Sep 27: Olympus Evolt E-500

The Olympus Evolt E-500 is an 8.15 megapixel (CCD) DSLR from Olympus that comes with a 2.5inch LCD (215,000 pixels), xD and CF cards and Four Thirds lens mount.

The Olympus Evolt E-500 DSLR will be priced at $799.99 (bundled with a 14-45mm f3.5/5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens) or $899.99 (bundled with 40-150mm f3.5/4.5 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens).

Get the Latest Price on the Olympus EVOLT E500 8MP Digital SLR with 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 & 40-150mm f/3.5-4.5 Zuiko Lenses

Olympus Evolt E-500 News Release

OLYMPUS INTRODUCES EVOLT E-500: THE MOST FULL-FEATURED DIGITAL SLR IN ITS CLASS

The Only 100% Digital SLR to Combine Exclusive Dust Reduction System, 8-Megapixel Imaging Sensor, and a 2.5-Inch LCD in a Compact, Lightweight Body

Olympus proudly introduces the new EVOLT E-500, the most full-featured digital SLR camera in its class of sub-$1000.00 SLR cameras. Designed to be used by all photographers of any skill level, the E-500’s compact and durable body is packed with Olympus innovations like the exclusive Dust Reduction System for spot-free photos, 8 million pixels of detail for bright and colorful images, a TruePic TURBO Image Processor for fast response time, and an oversized, easy-to-view 2.5-inch HyperCrystal LCD. Compatible with a wide range of Olympus Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses, the E-500 delivers the versatility and power that are the hallmarks of a performance SLR, but at an affordable price.

Exclusive Dust Free Technology for Spot-Free Photos
Dust is all around us, and when swapping out a lens on a digital single-lens reflex camera there’s a chance that a camera’s electro-statically charged image sensor will attract micro dust that can ruin photos. Since the main advantage of using an SLR camera is the ability to change lenses for better imaging effects, Olympus has developed a way for photographers to enjoy the freedom of using all the lenses of the Olympus E-System in the most challenging, dusty environments without compromising image quality.

Olympus’ Dust Reduction System produces spot-free photos with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter, a patented ultrasonic technology that shakes at 35,000 vibrations a second to remove dust from in front of the camera sensor every time you turn the camera on. These spot-free photos liberate users from hours spent retouching photographs at the computer. The new EVOLT E-500, like all Olympus digital SLR cameras, is equipped with this exclusive user-friendly technology, and only Olympus has a solution to provide spot-free photography in a digital SLR.

Detailed, Bright and Colorful Photos with 8-Megapixel Image Sensor
The E-500 is loaded with an impressive 8 million pixels of detail, for bright colorful photos. The 8-megapixel sensor gives photographers the flexibility to blow up their prints to the large sizes supported by many of today’s printers, or crop into an image to print only part of the image that is important to them. Moreover, the image sensor in the EVOLT E-500 is a high-performance Full Frame Transfer KODAK KAF-8300CE CCD that delivers improved dynamic range, low noise to capture fine image details in the highlight and shadow areas, as well as excellent color fidelity for brilliant colors. Additionally the anti-blooming technology on each pixel and the exclusive Olympus TruePic TURBO Image Processor helps to eliminate undesirable “artifacts”, “stepping” or “jaggies”, “purple fringing” or “moiré” in an image.

TruePic TURBO for Clarity and Speed
Olympus’ TruePic TURBO Image Processor provides fast camera response, operation and processing speed for more responsive camera operation. This is done by closely integrating the image processor and hardware elements to eliminate unnecessary processing tasks, accelerating camera operations. For faster burst rates, the TruePic TURBO processor addresses the dedicated 64MB image buffer for up to 4 TIFF or RAW images at 2.5 frames-per-second, and unlimited burst mode with HQ JPEG images and extreme speed Compact Flash cards.

Along with the speed advantages, TruePic TURBO also produces crystal clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to provide you with the best digital images possible for every photo.

Large Easy-to-View 2.5-Inch HyperCyrstal LCD Monitor
Big and bright with 215,250 pixels, the E-500 has a 2.5-inch HyperCrystal LCD that offers many times the contrast of conventional LCD monitors, so captured images can be beautifully displayed in vivid color on the screen with exceptional clarity. Because photos are for sharing, the E-500 LCD features a wide, 160° viewing angle on the vertical and horizontal axis, ensuring excellent visibility and beautiful image quality even when everyone huddles around the camera to see what you’ve created. The larger LCD also means the icons and text on the camera’s menu display are enlarged for easier viewing.

The World’s Largest Selection of Digital Specific Lenses
The versatility of the Olympus E-System comes from delivering the largest selection of “Designed-for-Digital” lenses –more than any other manufacturer to date. Olympus’ Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses come in a wide range of focal lengths for achieving the best image result, and impress with their spectacular clarity and edge-to-edge sharpness.

Most other digital SLR cameras still use many traditional 35mm film lenses on digital bodies. But since those lenses are based on designs for film and not for pixels, they deliver insufficient light at the edges of a digital camera’s image sensor. This can result in reduced sharpness and color definition, particularly when shooting with large apertures and wide-angle lenses. The E-500 does not have this problem, because it accommodates the full line of interchangeable Zuiko Digital Lenses. These digital specific lenses are designed for digital capture with smart technology that allows the lenses to communicate with the camera to ensure the best possible image quality.

Olympus dedicated digital optics coupled with the EVOLT E-500 render sharpness and contrast more consistently at any given f-stop. The lenses are matched to the Four Thirds System standard image sensor for the optimal balance between image quality, camera and lens size, and expandability. With a wide array of digital specific lenses to choose from, it’s easy to select the ideal lens to bring along when you don’t want to lug a lot of heavy, bulky gear.

The E-500 outfit includes a compact, Zuiko Digital 14 – 45mm f3.5 – f5.6 Lens (equivalent to 28mm – 90mm in 35mm photography) that perfectly matches the imager so light strikes the sensor directly to ensure rich, accurate colors and edge-to-edge sharpness. Its 3.2x zoom covers the range most frequently used in ordinary photography and weighs just 10 ounces (285 grams) offering users an extremely dynamic, portable everyday-use zoom. Close-ups as near as 15 inches (38cm) are possible throughout the zoom range.

Easy-to-Use, Easy-to-Handle Light and Ergonomic Design
Creating an affordable digital SLR that most anyone can pick up and start to use is about making it easier to operate. That means menus that make sense and buttons on the body that are easy to understand and operate; adding automatic settings for every imaginable situation; making the LCD big and bright enough so you can review a shot without squinting; and making it less of a chore to get images out of the camera and into your computer or printer. Moreover, at just 5.09 inches (W) x 3.72 inches (H) x 2.59 inches (D) and only 15.3 ounces, the EVOLT E-500 is light and compact enough to comfortably shoot with all day.

You don’t need a degree in photography to shoot like a pro with the E-500. Just take it home, charge the Li-ion battery with the included charger, and begin taking photos. Instead of working to find the right settings for the subject, select from one of the camera’s 25 Exposure Modes (Easy, Basic and Creative) that make it easy to get the results you want, whenever and wherever you want them.

To access the Easy Modes, simply turn the mode dial on the top of the camera to “Scene” and choose from a range of 15 pre-programmed Scene Select modes to achieve the optimal results for: Night Scenes, Fireworks, Sunsets, Beach and Snow, Children, Landscape, and more.

Every Scene Select mode on the EVOLT E-500 provides a sample image and a description of what is happening to achieve the desired result. For example, choosing the Landscape setting reveals a sample of a landscape photo, and a text description of what the mode is displayed on the large, easy-to-read 2.5-inch LCD

To access Basic shooting modes that allow some user over-rides, just select one of the 5 icons on the mode dial (Landscape; Portrait; Night Scene-Portrait; Macro; and Action/Sports Modes).

The Creative Modes on the mode dial allow users to take control of the E-500 for the ultimate in artistic expression. For example, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual Modes allow users to tweak all of the camera’s settings just the way they want for any situation at hand.

Direct Button operation enables EVOLT E-500 users to get to the settings they want without wading through endless menus or pushing arrow buttons excessively. Instead, most custom settings can be set by pressing one of the cameras 8 direct key buttons for White Balance, Exposure Compensation, ISO, Flash Mode, Metering Mode, Auto Focus Mode, Auto Focus Frame and Recording Mode, and then turning a dial by thumb to customize the setting as desired. All settings are viewable at once on the camera’s “Super Control Panel” displayed on the LCD.

Transferring images to the computer has never been easier with the Auto-Connect USB that does not require software drivers (for most computers/operating systems) for hassle-free image downloads. Images may also be viewed on a television using the video cable.

When it comes time to print images, the E-500 connects via the included USB cable for fast and easy PC-free printing, to any PictBridge-enabled printer via USB, like the new Olympus P-11 Digital Photo Printer. Simply select the images displayed on the camera’s LCD that you wish and print.

The Flexibility of the Most Feature Rich Camera in its Class
Once one feature is mastered, there are a seemingly endless number of other features just waiting to be explored. Because the E-500 is designed for the ultimate user-friendly experience, you can choose to let the camera make all the decisions, or take control for a new level of customization and performance.

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• • 5 Metering Modes: A new 49 Point Digital ESP Light Meter enables digital electro selective pattern metering for accurate exposures under the largest number of conditions. The Digital ESP can also be linked to the AF (auto focus) selection or independent of the AF selection for even more versatility. Olympus' widely acclaimed proprietary Digital ESP metering calculates the best light values under complex lighting conditions. Center-weighted metering is biased to the center of the viewfinder (cross) area. Spot Meter (2%) enables the most accurate metering for tough lighting conditions like backlit or spot lit. Highlight Spot Meter (2%) adjusts for predominantly white subject for correct exposure with detail. Shadow Spot Meter (2%) adjusts for a black subject, providing the correct exposure with detail.
• 3 Color Modes: Vivid / Natural / Muted: Vivid mode produces photos with more highly saturated colors and higher contrast to optimize images when vivid shots are required. This is also the recommended setting when printing directly from the camera to an inkjet printer. The Natural mode produces realistic color similar to those seen by the human eye and is the perfect choice for the discerning photographer looking for the most realistic photos. The Muted mode is ideal for those users who plan to heavily manipulate or edit their images with the included OLYMPUS Master Software or with Adobe® Photoshop.
• A Choice of Two Color Space Settings: Users can choose from two color space settings according to their needs: sRGB, which is the standard for computer monitor viewing and inkjet printer output, and Adobe® RGB, which is widely used for commercial applications.
• 9 Black & White Modes: Red, Yellow, Orange, and Green filters can be selected to replicate the same traditional film filters, enhancing the drama of the image in the Black & White shooting mode. In addition to Sepia tone, the EVOLT E-500 also offers users three tone effects: Blue, Green and Purple for special results.
• 2 Red-Eye Reduction modes, on Flash and in Playback: Besides the ability to select Red-Eye reduction mode on the flash prior to taking a shot, the EVOLT E-500 also offers the ability to correct for Red-Eye in images that have already been taken while the camera is in playback mode.
• Dual Card Slots: Users also benefit from two memory card slots – one for CompactFlash or Microdrive and another for xD-Picture Cards – which add to the camera’s practicality and provide extra data storage. Simply depress a button on the back of the camera to choose which card type to capture to and copy images back and forth from one card to the other in playback.
• Support for High-Speed and High-Capacity Memory Media: The EVOLT E-500 supports 32-bit file formatting allowing the use of 2 gigabyte and larger CompactFlash, Microdrive, and xD media cards. The EVOLT E-500 also supports high-speed CF cards for faster operation in the burst mode.
• AF: The E-500 dedicated auto focus system offers 3 selectable AF points for accurate auto focus operation. When automatic target zone selection is active, a superimposed display confirms the relevant target zone. Focus modes are set via a manual switch on the camera body for Single AF, Continuous AF, and Manual Focus operation. To ensure successful focusing in the darkest environments, the E-500 utilizes an AF illuminator built into the flash.
• Simultaneous RAW and JPEG Image Recording: A choice of three image formats is offered: RAW, TIFF, and JPEG. If desired, image data can be simultaneously recorded in RAW and JPEG with the RAW+JPEG format.
• Contrast, Sharpness and Tone Curve Controls: Contrast can be set to any of five levels, and sharpness can be set to any of seven levels. So whether users want pro-quality tonal fidelity or sharp vibrant colors, they can customize each image to suit their preference.
• White Balance: White balance settings from 3000K to 7000K can be set in 12 steps using button and dial controls, with ±7-step fine-tuning available for all settings. A one-touch white balance function allows users to store and retrieve up to four frequently used white balance settings at the touch of a button. By initially reading the light separately for the CCD, the camera can see a dramatic increase in speed without loss of accuracy.
• Noise Reduction: The noise reduction function uses a proprietary Olympus algorithm to detect and eliminate the fixed noise that can appear on long-exposure images.
• High-Precision Flash Control: The flash can be turned ON and OFF manually or with the AUTO FLASH option selected the flash will pop up automatically when ever it is needed. A wide range of flash modes is provided, including Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Slow Synchro (front and rear curtain), and Fill-In.
• RGB Histogram Information Display: The EVOLT E-500 will display an individual histogram for each color channel (RGB) as well as the overall luminance of the exposure. This information is valuable to the more advanced user who may need to alter the exposure for specific output sources. A display that identifies overexposed highlights or underexposed shadow areas is also an option in image playback mode.
• Self-timer and Remote Control: The built-in self-timer offers a choice of 12-second or 2-second delay. An optional RM-1 remote control unit is available and can be used with the 2-second delay setting or for immediate shutter release, as well as to control “bulb” shutter openings for longer exposures.

Availability
The Olympus EVOLT E-500 Digital SLR will be available in October 2005. It includes: EVOLT E-500 Body with 14-45mm f3.5/5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens, USB Cable, Video Cable, Li-Ion Battery Pack (BLM-1), Li-Ion Battery Charger (BCM-2), Shoulder Strap, OLYMPUS Master Software CD-ROM, Manuals, Warranty card.

US Pricing
EVOLT E-500 with 14-45mm f3.5/5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens Estimated Street Price: $799.99
EVOLT E-500 TWO Lens Outfit; 14-45mm f3.5/5.6 and 40-150mm f3.5/4.5 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens Estimated Street Price $899.99

Olympus Evolt E-500 Reviews

Imaging Resource has a hands on first impression review of the new Olympus Evolt E-500 and writes - 'I really like the Olympus E-500. It's comfortable to hold, handsome, and seems to work quite well. It has almost all the features I'd look for in a digital SLR, including a high enough resolution to stave off any feeling of obsolescence for the next year or so, and a number of modes to assist and enhance a user's photography as they learn (or re-learn) the craft. No other manufacturer offers a sensor that cleans itself every time you power it on, and few digital SLR currently on the market have a screen this big and beautiful.'

Steves Digicams also has a first look review of the Olympus Evolt E500 where they write - 'The Olympus EVOLT E-500 is a full-featured, 8-megapixel digital SLR camera that was designed to be used easily by photographers of any skill level. The E-500 is compact (approx. 5 x 3.7 x 2.6 inches), lightweight (15.3 oz.), durable and packed with Olympus innovations like an exclusive Dust Reduction System for spot-free photos, a TruePic TURBO Image Processor for fast response time, and a large 2.5-inch HyperCrystal LCD. Compatible with a wide range of Olympus Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses, the E-500 delivers the versatility and power that are the hallmarks of a performance SLR, but at an affordable $799USD price.'

DP Review has reviewed the Olympus E-500 EVOLT (they give it a 'highly recommended rating) and write - 'Dive into the E-500s menus and you soon realize this camera offers far more from a features point of view than the competition, you just don't find features like this on a $699 camera; manual flash power, flash bracketing, manual focus bracketing, test picture, customizable buttons and dial, custom mirror-lockup, in-camera RAW development, lens shading correction. So despite some shortcomings, and assuming you can forgive the small viewfinder view you'll be hard pushed to argue with the 'value proposition' the E-500 represents. As a bonus you can always put some of the savings towards one of the excellent Olympus E system lenses (of which there are now considerably more to choose from).'

Wrotniak reviews the Olympus E-500 and writes - 'The E-500 is a clear winner. It inherits at least the image quality of its predecessor, the underrated E-300, delivering it in a smaller, nicely made package, with very wide range of adjustments, georgeous monitor, and ergonomics ranging from good to excellent. I'm going to keep it.'

DCRP reviews the Olympus EVOLT E-500 and writes - 'The EVOLT E-500 is a "regular size" digital SLR that uses Olympus' FourThirds system. Olympus has built up a nice collection of Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses, though the 2X focal length conversion ratio is higher than what you'll find on other D-SLRs. The E-500 thankfully sheds the rather grotesque design of the E-300, and the body is well built and easy to hold. On the back of the camera you'll find a large 2.5" LCD display which I found to be very easy to see outdoors. When shooting the LCD displays all kinds of camera settings, which can be changed at the push of a button. A hot shoe can be found on the top of the camera for addition flash options. The E-500 has dual memory cards slots, supporting both xD and CompactFlash Type II media.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Olympus EVOLT E-500 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Olympus E-500's combination of very extensive Scene modes with full-featured exposure and creative control suit it to situations where both novice and experienced shooters need to share the same camera. While easy enough for pure novices to use in its fully automatic "green zone" mode, the E-500's more advanced exposure options will also be appealing to more experienced digital photographers, as it's arguably the most configurable camera anywhere close to its price class.'

PC Magazine reviews the Olympus Evolt E-500 and writes - 'We also found that the controls are not as nicely laid out as they are on the Nikon D-50. While the D-50 has a top display screen for exposure info, the same info on the E-500 appears on the LCD panel. Such controls may be fine for those using point-and-shoot cameras, but D-SLR fans prefer info to appear as it does on the D-50. The Evolt E-500 has lots of options in its playback mode, including the ability to jump ten images back or forward. But it would be nice to have the Canon Rebel's 100-picture jump feature, especially with the large GB memory cards now available.... To sum up, the Olympus Evolt E-500 is a full-featured D-SLR that offers lots of options for novices, prosumers, and even pros. It's a worthy alternative to the Nikon D50, our current Editor's Choice, and the Canon Rebel XT, but not quite good enough to replace them.'

CNET has a review of the Olympus Evolt E-500 where they give it a rating of 7.4 out of 10 (Very Good) and write - 'A well-designed compact 8-megapixel digital SLR camera, the Olympus Evolt E-500 offers a notably broad set of features for its class, including Olympus's signature dust-reduction system. Every time you turn on the E-500, its supersonic wave filter vibrates 35,000 times per second to shimmy dust off the CCD. With more fine-tuning tools than you might expect for the price, not to mention compatibility with Olympus's sharp Zuiko Digital lenses, this affordable model offers an appealing alternative to competitors such as the Nikon D50, the Canon EOS Rebel XT, and the Pentax *ist DL.'

Megapixel reviews the Olympus E-500 and writes - 'When left to its default settings, the E-500 produces images that have accurate, but muted colours. For those who prefer more vibrant colours, the Picture Mode option can be set to Vivid, boosting colour saturation to levels that are similar to what other dSLR cameras produce. The lenses included in the kit version of the E-500, both Zuiko Digital lenses, one a 14-45 mm f3.5/5.6, the other a 40-150 mm f3.5/4.5, turn out to be excellent value. The 14-45 mm, which is equivalent to a 28-90 mm lens on a 35 mm camera, includes 2 aspherical elements, and as a result the lens has minimal barrel distortion at the wide angle end, no pincushion at the telephoto end, and is entirely free of chromatic aberration throughout its focal length range.'

Camera Labs reviews the Olympus E-500 / EVOLT E-500 and writes - 'The Olympus E-500 is a mixed bag with plenty of things going for it, but equally a number of aspects which could be considered deal-breakers by some photographers. Highlights of course include the SSWF anti-dust system, an impressively high level of information and control for a budget body, along with an increasing number of high quality lenses - check back in the future for full reviews of four Zuiko Digital models including the impressive 7-14mm ultra wide angle zoom.'

Lets Go Digital has posted a review of the Olympus E-500 where they give it a rating of 5 stars and write - 'Overall, I can only conclude that with the E-500 Olympus has introduced a very strong product. For its price-range, it offers the user a remarkable amount of options: plenty of special functions, fantastic image quality and an ergonomically very well thought out design. Naturally, it has a few minor flaws but in my opinion it is one of the best cameras, if not the very best, in its class. Truly recommended!'

Pocket Lint reviews the Olympus E-500 D-SLR and writes - 'The E-500 is so packed with kit there�s not room to go over it all here, suffice to say this is as comprehensively specified D-SLR as you�re likely to want (or need). At �600 for the standard kit that includes the 14-45mm lens used in the test, it�s great value and with independent lens makers such as Sigma backing the FourThirds standard, it looks set to grow and grow. In short, if you�re looking for a compact, lightweight D-SLR that packs a punch in almost all departments, then you would do far worse than stopping your search right here.'

Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Olympus E-500 where they write - 'The E-500 should secure Olympus a place on the lucrative consumer D-SLR shelf alongside the Nikon D50, Canon EOS 350D and Pentax *ist DL. It is a very well designed camera, combining excellent picture quality, outstanding performance and lots of creative versatility, while still maintaining beginner-friendly simplicity and easy handling. It is a genuine pleasure to use, and produces superb results. If you�re looking for a good SLR for under �600 with a lens, then it should definitely be on your shortlist.'

MobileTechReview reviews the Olympus EVOLT E-500 and writes, "For an entry level digital SLR, the EVOLT E-500 sports a few high end features such as exposure bracketing, white balance bracketing and ISO that goes all the way down to 100 (Nikon and Pentax low models and even the D70s only go down to 200) up to 400 in auto or 1600 in manual. You can set ISO in 1/3EV increments and set metering to Digital ESP (full frame evaluation), center weighted or spot (some Canon's have been missing spot). Metering was very good in our tests and it only failed us on some of the most challenging shots (contrasty and backlit scenes). But for a camera in this price range, it did a good job. ... Good times for dSLR shoppers. It's really hard to go wrong with any of the intro offerings from Olympus, Canon, Nikon or Pentax. The EVOLT E-500 does give a lot of bang for the buck, especially if you go with the 2 lens bundle. It has some of the most user-friendly controls we've seen, that won't scare the pants off of point and shoot folks, feels good in the hand, looks and feels well made and it takes very good photos. The feature set is more advanced that we'd expect from a camera in this price range, which is appealing for more serious photographers and gives novices room to grow. Photos do have a somewhat more "computer-ish" look than the more natural photos from the Nikon D70 and Rebel XT thanks to the camera's image processing algorithms which favor strong contrast and very saturated colors. Those accustomed to digital cameras (the non-SLR variety) won't notice this, and there are a lot of folks who love the vivid and sharp look of processed images over a more film-like" look."

BlogCritics has a review of the Olympus EVOLT E-500 DSLR and writes, "Overall, the E-500 is a solid DSLR. It's sturdy, has a good grip, it's got good battery life, and the image quality is great. I like the 4:3 aspect of the photos, and I like the fact that the lenses and body are interchangeable with other brands, although currently only Olympus, Panasonic and Leica make DSLRs and lenses based on the standard. That's about five camera backs altogether, at widely varying prices, so there's not a whole lot of choice, although that could change in the future. The sensor's performance in low light is not up to my expectations, and that could or could not be related to the four-thirds standard. Time will tell. I think that it's a bargain for its class. ... Bottom line: if I weren't so bent on being able to use it in low light situations, I'd get one myself."

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Sep 26: Canon Powershot SD550 Digital ELPH Review - Steves Digicams

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. '

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Sep 26: Olympus Stylus 800 Review - Digicam Review

DigiCam Review has reviewed the Olympus Mju Digital 800/Stylus 800 and writes - 'The 8 megapixel Olympus Mju Digital 800 is a very good all round digital camera, it's large clear 2.5“ screen, compact all-weather body and high resolution will appeal to many. The easy to use camera is capable of very good results. The camera gives you a lot of options, scene modes, aperture / shutter priority, etc, and would be suited to all levels. The ”Anti-Shake“ mode is good, but the quality of picture limits the print size. The super macro mode is very good. The camera is good value for money for a weatherproof compact 8 megapixel camera at around £279 | $409 . I would quite happily recommend this camera to someone looking for a compact, weatherproof, high resolution digital camera, with speedy operation, a clear high resolution screen, manual controls, and excellent low-light performance in both focusing and screen visibility. Have a look at the sample photos and see what you think of them. I can imagine a lot of people being happy with this camera thanks to Olympus addressing some of the major problems with digital cameras such as slow focusing time / shutter response, poor low-light performance, and poor screen visibility.'

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Sep 26: Comparing Canon EOS 5D and Canon EOS 20D

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.'

Read more about the Canon EOS 5D and Canon EOS 20D.

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Sep 25: Pentax Optio S45 and S55 Review - DigiCamReview.co.uk

DigiCam Reivew has reviewed the Pentax Optio S45 and S55 and writes - 'The Pentax Optio S45 and S55 are both good all round digital cameras - easy to fit into pockets, full of features to suit all level of photographer. The cameras take AA batteries, and have a metal body so would make a great travel camera. The easy to use camera is capable of good results, although there is some purple fringing and images are slightly soft. The super macro mode is good. Both cameras are very good value for money at around £110 for the S45, and £165 for the S55. I would recommend this camera to someone looking for a versatile, highly pocketable digital camera. If you were to choose between the two, my preference would be towards the 4 megapixel Optio S45 which will produce photos capable of being printed at upto A4 and offers excellent value for money - for slightly more detail then I'd recommend the Optio S55.'

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Sep 25: More Nikon D200 Pictures

A member of the DP Review Forums has posted a couple of pictures of the Nikon D200 DSLR (or thats what they think they're of.

The quality of the pictures is pretty poor but most people I've heard comment about them say it looks like the real deal - but only time will tell if this is the Nikon D200 or not.

Get a price on the Nikon D200 from Amazon and compare prices on the Nikon D200 from around the web.

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Sep 25: Digital Camera Resolution versus Film Scanner Resolution

Earthbound Light has a good tips article on Digital Camera Resolution versus Film Scanner Resolution

'Digital cameras create digital images composed of lots of tiny pixels. So do film scanners by digitizing your existing slides or negatives. A good digital camera will create images between 6 and 12 megapixels while a good scanner can easily produce files with more than 20 megapixels. So does this difference have any bearing on which is better?

The answer may not be quite what it seems at first glance....'

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Sep 25: Poor Man's Image Stabilization - Digital Photography Tip

Today's Digital Photography Tips has been submitted by Darren Collins from One Stop Under:

Here’s a neat tip for digital photographers trying to shoot at slow shutter speeds without image-stabilized (IS or VR) lenses. Actually, it can even be helpful for those using IS/VR lenses when you’re really pushing the limits of hand-holdability.

Set your camera to burst mode, frame your subject, brace yourself as firmly as you can, and squeeze the shutter button gently. Hold it down so that you fire off a burst of about 3-5 images. Odds are, once you get back to your computer and examine the images, there’ll be one image that’s considerably sharper than the rest. Delete the duds, and keep this good one!

The downside is obvious - you’ll use up a lot more space on your memory cards.

If you’re shooting in JPG mode and want a quick way to tell which image is the sharpest, just look at the file sizes. The one with the largest file size is nearly always the sharpest shot. This is because the JPG algorithm tries to preserve detail - the sharper your image, the more fine detail is present, and the less the JPG algorithm is able to compress the image. Incidentally, this is why high-ISO JPGs are larger than low-ISO JPGs of the same scene - the higher noise in the high-ISO image adds lots of fine detail, so the image can’t be compressed as much.

Of course, just like real IS/VR this technique only helps with correcting for camera shake. A moving subject and a slow shutter speed will still result in motion blur in the image.

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Darren Collins runs One Stop Under, a photography blog geared towards the interests of advanced amateur and

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Sep 25: Canon EOS 5D Review - Luminous Landscape

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.'

Read more about the Canon EOS 5D

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Sep 25: Casio Exilim EX-P505 Review - Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info has a review of the Casio Exilim EX-P505 Digital Camera and write - 'The Casio Exilim EX-P505 is the Swiss Army knife of digital cameras; it tries to impress every segment of the market there is. It can impress point-and-shoot users with its automatic and extremely comprehensive list of best shot scene modes. The P505 also has manual functionality for those more advanced photographers. For those camcorder enthusiasts, there are four movie modes that shoot at full VGA resolution at 30 frames per second. The EX-P505 attracts kids with its extensive sound menu and toy-like size and feel. This Exilim aims to be a hybrid model with its camcorder-style LCD screen that rotates and its 5 megapixels of still imaging resolution. '

Read more about the Casio Exilim EX-P505

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Sep 25: Nikon D70s DSLR Review - Bytesector

Byte Sector has a review of the Nikon D70s DSLR and writes - 'Overall, I had a really great time working with the Nikon D70s. The camera is incredibly versatile and has more advanced features than most other DSLR cameras in its price range. Granted, the fact that it only has a 6MP CCD is a major limiting factor when you consider that the Canon Digital Rebel XT has an 8MP sensor, has similar if just slightly less advanced features, takes pictures almost as well, and is about $300 CAD cheaper. Even the Olympus E300 offers an 8MP CCD as well as two lenses for the same price as the Rebel XT.'

Read more reviews of the Nikon D70s

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Sep 25: Ricoh GR Digital Review - LetsGoDigital

Lets Go Digital has a preview/review of the Ricoh GR Digital in which they write - 'The Ricoh GR Digital is convenient to use. I just have to repeat myself telling you that handling a digital camera like the GR Digital with its wide 28mm fixed lens and the optional 21mm conversion lens gives it something extra. Today's cameras are almost all equipped with optical zoom, from 2.4x to 12x optical zoom ranges. I have noticed this before; using a camera with optical zoom will not encourage you to become part of the action. It does not invite you to come out of your chair and be part of the composition. Using the Ricoh GR Digital around Amsterdam in combination with the conversion lens (21mm, equiv. 35mm format camera) resulted in some great shots around the Van Gogh museum and the Amsterdam Concert Building... Although pre-production status I am impressed with the sharpness, the contrast and the lack of vignetting/distortion of the GR lens!'

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Sep 23: Panasonic DMC-FZ30 First Impressions Review - The Gadgets Page

Michael at the Gadgets Page reviews the Panasonic DMC-FZ30 and writes - 'Last but not least, it takes great pictures. Some reviews have complained about noise, but the pictures have less noise than equivalent pictures taken with my Nikon 5700, and noise has never caused me any trouble. I’ve been surprised how many pictures come out looking good, especially considering I’m taking handheld shots at 12X zoom.'

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Sep 23: Ulead PhotoImpact 11

Ulead Introduces New Version of PhotoImpact Image Editing Software.

PhotoImpact 11 answers the needs of professional photographers while providing new interface modes that make it simple for beginners

Ulead Systems, Inc., a 16-year industry leader in video, image and DVD software, today announced the release of Ulead PhotoImpact 11, Ulead’s flagship PC image-editing software offering easy-to-use tools for a wide range of personal and professional image and photo-editing needs. The latest version introduces an all-new interface system providing distinct modes for beginners and advanced users along with 16-bit editing/RAW support and next-generation tools for high-end digital photography and creative design.

“People getting started with digital photography don’t need complexity, at the same time experienced users demand flexibility and control,” said Mark Wurdemann, UK Marketing Manager for Ulead, “With PhotoImpact 11’s new My Workspace modes and customizable interface, users of all levels will find the perfect set of tools for their needs and experience. We hope people will find PhotoImpact 11’s Basic Photo Mode akin to a welcome mat at the doorstep of digital photography.”

Ulead PhotoImact 11 Features and Benefits:

Flexible Interface System.
The “My Workspace” interface system offers a set of five pre-defined modes along with the ability to customize and save personal workspace layouts. Basic Photo Mode is the simplest of the ready-to-use modes, providing large easy-to-identify icons with direct access to the most commonly used tools for acquiring, browsing, enhancing and sharing images. Specially configured menus, toolbars and fewer option panels simplify the user interface for new and casual users. They can choose between Basic Photo Mode, Standard Photo Mode, Graphics Mode, Web Mode and Advanced Mode.

My Workspace customization options allow users to configure the interface to their individual needs. Menus and toolbars can be re-organized with drag-and-drop ease. All panels may by docked or float freely for comfortable use across dual monitors. Shortcut keys and Menu and Command names are also fully customizable.

Unique High-End Digital Photography Tools.
PhotoImpact 11 offers photography enthusiasts features that make the camera just the beginning for high-end digital photography. New RAW/DNG support allows users to capture full camera-image quality. Ulead Photo Explorer 8.6, included with PhotoImpact 11, provides intuitive browsing and batch conversion of RAW files. Enhanced 16-bit editing allows for a range of automatic and manual processing tools to adjust color and correct images in high-quality 48-bit color depth.

Powerful new SmartCurves dramatically simplifies photo-tone enhancement with automatic correction of camera response curve anomalies. Based on Ulead’s advanced HDR imaging technology, SmartCurves gives users high-quality tonal correction tailored for their camera.

For perfect photo compositions, revolutionary new SmartRemove Scene Compositor lets users selectively paint out moving elements from multiple shots of the same scene to compose an image with just the elements they want. In addition to removing unwanted elements, SmartRemove also makes it possible to create dramatic original photos by combining shots with people or objects appearing in different poses or locations.

PhotoImpact 11 new high-end photography tools include White Balance adjustment and Chromatic Aberration correction. The High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Color Cast tools have also been improved.

Enhanced Creative Options:
New to PhotoImpact 11 are non-destructive Layer Masks, editable alpha-channel masks for objects. Layer Masks allow users to blend images and objects in creative compositions with even greater flexibility.

With more and more users creating video projects and authoring DVDs for personal, business or education applications, PhotoImpact now incorporates features specifically designed for video productions. The Web Component Designer, first introduced in PhotoImpact 5, now includes a range of customizable lower-third graphics that make creating compelling overlay graphics simple and fast. A new “Save for Video” option simplifies the process of saving graphics for video projects.

The EasyPalette library of ready-to-use content now includes a range of DVD menu templates that can be customized and saved for use in Ulead DVD MovieFactory or Ulead DVD Workshop. Both products allow users to import menus using PhotoImpact’s native UFO file format. Ulead’s high-end video-editing suite, MediaStudio Pro 8, supports UFO files directly on the timeline.

PhotoImpact 11 also includes a “Save for Mobile” option to enable users to easily create graphics for display on mobile phones, PDAs, the Sony PSP and other mobile devices. Save for Mobile incorporates a range of intelligent templates to automatically format images to the correct size, color depth, file format and file size for a chosen device.

Pricing and Availability:
The box version and electronic download (ESD) of PhotoImpact 11 will be available via the Ulead website at http://www.ulead.co.uk for £49.99 inc Vat at the beginning of October. The boxed version will also be available from PC World, Staples, Jessops, Microwarehouse, Dabs.co, Saversoftware and Amazon.co.uk. An upgrade edition will be offered for owners of previous versions from the Ulead online Store and selected e-tailers starting at just £29.99 inc Vat for the ESD download.'

Source: Ulead Press Release

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Sep 23: Nikon D50 Review - Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info reviews the Nikon D50 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Nikon D50 is a bridge camera, meant to snag users who are on the fence, deciding between a high-end “SLR-like” camera and a low-end DSLR. Here's the case for the D50: it has a larger sensor than most “SLR-like” cameras, leading to richer images with more dynamic range and less noise. This will surely provide a much better 6 megapixel image than you would get from a smaller sensor. The camera contains a deep set of manual controls that are easily accessible and well organized. Nikon also included a full set of image parameters and selectable color modes to expand image control in-camera.'

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Sep 23: Secret Nikon D70 Features

Digital Camera Tracker has an interesting post on 10 Secret Nikon D70 Features which picks up on an article in Popular Photography's latest edition that highlights the N70's 'secrets'. Here are the first three:

'1. Centerweighted Tip: Custom setting 11 in the menu lets you select 6, 8, 10, or 12mm for center weighted metering.

2. Hollow Battery: Hey, the hollow tube sitting in the D70 is not a fake battery. It's a battery holder that accepts three CR2 lithium cells, and then fits into the camera's standard battery compartment.

3. Now you see them - now you don't grids: Clearly one of Popular Photography magazines favorite features is the on-demand grid lines. You can activate grid lines in setting 8, Grid Display.'

Read more about the Nikon D70

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Sep 23: Epson P-4000 Photo Viewer

The Epson P-4000 Photo Viewer is an 80 gigabyte version of the previously released Epson P-2000 Photo viewer.

It has an updated battery and now plays MP3/ACC and MPEG4 files.

the P-4000 accepts Type II CF and SD cards and has USB 2.0 connectivity.

Epson Japan announced that it will sell for 70,000 Yen (around $640 USD or around $820 AUD) and should hit stores in Japan in October of 2005.

Epson P-4000 Photo Viewer News Release

The Epson(R) P-4000 Multimedia Storage Viewer Offers 80GB Hard Drive for Storing, Sharing and Viewing Thousands of Photos Latest Multimedia Storage Viewer from Epson Provides High Capacity Hard Drive and Beautiful 3.8" LCD with Epson Photo Fine(TM) Technology for Brilliant Color and Incredible Detail Epson is introducing its newest product in the Multimedia Storage Viewer category, the Epson P-4000. Epson is continuing to develop products that meet the changing needs of today's digital photographer. The Epson P-4000 Multimedia Storage Viewer has many of the same features and strengths of the popular Epson P-2000, but now offers double the hard drive capacity with 80GB* for storing and sharing an even larger number of photos along with video and music files. The Epson P-4000 is the perfect portable companion to any digital camera with its built-in card slots, high storage capacity and Epson's exclusive and highly-regarded large 3.8" LCD with Epson Photo Fine technology for the ultimate in color, detail and clarity. "There are many products available today for storing and viewing files and images, but there is no comparison when it comes to the quality and clarity of the Epson P-4000's screen," said Jennifer Burl, product manager, Epson. "With Epson Photo Fine technology, fast downloads and an even larger storage capacity, this handheld product offers the ultimate in portable freedom for photographers, professionals, photo enthusiasts, and families alike. The P-4000 enables anyone to share photos without the worry of storage limitations or sacrifices to viewing quality, whether at home, at work, on vacation, or in the field." More about Epson Photo Fine Technology The Epson P-4000 and the Epson P-2000 both offer Epson's exclusive Photo Fine technology, which utilizes two core techniques-ultra fine precision processing and the capability to deliver three colors (red, green and blue) per pixel. Additionally, this unique technology provides an incredible pixel density of 212 pixels per inch, which ensures that every detail of downloaded images is displayed with vibrancy and clarity. Typical digital camera viewing panels and competitive viewer products only offer one color per pixel and approximately 80-100 pixels per inch. Engineered with precision manufacturing, Epson Photo Fine enables the LCD to display images with brilliant color and exquisite detail for remarkable image quality. This level of detail is vital for customers who want to zoom in, inspect and view photos more closely. More about the Epson P-4000 Multimedia Storage Viewer The Epson P-4000 is the third Multimedia Storage Viewing product introduction from Epson and addresses the customer's need for increased storage capacity. It is equipped with an 80GB hard drive for storing over 75,000 images, over 25,000 songs or about 90 to 300 hours of video.** It supports JPEG image files as well as RAW files (on select digital SLR cameras), MPEG-4 and Motion JPEG video files and MP3 and AAC audio files. This product is also designed with a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interface for easily and quickly transferring these files to and from a computer. With its large storage capacity, the customer can copy files to the Epson P-4000 from the memory card and clear the memory card immediately to begin taking more pictures. When all of the images have been downloaded to the multimedia storage viewer from the memory card, the viewer can then be connected to a computer to back up the images to ensure they are saved. With its built-in memory card slots, the Epson P-4000 is compatible with most digital camera memory types. It offers native support for CompactFlash Type I and II and Secure Digital memory cards and supports additional cards with an optional third-party adapter (sold separately). Organizing and Sharing Files with the Epson P-4000 The Epson P-4000 features an intuitive menu that makes it simple to create albums to categorize and group files, so they can be quickly accessed and viewed. Customers can also create a slideshow set to music for a fun and creative way to view and share images. For sharing images on an even bigger screen, the P-4000 Multimedia Storage Viewer has a video interface-NTSC or PAL-that can connect directly to a television, monitor or projector with an optional third party video cable. The Epson P-4000 is both Windows(R) and Macintosh(R) compatible and is also equipped with the ability to print directly to select Epson printers. Batteries and Accessories This product is a lightweight, battery-powered device that is easy to travel with and comes with one lithium ion battery and charger/AC adapter, which when fully charged will support about three hours of continuous slide show viewing, or over two hours of continuous downloading from a memory card. Also included is a Hi-Speed USB 2.0/1.1 cable, a stand for either viewing slideshows with others or simply just keeping the unit securely in place, a carrying case for added protection, and a wrist strap. Pricing and Availability The Epson P-4000 is currently available through authorized dealers, mail order, photo specialty stores, select retail outlets, distribution, select retail Web sites and on the Epson retail Web site (www.epsonstore.com) for a price of $699. The product carries a one-year limited warranty and is supported by the EPSON Connection(SM), a customer support and technical assistance line. For more information on Epson and its products, call 1-800-GO-EPSON (1-800-463-7766) or visit the company's Web site at www.epson.com . * 73.8GB available storage, 6.2GB for system requirements ** Maximum capacity can vary depending on the file type and size. These numbers were based on an average of 1MB per image, 3MB per song at 1MB per minute and video bit rates of 1.5 Mbps with an audio bit rate of 500 Kbps with an audio bit rate of 64 Kpbs.

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Sep 22: ImageLink Compatible Cameras and Printers Hit the Market

New Products from Kodak and Olympus Support the IMAGELINK Print System; Others Expected Over the Next Year

One year after the announcement of Kodak products integrating the IMAGELINK print system — a specification designed to simplify at-home picture printing — new compatible cameras and printers supporting the standard are being released.

Kodak first released IMAGELINK compatible digital products over 12 months ago – incorporating the standard into six of the brands products to date. Joining Kodak’s array of compatible EasyShare digital cameras and the printer dock series 3, Olympus has announced the Camedia C315 zoom digital camera, the D555 zoom digital camera and ILP-100 printer dock which are all IMAGELINK compatible.

“Since Kodak introduced the IMAGELINK print system last September, some of the world’s largest consumer digital photography companies are taking Kodak’s lead in introducing their own compatible products,” said Yusuke Kojima, vice president, Eastman Kodak Company; and president, Kodak Japan Ltd. “Now with the first products hitting the market we expect the coming months to show growth of IMAGELINK integration across the industry. People can begin to experience the greater ease of use and higher satisfaction that this system provides.”

“The IMAGELINK print system is one of the world’s most important digital photography advancements for consumers and we at Olympus are very pleased to be among the first to introduce products compatible with this system,” said Mr. Bang Il Seok, director, Marketing Division Manager of Olympus Imaging Corp.

Millions of consumer digital cameras from Eastman Kodak Company, Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc., Nikon Corporation, Olympus Corporation, Pentax Corporation, Ricoh Co., Ltd. and Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. will provide effortless, one-touch picture printing from snapshot printers that incorporate the IMAGELINK print system, including new Kodak EasyShare printer docks.

A consumer web site dedicated to the IMAGELINK print system went live earlier this year. The site – www.imagelinkprintsystem.com – includes links to compatible digital camera and printer information, an animated presentation to help people visualise the camera-printer connection, frequently asked questions and news related to the specification.

Source: Kodak Australia News Release

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Sep 22: Understanding SD flash memory card speeds

Are you confused about which flash memory card is for you? the Gadgets Page has a useful tutorial on Understanding SD flash memory card speeds which might just clear up some of your SD Card questions:

'SD (secure digital) cards are becoming increasingly popular for digital camera storage. They’re tiny, convenient, and getting affordable in sizes as large as 1GB and 2GB. But they come in a bewildering array of different speeds and prices, even within one manufacturer’s line. What’s with the different card speeds, and which one do you need for your camera? This article gives you the details....'

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Sep 22: Maria Sharapova teams up with Canon

The Gadget blog has news that Maria Sharapova has become the new face of Canon.

They've dedicated a whole page/campaign to her here where she promotes the Powershot range.

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Sep 22: Shooting Macro Pictures with Your Digital Camera

About.com has some basic macro photography tips for Digital camera users - here's a couple:

'- Try shooting from different angles. If you’re looking for deep saturation of the colors, use front lighting. If you’d like to bring out the texture of your subject, side lighting is the way to go.

- due to the narrow depth of field, the background will usually be thrown completely out of focus, which allows the natural background to be nice backdrop,. Just make sure you don’t have anything distracting in the back that’s recognizable (branches, cigarette butts, etc.).'

If you're looking for more Macro tips you might also want to check out this compilation of Macro Photography Tips that we assembled last year at Macro Digital Photography.

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Sep 22: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 Review - CNET Reviews

CNET Reivews has a review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 and gives it a very good rating of 7.6 out of 10. They write - 'Aside from its 8-megapixel resolution, the compact Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 justifies its premium price with a tasty array of too-cool-for-school features, including world's first incorporation of a 16:9 CCD imager, a crisp 4X Leica zoom lens that starts at a commendably wide 28mm, and a nimble optical stabilization system that steadies your camera reliably at slow shutter speeds. It also has an enthusiast-friendly collection of features such as full manual control over focus and exposure, robust burst modes, and both TIFF and raw file formats.'

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Sep 22: Tokina AT-X 100 PRO D Lens

The Tokina AT-X 100 PRO D is a new macro lens capable of life-sized (1:1) reproduction at 11.8 in. (30 cm). The lens’ multi-coating have been re-engineered to match the highly reflective silicon based CCD and CMOS sensors in today’s digital SLR cameras. This lens gives the best of both worlds because optics still give full coverage and excellent sharpness on 35mm film. A macro lens that can handle both the digital and film worlds with ease.

The AT-X 100 PRO D also has a very convenient focus limiter switch that can lock the focus out of the closes focus making it focus faster when used as a moderate telephoto lens that is excellent portraits as well.

Other features of the AT-X 100 PRO D are:
Tokina One Touch Focus Clutch Mechanism for fast easy switching between manual and Auto focus.
55mm non-rotating filter thread for use with macro ring flashes and special effects filters.
The AT-X 100 PRO D also comes with a deep bayonet mounted lens hood.

Tokina AT-X 100 Pro D Specifications

• Mount availability: Canon and Nikon
• Zoom Range: 100mm
• Maximum Aperture: F/2.8
• Minimum Aperture: F/32
• Optical Construction: 9 Elements / 8Groups
• Minimum Focus Distance: 11.8 in. (30cm)
• Macro Ratio: 1:1
• Focus Limiter 1.28 to infinity
• Number of Diaphragm Blades: 9
• Filter Size: 55mm
• Dimensions: 2.9 in. (73mm) X L 3.74 in. (95.1mm)
• Weight: 19.0 oz. (540g)
• Included Accessories: Dedicated Lens Hood

Source: Tokina New Release

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Sep 21: Konica Minolta Dimage X1 Review - Trusted Reviews

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Konica Minolta Dimage X1 who write - 'The Dimage X1 is a camera for those who appreciate style and innovation and are prepared to pay a premium to get it, especially if they don’t want to be bothered by a lot of technical details but still want good picture quality. It is compact, very easy on the eye, and the anti-shake system and 8MP CCD ensure good results under most normal circumstances. Problems with low-light focusing may limit its usefulness as a party camera, but other than that it performs very well.'

Read more about the Konica Minolta Dimage X1

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Sep 21: Lexar Professional LockTight CompactFlash Offers Card Level Protection to Security-Conscious Photographers

Industry Experts Agree That Restricted Access to Stored Images and Information is Vital in the Growing Digital Camera Market

Lexar Media, a world leader in advanced digital media technologies, announced its LockTight CompactFlash security system is an essential solution for digital photographers who want to protect their stored digital images and information. Photographers working in highly sensitive and vulnerable areas who require added security can leverage the LockTight system for card level security designed to limit unauthorized access to data and material stored on the card.

The combination of a CompactFlash card and Lexar’s custom LockTight software creates a secure solution ideal for photographers in fields such as forensic photography, scientific research, military and law enforcement. When used in conjunction with a camera that supports the LockTight system, access to the digital content stored on a LockTight card is restricted to authorized users and authorized cameras through card level, 160 bit authentication. Once the card has been registered to users and cameras, it will only work in those specific cameras and can only be accessed on a PC or MAC by those users with the login information established by the system administrator. A Lexar Professional CompactFlash Reader completes the security solution, as only the user’s registered cameras and Professional CompactFlash Readers can recognize a secured LockTight card. LockTight cards that are not secured operate as normal cards.

Dean Macinskas, a well-respected security industry analyst from Digital Devices, Inc., recently evaluated Lexar’s LockTight with positive results.

“The LockTight card security system provides users with a high degree of security for all stored digital files and associated information,” said Macinskas. “This system is indeed ground-breaking as it utilizes both the card and camera to secure all stored content. It’s distinctive, highly effective and it will likely have a high level of traction among digital photographers.”

Nikon’s D2X and D2Hs digital cameras currently support LockTight.

“The D2X and the D2Hs are for the professional who requires a very high degree of functionality, precision and high-speed, all critical to photographers working in high security functions,” said Kazuyuki Kazami, General Manager of Marketing, Nikon Corporation. “LockTight provides Nikon customers with a security system, a unique and valuable feature in SLR cameras available today.”

Leading imaging and security industry analysts also agree that the LockTight system is a transformational concept that will be a major asset to photographers working in secure fields. “Nikon’s new cameras exemplify the high level of product innovation that is contributing to the rapid and consistent growth of the digital SLR category,” said Chris Chute, senior imaging analyst, IDC. “Beyond the obvious users who will certainly benefit from keeping their digital images safe, the security of personal photos has always been a major concern for many photographers, and this solution certainly moves towards assuaging their needs.”

LockTight CompactFlash employs a unique strategy to protect data, and, as a result, LockTight cards are always “locked.” A computer or camera cannot read or write data to/from a LockTight card until a critical authorization process takes place between the LockTight card and the host computer or host camera. This authorization process is where the 160-bit HMAC SHAH-1 encryption algorithm is employed.

Lexar’s LockTight CompactFlash will be available at photo-specialty stores and through key market value added resellers in capacities of 512MB and 2GB.

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Sep 20: Kodak EasyShare One Review - Digital Photography Now

Digital Photography Now has a first look review of the Kodak EasyShare One digital camera and writes - 'There are going to be some who suggest the camera is a gimmick, or that four megapixels is mean and inadequate. After having used an EasyShare One for a few hours, I'm loathed to describe the camera as gimmicky – wireless connection to the Web makes Web-based sharing a cinch and you get instant photo emailing capability too. There are some rough edges to the user interface, but in the end it hangs together and actually works. Perhaps more of a concern is the bottom line cost of public hotspot services, because I can see myself using this facility a great deal in conjunction with a camera like the EasyShare One.'

Read more about the Kodak EasyShare One

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Sep 20: Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T33 Review - Steves Digicams -

Steves Digicams reviews the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T33 and writes - 'I was pleased with the T33's outdoor shooting results. The lens produced sharp results throughout its 38 – 114mm (35mm equivalent) optical zoom range, with a moderate amounts of barrel distortion at extreme wide-angle and pin cushioning at full telephoto. It zooms smoothly and nearly continuously throughout its 3X range; I counted more than 20 steps between full wide angle and full telephoto. Our outdoor test images were both well exposed and richly saturated, and had very little chromatic aberration (purple fringing) in high contrast areas. The T33's outdoor images were noticeably warmer than its T5 & T7 siblings.'

Read more about the Sony Cybershot DSC-T33

Buy the “Sony Cybershot DSCT33 5.1MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom (Includes Docking Station)”

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Sep 20: Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T5 Review - Steves Digicams

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.'

Read more information and reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-T5

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Sep 20: Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T7 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T7 and writes - 'If you're in need of a super-compact digicam that captures high resolution images, the SONY CyberShot T7 or its T5 and T33 siblings could be just the ticket. With 5-megapixel imagers, terrific image quality, small size, light weight and good-looks, Sony produced a trio of high-quality go anywhere cameras for recording your vacation travels and outdoor activities. They are less successful at capturing indoor family events because of their limited flash range. Because they so equal in quality, performance and features, it seems that Sony is conducting market research with real products, an expensive proposition for them and somewhat of a dilemma for you; how do you choose?'

Read more about the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T7

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Sep 20: Copying Digital Photos Onto Film

A German MINOX lab copies digital pictures pixel by pixel onto traditional chemical film

Carsten Chadt explains: “Well maintained traditional film material is known to last for at least a century or two and reproduction is easy.” Loss of data can be caused by many different means. The storage medium ages, they may get damaged or deleted by accident or another unknown and that is today’s standards may not be read by future hardware and software. Therefore, it should be common practice to regularly copy to the latest standards, but in practice this is becoming more and more complex as the number and size of the files grow. The answer is that pixel by pixel and basic colour by basic colour the information of digital photos will be transferred by cathode rays to conventional film material by a newly developed machine. This provides the ability to produce classic photos on demand on photo paper. Also, to the best of our knowledge today, every future scanner will be able to read films or transparencies as they are optical memories.

Chadt is fully convinced by the quality of his service and says: “There are currently machines on the market which copy the digital photo from the monitor – but not this one! With our method the picture is systematically reproduced in colour and resolution to the analogue image.” The capability of the machine known as the CCG film recorder is eleven million pixels. Customers can supply their data via CD, DVD or storage card to have them professionally copied. It’s for sure that many photographers will use this service to safeguard special digital photos as memories for the future.

Further information is available via the homepage of LAB 811 at http://www.lab811.com and under http://www.digitaldarkage.com

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Sep 19: Kodak EasyShare Picture Viewer Review - Pocket Lint

Pocket-link reviews the Kodak EasyShare Picture Viewer and was a little perplexed about why it existed:

'While we have to commend Kodak for producing a truly attractive little viewer that is sure to win over many enthusiastic owners, it’s still quite hard to understand the thinking behind it, particularly as there are today, a growing number digital cameras with the same size (or bigger) screen and that are not much physically bigger than this viewer-only device.

Battery life is a little limited too with a modest three to three and a half hours viewing time from a single full charge and the battery is non-user changeable, so you can’t buy a spare to have handy – just in case. Given its price of around £100 it looks pricey too.'

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Sep 19: Kodak EasyShare V550 Review - Lets Go Digital

Lets Go Digital reviews the Kodak EasyShare V550 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Kodak EasyShare V550 is a good camera offering true value for its money. Excellent image quality, simple operation and easy to carry around with you. The EasyShare V550 is not yet perfect, but which camera is? It's mainly details where the EasyShare V550 drops a stitch. In general it's an attractive digital camera, not only because of its appearance. The users of the EasyShare V550 benefit to the fullest from the EasyShare concept. It's a strong concept, but still leaving room for improvement. We're not overwhelmed and uncritical but the Kodak EasyShare V 550 is definitely an excellent choice for the starting photographer, or it will serve greatly as a second camera added to the rest of your photographic equipment.'

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Sep 18: Nikon D200 for Christmas?

A Norwegian site has a quote from the general manager of Nikon Nordic in Stockholm who cryptically indicates that the Nikon D200 could be out by Christmas. A translation of his answer to whether Nikon are planning to launch a DSLR to compete with Canon's 5D was that there will be a bit of a wait “But you can look under the Christmas Tree when the time comes”.

It could mean nothing but it's got chins wagging in Nikon discussion forums around the world! Could there be a Nikon 200 under the tree this Christmas?

Source

Get a price on the Nikon D200 from Amazon and compare prices on the Nikon D200 from around the web.

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Sep 18: Panasonic DMC-FZ30 Review - DP Reivew

DP Review has reviewed the Panasonic DMC-FZ30 digital camera and gives it a rating of 'recommended'. They write - 'In many ways the FZ30 is everything the FZ20 could (and maybe should) have been, and Panasonic must be applauded for implementing a huge raft of handling and control improvements, as well as speeding up overall performance. On the other hand you cannot help but wonder how much better this camera would be with a less noisy chip - the 7MP Sony CCD used in models such as the SD500 springs to mind (not that Panasonic would be caught dead using a Sony sensor of course!).'

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Sep 18: Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM Lens

Fast aperture telephoto zoom lens that provides excellent optical performance for Digital SLR cameras and film SLR cameras

This telephoto zoom lens provides a large F4 aperture at all focal lengths. The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghosting, and also maintains minimal light-fall-off, superior peripheral brightness is ensured.

Reduces flare and ghosting
New multi layer coating of this lens gives superb color performance whilst cutting down flare and ghosting caused by reflections from the digital image sensor. High optical performance is demonstrated throughout the entire zoom range.

Employs SLD (Super Low Dispersion) Glass
Two SLD glass elements are used in the front lens group and two in the rear lens group for superior correction of several aberrations for superior image quality throughout the entire zoom range.

Silent high-speed AF with HSM
The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a silent, high-speed AF function as well as full-time manual focusing capability for Sigma, Canon, and Nikon-D mount lenses.

Inner focusing and inner zooming systems
An inner focusing system eliminates front lens rotation, making the lens particularly suitable for using the petal-type lens hood supplied and circular polarizing filters. Since focusing and zooming do not change its overall length, ease of handling and operation is assured. A rotating tripod mount can be conveniently detached if required.

APO Tele-Converter EX (optional)
High-speed focusing is possible when this lens is used with dedicated APO EX tele-converters (1.4x and 2x). With the optional APO tele-converter 1.4x EX, it works as AF zoom lens from 140mm to 420mm F5.6. With APO tele-converter 2.0x EX, it works as a manual focus zoom lens from 200mm to 600mm F8.

Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM Lens Specifications

• Lens Construction 16 Elements in 14 Groups
• Angle of View 24.4 -8.2 degrees
• Number of Diaphragm Blades 9 Blades
• Minimum Aperture F32
• Minimum Focusing Distance 180cm
• Maximum Magnification 1:5
• Filter Size Diameter 82mm
• Dimensions Diameter 92.4mm X Length 226.5mm
• Weight 1440g
• Corresponding AF Mounts

* PENTAX SFX and SF7 cannot be used. [100-300mm F4 APO EX DG HSM]
SIGMA, CANON, NIKON (D), MINOLTA (D),PENTAX

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Sep 18: Sigma 28-70mm F2.8-4 DG Lens

Compact, large aperture zoom lens is ideal for digital and 35mm SLR cameras

Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 28-70 F2.8-4 DG lens. This compact, large aperture zoom lens is ideal for digital and 35mm SLR cameras. The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost, and also creates an optimum color balance through the entire zoom range. An aspherical lens element is used for excellent correction of distortion throughout the entire zoom range. This lens’ excellent performance makes it an ideal lens for Digital SLR Cameras as well as film SLR cameras. This standard zoom lens has a large aperture of F2.8 at 28mm focal length and yet it is compact and lightweight, with an overall length of 62.5mm (2.5“) and weight of 255g. (9oz.). Ideally suited for traveling, landscape photography and general photography. The supplied zoom hood can be used to obtain a superior light-blocking effect.

Sigma 28-70mm F2.8-4 DG Lens Features

• The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost
• High image quality is obtained through the entire zoom range with the use of Aspherical Lens element.
• It has a large aperture of F2.8 at 28mm focal length with an overall length of 62.5mm (2.5“) and weight of 255g. (9oz.).
• Supplied lens hood blocks out extraneous light.

Sigma 28-70mm F2.8-4 DG Lens Specifications

• Focal Length : 28-70mm
• Minimum Aperture : F22
• Lens Construction : 11 Elements in 8 Groups
• Angle of View : 75.4 - 34.3degrees
• Number of Diaphragm Blades : 8pcs
• Minimum Focusing Distance : 50cm (19.7”)
• Maximum Magnification : 1:6.5
• Filter Size : 58mm
• Lens Hood : Bayonet Type Hood
• Dimensions : Diameter 67.5mm (2.6“) x Length 62.5mm (2.5”)
• Weight : 255gr / 9oz

The appearance and specifications are subject to change without notice.

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Sep 18: Sigma 28-105 F2.8-4 DG Lens

A large aperture standard zoom lens that covers from wide-angle to telephoto and ideal for full-frame digital SLR cameras.

Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 28-105 F2.8-4 DG lens. This large aperture standard zoom lens provides superior performance both for Digital SLR Cameras and 35mm Film SLR Cameras. This standard zoom lens covers frequently used focal lengths from 28mm to 105mm and allows a large aperture of F2.8 at the 28mm focal length. It is very convenient for a wide range of applications including snap shots, indoor photography. The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost, which is a common problem with digital cameras, and also creates an optimum color balance throughout the entire zoom range. The use of aspherical lens reduces various aberrations throughout the entire zoom range and improves optical performance. This lens has minimum focusing distance of 50cm (19.7 inches) throughout the entire zoom range and it has also maximum magnification of 1:5.5. Because the front of the lens does not rotate, circular polarizing filters and a petal-type hood can easily be used.

Sigma 28-105 F2.8-4 DG Lens Features

• New and most effective coating used for minimizing flare and ghost.
• This standard zoom lens covers focal lengths from 28mm to 105mm and allows a large aperture of F2.8 at the 28mm focal length.
• The use of aspherical lens reduces various aberrations and improves optical performance.

Sigma 28-105 F2.8-4 DG Lens Specifications

• Focal Length : 28-105mm
• Minimum Aperture : F22
• Lens Construction : 12 Elements in 11 Groups
• Angle of View : 75.4 - 23.3 degrees
• Number of Diaphragm Blades : 8pcs
• Minimum Focusing Distance : 50cm (19.7“)
• Maximum Magnification : 1:5.5
• Filter Size : 72mm
• Lens Hood : Petal Hood
• Dimensions : Diameter 77mm (3”) x Length 81mm (3.1“)
• Weight : 405gr / 14.3oz

* The appearance and specifications are subject to change without notice.

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Sep 18: Sigma 28-200mm F3.5-5.6 DG Macro Lens

A compact, high-zoom ratio lens, designed to suit the special characteristics of digital cameras.

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 28-200mm F3.5-5.6 DG Macro lens. This compact, high-zoom ratio lens is designed to suit the special characteristics of digital cameras. The new multi-layer lens coating and lens design reduces flare and ghosting, and creates an optimum color balance throughout the entire zoom range.

Two aspherical lenses ensure excellent correction for all types of aberration. The lens displays a high level of optical ability throughout the entire zoom range for digital and film SLR cameras. This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 48cm (18.8“) throughout the entire zoom range. At the 200mm telephoto setting, the lens is capable of close up photography with a 1:3.8 maximum magnification. A zoom lock mechanism is provided to prevent the lens from creeping due to gravity.

Since the front of the lens does not rotate during focusing, a circular polarizing filter and “Petal-type hood” can be easily attached and used.

Sigma 28-200mm F3.5-5.6 DG Macro Lens Features

• The new multi-layer lens coating and lens design reduces flare and ghosting.
• Aspherical lenses provide correction for all types of aberration throughout the entire zoom range.
• Close up photography with a 1:3.8 maximum magnification.

Sigma 28-200mm F3.5-5.6 DG Macro Lens Specifications

• Focal Length : 28-200mm
• Minimum Aperture : F22
• Lens Construction : 16 Elements in 14 Groups
• Angle of View : 75.4 - 12.3 degrees
• Number of Diaphragm Blades : 8pcs
• Minimum Focusing Distance : 48cm (18.8“)
• Maximum Magnification : 1:3.8
• Filter Size : 62mm
• Lens Hood : Petal Hood
• Dimensions : Diameter 70mm (2.7”) x Length 77.7mm (3“)
• Weight : 400gr / 14.1oz

* The appearance and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Source: Sigma News Release

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Sep 18: Fujifilm FinePix A350 Review - Imaging Resouce

Imaging Resource reviews the Fujifilm FinePix A350 Digital Camera which they are quite impressed with. They write - 'With a 5.2-megapixel CCD and 3x optical zoom lens, the FinePix A350 continues that tradition in an attractive new design, although image resolution isn't really on par with the best 5-megapixel models out there. Like the most recent A Series models, it offers four preset scene modes and a long maximum exposure time. Its color is very bright and highly saturated, likely to be appealing to many consumers, even though it's not technically “accurate” color. Overall, it's a decent entry-level digital camera, offering adequate resolution for 8x10 inch prints and an optical zoom lens at a very low price. A workmanlike entry-level model, particularly for daytime shooting, but a little limited after dark.'

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Sep 18: Olympus Stylus 800 Review - DCRP

DCRP reviews the Olympus Stylus 800 and sums up by writing - 'Photo quality on the Stylus 800 is a mixed bag. Images are very sharp -- perhaps too much so -- and there's no way to adjust that. Noise levels are above average, which shouldn't be too surprising as this camera has a lot of pixels crammed on a tiny sensor. The camera can shoot as high as ISO 1600, though the resolution is lowered to 3 Megapixels and noise levels are pretty high. Otherwise photos were well-exposed with accurate colors and low purple fringing levels. Redeye was a problem, as it is on most cameras in this class.'

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Sep 18: Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1 who writes - 'the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1 will appeal to many users who are in the market for a stylish and durable digicam that features a high resolution imager. This ultra-compact model's size allows it to be carried in almost any size pocket, however, with its “so-so” performance, you'll have alot less chances of capturing those spontaneous moments. Although we were a little disappointed with the quality of its 8-megapixel images, they still produce pleasing prints up to 13x19-inches. With a MSRP of only $399 it offers a good value for an 8-megapixel consumer camera.'

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Sep 16: Ricoh Caplio RR530

The Ricoh Caplio RR530 is a 5.0 megapixel (CCD) camera with a 3x Optical Zoom, 12 megabytes of internal memory, Macro mode (up to 6cm) and a 1.8 inch LCD. It's going to hit stores in October

Ricoh Caplio RR530 Reviews

Digicam Review has reviewed the Ricoh Caplio RR530 digital camera and writes - 'The Ricoh Caplio RR530 is a compact 5 megapixel digital camera and is good in regards to value for money and features, however, the average movie mode, poor low-light focusing, and average speed mean that this camera is fairly average, and difficult to recommend. Good results can be obtained when taking photos outside set to ISO50, and when the camera manages to focus indoors, but noise is quite high, and shutter lag and slow focusing defintiely hinder usefulness. '

Ricoh Caplio RR530 Press Release

Ricoh is delighted to announce the release of the Caplio RR530 - a compact 5.0 megapixel, digital camera that makes the joy of digital photography accessible even to novice users.

The Caplio RR530 is the latest addition to the popular, award-winning Ricoh Caplio series, whose high performance, excellent value and style has won favour with digital photographers around the world. The RR530 consistently produces stunning, crystal-clear images that mark it out from the other cameras in its class. Boasting a 3x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom for a combined 12x zoom, the RR530 is equipped to capture a wide range of scenes.

Weighing in at just 130g*, the Caplio RR530’s stylish, compact body fits easily into your palm and your pocket. The RR530 makes taking quality photos easier than ever before – it really is as simple as “point and shoot”. With this little smoothie, even absolute beginners will find digital photography a breeze. For those who wish to get a little more creative, the RR530’s Mode dial enables the user to choose a movie mode or four scene modes: Portrait, Landscape, Sports or Night. What’s more, the brightness of the 1.8-inch LCD monitor is easily adjusted, meaning your images can be viewed clearly in any light. Transferring photos to your PC is fast and simple with the RR530’s USB connector. The handy 12 MB internal memory means the RR530 is ready to shoot straight out of the box, but it also supports an optional SD Memory card, a popular and widely used storage medium.

If you are looking for a stylish, compact digital camera, look no further than the Caplio RR530!
It will introduce you the world of digital photography.

* Without batteries, Hand strap and SD Memory card

Major Features of the Caplio RR530
1. 5.0 megapixel CCD deliver high image quality.
5.0 megapixel CCD deliver high image quality. Prints, even as large as A4 size, turn out and bright, sharp and full of rich detail from Caplio RR530 photos.

2. Optical 3x zoom, plus digital 4x zoom.
Optical 3x zoom offers you long reach for most scenes. When you need to go further, use the digital 4x zoom for a total of 12x zoom.

3. Movie and four scene modes.
Your Caplio RR530 records movie, plus has four scene modes that provide the best effect according to the type of subject.

4. Get in as close as 6cm with macro.
Enter the world of macro photography with detailed close-ups of flowers and other tiny objects.

5. Internal 12MB memory and SD Memory Card compatible.
The Caplio RR530 features 12MB of internal memory. To expand the capacity, just insert an SD Memory Card(sold separately).

6. Accepts regular AA batteries.
With easy-to-find AA batteries, you can keep shooting. Perfect for whenever you’re on the move.

7. Everything you need by a computer.
Connect your camera to a computer with the USB cable then enhance photos and even create panorama images with our software.

8. Webcam function *
* only can use in MS Windows OS

Ricoh Caplio RR530Specifications

CCD
Effective 5.0 million square pixels (5.2 million pixels), 1/2.5-inch primary color CCD

Lens
< Focal length> f5.4 -16.2 (equivalent to 32-96mm for 35mm cameras)
< Brightness > (F value) F 2.8 (W)-4.8 (T)

Zoom
Optical 3x zoom (up to 12x zoom when combined with digital zoom)

Object Distance approx. 0.5m-∞, Macro: approx. 0.06m-∞ (Wide), approx. 0.35m-∞ (Telephoto)
Shutter
1-1/2000 sec.

Recording Format
Compressed: JPEG (Exif ver. 2.2) DCF compliant, DPOF support
AVI (Motion JPEG Format compliant)

Recording Media
SD Memory Card (3.3V 32 - 512MB),
Internal Memory (12MB)

Resolution (pixels)
2560 x 1920,2048 x 1536,1280 x 960,640 x 480
320 x 240

Recording Mode
Still(Program,Auto), Scene Mode (Portrait, Landscape, Sports, Night Scene), Movie

Picture Mode
Fine/Normal/Economy

Storage Capacity
(No.of Pictures)
(Internal 12MB Memory)
2560x 1920(F:4,N:8,E:17), 2048x1536(F:6,N:13,E:27)
1280x960(F:17,N:33,E:64),640x480(F:64,N:128,E:257)

Storage Capacity(Time)
(Internal 12MB Memory)
56 seconds (320x240)

ISO Sensitivity
AUTO/50,100,200

Flash*
Auto/ Red-Eye Reduction/ Mandatory Flash/ Flash Off
Flash Range: approx. 0.6m-2.4m (Wide), approx. 0.6m-2.1m (Telephoto)

Focus
Auto Focus, Macro, Infinity

Exposure Compensation
Manual Compensation (+2.0 to -2.0EV in 0.3EV steps)

White Balance
Auto/ Fixed (Daylight, Cloudy, Sunset, Tungsten, Fluorescent)

LCD Monitor
1.8 inch TFT LCD (approx. 130,000 pixels)

Viewfinder
Real-image optical zoom finder

Self Timer
Operating Time: approx. 10 sec./ 2 sec./10+2 sec.

PC Interface
USB1.1 (supported by Windows98/98SE/2000/Me/XP, or Mac OS 9.0 or higher with built-in USB port)

AV Interface
AV Out

Video Signal Method
NTSC/PAL switchable

Battery
AA alkaline or Rechargeable battery x2

Shooting Capacity*
Based on CIPA Standard: using AA alkaline, approx. 80 pictures

Dimensions (W x D x H)
91.0mm(W) x 27.0mm(D) x 61.0mm(H)

Weight
Approx. 130g (without batteries, Hand strap,SD Memory card)

Operating Temperature
0~40°C

* Battery performance was measured using CIPA-standard parameters. Actual performance may vary according to usage conditions and the brand of the battery.
* Windows is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S.A. and other countries.
* Mac OS is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries.

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Sep 15: Canon Unveils the IXY Digital L3

This afternoon we had an email from a reader telling us about (and showing us this picture) a new Canon Digital camera - the Canon IXY Digital L3.

The Canon IXY Digital L3 is a digital camera that should be announced by Canon in October of 2003. It is an upgrade to the previously released IXY Digital L2 (also known as the Canon Digital IXUS i5 in Europe and the Canon PowerShot SD20 in the US).

The IXY Digital L3 is a 5 megapixel camera with a 1.8inch TFT LCD and 2.4x Optical Zoom lens.

It features USB 2.0, a more powerful battery than the L2, SD card slot and video recording (WAV files).

The Canon IXY Digital L3 will come in four colors (purple, gold, silver and black). There is no word yet on price or what the model numbers will be in the US and Europe.

Update: more information on the L3 can be found at Mobile Mag's page on the camera where they have even more photos on it.

Update II: See the official page from Canon on the Digital L3 here.

Update III: Pass us something to wipe the egg off our faces - the Canon IXY Digital L3 is actually the Canon Powershot SD30 - IXUS I - all these names for the one camera gets so confusing!

Thanks to Mark from PhotographyBLOG for working it out for us.

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Sep 15: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 - DCRP Review

DCRP reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 and is really impressed with the image stabilization that it has built in. They write - 'The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 may look like just another ultra-compact camera, but it has one feature that none of the competition has: image stabilization. Most people thing that's only useful for ultra zoom cameras, but that's not the case at all. The FX9's OIS system will give you sharper photos in lower light conditions than a camera without it. That, along with the FX9's other nice features, makes it a camera that I can definitely recommend.'

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Sep 15: Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ30 preview - LetsGoDigital

Lets Go Digital has a comprehensive preview/review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ30 and sums up the digital camera with the following - 'The Panasonic DMC FZ30 is a highly attractive high resolution camera. The combination of the powerful 12x optical zoom, the Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S) and the bright and high resolution turnable LCD display were a pleasure to experience. Once you have learned the benefits of the O.I.S I am afraid your next digital camera will not be without it. The high resolution is nice for those who are seeking for the highest amount, although more pixels on such a small image sensor has some disadvantages. At this moment almost every high resolution model experiences the same problem, except for the Fujifilm FinePix S9500. The latter one is not completely noise free in the highest ISO values but definitely a lot better compared to its competitors. Innovations and introductions in this world sometimes succeed one another extremely fast. It was only some days ago that Sony released it's latest flagship: the Sony Cybershot R1 with a new large CMOS sensor, ISO up to 3200, and 10.3 effective Megapixels. Today Panasonic entered the high resolution market with the FZ30 digital camera, a product which will give them a stronger position in this oh so active market.'

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Sep 15: Sony Cyber Shot DSC-W5 - CNET Reviews

CNET reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-W5 and writes - 'A junior version of the 7-megapixel DSC-W7, the 5-megapixel Sony Cyber Shot DSC-W5 boasts the same no-nonsense, compact, metal-alloy body; gorgeous 2.5-inch LCD (which is coupled with a modest optical viewfinder for use in bright ambient light); 3X Carl Zeiss zoom lens; and basic array of automatic and manual controls. Decent image quality, a versatile burst mode, and convenient AA battery power make this Sony suitable for photo fans who want a pocketable camera with a useful set of mostly automatic features. Minimovie buffs will like the ability to edit 640x480, 16fps clips right in the camera.'

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Sep 14: Olympus µ [mju] Digital 800 Review - TrustedReviews

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Olympus µ [mju] Digital 800 (also known as the Olympus Stylus 800) and writes - 'It may be questionable whether anyone really needs an 8MP compact, but there’s no denying that the Olympus mju 800 is an extremely good camera. Build quality, ease of use and performance are as good as ever. The Bright Capture technology makes low-light photography much easier, and the image quality in SHQ mode is superb. If you simply must have A3-size holiday snaps then it’s ideal.'

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Sep 14: Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 Review - Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 is a decent camera - if it’s found at the right price, and if all you want out of it is its ability to take snapshots. It has a rugged stylish frame, very easy to use functions, and has the perfect button layout and ergonomics to facilitate one-handed use. Unfortunately, the camera also has poor battery life and below average performance in color accuracy and noise. Its slow start-up and shot to shot speed may hinder shooting situations with lots of activity. The screen is prone to washing out and its low pixel count doesn’t help either. The camera however is perfectly sized for unburdened pocket portability. Novices looking for a simple on-the-go point-and-shoot that is easy to handle and has a great feel have found their match. Unfortunately, those more intent on performance and features will have to keep up their search. '

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Sep 13: Fujifilm Finepix A350 Review - Megapixel.net

Megapixel reviews the Fujifilm Finepix A350 and writes - 'The FinePix A350 benefits from Fujifilm's excellent and very reliable multi-segment metering, though sometimes the photos may not appear to be bright and well exposed on the monitor.

But, when the images are transferred to a computer and seen on a monitor, or even when they are printed directly, the quality of the exposure is usually revealed to be quite good.'

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Sep 13: Nikon D50 DSLR Review - Pocket-lint.co.uk

Pocket Lint Reviews the Nikon D50 DSLR which they rate very highly (9 out of 10). They write - 'The D50 represents an ideal D-SLR for those first time D-SLR buyers on a more modest budget. Image quality, handling, responsiveness and key features strike an excellent balance, and while the D50 lacks some of the more advanced bits of the D70s, it is no slouch and so should be at the top of – or at the very least – near the very the top of your list if your in the market for such a camera.'

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Sep 13: Ricoh GR Digital

The Ricoh GR Digital is an 8.13 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with a 28mm F2.4 fixed focal length lens and 2.5inch LCD. The Ricoh GR Digital is built in the style of the popular 35mm analogue GR series and is being touted as a high quality camera.

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Ricoh GR Digital News Release

Professional Grade High Resolution Compact Digital Camera

Ricoh announced today the launch of the GR Digital, a newly developed professional-grade high-resolution compact digital camera. In addition to a CCD with 8,130,000 effective pixels, the new digital camera boasts superb resolution through a newly developed high-performance lens, image-processing algorithms, and other innovations, as well as low noise and low chromatic aberration.

The new GR Digital inherits the superb image quality that made the award winning GR Series (first launched in 1996) of 35mm compact film cameras so popular, as well as the depictive performance to satisfy professional photographers, distilled into a compact 25-mm thin body.

With a high-quality feel and superb expandability, this is the perfect tool for both professional photographers and advanced amateurs.

When planning the GR Digital, Ricoh's engineers began by identifying the elements needed to provide the high picture quality demanded by discerning photographers. After extensive tests and research, Ricoh placed special emphasis on resolution, noise level, colour aberration correction, colour reproduction, tone, and distortion characteristics. In order to achieve extremely high levels in each of these areas, Ricoh gave the GR Digital a CCD with 8,130,000 effective pixels, and also developed two key components: (1) a F2.4 fixed focal length GR lens with f = 5.9 mm (28 mm converted to 35 mm format camera) having high resolution and depictive power; and (2) a new GR Engine image-processing system featuring natural composition and rich, fine gradations while further lowering noise in all images.

These key components in turn translate into a high Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) rating for the central area of the image as well as the edges. MTF is a measure of contrast and resolution, and one of the most widely used standards for evaluating image quality. The GR Digital has the descriptive power to show each hair on a person's head, with superb reproductive capability all the way into the corners of the picture. The GR Digital’s images also reduce noise, giving greater continuity in dark areas, reproduces natural tones and gradations, and reduces blurring and distortion.

MTF Curve of GR F 2.4 Lens with f = 5.9 mm

Notes:
- The closer the 50/mm and 150/mm curves are to 100%, the higher the contrast and resolution.
- 50 lines/mm and 150 lines/mm are equivalent to 10 lines/mm and 30 lines/mm, respectively, when converted to a 35-mm format camera. In general, if a 10 line/mm 35-mm format camera has an MTF of 80% or higher, it is considered to have excellent image quality, and at 60% or higher is considered to have satisfactory image quality.
- The alignment of the R and T characteristics is vital for blurring and other depictive characteristics.

Ricoh launched their first digital camera – the Ricoh DC- in 1995. The Ricoh DC-1 was the world's first digital camera to support video. Since then, Ricoh have remained at the forefront of digital camera technology. Ricoh’s leading edge technologies have seen many breakthroughs with such outstanding features as: 1cm macro, wide-angle high quality optical zoom lenses, ultra fast response times (start-up and shutter release lag) and unique linking of communications and GPS support functions.

Main Features of the GR Digital:

Newly Developed GR Lens Provides High Resolution and resolving power.

- A retro-focus lens using a concave lens toward the subject and a convex lens toward the CCD, widely used in wide-angle SLRs and the like, is used. In addition to this two glass-moulded aspheric lenses and one special low dispersion lens are used. These are optimally laid out in a configuration that fully corrects and reduces distortion, frame aberration, colour aberration, using fewer lens element. It also improves the light transmissivity of the lens, producing clear images.
- A retracting lens system is employed, allowing part of the lens groupings (rear group) to be stowed inside the camera body. This shortens the distance between the second and third lenses when stowed. This not only helps to improve the image quality it also helps to reduce the camera size.
- A dedicated system can adjust the optical axis of the outer lens group and CCD-side lens group at the micron level. This enables uniform image quality from edge to edge.
- Equipped with a generous seven- blade aperture and neutral density (ND) filter
- These features enable high resolution, high image quality from edge to edge, low noise in dark areas, natural tone and gradations, and good background blurring upon aperture release. The ND filter uniformly absorbs each base colour: R, G, and B, allowing larger apertures to be utilized.

Boasting 8,130,000 effective pixels, the camera delivers the high image quality that professionals demand.

Image Processing via GR Engine Maximizes Lens Performance.

- Supplemental processing on adjacent pixels creates smooth, natural curves.
- Noise is reduced even further by including top-of-the-line components with superb characteristics in the analog circuit. During long-term exposures, heat and light sources – which can cause noise – are kept down to a minimum, enabling long 3-minute exposure times for great pictures of the night sky and similar subjects.
- Through image-pattern analysis, variations in auto exposure (AE) and auto white balance (AWB) are suppressed. As a result, Whites look White and Blacks look Black.
- Improved AF precision in macro mode.
- Images are simultaneously stored in uncompressed RAW and JPEG formats.

Slim, Compact Design.
The thin, compact design – 107.0 x 25.0 x 58.0 mm (WxDxH) achieves both portability and ease of use as a photographic tool. Now you can enjoy the high-quality photography of the GR Digital any time, anywhere.

Functionally Aesthetic Design Delivers High Quality and Ease Of use.

- The lens is placed near the centre of the camera, in a design that provides the photographer maximum balance for greater stability.
- The camera uses a magnesium-alloy case combining a stylish design with durability for maximum strength.
- Offers the first twin dial in a compact digital camera. You adjust the aperture in the front, and the shutter in the back. This allows a high degree of operability and flexibility when shooting in manual mode.
- The built-in strobe uses a pop-up system, preventing vignetting (gradual fading of the image at the edges)

The Camera Itself is Simple, And Highly Expandable to Meet a Wide Range of Needs.

- Ricoh intentionally did not make an optical viewfinder standard, offering a high-performance externally attached optional viewfinder instead. It fits on a hot shoe almost directly above the lens to help achieve more accurate framing.
- The wide converter optional lens features an ultra wide-angle 21 mm (when converted to 35 mm format camera).
- An optional external strobe, cable release, hood and filters are also available.

Short Photo Interval of 1.7 Seconds
Even with 8,130,000 effective pixels, the shooting interval is just 1.7 seconds. When shooting continuously, you can shoot at this interval until the memory is full.

Built-in Large, High Resolution LCD with 100% View
The camera is equipped with a bright, high-definition, large 2.5-inch/210,000 pixel LCD. The field of view is 100%, enabling accurate framing.

Images can be captured in various combinations of resolution and compression. RAW compression and RAW with JPEG can be selected for ultimate quality

An aspect ratio of 3:2 can be selected, the same aspect ratio as 35mm and most digital SLR’s that allows images to be printed in standard sizes without cropping.

Manual, Program, Program shift AE and Aperture Priority modes allow for greater flexibility and freedom of expression.

Three metering modes are available: 256 multipoint, spot metering and centre weighted average metering giving the photographer the freedom to compose shots as they please under various lighting conditions.

A sophisticated 9-point AF system assures fast and accurate focus from just 30cm and 1.5cm in Macro.

Price and Availability:

The Caplio GR Digital will be available from October. RRP £399.99 inc VAT.

Ricoh GR Digital Reviews

Lets Go Digital has a preview/review of the Ricoh GR Digital in which they write - 'The Ricoh GR Digital is convenient to use. I just have to repeat myself telling you that handling a digital camera like the GR Digital with its wide 28mm fixed lens and the optional 21mm conversion lens gives it something extra. Today's cameras are almost all equipped with optical zoom, from 2.4x to 12x optical zoom ranges. I have noticed this before; using a camera with optical zoom will not encourage you to become part of the action. It does not invite you to come out of your chair and be part of the composition. Using the Ricoh GR Digital around Amsterdam in combination with the conversion lens (21mm, equiv. 35mm format camera) resulted in some great shots around the Van Gogh museum and the Amsterdam Concert Building... Although pre-production status I am impressed with the sharpness, the contrast and the lack of vignetting/distortion of the GR lens!'

Popular Photography Magazine has a first impression review of the yet to be released Ricoh GR Digital where they write - 'First, there's the solid-feeling magnesium-alloy body that measures about 4 inches wide by just over 2 inches high and a mere .75 inches thick. Then there's the 2.5-inch/210,000-pixel LCD.

But the coolest part is the lens. Not just the 28mm (equivalent) lens with its f/2.4 maximum aperture, but also the snap-on wide-angle lens that serves up the equivalent of a 21mm view.'

DPexpert reviews the Ricoh GR digital wide angle and writes - 'The Ricoh GR is obviously not for everyone. It is a relatively expensive single purpose camera. The one thing that it does it does well. For anyone with an interest in landscape photography or planning to spend a week or two in Venice this would be an ideal camera. It is small and light but feels rugged as though designed for professional abuse. The overall impression of the Ricoh is that it is fun to use. Recommended.'

DigiCam Review has posted a review of the Ricoh GR Digital and give it a rating of 'above average'. They write - 'The Ricoh GR Digital is a unique digital camera, offering excellent image quality for people who want a wide angle, or ultra-wide-angle lens with a compact body. The easy to use camera offers speedy performance, good battery life, and a good camera body with very good controls. The high ISO settings may come in handy on occasion, at the cost of image quality. This camera is difficult to recommend due to poor value for money and it's lack of optical zoom. However, if image quality is a priority and you've been looking for a rugged wide-angle compact digital camera, with the option of a very high quality optical viewfinder, and optional ultra-wide angle convertor, then this could be the camera for you! Ricoh are once again to be commended for daring to offer a unique digital camera in a crowded market.'

Digital Lifestyles reviews the Ricoh GR digital camera and writes - 'The Ricoh GR Digital is a truly unique digital camera that stands out from the crowd by concentrating on the basics, offering a speedy performance, full creative control, a good battery life and a fast, crisp wide-angle lens that made it perfect for landscapes and cameos. We fell in love with the camera's lo-fi look, with its nondescript appearance barely attracting attention on the street, letting us get on with taking pictures unhindered.'

Pocket-lint reviews the Ricoh GR Digital digital camera which they give a rating of 9 out of 10. They writes - 'While the Ricoh GR Digital is not without flaws and notwithstanding its �400 price tag, which may make some swallow hard before parting with any cash for it, it is also a very accomplished little camera. The new GR would be ideal as a professional�s back up, or perhaps the main weapon of choice for photo enthusiasts. In either case they�d be safe in the knowledge the camera boasts a superb spec, lacking practically nothing; a built-in optical viewfinder would be a benefit though. Moreover, the image quality and versatility will not let them down. In short, it is worth every penny. '

Trusted Reviews post their review of the Ricoh GR Digital where they write - 'Ricoh has produced something unique, a compact camera that will satisfy even the most demanding enthusiast. Its combination of compact portability, robust build quality, superb handling, creative control and fantastic picture quality should make it a firm favourite among keen photographers, especially the travel photographers who loved the original GR film camera. An expensive camera, especially for the whole kit, but well worth the money.'

DP Review has posted their review of the Ricoh GR Digital where they write - 'A niche product, and one that Ricoh should be applauded for designing in a market stuffed with 'me too' cameras, but one that its hard to wholeheartedly recommend. If it had breathtaking image quality the price would be irrelevant, but as it stands you're paying nearly as much as a Nikon D50 outfit for the camera (and a lot more if you include the optical viewfinder), and a lot more than you would for one of the several excellent compacts on the market with a zoom starting at 28mm. If you consider the slimness and superb manual control worth the money, you'll love it. For everyone else it's a lot harder to justify. We ummed and ahhed over the rating on this one for a while, as it is very nearly deserving of a Recommended, but in the end it just doesn't quite add up.'

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Sep 13: Sony Cyber-shot M2

The Sony Cyber-shot M2 is a digital camera that seeks to converge still photography and video into one unit. It features a rotating design that looks a little like a phone and enables one handed shooting, 5.1 megapixel image sensor, MPEG-4 recording, 3x Optical Zoom lens, aluminum case, USB 2.0 and 2.5 inch LCD.

Expect to see the Sony Cyber-shot M2 in stores in November of 2005.

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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M2 News Release:

SONY ANNOUNCES 2-IN-1 CYBER-SHOT, COMBINING STILL PHOTOGRAPHY AND MOVIE MAKING CAPABILITIES

Quality still pictures, movie footage and fun playback opportunities - in one stylish device

The Sony Cyber-shot M2 features 5.1 effective Megapixel resolution and a high quality movie mode (MPEG-4 recording) in a stylish, ergonomically designed camera. The Cyber-shot M2 combines the best of both worlds: great quality photography is guaranteed, thanks to the 5.1 effective Megapixel Super HAD CCD a large and bright 2.5 inch Hybrid LCD screen, Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar folded-path 3x Optical Zoom lens. In addition, the same device gives you casual movie-shooting capabilities, allowing you to capture up to 50 minutes of good quality footage on a Memory Stick PRO Duo with one charge of the supplied InfoLITHIUM battery. Or why not choose the ‘5 Sec Rec’ mode for a fresh style of snappy movie making.

Now you can have it all...
The Sony Cyber-shot M2 is the perfect futuristic accessory to impress your friends. With a press of a button, the camera can switch between photo and movie modes depending upon which will best capture the mood. Unique to Sony, the Cyber-shot M2 features the Pocket Album and Slide Show plus Movie functions for effortless and fun playback on the generously sized 2.5 inch Hybrid LCD screen. Moreover the large screen allows you to frame the shot in any light conditions, including direct sunlight. The camera uses Sony’s Real Imaging Processor, which enables it to capture pictures quickly so you'll never miss the moment.

Style in the palm of your hand
The ergonomically designed one-handed grip sits neatly in the palm of your hand, and the slightly tilted lens axis on the Cyber-shot M2 allows you to hold and shoot with a natural wrist position. The camera automatically switches into photo mode as soon as you flip up the large LCD screen.

The control layout has been designed with ease of operation in mind. For example, the Photo and Movie buttons are arranged in a horizontal line, within easy reach of your thumb. The shuttle control feature on the back of the device allows you to easily scan forwards and backwards through your movie footage and photography to reach the scene you really want to view.

The aluminium body has a special finish to create a luxurious and classic satin metallic look and feel. Equally impressive on holiday, at an evening party or a family barbecue, the Cyber-shot M2 always exudes style.

View and share pictures, wherever, whenever
Imagine how heavy a photo album carrying 1,100 of your favourite photos might be! The new Pocket Album feature from Sony allows you to carry and view up to that much of your favourite still photos on the camera's LCD screen. A separate, internal memory is dedicated to holding your pictures in VGA size, which means you view them whenever you want. The internal Pocket Album in the Cyber-shot M2 is a great way to share with friends and tell a story. In addition to the LCD screen, images can be viewed on TV screen. When the maximum capacity is reached, the oldest images are automatically deleted to make space for new ones (individual images can be protected from deletion). Of course, images are also stored in full high resolution on optional Memory Stick PRO Duo for you to save on a PC or print out.

Truly dynamic slide shows
In addition, the Cyber-shot M2 features a Slide Show plus Movie function for a truly rich slide show experience. It brings your pictures and five second movies to life by playing them back in a variety of slide show styles: select from 'Active', 'Simple', 'Stylish' and 'Nostalgic' modes and your pictures and five second movies will be shown at random accompanied by a choice of four pre-set background music melodies to complement the mood. You can even add background music of you own choice using the supplied Picture Package software. You can select the Music Transfer function to add your own music (MP3 or CD music) to the camera’s internal memory to further personalise your slide shows. To make the very best of your memories, the camera goes one step further, blending and zooming in and out on images for a truly dynamic, movie-like slide show. You don't even have to wait to get home to enjoy this great feature-just switch to Slide Show plus Movie mode and the camera does the rest! There is also a 'Normal' function for playback without mood music.

Pictures in context
The Hybrid REC mode gives your pictures real context on the Cyber-shot M2. By simply pressing the PHOTO button while filming in Hybrid REC mode, the camera will automatically record the five seconds before the still picture and three seconds after the still picture. It’s truly a unique way to capture the atmosphere surrounding the moment. In this mode the movies are stored as 15 fps at QVGA size (320x240).

Stereo sound
The Cyber-shot M2 even features a stereo microphone, a first for a Sony digital camera, and great for playback on a stereo TV. The built-in mono speaker incorporates an ALC (Auto Level Control) circuit, this combined with the Class D amplifier, allows surprisingly loud sound playback without distortion and also ensures low power consumption.

Greater Appeal
The Cyber-shot M2 also features PictBridge, the standard for printing directly to photo printers, such as the Sony DPP-FP50. The supplied Cyber-shot Station makes charging and connecting to a PC, printer or TV even simpler.

The Cyber-shot M2 will ship throughout Europe during November 2005.

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Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-M2 Reviews

DCRP reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M2 and writes - 'The M2 is a point-and-shoot camera with a few nice extras. Those extras include an enhanced slideshow feature and an 1100 shot album that fills automatically as you take pictures. The album uses a memory bank that's built into the camera. Oddly, there's no internal memory for regular shooting, and Sony doesn't included a memory card either, so that $500 camera just got more expensive. The M2 could use some manual controls as well, with white balance and shutter speed being the most desirable. One thing that the DSC-M2 does very well is movie recording. It records movies at 640 x 480 (30 fps) with stereo sound until the memory card is full. Since the camera uses the MPEG-4 codec it takes a while to fill up. The camera even lets you use the zoom lens during filming! Again, Sony surprised me by leaving out even the most basic movie editing features on the M2.'

Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Sony Cyber-shot M2 and recommends - 'For half the price you can get a camera that takes pictures and shoots video just as well, but is far easier to handle. The M2 may look cool and funky, and there’s no denying that it can take good pictures, but its shockingly poor handling, badly designed and over-complicated controls and limited battery life, combined with an inflated price tag, make this a big white elephant.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC M2 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber-shot M2 is a bit of an enigma. It's capable of producing high-quality 5-megapixel stills, but its indoor results are limited by its underpowered flash. Although billed as a hybrid still/movie camera, Sony failed to endow the M2 with high-quality movie features. The standard movies suffer from the graininess of over compression, and its hybrid movies are low resolution, low frame rate, and interrupted by still image capture. For a first attempt, the M2 hybrid is an interesting exercise, but it falls short of expectations. '

CNET reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-M2 and gives it a rating of 7.4 out of 10. They write - 'The Sony Cyber Shot DSC-M2 is a jack-of-all-trades and a master of some. Thanks to good image quality and a big, bright LCD that's usable in sunlight, this hybrid still camera/camcorder update to the DSC-M1 remains a surprisingly good point-and-click 5-megapixel snapshooter--assuming you're willing to pay a premium for a camera with a 3X zoom, no manual controls, and no bundled memory card. Besides some aesthetic and interface changes, the DSC-M2 isn't very different from the DSC-M1. Both cameras have the same 5-megapixel sensor, the same MPEG-4 movie support, the same 3X zoom lens, and the same good image quality for photos and videos. The DSC-M2 is sleeker than its predecessor and has a few new functions, but under the case, it's basically the same hardware as the DSC-M1. Regardless of its flaws, though, anyone who needs a pocketable camcorder and doesn't want to sacrifice photo quality should consider this quirky shooter.'

Imaging Resource has posted a review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M2 where they write - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M2 is about as unique a digital camera as could be imagined. It packs a 3x zoom lens and high-resolution five megapixel sensor into a reasonably compact body, and offers generally good image quality as well as movies that are much better than average. The interface has been improved from the original DSC-M1, but still has quirks that could be ironed out. The interface is simply too complicated. The 5SEC mode seems to have no useful purpose, and the Hybrid mode may prove difficult for new owners to grasp and use. I'd like to see Sony change the camera's design to simply allow a still image to be captured at any time, even if a movie is already recording, by pressing the Photo shutter button. More importantly, though, the M1's zoom lever is far too small, too difficult to feel, and offers almost no tactile feedback. Other areas of the interface drew mixed opinions among the IR staff. I felt that the positioning of the four-way arrow pad on the LCD hinge was quite easy to reach with my thumb, but Senior Editor Shawn Barnett felt it was too difficult to reach.'

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Sep 12: Samsung Digimax i5 Review - Camera Town

Cameratown reviews the Samsung Digimax i5 and writes - 'The stainless steal body, sleek compact design, internal 3x optical zoom lens, layout and overall feel, docking station, rechargeable battery, 50MB of internal memory, integrated lens/flash cover, large 2.5“ TFT color LCD display, easy-to-navigate menu system, and 30 fps MPEG-4 video mode with audio and zoom are reasons to consider the Samsung i5. The camera also features a superb super macro mode which should be considered if you often take pictures of small objects (think ebay auctions). Long exposures (night mode) seem to be one of the high points of the Samsung i5. A 12-second exposure taken in a dimly lit room yielded bright, sharp, clean results. This was very unexpected especially considering the camera lacks a tripod mount - a necessity when shooting with long exposures. To get around the lack of a tripod mount, use a bean bag or table along with the self-timer to keep the camera steady when shooting.'

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Sep 12: Canon PowerShot S2 IS Eeview - PC Magazine

PC Magazine reviews the Canon PowerShot S2 IS and writes - 'We look to superzooms to get us close to the action, to help us capture important shots from afar. But a long zoom isn't everything. Although Canon's latest superzoom, the PowerShot S2 IS, has an amazing 12X optical zoom, that doesn't make up for some of the camera's shortfalls.'

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Sep 12: Pentax Optio WP Review - Lets Go Digital

Lets Go Digital reviews the Pentax Optio WP Digital Camera and writes - 'The Pentax Optio WP is a nice camera with some efficient features. The Pentax WP is a fast camera to work with and it's an 'easy to carry around' camera. The image quality could be improved a little and a somewhat larger battery wouldn't hurt either. But the greatest fun of the Pentax Optio WP is the fact that it is waterproof. And I mean, really waterproof, you can take it with you when swimming, even underwater. There is a lot to discover there! Most certainly the Pentax Optio WP is a very attractive camera for the holiday photographer, you just take it with you wherever you go. Still outside of the summer season the Optio WP will keep on pleasing you.'

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Sep 10: Kodak i30 Scanner Review - PC Magazine

PC Magazine reviews the Kodak i30 Scanner and writes - 'Judging by its low price and small size, the Kodak i30 Scanner ($650 street) is part of the new generation of document scanners designed for individual users and small offices. Unfortunately, it comes with a disappointing set of bundled programs, and there is no printed manual for Kodak's Capture software.'

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Sep 10: Canon PowerShot SD500 Review - Designtechnica

Design Technica reviews the Canon PowerShot SD500 and writes - 'Canon wins very high marks with this tiny camera. Picture quality is excellent, the form factor is terrific but not museum quality. One of the ELPH's few negatives is the proprietary lithium ion battery that really doesn't have the juice to keep you shooting for a day. A spare is mandatory as is a high-speed SD card. The LCD screen isn't the best in the world but it's more than adequate. Beyond that, you'll be shooting like crazy and since it's so small you'll take it everywhere. And that's what photography is all about.'

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Sep 10: Kodak invented the Digital Camera in 1995

USA Today has an interesting piece today on Kodak and how one of their engineers had actually invented a toaster sized 0.1 megapixel digital camera back in 1975. The article - If only Kodak had phased out celluloid sooner makes some good points about Kodak, a company that came close to missing the digital camera boat due to its reluctance to let go of film.

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Sep 10: Konica Minolta Closes Canadian Digital Camera Unit

Graphic Exchange News has news that Konica Minolta are closing down their digital cameras business unit in Canada due to competition.

'The Canadian company, capitalized at CDN$5.66 million, will be sold off at a yet-to-be-decided date, subject to regulatory procedures. Konica Minolta Holdings, manufacturer of office equipment and digital cameras, said in a prepared press release that this liquidation would not affect its forecasts for the year to March 2006.'

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Sep 9: Nikon Coolpix S2 Review - Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info reviews the Nikon Coolpix S2 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix S2 is built with style in mind, as well as ease of use for the fashion-conscious point-and-shooter. The 5 megapixel 1/2.5-inch CCD comes packed in a splash-proof metal body with a 3x optical zoom lens that remains flush with the camera body at all times. The stylish design includes a sliding lens door that protects the lens and flash while providing a nice mirror for your own fashion purposes.'

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Sep 9: Canon EOS 5D First Look Review - Pocket-lint.co.uk

Pocket Lint has a first impression review of the Canon EOS 5D and writes - 'What we have here is a very highly specified machine indeed, but given its professional bent, there are a couple of surprising omissions. There’s no water or dust resistance and there’s no sound memo feature. While the latter is a minor omission, the former may be off putting, particularly for any professional that regularly shoots outdoors. However, given the projected pricing of the new camera of around £2540 it is still very temping, we’ll just have to wait until the review sample arrives to see just how well it performs in earnest rather than the hands on look we got while at the launch. '

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Sep 8: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 is a 10.3 megapixel digital camera with and ultra-wide Carl Zeiss Vario Sonner T* zoom lens (5x optical Zoom - 24mm - 120mm). The image sensor is of the same size as larger professional cameras (2/3“ CCD) and the LCD is 2 inches - and strangely positioned as a swing out display from the top of the camera.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1's sensor allows for 'live preview' and the camera shoots at up to three frames per second with a shutter release of just 7.5 milliseconds.

Look for the DSC-R1 in shops in mid November for around $1000 USD.

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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 News Release

SONY ESTABLISHES A NEW CLASS OF HIGH-END DIGITAL CAMERA

Sony intends to create a new benchmark in digital photography with the introduction of its high-end Cyber-shot DSC-R1 camera.

The Cyber-shot R1 camera is the world’s first integrated lens digital still camera to combine a professional-grade, 10.3-megapixel image sensor and the flexibility of live preview while shooting. With its ultra-wide Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* zoom lens (24mm – 120mm) and free-angle, two-inch LCD, the Cyber-shot R1 brings professional level imaging performance to mainstream consumers.

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”The R1 represents a breakthrough in digital camera technology and construction,“ said James Neal, director for digital imaging products at Sony Electronics. ”You can grab this camera and go, confident that you will be prepared for a wide range of shooting situations. Its many convenience features and exceptional performance can not easily be matched with a typical consumer-level digital SLR.“

A Class of Its Own
Photo enthusiasts know that image sensor size is one of the most important influences on picture quality. Professional-grade image sensors, sometimes referred to as advanced photo system (APS) or APS-class, are many times the size of compact sensors used in point-and-shoot cameras; large sensors deliver extraordinary resolution, high sensitivity to light, and lower image noise or graininess for exceptional pictures. At 10.3 megapixels, the R1’s sensor offers one of the highest resolutions available in the APS class.

Unlike digital SLRs, the Cyber-shot R1 unit’s sensor allows for a “live” preview thanks to Sony Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology. Until now, the extraordinary power consumption of these large sensors has limited their operation to image capture only – unable to support the benefit of a live preview. Sony’s distinctive design is employed to reduce power consumption, as well as increase image processing speeds.

The camera’s electronic viewfinder or two-inch LCD lets you evaluate scene conditions, such as exposure and how color is rendered before taking a shot. Because the R1 camera can preview electronically, using the image sensor itself in real-time, framing is always 100% accurate.

Built Digital from the Ground Up
The R1’s integrated Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens was carefully crafted to take full advantage of the resolution, clarity and color performance of its APS-class CMOS image sensor. Because of the sensor’s live preview capability, there is no need for the camera to have a traditional “mirror and prism” construction common to digital SLRs. This allows a lens-to-sensor distance of as little as 2 mm, optimizing image quality and color accuracy.

Another benefit of this structure is the ability to incorporate an extraordinary wide field of view and zoom range. The 24 mm wide end of the lens is particularly suited for architectural photography, landscapes and large-group portraits, while the 120 mm telephoto end is perfect for filling the frame with distant subjects. This is a range not easily matched by any other lens for use with cameras using large-scale image sensors.

Furthermore, no mirror and prism construction means that the R1 is a quiet camera, perfect for shooting at a tennis match or in nature without disturbing wildlife.

Get the Shot without the Backache
The Cyber-shot R1 sports a two-inch, LCD screen that folds flat and swivels so you can shoot from nearly any position. This flexibility allows you to get the shots that other cameras miss. For example, you can hold the camera low – down to the ground – for eye-level view shots of kids and pets without having to bend yourself into a pretzel or crawling on the ground.

The Power of Optimal Image Processing
A 10.3-megapixel camera needs a fast processor. Sony harnessed the power of it Real Imaging Processor™ LSI to achieve fast response times, low power consumption and clear images.

The new camera features a one-second shot-to-shot time, three frame-per-second burst shooting, and a shutter release time of only 7.5 milliseconds. Because it consumes 70 percent less power than Sony’s previous processing circuitry, the camera has a battery life of up to 500 shots per charge, which can vary according to use and camera settings.

For enhanced versatility, Cyber-shot R1 offers three different modes of color reproduction: Adobe RGB used for professional graphics and offset color printing, Standard sRGB for most computer-based uses, and Vivid sRGB for more intense primary colors.

The camera’s user selectable Advanced Gradation Control System (AGCS) optimizes image contrast, in order to avoid “blown out” highlights in high-contrast scenes and “crushed” blacks in low-contrast ones. AGCS evaluates the distribution of brightness and then automatically applies the appropriate gamma curve to achieve better pictures.

Users will also enjoy the added convenience of storing images onto Memory Stick PRO™ media, as well as CompactFlash Type I and Type II media or Microdrive media. The camera supports both JPEG and RAW formats, which can then be manipulated on a PC using the supplied Sony Image Data Converter SR software.

The Cyber-shot R1 camera will be available in mid-November for about $1,000 online at SonyStyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and at select authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin online today at http://www.sony.com/r1.

The new camera is supplied with a NP-FM50 InfoLithium battery, an AC-L15 adaptor, a USB and video cables, shoulder strap, and CD-ROM software with PicturePackage and Image Data Converter SR for RAW. There are a variety of optional accessories (sold separately), including wide angle and telephoto conversion lenses, adaptors, filters, tripods, flashes, carry cases, a neck strap and a battery.

Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 Reviews

CNET Reviews has a review of the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1 and writes - 'Sony's Cyber Shot DSC-R1 represents an intriguing bridge between the world of user-friendly all-in-one prosumer cameras and the more complicated world of high-quality digital SLRs. It has an easily rotated LCD screen, plenty of manual bells and whistles, a sharp and versatile Carl Zeiss lens, and a 10-megapixel CMOS sensor nearly as large as those found in typical dSLRs.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 Digital Camera and recommends - 'The Sony DSC-R1 is a really compelling entry in the high-end "enthusiast" category. It offers a nearly unique focal length range, with truly exceptional optical quality, attractive color rendering, and very appealing tonality in its images. - Bottom line, we just liked looking at the R1's images. We found some of its ergonomics decidedly awkward, and both timing performance and high-ISO noise levels aren't up to the best of the digital SLRs currently on the market. On the other hand though, achieving the optical performance of the R1's lens with a conventional removable-lens SLR would cost literally thousands of dollars in high-end glass.'

Luminous Landscape reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1and writes - 'I am very ambivalent about the Sony R1. With its large and high resolution sensor, excellent lens, and first rate build quality for under US $1,000 it offers photographers a combination of features and abilities that in a DSLR would cost 2-3X as much to implement.

But, it still is a digicam – or FLD, and therefore lacks some of the features that DSLR users take for granted, such as fast frame rates and snappy autofocus. In exchange the R1 offers a waist level finder, a real-time histogram, and totally silent operation – features that no DSLR can provide.'

DCRP reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 finds itself in a difficult position: not only is it more expensive than most fixed-lens cameras, but it also costs more than most digital SLR kits. While the R1 has the best photo quality of any fixed-lens camera (by far), the tough competition from digital SLRs makes deciding between the R1 and a D-SLR difficult.'

PC Mag reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 and isn't overly impressed. They write - 'If you've got deep pockets, absolutely abhor changing lenses, and don't mind a 5X optical zoom limit, perhaps this camera's great image quality will offset its heft and make it a good buy. For everyone outside that narrow subset of photographers, however, there are just too many good enthusiast cameras and affordable D-SLRs to consider spending so much on this one. Save $300 and go with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30, or if you like a wider angle on your zoom, go for the Fuji FinePix S9000. If you've got a thousand bucks to spend on your next camera, though, we suggest making the leap to a D-SLR and picking up the Nikon D50 with two lenses.'

DP Reviews has posted an excellent review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 a digital camera that they obviously like, giving it a rating of 'highly recommended'. They write - 'I'll start as I shall no doubt finish this little piece of editorial, the lens is worth the price of the DSC-R1 alone. That fact is not to be underestimated, it's a great lens which provides you with a very useful 24 - 120 mm zoom range (which will be sufficient for the majority of users). Doing the math it's pretty clear that you have to spend a fairly considerable sum on lenses for a D-SLR to get close to this range and the quality of the DSC-R1's lens.'

Camera Labs reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 and reports - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 is a unique digital camera which not only redefines the all-in-one category, but questions whether you really need a digital SLR. One of the greatest advantages digital SLRs always had over all-in-one models was a larger sensor, allowing high sensitivities and low noise even at high resolutions - but now the R1 offers such a sensor in a sealed body. Couple this with high resolution and an excellent lens and you've got what should be a winning package.'

Popular Photography reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 and writes - 'This camera can handle most situations, including product and nature shots, with ease. The wide-angle lens and accessory-dedicated flash also make it ideal for real estate, insurance, and other business uses. But portrait and sports shooters won't be satisfied with the resolution and response of the R1's EVF, the limited scope of its built-in lens, or the shortcomings of its external flash system.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Sony CyberShot DSC-R1 and writes - 'The R1's Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonar lens is an impressive piece of glass, having an appearance more like a dSLR's interchangeable lenses than the fixed lens of a consumer digicam. It is also versatile, offering a wider field of view than most prosumer digicams at 24mm and a useful telephoto focal length of 120mm; this lens fits what most dSLR users describe as their "walk-around" lens. Its variable aperture is a relatively fast f/2.8 at its 24mm wide angle extreme, but slows to f/4.8 at its 120mm telephoto focal length. The lens produces very sharp results throughout its zoom and aperture ranges, but with a slight amount of edge softness at wide angle with small aperture settings, and at moderate to telephoto focal lengths with moderate to large aperture settings. Chromatic aberrations were well controlled, with only a slight amount of purple fringing present in very high contrast areas. The lens exhibits slight amounts of barrel distortion at wide angle and pin cushioning at moderate focal lengths, but no noticeable distortion at full telephoto. If your needs exceed the 24-120mm focal length range, Sony offers the VCL-DEH17R 1.7X Tele and VCL-DEH08R Wide End Conversion Lenses, extending the R1's range to 19-204mm; neither conversion lens was tested.'

Megapixel reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 and writes - ' The colour reproduction of the R1 is excellent. With the camera set to its default setting for saturation, colours are true-to-life and the image processing avoids making colours overly vibrant. In part this is due to the fact that the Auto white balance is reliable and, works well under varied circumstances. Similarly, the One-Push white balance is very effective and extremely easy to use, thanks to a well-designed system to set a white point under ambient light.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC R1 where they write - 'The Sony Cybershot R1 is far from your average digital camera. It is a definite trendsetter, a digital camera that has noticeably raised the bar another notch for the competition. Not only does the camera radiate quality, it shows it in every aspect and truly deserves all praise. Sony have every right to be pleased with the end result. We can only conclude we were lucky to have had an opportunity to work with such a top quality camera. Hats off to Sony!'

Macworld has a mini review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 where they write - 'If you can live without changing lenses, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 makes a versatile alternative to a digital SLR—albeit at a DSLR price. You’ll get great image quality and wide-angle capability. However, you’ll lose out if typical point-and-shoot features such as a movie mode and voice annotation are important to you.'

DP Expert reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 which they are pretty impressed with. They write - 'The Sony DSC–R1 is a worthy successor to the F828, the best all-in-one camera that we had so far tested. Occasionally a camera comes along that is such a pleasure to use that you find yourself picking it up and looking for subjects just for the fun of it. The R1 inspires confidence that every picture will be sharp, well exposed and accurately coloured. Add to that the quality of construction and the responsive feel of the camera and it gets a high recommendation.'

Digital Camera Info has posted a review of the 10.3 megapixel, 5x Optical Zoom lens Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 Digital Camera where they write - 'The Sony R1 will ultimately serve a small portion of consumers quite well: sightseers, realtors, and those looking for a casual high-performance imager without concern for speed. The quality rivals or surpasses many entry-level DSLR kits and will not disappoint those willing to invest $1,000 for it. Unfortunately, the sharp lens and clean images come at a significant expense. Users will have to sacrifice an optical viewfinder, lens interchangeability, autofocus performance, shooting speed (all around) and durability. While the R1 is not likely to appeal to those graduating from an FZ30 or other ultra zoom model, the camera offers a unique combination of exceptional Zeiss-branded glass and APS-C sized CMOS sensor unavailable on any other model.'

DPexpert has posted a review of the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 where they write - 'The Sony DSC–R1 is a worthy successor to the F828, the best all-in-one camera that we had so far tested. Occasionally a camera comes along that is such a pleasure to use that you find yourself picking it up and looking for subjects just for the fun of it. The R1 inspires confidence that every picture will be sharp, well exposed and accurately coloured. Add to that the quality of construction and the responsive feel of the camera and it gets a high recommendation.'

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Sep 8: Pentax Optio SVi Review - Trusted Reviews

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Pentax Optio SVi and writes - 'An excellent photographer’s camera at a very reasonable price – the SVi has a lot of creative versatility and the image quality to back it up. Superb build quality, nice handling and an attractive design make it an outstanding all-round camera, especially for the more ambitious photographer or newcomer who wants a camera that will let them learn. Very slow start-up, sluggish performance and slow autofocus system are handicaps however.'

Read more about the Pentax Optio SVi

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Sep 7: RICOH Caplio R3

The Ricoh Caplio R3 is official after a couple of weeks of rumors. As we reported previously - the Ricoh Caplio R3 is a 5.13 megapixel camera with a double retracting 7.1x wide angled Optical Zoom lens. This gives user of the R3 the equivelent of a 28-200mm zoom. The lens fully retracts into the body of the camera making the whole unit a very compact camera.

The Ricoh Caplio R3 has vibration correction to combat camera shake, allows macro photos at up to 1cm and Ricoh boasts a shutter lag of just 0.09 seconds. The LCD on the rear of the R3 is 2.5inches which is big enough to display 12 thumbnail prints at once on the screen in playback mode.

The Ricoh Caplio will be available in Black and Silver - stay tuned for price and availability.

Ricoh Caplio R3 Reviews

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Ricoh Caplio R3 digital camera where they write - 'The Ricoh Caplio R3 is an attractively designed and well made camera with a highly unusual list of features, outstanding performance and a very reasonable price tag. The 28-200mm equivalent optical zoom and anti-shake system make it unique, and the exceptionally good macro performance is an added bonus. Picture quality could be better, but on the whole not bad.'

DP Expert reviews the Ricoh Caplio R3 and writes - 'Ricoh’s Caplio R3 is a little 5 megapixel point and shoot camera with a zoom range from 28mm to 200mm film equivalent. This is a long range for a compact camera, making it ideal for the tourist who doesn't want to carry a digital SLR and a bag of lenses.... The Ricoh Caplio R3 is competing with the Canon Ixus 55 which does have an optical viewfinder. Image quality from both cameras is excellent and the Ricoh has the advantage of the 28mm wide angle lens and the vibration correction. Try them both.'

PhotographyBLOG reviews the Ricoh Caplio R3 and writes - 'The Ricoh Caplio R3 is one of the most usable, intuitive and well-designed digital cameras that I have ever reviewed, but at the same time, however, the images that it produces are some of the worst that I have seen. This is even more inexcusable on the R3 because it only has a 5 megapixel sensor, albeit smaller in physical size than the sensor in the GX8. If only Ricoh could solve this seemingly eternal problem and give us a camera that creates good, or even merely average, photographs.'

DigiCamReview has posted a review of the Ricoh Caplio R3 and writes - 'The Ricoh Caplio R3 is a stylish digital camera with a 7.1x wide-angle optical zoom lens packed into a very compact metal body. The 5 megapixel camera features a 2.5" screen and built in vibration correction - this helps produce blur free photos in low light or at full zoom. The camera is very good feature wise, with quick access to options and speedy performance, however the camera is let down by average image quality - as the images produced have high noise, are generally soft, and have higher than average purple fringing. If having a lot of zoom power in a very compact camera is a priority then this is definitely worth considering, but if image quality is a top priority then this camera is best avoided. Ricoh are to be commended for innovation in providing such a large amount of zoom with image stabilsation in such a small and speedy camera, and for that reason I'm giving this camera an above average rating.'

Ricoh Caplio R3 News Release

The Caplio R3: A pocket-sized digital compact that combines the 7.1x optical zoom with vibration control.

London 2005. Ricoh announces the launch of the Caplio R3 compact digital camera. This new model features a 7.1x optical wide zoom - the largest in its class * – and a vibration correction function.

* Among digital cameras lighter than 150g as of Aug 29th

With a smaller body, the new Caplio R3, has a 7.1x (28—200 mm) wide-angle, high-powered zoom lens - the biggest in its class. The lens was created by adopting the newly developed Double Retracting Lens System, an advance on the highly successful Retracting Lens System, the original lens storage system engineered by Ricoh for its innovative products. Moreover, to address blurred images caused by hand movement inherent to long focal ranges, the Caplio R3 avoids this problem in telephoto, macro, or indoor shots with the addition of a vibration correction function.

By letting part of the lens assembly protrude from the camera body during lens storage, the wide-angle, high-powered zoom lens is even more compact.

Ricoh has historically manufactured products based on the concept of Expandability. In addition to the wide-angle high powered zoom, the new Caplio R3 expands the range of shooting even further by employing such enhanced features as 1cm macro function - Ricoh’s specialty - and quick response times.

Main Features for Caplio R3:

7.1x wide zoom lens, largest in its class, in a 26mm body!
The newly developed Double Retracting Lens System allows part of the lens assembly to protrude from the camera body during lens storage. This enables the body, a mere 26 mm, to have a 28–200 mm 7.1x wide zoom lens. (The Caplio R2 has a 28–135 mm 4.8x lens.)

The highly versatile Caplio R3 delivers outstanding results in practically any photographic situation, whether it’s capturing a panoramic landscape in one shot, wide-angle images in a room where everything is very close, or the fine details of distant objects.

28 mm wide angle (focal length) 200 mm telephoto (focal length)
Vibration Correction Function, based on Ricoh’s original CCD shift method.
Whenever it detects excessive camera motion, the vibration correction system, developed from Ricoh’s original CCD shift method, moves the CCD in the opposite direction to counterbalance camera shake, resulting in sharp pictures that would have been blurred otherwise.

As it is not necessary to incorporate the vibration correction system into the lens, many lens design options, were available, facilitating the design of a slim body and a wide to long telephoto range lens.

The Caplio R3 shows its effectiveness best in high-powered telephoto, macro, or indoor shots without using flash. Once again the vibration correction function allows for sharp images that would not be possible otherwise.

The macro function, a Ricoh specialty, has been strengthened.
The camera’s macro mode, can take a macro shot of an object from just 1 cm away.

The new zoom macro function automatically sets the focal distance of the lens at the optimum distance for capturing an image of each object as large and close as possible.

If AF Target Selection is used, it is even possible to focus on objects within the frame without moving the camera. By determining the optimum field of view, taking into consideration such information as the size or contrast of the object, focusing accuracy becomes that much higher when shooting in macro.

The skew correction function.
Through an original algorithm, which automatically detects trapezoids in images and corrects them to rectangles, images of such things as blackboards, documents, or time schedules shot at any angle can be corrected so that the image looks as though it were shot from the front. The camera is most effective in business environments where blackboards, overhead projector, OHPs, time schedules; signs, etc. cannot be shot from the front.

The popular high-speed response capability enables stress-free shooting.
Release time lag (the time from the instant the shutter button is fully pressed—without using focus lock—until exposure actually starts) is as fast as approx. 0.09sec. on average. Quick responses are essential in order to capture picture-perfect but near-instantaneous moments such as the expressions and movement of children or pets. Now stress-free, near-instantaneous shots are possible.

Time calculated from the instant the focus is locked (half-press) until exposure actually starts is a miraculous 0.007 seconds on average.

Shooting interval and start time are both rapid, approx. 0.5 and 1.1 seconds, respectively (measured while the flash is off).

The long-life rechargeable battery, a standard accessory, lets you shoot approx. 310 pictures.
Thanks to the power-saving features of the internal circuit, it is possible to capture up to 310 separate images under CIPA standards using the standard accessory rechargeable battery even while using the large LCD display.

The 5.13 million square pixel CCD and original image processing system enables shooting of high-definition pictures.

The CCD is effective up to 5.13 million square pixels with the Smooth Imaging Engine image processing system. Combined with the vibration correction function, representative, superior, high-definition images can be created. It is possible to select a 35mm aspect ratio (the horizontal to vertical ratio of the image) of 3:2.

High operational performance.
The Caplio R3 has an easy-to-see 2.5-inch large-scale LCD monitor.
During playback, 12 pictures can be displayed simultaneously on the large screen. While checking previous and subsequent pictures, the screen can be separated into three parts to allow fast forwarding and rewinding.

The brightness of the LCD can be increased to maximum with a single touch and visibility can be adjusted to suit well-lighted areas.

A design combining style with portability.
The design combines functionality and texture with such features as a comfortable grip, easy-to-use controls, high-grade materials, surface finishing, and a compact body of 95 mm (W) x 53 mm (H) x 26 mm (D).

Price and Availability:

The Caplio R3 will be available in both black and silver colour. Price to be confirmed.

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Sep 7: Olympus Stylus 800 Review - CNET

CNET Reviews has a review of the Olympus Stylus 800 digital camera where they give it a rating of 'Good' (6.6) and write - 'With 8 megapixels, aperture- and shutter-priority exposure controls, and a top-notch built-in help guide, the compact, 3X-zoom Stylus 800 sits solidly at the top of Olympus's weather-resistant-camera lineup. It's also one of the smallest and most affordable 8-megapixel cameras on the market. But if you are opting for a high-resolution model because you have poster-making aspirations, you'll need to save some money and step up to a more advanced 8-megapixel model; the Olympus Stylus 800's photos are generally good enough for 8x10 prints, but we wouldn't suggest blowing them up.'

Read more about the Olympus Stylus 800

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Sep 7: Pentax *istDL Review - Digital Camera Info

Digital Camera Info reviews the Pentax *istDL Digital Camera and writes - 'The *istDL is a reasonable entry in the entry level DSLR market. The camera's most unique features in that market, the 2.5-inch LCD and the ISO 3200 setting, are real strengths. For some shoppers, they should be enough to decide the issue. The *istDL's other good qualities – very solid construction, relatively small size and clean design – are not unique in the market, but they are still very attractive.'

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Sep 7: Mastering Color Controls - Digital Camera Tip

PC Magazine has a tip on Mastering Color Controls on your Digital Camera that is worth a read:

'Digital cameras are not that smart. They photograph exactly what they see. In the case of the rose in the dark room, the camera would probably capture something close to black, with varying levels of maroon. Just how much black or dark red is captured will depend upon that particular digital camera's ability to distinguish details in shadows. To make up for their lack of human intelligence, digital cameras have complex internal programming (algorithms), plus a variety of powerful interactive tools and features, to fine-tune the way they capture color....'

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Sep 5: Canon Powershot SD500 - IXUS 700 Review - Megapixel

Megapixel reviews the Canon SD500/IXUS 700 and writes - 'Photos captured over the entire focal length ranges reveal a solid performance overall, but also that focus is at its softest at the widest angle.

Distortion, on the other hand, is minimal at both ends of the range — pincushion is negligible at the telephoto end and barrelling is never obvious at the wide end — and moreover, images are normally free of any chromatic aberration.

Similarly, although sharpness is a bit softer at the wide end, images show that it is even across the field of view captured by the lens.'

Read more about the Canon SD500 - IXUS 700

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Sep 4: HP PhotoSmart R817 Review - Steves Digicams

Steves Digicams reviews the HP PhotoSmart R817 and writes - 'Image quality was what we have come to expect from HP. When using its 5M *** mode, it produces sharp images with great exposure and color saturation. Its 5x optical zoom lens offers a more versatile range when compared to typical 3x zoom digicams. I did notice an average amount of noise in High/Low contrast areas (especially at higher ISOs), but nothing that will be visible in your average 4x6 to 8x10-inch prints. Like we experienced with past models, the Adaptive Lighting feature is very useful when shooting either indoors or outdoors; when using it, the camera increases the gamma of the image to better enhance the detail of objects in low contrast (shadow) areas. I was a bit surprised that noise levels were considerably lower than what we had seen from its predecessors.'

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Sep 4: Canon EOS 5D Review - Luminous Landscape

Luminous Landscape has a first impressions review of the Canon EOS 5D which includes image samples from the 5D. 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.'

Read more about 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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Sep 4: HP Photosmart M517 and R817 Review - Byte Sector

Byte Sector reviews the HP Photosmart M517 & R817 digital cameras and writes - 'Both cameras deliver average image quality, with the R817 having an advantage over the M517. This is because of its more diverse picture and exposure capabilities, extra built in imaging technologies, and better lens. However, both cameras share the same problem; they both lack a steady feature to eliminate blurring when you use a slow shutter speed or no flash. This is especially disappointing in the R817 because it is able to go down to ISO 50.'

Read more about the HP Photosmart M517 and the HP Photosmart R817

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Sep 4: Kodak EasyShare V550 Review - CNET Reviews

CNET Reviews the Kodak EasyShare V550 and writes - 'With its ice-blue indicator lights and included flying-saucer-shaped dock, the 5-megapixel Kodak EasyShare V550 brings some much-needed style to Kodak's line of point-and-shoot cameras. Equipped with friendly features, the V550 will appeal to those who want portability and simplicity wrapped in an attractive package.

This model costs only $50 more than the EasyShare V530, its slightly smaller but technically identical sibling, which is available in red and pink as well as the V550's black and silver. It also offers a larger 2.5-inch LCD (as opposed to the V530's 2-inch display) and an optical viewfinder. Although the viewfinder is too small and crops your view too tightly to be really useful, we think the extra $50 is worth it for the larger LCD.'

Read more about the Kodak EasyShare V550

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Sep 4: Fujifilm Memory Stick Range

Fujifilm News Release

Introduction of full Memory Stick range completes Fujifilm’s media card line-up

Fujifilm now offers professional photographers and consumers every digital memory card format on the market

Fujifilm, already the market leader in memory cards for digital devices, has announced the introduction of the Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick Pro and Memory Stick Duo Pro to its range. The additions complete Fujifilm’s media card offering, which now includes every format available on the market.

The Memory Stick Duo is part of Fujifilm’s consumer range of memory cards, which also includes CompactFlash, MemoryStick, xD-Picture Card, MMCMobile, MiniSD and standard SD cards. The card can be used in a range of consumer devices, from digital cameras to the much-anticipated Sony PSP.

The Memory Stick Pro and Memory Stick Duo Pro fall within Fujifilm’s range of memory cards for professional photographers. The formats excel at moving data very quickly, and offer users with Memory Stick-compatible devices the very best in terms of transfer speed to and from the card.

The Memory Stick Pro and Duo Pro are capable of withstanding the most demanding of photographic and digital applications. They join the CompactFlash 40x, 100x and 133x, and Standard SD card, 60x and 133x speeds, in Fujifilm’s Professional memory card range.

Adrian Clarke, Fujifilm’s Director of Photo Products, said, “The Sony PSP will be incredibly popular in the UK, which means that there will be even more demand than ever for the Memory Stick format. With the introduction of Memory Stick to its range, Fujifilm now offers every single media card format available on the market.

”When consumers need storage media, all they need do is look out for the Fujifilm brand. With such an array of memory cards on the market, and the increasing amount of devices requiring them, being able to look out for a single, reliable and high quality brand greatly simplifies the choice for consumers.“

Information on capacities available for each memory card format is available at:
http://www.fujifilm.co.uk/digital/accessories/storage_media/

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Sep 4: Which Digital Camera?

The Seattle Times has an article this weekend that attempts to answer the question of - Which digital camera is right for you?

'But their mass-market status doesn't change the fact that digital cameras remain computers with lenses, and they require some of the same careful shopping. Where the big number in computers is processor speed, in digital cameras it's megapixels — millions of picture elements of resolution. And it's almost as easy to go overboard on resolution as on processor speed.

You need at least 3 megapixels, which will allow good 4-by-6 prints and uncropped 8-by-10 blowups. Stepping up to 4 megapixels increases your odds of getting a quality 8-by-10; five adds the option of still larger blowups. But don't buy more than that unless you crop your photos with an ax instead of a scalpel or routinely order massive blowups; the larger files generated by 6- or 7-megapixel cameras will only fill your storage card faster and slow transfers of pictures to a computer....'

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Sep 1: Nikon Coolpix L1

The Nikon Coolpix L1 is a six megapixel digital camera with a 5x Optical Zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD. It features SD/MMC card, 10 megabytes of internal memory and In-Camera Red-Eye Fix.

The Nikon Coolpix L1 will be in stores later in September and will retail for $349.95 (USD).

Compare prices on the Nikon Coolpix L1 and get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix L1

Nikon Coolpix L1 Reviews

Steves Digicams reviews the Nikon Coolpix L1 and writes - 'For creative freedom to compose shots, the 5x optical, 38-190mm Zoom Nikkor lens (35mm equivalent) lets users zoom in for tight portraits or zoom out to capture wide-open scenery. The L1 can compensate for insufficient flash or excessive backlighting with the touch of a button, the D-Lighting function will add detail and brighten the image where necessary. The Face-Priority AF function is able to automatically detect the location of a human face within the frame, providing sharp focus on it to produce sharp, clear portraits wherever the subject is positioned in the frame. The In-Camera Red-Eye Fix� technology automatically detects and corrects red eyes in an image while Blur Warning will alert the user that a shot has been compromised allowing for it to be retaken before leaving the scene.'

CNET reviews the Nikon Coolpix L1 which they give a rating of 6.6 out of 10. They write - "The 6-megapixel Nikon Coolpix L1 is a bare-bones, pocket-size camera that delivers slow performance but very good photos for snapshooters who don't mind the slightly high price. More advanced users looking for manual settings such as ISO sensitivity and exposure parameters should consider other cameras. The same goes for parents who want to snap toddlers or sports matches."

Imaging Resource reviews the Nikon Coolpix L1 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix L1 continues that trend with a 6.2-megapixel CCD and firmware goodies like Face Priority AF, D-Lighting and BSS while simplifying the user interface. The Coolpix L1 is a good choice for anyone who wants an easy to use camera that delivers good-looking pictures with pleasing color and plenty of resolution. For those willing to delve just slightly deeper than "just pushing the button," its extensive scene modes and unique framing-assist options greatly extend the camera's capabilities, making it easy to bring back good-looking shots of what might otherwise be difficult subjects. And if you forget what an option does, help is only a button press away with the Guide feature. While we liked The Coolpix L1's rich and very practically-oriented feature set, we would have liked the camera much more if it had done better under dim lighting, and if its shutter response had been a bit faster. '

Megapixel reviews the 6.2 megapixel Nikon Coolpix L1 and comments - 'Clearly aimed at the point-and-shoot market, the Coolpix L1 does not offer any advanced shooting modes. Instead, 15 Scene programs are available, covering a range of common subjects and scenes which offer additional flexibility beyond what is offered by the Auto mode. Just like its external controls, the options offered on the L1 are fairly basic, even when the camera is used in Auto mode, the shooting mode that has the greatest flexibility, allowing the user to control exposure compensation, white balance, metering mode, and auto focus mode.'

Nikon Coolpix L1 News Release

NIKON'S NEW COOLPIX L1 POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA COMBINES SOPHISTICATED FEATURES WITH A 5X OPTICAL ZOOM

New Six-Megapixel Compact Camera Delivers Impressive Functions with Easy-to-Use Operation

Joining Nikon's award winning Coolpix line of compact digital cameras is the new Coolpix L1. Compact and lightweight, the six-megapixel L1 offers 5x optical zoom performance, an incredibly, bright 2.5-inch LCD, and a host of advanced in-camera features for crisp, clear photos with the press of a button.

"The Coolpix L1 is an ideal camera for the first-time through step up user." says Bill Giordano, General Manager of Marketing for Nikon, Inc. "Not only does this camera take fantastic pictures, but it actually helps users compose shots, fix red-eye, compensate for undesirable lighting conditions, and much more."

For creative freedom to compose shots, the 5x optical, 38-190mm Zoom Nikkor lens (35mm equivalent) lets users zoom in for tight portraits or zoom out to capture wide-open scenery. A newly designed 1/2.5-inch CCD delivers high 6-megapixel performance within smaller dimensions contributing to the highly portable and compact dimensions of the camera.

True to the entire Coolpix line for 2005, the L1 gives users the power to improve and fix recorded images in-camera with ease using Nikon’s exclusive suite of technology. To compensate for insufficient flash or excessive backlighting with the touch of a button, the D-Lighting function will add detail and brighten the image where necessary. The Face-Priority AF function is able to automatically detect the location of a human face within the frame, providing sharp focus on it to produce sharp, clear portraits wherever the subject is positioned in the frame. The In-Camera Red-Eye Fix technology automatically detects and corrects red eyes in an image while Blur Warning will alert the user that a shot has been compromised allowing for it to be retaken before leaving the scene.

The newly-designed GUI (Graphic User Interface) enables users to select functions either by name or icon. And, the Help button can be pressed to display simple explanations for functions in the main menu.

With a choice a 15 Scene Modes, the L1 gives users the ability to achieve crisp, clear images in a variety of situations such as Beach/Snow, Fireworks, Museum, Party/Indoor and more. Four of the Scene Modes offer Scene Assist to help compose shots for optimal results. To capture moving memories, Movie Mode will record at up to 30 fps with sound.

The Coolpix L1 features a curved grip for comfortable, stable shooting and is highly portable-- measuring just 3.5 x 2.4 x 1.9-inches and weighing just over six ounces*-- making it the ideal travel companion for consumers on-the-go. The L1 also includes a large, bright 2.5-inch LCD for easy viewing in a variety of lighting conditions.

Additionally, the L1 includes handy features such as Best Shot Selector (BSS), 4x digital zoom, Single and Continuous AF, Choice of White Balance and Noise reduction to ensure better color reproduction in darker lighting conditions. Consumers can record images to an SD Card or onto the 10 MB of internal memory. For added convenience, the L1 uses two AA-size batteries and comes included with PictureProject Software.

The L1 will be available in September 2005 with an MSRP of $349.95.

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Sep 1: Nikon Coolpix S3

The Nikon Coolpix S3 is an update of the previously successful Coolpix S1. It features a 6 megapixel sensor, 3x Optical Zoom lens, 2.5inch LCD and matt black finish.

The Nikon Coolpix S3 will be in stores this month and will retail for $429.95 (USD).

Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix S3

Nikon Coolpix S3 Reviews

Lets Go Digital reviews the Nikon Coolpix S3 and writes - '"The Nikon Coolpix S3 is a logical step from the last model, the Nikon Coolpix S2. Nikon has lifted the resolution to 6 Megapixels and therefore leaves the 5 Megapixels behind and with it the lower resolution class. At this moment, various manufacturers do have a stylish designer camera in their assortment with resolutions ranging from 5 to 8 Megapixels. The concept of the Coolpix S-series seems to have settled in strongly and I may say: the design is very successful. The size is ideal for taking the camera with you in your smallest sized pocket. Personally I find the Nikon S3 the perfect combination of Design and Ease of use, with an excellent size LCD monitor and a beautiful and user-friendly design at the same time. What more do we want...?"'

Steves Digicams reviews the Nikon Coolpix S3 and writes - 'The Coolpix S3 shares with its Coolpix S1 sibling the honor of being the most compact point-n-shoot digicam that Nikon has to offer.... The Coolpix S3 has a lot of appeal to those wanting ease of use and good image quality in a very small package. It offers several unique features that distinguish it from the competition, including D-lighting, Red Eye Fix and Best Shot Selector. At a street price of around $300, it's a fairly good value for families who can live with the S3's limited flash range and sub-par movie quality.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Nikon Coolpix S3 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Coolpix S3 packs a lot of features into its small case, including a 6.0-megapixel CCD with 3x zoom lens, and a large 2.5-inch LCD. Its build is solid, with no creaks, and has a pleasant heft. All the controls and features--with the exception of the SD card door--are well-constructed and give the camera a feel of quality. The Nikon S3 shares some common limitations with other tiny subcompact models, like limited battery life and a tendency to produce soft corners in its images, but these shortcomings represent more or less universal tradeoffs required by the tiny form factor. The Coolpix S3 delivers very bright, snappy-looking photos with vibrant, hue-accurate color and good detail for making large prints. The S3's very bright color will appeal to the majority of consumers, but may be a bit much for those accustomed to the more restrained color of higher-end and professional digital camera models.'

Nikon Coolpix S3 News Release

NEW COOLPIX S3 DIGITAL CAMERA PUTS SIX STYLISH MEGAPIXELS IN YOUR POCKET

Building on the popularity of the S Series of Coolpix digital cameras, Nikon today introduced the new Coolpix S3 - a 6-megapixel camera that delivers high shooting power and image quality in a sleek and ultra-portable package. Like the Coolpix S1 and S2 before it, the new Matte Black Metal-body Coolpix S3 boasts a 2.5inch LCD screen and Nikon's exclusive feature system, including D-Lighting for fixing dark pictures in the camera, the exclusive Face Priority AF (Auto Focus) for automatic face-finding focus and getting great portraits and In-Camera Red-Eye Fix to remove most instances of red-eye in the camera. The Coolpix S3 provides consumers with top-notch performance and the look to match.

"The new Coolpix S3 provides Nikon's state-of-the-art technology to consumers in a shirt pocket sized design that offers efficient and responsive shooting for all levels of photographers," said Bill Giordano, General Manager of Marketing for Nikon, Inc. "The Coolpix S3's intuitive features make the camera a perfect choice for consumers looking to capture those unexpected moments - and look good doing so."

Improved Performance for Great Pictures
More efficiency and fast performance can only mean one thing – more shots! With the ability to take up to 190 shots from the included rechargeable Li-ion battery*, improved start-up time, and continuous shooting mode, the new Coolpix S3 allows for more shots to be captured than ever before. This superior engineering is paired with a range of Nikon’s unique in-camera functions and 17 different scene modes that help make a perfect moment into a perfect photo with the click of a button.

More Features in a Sleek, Compact Design –

* 6.0 effective megapixels
* 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED Glass lens with a focal range equivalent to that of a 35-105mm lens in 35mm format
* Compact dimensions of (W x H x D – 3.5 x 2.3 x 0.8 inches)
* Light weight of approx 4.2 oz. (without battery and memory card)
* BSS (Best-Shot Selector) chooses best exposure automatically from ten (10) sequential shots
* COOLSTATION MV-11 cradle included for easy downloading of images and recharging the battery in the camera
* Single AF and Continuous AF can be selected in Movie Mode
* 256-segment Matrix Metering, Center-weighted, and Spot AF metering in certain Scene Modes
* 7 manual white balance settings and White Balance Bracketing
* Direct printing with PictBridge compatibility
* 4 of the 17 Scene Modes offer Scene Assist (Portrait, Night Portrait, Sports, Landscape)
* World Time function allows local time to be set easily anywhere in the world
* USB compatibility enables swift transfer of image data to computers
* Voice memo function records up to 20 seconds of sound that can then be attached to an image
* 4x digital zoom capability
* Choice of Single AF and Continuous AF
* Options for playback: Single, 4- and 9-segment thumbnail, Slideshow, 10x magnification
* Built-in Speedlight: features settings for Auto, Red-eye Reduction by pre-flash, Anytime flash, Flash cancel and Slow sync.

The Coolpix S3 will be available nationwide in September 2005 at an MSRP of $429.95.

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Sep 1: Nikon Coolpix S4

The Nikon Coolpix S4 is a 6 megapixel digital camera in the old swivel style that Nikon Coolpix S series cameras became known for back a few years ago. It has a 10x Optical Zoom which will be attractive to many as they've maintained a fair compact camera with this one. I'm not sure there are any cameras going around with this type of zoom at this size.

The LCD is 2.5 inches and features Nikon's 'blur detection' and 'best shot' functions to work against camera shake (althought its not true image stabilization).

Expect to see the Nikon Coolpix S4 in shops this month retailing for a price of $399.95 (USD).

Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix S4 6MP Digital Camera

Nikon Coolpix S4 Reviews

Megapixel reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 and writes - 'The Coolpix S4 makes no pretence at being something other than an easy to use point-and-shoot. Its most "advanced" mode is the Auto mode, and even it provides only a few user controls — seven in the menu to be exact — over the way the image is captured. Moreover, of these only three directly affect the way the camera captures the image: white balance, exposure compensation, and sensitivity, the others being more tools to maximize picture taking.'

Lets Go Digital has a preview/review of the Nikon Coolpix S4 where they write - "The Nikon S4 pleases me tremendously. The practical concept of the tilting lens that Nikon scored with on the Coolpix 4500 and 995, is familiar and trusty. It offers every possibility to shoot from any imaginable position. The optical range from 38-380mm (equivalent of a 35mm camera) covers a huge area offered by a rather compact size camera. As far as operation and possibilities are concerned, the Nikon Coolpix S4 is a lot alike the other Nikon cameras that were introduced. The menu is neatly arranged and is easy to navigate. The pre-programmed scenes are well-known but the combination of scenes and composing-assistant; "In Camera Red Eye removal" and Face Priority AF are strong trumps that lift the Coolpix S4 camera to a higher level of user friendliness. The large size LCD monitor (2.5 inch) offers excellent rendering and is a good replacement for the ever too small optical viewfinder.."

Imaging Resource reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 and writes - 'Returning to the tried-and-true swivel lens design that proved so popular in early Coolpix models, Nikon introduces the Coolpix S4. The new "twist" is that this twist packs a whopping 10x optical zoom into a small camera body. The Nikon S4 features the same swivel lens design that differentiated past Coolpix models from the digital camera pack, a design that lets you point the lens in almost any direction without losing your LCD monitor view. Though a little long for most average shirt pockets, the Nikon S4 is still fairly compact, especially considering the 10x lens it boasts. Measuring 4.4 x 2.7 x 1.4 inches (111.5 x 68.5 x 87 millimeters) with the lens in its storage position, the S4 weighs only 7.2 ounces (205 grams) without lens cap, batteries, or memory card. Since the Nikon S4 has only a tiny ridge on the front panel for a handgrip, I recommend keeping the included wrist strap securely around your wrist when shooting. The camera's plastic lens cover is actually hinged on the side of the lens, with a flip-open design. When opened, the cover itself can fold backward and out of the way, and its attachment to the lens barrel means you need not worry about losing it accidentally. The camera's silver body is smooth, attractive and fairly simple, housing a 6.0-megapixel CCD that captures high quality images. Other noteworthy features of the Nikon S4 include a macro mode capable of focusing as close 1.6 inches, and no fewer than 16 preset shooting modes. Since the camera operates mainly under automatic control, its control layout and menu display are very user friendly.'

CNET reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 and writes - ' Veteran digital shooters waxing nostalgic for the Nikon Coolpix 900 series will cheer for the Coolpix S4's resurrection of the swivel lens after nearly three years. The S4 comes in a more compact package, with 6-megapixel resolution, a 10X zoom lens, a 2.5-inch LCD, and Nikon's signature ease-of-use features. But a lack of manual controls makes this compact snapshot camera a poor choice for shooting indoors or on the soccer field.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 and writes - 'The Coolpix S4 features a powerful 10x optical zoom, six megapixels of resolution and a large 2.5-inch LCD, all housed in a compact body that fits into a shirt pocket. The powerful optical zoom combined with the swiveling body design of the camera gives digital photographers unprecedented freedom and creativity with the ability to take pictures from a wide range of angles such as from the hip, self-portraits and even from overhead.'

DCRP Reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 and writes - 'Ultimately the Coolpix S4 is an average camera in a sea of excellent ones. It's unique design allows for some creative shooting, and it's a heck of a lot smaller than any other ultra zoom. At the same time, there are better ultra zoom cameras out there, offering manual controls, image stabilization, expandability, and more. For those who value the S4's form over its features, it's worth a look.'

PC Mag reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 digital camera and writes - 'Nikon's latest superzoom, the Nikon Coolpix S4, is designed so that the lens and the body can rotate independently of each other. This swiveling design was first introduced on the Coolpix 900 a number of years ago, and the last Nikon to have it was the 4X optical Coolpix 4500. It's a wonderful design, especially useful for Hail Mary shots or shooting over crowds. Unfortunately, we found the pictures taken with the S4 to be a bit disappointing.'

Digital Camera Info reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 and writes - 'The Coolpix S4 is clearly a snapshooter’s camera, though one with an extended lens. It's not a DSLR replacement – there's no pretense that the S4 is a viable alternative to a Nikon D50 or a Canon Digital Rebel. It lacks the speed, image quality, and control of those cameras, and it doesn't offer the stuff strong ultra zoom cameras can lord over DSLRs: image stabilization and a useful video mode.'

Pocket-lint reviews the Nikon Coolpix 7600 and writes - 'Compact, easy to use and capable of surprisingly good results, the Coolpix 7600 should be on your list if you’re looking at a basic, high-resolution digital camera. It may not have the panache of some more stylish models available and have a couple of sluggish handling foibles, but this pocketable little camera is more than capable of dealing with most shooting situations any self-respecting ‘snapper’ could throw at it. '

Nikon Coolpix S4 News Release

NEW NIKON COOLPIX S4 PACKS A 10X OPTICAL ZOOM INTO A CAMERA THAT FITS IN A SHIRT POCKET

Nikon announced today the addition of the latest Coolpix “S” series camera to their impressive fall line-up of compact cameras. The new Coolpix S4 features an incredible 10x optical zoom, six megapixels of resolution, a 2.5“ LCD and an innovative, compact design allowing the camera to fit into a shirt pocket. The powerful optical zoom combined with the innovative body design of the camera gives digital photographers unprecedented freedom and creativity with the ability to take pictures from a wide range of angles such as from the hip, self portraits and even from overhead.

“The S4 is a stylish camera that combines the power of a 10x optical zoom, distinctive body design and Nikon’s exclusive in-camera technology,” said Bill Giordano, General Manager of Marketing for Nikon, Inc. “This model is an excellent choice for digital photographers who want creative freedom while on-the-go.”

To capture everything from extreme close-ups to detailed architecture or even expansive landscapes, the 10x Zoom Nikkor lens delivers 38-380mm (35mm equivalent) performance all in slim, compact package measuring a mere 4.4 x 2.7 x 1.4-inches and weighting just over seven ounces*—small enough to easily fit in a shirt pocket. The 10x optical zoom give users the freedom and power to shoot from the sidelines or compose great portraits in one compact package.

The S4 features a new interpretation of the popular and innovative swivel body design, first unveiled in the award-winning Coolpix 900 series cameras. The body design allows the lens and the 2.5-inch LCD to move independently so users can view their shot from any angle. For comfortable shooting, the S4 features a newly designed hand grip as well as conveniently placed buttons and controls.

In addition to a stylish package and impressive zoom, the S4 comes packed with innovative and advanced features for beginning through advanced photographers. Using exclusive technology, Nikon has narrowed the picture-taking process down to three simple steps – turn on the camera, frame the shot and snap the picture. To ensure a sharp portrait with the press of a button Face Priority AF ensures that faces remain in focus when shooting portraits by automatically sensing the presence of a human face within the frame and setting accurate focus accordingly. Nikon’s renowned In-Camera Red-Eye Fix technology detects and corrects red eyes in most typical situations without the need to press buttons or select and highlight the eyes in playback. Without the hassle of additional software, photographers will experience less red-eye photos yielding print-ready portraits.

To help ensure a balanced exposure and sharpness, Nikon’s exclusive D-Lighting function automatically compensates for insufficient flash or excessive back lighting in order to obtain balanced exposure throughout the frame. Blur Warning, another feature unique to Nikon alerts the user when a shot is compromised by camera or hand shake, allowing another shot to be taken before leaving the scene.

The S4 features 16 Scene Modes with four of them offering Scene Assist to simplify shooting in common situations. To capture moving memories the S4 features four Movie Modes at up to 15 fps with three of the modes offering sound recording. And, the Time-Lapse movie function can capture action taking place over extended periods of time.

Additionally, the S4 includes helpful functions such as: Best Shot Selector (BSS), Macro mode, 4x Digital Zoom, Single AF and Continuous AF and choice of White Balance.

For further convenience the S4 includes 13.5 MB of internal memory and operates on two AA-size alkaline or rechargeable batteries.

The S4 will be available at retail nationwide in September 2005 with an MSRP of $399.95.

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Sep 1: Nikon Coolpix P2

The Nikon Coolpix P2 is the little brother of the P1 and again is WI-FI equipped for the transmission of images via 802.11b and 802.11g-compatible wireless networks. It has a 5 megapixel sensor, 3.5x Optical Zoom, 2.5inch LCD, silver casing (the P1 is black).

The Nikon Coolpix P2 will hit stores later this month and will retail at $399.95 (USD)

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Nikon Coolpix P2 and P1 News Release

NIKON ANNOUNCES WORLD'S FIRST BUILT-IN, WI-FI -ENABLED COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERAS

Two New Coolpix Models Combine the Performance of Wi-Fi Capability with Nikon's Exclusive Imaging Technology

Nikon is redefining the digital camera shooting experience with the announcement of two new revolutionary Wi-Fi enabled models. The Coolpix P1 and P2 are the world's first built-in Wi-Fi-enabled digital cameras to hit the marketplace. These groundbreaking cameras allow consumers to immediately transmit images wirelessly directly to a computer or to any PictBridge-enabled printer equipped with the optional Nikon Wireless Printer Adapter (PD-10), for wireless printing.

"The new Coolpix P1 and P2 literally pull the plug on digital imaging while highlighting Nikon's commitment to providing consumers with the latest in digital imaging technology" says Bill Giordano, General Manager of Marketing for Nikon, Inc. "These models give consumers the freedom, with the push of a button, to immediately share and print their images like never before."

The Coolpix eight-megapixel P1 and the five-megapixel P2 are the world's first digital cameras with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities to transmit images via 802.11b and 802.11g-compatible wireless networks and adapters to a computer or most PictBridge-enabled printers equipped with the new Nikon Wireless Printer Adapter (PD-10). Eliminating the need for extra wires or cables, the new models allow consumers to send images from the camera direct to a selected computer or printer with the touch of a button. With a range of up to 100 feet*, the P1 and P2 enable users to transfer images on-the-go from almost anywhere in a home, office, even from the backyard. Offering unprecedented freedom and convenience, users can wirelessly transfer and view images in a variety of ways, including:

* Shoot and Transfer Mode: As images are taken, they are transferred immediately to the computer. With Nikon's Picture Project software, slide shows can be automatically built with the transferred images added as they are being shot.
* Easy Transfer Mode: Images can be transferred by a specific date, individually as marked or manually transferred to a computer after they are taken. In this mode only new images will be transferred to eliminate duplication.
* Wireless Print: Using the optional Wireless Printer Adapter (PD-10), users can wirelessly print directly from the camera (without a computer) or when using the included PictureProject 1.6 software, images can be sent to the computer and automatically printed.

Nikon Coolpix P1 and P2 cameras and PictureProject software work together seamlessly to make wireless photo transfer as easy as 1-2-3. For easy set-up and control, the P1 and P2 come with a complimentary copy of Nikon PictureProject 1.6 and the new easy-to-use Wireless Camera Setup Utility, which uses a simple seven-step Wizard that will configure the cameras for wireless operation. The latest version of PictureProject offers convenient options allowing users, for example, to import wireless images automatically into a slideshow as well as tools to edit, organize, design and share images. The software is designed to extend the enjoyment of taking pictures: transferring images from camera to computer, organizing images so they are easy to find, editing them to add an extra sparkle, designing ways to show off the pictures and sharing them with friends and family.

At the heart of the new models is Nikon's innovative and exclusive suite of in-camera technology that makes it easy to capture great pictures before they leave the camera. To ensure sharp images, the Face-Priority AF function makes certain that faces remain in focus when shooting portraits by automatically sensing the presence of a human face within the frame and setting accurate focus accordingly. The In-Camera Red-Eye Fix technology automatically detects and corrects red eyes in an image while the D-Lighting function automatically compensates for insufficient flash or excessive backlighting. To ensure a crisp, clear image before leaving the scene, Blur Warning will alert the user that a shot has been compromised.

True to the line of Nikon cameras, the Coolpix P1 and P2 offer a high-quality 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor Glass lens with a focal range equivalent to that of a 36-126mm lens in 35mm format. For greater control and creativity, both models feature Aperture-Priority Auto mode with 10-step manual control in 1/3EV increments and 11 of the camera's 16 Scene Modes are Advanced Scene modes for even greater creative control of the end result.

The Coolpix P1 and P2 can record high-quality movies at a rate of up to 30 fps with a choice of seven movie modes with sound recording in six of those modes. A Time-Lapse function enables the user to capture events occurring over an extended period of time.

The newly designed models are compact and lightweight, measuring just 3.6 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches and weighing six ounces* and offer an incredible, bright 2.5-inch LCD for easy viewing in all conditions.

The Coolpix P1 and P2 will be available in September 2005 with a MSRP of $549.95 and $399.95, respectively. The Wireless Print Adaptor (PD-10) will be available in October 2005 with an MSRP of $49.95.

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Nikon Coolpix P2 Reviews

Pocket-lint reviews the Nikon Coolpix P2 and writes - 'the 5.1-megapixel P2 packs a punch in terms of built-in kit for your cash not found on such svelte snappers, including a neat 36-126mm, F2.7, 3.5x optical zoom Nikkor lens which works a treat, providing punchy and crisp images.... Nikon’s P2 offers some great shooting features and the convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity but in a rather bland looking package. That said it takes great pictures and is easy to use (bar the Wi-Fi fiddles I had) but at the end of the day that is what counts in my book, which is why I can heartily recommend this camera. '

Megapixel reviews the Nikon Coolpix P2 and writes - 'Like the competition, which stands out by providing a longer than average zoom, or a more compact size for instance, the Coolpix P2, and its 8-megapixel twin the P1, offer a slightly longer than normal 3.5X zoom, a 2.5-inch monitor, and adds a Wi-Fi capability, one of only a handful of cameras to offer it. At a glance, the advantage of being able to link the camera to a wireless LAN is not obvious. After all, a USB cable — which also comes with the P2 — is just as simple, and USB 2.0 has a faster transfer speed.'

Cameras.co.uk reviews the Nikon Coolpix P2 and writes - 'With this camera you have the option of using a menu made up of icons or the normal text design. Whichever one you choose it should not take you long to find what you are looking for. The camera carries a standard set of buttons. On the back of the camera you will find controls for flash, zoom, self timer and macro, as well as reviewing and deleting images. On the top of the camera is a control dial letting you select the camera mode. This covers items such as scene mode, movie mode, wireless transfer, movie mode and automatic mode.... There is a lot to like about the Nikon Coolpix P2. I was impressed by the picture quality it produces and it is also the first consumer camera to offer wi-fi. Incorporating this latest technology understandably increases the price and you will need to decide how important this is to you before you go ahead and buy this camera. '

Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Nikon Coolpix P2 Digital Camera where they recommend - 'The Nikon P2 is an excellent camera with a long features list, large LCD, above average movie mode, and wonderful wireless. With the exception of some hiccups getting wireless in gear and a strange and non-intuitive interface, I can recommend the P2 for its simplicity and picture quality.'

ePhotozine reviews the Nikon Coolpix P2 and writes - 'There is no doubt that this is a quality, feature packed digital camera. The image quality and vast array of menus and features create plenty of opportunities for create photography, whether you are an advanced photographer or not. The camera is also built well, with a very well thought out design, making control of the cameras huge set of features a doddle.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Nikon Coolpix P2 Digital Camera and writes - 'Will WiFi-connected cameras be the next big wave in the digital camera market? Maybe... and maybe not. Regardless of whether they'll ever achieve dominance though, it's clear that we're going to see more of them appearing over the next year or two. The Nikon Coolpix P2 is part of that company's first effort at a consumer-level WiFi camera (along with its 8-megapixel twin, the Coolpix P1), and it has a lot to offer. Most importantly, beyond the snazzy WiFi capability, first and foremost it's a very capable camera. Nikon's Coolpix line of consumer digital cameras have always been well-received, appreciated for their image quality and ease of use, and the Nikon P2 continues that trend, combining an 5.1-megapixel CCD with a very capable wireless image transfer mode. The Coolpix P2 has a rich feature set, easy enough for any beginner to use in its full-auto "green zone" mode, but with a surprising amount of control available for more sophisticated users through it's myriad menu options.'

PCWorld has posted a review of the Nikon Coolpix P2 digital camera and were not really impressed with it on the whole. They write - 'But while the wireless image transfer is a nice feature to have, I found that the quality of the P2's images was not so appealing. They weren't particularly bad; they just weren't that good when examined alongside the images of other similarly priced cameras. The colors were acceptable (if a little dark) and the images were reasonably sharp. As the P2 is a point-and-shoot camera, its lack of a full manual mode is not surprising. You do get some control, though, via an aperture priority mode (no shutter priority) and both white balance and exposure bracketing.'

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Sep 1: Nikon Coolpix P1

The Nikon Coolpix P1 is a WI-FI enabled digital camera with the capability to transmit images via 802.11b and 802.11g-compatible wireless networks. It has an 8 megapixel sensor and 3.5x Optical Zoom lens. The Coolpix P1 also features 32 megabytes of internal memory and 2.5inch LCD.

Expect to see the Nikon Coolpix P1 in shops later this month for a recommended retail price of $549.95 (USD).

Get the Latest Price on the "Nikon Coolpix P1

Nikon Coolpix P1 Reviews

Imaging Resource reviews the Nikon Coolpix P1 Digital Camera and writes - 'Will WiFi-connected cameras be the next big wave in the digital camera market? Perhaps... and perhaps not. Regardless of whether they'll ever achieve dominance though, it's clear that we're going to see more of them cropping up over the next year or two. The Nikon Coolpix P1 is that company's first effort at a consumer-level WiFi camera, and it has a lot to offer. Most importantly, beyond the snazzy WiFi capability, first and foremost it's a very capable camera. Nikon's Coolpix line of consumer digital cameras have always been well-received, appreciated for their image quality and ease of use, and the Nikon P1 continues that trend, upgrading the design with an 8.0-megapixel CCD and a very capable wireless image transfer mode. The Coolpix P1 has a rich feature set, easy enough for any beginner to use in its full-auto "green zone" mode, but with a surprising amount of control available for more sophisticated users through it's myriad menu options. For novices willing to delve just slightly deeper than "just pushing the button," its extensive Scene modes greatly extend the camera's capabilities, making it easy to bring back good-looking shots of what might otherwise be difficult subjects.'

PC Magazine reviews the Nikon Coolpix P1 and writes - 'The 8MP Nikon Coolpix P1 and P2 can claim the title of the first wireless (802.11b/g) point-and-shoot digital cameras in the consumer marketplace. But the Coolpix P1, which we tested, can't claim the title of the easiest wireless point-and-shoot to use—that honor goes to the Kodak EasyShare-One. In fact, we found the Coolpix P1's wireless features somewhat frustrating. And if you're spending nearly $550 (or almost $350 for the P2), we think you deserve a smoother wireless experience.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Nikon Coolpix P1 digital camera and writes - 'The Coolpix P1 and P2 offer a high-quality 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor Glass lens with a focal range equivalent to that of a 36-126mm lens in 35mm format and feature a large, bright 2.5-inch LCD for easy viewing in all conditions.. For greater control and creativity, both models feature Aperture-Priority Auto mode with 10-step manual control in 1/3EV increments and 11 of the camera’s 16 Scene Modes are Advanced Scene modes for even greater creative control of the end result. The cameras are compact and lightweight, measuring just 3.6 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches and weighing only six ounces.'

Lets Go Digital Reviews the Nikon Coolpix P1 Digital Camera where they recommend - 'The Nikon Coolpix P1 is the start of another whole new period: the time of transferring pictures through networks. For now it may just be a toy for the so-called 'early adapters' but soon this will be the most common thing to do in the world. Those who buy the Nikon Coolpix P1 now are prepared for the future and are able to make photos of excellent quality in the meantime. This makes the Nikon Coolpix P1 a truly recommendable digital camera.'

Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Nikon Coolpix P1 and writes - 'Even aside from this clever innovation, the P1 is a very nice camera in many other ways too. Available at a high street price of a slightly steep £329, you can find it online as low as £243, although the usual caveats about grey imports apply to some retailers.... Even without wireless technology, the CoolPix P1 is a superb high-end compact camera, with attractive and user-friendly design, rock solid build quality, some dazzling technology and excellent picture quality. It’s a little pricy compared to some of its competition, but it’s got the quality to back it up.'

Nikon Coolpix P1 and P2 News Release

NIKON ANNOUNCES WORLD’S FIRST BUILT-IN, WI-FI -ENABLED COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERAS

Two New Coolpix Models Combine the Performance of Wi-Fi Capability with Nikon’s Exclusive Imaging Technology

Nikon is redefining the digital camera shooting experience with the announcement of two new revolutionary Wi-Fi enabled models. The Coolpix P1 and P2 are the world’s first built-in Wi-Fi-enabled digital cameras to hit the marketplace. These groundbreaking cameras allow consumers to immediately transmit images wirelessly directly to a computer or to any PictBridge-enabled printer equipped with the optional Nikon Wireless Printer Adapter (PD-10), for wireless printing.

“The new Coolpix P1 and P2 literally pull the plug on digital imaging while highlighting Nikon’s commitment to providing consumers with the latest in digital imaging technology” says Bill Giordano, General Manager of Marketing for Nikon, Inc. “These models give consumers the freedom, with the push of a button, to immediately share and print their images like never before.”

The Coolpix eight-megapixel P1 and the five-megapixel P2 are the world’s first digital cameras with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities to transmit images via 802.11b and 802.11g-compatible wireless networks and adapters to a computer or most PictBridge-enabled printers equipped with the new Nikon Wireless Printer Adapter (PD-10). Eliminating the need for extra wires or cables, the new models allow consumers to send images from the camera direct to a selected computer or printer with the touch of a button. With a range of up to 100 feet*, the P1 and P2 enable users to transfer images on-the-go from almost anywhere in a home, office—even from the backyard. Offering unprecedented freedom and convenience, users can wirelessly transfer and view images in a variety of ways, including:

* Shoot and Transfer Mode: As images are taken, they are transferred immediately to the computer. With Nikon’s Picture Project software, slide shows can be automatically built with the transferred images added as they are being shot.
* Easy Transfer Mode: Images can be transferred by a specific date, individually as marked or manually transferred to a computer after they are taken. In this mode only new images will be transferred to eliminate duplication.
* Wireless Print: Using the optional Wireless Printer Adapter (PD-10), users can wirelessly print directly from the camera (without a computer) or when using the included PictureProject 1.6 software, images can be sent to the computer and automatically printed.

Nikon Coolpix P1 and P2 cameras and PictureProject software work together seamlessly to make wireless photo transfer as easy as 1-2-3. For easy set-up and control, the P1 and P2 come with a complimentary copy of Nikon PictureProject 1.6 and the new easy-to-use Wireless Camera Setup Utility, which uses a simple seven-step Wizard that will configure the cameras for wireless operation. The latest version of PictureProject offers convenient options allowing users, for example, to import wireless images automatically into a slideshow as well as tools to edit, organize, design and share images. The software is designed to extend the enjoyment of taking pictures: transferring images from camera to computer, organizing images so they are easy to find, editing them to add an extra sparkle, designing ways to show off the pictures and sharing them with friends and family.

At the heart of the new models is Nikon’s innovative and exclusive suite of in-camera technology that makes it easy to capture great pictures before they leave the camera. To ensure sharp images, the Face-Priority AF function makes certain that faces remain in focus when shooting portraits by automatically sensing the presence of a human face within the frame and setting accurate focus accordingly. The In-Camera Red-Eye Fix technology automatically detects and corrects red eyes in an image while the D-Lighting function automatically compensates for insufficient flash or excessive backlighting. To ensure a crisp, clear image before leaving the scene, Blur Warning will alert the user that a shot has been compromised.

True to the line of Nikon cameras, the Coolpix P1 and P2 offer a high-quality 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor Glass lens with a focal range equivalent to that of a 36-126mm lens in 35mm format. For greater control and creativity, both models feature Aperture-Priority Auto mode with 10-step manual control in 1/3EV increments and 11 of the camera’s 16 Scene Modes are Advanced Scene modes for even greater creative control of the end result.

The Coolpix P1 and P2 can record high-quality movies at a rate of up to 30 fps with a choice of seven movie modes with sound recording in six of those modes. A Time-Lapse function enables the user to capture events occurring over an extended period of time.

The newly designed models are compact and lightweight, measuring just 3.6 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches and weighing six ounces* and offer an incredible, bright 2.5-inch LCD for easy viewing in all conditions.

The Coolpix P1 and P2 will be available in September 2005 with a MSRP of $549.95 and $399.95, respectively. The Wireless Print Adaptor (PD-10) will be available in October 2005 with an MSRP of $49.95.

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Sep 1: Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S40 Review - CNET

CNET reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S40 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S40 is the entry-level model in Sony's refresh of its S line of point-and-shoot cameras. More elongated and boxlike than the more expensive DSC-S60 and DSC-S90, the DSC-S40 meets its price point by reducing the LCD screen to 1.5 inches. Otherwise, it has an impressive roster of features and capabilities, including a 4.1-megapixel sensor, a Carl Zeiss 3X zoom lens, two burst modes, 640x480 video capture at 30fps, strong battery life, and fast response times.'

Read more about the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-S40

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Sep 1: Pentax Optio WPi

The Petax Optio WPi is a 6 megapixel waterproof digital camera that features a 2.0 inch LCD and a 3x Optical Zoom (equivalent to 38-114mm in film cameras). The waterproofind allows shooting in water up to a depth of 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes at a time.

The Pentax Optio WPi also features continuous AF and tracking AF, macro mode of up to 1cm and a recovery mode that lets you restore deleted images and audio files.

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Pentax Optio WPi Reviews

Pocket Lint reviews the Pentax Optio WPi digital camera and writes - 'It�s not all perfect. The camera's sports mode is rather disappointing which meant that those looking to take big air pictures on the slopes may be disappointed. We would have thought given the nature of where you may want to take this picture that it would have been a higher priority for Pentax, but clearly not.... Overall a very good camera that will appeal to the adventure-seeker. If you find yourself in situations that warrant the sudden drowning in water or large amounts of dust the OptioWPi is just the thing for you.'

Lets Go Digital reviews the Pentax Optio WPi and writes - 'Personally I enjoyed working with the Pentax Optio WPi. The waterproof housing makes photographing in and on the water a real pleasure. In practice, handling the WPi camera is easy and delivers fine image quality. The resolution suffices to print some enlargements whenever you feel like it that can be edited in the camera prior to printing. The Pentax Optio will appeal to the average user and its water- and dustproof features make the camera interesting for use during holidays or weekend trips in and around the water. Photographing underwater is fun; a lot can be discovered and thanks to digital photography infinite images can be taken during snorkelling. All in all the Pentax Optio WPi is an attractive digital camera, recommendable for everybody who loves effortless shooting!'

Steves Digicams reviews the Pentax Optio WPi and writes - 'This is a versatile point-n-shoot model that can be used by any member of your family, whether you're at the beach, by the pool, or even in the water. Its fully automatic "Green" mode is perfect for those beginners who like simple operation, while the Program AE and various scene modes let users explore their creative side.... Pentax has yet again created a "cool" digicam that can capture great photos whether you're at home, in the office, or taking a dip in the pool. With 6-megapixels, you have plenty of resolution to work with and will have no problem making beautiful 8x10-inch or larger prints. Priced at around $299, it offers an excellent value for such a versatile little camera.'

Digital Camera Review has posted a review on the Pentax Optio WPi Digital Camera and writes - 'The Pentax Optio WPi is a great choice if you're looking for a waterproof camera (and don't need to go to great depths). The waterproof, dustproof body has a rugged feel, but a stylish look. The camera also takes good, 6 megapixel images in a variety of conditions. I experienced good exposures in tough lighting situations, and good, if a bit saturated, colors. Noise levels were acceptable and the flash was enough to illuminate dark, normal-sized rooms.'

Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Pentax Optio WPi and writes - 'If you have a camera-killing lifestyle but enjoy taking pictures, then the WPi is the ideal solution. It is well made, looks superb, handles well, has reasonably good image quality and can survive and take pictures in conditions that would destroy any other camera. There�s nothing else on the market like it.'

Pentax Optio WPi News Release

The PENTAX OptioWPi � a compact digital camera with waterproof performance for underwater shooting, 6.0 effective megapixels, a 3X optical zoom lens and a large LCD monitor � all in a slim, flat, easy-to-carry body.

Pentax Optio WPi

PENTAX Corporation is pleased to introduce the new OptioWPi. Developed in line with the concept of �sportiness, elegance and leisure� and based on the OptioWP (launched in Spring 2005), the OptioWPi offers the same waterproof performance that enables underwater shooting without the need for a waterproof case or similar equipment, and boasts a sophisticated design that makes it well-suited to use on virtually any occasion.

What�s more, the OptioWPi offers such capability without a compromise in imaging performance � providing the convenience and power of a large 2.0-inch LCD monitor and 6.0 effective megapixels, and overall operational ease.

For marine sports, scuba diving, skiing and social occasions too, the OptioWPi has the looks and the capability to go with you virtually anywhere.

Pentax Optio WPi Major features

1. High waterproof performance, without the need for a case
The OptioWPi complies with JIS class 8 waterproof performance, enabling it to withstand up to 30 minutes of continuous operation at an underwater depth of 1.5 meters. Furthermore, the OptioWPi has also been proven to conform to Class 5 dustproof performance of category 2 (machines produced to prevent internal changes in atmospheric pressure). Such capabilities make it ideal for use when skiing, taking part in marine sports, going fishing or enjoying other outdoor events. Waterproof performance of this kind also means users can simply rinse the camera off any time it becomes dirty.

2. Sophisticated body design
1) With a slim, flat body boasting a depth of a mere 2.2cm, the OptioWPi can be
easily slipped in and out of a pocket, bag or case.
2) An ergonomic contoured grip design provides users with a more confident, more
comfortable shooting experience.
3) The OptioWPi makes extensive use of high-quality aluminum alloy for the front
panel with a hairline finish that gives it a pleasant texture of high quality.
4) The rounded overall form of the OptioWPi is accentuated by a water ring design
element, a four-way control key and other details that give the camera a look that
is both sophisticated and user-friendly.

3. A 3X optical zoom lens and 6.0 effective megapixels
The OptioWPi delivers pleasing optical performance with a lens comprising 9 groups of 11 elements. It also includes three aspherical lens elements that compensate for aberration to make for even sharper results, and makes use of a refraction lens system that enables it to deliver 6.3-18.9mm 3X optical zoom performance and cover angles of view equivalent to those of a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format without ever extending from the camera body. Together these features allow photographers to make the very most of the OptioWPi's ample 6.0 effective megapixels.

4. 2.0-inch, 115,000-pixel LCD monitor
Despite its slim, flat body dimensions, the OptioWPi features a large, 2.0-inch LCD monitor with 115,000 pixels for speedy and precise confirmation of recorded images. This low-reflection monitor also features a backlighting mechanism that effectively maximizes visibility, even when used outside on sunny days, and additionally offers a �Power saving mode� that automatically reduces backlighting intensity to make batteries last longer.

5. Mode palette makes operation even easier
The Mode palette has been popular with consumers ever since its introduction on other Optio models, displaying multiple shooting or playback options simultaneously. For the shooting Mode palette, the user can display 15 mode icons at once out of a total of 22, with the remaining 7 icons replacing the selected 15 on the user's command. What's more, just a press of the Green button while the Mode palette is on is all it takes to display easy-to-understand explanations and photos for the selected item � reducing the need to consult the user manual for simpler operation.

6. Continuous AF and tracking AF
Continuous AF* or tracking AF** are activated automatically upon selection of Sport, Pet or Kids modes � allowing the camera to track a moving subject within the frame and maintain accurate focus accordingly.

* For focus on stationary subjects, the shutter release button is depressed halfway to drive the lens to focus lock. Continuous AF, on the other hand, allows the lens to be driven constantly to ensure swift, precise focus as soon as the shutter release button is depressed halfway.
** Tracking AF continually detects both horizontal and vertical movement of the main subject to ensure sharp focus at the desired moment. Confirmation of the focus area can be done on the focus frame on the LCD monitor.

7. High-sensitivity shooting
The OptioWPi supports mixed-pixel, high-sensitivity* shooting, which offers the choice to shoot at a Standard Output Sensitivity of 800. This results in crisp and clear shots with minimal noise, hand shake and other blurring. When high-sensitivity shooting is selected, recording size is fixed at 1280 X 960 pixels.

*Available when using Candlelight mode and Report mode only (automatic or manual activation).

8. Green mode gives you swift, automated shooting
Just one push of the Green button activates Green mode, which takes automatic control of all settings with the exception of zoom. Not only is this function handy when asking someone else to take your picture or when you've simply lost track of camera settings, but the Green button can also be used as a shortcut � allowing the user to assign up to four* frequently used functions to if for swift access.

*Functions that can be assigned to the Green button: Green mode, recording size, image quality, white balance, AF area, focus limit, sensitivity, exposure compensation, sharpness, saturation, contrast, and off.

9. Recovery function lets you retrieve erased images
With the OptioWPi, there's no need to panic if you accidentally erase an image or audio data. That's because it comes equipped with a handy recovery function that remains active until the erased data has been overwritten or the power is switched off.

10. Picture Voice* function attaches sound data to stills
Up to 20 seconds of audio data can be recorded while a still image is being shot � extending from 10 seconds before to 10 seconds after the moment of shutter release. Such capability allows users to capture special moments in a more memorable manner.

*How it works: Upon selecting Picture Voice mode, the OptioWPi starts accumulating audio data, then automatically stops recording 10 seconds after shutter release. The accumulated audio data (10 seconds before the shot, plus 10 seconds after) is then stored as an attachment to the recorded image.

11. A range of options for framing
Not only does the OptioWPi enable users to put images together with photo frames within the camera itself, but it also offers a choice of shooting options to produce results best suited to a pre-selected frame. Frames can also be added at the time of printing. Three different frames are installed by default within the camera, which can be easily replaced by up to three of many downloadable frames available on the PENTAX website.

12. Movie editing in-camera
With the movie editing function, users can actually edit recorded movies in-camera. Selected clips can be saved as new movie files, users can select single frames for saving as individual still images, and separate movies can also be combined as one file.

* The size of a storable still image depends on the recorded size of a movie.

13 Other features
1) Ready to shoot just 0.6 seconds after the power is turned on
2) Real-time display of �washed out� and �blacked out� areas
3) Soft flash function avoids overexposure when shooting with flash in close
proximity
4) Up to 4X digital zooming
5) Macro mode enables shooting as close as 1cm from the subject when lens is in
wide setting
6) Three color modes (full-color, B&W, sepia) for versatile movie recording
7) �Clock Mode� function displays the time even when the camera is off
8) SD memory card compatible; approx. 10.5MB built-in memory
9) Standard image viewer, ACDSee for PENTAX software
10) FotoNation�s red-eye compensation function for flash shots
11) DPOF, Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III compatibility

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Sep 1: Pentax Optio S6

The Pentax Optio S6 is a 6.0 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom lens, 2.5 inch LCD (232,000 pixels) and slim line design (just 19mm thin). It's a PictBridge compatible camera with high speed continuous shooting at 1.6 frames per second.

Compare prices on the Pentax Optio S6 and Get the latest price on thePentax Optio S6 at Amazon.

Penax Optio S6 Press Release

Incorporating a newly developed, compact 3X optical zoom lens, the PENTAX OptioS6 packs 6.0 effective megapixels and a large 2.5-inch LCD into exceptionally slim dimensions.

Pentax Optio S6

Through taking an entirely new approach to lens design, PENTAX presents the OptioS6 with an impressively slim body depth of a mere 19mm. Yet despite being exceptionally slim, the OptioS6 also features a powerful 3X optical zoom lens and delivers the shooting performance of 6.0 effective megapixels.

Penta Optio S6 Major features

1. A new design for new, slimmer dimensions
A fresh approach to the design of the lens unit including the PENTAX Sliding Lens System* has enabled the OptioS6 to be created with exceptionally compact dimensions. In fact, through the use of glass-molded aspherical lenses which are concave on both sides, a thinner CCD, a fully flat backside of the lens unit and other advances, the entire lens unit has a depth that is a full 2mm thinner than our conventional unit. High-level engineering expertise has also been applied to influencing the dimensions of the body, with high-density mounting and the strategic use of internal space realizing a body depth of only 19mm.

*PENTAX�s proprietary lens system which offsets the central lens groups from the optical lens axis and houses the lens in two steps in the lens cylinder for minimized overall body depth.

2. Large, easy-to-view LCD monitor
Despite its new slim body design, the OptioS6 incorporates a large, 2.5-inch LCD monitor that offers the clarity of 232,000 total pixels. And because it is a Beau-Reflective monitor (low-reflection type) with a built-in backlighting mechanism, it can be viewed easily and clearly even outdoors in sunny weather. As a result, the OptioS6 makes it easy to compose shots, playback recorded images for confirmation and select functions through smooth menu navigation.

3. High image quality
Employing a 1/2.5-inch primary color CCD, the OptioS6 delivers outstanding 6.0 effective megapixel performance. It also boasts an smc PENTAX lens that makes use of PENTAX original coating to achieve minimized ghosting and flare, a high-performance ASIC* that delivers refined image processing, and new improved noise reduction with the power to deliver true-to-life color gradation and rich texture, even at high sensitivities.
*Application Specific Integrated Circuit.

4. Mode Palette displays all icons at once
The Mode palette enables the display of multiple mode icons for shooting and playback on the LCD monitor simultaneously � a factor that has earned it praise on other Optio models for the level of operational ease this entails.

On the OptioS6, it allows the user to select from the diverse range of 15 shooting mode icons and 14 playback icons in an instant. And because the Palette mode display is translucent, the user can make his or her selection while still being able to view the image on the screen.

5. Stylish design that exudes a sense of quality
Featuring a combination of fine spindle treatment, a unique blast process effect, and a metal band at its upper end, the aluminum alloy exterior of the OptioS6 exudes a sense of high quality while also feeling attractive to the touch. Plated parts have been added for the grip and the area surrounding the lens � adding an appealing luster which accentuates the camera�s overall elegance. And the connectors and battery compartment have all been grouped together on one side to minimize protrusions and maintain the clean, attractive lines. Stylish enough to be worn as an accessory, yet delivering the power to take impressive images, the OptioS6 is equally ideal for travel, leisure, snapshots and business use.

6. Movie anti-shake function for high-quality action
Offering movie shooting with 640x480 recording pixels at a swift rate of 30fps (frames per second), the OptioS6 delivers smooth movies with camcorder quality. The OptioS6 also offers the advantage of DivX MPEG-4* image compression that makes it possible to shoot movies of a longer duration, while a useful movie anti-shake** function makes results noticeably more stable.

* Movie playback is not supported by Macintosh.
** Selection of the movie anti-shake function results in an angle of view narrower than that experienced in normal shooting.

7. Tracking AF
Not all subjects are willing to stand still and say �Cheese!� Fortunately, the OptioS6 features tracking AF* which can track a moving subject around the frame, while maintaining precise focus for pin-sharp results. Adding further convenience, this mode is automatically activated upon selection of Sport and Pet modes.

* Tracking AF continually detects both horizontal and vertical movement of the main subject to ensure sharp focus at the desired moment. Confirmation of the focus area can be done on the focus frame on the LCD monitor.

8. Other features
1) High-speed continuous shooting at up to 1.6 frames per second
2) Approx. 23MB built-in memory; SD memory card compatible
3) Candlelight mode allows high-sensitivity shooting at a Standard Output Sensitivity of 800.
4) Built-in AF spotbeam (on/off switching possible)
5) Frame composite function allows frames to be added at time of shooting
6) Pan focus function for easy snapshots
7) Convenient image rotation function for easy confirmation of vertical shots
8) Standard image viewer, ACDSee for PENTAX software
9) FotoNation�s red-eye compensation function for flash shots
10) UBS2.0 (HI-SPEED) compatible
11) DPOF function, Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III compatible
12) PictBridge compatible

Pentax Optio S6 Reviews

CNET has posted a review of the Pentax Optio S6 which they give a rating of 6.8 (Good). They describe the performance of the Optio S6 as - 'The aluminum-alloy, 6-megapixel Pentax Optio S6--which the company bills as small enough to fit inside a tin of Altoids (it will also fit inside a pack of cigarettes, if that's your weakness)--is a well-designed digital camera that will please casual shooters with its ease of use and build quality. Though some photo-quality shortcomings and sluggish shooting mar its overall value, Pentax's slimmest offering is a good choice for anyone looking for a pocketable camera that produces decent snapshots and looks great while doing it.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Pentax Optio S6 digital camera and writes - 'Like some of its predecessors, the Pentax Optio S6 offers some appealing features like its extremely pocketable size, all-metal construction and 6-megapixel sensor. It's not quite the performer we had hoped it wold be and like I stated above, image quality is average. While it comes with approx. 23MB of internal memory, there is no SD memory card included. And with the average file size of its 6-megapixel images being around 2.2MB, we strongly recommend you add at least a 256MB SD card to your purchase; you'll thanks us in the long run. At about $350, the S6 doesn't offer that good of a value, and we would recommend you look at some similar models like Sony's Cyber-shot P200, Casio's Exilim EX-Z750 or Canon's PowerShot SD550 just to name a few which can be found for about the same price. All of these will offer you better image quality and performance, but still allow you to tuck it away in almost any size pocket or purse.'

DigiCamReview has posted a review of the Pentax Optio S6 and writes - 'The Pentax Optio S6 is an ultra compact digital camera featuring 6 megapixels, a 3x optical zoom lens, and a high resolution 2.5� screen. The easy to use camera offers several useful scene modes and features such as custom white balance, manual focusing, panoramic assist. The cameras MPEG4 / DIVX video mode is good as it allows you to fit longer videos on your memory card, however battery life is an Achilles heel in this regard as you are limited to a maximum recording time of 50 minutes, and then the battery goes flat! Image quality was good outdoors, but poor indoors due to focusing problems and the flash overexposing the subject. Overall, this camera is a mixed bag - if style, size and features are a priority then have a look at this camera, however I believe there are better ultra compact digital cameras out there.'

Trusted Reviews has reviewed the Pentax Optio S6 and writes - 'If you�re looking for an ultra-compact camera that can deliver good quality pictures with a minimum of fuss, the Optio S6 should certainly be near the top of your list. It is well made, attractively designed, and is one of the smallest and lightest cameras on the market. It has enough options to cope with virtually any shooting conditions, and its excellent low light focusing and flash performance are a big bonus. Considering its very competitive price and the S6 is hard to beat.'

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