGE Z5 version will disappear. The camera is all-round applicable, offers an excellent innovation: the Anti-Shake system and moreover; its design nicely stands out from the crowd. Price / quality ratio is excellent and Konica Minolta brings a very attractive digital camera into the market that will certainly not be a flash in the pan. Here's one to stay, a definite must! '

Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6 is a good option in the field of point and shoot, ultra zoom cameras. The quick auto focus, minimal shutter lag, excellent battery life, great 12x zoom, and excellent Anti-Shake feature makes the mid-$300 price tag very reasonable. Since I liked the way this camera operated so much, I really wanted it to perform well in the image quality department, but the overexposure, lack of detail, and higher than average noise are pretty apparent.'

CNET Reviews has a review of the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 and writes - 'One of several 12X-zoom cameras on the market, the 6-megapixel Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 differs in only a few respects from its 5-megapixel predecessor, the Dimage Z5. In addition to the resolution bump and the silver face-lift, the Z6 provides a slightly larger image buffer and, unfortunately, a lower-resolution movie mode. However, the Z5's primary attractions remain: 12X zoom, Anti-Shake technology, and a well-rounded feature set that includes manual exposure controls. Keen-eyed photographers might fuss about image quality, but the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 offers enough benefits at an affordable price to attract enthusiasts who want an SLR-like feel and a long-reach lens.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6 and writes - 'we felt a little let down by this latest addition to the "Z" line. While it offers all of the features we love about these "super zoom" models, its mediocre image quality really drags it down. It has the ability to capture awesome video, but only at the smaller 320x240 resolution. With a MSRP of $399, it offers an OK value, especially for those who enjoy taking portraits. If you're in the market for a digicam with great telephoto capabilities and love the features of Konica Minolta's "Z" series, but don't necessarily need 6-megapixels of resolution, we recommend you take a look at the 5-megapixel DiMAGE Z5.'

Digital Camera Info reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6 and writes - 'The DiMAGE Z6 is a budget compact camera with a 12x lens. It�s not budget in terms of construction � Konica Minolta's Anti-Shake mechanism moves the CCD, not a lens element, after all. It performs like a budget camera, though. An ultra zoom should have more serious capability than the Z6 offers. The displays aren't good enough to check the images; they're small, and low-resolution. The ISO ratings are limiting, too. ISO 320 just isn't good enough for available light shooting indoors. A fair number of bird watchers use super zooms, and ISO 320 sure won't be good enough to catch the twilight-feeding warblers and finches.'

Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 has an impressive specification, outstandingly good handling and above average performance, all for a very good price. There are few cameras that can match its zoom range, and the anti-shake system means that it�s usable even at full zoom. It would suit a birdwatcher, keen amateur photographer or anyone who appreciates good design.'

Cameras.co.uk reviews the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 and writes - 'The main drawback I found with this camera is the colours it produces. Whereas I have become used to seeing deep, vivid colours this camera had a habit of adding a purple tinge to a photo. This is something I have noticed with other Konica Minolta digital cameras. Unfortunately it affects nearly all types of photographs and in my view is a major handicap.... There are many digital cameras with long zoom lenses to choose between. In my opinion the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 struggles to keep up with the competition. I was disappointed with the colours the camera produced and I also have concerns about the shutter lag. Therefore I would suggest looking elsewhere if this type of digital camera appeals to you.'

Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 News Release

KONICA MINOLTA INTRODUCES THE NEW DIMAGE Z6 DIGITAL CAMERA

This high performance 6.0-megapixel digital camera features a built-in 12x optical Mega Zoom lens, Konica Minolta’s anti-shake system, rapid autofocus (AF), and excellent battery performance

Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. introduces the new 6.0-megapixel DiMAGE Z6 digital camera. This camera offers a built-in 12x optical Mega Zoom lens, Konica Minolta's proprietary Anti-Shake system, Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control for fast overall responsiveness, built-in flash and excellent battery performance.

“The combination of advanced imaging features within the new DiMAGE Z6 digital camera allows photographers to take exceptionally crisp, sharp photographs in virtually any picture-taking situation,” said Paul Zakrzewski, Director of Product Management for Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc.

The Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6 incorporates its 12x optical Mega Zoom lens and large 2.0-inch LCD monitor into a compact and easy to hold camera design. The DiMAGE Z6’s built-in 12x optical zoom lens and 4x digital zoom capability combine for a total zoom range of 48x.

In addition, Konica Minolta’s proprietary CCD-shift Anti-Shake system—the same system used in Konica Minolta’s top-of-the-line Maxxum 7D digital Single Lens-Reflex (SLR) camera, and first featured in Konica Minolta’s DiMAGE A series of digital cameras—allows photographers to shoot with shutter speeds four to eight times longer (2-3 stops) than when shooting without an Anti-Shake system. The system also provides steady, shake-free images in twilight or other dimly lit situations, which are susceptible to blurring because of the slow shutter speeds used. This means significantly sharper images even without the use of a flash or tripod.

The new DiMAGE Z6 has everything photographers need to take high-quality pictures: 6.0 effective megapixels, high-performance GT APO lens, and Konica Minolta’s proprietary CxProcess™ III image processing technology, which gives users images as beautiful as those they see with their own eyes.

Thanks to its energy-efficient design, the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z6 lets users enjoy picture-taking longer with four widely available AA Alkaline batteries that power the camera for up to approximately 240 shots, as well as compatibility with high-capacity rechargeable Ni-MH batteries for up to approximately 420 shots.

To ensure that photographers don’t miss a shot, the new DiMAGE Z6 offers ultra-fast, accurate Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control. Focusing in a mere 0.2 second at the wide-angle zoom position and only 0.3 second at the telephoto position, the DiMAGE Z6 is ideal for accurately capturing any subject, moving or still.

In addition to high-precision Rapid AF, the DiMAGE Z6 features a fast startup time and short shutter-release lag time. In addition, the camera’s Progressive Capture drive mode records images continuously at approximately 1.8 frames per second regardless of image size or quality, and saves the last 10 frames simply by releasing the shutter button.

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Aug 19: Konica Minolta AF 35mm f/1.4G (D) Lens

Konica Minolta Photo Imaging today announced the development of the Konica Minolta AF 35mm f/1.4G (D)* interchangeable lens for Maxxum digital and 35mm Single Lens-Reflex (SLR) cameras. The lens is planned for release in the spring of 2006.

“With the development of this new lens Konica Minolta not only expands it’s offering of lenses designed for the digital Maxxum series of cameras, but this lens also allows us to enhance our lineup of lenses available for Maxxum film cameras,” said Paul Zakrzewski, Director of Product Management for Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc.

Development Targets
The Konica Minolta AF 35mm f/1.4G (D) lens was developed as the successor model of the Konica Minolta AF 35mm f/1.4G lens that has been well accepted among photographers for the beautiful defocused effect rendered around the aperture. This new interchangeable lens was developed for use with both Konica Minolta Maxxum digital and 35mm film cameras and delivers clear and sharp images using a newly designed optical system. The lens also enables advanced flash metering capabilities due to a distance encoder that has been built into the lens.

Konica Minolta will continue to expand its lineup of lenses for digital and 35mm SLR cameras by developing new supporting lenses with features expected and found only on Konica Minolta products such as the G and STF Lenses whose wide diameter bring superior descriptive power to users.

Features

• Wide f/1.4 bright high-performance wide-angle lens
• High picture quality across the entire focal range
• Built-in distance encoder (distance information provided internally by lens). Highly accurate ADI flash metering** when used with Maxxum digital SLR cameras and other Maxxum 35mm SLR bodies.
• Adopts the highly rated round aperture of the Konica Minolta AF 35mm F1.4G. Inherits the beautiful defocused effect particularly at distances at between open aperture and 2 f-stops narrower.

* Product name has been tentatively named for this release, with the final name to be announced at later date.
**ADI (Advanced Distance Integration) flash metering

Konica Minolta will continue to further upgrade the Maxxum system by developing interchangeable lenses, in order meet user needs on a higher level.

Maxxum is a trademark or registered trademark of Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc.

Source: Konica Minolta News Release

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Aug 19: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 Review - Hardware Zone

Hardware Zone reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 and writes -'As seen from the test shots below, the 8.4-megapixel Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX1using Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens captures clear details and colors that are definitely better than 5-megapixel ultra-compact cameras that are of similar size as this Panasonic. We are really impressed with the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX1 and would recommend this amazing camera for amateurs wanting to step up to professional photography, but needs the portability of an ultra-compact body and the convenience of having preset and manual controls. This is truly a hybrid camera with a unique flavor that should appeal to a wide target audience.'

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Aug 19: Fast Growth In Focus For Asia-Pacific Digital Camera Market

'The Asia-Pacific digital camera market experienced tremendous growth in 2004 during a regional economic recovery, reports In-Stat http:/www.in-stat.com Digital camera market revenue in the 15 countries in this region escalated by 14.2%, to US$5.26 billion, the high-tech market research firm says. The regional digital camera market is expected to continue growing strongly to US$ 7.3 billion in 2009.

The market escalation in 2004 was greatly fueled by strong domestic economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region. As the Chinese market is still far from saturated, the momentum is expected to continue at least for the next several years.'

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Aug 19: Digital Camera Buyer's Guide

About.com has posted a Digital Camera Buyer's Guide - a step by step lesson in choosing your digital camera which might be helpful for the many readers of this site that are in the market for a new camera. it's filled with links to other tips on about.com that come together to give an all round useful guide.

What tips would you give a new digital camera buyer?

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Aug 18: Samsung Digimax V700 Review - PC Magazine

PC Magazine reviews the Samsung Digimax V700 and writes - 'Samsung has been bold recently, laying out plans to penetrate the digital camera market and position itself among the leaders, up with Canon, Nikon, and Sony. But it certainly won't get there making mediocre cameras like the 7.1-megapixel Digimax V700. Given the problems we found in testing and using this compact, the V700 falls far short of its competition.'

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Aug 18: Digital Camera Users Studied - More Satisfied than Ever Before

We were just sent a news release (see below) announcing the results of a study of digital camera owners which shows some interesting results including:

- Digital camera buyers are increasingly satisfied with the functionality and speed of the cameras they purchase, particularly with cameras in the lower price segments. The gap in terms of camera performance between high and low-priced cameras has shrunk considerably compared to 2004.
- Kodak ranks as the highest manufacturer in the $199 or less and the $200-$399 categories for user satisfaction.
- Sony ranked highest in the $400-$599 and $600+ categories
- DSLRs make up the fastest growing segment of the digital camera market
- 62% of digital camera buyers use the Internet to research cameras before making a purchase
- Digital camera owners are also turning to the Internet more than ever before to share their digital photos with others.

Read full details of the study in the following news release

J.D. Power and Associates News Release:

Kodak and Sony Lead the Industry in Satisfying Digital Camera Owners
Consumers find improved functionality and speed in new digital cameras on the market, even as digital camera prices fall, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study(SM) released today.

The study finds digital camera buyers are increasingly satisfied with the functionality and speed of the cameras they purchase, particularly with cameras in the lower price segments. The gap in terms of camera performance between high and low-priced cameras has shrunk considerably compared to 2004.

“This is a great time for consumers to buy a digital camera, as improving technology and falling prices make digital cameras more accessible than ever to the average buyer,” said Ron Conlin, partner at J.D. Power and Associates. “Buyers are getting more camera for their money, and this is clearly reflected in satisfaction ratings. The challenge to camera manufacturers is to offer consumers products that are versatile, yet easy to use, since customers who are most satisfied with their current camera are also most likely to be loyal to the brand in the future.”

The study measures satisfaction of digital camera owners across four price segments: $199 or less; $200-$399; $400-$599; and $600 or more. Overall satisfaction is based on performance across four factors: performance, connectivity, cost and appearance.

Kodak ranks highest in the $199 or less price segment and, for the second consecutive year, in the $200-$399 segment. Kodak experiences considerable gains in customer satisfaction ratings in both segments, receiving high ratings from owners in performance, connectivity and cost. Kodak also receives the highest ratings in the $200-$399 segment for appearance.

Sony ranks highest in the $400-$599 and $600 or more segments, with very strong satisfaction improvements. Sony performs particularly well in both segments in appearance, performance and connectivity and leads the $600 or more segment in cost.

The study finds that DSLRs (digital single-lens reflex cameras with interchangeable lenses) make up the fastest-growing segment in the market. While particularly popular among serious photographers, these high-end models are increasingly attracting mainstream consumers.

“With many features previously reserved for more expensive cameras now being offered on lower-priced models, the interchangeable lenses that characterize DSLR models help to differentiate them from the rest of the market,” said Conlin. “Manufacturers also made pricey DSLR cameras more attractive to consumers by allowing buyers to use lenses from their old film-based SLR cameras. For all their complexity, DSLRs are becoming an excellent value for the money and have spawned an industry of aftermarket accessories such as lenses and strobes.”

The study also finds that the Internet plays an important role in helping digital camera buyers make their purchase decisions, and buyers are relying less on recommendations from retail salespeople. Overall, 62 percent of buyers used the Internet to conduct research before purchasing a camera.

“There is a wealth of information available to consumers on the Internet that helps camera buyers decipher which models fit their needs,” said Conlin. “With a dizzying array of models and features on the market, consumers should first decide how they plan to use the camera and how much they to want to spend. Whether using Web sites or consumer publications, doing the research ahead of time certainly increases the chances a buyer will be happy with what they ultimately buy.”

Digital camera owners are also turning to the Internet more than ever before to share their digital photos with others. While consumers are increasingly using online photo sites and retail locations to make prints of photos, 21 percent of digital camera owners post photos to an online service such as Snapfish.com and Kodakgallery.com—up from 16 percent in 2004.

The 2005 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 4,256 consumers who purchased a digital camera between January 2005 and July 2005. For more information on customer satisfaction performance of digital camera brands, visit the J.D. Power Consumer Center at http://www.jdpower.com.

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Aug 18: Pentax Optio S5Z Review - Trusted Reviews

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Pentax Optio S5Z and writes - 'It’s debateable whether the addition of a 2.5in monitor to an already perfectly good camera really contributes anything useful, but Pentax apparently thinks so. The range of interesting features on offer is impressive, while the easy-to-use controls, attractive compact style and superb build quality make this a very good general snapshot camera. Despite some lens distortion image quality is good, and the S5z represents excellent value for money.'

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Aug 17: Nikon D50 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Nikon D50 DSLR and writes - 'The D50's image quality was excellent. Its exposure and autofocus system complemented each other, producing sharp, well-exposed images. The 5-point AF system is fast and accurate, and its predictive focus tracking is able to keep up with moving subjects. Image noise was not an issue with the D50. At ISO 200 and 400 noise was essentially absent. Shadow noise is detectable in images captured at ISO 800, and noticeable at ISO 1600, but highlight noise is remarkably low even at ISO 1600. The quality of the D50's images at high sensitivity settings will be a compelling benefit to photographers upgrading from consumer digicams.'

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Aug 17: Kodak EasyShare V550 Zoom Review - Photoxels

Photoxels reviews the Kodak EasyShare V550 Zoom and writes - 'The Kodak EasyShare V550 Zoom is basically a P&S digital camera that gives well exposed, vivid and sharpened images straight out of the camera. Though it allows some manual adjustments, I wouldn't count on them too much because they are limited. Add the optional Printer Dock Series 3 printer and you have One-Touch facility in printing 4x6 in. prints in the convenience of your home.'

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Aug 16: HP Photosmart E317

The HP Photosmart E317 is an updated version of the previously released E217. It has a fixed focal length lens, in camera red eye removal, PictBridge compatibility and 5 megapixel sensor (CCD).

The HP Photosmart E317 measures 96.0 x 49.0 x 28.8mm, weighs 120 grams, has a 1.5 LCD screen and a SD/MMC card slot.

Get the Latest Price on the "HP PhotoSmart E317 - Digital camera - 5.0 Mpix - supported memory: MMC, SD" (Hewlett Packard)

HP Photosmart E317 News Release

HP today unveiled the HP Photosmart E317 Digital Camera. Ideal for first time digital photographers, this great value camera offers a range of intuitive functions and easy-to-use features, making the transition into digital photography simple and enjoyable.

Featuring great quality 5 megapixel (MP) resolution, the HP Photosmart E317 Digital Camera delivers the type of crisp, vivid photos normally offered by a much more expensive camera. Taking photos with such impressive resolution gives users the freedom to produce high quality prints in a range of sizes from 10 x 15 cm up to A4. Additionally, the camera features five shooting modes, including ‘action mode’, ‘portrait mode’ and ‘sunset mode’, for optimised image quality in a variety of conditions.

A 3.8 cm LCD screen allows photographers to preview and edit all of their photos as soon as they are taken. Simple to use on-screen menus guide users through the process of storing, amending and deleting files without the need for a PC. Utilising the cameras 16 MB of internal memory, users can store up to 70 photos (at VGA resolution) to share with their friends and family.

The cameras intuitive button layout and 4x zoom (1x optical /4x digital) allows users to simply point, click and shoot great images every time. Likewise, the auto-flash function automatically detects the surrounding lighting conditions when an image is being taken. This feature ensures that the brightness and exposure of a photo is hardly ever compromised, helping users to produce the highest quality images every time.

With the ability to record and store short video clips, the HP Photosmart E317 Digital Camera gives beginners the freedom to relax. The ability to shoot moving images makes it simple for even the most inexperienced digital photographers to capture vividly the true feeling of an event or celebration.

To complete the digital photography experience, users can utilise HP’s Image Zone software which allows photos to be edited, organised and shared from a PC. Using HP Instant Share Software, users can email their images to whom ever they choose without the problem of large file attachments. This camera is PictBridge enabled, which means users can transfer their digital images to any printer via a plug and play USB connection or memory card quickly and simply.

As an optional accessory, the camera can be complemented by the stylish HP Photosmart Silver Camera Case (Q6217A) not only looks good, but protects the digital camera from the bumps and scratches which come from every day use.

The HP Photosmart E317 Digital Camera is available from September 1 at a street price of €129*.

*prices may vary from country to country

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Aug 16: Nikon D2X Review - PC Magazine

PC Magazine reviews the Nikon D2X DSLR and writes - 'Digital-SLR enthusiasts and even pro shooters will be rendered speechless when they pick up Nikon's top-of-the-line D-SLR, the 12.3-megapixel Nikon D2X ($4,999.95 list). After the oooohs and aaaahs (and recovery from the shock of its very high price), there will be a long pause as they analyze all the features available on the D2X's body (the camera doesn't come with either a kit lens or a built-in flash).'

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Aug 16: Nikon D50 Review - PC Magazine

PC Magazine reviews the Nikon D50 DSLR and writes - 'When it comes to the digital SLR market, Nikon has always focused on high-end, professional models like the D2X. While the company has not ignored consumer D-SLRs, its primary mission has always been serving pro shooters. That is why we were pleasantly surprised by the introduction of the D50 and what seems to be more of a commitment to the consumer. The D50 has a great price and includes helpful, user-friendly features. These, combined with excellent quality and performance, made it easy to single out this camera as our new Editors' Choice for D-SLRs.'

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Aug 16: Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro review by PC Magazine

PC Magazine reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro and writes - 'Like the Fujifilm FinePix S2 Pro before it, the new Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro is built on the Nikon N80 film SLR chassis—one of the most enjoyable cameras to hold. Because the N80 is a plastic-bodied camera, however, it's not as rugged as other pro cameras, such as the Nikon D2X, which has a harder magnesium-alloy body. It's just one of the ways in which the S3 Pro seems to exhibit an identity problem: Is it an expensive consumer digital SLR or a cheaper alternative to the high-priced pro D-SLRs? That's a question that you may have to answer for yourself, depending on your needs.'

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Aug 16: Casio Exilim EX-Z57 Review - Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info reviews the Casio Exilim EX-Z57 Digital Camera and writes - 'With a 1/2.5-inch 5 megapixel CCD sensor and large 2.7-inch LCD screen available for under $300 online, the 3.48 x 2.28 x 0.89–inch aluminum alloy Exilim EX-Z57 appears to be an enticing package. Other attention-grabbing elements are the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery that reportedly attains 400 shots per charge (CIPA standards), 23 preset shooting modes, a video capture setting, and despite the scarcity of manual controls, a custom white balance setting. The graphical design of the menu is perhaps the most impressive element of all. The interface graphics are well structured to provide optimal visibility in direct light and dark shooting situations.

However, the camera only appears enticing at first glance. Look closer and the camera has some cardinal deficiencies. While the oversized LCD screen might sound attractive, the Z57’s 2.7“ screen sounds far better than it actually performs. The 115,200 pixel monitor displays images with minimal sharpness and poor color reproduction. The screen itself consumes 3/4 of the back of the frame; a problem when there is no mode dial and the back of the camera houses all controls other than the shutter and power buttons. The cramped layout will limit the camera’s audience, and users with larger hands might forgo the Z57 entirely rather than deal with the headache (or hand ache) of operating it.'

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Aug 16: Sanyo Xacti E6

German site DigitalKamera.de has news of a new Xacti camera from Sanyo - the Sanyo Xacti E6 - a 6 megapixel (CCD) camera with 3x Optical Zoom, a massive 3 inch touch sensitive LCD, 9 point Autofocusing, four flash modes and 16 megabytes of internal memory.

A screen that size (7.32cm for those more used to metric) is bound to get attention and make this a popular model for Sanyo. It also features PictBridge compatability and MPEG4 video.

The Sanyo Xacti E6 should hit stores in Europe in September 2005.

Get the latest price on the Sanyo VPC-E6 Xacti

CNET reviews the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E6 and gives it a rating of 5.2 out of 10. They write - 'Sanyo, which produces many of the snapshot digital cameras you see marketed under other brand names, is stepping up its efforts to gain some brand recognition of its own. Given that the company's name is hardly synonymous with high quality, we started off with low expectations for the company's Xacti VPC-E6, a 6-megapixel, 3X-zoom ultracompact. We were pleasantly surprised to find it a decent--albeit a little pricey--snapshot camera with an eye-catching 3-inch LCD, a graphical user interface, and reasonable image quality. Only the performance disappointed.'

PC Mag reviews the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E6U and gives it a rating of 2.5 out of 5. They write - 'The Sanyo Xacti VPC-E6U ($399.99 list) has fairly standard image-capture elements for an ultracompact: A 6-megapixel sensor and a 3X optical zoom with a 6.3mm-to-18.9mm range (a 35mm equivalent of 38mm to 114mm) and corresponding maximum f-stops of f/3.3 to f/4.0. It does have a sleek exterior and sweet 3-inch LCD screen, but here's the feature that distinguishes the camera from all others we've seen to date: It talks. The pleasant female voice, along with other odd features, gives it a quirky vibe. Unfortunately, this shooter just doesn't perform as well as its main rivals, the Kodak EasyShare-One and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-N1.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Sanyo Xacti E6 Digital Camera where they recommend - 'The new Xacti E6 is a fine camera, offering enhanced user's convenience for its money. It features good image quality, a strong friendly operation and it is ease to carry around with you thanks to the compact size. The innovative features of the Sanyo Xacti E6 are mainly responsible for taking the camera on a higher level than its competitors. Users can fully enjoy the large sized monitor. And if Sanyo decides to apply the large monitor and the Touch sensor on an advanced digital camera, taking into account the demanding photographer, a strong concept can be set down; one that can easily compete with high quality digital cameras. The Sanyo E6 isn't perfect but clearly and undoubtedly we are dealing with a very strong concept here. The camera is perfectly suitable for the snapshot photographer and this target group will effortlessly be convinced by the Sanyo Xacti E6 digital camera. '

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Aug 16: Fujifilm Finepix F10 Zoom Wins European Pocket Camera of the Year

Fujifilm announced today that it has been awarded a coveted EISA* Award for its critically acclaimed Fujifilm FinePix F10 Zoom camera. This latest addition to the Fujifilm digital camera range has been named European Pocket Camera of the Year 2005-2006.

The FinePix F10 Zoom incorporates some of Fujifilm’s most progressive technology developments of recent months, which have won it wide acclaim amongst professional testers, the media and consumers.

The camera can produce incredibly sharp images due to its refined Super CCD sensor and Real Photo Processor. It boasts an unprecedented sensitivity range from ISO 80 to ISO 1600, all achievable at full resolution. This means that clear images are captured even in low light situations, whilst minimising camera shake and subject blur.

Furthermore, the Real Photo Processor enables users to photograph without flash, thereby ensuring more natural-looking results, and extending the already considerable battery life. Capable of producing 500 shots from a single charge, the FinePix F10 Zoom has also been dubbed the ‘24-hour camera’.

EISA commended the FinePix F10 Zoom as follows, “The FinePix F10 is a consummate camera that impresses from the first sight of its elegant but sturdy exterior. Its beauty is not only skin deep, however, since its 6 megapixel image sensor captures images with excellent resolution and colour saturation. Reviewing pictures is a dream on the sharp, bright 2.5 inch LCD screen, and the very powerful battery has enough power for several hundred shots. Most impressive of all, however, is the camera’s performance at high ISO ratings. Noise is low enough at ISO 800 and 1600 to safely photograph in dim light conditions without using the flash.”

Adrian Clarke, Director of Photo Products, commented, “It’s a great honour to receive an award from EISA. The FinePix F10 Zoom represents breakthrough technology for us and the quality of images it produces in all lighting levels and conditions speak for themselves. Following the success of the FinePix F10 Zoom, we’ll be introducing more cameras in the FinePix series equipped with Real Photo Technology later this year.”

* EISA (www.eisa-awards-org) is the largest organisation for multimedia publishers in Europe, with a membership of 50 audio, video and photo magazines drawn from 20 European countries. The organisation has been the voice of Europe’s multimedia industry for more than 23 years. The awards are split into a number of categories and judging panels including Photo, Video, Audio, Home Theatre and Mobile Electronics.

Source: Fujifilm News Release

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Aug 15: Nikon D50 Review - PhotographyBLOG

PhotographyBLOG reviews the Nikon D50 and writes - 'The Nikon D50 is an entry-level digital SLR camera with a professional-level feature set. Nikon have resisted the temptation to dumb down their budget camera by removing lots of important features, so much so that the D50 isn't all that different to the more expensive D70s. If you want a D70s but can't quite afford one, buy the D50 instead - it delivers 90% of the performance at a lower cost. Having said that, the D50 obviously cuts some corners in order to keep the overall price down. The all-plastic body and 18-55mm kit lens don't initially inspire much confidence, although they are fine in actual use, and there are a number of missing features that more experienced photographers will regret not having, such as depth of field preview and mirror lockup.'

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Aug 15: Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 is a worthy competitor in the 5-megapixel ultra-compact and durable class. It should make a good choice for anyone who wants a simple point-n-shoot, with good image quality, speedy performance and can be carried in any size pocket or purse. Its Large/Fine images have plenty of resolution to create high-quality 8x10-inch or larger prints. With a street price of around $300 it offers a good value.'

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Aug 15: How to Protect Your Digital Camera from Extreme Heat, Cold Weather and Rain

About.com has a post on How to Protect Your Digital Camera from Extreme Heat, Cold Weather and Rain - overall it's pretty much a common sense topic but it's worth keeping in mind because digital cameras do tend to freeze up (quite literally) in both extreme heat and cold situations. In fact extreme temperatures can be one argument for completely manual film cameras (although they have their own issues in extreme heat also). Here's a bit of what about.com has to say on the topic:

'When its gets cold out, one thing you can do for your camera is try to keep it as warm as possible. Again, putting it under your jacket works well using, your body heat. Keeping your camera as warm as possible will hopefully prevent condensation from occurring.

If condensation does happen, open the battery and memory compartments, empty them and keep the compartments open until they dry out. Don’t take your camera back outside if there is condensation in/on it. It is possible it will freeze.'

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Aug 15: Olympus C-7070 Wide Zoom Wins European Compact Camera of the Year

Olympus UK Press Release

Olympus is delighted to announce that they have been successful once again in the European Imaging & Sound Association (EISA) Awards. Consolidating the success of the C-8080 Wide Zoom last year, which was named “Digital Camera of the Year”, the Olympus C-7070 Wide Zoom has been crowned “European Compact Camera of the Year 2005/6” by the judging panel.

With a judging panel drawn from fifty leading audio, mobile electronics, video and photography press in twenty European countries, EISA are renowned for their independence and good judgement.

Explaining their reasons behind the decision the jury said; “The Olympus C-7070 Wide Zoom packages an optimal blend of impressive features, good image quality and easy handling. With a 7 megapixel CCD and zoom lens corresponding to 27-110 mm in the 35mm format, this camera is a serious snapper. It’s also very easy to take great pictures: there is a flip-up, rotating 1.8” monitor, an extremely powerful battery and a hot-shoe with TTL-contacts that accommodates an optional external Olympus FL-flash. Best of all, this flexible performer retails at a very reasonable price.“

The C-7070 Wide Zoom is available now at an estimated street price of £495 inc VAT

Michael Handa, Executive Managing Director, Olympus Imaging Europe said of the award: ”This EISA award confirms the quality of the C-7070 Wide Zoom. The award is recognised by consumers as a mark of quality and will provide dealers with a powerful sales argument.“

The Olympus C-7070 – main features:

• 7.1 million pixels
• 4x optical zoom (equiv. 27–110mm) F2.8-4.8 with eight elements in seven groups incl. two aspherical elements and one ED element
• Dual 143-point AF system with Predictive AF
• Multi-angle 4.5cm/1.8” Sunshine LCD monitor with 134,000 pixels
• Programme, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Full Manual modes
• Hot shoe
• Robust magnesium-alloy body with ergonomic design
• Produces JPEG, TIFF and RAW file data
• Movie recording function with sound
• Saves to xD-Picture Card, CompactFlash Type I & II
• TruePic TURBO image processor and PictBridge compatibility
• High speed sequence shooting: 10 frames at 1.4 fps in HQ mode
• Shipped with Olympus Master 1.1 software, 32MB xD-Picture Card, rechargeable BLM-1 lithium ion battery, and charger.

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Aug 15: Casio EXILIM EX-S500 Review - Digital Camera Review

Digital Camera Review reviews the Casio EXILIM EX-S500 and writes - 'The Casio Exilim EX-S500 is an attractive, well-built camera. While the ultra-compact size is nice for some, for others it can easily slip out of your hand. With three colors to choose from, it's obvious that a large point of difference for this camera is its looks. The image quality is good with some minor issues at times (softness, slightly less color saturation) but I think that most users of this camera will not notice. The LCD is nice and sharp and makes for excellent viewing and framing of images.'

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Aug 15: How to Recover Lost Images from a Memory Card

PC Magazine has written a useful tip on Recovering Images from Memory Cards that looks at why Windows can't help, recovery tools and what not to do when you lose images on your card:

'You slide the flash memory card from your camera into the card reader on your computer, but your photos can't be found. Neither Microsoft Windows, nor your image-editing software, nor your file undelete utility can detect them. But don't panic: Most lost images can be recovered using common sense and specialized recovery tools....'

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Aug 15: Photo Management Tools Reviewed

PC Magazine has reviewed four photo management tools that might help you keep your digital images in order:

• Photofiddle.com - 'The Photofiddle.com online service takes your digital photos and turns them into works of art. Choose output that mimics an oil painting, pop art, a high-end photo collage, and lots more.' - Rated at 4 stars.
• ViewPoint Photos - 'Since it's a browser-based utility, ViewPoint Photos may not suit everyone's style. But, like any free download, it's worth a try.' - Rated at 2.5 stars
• PhotoShow Deluxe - 'Extremely powerful yet wonderfully easy to use.' - Rated at 3 stars.
• OurPictures 2.0 Deluxe - 'One of our favorite photo sharers. OurPictures now adds basic photo-editing and photo management to the mix, though you may want to look elsewhere if you're dealing with a large volume of photos.' - Rated at 3.5 stars.

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Aug 14: Digital Cameras Remain Primary Picture Taking Device over CameraPhones

CEA Research Finds Digital Cameras Remain Primary Picture Taking Device

Survey Underscores Need for Industry Involvement in Consumer Archiving Awareness

Arlington, Virginia 8/12/2005 - Even as they increase in popularity, camera phones are not likely to replace digital cameras and camcorders as consumers’ primary picture taking device, according to a study recently released by the Consumer Electronics Association(r) (CEA), which found that some 91 percent of digital camera owners consider their digital camera to be their main photography device. CEA’s “Digital Imaging Study: Sharing and Storing Pictures and Video,” also revealed that consumers are unaware of the need to archive their digital photos and video - an issue of increasing importance as the penetration rate for digital cameras nears 50 percent with those camera owners snapping billions of pictures each year.

Steve Koenig, senior manager of industry analysis at CEA, said, “Consumers are fortunate that today’s digital imaging product shelf is festooned with convergence photography devices in addition to the still camera - still cameras that capture full-motion video, digital camcorders that take still pictures, camera phones, PDAs and wireless phones with image/video capture capabilities; the list goes on. Many consumers own several photo-capture devices, but our research shows the digital camera remains consumers’ primary picture taking device and we expect that to continue. Camera phones and other convergence devices will likely experience improved resolution capabilities, but the vast majority of consumers will turn to a digital still camera when their primary purpose is picture taking.”

Consumers report they expect to share photos and video electronically from their digital camera or camcorder, through computers, e-mail and wireless phones. About two-thirds print their photos and half of them burn images onto a CD to share with others. A small but significant number of consumers share their digital photos by printing.

“Consumers tell us electronic sharing of digital imaging content is the way of the future,” Koenig continued. “To make this happen, consumers really need more Internet bandwidth for e-mail, more processing power for computers, greater media storage capacity and more robust wireless phone data networks.”

Koenig added that the survey’s red flag is the lack of knowledge or practice of archiving digital imaging content. According to the more than 1,100 U. S. adults surveyed by CEA, consumers are unaware of the need to back-up digital photos and video. Only 48 percent said they back-up all or most of their images, while the same percentage of video is not backed up at all. Less than half of the consumers are even concerned about losing their imaging content.

“Many industry groups are addressing the need for consumer awareness and education about archiving digital images, including CEA through the Digital Imaging Special Interest Group (SIG),” Koenig concluded. “This survey demonstrates the industry must continue to beat the drum and encourage content archiving to help consumers avoid disaster.”

“The Digital Imaging Study: Sharing and Storing Pictures and Video” was administered online to 1,156 U.S. adults in May and was designed and formulated by CEA Market Research, the most comprehensive source of sales data, forecasts, consumer research, international research and historical trends for the consumer electronics industry. The complete study is available free to CEA member companies. Non-members may purchase the study at http://www.CE.org/CeaStore.

Source: Consumer Electronics Association Press Release

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Aug 14: Digiscoping

River Valley Newspapers has a feature article on Digiscoping - or combining a digital camera with a high powered spotting scope to get right up close for photographing wildlife

'Trying to photograph wildlife can be difficult, since the subject usually is, well, wild.

It doesn't tend to want to stick around long enough to get close enough for a decent shot. The resulting photo often is a small, fuzzy figure — vaguely recognizable as a animal of some sort — almost lost in an expanse of water or foliage.

For those who want to bring that bird, beast or buzzing insect closer without having to creep up like a hunting cat, digiscoping might be the answer.

Digiscoping combines a digital camera with a high-powered spotting scope. When done right, it can create wildlife photos of stunning clarity and detail, almost as if the photographer was sitting in the swamp or on the branch alongside the subject rather than yards away....'

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Aug 14: Fujifilm Finepix Z1 Review - Megapixel.net

Megapixel reviews the Fujifilm Finepix Z1 and writes - 'While we could have wished the FinePix Z1’s monitor to have a even higher resolution and an even better image, the Z1 is nevertheless an attractive camera: its finishing is flawless and its few external controls clearly designed for efficiency and ease of use. The Z1 starts up quickly — it is ready to shoot in under a second — and reacts instantly to its controls, including the shutter release.'

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Aug 13: Casio Exilim EX-P505 Review - Megapixel

Megapixel reviews the Casio Exilim EX-P505 and writes - 'So, on one hand the Casio EX-P505's small but odd-shaped body may not be ideal for everyone. However, on the other hand, the P505 offers a number of valuable features: a 5-megapixel resolution, a 5X optical zoom, an excellent movie mode limited only by the card capacity and is able to capture stereophonic sound while leaving the optical zoom functional, an excellent autonomy thanks to its lithium battery, an array of shooting modes, and even a built-in neutral density filter. All of which means that interested parties may be well-advised to not only see the camera in a store, but touch and handle it.'

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Aug 13: Camera Phones to Replace Digital Cameras?

In response to the recent articles that Camera Phones to Steal Low-End Digital Camera Market within Two Years Lets Go Digital has today posted a piece on Why Camera Phones WON'T replace digital cameras. They write:

'Even as they increase in popularity, camera phones are not likely to replace digital cameras and camcorders as consumers' primary picture taking device, according to a study recently released by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), which found that some 91 percent of digital camera owners consider their digital camera to be their main photography device. CEA's “Digital Imaging Study: Sharing and Storing Pictures and Video,” also revealed that consumers are unaware of the need to archive their digital photos and video - an issue of increasing importance as the penetration rate for digital cameras nears 50 percent with those camera owners snapping billions of pictures each year. '

Whilst I agree that camera phones are unlikely to take too much ground off high end cameras (and even much of the middle ground) I believe that they will and already are having an impact upon the lower end of things. My recent purchase of a 2.0 megapixel camera phone has already impacted the amount of photos I take on my other cameras. Whilst I won't be using it for my more serious photography its definitely become a part of my daily life.

With the release of higher megapixel phones (expect the numbers to increase significantly) in the next 12 months I think we'll see more and more people leaving their point and shoot digital cameras at home.

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Aug 12: FujiFilm FinePix F10 Review - Designtechnica Reviews

Design Technica reviews the FujiFilm FinePix F10 and writes - 'The new 6.3-megapixel FujiFilm FinePix F10 ($399 MSRP) is a rather unassuming digital camera with a silvery metal finish and plain vanilla styling. Yet looks are very deceiving; this is one of the best performing cameras on the market. The camera has superb low-light shooting capability, film camera-like response, easy-to-operate controls and menus. And, of course, great photo quality. In effect, this is everything a point-and-shoot digicam should be in 2005. For slightly more than 300 bucks, this camera should be high on the list for those who want effortless picture taking. That said, the FinePix F10 is not God’s Gift to Photography; there are some annoying flaws we’re happy to point out in the hope that Fuji engineers will take the comments as constructive criticism.'

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Aug 12: Kodak EasyShare V550 Review at Digital Camera Review

Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Kodak EasyShare V550 Digital Camera and writes - 'The V550's target audience will love this camera. It's an excellent alternative to Canon's nifty little SD400, a good choice for beginning photographers looking for a camera that can grow with them as their image making skills evolve, and a practical selection for family shutterbugs, space/weight conscious travelers, and extreme sports aficionados who value style, compact size, super fast operation, and point & shoot ease of use. More advanced photographers will appreciate the V550's versatility and amazingly well thought out user interface.'

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Aug 12: Fuji Finepix Z1 Review - Cameras.co.uk

Cameras.co.uk has a review of the Fuji Finepix Z1 and writes - 'The Fuji Finepix Z1 is certainly up there amongst the best ultra compact digital cameras that I have tested. The picture quality is very pleasing and I am a big fan of the design. It is slightly more expensive than its rivals, but I would be prepared to pay the extra few pounds. One area I would like to see improved is the menu system. '

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Aug 12: Canon PowerShot SD400 Review from Digital Photography Review

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.'

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Aug 11: Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W7 Review - Designtechnica Reviews

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.'

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Aug 11: Sanyo Xacti VPC-C5 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Sanyo Xacti VPC-C5 and 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.'

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Aug 11: Fujifilm FinePix A350 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Fujifilm FinePix A350 and writes - 'I found the overall image quality was good when using the 5M Fine mode. Most of our sample images were sharp with good color balance. The exposure system also did well and I especially liked how it captured sky detail. Noise levels were moderate in high/low contrast areas, but we didn't see much purple fringing (aka Chromatic Aberration) around highlights. However, I was very disappointed with its autofocus system. It failed more often then not in dim lighting and every time the camera tries to lock focus, the LCD freezes up, making it useless if following a moving subject. But thanks to its optical viewfinder, you should have no problems capturing images of the kids running through the house or yard. When a still picture won't capture the moment, you can opt to use its movie mode. Sound is recorded and the movie frames are captured at a relatively low 10fps in 320x240 (QVGA) resolution. Our sample movies were average with noticeable amounts of compression noise.'

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Aug 11: Kodak EasyShare V550 Review - Megapixel

Megapixel reviews the Kodak EasyShare V550 and writes - 'Probably the single biggest regret we have about the V550 is that there is absolutely no user control over the compression applied to the images. With the V550, Kodak, just as a few other manufacturers have, follows the regrettable trend of tying image size to compression permanently. At the 5-megapixel image size, the highest image quality available with the V550, this compression can vary, depending on the subject, from a ratio of 9:1 for most subjects, to on occasion a compression as strong as 25:1. And with some subjects, the compression can lead to a loss of sharpness, noticeable when the image is looked at 100% scale on a monitor.

Generally the V550 turns out bright and vibrant images, and is clearly designed to fit the needs of users that want a simple to operate, no-fuss camera. Its Scene programs are quite effective when used to capture their intended subjects, and the Auto shooting mode, while simple to use, offers some control to the user.'

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Aug 11: Olympus C-5500 Sport Zoom Review - CNET Reviews

NET Reviews the Olympus C-5500 Sport Zoom and writes - 'The Olympus C-5500 Sport Zoom is, above all, a good compact camera for the money. Its 5-megapixel resolution, 5X optical zoom, solid build, impressive array of features, and very good image quality add up to a strong all-purpose option for the advanced snapshot photographer. That said, some of its features are compromised; for example, you can't shoot in burst mode at the highest-quality JPEG setting. That drawback, in addition to some inconsistent shutter lag and focus-time performance, makes this camera less suited for shooting action than the Sport Zoom moniker might lead you to believe.'

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Aug 11: Japan's Digital Camera Shipments Lower than Expected

'Digital camera shipments by Japanese manufacturers will probably rise 8.4 percent this year, compared with a previous estimate of 21 percent, the Camera & Imaging Products Association said.

Worldwide shipments by Canon Inc., Sony Corp., Olympus Corp. and other companies will probably total 64.8 million units this year, the Tokyo-based industry group said in a press release yesterday.

Global shipments by Japanese companies totaled 27.9 million units during the six months that ended June 30, up 5.5 percent on the year. At this rate, annual shipments aren't likely to meet the January forecast of 72.2 million units, the association said.

Sales aren't rising as much as the association had expected in part because about half the Japanese households already have digital cameras, the report said.'

Read more at Japan's Digital Camera Shipments May Miss Forecast

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Aug 11: Canon PowerShot A520 Review - Lets Go Digital

Lets Go Digital reviews the Canon PowerShot A520 digital camera and writes - 'The Canon Powershot A520 is absolutely a recommendable digital camera. It offers value for its money, has a few minor points that need improving, but in general it delivers an excellent result. The compact size offers many possibilities, turning itself into a versatile camera, and actually exceeding its own class. The possibilities that the A520 offers ensure keeping the camera in sight and in use. The Canon A520 is a worthy successor to the old Canon A-series digital cameras!'

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Aug 10: Killer Features vs. Pseudo Features on Digital Cameras Gizmodo

Gizmodo has a guest commentary on Killer Features vs. Pseudo Features on digital cameras which is an interesting read:

'Every camera manufacturer advertises a list of features as long as your arm. Most of these are pseudo features. Casio, for instance, has a special mode that allows you to take two portraits together, each taking up half of the frame. Why you would want to do this, nobody knows. That is not a feature. It is a pseudo feature.

The killer feature on the Panasonic FX7 is image stabilization. Basically, it compensates for the slight shake of the photographer’s hand. In general, that will make your pictures noticeably sharper—all of them. It’ll also let you take pictures without a flash with a quarter the light that other cameras need. This is a big, big deal. And it really works.'

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Aug 9: Casio EX-P505 Review - Trusted Reviews

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Casio EX-P505 and writes - 'A little on the expensive side for a 5MP camera, but the impressive stills performance, easily accessible creative features and some outstanding and unique movie modes – including stereo sound - make the Exilim EX-P505 a unique and appealing model for the more advanced user. It manages to fit in more features than most cameras twice its size'

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Aug 9: Dixons to stop selling 35mm cameras because of Digital Cameras

'High Street retailer Dixons, which started by selling 35mm cameras, is to stop stocking the items because of the popularity of digital cameras.
The company has said it will not be stocking any more after the current stock of the film cameras runs out.

Marketing director Bryan Magrath said the decision was a “sentimental event”.

“35mm cameras were the first products we ever sold and film processing has been a part of our lives for several decades,” he added.'

Read more at Dixons to end 35mm camera sales

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Aug 9: Adobe CS2 Photoshop Review - Imaging Resource

Imaging Resource reviews Adobe Photoshop CS2 and recommends - 'This is a surprisingly rich release for such a venerable application. It makes some complicated tasks easy to do well while blazing new trails for future development. Best of all, perhaps, it feels like Photoshop. You can integrate the new tools at your own pace without suffering a paradigm shift. But why shift the Photoshop paradigm? When you've got it, flaunt it.'

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Aug 9: Konica Minolta DiMage Z5 Review - PC Magazine

PC Magazine reviews the Konica Minolta DiMage Z5 and gives it 3.5 stars. They comment - 'On our tests, the simulated daylight image showed very little noise, excellent color matching, and very good color saturation. The image was crisp and sharp, with deep blacks, and we found very little fringing or noticeable aberrations. The shot was a bit underexposed, but overall the exposure was balanced, so it would probably be easy to correct in an editing program.'

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Aug 9: Casio Exilim EX-S500 - DCRP Review

Digital Camera Resource Page reviews the Casio Exilim EX-S500 and recommends - 'The Casio Exilim EX-S500 is an ultra-thin camera that has a lot going for it, but I was ultimately let down by its poor image quality. The S500 is an ultra-compact camera that comes in your choice of three colors. It's design is stunning and the orange body that I tested garners even more attention. The S500 features a 2.2“ LCD that could use some more pixels. Thankfully the screen is visible in low light situations. There is no optical viewfinder on the S500.

The S500 has plenty of features, though it's lacking some useful manual controls. It has tons of Best Shot (scene) modes, and if you need more you can create your own. The only manual controls on the camera are for white balance and focus -- which are both handy -- though shutter speed would've been nice too. The camera's anti-shake system works, but not as well as a camera with ”real“ image stabilization....'

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Aug 9: Olympus Stylus Digital 800 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Olympus Stylus Digital 800 and writes - 'I was pleased with the image quality of the 8-megapixel SHQ mode. Outdoors it produced sharp images that showed good overall exposure and color balance. The Auto white balance setting was very accurate, even when shooting in very mixed lighting conditions. You can also manually choose one of six white balance presets. Our ISO 64 to 400 images showed average amounts of noise, but you can only see this when viewing an image at 100% and it's very unlikely that you will see it in your prints. When using ISO 800, 1600, or 2500 (Blur reduction Mode only) the image size is reduced to SQ1 (approx. 4-megapixels.) Noise levels do increase, but the usefulness of the higher ISO speeds and the ability to capture handheld images at slower than normal shutter speeds, outweighs the image quality issues by far. Like most Olympus models, The Stylus 800 excels at portrait photography. Our indoor and outdoor portraits were sharp and skin tones were very natural. Although the autofocus system does not feature an AF-assist lamp, we found it worked quite well in low-ambient lighting, and even though it sometimes would not show a lock, the image came out sharp and in focus. Macro mode also produced pleasing results. You can focus on a subject 8 inches away with Macro mode or use the Super Macro mode and get as close as 1.2 inches. The camera did an excellent job of controlling the flash when using either of these modes, “throttling down” so the subject wasn't overexposed.'

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Aug 9: Canon PowerShot S2 IS Review -Designtechnica Reviews

Design Technica reviwes the Canon PowerShot S2 IS and writes - 'Although I liked the final stills and videos I took with this speedy, responsive camera, Canon is asking way too much from consumers to get up to speed. Granted, an experienced shutterbug will have less difficulty wading through the extremely dense owner's manual. And if you plan to simply shoot in Auto or with the various scene modes, the camera will do the trick. Yet the deal breaker for me is the manual flash. Imagine taking a critical shot, pressing the shutter then realizing you have to open the flash. In that critical moment, the memory could be gone. Toss in the fact that you don't get rechargeable batteries and a charger, and this mega zoom camera moves near the bottom of the list of available options.'

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Aug 9: Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro Review at Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro and writes - 'The FinePix S3 really does offer expanded dynamic range, with beautiful color and excellent noise control. Maybe we should stop right there, because that’s the news. That’s what the competition has to try to match.

The question is whether or not to buy one. Sure, lots of people need more dynamic range and good portrait color, but do they need it for $2500? Do they need it at one frame per second? Do they need it with autofocus that wasn’t top-of-the-line even three years ago?

Actually, yes. The camera will serve a sizable market. Wedding and portrait photographers need to take flattering pictures with rich color even when they can’t control the lighting. This is a very large sect of commercial photographers, compared to other segments of the photographic profession, and they can put up with many of the limitations of the S3. Fuji is wise to go after them. '

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Aug 9: Epson Perfection 4490 Photo Scanner

Epson Perfection 4490 Press Release

Epson introduces the Perfection 4490 Photo, combining outstanding quality with ease of use for the ultimate home scanner

The Epson Perfection 4490 Photo incorporates Digital ICE Technology, to ensure that even scratched films can be restored to their former glory.

Gone are the days when complicated software was needed to remove scratches, and dust on film. Launching at £199 the Epson Perfection 4490 is the only scanner in its class to feature Digital ICE technology, guaranteed to restore old or damaged film easily and efficiently. With a resolution of 4800 x 9600 dpi, the Epson Perfection 4490 Photo also ensures that the scan results are as finely detailed as the original.

The Epson Perfection 4490 Photo will scan and save all of your 35mm and medium format film as photographic images - avoiding the risk of damaging or losing these precious memories. The integrated Transparency Unit (TPU) can support up to twelve 35mm frames, four 35mm slides or one medium format film up to 6 x 12cm. All these formats can be scanned and saved with ease. The Perfection 4490 Photo will automatically detect whether the film is positive or negative, colour or black and white. The Preview mode even allows you to see the image exactly as it would appear in a photograph.

Four feature buttons on the front of the scanner allow you to scan the image as a PDF, attach it in an email or copy it simply by pressing one button. Epson scan software even has the ability to automatically orientate your photographs or documents, even if it is not placed on the panel squarely, taking the guesswork out of the scanning process.

An Automatic Document Feeder is available as an option. The feeder fits neatly on top of the scanner, and allows you to scan up to 30 A4 sheets. Using this negates the need to manually place the documents on the scanner bed one at a time.

For enhancement of images before and after scanning, the Epson Perfection 4490 Photo offers a feature packed software bundle that includes Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0, ABBYY FineReader Sprint 6 and Epson Creativity Suite software. And with a new black and silver casing, it is a stylish addition to any home or office.

Richard Bayliss, Consumer Sales and Marketing Manager, said: “The Digital ICE technology integrated in the Epson Perfection 4490 Photo not only gives you the high performance capabilities of a 4800dpi medium format flatbed scanner but also the capacity to restore scratched and damaged film.”

Epson Perfection 4490 Photo key feature summary:
· Automatically remove dust and scratches on film using Digital ICE Technology
· Built-in transparency unit (TPU) for positive and negative scanning of 35mm film, slides and medium format films (up to 6 x 12cm)
· One touch scanning for PDF, emails and copies
· 4800 x 9600dpi for sharper images
· Includes Epson Creativity Suite, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0 and ABBYY FineReader Sprint 6, Version 5 for Mac
· High speed USB 2.0 interface
· Optional Automatic Document Feeder for scanning multiple documents.
· RRP £199 inc VAT

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Aug 7: Casio Exilim EX-Z750 Pro Review - Photography & Digital Camera Forums

Photography & Digital Camera Forums has reviewed the Casio Exilim EX-Z750 Pro and writes - 'I really enjoyed using the Casio Exilim EX-Z750. I've even thought about buying one for myself. It has a great list of features, including a lot of manual controls as well as great point-and-shoot functionality. But what really sets this camera apart for me is the combination of speed and size. I love that I can drop it in my pocket and take it everywhere. And I am very, very impressed with the quick startup and minimal shutter-lag. Image quality may not be the best. But I'm willing to trade a little image quality for portability and functionality. In the end, it's a point-and-shoot that doesn't feel like an unreasonable compromise to this SLR user. If I make the decision to leave my digital SLR at home and take the Casio in my pocket, I don't worry that I've made a big mistake. Because I know the EX-Z750 delivers.'

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Aug 7: Nikon Coolpix S1 Review - Hardware Secrets

Hardware secrets reviews the Nikon Coolpix S1 digital camera and writes - 'Picture-taking is where the Coolpix S1 truly shines. Following the Coolpix tradition, the photos are crisp and the colors, vivid. Pictures tend to get blurred very easily if the flash is out – there’s not much of a body in an ultra-compact digital camera to get a firm grip on. The flash has a working range of 0.3 - 2.5 m at wide-angle and 0.3 - 1.4 m at telephoto. As expected in a camera this size, no external flash can be attached to it. To avoid blurriness and over flashing we recommend using the Slow Synch Flash – it captures a good deal of background and doesn’t turn the people portrayed into ghosts of light. The camera is fully automated: the only manual control being for white balance.'

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Aug 5: Pentax Optio S55 Review - Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info reviews the Pentax Optio S55 and writes - 'Many fundamental aspects of the Optio S55 – its size, 5 megapixel CCD, 3x optical zoom lens, 115,000-pixel LCD, $250-or-so street price – are decidedly middle-of-the-road. There are loads of cameras with those specs, because many, many snapshooters will get the results they want with cameras like that. The camera is easy to use in automatic mode and built well enough to survive rough handling – if you forget about it in the bottom of your backpack for a while, it will probably emerge okay. The on-screen help features should be useful to casual users as well. Unfortunately, the S55 also contains some glaring flaws that will frustrate even the most complacent snapshooter. Pentax heavily markets the camera’s large LCD screen, omitting the fact that its quality is extremely substandard, making it difficult to accurately perceive the frame and review images. There is also no manual mode included, forcing those beginner users looking to grow into the medium to look elsewhere or buy multiple cameras. Furthermore, the S55 eats through batteries faster than any other camera that we have reviewed, and for those who like the freedom of AAs, the seemingly affordable point-and-shoot will soon become a constant cash-consumer. Therefore, those users looking to learn more about photography should look at other cameras that offer more manual control, but for the snapshooter on a tight budget, with a slight decrease in price (below $200), the S55 would be a reasonable choice. '

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Aug 5: Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 Review - DCRP

DCRP reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 and writes - 'The X60's photo quality was a mixed bag. Most of the time it was good, but some others times there was a noticeable color cast, which is not something I see very often. There was always blurring in the corners and around the edges of photos, which is something that comes along with the folding lens design used by the X60. Purple fringing and noise levels were okay, though. The camera's movie mode was disappointing compared to the competition. A few years ago a 320 x 240 / 30 fps movie mode would be okay, but now most cameras offer VGA movie recording so the X60 isn't so hot anymore.'

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Aug 5: Casio EX-S500 Review - Ken Rockwell

Ken Rockwell reviews the Casio EX-S500 and writes - 'For a tiny camera giving full size results the EX-S500 is the winner today for most normal people. My only reservation for normal people is the long time the flash takes to charge, which could annoy you and your friends if you take flash photos indoors often.

If you're a serious, critical photographer then get the EX-Z750 instead. It's a quarter of an inch thicker, 3/4 of an ounce heavier and sells for about the same price. Poor baby: it's bigger but still so small I forget when I have it in my pocket. It has better optics and it's easier to use if you're one of us who actually understands all the features you can get to with the extra buttons. Non-photographers would prefer the simpler and smaller EX-S500.'

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Aug 4: Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z10

The Casio Exilim EX-Z10 is a a 5.0 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom (with anti shake technology), 2.0 inch LCD in a black casing. It shoots movies at 30 frames per second a VGA quality.

We should start seeing the Casio Exilim EX-Z10 in shops in October of 2005.

Casio News Release for 3 models including the Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z10:
CASIO ELECTRONICS CO. LTD., in conjunction with its parent company CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. announced the release of the latest additions to its EXILIM ZOOM line up with the EX-Z10, EX-Z110, and EX-Z120 digital cameras. Designed to be user-friendly, fun, and convenient, as well as featuring CASIO's renowned EXILIM Engine with Anti Shake DSP, these offerings are intended to introduce the ease and enjoyment of high quality digital photography and world-class performance to anyone, anywhere.

The EXILIM digital camera series represents the culmination of CASIO's core technologies, combining cutting-edge miniaturization and digital expertise with state-of-the-art photographic capability. As with all digital cameras in the EXILIM series, the new EXILIM ZOOM models feature CASIO's EXILIM Engine, an image processing module that delivers high quality images, quick operation, and low power consumption, all of which have made EXILIM the camera of choice for many users the world over.

These latest models feature the Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects, while the Auto Macro and Quick Shutter functions ensure that photos are properly focused. High Sensitivity Mode produces clear shots with a bright background without the flash, even when lighting is dim. The EX-Z120 features 7.2 megapixel resolution and 32 scene BESTSHOT function located on a convenient mode dial. The EX-Z110 features 6.0 megapixels and the EX-Z10 features 5.0 megapixels, both with practical 28 scene BESTSHOT.

For enhanced user-friendliness, the mode dial and easy mode menu use simple icon images that make picture taking a snap for beginner digital camera users. The EXILIM's emblematic quick start-up is further made convenient with easily accessible DIRECT ON buttons that enable fast start-up for quick shots and photo viewing. All three new models run on AA batteries and have an AV out port allowing quick and convenient image viewing on televisions. Each camera has a 2.0-inch TFT color LCD display as well as a standard optical viewfinder, a 3x optical zoom, and VGA (640x480 pixels) size video recording capabilities. Of course, EXILIM standard features, such as short release time lag, allow pictures to be taken almost instantaneously, so you never miss the important moments. For those who want to enjoy more ambitious photography, these cameras support manual settings such as adjustable shutter speed and aperture for creative photo experiments, satisfying the needs of aspiring minds.

The EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z10, EX-Z110, and EX-Z120 cameras are designed to bring the fun and convenience of digital photography to people everywhere with user-friendly features that are true to CASIO's tradition of cutting-edge technology, intelligent functionality, and high-quality photography.

CASIO EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z10, EX-Z110 & EX-Z120 FEATURES

High Performance, Advanced Capabilities
• The EX-Z120 has a 7.2 megapixel CCD (EX-Z110: 6.0 megapixel CCD; EX-Z10: 5.0 megapixel CCD) and a slim 3x optical zoom
• High quality images, high speed, and long lasting battery in a miniaturized package with EXILIM Engine image processing module
• The latest version of the EXILIM Engine features Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects
• Large 2.0 inch digital interface TFT LCD display
• The EX-Z120 can take 170 still shots (EX-Z110: 180 shots; EX-Z10: 270 shots) on one battery charge according to CIPA standards 1
• Stylish, compact and high grade body fits well in the hand
• The zoom lever and shutter are combined into one
*1 Based on Alkaline (LR6 Matsushita Battery Industrial Co., Ltd.)

Easy to Operate User-friendly Mode
• Mode dial facilitates easy switching between still image mode, playback mode, etc.
• For first-time users who find it difficult to navigate complicated settings, easy mode displays selected menu items such as image size and flash on/off in a large, easy to understand format
• Camera powered by AA alkaline, nickel-cadmium, or lithium batteries available at most stores

Enhanced Quick Responsiveness
• Once powered on, the camera is ready to take pictures in approximately 1.3 seconds (EX-Z10/EX-Z110: approximately 1.5 seconds) 2
• After the shutter is fired, the picture is taken almost instantaneously with an approximately 0.007 seconds release time lag (EX-Z110 has 0.004 second lag) 3
• High-speed picture playback of approximately 0.1 seconds interval
• Continuous shutter function enables photos to be taken in approximately 0.9 seconds 4 intervals, limited to available space on memory card
• The “DIRECT ON” button function allows quick startup in both shooting and playback modes
*2 using internal memory, with internal flash turned off
*3 with internal flash turned off
*4 depending on the type of memory card used

Convenient and Multivariate Functions
• Simple selection from 32 different BESTSHOT scenes (EX-Z10/EX-Z110: 28 BESTSHOT scenes) 5 provides beautiful still pictures
• Manual setting allows adjustment of camera aperture, shutter speed, exposure, etc. for custom shots
• The “Quick Shutter” function reduces mistakes by facilitating simple and easy high-speed focusing
• The “Auto Macro” mode allows for automatic switching between macro mode and auto focus mode
• The “Icon Help” function provides pop-up icon guidance when adjusting camera settings
• The “Flash Assist” mode compensates for poorly illuminated areas of the shot
*5 BESTSHOT scenes include “Anti Shake”, which reduces blurring caused by both shaking hands and moving subjects, as well as “High Sensitivity”, which enables bright pictures in a dim place even without the flash.

Movie Functions
• Movies recorded in VGA (640x480 pixels) size, 30 frames per second (EX-Z120: 28 frames per second) (Motion JPEG)
• Using the “MOTION PRINT” function, movies can be converted into a series of nine or just one snapshot for printing
• Movies can be zoomed in during replay • The “Movie Editing” operation offers three ways (beginning, middle, end) to cut unwanted scenes from a movie

Miscellaneous Features
• Equipped with AV out allows the camera to be directly connected to a television to view pictures and movies
• Includes “Photo Loader” software which facilitates easy transfer of pictures to a PC
• Menu display language can be set to Chinese (simplified and traditional), English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish
• Compatible with PictBridge and USB Direct Print for direct connection to printing device
• Compatible with ExifPrint (Exif 2.2) as well as PRINT Image Matching III

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Aug 4: Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z110

The Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z110 is a 6 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with a 2 inch LCD (TFT) moniter, 6cm macro mode and anti shake technology. The EX-Z110 will be in stores in September of 2005.

Get the Latest Price on the Casio Exilim EX-Z110

Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z110 Reviews

CNET Reviews the Casio Exilim EX-Z110 and writes - 'The Casio Exilim EX-Z110 doesn't have the sleek and sexy form factor of its siblings, but this 6-megapixel, 3X zoom camera offers a broad range of features--including manual exposure controls and a wealth of scene modes--that will appeal to an equally varied array of photographers. Its image quality falls a little short of good, and its performance is mixed, but snapshooters who want more than just a basic point-and-shoot may find this camera appealing.'

Cameras.co.uk reviews the Casio Exilim EX-Z110 where they write - 'The Casio EXILIM EX-Z110 certainly offers a very cheap route into digital cameras with manual exposure modes. The specification is impressive for the price and shutter lag is more or less non existent. Unfortunately the camera is far from perfect. I would like to have seen much sharper images. The camera also struggles in lowlight. '

Casio News Release for 3 models including the Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z110:

CASIO ELECTRONICS CO. LTD., in conjunction with its parent company CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. announced the release of the latest additions to its EXILIM ZOOM line up with the EX-Z10, EX-Z110, and EX-Z120 digital cameras. Designed to be user-friendly, fun, and convenient, as well as featuring CASIO's renowned EXILIM Engine with Anti Shake DSP, these offerings are intended to introduce the ease and enjoyment of high quality digital photography and world-class performance to anyone, anywhere.

The EXILIM digital camera series represents the culmination of CASIO's core technologies, combining cutting-edge miniaturization and digital expertise with state-of-the-art photographic capability. As with all digital cameras in the EXILIM series, the new EXILIM ZOOM models feature CASIO's EXILIM Engine, an image processing module that delivers high quality images, quick operation, and low power consumption, all of which have made EXILIM the camera of choice for many users the world over.

Get the Latest Price on the Casio Exilim EX-Z110

These latest models feature the Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects, while the Auto Macro and Quick Shutter functions ensure that photos are properly focused. High Sensitivity Mode produces clear shots with a bright background without the flash, even when lighting is dim. The EX-Z120 features 7.2 megapixel resolution and 32 scene BESTSHOT function located on a convenient mode dial. The EX-Z110 features 6.0 megapixels and the EX-Z10 features 5.0 megapixels, both with practical 28 scene BESTSHOT.

For enhanced user-friendliness, the mode dial and easy mode menu use simple icon images that make picture taking a snap for beginner digital camera users. The EXILIM's emblematic quick start-up is further made convenient with easily accessible DIRECT ON buttons that enable fast start-up for quick shots and photo viewing. All three new models run on AA batteries and have an AV out port allowing quick and convenient image viewing on televisions. Each camera has a 2.0-inch TFT color LCD display as well as a standard optical viewfinder, a 3x optical zoom, and VGA (640x480 pixels) size video recording capabilities. Of course, EXILIM standard features, such as short release time lag, allow pictures to be taken almost instantaneously, so you never miss the important moments. For those who want to enjoy more ambitious photography, these cameras support manual settings such as adjustable shutter speed and aperture for creative photo experiments, satisfying the needs of aspiring minds.

The EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z10, EX-Z110, and EX-Z120 cameras are designed to bring the fun and convenience of digital photography to people everywhere with user-friendly features that are true to CASIO's tradition of cutting-edge technology, intelligent functionality, and high-quality photography.

CASIO EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z10, EX-Z110 & EX-Z120 FEATURES
High Performance, Advanced Capabilities
• The EX-Z120 has a 7.2 megapixel CCD (EX-Z110: 6.0 megapixel CCD; EX-Z10: 5.0 megapixel CCD) and a slim 3x optical zoom
• High quality images, high speed, and long lasting battery in a miniaturized package with EXILIM Engine image processing module
• The latest version of the EXILIM Engine features Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects
• Large 2.0 inch digital interface TFT LCD display
• The EX-Z120 can take 170 still shots (EX-Z110: 180 shots; EX-Z10: 270 shots) on one battery charge according to CIPA standards 1
• Stylish, compact and high grade body fits well in the hand
• The zoom lever and shutter are combined into one
*1 Based on Alkaline (LR6 Matsushita Battery Industrial Co., Ltd.)

Easy to Operate User-friendly Mode
• Mode dial facilitates easy switching between still image mode, playback mode, etc.
• For first-time users who find it difficult to navigate complicated settings, easy mode displays selected menu items such as image size and flash on/off in a large, easy to understand format
• Camera powered by AA alkaline, nickel-cadmium, or lithium batteries available at most stores

Enhanced Quick Responsiveness
• Once powered on, the camera is ready to take pictures in approximately 1.3 seconds (EX-Z10/EX-Z110: approximately 1.5 seconds) 2
• After the shutter is fired, the picture is taken almost instantaneously with an approximately 0.007 seconds release time lag (EX-Z110 has 0.004 second lag) 3
• High-speed picture playback of approximately 0.1 seconds interval
• Continuous shutter function enables photos to be taken in approximately 0.9 seconds 4 intervals, limited to available space on memory card
• The “DIRECT ON” button function allows quick startup in both shooting and playback modes
*2 using internal memory, with internal flash turned off
*3 with internal flash turned off
*4 depending on the type of memory card used

Convenient and Multivariate Functions
• Simple selection from 32 different BESTSHOT scenes (EX-Z10/EX-Z110: 28 BESTSHOT scenes) 5 provides beautiful still pictures
• Manual setting allows adjustment of camera aperture, shutter speed, exposure, etc. for custom shots
• The “Quick Shutter” function reduces mistakes by facilitating simple and easy high-speed focusing
• The “Auto Macro” mode allows for automatic switching between macro mode and auto focus mode
• The “Icon Help” function provides pop-up icon guidance when adjusting camera settings
• The “Flash Assist” mode compensates for poorly illuminated areas of the shot
*5 BESTSHOT scenes include “Anti Shake”, which reduces blurring caused by both shaking hands and moving subjects, as well as “High Sensitivity”, which enables bright pictures in a dim place even without the flash.

Movie Functions
• Movies recorded in VGA (640x480 pixels) size, 30 frames per second (EX-Z120: 28 frames per second) (Motion JPEG)
• Using the “MOTION PRINT” function, movies can be converted into a series of nine or just one snapshot for printing
• Movies can be zoomed in during replay • The “Movie Editing” operation offers three ways (beginning, middle, end) to cut unwanted scenes from a movie

Miscellaneous Features
• Equipped with AV out allows the camera to be directly connected to a television to view pictures and movies
• Includes “Photo Loader” software which facilitates easy transfer of pictures to a PC
• Menu display language can be set to Chinese (simplified and traditional), English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish
• Compatible with PictBridge and USB Direct Print for direct connection to printing device
• Compatible with ExifPrint (Exif 2.2) as well as PRINT Image Matching III

Buy the Casio Exilim EX-Z110

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Aug 4: Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z120

The Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z120 is a 7.2 (CCD) megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens, antishake technology and a 2 inch TFT LCD screen. Casio claims it can take up to 170 images per charge.

Get the Latest Price on the Casio Exilim EX-Z120

We should see the Casio Exilim EX-Z120 in shops in October of 2005.

Casio News Release (for 3 models including the Casio Exilim EX-Z120

The EXILIM digital camera series represents the culmination of CASIO's core technologies, combining cutting-edge miniaturization and digital expertise with state-of-the-art photographic capability. As with all digital cameras in the EXILIM series, the new EXILIM ZOOM models feature CASIO's EXILIM Engine, an image processing module that delivers high quality images, quick operation, and low power consumption, all of which have made EXILIM the camera of choice for many users the world over.

These latest models feature the Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects, while the Auto Macro and Quick Shutter functions ensure that photos are properly focused. High Sensitivity Mode produces clear shots with a bright background without the flash, even when lighting is dim. The EX-Z120 features 7.2 megapixel resolution and 32 scene BESTSHOT function located on a convenient mode dial. The EX-Z110 features 6.0 megapixels and the EX-Z10 features 5.0 megapixels, both with practical 28 scene BESTSHOT.

For enhanced user-friendliness, the mode dial and easy mode menu use simple icon images that make picture taking a snap for beginner digital camera users. The EXILIM's emblematic quick start-up is further made convenient with easily accessible DIRECT ON buttons that enable fast start-up for quick shots and photo viewing. All three new models run on AA batteries and have an AV out port allowing quick and convenient image viewing on televisions. Each camera has a 2.0-inch TFT color LCD display as well as a standard optical viewfinder, a 3x optical zoom, and VGA (640x480 pixels) size video recording capabilities. Of course, EXILIM standard features, such as short release time lag, allow pictures to be taken almost instantaneously, so you never miss the important moments. For those who want to enjoy more ambitious photography, these cameras support manual settings such as adjustable shutter speed and aperture for creative photo experiments, satisfying the needs of aspiring minds.

The EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z10, EX-Z110, and EX-Z120 cameras are designed to bring the fun and convenience of digital photography to people everywhere with user-friendly features that are true to CASIO's tradition of cutting-edge technology, intelligent functionality, and high-quality photography.

CASIO EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z10, EX-Z110 & EX-Z120 FEATURES

High Performance, Advanced Capabilities
• The EX-Z120 has a 7.2 megapixel CCD (EX-Z110: 6.0 megapixel CCD; EX-Z10: 5.0 megapixel CCD) and a slim 3x optical zoom
• High quality images, high speed, and long lasting battery in a miniaturized package with EXILIM Engine image processing module
• The latest version of the EXILIM Engine features Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects
• Large 2.0 inch digital interface TFT LCD display
• The EX-Z120 can take 170 still shots (EX-Z110: 180 shots; EX-Z10: 270 shots) on one battery charge according to CIPA standards 1
• Stylish, compact and high grade body fits well in the hand
• The zoom lever and shutter are combined into one
*1 Based on Alkaline (LR6 Matsushita Battery Industrial Co., Ltd.)

Easy to Operate User-friendly Mode
• Mode dial facilitates easy switching between still image mode, playback mode, etc.
• For first-time users who find it difficult to navigate complicated settings, easy mode displays selected menu items such as image size and flash on/off in a large, easy to understand format
• Camera powered by AA alkaline, nickel-cadmium, or lithium batteries available at most stores

Enhanced Quick Responsiveness
• Once powered on, the camera is ready to take pictures in approximately 1.3 seconds (EX-Z10/EX-Z110: approximately 1.5 seconds) 2
• After the shutter is fired, the picture is taken almost instantaneously with an approximately 0.007 seconds release time lag (EX-Z110 has 0.004 second lag) 3
• High-speed picture playback of approximately 0.1 seconds interval
• Continuous shutter function enables photos to be taken in approximately 0.9 seconds 4 intervals, limited to available space on memory card
• The “DIRECT ON” button function allows quick startup in both shooting and playback modes
*2 using internal memory, with internal flash turned off
*3 with internal flash turned off
*4 depending on the type of memory card used

Convenient and Multivariate Functions
• Simple selection from 32 different BESTSHOT scenes (EX-Z10/EX-Z110: 28 BESTSHOT scenes) 5 provides beautiful still pictures
• Manual setting allows adjustment of camera aperture, shutter speed, exposure, etc. for custom shots
• The “Quick Shutter” function reduces mistakes by facilitating simple and easy high-speed focusing
• The “Auto Macro” mode allows for automatic switching between macro mode and auto focus mode
• The “Icon Help” function provides pop-up icon guidance when adjusting camera settings
• The “Flash Assist” mode compensates for poorly illuminated areas of the shot
*5 BESTSHOT scenes include “Anti Shake”, which reduces blurring caused by both shaking hands and moving subjects, as well as “High Sensitivity”, which enables bright pictures in a dim place even without the flash.

Movie Functions
• Movies recorded in VGA (640x480 pixels) size, 30 frames per second (EX-Z120: 28 frames per second) (Motion JPEG)
• Using the “MOTION PRINT” function, movies can be converted into a series of nine or just one snapshot for printing
• Movies can be zoomed in during replay • The “Movie Editing” operation offers three ways (beginning, middle, end) to cut unwanted scenes from a movie

Miscellaneous Features
• Equipped with AV out allows the camera to be directly connected to a television to view pictures and movies
• Includes “Photo Loader” software which facilitates easy transfer of pictures to a PC
• Menu display language can be set to Chinese (simplified and traditional), English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish
• Compatible with PictBridge and USB Direct Print for direct connection to printing device
• Compatible with ExifPrint (Exif 2.2) as well as PRINT Image Matching III

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Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z120 Reviews

Steves Digicams reviews the Casio Exilim EX-Z120 where they write - 'In addition to high resolution still images you can also capture VGA (640x480 pixels) motion video with audio at 28 frames per second. Using the "MOTION PRINT" function, movies can be converted into a series of nine images or just one snapshot for printing. Movies can be zoomed-in during replay. The "Movie Editing" operation offers three ways (beginning, middle, end) to cut unwanted scenes from a movie.'

Megapixel reviews the Casio Exilim EX-Z120 and writes - 'On the optical side, the 3X zoom, equivalent to a 38 to 114 mm — almost a standard on this class of compact camera — exhibits neither major barrel nor pincushion distortion, and is free of any chromatic aberration throughout its entire focal length range, even when the subject contains very strong contrasting zones. Noise, on the other hand, can become noticeable at higher ISO settings and even at lower settings when the ambient light is poor, while when photos are captured with plenty of light, noise is imperceptible.'

Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Casio Exilim EX-Z120 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Z120 is a good camera for the beginning digital camera owner. The easy mode provides a lot of convenience for someone who doesn't want to deal with all the options available on the camera. Even though there are many manual modes (aperture priority, shutter priority, full manual mode), I think the user that will want to use them will demand higher image quality.'

DigiCam Review has reviewed the Casio Exilim EX-Z120 where they write - 'The Casio Exilim EX-Z120 is a compact, metal bodied digital camera that provides very good 7 megapixel images. The camera provides a good 2" screen, excellent battery life, a good video mode, and an average macro mode. The camera provides a mode for every type of digital camera user, from the very beginner, to the advanced expert and the digital camera is very easy to use in all modes. The camera doesn't appear to cut back on features, yet still manages to provide excellent value for money as one of the cheapest 7 megapixel, 3x optical zoom digital cameras available. The Casio Exilim EX-Z120 is definitely recommended!'

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Aug 4: Casio Exilim EX-Z500

The Casio Exilim EX-Z500 is a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom, anti shake technology, 2.7 inch TFT LCD and long battery life (Casio claims up to 500 shots per charge).

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Casio Exilm EX-Z500 Reviews

Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Casio Exilim EX-Z500 where they write - 'The Casio Exilim EX-Z500 is a superb mid-range pocket snapshot camera at a competitive price. It has style, performance, a good list of features and the picture quality to match. The Best Shot mode will be useful for beginners, while the versatile menu options will appeal to the more experienced user. All in all, an excellent little camera.'

Pocket Lint reviews the Casio EX-Z500 and writes - 'The Casio is a solid camera that will produce good results. The large screen will appeal to the party set that like to share the images straight after they’ve taken them and the end results are good for printing too. Things to bear in mind are the need to lug the docking station around with you if you are hoping to dock on the move and the fact that you’ll have to invest in an SD card from day one if you are looking to take more than three pictures at a time. '

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Casio Exilim EX-Z500 News Release

CASIO ELECTRONICS CO. LTD., in conjunction with its parent company CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. announced the release of the latest addition to its lineup of high quality digital cameras with the EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z500. The new 5.0 megapixel EX-Z500 with 3x optical zoom boasts CASIO's Anti Shake DSP technology, a large high-resolution 2.7 inch TFT colour LCD display, and the longest battery life of the entire CASIO range — up to 500 shots on a single charge. These cutting-edge features are packaged in a sleek new ergonomically shaved body design, further enhancing the sharp and distinctive look of the EXILIM ZOOM series.

CASIO's EXILIM series of digital cameras epitomize advanced miniaturization culminating in slim, compact bodies, and digital technologies that make them faster, smaller, and more powerful. CASIO's EXILIM Engine with Anti Shake DSP, large high resolution LCD displays, and super long battery life help position the EXILIM range at the forefront of the digital camera market. The latest EXILIM ZOOM model is a perfect balance of form and function personified by its advanced features and contemporary look.

Built into the slim and beautiful body is the Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused either by shaking hands or moving subjects, while the Auto Macro and Quick Shutter functions ensure that photos are properly focused. In addition, the High Sensitivity Mode produces clear shots with a bright background without the flash, even when lighting is dim The extra-large 2.7 inch TFT colour LCD display features fine resolution of 153,600 pixels, yet battery life is further lengthened, facilitating an amazing 500 shots per charge. Convenient one-touch DIRECT ON buttons that enable fast start up for quick shots and photo viewing, as well as a practical 31scene BEST SHOT button make the EX-Z500 even more easy to use.

With all the performance and functions users have come to expect from CASIO packaged in a stylish new body, the EX-Z500 provides convenient, longer-lasting portability combined with cutting-edge technology, ensuring beautiful pictures to last a lifetime.

CASIO EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z500 FEATURES

High Performance, Advanced Capabilities
• 5.0 megapixel high resolution CCD and retracting 3x optical zoom
• High quality images, high speed, and long lasting battery in a miniaturized package with EXILIM Engine image processing module
• The latest version of the EXILIM Engine features the Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects
• SUPER LIFE Battery allows up to 500 still pictures per charge on CIPA standard
• High-resolution 153,600 (640 x 240) pixel large 2.7 inch digital interface TFT LCD display
• AF assist light function allows for perfect focus in dark places

Slim, Ergonomically Shaved Design
• Slim retractable 3x optical zoom lens results in a camera just 20.5 mm thick (18.6 mm at thinnest point)
• LCD display convexity has been eliminated, resulting a completely flat rear camera surface
• Zoom lever and shutter button combined into one
• Equipped with a one-touch BESTSHOT button that allows you to select the appropriate mode for your shot

Enhanced Quick Responsiveness
• Once powered on, the camera is ready to take pictures in approximately 0.9 seconds 1
• After the shutter is snapped, picture is taken almost instantaneously with an approximately 0.007 seconds 2 release time lag
• High-speed picture playback of approximately 0.1 seconds interval
• Continuous shutter function enables photos to be taken in approximately 0.9 second3 intervals, limited to available space on memory card
• The “DIRECT ON” button function allows quick startup in both shooting and playback modes
*1 using internal memory, with internal flash turned off
*2 with internal flash turned off
*3 depending on the type of memory card used

Convenient and Multivariate Functions
• Perfect pictures and movies can be taken using one of the 31 different “BEST SHOT” 4 settings
• The “Quick Shutter” function reduces mistakes by facilitating simple and easy high-speed focusing
• The “Auto Macro” mode allows for automatic switching between macro mode and auto focus mode
• The “Icon Help” function provides pop-up icon guidance when adjusting camera settings
• The “Flash Assist” mode compensates for poorly illuminated areas of the shot
*4 31 BESTSHOT scenes include “Anti Shake”, which reduces blurring caused by both shaking hands and moving subjects, as well as “High Sensitivity”, which enables bright pictures in a dim place even without the flash.

Movie Functions
• Movies recorded in VGA (640x480 pixels) size, 30 frames per second (Motion JPEG)
• Using the “MOTION PRINT” function, movies can be converted into a series of nine or just one snapshot for printing
• Movies can be zoomed in during replay
• The “Movie Editing” operation offers three ways (beginning, middle, end) to cut unwanted scenes from a movie

Miscellaneous Features
• The USB cradle functions as a charger as well as a simple way to connect the camera to a personal computer and other audiovisual equipment, such as a television or DVD player.
• LCD monitor brightness can be adjusted to one of two settings
• Includes “Photo Loader” software which facilitates easy transfer of pictures to a PC
• Menu display language can be set to Chinese (simplified and traditional), English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish
• Compatible with PictBridge and USB Direct Print for direct connection to printing device
• Compatible with ExifPrint (Exif 2.2) as well as PRINT Image Matching III

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Aug 4: HP Photosmart M23 Review - CNET Reviews

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.'

Read more about the HP Photosmart M23

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Aug 4: Kodak EasyShare Z740 Review at Digital Photography Review

DP Review has reviewed the Kodak EasyShare Z740 and recommends - 'the EasyShare Z740 is a budget camera that in many respects punches above its weight, and one that is perfectly targeted at the first-time user who wants a bigger zoom and appealing 'straight out of the camera' results. In the bundle form it offers a complete digital photography solution for a very low price. As to whether the camera on its own is a good deal will depend on your priorities - if you rarely shoot handheld in low light then maybe image stabilization isn't a major issue, and if you're on a budget then the $130+ you'll save by not buying a Panasonic FZ5 or Canon S2 IS is going to be a deciding factor. Like everything in this life, you get what you pay for, and the Z740 is a lot of camera for not a lot of money.'

Read more about the Kodak EasyShare Z740

Buy the Kodak Easyshare Z740 5MP Digital Camera with 10x Optical Zoom

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Aug 3: Mamiya ZD Review - Popular Photography Magazine

Popular Photography Magazine reviews the Mamiya ZD and writes - 'Will the ZD steal the thunder from lower- megapixel models, such as Canon’s 16.6MP EOS-1Ds Mark II or Nikon’s 12.4MP D2x? That’s doubtful, considering the lower price of these cameras, their superior AF, exposure and metering systems, their wider and faster burst modes, and more extensive accessories (including lenses and flash units). It’s also likely that the smaller battery on the ZD will deliver only a fraction of the images that those CMOS-based SLRs can capture. But pros who already own a Mamiya 645 AF, in addition to several expensive Mamiya AF lenses, should be drawn like a magnet to this camera. (Current 645AFd owners, on the other hand, will probably opt for the 22MP Mamiya ZD back, which has the same sensor and image-processing capability, but at a lower price.) The Mamiya ZD will primarily attract those special photographers who value image quality above all else, and can’t wait to show off this megapixel champion.'

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Aug 3: Sony Cybershot DSC H1 compared to Canon Powershot S2 IS - DC Views

DC Views have a good side by side comparison review of the Sony Cybershot DSC H1 (pictured left) compared to Canon Powershot S2 IS and concludes:

'The Sony Cybershot DSC H1 and the Canon Powershot S2 IS are almost each others equal. Apart from the same specifications, both cameras almost perform at the same level. Nevertheless the Powershot is the winner in this test because of it's somewhat higher responsiveness and much higher frame rate in continuous mode. This makes the camera very suited for sports- and action photography. Though video isn't a main feature on this kind of still cameras, the quality of the avi-movies of the Powershot S2 is stunning and therefore a pro. Both cameras are suitable for beginners and more advanced photographers and are extremely useful for 'candids', nature- and travel photography, as well as taking pictures at concerts and indoor events.'

Read more about the Sony Cybershot DSC-H1 and the Canon Powershot S2 IS

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Aug 3: HP Pulls out of Asian Digital Camera Market

A Reuters article today announces that HP are pulling out of the Asian digital camera market to refocus energy upon the Americas and Europe.

'HP, which last month announced plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce under new Chief Executive Mark Hurd, is leaving the digital camera business in Asia “to focus its investment around home photo printing, which is a high-growth area in the region,” the company said in a statement to Reuters.

HP remains committed to its digital camera business, where it has experienced growth and success in North America, (Europe) and Latin America, the company said.'

found via Imaging Resource

Update: news is also breaking that the Asian market that HP is withdrawing from includes Australia and New Zealand.

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Aug 2: Kodak EasyShare P850

The Kodak EasyShare P850 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with a 12x Optical Zoom lens (36 - 432 mm) and 2.5 inch LCD display.

The P850 will retail at $499 (USD) and should hit stores in September 2005.

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Kodak EasyShare P850 Reviews

CNET Reviews the Kodak EasyShare P850 and writes - 'Second from the top of Kodak's lineup, the 5.1-megapixel EasyShare P850 offers more features than you normally find in digital cameras on the Rochester company's roster. Those features include a 36mm-to-432mm lens (35mm equivalent); image stabilization (for the 12X zoom); manual-exposure adjustments; and controls for contrast, saturation, and even white-balance compensation. Even so, the Kodak EasyShare P850 is comparatively pricey; the 8-megapixel, wide-angle EasyShare P880 costs only about $100 more. Still, the P850 offers enough sophistication and flexibility for enthusiasts while maintaining its EasyShare simplicity for those who may eventually want to graduate to manual adjustments.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Kodak EasyShare P850 Zoom and writes - 'Optical image stabilization, combined with the advanced, hybrid AF system (25 selectable points), provides a 2-stop advantage over non-Image Stabilized systems for better capturing subjects in low light for both still and video. It also minimizes handheld camera shake at longer focal lengths, which is critical when not using a tripod � a scenario found on the sidelines of sporting events, on scenic hiking trails, and during everyday spontaneous picture-taking when carrying a stabilizing device is impractical.'

Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Kodak EasyShare P850 Digital Camera and writes - 'Overall I walk away impressed with the P850. Image quality is excellent, the 30 fps video mode could almost double as video camera, image stabilization helps in many less-than-ideal shooting situations, and the 2.5" LCD is a joy to use. What it lacks for in speed (vs. digital SLRs) it makes up for in controls and image and video quality. For the photographer looking to go beyond the basic, wanting manual creativity of the shot, and not seeking to dump $1000 plus into a digital SLR, the P850 is the ticket.'

DCRP reviews the Kodak EasyShare P850 and writes - 'The P850 has features that beginners and enthusiasts will like. For the beginners there are numerous automatic and scene modes, a very easy-to-understand interface, support for camera and printer docks, and the best photo sharing system in the industry. Enthusiasts will dig the full manual controls, RAW format support, hot shoe and conversion lens support, and the custom spots on the mode dial. Both groups will like the P850's movie mode, with its VGA (30 fps) video quality and the ability to use the zoom lens during filming. The camera's playback mode was also nice, with nice still photo, RAW image, and movie editing features.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Kodak EasyShare P850 Digital Camera and writes - 'While somewhat more advanced than the typical EasyShare model, the new P850 offers a wide range of exposure and creative control without compromising usability. The P850 offers partial and full manual exposure modes for the more advanced consumers, but also maintains a healthy selection of automatic and preset shooting modes for novices. Plus, the P850 continues with Kodak's popular EasyShare features, including printer and camera dock compatibility, the Share menu for tagging images for printing, downloading, and emailing, as well as the Favorites mode for viewing a digital photo album. '

DP Review has posted an excellent review of the Kodak EasyShare P850 digital camera where they give it a rating of 'recommended' and write - 'Ultimately then, there is much to like here - the P850 is positively bristling with features, and is one of the few cameras in its class to offer easy, menu-free access to all the most commonly used photographic functions. On paper it also offers a very compelling feature set at a competitive price, including some (RAW capture, flash hot shoe) that are pretty much unique in this class of camera. But the poor low light performance (focusing and high ISO noise), the softness, the excessive noise reduction and sharpening and the fact that this is the first camera I've tested in years that actually crashed on me more than once (requiring the removal of the battery to reset it) means I can't unreservedly recommend it. And the idea (exposed in Kodak's publicity material) that this is a serious alternative to a DSLR is, frankly, to be taken with a hefty pinch of salt.'

DigitalCameraInfo has a review of the Kodak EasyShare P850 and writes, "On the spec sheet, this digital camera looks great. It has a 12x optically stabilized Schneider-Kreuznach zoom lens, full manual controls and custom modes, a built-in flash unit and a hot shoe, and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. Granted, many of its components on the SLR-shaped body are very nice. The 5.1-megapixel Kodak EasyShare P850 has a large cushy viewfinder with resolution that is better than most of its competitors. Its stabilization system keeps video looking smooth even when utilizing the long lens while recording. There are lots of movie editing features that allow users to save only what they want. The list of great features coupled with the low $299 price tag does sound very inviting. But are you buying the specs or the pictures that will come from the camera? If beautiful pictures are desired, pass up this model. Even with all the manual modes and components, the Kodak EasyShare P850 skimps on its inner workings. The color reproduction isn't up to par with compact models - and this is supposed to be the Performance series! There is noticeable shutter lag and the built-in flash casts an eerily uneven light that is reminiscent of the Blair Witch Project's now infamous cover shot. Overall, the P850 can take decent pictures in bright light but its indoor shots are just as scary and amateur looking as the Blair Witch's cover art."

Kodak EasyShare P850 News Release Extract

Get Closer with the KODAK EASYSHARE P850 zoom digital camera
The KODAK EASYSHARE P850 camera makes it easier than ever for amateur photographers to shoot like a professional. It features a 12X, 36 – 432 mm (35mm equiv.), image-stabilized, f2.8 – f/3.7, SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON lens to get incredibly close to a scene while maintaining detail and sharpness.

Optical image stabilization, combined with the advanced, hybrid AF system (25 selectable points), provides a 2-stop advantage over non-Image Stabilized systems for better capturing subjects in low light for both still and video. For instance, if a particular scene called for at least a 1/500 shutter speed to “stop” the action under normal circumstances, the EASYSHARE P850 could deliver the same effect with a much slower 1/125 shutter speed, resulting in a bright yet crisp image. It also minimizes handheld camera shake at longer focal lengths, which is critical when not using a tripod — a scenario found on the sidelines of sporting events, on scenic hiking trails, and during everyday spontaneous picture-taking when carrying a stabilizing device is impractical.

The P850 model shares many elements of the more advanced P880, including 30 fps VGA video with single-frame still-extraction and trim/cut/splice/merge editing abilities. Thanks to cutting-edge Motion JPEG technology, record longer, TV-quality videos with sound — up to 80 continuous minutes depending on card capacity — while using less memory storage. EASYSHARE Software version 5 even makes combining, rotating, and adding music to video clips a breeze. The camera’s bright, high-quality LCD and EVF simplify working with, viewing and sharing videos.

Other features include a unique hot shoe for extended lighting control; PASMC and extensive preset scene modes; multiple burst modes for action shooting; a live histogram; highlight/shadow clipping displays; RAW/TIFF/JPEG support; and lithium ion battery. It is compatible with EASYSHARE printer docks, the IMAGELINK print system, and PICTBRIDGE technology.

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Aug 2: Kodak EasyShare P880

The Kodak EasyShare P880 is an 8 megapixel digital camera with a 5.8x Optical Zoom lens. It will retail for $599 and should hit stores in September 2005.

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Kodak EasyShare P880 News Release Extract

Go Wide with the KODAK EASYSHARE P880 zoom digital camera
The innovative KODAK EASYSHARE P880 zoom digital camera brings in-demand KODAK technologies and features to serious photographers, setting a new price-to-performance benchmark. It provides more expansive picture-taking capability with a 24-140mm (35mm equiv) wide-angle, f/2.8 - f/4.1, professional-quality SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON zoom lens. The 24mm wide angle setting is ideal for landscape photography, allowing a person to get closer to subjects, while contributing to greater sense of place by “pulling in” foreground objects with greater depth of field. It's also ideal for interior photography, where barriers such as walls typically make it difficult to get all desired subjects into a shot. Creative photographers can also shoot with this wide perspective for unique portraiture, or to capture a greater scenic expanse for later cropping.

With the same integrated lens, users can also optically zoom up to 140 mm (5.8X) using the manual zoom ring for precise framing. Achieve accurate focusing, even in low light conditions, with the selectable 25-point, advanced, hybrid Auto Focus system or via the manual focus ring. Experience enhanced, flexible lighting control via the hot shoe flash connector, plus the PC sync port for off-camera flash options.

The P880 model offers the freedom to select multiple shooting modes, including program, aperture and shutter priorities, fully manual, and custom modes. For rapid camera adjustments, dial-in multiple pre-set scene modes or switch to automatic mode.

Video takes on a new dimension with the EASYSHARE P880 camera — a function not available in dSLRs. Capture VGA video at 30 frames per second (Motion JPEG compression) with the unique ability to use full optical zoom, then trim, cut, splice and merge clips on the camera. Even extract individual video frames as JPEGs at 640 x 480 resolution — presenting an ultra-high-speed alternative to the camera’s multiple burst modes (first/last/time lapse burst) — which can then be shared and printed up to 4 x 6 inches.

For the first time, Kodak has added RAW file support to its EASYSHARE camera line to enable more post-capture flexibility for enthusiasts. These files allow for in-camera JPEG and TIFF extraction, as well as RAW editing within new KODAK EASYSHARE software v5.1. The new Kodak RAW format uniquely embeds a dynamic JPEG within the file, permitting rapid RAW file viewing and organization in the software, without requiring RAW conversion.

Additional highlights include a live histogram with highlight and shadow clipping for immediate on-camera exposure assessment; a 2.5-inch, high-resolution LCD; a 237,000 pixel electronic viewfinder with diopter; a high-capacity lithium ion battery; shutter speeds ranging from 16 – 1/4000 second, plus a bulb setting; one-push custom white balance; digital red-eye reduction; and a manually-raised pop-up flash. Using the P880 with the new P20 Zoom Flash will provide even greater lighting control. At a weight of only 19.6 oz. (556 g), including battery and SD card, with a compact body (4.6W x 3.8H x 3.6D in.), including lens, the camera is highly portable while providing an excellent in-hand fit and feel.

As with all EASYSHARE cameras, the P880 model is compatible with KODAK EASYSHARE printer docks and camera docks, the IMAGELINK print system, and PICTBRIDGE technology for direct photo output without a computer.

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Kodak EasyShare P880 Reviews

Lets Go Digital has a first look review of the Kodak EasyShare P880 and writes - 'The Kodak EasyShare P880 is an interesting digital camera. It is a new concept from Kodak. Packed with all kinds of photographic settings, but priority is given to ease-of-use. Handling the new Kodak P880 is easy. Though I cannot imagine that the P880 is an interesting digital camera for anyone who labels him or herself as semi-pro or pro, it still offers quite a number of the settings you are used to having when working with an advanced camera like a DSLR. The Kodak EasyShare P880 will be of interest to a large group of consumers, especially those who are searching for something that is somewhat more than an entry-level (EasyShare) digital camera, but on condition that you don't have to possess enhanced photographic knowledge. Not the ultimate compact design, but great grip, solid built and a concept with potency...'

Steves Digicams reviews the Kodak EasyShare P880 Zoom and writes - 'The 24mm wide angle setting is ideal for landscape photography and interior photography and also offers greater depth of field. Creative photographers can shoot with this wide perspective for unique portraiture, or to capture a greater scenic expanse for later cropping. The same lens optically zooms out to 140mm (5.8X), controlled by a manually-operated ring for precise framing. The autofocus system is highly accurate even in low-light conditions and you can manually focus using another ring on the lens.'

Digital Camera Info reviews the Kodak EasyShare P880 and writes - 'Still, the Kodak EasyShare P880 has some nice features. It has a wide 24-140mm Schneider-Kreuznach zoom lens that accepts telephoto conversion lenses. This versatile digital camera also has a four-pin hot shoe for flash attachments. The Kodak P880 offers the gamut of user control, a fully manual mode, a fully automatic mode, and two priority and plenty of scene modes in between. There are even three custom modes. The Kodak EasyShare P880 is meant to compete with top of the line digital cameras and low-end DSLRs, but with its $599 retail price and collection of drawbacks it falls short of its potential.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Kodak EasyShare P880 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Kodak EasyShare P880 is the latest in a long line of digital cameras that has proven popular and very user-friendly throughout its history. Kodak's EasyShare line of digital cameras live up to the "Easy" part of their name, as they're among the simplest and most goof-proof to operate out there. While still retaining good ease of use in full-auto mode, the Kodak P880 steps out into relatively new territory for Kodak, as a credible effort at a true enthusiast camera, offering full exposure control, an excellent lens, and both a hot shoe and threaded PC-sync socket for use with an external flash, increasing rarities these days. are among the easiest and most goof-proof out there, and while the Kodak P880 offers a much wider range of exposure and creative controls than the main EasyShare line, it still maintains relative ease of use. '

Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Kodak P880 Digital Camera and writes - 'The newest Easyshare digicam is obviously aimed at the prosumer marketing niche, but Kodak also touts the P880 as a capable and easy to use alternative to larger, heavier, and more expensive entry-level dSLR cameras -- a camera for those who want exceptional images, but don't want to learn advanced photographic skills.'

Megapixel reviews the Kodak Easyshare P880 and writes - 'Featuring an 8-megapixel resolution, a super wide � 24 to 140 mm � 5.8 X manual zoom manufactured by Schneider-Kreuznach; a 2.5-inch, 115,000 pixel LCD monitor; and a 237,000 pixel electronic viewfinder, the P880 is aimed at users looking for more flexibility than is available with a point and shoot, short of moving to a dSLR.'

CNET reviews the Kodak EasyShare P880 and writes - 'Cameras made for advanced amateurs are often tuned for capturing high-quality images quickly and easily, and they're stripped of extraneous gimmicks, such as an overabundance of scene modes. The 8-megapixel Kodak EasyShare P880, at the top of the company's flagship Performance Series, offers a wide-angle zoom lens, as well as design elements, features, and specs that place the camera in that category but delivers them in an uneven and frequently disappointing implementation.'

DP Review has reviewed the Kodak EasyShare P880 and gives it a rating of 'recommended'. They write - 'Kodak has been quite clever with the P880, identifying a niche in the 'prosumer' market that isn't filled by the likes of the Panasonic FZ30, and filling it. Taken as an overall package the P880 offers little to differentiate it from its main competitors, but for those who like to 'shoot wide' it is almost in a class of its own. Looking at the three nearest competitors (the Fuji S9000, Samsung Pro815 and Konica Minolta A200), none has a 24mm equiv. lens (all start at 28mm equiv.) - though all have longer tele ends, and all are considerably pricier. The KM A200 - perhaps the nearest competitor - has a longer zoom range and the undeniable benefit of image stabilization, but the P880 produces sharper results with more appealing color.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Kodak EasyShare P880 Digital Camera and writes - 'It looks like the camera intends to offer itself as an alternative for the digital reflex camera. An aim that often turns out too ambitious for some. The mix of high resolution, big-size LCD display, appealing zoom wide and studio features, seem to be interesting enough to give it a closer look. Our experiences with the Kodak EasyShare P880 in practice are available in the next Kodak P880 digital camera review.'

ComputerActive has a review up of the Kodak EasyShare P880 and writes, "The P880 powers up in around a second and, as enthusiasts would expect, it allows you to manually tweak the camera’s settings ­ including the speed at which it takes an image (shutter speed) and the amount of light it lets reach the sensor (aperture). The camera can save a personalised set-up so it can be recalled next time you switch on. There is also the familiar range of pre-programmed scene modes, though its Program mode in which it automatically selects the best combination ­ is a reliable fallback, capable of picking up fine detail like dust on a jar lid. Overall, it’s one of the nearest experiences you’ll get to owning an SLR without actually buying one."

ThinkCamera reviews the Kodak P880 and gives it a rating of 7 out of 10. They write - 'When I contacted Kodak and told them this camera had done well in our £250 test they were surprised because the RRP is £450. However, search hard and you'll find it for less than £250. At that price it represents a very good buy. Image quality is up there with the best and it has more features than you could shake a stick at. However, if you start comparing it to a DSLR then you will probably be disappointed. The speed of operation is decent for a bridge camera but seems glacial next to even an entry level DSLR. But if you just want an easy to use camera that will grow with you and provide trouble free use then the Kodak P880 is well worth a look - especially if you want a wide angle lens. '

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Aug 2: Pentax Optio S45 Review - Trusted Reviews

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Pentax Optio S45 and writes - 'A nicely designed and well-made budget compact camera with excellent handling and a number of useful and novel features. Shot-to-shot performance is a bit slow, but the major problem seems to be bad lens distortion, which if not corrected cripples an otherwise good camera.'

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Aug 2: HP Photosmart M22 Review - DigiCamReview.co.uk

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.'

Read more about the HP Photosmart M22 digital camera.

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Aug 2: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5S Review - CNET Reviews

CNET Reviews has a review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5S digital camera and writes - 'We like the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ4, but this 1-megapixel upgrade is even better. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5 has the same optically stabilized 12X Leica Vario-Elmarit zoom lens (the different focal-length range is the result of pairing it with a different sensor), it has similar performance and image quality and, unlike its cheaper sibling, includes a microphone and speaker for audio annotation or video film clips with sound.

Manual exposure controls, an SLR-like design, and advanced options that include lossless TIFF file storage will appeal to the photo enthusiast, while an abundance of scene choices, such as a neophyte-friendly Simple mode, ease snapshooters into the world of the megazoom. Some Rube Goldberg touches--including a lens hood that must be removed each time you use the flash or the autofocus-assist lamp--are annoying, at best. However, once you get used to the FZ5's quirky design, it works quickly and well.'

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Aug 2: Nikon D70s Review - PhotographyBLOG

PhotographyBLOG has a review of the Nikon D70s DSLR and writes - 'The Nikon D70s is as good an excuse as any to dip your toe in the water and join the DSLR revolution. It provides almost everything that most photographers will ever need in a camera (digital or otherwise), whilst delivering fantastic ease of use and very impressive image quality. The Nikon D70s offers a wealth of features, fast and accurate operation and solid build quality at a price point that would have been difficult to believe only a couple of years ago. Negative points are few - it “only” has 6 megapixels (although this is more of a marketing thing than anything else), the Multi Selector arrow-pad is spongy and unresponsive, and the shutter release mechanism is on the noisy side. I thoroughly enjoyed using the Nikon D70s and would have no hesitation in buying this camera, if I didn't already have a substantial vested interest in Canon lenses!'

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Aug 2: Mamiya 645AFDII

Mamiya News Release

We are pleased to introduce the 645AFDII, a successor model of the discontinued 645AFD.

• Mamiya 645AFDII Body w/Neck Strap
• Mamiya 645AFDII Body w/AF 80mm f/2.8 Lens & Film Back HM401

Product highlights of our new 645AFDII

• Electronically controlled mirror-up
• 1/3 or 1/2 f/stop adjustment of aperture and shutter speed
• Dedicated buttons for multiple exposure and auto-bracket
• 36 custom setting menus
• New “l + l” shaped AF sensor (was “l-l” shaped)
• 2-way (normal or spot) auto-focusing
• AF lock function
• 2 or 3 shot auto-bracketing

Specifications

• Type 6x4.5 cm format electronically controlled focal-plane shutter, TTL multiple mode AE, AF single lens reflex
• Actual Image Size 56 x 41.5mm (actual image size)
• Film Type 120 roll film (16 exposures), 220 roll film (32 exposures), Polaroid Land Pack Film (requires special HP402 back)
• Lens Mount Mamiya 645 AF mount, compatible with M645 mount (manual focus, focus aid, stop-down exposure metering)
• Viewfinder Fixed prism eye-level viewfinder, magnification x0.71, built-in diopter adjustment (-2.5 to +0.5 diopter, optional diopter lenses provide adjustment ranges of -5 to -2 diopter and 0 to +3 diopter), built-in eyepiece shutter.
• Focusing Screen Selectable from Matt (standard) and Checker and manual focus microprism for M645 lenses
• Field-of-view 94% of actual image
• Based on a linear (horizontal / vertical) measurement
• Viewfinder Information Focus mark, out-of-focus direction marks, aperture value, shutter speed value, metering mode (A, S, A-S AUTO), exposure compensation value (difference between set value and metered value), bracketing position, battery checker, AE Lock
• AF System TTL phase-difference detection type, detecting device: 4 CCD line sensors in l+l shape
• Focusing Area Indicated on the focusing screen (focusing range: 10.8 x 3.6 mm in the centre)
• AF Infrared Beam Activates automatically under low light, low contrast. Effective distance: about 9m (AF 80mm f/2.8 lens); automatic switching to flash unit’s built-in infrared beam when Metz flash unit is attached (ON/OFF selectable).
• AF Lock Half-press on shutter release and AF Lock Button
• Exposure Control Modes Aperture priority AE, shutter priority AE, programmed AE, manual
• Setting Steps Shutter speed and aperture both can be set in 1/3 or 1/2 steps, electronic dial lock
• Metering Mode TTL metering; centre-weighted average (A), spot (S) and auto A-S variable ratio (A-S AUTO)
• Metering Range EV 2 to EV 19 (with ISO 100 film, f/2.8 lens)
• Exposure Compensation +/-3 or +/-5EV (1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 steps)
• Film Speed ISO 25 to 6400
• AE Lock With AEL button, cancelled by re-pressing or power switch off.
• Shutter Electronically controlled vertical metal focal-plane shutter
• Shutter Speeds AE: 30 to 1/4000sec. (1/8 step), Manual: 30 to 1/4000sec.(1/2 step), X, B (Bulb, automatically controlled), automatic shutter curtain open mechanism (opens when film back, Polaroid back or digital back is removed, automatically closed when back is re-attached)
• Auto-Bracketing Enabled with Auto-bracketing button (2 or 3 frames auto- bracketing), 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1EV step units selectable
• Flash Synchronization 1/125 sec.; automatically sets to 1/125 sec. in M and Tv modes, synchronized 1/60 - 1/125 sec. with TTL flash in P and Av modes (when Metz flash unit is used)
• X synchronized speed can be customized.
• Flash Control TTL direct metering, supports Metz SCA3002 system (SCA3952 adapter required)
• Film Transport &
• loading Automatic via built-in motor, single or continuous exposures
• Automatic advance to the first frame when shutter release button is pressed once (Easy loading function)
• Multiple Exposure Enabled with Multiple Exposure button, 2 to 6 exposures or unlimited
• Mirror-up Electronically activated by Mirror-up button
• External LCD On camera body: program mark, time mark, M.D.Y. mark, aperture value , shutter speed value, AF area, exposure compensation, battery check, AEB mark, self-timer, multiple exposure, etc.
• On 120/220 film back: ISO speed, type of film (120 or 220), exposure number
• Data Imprinting 7 segment dot matrix; DATA mode: exposure mode, aperture value, shutter speed value, exposure compensation, bracketing position, metering mode, index number
• DAY mode: year, month, date, time, index number.
• Index number only
• ON/OFF selectable
• Sync Terminal X Contact (sync speed 1/125 sec.)
• Remote-control terminal On side of body, electromagnetic cable release
• Cable release socket On shutter release button
• Self-timer With shutter release mode selector lever, 2 to 60 sec. (default setting: 10 sec., can be set in 1 sec. steps between 2 and 10 sec., and in 10 sec. steps between 10 and 60 sec.)
• Depth-of-field confirmation With Preview button
• Tripod Socket U 1/4 inch and U 3/8 included
• Power Requirements Body: 6 AA batteries (alkaline-magnesium or lithium)
• 120/220 Film back: 1 for memory back up (3V lithium battery CR203)
• Dimensions 153(W) x 128(H) x 184(D) mm
• (With AF 80mm f/2.8 lens and 120/220 roll film back)
• Weight 1 730g (with AF 80mm f/2.8 lens and 120/220 roll film back, without batteries)

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Aug 2: Sony DSC H1 Review - Cameras.co.uk

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. '

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Aug 2: Pentax Optio S5z Review - Cameras.co.uk

Cameras.co.uk reviews the Pentax Optio S5z and writes - 'Pentax have clearly put a lot of thought into the design of the Optio S5z. All the key features such as flash and zoom are controlled by buttons on the back of the camera. There is a separate mode button that allows you to select automatic mode, movie mode or a particular scene mode easily. The remaining settings are all listing within the menu. Everything is in one list that you scroll through until you find the setting you wish to amend. This way it is easy to find the option you are looking for. The large 2.5“ LCD screen makes it easy to read the menu options as well.'

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Aug 2: Panasonic DMC LS1 Review - Cameras.co.uk

Cameras.co.uk has a review of the Panasonic DMC LS1 and writes - 'The Panasonic DMC LS1 is a standard point and shoot digital camera. Its main attraction is its ease of use. Therefore it is likely to appeal to anyone who enjoys taking photographs, but would like a camera that they could just pick up and use. It can handle all the normal social photo opportunities such as holiday snaps, parties and get togethers, plus shots for the family album. The DMC LS1 is a four megapixel model with a three time optical zoom lens.'

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Aug 1: Better Outdoor Portraits

A tip submitted by Darren Collins

This is an easy technique I read about a long time ago, and it works really well. I use it a lot when shooting weddings and portraits.

Outdoor portraits can often end up with a washed-out and boring sky when you set your camera to correctly expose the person’s face. But if you set the exposure to capture the sky perfectly, you end up with a very dark or even silhouetted person. We all know you can use fill flash outdoors to correct this, but even then the exposure can be a bit unpredictable if left up to the camera.

The technique I like to use is:

- take a meter reading from the sky
- set your camera to Manual mode
- set the aperture according to the depth of field you want
- set your shutter speed to correctly expose the sky (based on the earlier reading)
- turn your flash on and set it to E-TTL (or whatever the equivalent is on non-Canon cameras)

You may need to tweak your aperture setting (or ISO, if shooting digital) if the required shutter speed is faster than your flash sync
speed.

The manual exposure gives perfect exposure for the sky, whether it’s a deep blue with white fluffy clouds, a sunset, a looming storm, or whatever. The flash will light your subject perfectly, giving a nicely balanced overall picture. You might need to experiment a little to determine whether you need to use flash exposure compensation - I get good results from my EOS 20D 580ex combo without any compensation.

One problem that might occur is that your on-camera flash can make the subject look a bit flat, giving the photo a ‘fake’ overall look. A diffuser like the Lumiquest Big Bounce can soften the edges of shadows and make your lighting look a lot more natural, especially if you can combine it with an off-camera flash cord. Even better would be a mobile studio light with a softbox or umbrella. Just make sure you get the lighting direction from the flash right so that it doesn’t contradict the direction of the lighting in the background - that can look awful!

------
Darren Collins runs One Stop Under (http://www.OneStopUnder.com), a photography blog geared towards the interests of advanced amateur and professional photographers.

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Aug 1: Fujifilm FinePix F10 Review - Photoxels

Photoxels reviews the Fujifilm FinePix F10 and writes - 'The Fujifilm FinePix F10 Zoom has set new standards in the evolution of digital cameras. Fujifilm's new 5th Generation SuperCCD HR image sensor, Real Photo Technology processing and Fujinon lens work together in the Fujifilm F10 to produce excellent picture quality with exceptional low noise at high ISOs.

Being able to take pictures at ISO 400 in a P&S consumer digital camera without noise being much of a problem is unheard of -- until now. The Fujifilm F10 goes one step further to provide a high ISO 1600 -- available mostly in high-end dSLR cameras -- with acceptable noise in 4x6 in. prints and 800x600 pixels screen display. For many amateur photographers, the possibility to at last use a digital camera in sunny and low-light conditions alike makes the Fujifilm F10 a very attractive digital camera.'

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Aug 1: Fuji FinePix Z1 Review - Pocket-lint.co.uk

Pocket-lint reviews the Fuji FinePix Z1 and writes - 'While the lack of manual controls may put some off, the Z1 offers an ideal combination of point and shootability with bags of style – despite the handling compromises. And like the F10 before it, Fuji’s Super CCD HR sensor with which the Z1 is equipped works well; the Z1 is capable of producing stunning images and I can recommend it heartily.'

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Aug 1: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5

The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T5 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom, 2.5 inch LCD screen and 32 megabytes of internal memory. The T5 extends the ultra slim DSC-T series of caemras, incorporating a vertical design, light weight aluminum case (in four autumn colors) and an internal folded lens. It takes Memory Stick Duo and looks like a pretty stylish design that should be easy to pack in your pocket (more pictures of the DSC-T5 below the fold).

Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSCT5 5.1MP Digital Camera

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 Reviews

Digital Camera Resource Page reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 and writes - 'In terms of features, the DSC-T5 is point-and-shoot. There are several scene modes, though I wish slower shutter speeds were available. The camera offers a VGA movie mode that can record video until the memory card is full. Do note that for the highest quality movies you must purchase a Memory Stick Pro Duo card -- regular MS Duo cards and the internal memory will not work.

Camera performance is impressive. The T5 starts up quickly, focuses quickly, and there's no shutter lag. Low light focusing is good thanks to t he camera's AF-assist lamp. Battery life has been improved since earlier T-series models, as well. Photo quality is good, though the T5 has the same "image fuzziness" as other cameras that use this lens design. Redeye will also be a problem. Speaking of flash photos, the T5's flash is quite weak -- a side-by-side with the Canon SD550 that I had with me showed a very noticeable difference in flash range.'

Steves Digicams has a review of the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T5 and recommends it by writing - 'The T5 is a robust performer. From sliding open the lens cover till the first shot was captured measured an impressive 1.5 seconds; you will not miss many unposed spontaneous photo opportunities. Shutter lag, the time between depressing the shutter and capturing the image, measured 1/10 second when pre-focused, and lag including autofocus was an equally impressive 3/10 second; both of these times include about 1/10 second of delay in the live image on the LCD viewfinder. In single shot mode, images could be captured at a rate of 1 every 8/10 second with Auto Review off, or 1 per second with Auto Review on. Using flash, shot-to-shot time ranged between 1.5 and 4 seconds depending on subject distance.'

CNET reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-T5 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber Shot DSC-T5, part of the sleek and slender T line, shares much of the DNA of its T7 sibling, including a 5.1-megapixel Super HAD CCD, a 3X Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar zoom lens, and a stylish design, as well as point-and-shoot ease of use. One area where the two diverge, however, is price. For $150 less, the T5 won't come with the desktop stand or the 32MB media card that accompany the T7, but you'll get a built-in tripod mount, 32MB of internal memory, a longer-lasting battery, a more powerful flash, and a few other benefits---all of which add up to make the T5 more appealing than its fraternal twin. And, for fun, the T5 is available in several colors: red, gold, black, and silver. Unfortunately, the T5 retains the T7's less than stellar image quality.'

Digital Camera Info reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 makes good on Sony’s promise to release digital cameras with big LCDs, mega resolution, and internal memory. The T5’s 2.5-inch LCD screen includes 230,000 pixels, which is almost twice what the competition is offering on their screens. The T5 has 5.1 megapixels of shooting power and 32 MB of internal memory in which to save those shots. This model is designed primarily to point and shoot – and slide into a pocket when it’s not doing that. The 3x optical zoom lens does not extend from the body, which makes packing the T5 away easy and comfortable. This snapshot-oriented digital camera comes with automated features, ten scene modes, and a movie mode to please the majority of users. Its sleek body is offered in four different colors, making the stylish T5 a viable alternative for the fashion-conscious crowd. '

Cameras.co.uk reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC T5 and writes - 'The colour test produces a good result too. The colours are not quite as vivid as you might see with Canon IXUS models, but you could argue that the colours produced by this camera have a more natural feel.... There is a lot to like about the Sony DSC T5. It is a very stylish ultra compact camera. Picture quality also stands up well against other digital cameras with a similar design. Although it is one of the more expensive models in its category it is well worth considering.'

Popular Photography reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 and writes - 'In our lab tests, the AF was quick and reliable. The bright red assist lamp may distract your subjects, but you can turn it off. The tiny flash doesn't do too much. At ISO 400, it covers just over eight feet (a few feet better than the T1).... About the only thing missing is some form of image stabilization. Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FX9 and Konica Minolta's DiMAGE X1 both include IS. But not for $350. And that leaves a little extra cash to splurge on the party.'

Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 and writes - 'Ultra-slim design and a good array of options cannot compensate for very low picture quality. Image noise, over-processing, lens distortion and purple fringing all conspire to ruin what could have been a nice little snapshot camera. Add in questionable handling and some flimsy components and it’s game over for the DSC-T5.'

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T5 News Release

Why not spice up the color and activity of fall with Sony’s latest “always with you, always ready” compact camera that easily slips in your pocket or smallest bag. The new Cyber-shot DSC-T5 digital camera is ultra slim, yet delivers great pictures.

Great value and performance in a slim package

Like other cameras in Sony’s T Series, this new model combines Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar optics with 5.1 megapixel resolution, a 3x optical zoom lens, a 2.5“ Clear Photo LCD screen, 32 MB of internal memory for storage and easy transfer to an optional Memory Stick media card*, and increased battery life compared to previous T Series models, with up to 240 shots per charge.

The T5 has a vertical design: It features a lightweight, aluminum body available in four autumnal colors – red, champagne gold, silver and black – with a sliding matte silver lens cover.

“This is the perfect ‘next’ camera for anyone who doesn’t want to miss a moment, whether out on the town or at family gatherings,” said James Neal, director of digital imaging products at Sony Electronics “It’s the most affordable model in our T series and a great value given its enhanced performance.”

Get the shots you want

It is easy to get the shots you want with the Cyber-shot T5. Slide the lens cover down and the camera is ready to capture images in less than a second. Thanks to its folding-optical-path design, the lens never needs to extend forward from the camera body. So you can enjoy the quality of Carl Zeiss optics and the power of a 3x optical zoom in a compact body.

The T5 also comes equipped with Sony’s anti-reflective Clear Photo LCD screen, which significantly reduces unwanted glare in brightly-lit environments and delivers vivid color reproduction. The camera’s large 2.5“ screen is optimized for easy viewing and sharing of images with friends, even at wide angles - whenever, wherever.

Ten pre-set picture-taking modes also make it easier to get the perfect shot, without having to make any adjustments. Select ”Magnifying Glass“ for macro shooting up to 1 cm from your object or ”High Speed Shutter“ to catch fast-moving action like your mom’s tennis match.

And don’t worry about your battery keeping up with you; Sony’s Real Imaging Processor power management system lets you shoot full resolution images in seconds. At 240 shots per charge, the Cyber-shot T5’s InfoLithium T series battery won’t let you down.

With this new camera, you not only get the still image but the video too. With an optional Memory Stick PRO Duo media card, shooting high-quality video is simple. MPEG-VX fine mode lets you record MPEG video with 640x480 pixel resolution at 30 frames per second, up to the capacity of a compatible media card. A 1-gigabyte Sony Memory Stick card can hold up to 12 minutes of VGA-quality 640 x 480 MPEG video and 384, 5-megapixel JPEG Fine images.

There’s so much more you can do with your memories

Once you have captured the perfect pictures and MPEG videos, don’t let them sit in your camera or PC. Share them with your family and friends. Connect the T5 to a Sony DPP-FP50 digital photo printer and view your favorite photos as a slideshow on your television or turn them into postcards, calendars and much more.

If you need to print tens or perhaps even hundreds of pictures or want to share funny video clips, let Sony’s online photo service make the job simple. Visit www.imagestation.com and use your special memories to create your own online photo and video albums, order prints, or make customized gifts from coffee mugs and photo books to calendars and T-shirts.

The Cyber-shot T5 will be available in September for about $350 (red, black and champagne gold options will be available in October) on SonyStyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin on August 1st at www.sony.com/T5.

The camera comes supplied with a NP-FT1 InfoLithium battery, BC-CS3 battery charger, multi-connector cable, wrist strap and software CD-ROM. Optional accessories include the SPK-THB sports pack, CSS-TNA Cyber-shot Station cradle, and LCS-THC form-fitting leather case.

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Aug 1: DXG 552 and DXG 568

DXG Press Release

Both Cameras Offer Quality and Style at an Affordable Price

DXG USA, one of the fastest growing digital camera manufacturers in the United States, today announced the introduction of two new 5.1 megapixel digital cameras designed for entry-level and step-up buyers. The two models will be available for shipping in August.

DXG-568 - 5.1 Megapixel Compact (pictured above)
Priced at $129.99, the DXG-568 is a compact digital camera loaded with features not found in similar models. The camera boasts a 1/1.8“ 5.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, 4x digital zoom, built-in 32MB flash memory, external SD card slot, 1.5” TFT LCD screen, full-motion (30 frames per second) 640x480 AVI video with sound, Direct Print capability and a flash. The camera also offers voice recorder functionality, TV-Out capability for viewing pictures on a television, five white balance settings, four still image settings (1MP, 3MP, 5MP, and 10MP using firmware interpolation) and a USB 2.0 interface.

DXG-552 - 5.1 Megapixel Slim Model (pictured below)
Priced at just $139.99, the stylish DXG-552 offers the same 5.1 megapixel sensor and full-motion video capabilities as the Model 568, but offers a larger 2.0“ LTPS LCD housed within a slim body with a sleek chromed metal front. At 3.5” x 2.2“ x 0.9”, the camera is the size of a deck of playing cards. The DXG-552 and DXG-568 can both be used as a PC cam and ship with USB/AV cables, camera case, wrist strap, editing software and alkaline batteries.

“Our strong growth over the past year has been the result of camera models that provide quality and style at the right price,” said Paul Goldberg, Sr. VP of Sales and Marketing for DXG USA. “These new models definitely continue in that tradition and we see them as being big sellers this holiday season. A few large retailers have already pre-ordered a significant number of units.”

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Aug 1: Canon Powershot S2 IS Review - Megapixel

Megapixel reviews the Canon Powershot S2 IS and writes - 'Without any doubt, the Canon PowerShot S2 IS is a very likeable camera, as are most compact digital cameras equipped with a long zoom. These are cameras that offer a great latitude for the photographer, allowing clear shots of both near and far subjects, a capability to which the PowerShot S2 adds a very effective image stabilizer.

Indeed, the value of the image stabilizer should not be underestimated. While a long zoom is a superb feature on a compact camera, without any stabilization its usefulness is compromised.'

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Aug 1: Casio Exilim EX-S500 Review - CNET Reviews

CNET Reviews the Casio Exilim EX-S500 (for some reason they chose to review an orange one!) and writes - 'The latest in Casio's slim-jim line of card cameras, the 5-megapixel Exilim EX-S500 offers a 3X optical zoom and a number of features missing in its predecessor, the S100. They include a burst mode, MPEG-4 video capture, and the ever-important AF illuminator, rounding out this pocket camera's generous feature set. Its photo quality doesn't distinguish it, but if you're not too picky about that, it's definitely worth a look.'

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Aug 1: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ4 Review - Imaging Resource

Imaging Resource reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ4 and writes - 'After reviewing its five-megapixel “big brother” the Panasonic FZ5, the Panasonic FZ4 was a bit of a disappointment. It was a competent enough camera, but missed the mark slightly in a number of areas, particularly when compared with the solid performance of the FZ5. Image noise was higher than I'd like, resolution was a bit on the low side relative to other four-megapixel digital cameras we've tested, and I didn't feel that its color rendition was quite as good as that of the FZ5. Those issues aside though, I was very surprised and pleased with how fast the FZ4 was: It has some of the fastest full-autofocus shutter lag numbers I've yet seen in a consumer digicam (quite a bit better than the already impressive figures from the FZ5), and the shot to shot cycle times were flat-out amazing. (Only just over a half second from shot to shot in large/fine single-shot mode.) Bottom line, for the $50 or so difference in “street” prices, I think the Panasonic FZ5 is a much better deal than the FZ4. That said though, if you want a really fast digital camera for shooting sports or other distant action, you just can't do better than the FZ4: It combines a very long zoom lens with optical image stabilization, and some of the fastest shutter response and shot to shot times of any (non-SLR) camera I've tested.'

Read more about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ4

Buy the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ4 4MP Digital Camera with 12x Image Stabilized Optical Zoom

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